Before the era of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood, a more enchanting attraction held court in the adjacent CityWalk plaza. For over a decade, Wizardz Magic Dinner Theatre mesmerized both inebriated adults and children celebrating birthdays at its Universal City location. This innovative blend of restaurant, theatre, and magic shop featured roaming magicians, fortune tellers, dazzling laser and magic shows, and even a bar resembling Merlin’s hat. Although it was once dearly loved, the venue was primarily forgotten and eventually replaced by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s West Hollywood station.
In 1992, Universal Studios announced plans for a 200,000-square-foot shopping center that would serve as a grand entrance connecting the parking areas. Alongside Wizardz, the plaza was slated to host a variety of themed establishments—from restaurants like Hard Rock Cafe and KWGB (a radio station–themed burger joint) to retail outlets such as Sam Goody and Ca...