Universal Studios Hollywood has launched a new dining pass priced at $59, offering guests two meals along with four side items during a single park visit. This new offering prompts the question: Does this meal deal truly represent good value for park attendees?

Understanding the New $59 Dining Pass Details

The pass grants access to two entrees plus four sides, snacks, desserts, or drinks across various park restaurants. It can be purchased either online or directly at the theme park.

Once the pass is used for the first meal, it becomes active and is strictly valid for that one day only. Guests can link this digital pass to their account via the Universal Studios Hollywood mobile application. Eligible menu items will be clearly marked with the official Universal dining pass logo.

Key Restrictions to Note

It is important to note several exclusions apply to the dining pass. Alcoholic beverages are not covered under the plan. Furthermore, items from Starbucks or Coca-Cola Freestyle machines are ineligible.

Any single menu item priced at $25 or more cannot be purchased using the dining pass. This limits access to some of the park's premium or family-sized offerings.

Value Calculation: When the Pass Makes Financial Sense

For most visitors, the answer leans toward yes, provided they intend to consume both lunch and dinner within the park. This aligns with Universal's goal of encouraging longer stays and increased spending.

Estimates suggest that purchasing individual entrees, sides, and drinks often exceeds $30 per meal at locations like Toadstool Cafe, Cocina Mexicana, and Hollywood & Dine. Main courses generally range from $10 to $23.

Sides, snacks, and desserts typically cost between $5 and $13, as do standard drinks. Calculating the low end for one meal (entree, side, drink) results in approximately $20, while the high end approaches $49.

Comparing Costs: Low vs. High Estimates

If a guest purchases the most expensive eligible items for both lunch and dinner, the total cost could range from $40 to $98. Therefore, opting for the $59 dining plan usually results in savings.

The savings become more significant when choosing higher-priced options. For instance, selecting the $23 Spare Ribs Platter at Three Broomsticks offers better value than choosing the $10 Nice Slice O’ Cheese Pizza at Luigi’s Pizza.

Exclusions and Final Recommendation

The deal would be an undeniable bargain if alcoholic drinks were included, but they are excluded. Only a few items exceed the $25 threshold, such as the $26 Bowser’s Fireball Challenge and $26 Chef Toad Short Rib Special at Toadstool Cafe.

Other excluded high-ticket items are the $60 Family-Size Pizzas at Luigi’s Pizza and the $75 Great Feast at Three Broomsticks.

Ultimately, the decision rests on daily dining plans. If you are certain you will eat two substantial meals at Universal on that day, the $59 pass is recommended. Otherwise, paying for meals individually is likely the more economical choice.