Purchase a Universal Meal Deal ticket either online, at the main gate, or at any participating restaurant inside the park. Whether you are just an adult couple or a small family, only purchase one adult ticket. Prices are reasonable for this, but consider if you will be attending just one park or both. The two-park deal is only a few dollars more and gives you greater flexibility.
Go to any participating Universal Meal Deal restaurant of your choice and the ticket will be exchanged for a plastic, one-time locking bracelet for your wrist. Decide what you want from the menu and get in line to order.
Note: There are only three restaurants at Universal Studios and another three at Islands of Adventure from which to choose from. There is variety, but it is only a handful compared to all the eating establishments that aren't a part of the program.
The food is not exactly four-star, but you get one entree' and one dessert every time through the line-and you can take unlimited trips through to get enough for everyone in your party. Portion size isn't bad either, so everyone should be able to be satisfied within one trip each, but if not, just go back again.
Note: Beverages are not included in the meal plan and cost additional. There is a Universal Meal Deal Souvenir refillable drink cup that is quite large that sells for an additional $9.00 and can be refilled as much as you want if you must have soda. I would instead recommend purchasing a $2.00 bottle of water just after entering the Universal Studios park and slipping it in to your bag for use all day. There are convenient water fountains throughout the park for you to refill as needed.
Once you are finished with your lunch/dinner, head back outside to the park and return to your fun day of rides and excitement. And remember, if hunger rears its ugly head again, just repeat it all over again at the next restaurant.
