Universal CityWalk Hollywood is rolling out the red (or should we say pink?) carpet for a global icon. Now open, Hello Kitty’s 50th anniversary is being celebrated with limited-time menu items at the all-new Hello Kitty and Friends Cafe and exclusive merchandise at the newly launched Sanrio Smile Shop. The celebration, which began on November 1 (Hello Kitty Day), runs through December 31, inviting fans of all ages to join in the fun.
Delightful Menu at the Hello Kitty and Friends Cafe
I had the chance to try some of the new 50th-anniversary treats firsthand, including the 50th cookie sandwich and the hot chocolate bow bomb. Both were delightfully sweet and perfect for those with a big sweet tooth. Known for its whimsical and irresistibly cute offerings, the Hello Kitty and Friends Cafe is elevating its menu with these special additions. Executive Chef Julia Thrash has designed a selection of items to honor Hello Kitty’s playful essence:
- 50th Cookie Sandwich: a delightful, artfully crafted cookie sandwich that’s as delicious as it is adorable.
- 50th Anniversary Cake: a celebratory dessert perfect for indulging.
- Sparkling Strawberry Drink with Coconut Cream Foam: a refreshing, bubbly treat with a creamy twist.
These limited-time items join the café’s current lineup of sweet treats like the hello kitty mousse dome, berry & cream churro, and macaron set. New signature hot beverages, including the mocha bow bomb latte and hot chocolate bow bomb, are now available, bringing warmth and charm to the season.
A Shopper’s Paradise: The Sanrio Smile Shop
Next to the Hello Kitty and Friends Cafe, the Sanrio Smile Shop beckons with its bright and cheerful interior, an embodiment of Hello Kitty’s fun-loving spirit. Fans can explore a specially curated 50th-anniversary collection that features everything from t-shirts and plush toys to ceramic mugs, tumblers, stationery kits, and more. The shop also offers exclusive merchandise inspired by the Hello Kitty and Friends Cafe, including vibrant pink aprons, hats, and logo-emblazoned magnets—ideal for those wanting a tangible keepsake of their experience.
Meet and Greet: Special Appearances by Hello Kitty and Friends
Adding to the magic, guests can enjoy meet-and-greet opportunities with Hello Kitty herself, dressed in a charming pastel pink dress created for her 50th anniversary. Kuromi, another fan favorite, will also be present, making it the perfect photo opportunity for visitors.
An Interview with Executive Chef Julia Thrash
Chef Julia Thrash, the mastermind behind the delectable anniversary menu, shared her insights on the inspiration for these new creations:
“The 50th anniversary is a huge moment for Hello Kitty fans, and we wanted to craft treats that reflect her joyful and playful spirit. The Sparkling Strawberry Drink with Coconut Cream Foam, for instance, is meant to capture that sweetness and surprise Hello Kitty brings,” Thrash said.
When asked about her creative process, Thrash explained:
“We draw inspiration from Hello Kitty’s global impact—her ability to bring smiles to faces across cultures. Each new menu item was designed to be eye-catching, delicious, and infused with a touch of nostalgia.”
Q: What was your favorite item to create for this special menu?
Julia Thrash: “I’d have to say the 50th Anniversary Cake. It was so much fun to design something that embodies celebration and joy. The balance of flavors and the attention to detail were key to making it both beautiful and indulgent.”
Q: How do you ensure that each menu item stays true to the Hello Kitty brand?
Julia Thrash: “Every item goes through a thoughtful design process where we consider Hello Kitty’s playful and timeless nature. We focus on vibrant colors, balanced flavors, and a touch of whimsy to capture her spirit.”
A Word from Jill Koch, SVP of Marketing and Brand Management, Sanrio
Jill Koch, who oversees marketing and brand management for Sanrio, shared her excitement about this milestone celebration:
Q: What does Hello Kitty’s 50th anniversary mean to Sanrio and its fans?
Jill Koch: “Hello Kitty’s 50th anniversary is a testament to her enduring charm and the love she has inspired around the world. For us at Sanrio, it’s about celebrating that connection with fans who have grown up with her and introducing her magic to new generations. This event at Universal CityWalk embodies everything Hello Kitty stands for—friendship, fun, and creativity.”
Q: What can fans expect from the new Sanrio Smile Shop?
Jill Koch: “The Sanrio Smile Shop is more than just a retail experience; it’s an immersion into the world of Hello Kitty and her friends. Fans will find exclusive merchandise that reflects the 50th-anniversary theme and showcases the joy and warmth that Hello Kitty brings to all.”
The Perfect Gift Stop for Fans
From themed cell phone bags to collectible lanyards and backpacks, the Sanrio Smile Shop ensures fans can bring a bit of Hello Kitty’s 50th magic home. The limited-time merchandise is available only through December 31, so visitors are encouraged to snag their favorites before they’re gone. Whether you’re there for a treat, a memento, or a photo with Hello Kitty, there’s no shortage of fun to be had.
To explore all things Sanrio, visit sanrio.com and follow the Hello Kitty Cafe’s Instagram and @sanrio
Hello Kitty Cafe and Sanrio Smile Shop
Location: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City
Hours: Open Daily
Photo credits: Courtesy of Sanrio Co.LTD
