After nearly nine years in the capital, I’m firmly a Londoner. The city has its highs – plenty, actually – but the lows, like endless delays and relentless winters, have turned me into a bit of a Grinch. So, when the chance arose to meet the big green guy himself at Universal Orlando Resort in Florida, I thought: let’s see if it’s like looking in a mirror.
I hadn’t been to the theme park since I was a kid – over 20 years ago – so I was expecting to see some minor changes. I couldn’t have been more wrong. The resort has expanded into an adult playground oasis, full of mega rides, incredible bars and enough delicious treats to make your tastebuds sing.
Kickstarting my intrepid adventure to meet the Grinch, it only felt right to begin with The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast. Immersed in the Circus McGurkus Cafe Stoo-pendous (obviously), you can enjoy a delicious brunch item with a drink while the characters of Whoville wander around for a natter and some selfies.
I tucked into some Martha May’s Chicken and Waffles – hand-breaded southern chicken thighs on top of two crispy Belgian waffles, topped off with a fried egg, hot honey and parsley. I then washed it down with the Grinch’s very own Sour Apple drink – a sour apple ICEE (a frozen fizzy drink) with whipped sweet cream topping and red sugar crystals.
As part of this special event, you also get the chance to meet the big green man himself. You can expect queues of up to four hours to shake hands with the Grinch, so the brunch is a great way to bypass that and spend your time seeing what else this great park has to offer.
