The KidZone area of Universal Studios Florida technically houses three food areas for 2022 Mardi Gras. Last year, we got multiple food tents/booths in this area for the first time for Mardi Gras. Last year, the themes were directly about different countries. This year the country idea merges with the “Planet Mardi Gras” theme. At the first food tent (Volcano Planet) you encounter entering KidZone, you can find the Papas Bravas.
I fail to recall every having “Papas Bravas” before. I lacked any presuppositions about this menu item. Menu board describes them as crispy potatoes, salsa bravas, garlic aioli, and parsley. These cost $7.99. As of February 19th, Universal added to the menu sign that these meet standards for vegan dining. They come served in a nice plastic skillet plate type container. When you dine here, make sure to get a fork. Not sure why but I saw many people sit down to eat these without a fork.
So how did these potatoes taste? Overall, these menu items provide a positive experience. Having said that, the potatoes by themselves tasted adequate but nothing great. The potatoes are a vehicle to enjoy the adventure of the sauce. Some guests felt they were inconsistently cooked/prepared. My experience does not reflect that.
The salsa bravas stars in this creation. This sauce pairs well with everything else, bringing it together. Like so many Mardi Gras dishes this year, you need every ingredient in each bite to fully enjoy the chefs’ vision. Like the potatoes in this entrée, by themselves they are average. However, mixed in they taste worth your money.
The spice level of the sauce provided more “heat” than I expected. Remember, I had no expectations about this food item. If you anticipate some spice, then you will enjoy the flavor enhancing the rest of the plate. If not, you might be surprised by it. The sauce tastes somewhere between a typical salsa and a hearty marinara sauce. Also, garlic aioli adds to the flavor overall.
If I were compiling a top savory food item at Mardi Gras this year, the “Papas Bravas” would make that list. As always, eat like you mean it!
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