Helios Rooftop Bar
An upscale rooftop bar at Helios Grand Hotel offering celestial-themed cocktails and Mediterranean bites with stunning views of Epic Universe.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Watch the spectacular light show
Helios Rooftop Bar
Best Time
Watch the spectacular light show
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An upscale rooftop bar at Helios Grand Hotel offering celestial-themed cocktails and Mediterranean bites with stunning views of Epic Universe.
"The most stunning view in all of Orlando is from the top of the Helios Grand hotel!"
🎯 Reserve Your Table
Reservations are highly recommended for the best views, especially for the evening show.
💰 It's a Splurge
Expect higher prices for food and drinks; it's more for a special occasion.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Epic Universe Nighttime Spectacular
Rooftop patio
Unobstructed, panoramic views of the park's dazzling light and fountain show.
Celestial-Themed Ambiance
Bar interior
An elegant, astronomy-inspired setting with nods to mythology and unique decor.
Creative Mediterranean-Inspired Menu
Dining area
Upscale small plates and unique cocktails with a Mediterranean flair.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Secure Your Spot with Reservations
Budget for a Splurge
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Reserve Your Table
Reservations are highly recommended for the best views, especially for the evening show. +1
💰 It's a Splurge
Expect higher prices for food and drinks; it's more for a special occasion.
✨ Dress for the Occasion
The atmosphere is upscale, so consider dressing a bit nicer.
🚗 Validated Parking
Spend $75+ at the hotel for validated valet parking.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Reserve Your Table
Reservations are highly recommended for the best views, especially for the evening show. +1
💰 It's a Splurge
Expect higher prices for food and drinks; it's more for a special occasion.
✨ Dress for the Occasion
The atmosphere is upscale, so consider dressing a bit nicer.
🚗 Validated Parking
Spend $75+ at the hotel for validated valet parking.
🌃 Patio Views
Sit on the patio for the best, unobstructed views of the park's light show.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bar Helios is lauded for its breathtaking panoramic views of Epic Universe, especially during the nighttime spectacular, and its sophisticated, celestial-themed ambiance. While the food and drinks are praised for their quality and creativity, many find the portions small and the prices quite high, making it more of a special occasion splurge than a regular dining spot.
"Bar Helios is an amazing spot for an out of this world dining experience! The staff is so friendly and helpful. From the hostess to the multitude of servers we interacted with, everyone was so kind and personable. The menu is Mediterranean inspired. Beware...this is an expensive place to eat, but the quality of food and the atmosphere makes it very special. This isn't somewhere we'll eat every time we visit the parks, but it is somewhere we'll treat as a special occasion destination. We tried the crab cake, farmer's cheese, steak skewer, and under smoke dessert. We had the chariot of the sun cocktail. Everything was incredibly delicious. The portions are small but tasty. We had reservations (recommended) that allowed us to watch Epic Universe change from daylight to twilight to night during our reservation time, and the views were stunning!"
Amber Black
"My family recently ate here while staying at the Grand Helios Hotel. The bar's domed area is beautiful. The food and drinks are very upscale but a bit pricey and not a lot of selection on the kid's menu. All of the drinks and food we ordered were very good. This is place is more suited to a date night fine dining atmosphere. Our server was very nice and accommodating. The view of the Epic park is amazing, though I did not like that they use plexiglass above the patio handrails. it distorts the view if it's been raining or if it gets dirty. I wished they would have used something else that you did not have to look thru. If you are going to sit out on the patio the center area has a number of outer decorations that can block your view, sitting to the left or right of center the view is open. If you're going to this place at night, consider going so you are there at the closing of Epic and go out on to the patio for the closing show Epic has every night. It is the only view where you can see the enter park and view how all of the lighting in the park is synced to the show. There is a good chance you are going to need reservations depending on the time you are going"
Joseph Koren
"This is the top floor bar at the Helios Hotel in Universal Studios. It's vaguely astronomy themed with nods to mythology as well. At first I thought the Greek words were just gibberish, but then realized they appeared to be people's first names - maybe the people involved in designing this place? It's a nice bar with good drinks and scaled up bar food. It's also a fantastic place to view Epic Universe and particularly it's closing ceremonies. Fantastic place to go for a drink!"
James McCallum
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bar Helios is located on the rooftop of the Helios Grand Hotel, which is adjacent to Universal's Epic Universe. You can access the hotel and bar without a park ticket. Valet parking is available at the hotel entrance. +1
While the hotel is adjacent to the park, direct park-to-hotel access after closing may be restricted. It's best to exit the park and approach the hotel from the main entrance. Shuttles from the hotel to CityWalk typically run until midnight.
Yes, valet parking is available at the Helios Grand Hotel. If you spend $75 or more at the hotel, your parking will be validated.
Guests staying at Universal Orlando Resort hotels can utilize resort transportation. For others, driving and using the hotel's valet parking is the most convenient option.
No, you do not need an Epic Universe park ticket to visit Bar Helios. It is located within the Helios Grand Hotel and is accessible to all guests. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for evening visits and to secure a good spot for the Epic Universe light show. Limited walk-in seating is available. +1
Bar Helios is typically open until midnight, but hours can vary. It's advisable to check the official Universal Orlando Resort website or app for the most current operating hours.
There is no specific entry fee to access Bar Helios, but you will be expected to order food and/or drinks.
Yes, reservations are the best way to ensure you have a prime viewing spot for the Epic Universe light show from Bar Helios. +1
While not strictly enforced, the atmosphere is upscale. Many guests opt for smart casual or slightly dressier attire to match the sophisticated ambiance.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
Bar Helios offers stunning panoramic views of Universal's Epic Universe, especially breathtaking at night during the park's light and fountain show. +2
The menu is Mediterranean-inspired, featuring upscale small plates, creative cocktails, and unique desserts. Portions are generally small but high quality.
While the views are great for all ages, the upscale atmosphere and pricing might be more suited for adults or families looking for a special occasion treat. The kid's menu selection is limited.
The 'Under Smoke' is an interactive dessert experience where smoke is used for presentation and aroma, offering a unique sensory dining element.
Some outer decorations in the center of the patio can block views. Sitting to the left or right of center generally provides an open view. The plexiglass above the handrails can sometimes distort the view.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Bar Helios is considered expensive, with small plates and creative cocktails carrying a premium price tag. It's often described as a splurge for a special occasion.
Popular choices include the crab cake, steak skewer, scallop dish, and the interactive 'Under Smoke' dessert. Cocktails like the 'Chariot of the Sun' and 'Athenian Milk Punch' are also well-regarded. +1
No, the portions are generally small, focusing on quality and presentation rather than quantity. It's recommended not to go if you are very hungry. +1
The selection on the kid's menu is limited, making the bar more geared towards adults or families seeking a fine dining experience.
While the patio offers the most direct views, some areas within the bar may also offer glimpses of the light show, especially if you have a reservation near the windows. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The rooftop patio offers incredible panoramic shots of Epic Universe, especially during sunset and the nighttime spectacular. The interior's celestial decor also provides unique photo opportunities. +1
Absolutely! Bar Helios provides an excellent vantage point for capturing the entire Epic Universe light and fountain show without park crowds. +2
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, it's always good practice to be mindful of other guests and avoid intrusive photography.
Sunset provides beautiful golden hour lighting for photos of the park and the bar's ambiance. Nighttime is perfect for capturing the vibrant lights of Epic Universe.
Yes, the plexiglass can sometimes distort views, especially if it's dirty or has been raining. For the clearest shots, try to find angles that minimize reflections or smudges.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, families should be aware that the bar is an upscale establishment with a Mediterranean-inspired menu and premium pricing. The food portions are small, and the kid's menu selection is limited. It might be best suited for families looking for a special occasion treat or a sophisticated experience, rather than a casual family dinner. Consider visiting earlier in the day for a more relaxed atmosphere or focusing on enjoying the views with a drink or dessert.
🥂 Couples and Date Nights
Enjoy creative cocktails and upscale small plates while taking in the sunset or the dazzling nighttime spectacular. The intimate atmosphere and the focus on quality dining make it a wonderful choice for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying a luxurious evening together. Making a reservation is key to ensuring a prime spot for the best views.
💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers
Alternatively, you could visit the hotel lobby or other areas of the Helios Grand Hotel for a taste of the luxury without the rooftop prices. If you do opt for the rooftop bar, sharing small plates and cocktails can help manage costs while still enjoying the unique experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Epic Universe Nighttime Spectacular View
The show typically runs right at park close, making it a perfect way to end your day. The elevated perspective allows you to see how all the lighting in the park is synchronized with the show, creating a truly immersive experience. For the best views, opt for seating on the outdoor patio, ensuring you have an unobstructed line of sight.
While the view is spectacular, it's important to note that the plexiglass barriers on the patio, while functional, can sometimes distort the view, especially if they are dirty or wet. Despite this minor inconvenience, the overall experience of watching the show from Bar Helios is consistently praised as a highlight.
Dining and Drinks: A Celestial Experience
Signature dishes include items like the scallop dish and the interactive 'Under Smoke' dessert, which provides a multi-sensory dining experience. For drinks, the 'Chariot of the Sun' and 'Athenian Milk Punch' are frequently recommended. The bar's celestial and mythological theme is subtly woven into the menu, adding to the overall ambiance.
Be prepared for premium pricing; this is an expensive venue. However, many reviewers feel the quality of the food, the innovative drinks, and the stunning atmosphere justify the cost for a memorable experience. It's a place where the view and the culinary artistry combine for a truly out-of-this-world dining adventure.
Planning Your Visit: Reservations and Budget
When budgeting for your visit, keep in mind that Bar Helios is an upscale establishment. Prices for both food and drinks are on the higher side, reflecting the quality, unique offerings, and the prime location. It's often described as a place for a special treat or a celebratory meal rather than a casual stop.
For those driving, valet parking is available at the Helios Grand Hotel. Spending $75 or more at the hotel can help validate your parking, making it a slightly more cost-effective option if you plan to indulge.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit