The Minions have truly taken over. At least one whole street at Universal Orlando. Right after the recently announced interactive attraction, Villain-Con Minion Blast, the theme park has released new details about its highly anticipated Minion Land!
Scheduled to open this summer, the new land expands on the Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem ride and will feature photo opportunities, restaurants, and shops focused on the successful Illumination animated films.
According to a press release from Universal Orlando Resort, "As soon as guests enter, they will be greeted by a fun and photogenic 'Minion Land' marquee with 22 Minions before embarking on the mischief that awaits them along Illumination Ave."
The Minion Cafe takes over the former Monsters Cafe and will be divided into three areas: the kitchen, where guests can catch a glimpse of the team the Minions have used to prepare the cafe's menu; the break room, where diners can hang out in the Minions' rest space, including everything from "Office Safety Tips" to a vending machine filled with mischievous items; and the Dining Room, a vibrant space adorned with colorful artwork courtesy of the Minions.
The Cafe will offer nearly 20 items inspired by the animated characters, including Otto's Noodle Bowl, Agnes's Honeymoon Soup, and Carl's Crispy Cauliflower (a vegan offering).
For the "mini Minions" in the family, the kids' menu will include Mini Boss's Mega Melt and, for dessert, Bob's Teddy Bear Chocolate Cream Puff.
Also in Minion Land is the sweet shop Bake My Day, crowned with a giant pink cupcake visible from anywhere in the land. Universal says it will serve a selection of Minion-themed sweets, including cupcakes, macarons, s'mores, and more.
Other food highlights for enthusiasts include fresh treats at Freeze Ray Pops and sweet and savory popcorn at the Pop-a-Nana stand. And yes, like Universal Studios Japan, they will serve banana-flavored popcorn!
But the most anticipated of all is Illumination's Villain-Con Minion Blast, the park's newest attraction occupying the space once occupied by Shrek 4-D. While Universal is keeping most of the information about the interactive ride under wraps, it will feature a blaster where "guests can test their villain skills.
Additionally, the theater marquee that once hosted Donkey and Shrek for meet-and-greets will become the Illumination Theatre, where visitors can interact with beloved characters like the Minions, Gru, Margo, Edith, and Agnes, as well as new additions from the "Sing" movies.