COVER STORY

5 Adorable Treats in Universal Studios Japan

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One of the most popular attractions in Osaka is Universal Studios Japan, a theme park that both kids and kids-at-heart are sure to enjoy. With areas that transport you to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World, Jurassic Park, and Minion Park, Universal Studios Japan has so many things to ride, to see, and to eat.

As someone who avoids roller coasters and extreme rides, my favorite part of any amusement park visit is sampling the exclusive, themed food. And since this is Japan, you can expect plenty of adorable, "kawaii" creations inspired by beloved characters.

If you’ve ever wanted to take a sip of something Harry Potter would drink or snack on a burger shaped like a Minion’s face, here are five snacks inside Universal Studios Japan for you to try:

1. Mario & Luigi Pancake Sandwiches

Designed to look like Mario & Luigi’s signature caps, these pancake sandwiches are among the best-tasting treats you can find in the park. There are two variants: first is the Mario’s Cap Strawberry Shortcake – fluffy pancakes filled with whipped cream, white chocolate, sweet custard, and strawberry jam, topped with fresh strawberries. The other is Luigi’s Cap Grape No-Bake Cheesecake—A tangy cheesecake filling with fresh grapes nestled between soft pancakes.

With its combo of freshly-baked soft pancakes, juicy fresh fruits, a generous amount of whipped cream, and mouthwatering fillings, these sandwiches make for a messy but delicious bite. Pro-tip: These dessert sandwiches are not found inside Super Nintendo World, but you can find them in the Hollywood Area so don’t miss it!

2. Minion Minced Cutlet Burger

A few steps away from the Minion Park is Happiness Café where you can have a selection of Minion-themed foods, from Minion-shaped rice and fried chicken to yellow banana-flavored desserts. The top pick from here though is the Minion Minced Cutlet Burger.

Served with fries, onion rings, and a salad, this cute burger is colored and shaped like a Minion’s trademark face—smile and all. It’s almost too adorable to bite into, but once you do, you’re greeted with a crispy cutlet burger that is flavorful, juicy, guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.

3. Super Mushroom Pizza Bowl

On the ground level of Super Nintendo World is the giant mushroom-shaped restaurant Kinopio’s Café. Here you can dine on many different dishes based off of Mario characters, including Kinopio, also known as Toad. There’s the Mario’s Bacon Cheeseburger (which comes with a Mario cap) and Yoshi’s Spinach Carbonara (which comes with an egg that looks like Yoshi’s) but the top item on the menu is the Super Mushroom Pizza Bowl.

Styled like a Mushroom Kingdom resident, the dish consists of a perfectly baked bread dome sitting on a character-themed bowl with a rich and cheesy pizza dip hidden underneath. Crack into the bread, scoop up the warm, gooey filling, and enjoy a fun and flavorful dish that’s perfect for sharing

4. Nezuko’s Strawberry & Matcha Whipped Topping Donut

Scattered throughout the park are various snack stalls offering a range of quick treats like flavored popcorn, churros, and baked goods. One standout is the Nezuko-inspired donut, a nod to the Demon Slayer anime. This pink strawberry-flavored donut is filled with creamy matcha-flavored filling, striking a perfect balance of sweet and earthy flavors. The topping of strawberry icing and tiny hard candies adds a delightful crunch to this fluffy dessert.

5. Butterbeer

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter section of the park is an impressive sight all on its own, with the Hogwarts Castle and Black Lake in the back after you walk through the stores of Hogsmeade. You can find a number of snacks and food taken straight out of the books and films, but what you can’t pass up is a glass of the famous butterbeer.

It’s a simple drink of cream soda, vanilla and butterscotch flavoring, and some whipped cream but if you’ve got a sweet tooth, it is a magical drink that can be served hot (best for winter months) or cold (extremely refreshing during the summer). Besides, how can you go to the Harry Potter world and not have it? It’s definitely a must, even if you don’t like the taste!

Universal Studios Japan offers far more than just thrilling rides—it’s also a paradise for food lovers. This is just a small taste of the park’s many themed treats. For example, in the newly opened Donkey Kong Country area, you can grab a banana chocolate sundae served in a collectible Donkey Kong barrel! So while you’re exploring the magic of USJ, don’t forget to indulge in exclusive eats you won’t find anywhere else.