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Written by our founders and volunteers, keeping you up to date!

A Season of Joy, Christmas Highlights, Ongoing Winter Fun, and New Year Celebrations at Grande Lakes

The holidays are in full swing at Grande Lakes, and there is no better place to soak up the season’s magic. From Christmas highlights to ongoing winter activities and sparkling New Year celebrations, the resort offers something for everyone, families, couples, and friends alike. Glide across the outdoor ice rink under twinkling lights, cozy up by private fire pits, or delight in festive holiday dining experiences that celebrate seasonal flavors and local ingredients. Keep your December calendar full with interactive...

Winter Park’s Grappolo Cucina Italiana Serves Up a Seasonal Italian Menu This December

As winter settles over Winter Park and the holiday decorations and lights appear along Park Avenue, Grappolo Cucina Italiana becomes an inviting refuge for leisurely evenings and festive gatherings. One of the newest restaurants on Park Avenue, they have been starting to get a lot of buzz for their excellent Italian cuisine. All through December, this new neighborhood favorite at 526 S Park Avenue is celebrating the season with a special menu that focuses on comforting Italian flavors, elegant seafood,...

Holiday Happenings 2025 Round Up – Merry Moments in Orlando This December: Christmas Bars, Events, and Family Fun

Orlando is shining bright this holiday season with festive pop-ups, themed bars, and special holiday menus that bring cheer to every corner of the city. From elegant Christmas dinners and brunches in Lake Nona to tropical holiday cocktails on International Drive, each experience captures the spirit of the season in its own unique way. Whether you are planning a family outing, a cozy date night, or a lively celebration with friends, these spots offer plenty of ways to sip,...

James Beard Award Nominated Chef Brandon McGlamery to Open New Restaurant – The Reverie, An American Brasserie, in Winter Park

Chef Brandon McGlamery is collaborating with Foundry Hospitality's Brandon Manly to establish The Reverie, an American brasserie in Winter Park, Florida. The new restaurant is planned to open in Fall 2026 in the location previously occupied by Chez Vincent. A two-time James Beard nominee and author of 9 Courses, Brandon is known for shaping Winter Park’s modern culinary identity in Luma, Prato, & Lukes  through his leadership, creativity, and commitment to the craft. Chef McGlamery is also an alumni of The...

Orlando’s Best New Year’s Eve Dining and Celebration Guide

As Orlando prepares to welcome 2026, the city’s dining and nightlife destinations are pulling out all the stops. From high-energy parties on International Drive to elegant rooftop celebrations and family-friendly festivities in Lake Nona, there’s a perfect way for everyone to ring in the New Year. Whether you’re looking for a five-course feast, a fireworks view, or a night filled with music and dancing, these top spots are where the countdown to 2026 truly comes alive. Live! At The Pointe...

Our Top 18 Tips for Visiting Tokyo, Japan – A Foodie’s Guide to Japan – Spring 2026 Edition – Part 1

Orlando International Airport (MCO) recently announced the first-ever nonstop passenger flights to Tokyo, operated by ZIPAIR Tokyo, a subsidiary of Japan Airlines. These flights are being offered as a limited series of four round-trip charter flights in early 2026. Tickets recently went on sale and the success of these initial charters will determine if a permanent, scheduled service will be established. Key details about the flights:Route: Nonstop between Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT). Airline: ZIPAIR (using Boeing...

After Closures in 2020, Sweet Tomatoes Returns to Florida in 2026

The beloved Sweet Tomatoes is set to return to Florida in 2026 according to a recent social media post by their official page from Tucson, Arizona. On Sunday, December 7th, they confirmed that Sweet Tomatoes is returning to Florida in Ft Myers, Florida. It began with a few cryptic posts for a few weeks leading up to the announcement today. And finally, an announcement of return. Sweet Tomatoes began under the Souplantation name first opening in 1978 in San Diego, California and was...

This Beloved Michelin Recognized Italian Restaurant in Winter Park Reopens after “Riposo” – Prato on Park Avenue

Prato is a Michelin-recognized Italian restaurant owned and operated by the Park LightsHospitality group in Winter Park. They recently re-opened after a multi-week "riposo", or pause in service while undergoing a series of brand enhancements. Nearly a year in the making by the Park Lights Hospitality team, Prato paused service for the month of October to complete a refresh including an enhanced bar and dining room,refreshed branded elements, and back-of-house upfits to support the restaurant’s historically cozy kitchen. “Over the last 14...