REVIEW: New Chai Tea Coquito, Barbary Coast Iced Tea, and Some Savory Selections at Confisco Grille in Universal’s Islands of Adventure

Iain

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REVIEW: New Chai Tea Coquito, Barbary Coast Iced Tea, and Some Savory Selections at Confisco Grille in Universal’s Islands of Adventure

Two new holiday drinks have arrived at Confisco Grille at Universal’s Islands of Adventure. A coquito and an iced tea have been added as holiday beverages. We also tried the French onion soup, spinach and artichoke dip, and chicken quesadilla.

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The waiting area was empty when we arrived.

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A traditional Christmas garland hands from a stair railing.

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The vivid decor pops with color, illuminated by a stained glass lamp.

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Plexiglass has been installed between the booths. Different parties are seated back-to-back. Surprisingly, the Annual Passholder lounge was closed due to low guest traffic.

Chai Tea Coquito – $14

Myers Dark rum, Coquito mix, ground nutmeg

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Guests have been asking if Universal has a coquito. The answer is now “Yes!”

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The drink had a good consistency, but was a bit heavily spiced, making this a drink that is best enjoyed slowly. It is not too sweet, with notes of coconut milk. The chai spice is noticeable, too, which makes this coquito more complex than most.

Barbary Coast Iced Tea – $14

Old Forester bourbon, barbary spice syrup, iced mint tea, fresh mint

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The Barbary Coast iced tea is one of few drinks at Confisco Grille that is not pre-mixed. The taste of alcohol was very strong. The drink also has clove sticks.

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“Cheers!” Both drinks are holiday exclusives; they will be available for a limited time.

Classic French Onion Soup – $8

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New to the menu was a French onion soup, previously only found on select Annual Passholder exclusive menus.

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The French onion soup was barely broiled. The cheese was not thoroughly melted.

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The soup was fine, but certainly not the best French onion soup we have ever tasted. Unless it’s particularly cold out that day, we wouldn’t go out of our way to have this.

Chicken Quesadilla – $12

Grilled chicken, caramelized onions, cheddar-jack cheese in a chipotle tortilla, served with salsa, sour cream, housemade guacamole

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These are incredible! This appetizer is easily shareable, or otherwise makes for a filling entree for less than most quick-service burgers. It was loaded with lots of shredded chicken and onions. The included salsa, sour cream, and guacamole were very fresh.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip – $10

Wood-oven roasted artichokes and spinach, savory cheeses, grilled baguette

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The spinach and artichoke dip is on loan from Lombard’s Seafood Grille. It was bubbling and delicious, but not as good as getting it at Lombard’s.

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We enjoyed our meal at Confisco Grille. What are you eager to try on your next visit? Use the comments to share your plans.