Universal CityWalk Hollywood is rolling out the virtual pastel pink carpet as it welcomes two delightful new additions to its entertainment, shopping, and dining promenade. On Friday, September 6, 2024, fans of the beloved global pop icon Hello Kitty will have the chance to indulge in the all-new Hello Kitty and Friends Cafe and explore the Sanrio Smile Shop, both celebrating the whimsical world of Sanrio’s most cherished characters.
A Sweet Escape: Hello Kitty and Friends Cafe
The Hello Kitty and Friends Cafe is set to become a must-visit destination for anyone with a sweet tooth and a love for all things Sanrio. Adorned with a giant signature Hello Kitty bow and framed by a pastel pink and white awning, the cafe offers a unique grab-and-go experience with the option to enjoy treats at umbrella-covered tables just outside the walk-up venue.
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As the first of its kind to open in Los Angeles, this cafe promises a delightful Sanrio-themed menu that includes:
Desserts:
- Hello Kitty® Mousse Dome: A red chocolate dome-shaped cake filled with cinnamon mousse, apple pie filling, and cinnamon streusel.
- Seasonal Mousse Domes: Inspired by Hello Kitty’s friends, these dome cakes are crafted uniquely based on their personalities.
- Strawberry Cake: Vanilla sponge cake layered with strawberry jam and whipped white chocolate ganache.
- Berry & Cream Churro: A berry-stuffed churro with cream cheese frosting.
- Birthday Cake: Confetti cake layered with white chocolate mousse and topped with whipped white chocolate ganache.
- Macaron Set: Includes raspberry, caramel, vanilla, pistachio, and chocolate macarons.
- Hello Kitty Cookie: A sugar cookie shaped like Hello Kitty, topped with royal icing and rainbow sprinkles.
Beverages:
- Hello Kitty® Strawberry Green Iced Tea: A refreshing blend of strawberry green tea with a pink sugar rim, garnished with strawberries and mint.
- My Melody™ Lemonade: A sweet and tangy strawberry lemonade with a yellow sugar rim.
- Kuromi™ Berry Iced Tea: Blackberry tea with a purple sugar rim, served with blackberries and mint.
- Tuxedosam™ Lemonade: Blue raspberry lemonade with a pink sugar rim and a lemon wheel.
- Keroppi™ Matcha Latte: A frozen matcha latte topped with whipped cream and matcha powder.
- Chococat™ Frozen Mocha: Frozen coffee with chocolate boba, whipped cream, and chocolate sprinkles.
A Shopper’s Paradise: Sanrio Smile Shop
Located right next to the cafe, the Sanrio Smile Shop is a vibrant celebration of all things Sanrio. Guests can dive into a treasure trove of themed collectibles featuring Hello Kitty and her friends Cinnamoroll, Keroppi, Kuromi, My Melody, Badtz-maru, and Chococat.
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The shop offers an array of products perfect for both avid collectors and casual fans, including:
- Iconic backpacks with Hello Kitty’s bow
- Stylish Spirit Jersey® apparel
- Embellished hats
- Specialty cups and mugs
- Collectible pins
- T-shirts, plush toys, keychains, and jewelry
- Phone cases, lanyards, and much more
Fans can also take home a piece of the cafe’s charm with an exclusive line of Hello Kitty and Friends Cafe-themed merchandise, available only at the Sanrio Smile Shop. This collection will be expanded with new items throughout the year, offering even more ways to celebrate the beloved Sanrio universe.
To top off the experience, the shop features a dynamic in-store photo op spotlighting Hello Kitty and her friends—a perfect moment to capture and share with fellow fans.
Celebrate Hello Kitty’s 50th Anniversary at Universal Studios Hollywood
Hello Kitty’s presence at Universal Studios Hollywood continues to bring joy to visitors at her dedicated meet-and-greet area adjacent to the Animation Studio Store. This year, in honor of her 50th anniversary, Hello Kitty debuted a soft pastel pink flowy dress, embodying a perfect blend of timeless charm and elegance. Fans can pose alongside the iconic character and create lasting memories during this milestone celebration.
For those eager to dive into the world of Hello Kitty and her friends, the Hello Kitty and Friends Cafe and Sanrio Smile Shop are now open at Universal CityWalk Hollywood. Whether you’re indulging in sweet treats or picking up exclusive merchandise, this delightful new addition is sure to bring a smile to every visitor’s face.
Are you planning to visit the Hello Kitty and Friends Cafe at Universal CityWalk? Which Sanrio character are you most excited to see in the new collection? Share your favorite Hello Kitty moments with us on social media!
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