REVIEW: You Might Not Expect This Perk at Universal's NEW Hotel…But We LOVE IT

Epic Universe, Universal Orlando’s new theme park, might not be opening until May, but two hotels are opening early BEFORE that — Universal Stella Nova Resort and Universal Terra Luna Resort.

In fact, Universal Stella Nova Resort is open NOW, and we even had a chance to check it out early, but more importantly, we’re BACK and we’re checking out all the dining options at the hotel. That includes Nova Bar, where you’ll find us nursing a space-themed cocktail.

Background

The whole concept of Nova Bar is the same as the hotel: it has a space-like galaxy vibe. You’ll find it in the hotel lobby, so it offers a nice place to hang out and watch the universe go by.

Nova Bar is the lobby bar for this hotel

Atmosphere

Nova Bar has seating at the bar, as well as more comfortable couch-like seating. It feels more like a lounge, but it is an open space, so the rest of the hotel and its decor surrounds you.

Nova Bar

Drinks

You’ll be able to find classic cocktails, as well as beer, wine, and mocktails. However, the most interesting thing about this bar is the themed drinks, like The Super Nova and The Nebula.

The Super Nova is made with whiskey and cherry-infused Campari and served smoked over a large ice cube. It will set you back $16.

So, we had some… complicated thoughts on this drink. It was definitely a whiskey-first concoction, and that was definitely the dominant flavor. However, that was balanced out by the tart cherry flavor, which had a bit of a “cough medicine” like taste, and the bitterness of the Campari.

Super Nova

While all these flavors mixed together may seem like a lot, we will admit they did mix well together to create a balanced cocktail. However, it’s definitely a strong flavor profile that’s NOT for everyone. We’d suspect it’s likely a drink that one would either adore or think tastes terrible.

The smoke effect was really fun as always…

Smooooookin’

…but our favorite aesthetic element was the crystal clear ice cube!

You can see RIGHT through it!

Overall

Despite our complex thoughts on the drink, we generally loved the Nova Bar. Universal’s service, especially the bartenders, was great as usual. Overall we loved the idea of a lobby bar, complete with a smoked cocktail, in the lobby of a “value” level resort. It’s one of many amenities featured at Stella Nova that one would generally expect to only find at a hotel with a higher price point.