In an unexpected move, Universal Orlando has paused reservations for The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant in Epic Universe just days after opening up the booking window.
The decision was made without public explanation, sparking confusion among excited guests in the midst of Passholder Previews.
The Blue Dragon, located in Celestial Park, was one of the first restaurants to begin accepting reservations for the park’s official launch on May 22, 2025. Guests could book beginning May 23—but those reservations were abruptly pulled.
A potential cause? Overwhelming demand.
Universal hasn’t confirmed whether the reservation system glitched or if bookings simply exceeded expectations, but either way, the dining experience is now temporarily unavailable to reserve.
What’s Inside Epic Universe
While The Blue Dragon may be temporarily out of reach, Passholder Previews are still giving fans a look at the full slate of offerings coming to Epic Universe:
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Celestial Park: This visually stunning entry area features open-air gardens, interactive fountains, and dining experiences like The Blue Dragon and Atlantic (also listed, but not yet accepting reservations).
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SUPER NINTENDO WORLD: Step into the Mushroom Kingdom with interactive elements and thrilling attractions like Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge.
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Dark Universe: A chilling land themed around classic horror legends like Frankenstein and Dracula.
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Isle of Berk: A kid-friendly land based on How to Train Your Dragon, full of whimsical rides and family attractions.
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Wizarding World – Ministry of Magic: A new twist on the Harry Potter universe, exploring the magical government and European wizardry.
Each area boasts immersive theming, character encounters, and a mix of high-tech and storytelling-heavy attractions that promise to set Epic Universe apart from anything else in Orlando.
The Bigger Picture
The situation at The Blue Dragon highlights just how much anticipation is building ahead of Epic Universe’s grand opening. And while this reservation pause might be temporary, it’s clear that Universal is already experiencing real-time stress tests as more guests descend on the park.
If Universal can iron out the kinks now, it’ll be better prepared for the masses come late May. But this early turbulence is a reminder that even the most ambitious theme parks can get tripped up by their own popularity.
For now, those who want to dine with neon dragons will have to wait just a little longer.
