Welcome back to January’s photo update around CityWalk and Universal Studios Hollywood. In this first photo update of 2023, we focus on the opening of Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen and also take a glimpse into Super Nintendo World which has been open for select periods of time for technical rehearsals. We also take a look into the Lunar New Year festivities at the park. 

We have a lot to unravel. Let’s get started!

Park Update Index

» CityWalk Hollywood
» Super Nintendo World
» Lunar New Year at Universal Studios Hollywood
» A Little Bit of This, A Little Bit of That

CityWalk Hollywood

The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen has finally opened at CityWalk Hollywood! Located in front of the Universal Cinema, this steampunk-themed restaurant offers a variety of menu items ranging from brunch, burgers, pastas to decadent milkshakes. While the restaurant offers a full dining experience – guests can also order milkshakes to-go at the Dessert Foundry and also purchase delicious gourmet confectionery or themed merchandise at the Candy Smith. Both indoor and outdoor dining options are available. 

The Production Central is back at CityWalk! Located between Lids and Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt, this has replaced the Grinchmas Store which was open for guests during the holiday season. Here you will be able to find merchandise dedicated to some classic Universal films such as E.T., Back to the Future, Jaws, and Jurassic Park. 

Super Nintendo World

Super Nintendo World has been in technical rehearsals and some guests have had a chance to experience the land before its grand opening on February 17! While the land is in technical rehearsal there is no guarantee that the land will be open and access may be limited until its official opening. 

The warp pipe located next to Transformers: The Ride-3D on the Lower Lot transports guests to newly built land. The music, moving animatronics of very notable characters, and intricately designed elements in the land contribute to a very transformative experience. Here you can enjoy a variety of interactive elements, dining, shopping, character meet and greets, and experience Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge. 

Power-Up Bands allow for an elevated experience throughout the land and can be linked with the Universal Studios Hollywood app. Available in six designs, Power-Up Bands can be purchased at the kiosk and the 1-Up Factory store inside Super Nintendo World or at shops located at the park that offer Super Nintendo World merchandise. Using Power-Up Bands, guests can collect coins by punching coin blocks, log scores from the ride, and participate in the various Key Challenges that are present around the land. Power-Up Bands purchased at Universal Studios Hollywood can also be used at Universal Studios Japan as well. 

In addition to the store and attraction, guests can also enjoy a meal at the Toadstool Cafe and interact with Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach.

Lunar New Year at Universal Studios Hollywood

Lunar New Year festivities are back at Universal Studios Hollywood! To celebrate the Year of the Rabbit, The Hollywood & Dine has transformed into the Noodle House. Decorated with red lanterns, cherry blossoms, banners representing the zodiac animals, and a statue of a golden rabbit at its entrance, the restaurant will be serving a variety of Asian cuisine until February 28, 2023. 

Merchandise is also back and features the Minions! A special Minion Lunar New Year Popcorn Pail is available for purchase for $39.99. There are keychains, a t-shirt, and a mug featuring the Minions dressed up as the 12 zodiac animals. 

The Year of the Rabbit Almond Cookies and the Popcorn Pail are also available for purchase at the decorated refreshments stand near Pets Place.

A Little Bit of This, A Little Bit of That

Universal Plaza, Production Central, and both Animal Actors and the Special Effects Show which officially closed at the beginning month are all closed off. 

The Super Mario Bros. Movie is being promoted throughout the park in between the areas of the Starway and on the side of the Revenge of the Mummy.

Speaking of Revenge of the Mummy, a new banner for the ride can be seen as well. 

Jurassic World: The Ride in the Lower Lot is closed for refurbishment and scaffolding can be seen along the rocks.

That’ll do it for this month’s photo update. As always, we wish you well and thank you for following our continuing coverage of Universal Parks and Resorts!