Busch Garden's Specialty Margarita Alone Makes The Day Trip Worth It
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In the newest episode of Iconic Eats, Adriana Redding is heading back to her home state of Florida to visit Busch Gardens Tampa. We've already eaten our way through the Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, Virginia. And since we loved the food there so much (we still dream about that maple bacon donut), we figured it was time to visit the OG park.
Busch Gardens Tampa is like a theme park crossed with a safari. They offer thrilling rollercoasters and the opportunity to see some of the world's most majestic animals up close. There are more than 200 species of animals in the 335-acre park—it's even one of the most highly accredited zoos in the United States.
There are so many attractions at Busch Gardens Tampa, but we were most excited about the food, of course. With all the theme park classics and exciting new menu items, it's nearly impossible to decide what to try. Thankfully, Adriana ate her way through the park to find the best of the best.
Here are the six can't-miss food and drink items at Busch Gardens Tampa:
Best Drink: Hot Honey Margarita, $13.99
Hot honey is having a moment right now, and we're gladly along for the ride. The sweet and spicy flavor profile is great on pizza, fried chicken, or even desserts. But the best way to enjoy hot honey, in our opinion, is in a cocktail.
The Hot Honey Margarita at Springs Taproom is seriously spicy. It's made with premium tequila, lime, triple sec, and hot honey. Add in the ultra-spicy rim and slice of fresh jalapeño and you have the ultimate summer sip.
Best Meatless Option: Vegetable Samosas, $9.99
Having a Busch Gardens annual pass comes with some serious perks. You can visit the park whenever you want, enjoy plenty of discounts, and take advantage of free parking. But the best benefit is getting access to the exclusive Pass Member Lounge—and their members-only dining menu.
The vegetable samosas are crispy, flaky, and full of spiced vegetables. And the accompanying peppadew chutney adds just the right amount of heat. It's the best vegetarian treat in the park, and you get to enjoy it in comfy lounge chairs with built-in outlets.
Best For Sharing: Southern Dog, $14.99
Hot dogs can come in many forms: Chicago style, Cincinnati chili-topped, or just served simple with some basic condiments. But the food at Dragon Dog is anything but basic.
Their Southern Dog is a whopping 12 inches long and is stuffed with pimento mac and cheese, bacon, cheddar cheese sauce, fried green tomatoes, and a remoulade. It's so decadent and indulgent, which makes it perfect to split with your travel partner.
Best Entree: Zambia Smokehouse Sampler, $25.99
Nothing is better than homemade barbecue. At Zambia Smokehouse, you can enjoy all of your smoky favorites: The sampler platter comes with brisket, Memphis-style ribs, chicken baked beans, fries, and Texas toast.
You can taste the hickory and oak in every tender bite. And if you want to really lean into the barbecue vibes, ordering a side of mac and cheese is a must.
Best Dessert: Berry Berry Cheesecake Thrill Shake, $14.99
Moroccan Delights takes milkshakes to the extreme. Their Berry Berry Cheesecake Thrill Shake is made with strawberry cheesecake ice cream, whipped cream, strawberries, sprinkles, and graham cracker crumbs. Oh yeah, and there's also an entire slice of cheesecake sitting on top. This isn't your average milkshake, folks. And it's worth every penny.
Best Snack: Bacon Pretzel Fury, $11.99
Pretzels are an amusement park staple. And Twisted Tails Pretzels has all the classic flavors you know and love, but the fan-favorite menu item by far is the Bacon Pretzel Fury.
It's two pretzels and two slices of bacon braided around a stick for the meaty, smoky snack of your dreams. It's soft, warm, and doused in plenty of warm butter and coarse salt. This is one menu item that absolutely deserves the hype.
Previously on Iconic Eats: An Insider's Guide To The Best Drinks On Virgin Cruises
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