When Universal’s Epic Universe opened its gates this past May, it instantly became one of the most talked-about theme park launches in years. From its elaborate themed lands to its ambitious ride systems, the park earned praise for its scale and detail. But even a hit isn’t immune to missteps – as proven by one surprising drama earlier this month.
Epic Universe is split into five lands, each meticulously designed to immerse guests in a distinct universe. SUPER NINTENDO WORLD quickly emerged as a guest favorite, while the new Wizarding World of Harry Potter area – complete with a grand Ministry of Magic queue spectacle – stunned visitors with its immersive storytelling.
Character meet-and-greets have also struck a chord with guests, earning comparisons to the best of Disney’s offerings. Yet among all the positive feedback, a few pain points have repeatedly surfaced—none more persistent than those relating to heat, hours, and food service.
A Minor Epic Universe Policy With Major Irritation
One of the earliest controversies surrounded Pizza Moon, the Celestial Park restaurant known for its retro-futurist aesthetic and oven-baked pies. At first, guests could take leftovers to go—a convenience many appreciated. But that quietly changed earlier this month, with no formal announcement. Suddenly, pizza boxes were no longer available.
Guests were left with half-eaten pies and no easy way to bring them back to their hotel rooms or finish them later in the day. In the Florida heat, even the idea of carrying uncovered slices through the park wasn’t ideal. In a park that otherwise felt carefully considered, the change seemed jarringly shortsighted.
Pizza Moon to-go boxes, manufactured prior to the park opening, are a very functional way to transport your pizza throughout your celestial travels!
Pizza Moon to-go boxes, manufactured prior to the park opening, are a very functional way to transport your pizza throughout your celestial travels! pic.twitter.com/nMxi1jxPNx
— Orlando Informer (@OrlandoInformer) June 25, 2025
Now, the park has reversed course. Pizza Moon’s to-go boxes have returned—complete with the whimsical moon-and-slice design that nods to Le Voyage dans la Lune, a 1902 silent film that inspired the restaurant’s theme.
The boxes are now available upon request, but with a caveat: guests seemingly must eat at least one slice before taking the rest to go.
It’s a minor update, but a meaningful one. The reintroduction of the branded boxes has already been met with enthusiasm from returning visitors.
With the park still in its first months of operation, tweaks like these are likely to continue. Whether addressing takeout convenience or broader concerns like limited shade and early closing hours, Epic Universe has time – and now, precedent – for change.
What other changes would you like to see at Epic Universe?
