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Inside Look: Xurro, Churro Factory at Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets

Kayla Springmyer
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Inside Look: Xurro, Churro Factory at Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets

Xurro, Churro Factory offers all things churro, from Churro Sundaes to Churro S’mores, and everything in between. We were invited out to Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets to try some of Xurro’s most popular menu items. Churros are an Orlando foodie staple, so we were excited to try some of their sweet creations.

Xurro, Churro Factory at Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets

Churro Sundae

The Churro Sundae features three scoops of vanilla ice cream, warm chocolate fudge, two warm churros and is topped with whipped cream and rainbow sprinkles. If you’ve never dipped a warm churro into an ice cream sundae, here’s your chance. The combination was just as tasty as expected, and we highly recommend this dish.

Churro S’more

The Churro S’more pairs two fresh churro buns, with gooey marshmallows and melted milk chocolate. Xurro roasts the marshmallows fresh, so the taste is reminiscent of childhood s’mores around a campfire. The warm marshmallow effectively melts the chocolate, making for a wonderfully sweet treat.

Churro Loop

The Churro Loop is completely covered with chocolate fudge, and topped with rainbow sprinkles. This is the perfect quick bite for all the chocolate lovers out there. It’s surprisingly filling, and even more beautiful to look at. Just be careful – it’s easy to make a mess with this treat!

Classic Churro

It’s not a churro tasting experience without at least one classic churro. Xurro makes their churros fresh to order, so they are significantly better than your classic theme park churros. Our churro was nice and warm, and cooked to perfection. For a quick and more affordable snack option, definitely try the classic churro. Xurro also offers churros filled with strawberry and vanilla, or dipped in Nutella or Dulce de Leche.

Other menu items that also looked delicious include the Churro Milkshakes, Funnel Cakes, Mexican Chocolate and more.

Xurro, Churro Factory has two locations, one at the Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets as well as one in Clermont. You can follow them on Instagram at @ChurroFactory_Xurro.

First Look: Newly expanded, renovated Kabooki Sushi on Colonial Drive

Tiffany Nguyen
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First Look: Newly expanded, renovated Kabooki Sushi on Colonial Drive

Kabooki Sushi unveiled its newly renovated and expanded building on Tuesday night during a friends and family event.

Located across from the Fashion Square Mall at the corner of Maguire Blvd and Colonial Drive, Kabooki has essentially doubled in size at 3,000 sq. ft. and has added a full liquor bar, lounge area and izakaya late night menu.

Owner Henry Moso, Orlando’s first and only James Beard Rising Star Chef of the Year nominee, has been working hard throughout the pandemic plotting and building out the expansion of his beloved original location.  His second location, which opened last summer in Bayhill Plaza at 7705 Turkey Lake Road, has been well-received by guests and deemed one of the best sushi restaurants in the area.

Kabooki Sushi v2.0 will be in soft opening mode today through Saturday and will fully open for dinner service starting this Sunday.

Here are pictures of all the dishes that we enjoyed during Friends & Family night:

Hamachi Carpaccio – Japanese yellowtail, yuzu tobiko, ponzu, kaffir lime oil, Thai kosho, Serrano peppers

Maguro Truffle – tuna, bubu arare, shiitake creama, balsamic truffle soy, serrano peppers

Wagyu A3 Hot Rock – A3 wagyu beef served ishiyaki style with a side of spicy ponzu

Yucca Fritters – spicy tuna, avocado puree, serrano peppers, sweet chili, togarashi, cilantro

Fluke, Salmon, and Yellowtail sashimi

Ghost – tempura eel, tobanjan aioli, kaiware topped with torched salmon, sweet chili, togarashi

Hokkaido – lump crab, tempura flakes, avocado, tobanjan aioli topped with scallops, black garlic, orange chili sauce

Hamachi Heat – hamachi, kobachi sauce, avocado, cucumber topped with seared hamachi, house infused Tamari, pickled soy chili samba

Hamachi Heat

C-4 – chocolate lava cake with dulce de leche, vanilla ice cream, chocolate ganache sauce

Carrot Cake – carrot pure, cinnamon glaze, walnut brittle, pickled raisins, cream cheese icing, orange ginger ice cream

Yuzu Sorbet

Yuzu Sorbert, C-4, Carrot Cake and Kabooki Espresso Martini

Be sure to visit Kabooki Sushi’s beautiful and spacious restaurant for some of the best contemporary Japanese cuisine that you will ever have in your life.

For more information or to make a reservation, please visit: kabookisushi.com

Kabooki Sushi – East Colonial
3122 E Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32803
(407) 228-3839

Big Fin Seafood Kitchen Debuts New 3-Course $35 Supports Locals Menu till end of 2020

Ricky Ly
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Big Fin Seafood Kitchen Debuts New 3-Course $35 Supports Locals Menu till end of 2020

Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining Month may have ended on October 31 this year, but Big Fin Seafood Kitchen is going to keep the value going for locals in Orlando with a new 3-Course $35 menu going on from November 1 to December 30th, 2020.

The menu is called the “Big Fin Seafood Supports Locals” menu.

Michael Venutolo, General Manager at Big Fin tells us, “As a restaurant is located in the heart of Dr. Phillips, we know everyone has been stressed and is hurting financially and we want them to be able to escape and have a quality meal out. We will also be continuing to donate $1 for every meal sold to Feed the Need Florida to help those in need and unable to feed their families as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.”

Here is the menu:

 

Here are our favorites from the menu at Big Fin:

 

House Salad – Served with your choice of dressing.

Caesar Salad – Romaine, parmesan cheese, house made garlic croutons, dressing.

Clam Chowder (GF) – Made in house daily.

8 oz Filet – Choice filet hand cut daily, served with roasted garlic mashed potatoes and grilled asparagus.

6 oz Lobster Tail – Caught fresh off the coast of Maine, served with roasted garlic mashed potatoes and grilled asparagus.

Ooey Gooey (V) – A gooey-layered pie cake topped with whipped cream.

New York Style Cheesecake – a classic.

I *highly* recommend both of these desserts.  You will not regret it!

In Memoriam: Orlando Restaurants that Closed in 2020 So Far

Ricky Ly
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In Memoriam: Orlando Restaurants that Closed in 2020 So Far

This year, we remember the restaurants – some local places and some national places – who have left us in 2020 here in Orlando.

The restaurant industry is notorious for their high rate of closures in the first year, but this year may have pushed things along faster. According to some estimates, from the period of January to October 2019, a total of 54 restaurants closed while in 2020 in that same time period over 120 restaurants have closed.

Restaurants closed this year cited many different issues and reasons, some of which relate to the ongoing pandemic and subsequent economic effects, including rent/land lord issues, while others have been on the edge of closing and this year just accelerated things. It does appear also that a lot of the restaurants closed in the downtown Orlando location, most likely effected with the reduction of foot traffic in the area with the increase of people working from home.

A reminder to make sure to visit and support your beloved local Orlando restaurants if you are able to.

Note – some of the below restaurants have closed certain locations, but have other locations still open in the Central Florida area.

Here, We Remember…Orlando Restaurants that Closed in 2020 So Far

2018 – A Year in Review: Orlando's Food Scene and Trends | Tasty Chomps: A Local's Culinary GuideChela Tequila and Tacos (2018-2020)
183 S Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32801

Elize Restaurant (2020-2020)
55 W Church St #101, Orlando, FL 32801

4 Rivers Smokehouse (Downtown Orlando  – City Hall Location Only) (2015-2020)
400 S. Orange Ave., Orlando, FL
Other Locations Still Open

The Ramen (2018-2020)
486 N Orange Ave, Ste 8, Orlando, FL 32801

Ceviche Tapas Bar and Restaurant (2007-2020)
125 W Church St., Orlando, FL 32801

Big Time Street Food Co. (2018-2020)
805 E Washington St, Orlando, FL 32801

Wahlburgers (Downtown Orlando and Waterford Lakes locations) (2016-2020)

Marlow’s Tavern (Winter Park location only) (2013-2020)
1008 S. Orlando Avenue, Winter Park, FL
Other locations are still open (Waterford, Lee Vista, etc.)

Luma on Park (2005-2020)
290 S Park Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
Potentially re-opening else where…

IMG_4561-2

Roy’s Restaurant (2006-2020)
7760 W Sand Lake Rd
Orlando, FL 32819

MoonFish (2002-2020)
7525 W Sand Lake Rd, Orlando, FL 32819

Spoleto's Pasta Fest: Windermere | Tasty Chomps: A Local's Culinary GuideSpoleto (All Orlando Locations) (2015-2020)

Sweet Tomatoes closing for good amid coronavirus pandemic, report says

Sweet Tomatoes – closed nationally

Hopdoddy Burger Bar (2019-2020)
9101 International Dr #1208, Orlando, FL 32819

Kim Wu (????-2020)
4904 S Kirkman Rd, Orlando, FL 32811

SONY DSC

Tamarind (East Colonial location Only)
12309 E Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32826
Other Locations (Winter Park) are still open

Nakada’s Kitchen (2020-2020)
1230 W Fairbanks Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789

Belanger Bagels taking over food counter at Eola General - bungalower
Swan City Bagels in Eola General
522 E Amelia St, Orlando, FL 32803

Dandelion Communitea Cafe
618 N Thornton Ave, Orlando, FL 32803

Sette (2019-2020)
1407 N Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32804 (to re-open in a new location )

(…and maybe the most controversial one to close this year…)

Just saw this on Facebook. More 33 & Melt drama. What could go wrong when all these “patriots” get together to eat grilled cheese? : orlando

33 and Melt (2015-2020)
13790 Bridgewater Crossings Blvd #1000, Windermere, FL 34786

 

 

RAPCF presents Monster Mash: A Mask-for-Aid Ball

JC Casano
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RAPCF presents Monster Mash: A Mask-for-Aid Ball

For many, Halloween is regarded as one of the most festive times of the year. An opportunity to dress up in costumes, decorate our homes, hand out candy to trick-or-treaters, and indulge in a few spooky themed treats ourselves. But this Halloween feels a little different. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way many of us are able to work, gather, and even celebrate our holidays, Halloween included. Perhaps no industry has felt the impact quite like the restaurant and hospitality industry. And so, the Restaurant and Allied Partnership of Central Florida (RAPCF) has orchestrated the Monster Mash: A Mask-for-Aid Ball, geared towards providing assistance to participating local restaurants toward their recovery. Restaurants from across central Florida have gathered to celebrate this Halloween-themed gala, and we were lucky enough to join in.

Hosted at the beautiful Dr. Phillips House at Lake Lucerne, The Monster Mash Ball held over 30 local venders of food, beer, and wine. Patrons purchased tickets in advance online, and had the option of choosing between general admission and VIP, which included early entry, premium “swag” from participating sponsors and restaurants, and table seats in a VIP only room. In addition, VIP members received access to areas including a private “Up in Smoke Cigar and Whiskey Experience” on the rooftop patio where patrons could enjoy hand rolled cigars and sample bourbons and scotch, as well as to an “Elevate Below Premium Wine Experience”, a private wine tasting in the wine cellar of the Dr. Phillips House.

Once inside, event goers could enjoy live music, live painting, and sample delicious bites from restaurants across the city. Below are a few of our favorites.

Bites & Bubbles: Stuffed Mini-Pumpkin, filled with root vegetables, cranberry relish, duck confit, and duck fat gravy.

Outpost Kitchen: Roasted Garlic and Red Curry Anson Mills Grits with blistered tomatoes, spicy smoked gator, Cajun butter gravy, and shishito pepper Relish

Millennia Event Catering: Brûlée Pork Belly with Cheddar grits, and micro greens.

Broken Spoon: Chicken Lollipop served with papaya salad and peanut sauce.

The gala also featured several decadent dessert options for patrons to sample, including a cake-laden dessert table, and festively decorated macaroons. 

 

The Monster Mash was put on by Eddie Nickell and Nicholas Olivieri, presidents of the Restaurant and Allied Partnership of Central Florida. They started the RACPF in response to the COVID-19 crisis in order to help restaurants in the central Florida region navigate the new business environment. For more information on the RACPF, check out their website at www.racpf.org

 

 

Inside Look: A Foodie’s Guide to Taste of Epcot International Food and Wine Festival 2020 plus New Merch

Ricky Ly
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Inside Look: A Foodie’s Guide to Taste of Epcot International Food and Wine Festival 2020 plus New Merch

One of our favorite events of the year is back – in a safer, more precautionary way due to 2020 – for those who want to sip, savor, and stroll across six continents at the Taste of EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival featuring some of the best in food and drink from July 15 to November 22.

This year’s festival is understandably different from what it was in the past  (see our article on the safety precautions for COVID-19 at EPCOT this year), but the chef’s  and beverage teams at Walt Disney World continue to bring together some of the freshest ingredients, cooking techniques, and presentation to honor the diverse global cuisines as well as thoughtfully paired wine and beer with selections at each marketplace for the perfect sip.

This year, there is also a digital Festival Guidebook available on the My Disney Experience mobile app with listings of more than 20 festival-exclusive marketplaces including family fun activities like the return of Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak scavenger hunt; entertainment including the merry Mariachi Cobre and the rhythmic JAMMitors crew; plus, a peek at the limited-edition 25th anniversary merchandise for purchase.

I am so happy also that they brought back the Orange Bird Sipper souvenir cup with the fantastic orange cream shake. Cutest. Cup. Ever!

Here Are Our Favorite Delicious Offerings for the Foodie Guide to the Taste of EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival 2020:

Wine and Dine Featuring Festival Favorites

Kielbasa and Potato Pierogi with Caramelized Onions and Sour Cream, Poland – $5.50

Seafood Fisherman’s Pie, Ireland – $6.50


Spanakopita, Greece – $4.25

Apple Orchard

Caramel-Apple Popcorn – $7.00


Frozen Apple Pie (non-alcoholic), $4.00

Desserts and Champagne 

Liquid Nitro Chocolate Cake Pops with Crumbled Twix® Chocolate Bars – $4.00
Frozen S’mores (non-alcoholic) – $4.50

Mac and Cheese, Hosted by Boursin® Cheese

Buffalo Chicken Macaroni and Cheese with Boursin® Garlic and Fine Herbs Cheese Sauce topped with Carrots, Celery, and Blue Cheese Crumbles – $5.50

Lobster Macaroni and Cheese with Boursin® Garlic and Fine Herbs Cheese Sauce and Lobster Cream topped with Herbed Panko – $6.50


Macaroni and Cheese with House-made Italian Sausage and Peppers (Plant-based) – $5.50

Canada

Canadian Cheddar Cheese and Bacon Soup served with a Pretzel Roll – $5.25

Le Cellier Wild Mushroom Beef Filet Mignon with Truffle-Butter Sauce (GF) – $8.25

Citrus Blossom

Lobster Tail with Meyer Lemon Emulsion and Grilled Lemon (GF) – $8.25


Orange Cream Shake in a Souvenir Orange Bird Sipper Cup (Non-alcoholic) – $15.00

Hawai’i

Teriyaki-glazed SPAM® Hash with Potatoes, Peppers, Onions and spicy Mayonnaise – $4.25

Japan

Chirashi Sushi Flowerpot: Fresh-cut Salmon, Salmon Roe, and Spinach served over Sushi Rice with Furikake and topped with Poke Sauce – $6.75

Here is an Inside Look at the new 25th Anniversary Merchandise:


 

First Look: New Sear + Sea Restaurant Opens at JW Marriott Bonnet Creek Resort

Ricky Ly
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First Look: New Sear + Sea Restaurant Opens at JW Marriott Bonnet Creek Resort

Did you know a new hotel opened this year in the Walt Disney World area?

Just a hop, skip, and jump away from Disney Springs, the 16-floor, 516-room sleek and ultra-modern luxury JW Marriott Hotel opened in July of 2020 at the Bonnet Creek Resort.

Orlando is now home to two JW Marriott’s in our area, including the JW Marriott at Grande Lakes Orlando. Bonnet Creek is also home to nearby Wyndham Grand, Waldorf Astoria and Hilton Orlando, with the JW Marriott situated further back along Chelonia Parkway, tucked away almost like an oasis.

You can tell the architects and designers of the new JW Marriott at Bonnet Creek put time and thoughtfulness in the choices they made for the hotel – from the textures to colors, the hotel feels like walking into a posh Chanel magazine advertisement – just gorgeous.

The hotel is home to what may be one of my favorite new restaurants of 2020, Sear+Sea Woodfire Grill, the hotel’s signature culinary steakhouse featuring wood-fired creations from rich cuts of steak to the best of local seafood.

With Chef de Cuisine Alex Pyser’s creativity and deft skills in the kitchen along with the superb wood-smoke kissed dishes coming from their centerpiece wood-fired oven, I am sure Sear+Sea will become a favorite for locals and visitors alike very soon.

Chef Alex’s experiences at restaurants started with waiting tables, and then went on to attend Johnson and Wales before gaining experience in some of the nation’s best kitchens.

He most recently served as Chef De Cuisine at Siro Urban Italian Kitchen at Marriott World Center and as a signature chef at the Gaylord Texan hotel.

The flavors and dishes I had at Sear+Sea – from the roasted branzino filet to the crispy, sweet honey miso-glazed brussel sprouts and more – were uniquely prepared, tasteful and quite frankly innovative.

For starters, the crispy grilled octopus is a standout, prepared in a Japanese-inspired method with salt, and served perfectly tender with a side of potatoes, and Latin-influenced chimichurri and aji amarillo sauces. I loved the spicy tartness of the sauces that complemented the sweet octopus.

Don’t forget to order one of the signature cocktails, like the ultra-smooth Dressed in Smoke – a delicious show stopper that comes “smoked” in a glass box, featuring Old Forester 1920, Galliano L’Aperitivo, Mata Tinto vermouth, and orange oil.

You may have had steak tartare before but not like this. This luxurious, hand-cut Steak Tartare is served with a beef chicharron chip, made from super thinly sliced pieces of fried beef tripe, and mixed with  grainy mustard, smoked tomato,  creamy egg and topped with shimeji mushrooms and microgreens – just decadent and delish.

Artisanal Bread – served with rosemary & house made confit of garlic, black garlic butter

The signature wood-fired steaks available at Sear+Sea are an impressive list including Prime Angus Beef, carved for two, A5 NY strip Wagyu from Kagoshima, Japan, 8 oz Filet Mignon, 16. oz Delmonico Ribeye, 38 oz Tomahawk Steak, 14 oz Dry-Aged NY Strip, and more.

However, I chose the wood-fired Branzino filet, a delicate white fish that went exceptionally well with the accompanying crispy quinoa, preserved lemon, cilantro, capers, and cauliflower. My tip is to try to get all the elements together in one bite to get all the complexities of the sweet and salty flavors of each ingredient together.

Sides were also quite delectable.

Roasted Beets and Potatoes – a taste of fall and harvest with root vegetable theme.

Brussels Sprouts – crispy charred from the roast and drizzled in a sweet honey-miso glaze, I really loved this preparation of the Brussel sprouts, with some Japanese influences topped with furikake seasoning and dancing bonito flakes.

Mac & Cheese – I just loved this “elevated” creamy mac and cheese crafted with rigatoni pasta in lieu of traditional macaroni, with pimento cheese, and topped with crispy chunks of bacon, and a nice spice from jalapeño.

Dessert was a lovely, little Woodfire Cookie served with Vanilla bean ice cream, dolce de leche. It was a nice sweet end to the meal, and I can only imagine what desserts will be like once they are able to get a pastry chef full time back on board.

Excellent and thoughtful service from our server Eric along with the fantastic food put the experience among the best I have had in Orlando this year. There’s so much on the menu that I didn’t try that I want to go back and try as soon as possible.

Luckily for folks in Orlando, the restaurant is participating in Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining,  extended through October 31. The three-course menu for $35 is definitely a good way to introduce yourself to the new restaurant with a great value.

In addition to Sear+Sea Woodfire Grill, there are a few other existing and upcoming dining options at the JW Marriott at Bonnet Creek, including:

  • Unreserved Food Bazaar – On the bottom floor near the beautiful resort pool is Unreserved Food Bazaar, a casual, European-style marketplace offers abundant options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner including freshly baked pizzas and pretzels. In the future, this place will be a food hall similar to what you would find in major cities like New York with various food stations for guests to choose from. The Unreserved Beer Garden is a European beer garden features rose wines by the tap, local draft beers and freshly baked pizzas and pretzels. By the swimming pool, cabanas are available for rent if you are looking for a special staycation getaway with family / friends.

  • Coming Soon –  illume – Japanese – Perched on the ninth floor, this Japanese-inspired rooftop haven serves contemporary Asian cuisine and creative cocktails in a social setting, perfect for nighttime viewings of the nearby fireworks displays.

Current Safety precautions at Sear+ Sea include:

  • Cleaning & Sanitizing
  • Surfaces sanitized between seatings
  • Common areas deep cleaned daily
  • Digital, disposable or sanitized menu provided
  • Social Distancing
  • Limited number of seated diners
  • Distancing maintained in common areas
  • Extra space between tables
  • Sick staff prohibited in the workplace
  • Personal Protective Equipment
  • Waitstaff wear masks
  • Diners must wear masks unless eating or drinking

Menu

Sear + Sea at JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek
14900 Chelonia Pkwy, Orlando, FL 32821
https://www.opentable.com/r/sear-and-sea-at-jw-marriott-orlando-bonnet-creek-orlando

Inside Look: Fall on the Farm at Whisper Creek Farm, Grande Lakes Resort

Ricky Ly
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Inside Look: Fall on the Farm at Whisper Creek Farm, Grande Lakes Resort

 Grande Lakes Orlando, the sprawling 500-acre resort, home to The Ritz-Carlton Orlando and JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes, is hosting “Fall on the Farm” – a new family  friendly fall-themed outdoor event –  every Saturday and Sunday throughout the months of October and November between 10am-3pm.

We got a chance to see for ourselves this fun, intimate event recently including family friendly activities such as kid-friendly arts and crafts, corn hole games, mazes, and more.

The “Fall on the Farm” events are all taking place at Whisper Creek Farm, an 18,000 square-foot farm located on-property at Grande Lakes Orlando, open year-round to visitors for tours and culinary programming. Pro-Tip – if you are not staying at the resort, make sure to purchase tickets in advance and park in the parking lot for Whisper Creek Farm.

Our family loved the autumn-centric activities including a hayride, pumpkin picking, and pumpkin carving and painting workshops with the resort’s Olympic medalist and two-time World Champion culinary artist and carver, Victor Dagatan.

Another highlight was the farmer’s market where we could purchase – for a very reasonable price –  a taste of Grande Lakes Orlando including locally produced and homemade items such as honey, Surplus Beer, jams, BBQ sauces and rubs, popcorn and more.

Some of the wonderful food options for purchase included pulled pork and beef sliders, a hot dog stand, warm pretzels, popcorn, bagged chips, candied apple and Dipping Dots – all expertly prepared by the Grande Lakes Food and Beverage Team of course.

The Whisper Creek Farm features all the culinary bounty of Central Florida: from the on-site apiary, which produces honey for Grande Lakes Orlando’s restaurants and spa, to the vast assortment of fruits, vegetables, and herbs, to the dozens of chicken, ducks and quail, Whisper Creek Farm is one of the largest farms open to the public in the Orlando-area.

Access to Fall on the Farm is only $35 per person.

Families and friends can also schedule a photography session with The Photography Concierge to capture your fall family portrait, packages start at $30.

Reservations will be required for all guests and space is limited.

Call 407-206-2400 or email guestrelations.orlando@ritzcarlton.com to purchase tickets.

For overnight guestrooms or more information, please visit Grandelakes.com.

Inside Look: Food and Wine Weekends at La Luce in Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek

Tiffany Nguyen
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Inside Look: Food and Wine Weekends at La Luce in Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek

The acclaimed Food & Wine Weekends experience is back and happening every weekend at Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek and Waldorf Astoria Orlando from October 16 – November 22, 2020 as a complement to Epcot Food & Wine Festival – it’s a celebration of fine wine & culinary arts designed for those who truly savor the artistry of fine culinary preparations.

We were recently invited to La Luce at Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek to enjoy their 10th Annual Food & Wine Weekends special tasting menu and our experience from the food, service, to the ambiance was superb.

Food & Wine Weekends features innovative dishes from their renowned restaurants, unique food and wine pairings, Bar Du Chocolat and champagne tasting, and complimentary local craft beer and wine tastings. Each hotel has its own special offerings, so make sure to check out both.

Transportation is also provided by the sister hotels to Epcot, Walt Disney World Theme Parks and Disney Springs.

SIP, SWIRL & SAVOR – A WINE TASTING EXPERIENCE

Fridays & Saturdays from 5:30pm – 7pm, La Luce entrance

Sample an array of wines, offered as a complement to The Taste of La Luce dinner menu. Regardless of your wine knowledge, this is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy complimentary samples of wine and learn from an experienced sommelier.

BONNET CREEK BEER GARDEN

Saturdays from 4pm – 5:30pm, Hilton Lobby

Featuring an exclusive tour of Florida’s top craft breweries with complimentary samples of award-winning beers.

TASTE OF LA LUCE

Fridays & Saturdays, 6pm – 10pm

La Luce at Hilton Bonnet Creek is such a hidden gem – currently rated the #1 Italian restaurant in Orlando on Trip Advisor  and is the #2 overall restaurant in all of Orlando.

From the kitchen of La Luce, guests for the Food and Wine Weekends can enjoy an exclusive four-course menu for $55, plus tax and gratuity.  Suggested wine pairing is available for $30.  Reservation recommended.

We began with an outstanding bread service, made with house baked bread. With such a fantastic bread service, I had a hint that the four-course meal to follow at La Luce was going to be phenomenal.



Zuppa – Roasted Pepper & Tomato, Stracciatella – rich and decadent with tomato tart flavors

Bruschetta – Heirloom Tomato, Mozzarella di Bufala, Pesto – refreshing



J. de Villebois Pouilly-Fumé – a part of the fabulous wine selection

Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe – Reggiano, Pecorino Romano – lovely spaghetti pasta with cheesy reggiano and pecorino and a touch of fresh ground pepper.

Farfalle ai Funghi – Wild Mushroom, Asparagus, Truffle Cheese – loved the flavors of fall in this dish, and all the mushroom flavors.

Risotto – Seared Filet Mignon, Cipollinis, English Peas, Thyme, Reggiano, Red Wine Butter

Seared Salmon Filet – Buttermilk Potato Purée, Tomato & Chive Butter Sauce

Talley Chardonnay & Big Basin Pinot Noir



Chocolate Nutella Cake – Rich Chocolate Cake, Nutella Ganache and light Nutella Cream served with Vanilla Gelato

Sugar Bomboloni – with Amarena Cherry Gelato


Served with Donnafugata “Ben Rye” Passito, dessert wine.

Be sure to check out Food and Wine Weekends at La Luce before it ends on November 22, 2020 for some of the finest Italian served in Orlando, for a very great price. Make it a staycation while you are there.

For more information, please visit: HiltonBonnetCreek.com/food-wine

Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek
14100 Bonnet Creek Resort Ln, Orlando, FL 32821
(407) 597-3600

Inside Look: Magical Dining at Soco Thornton Park

Ricky Ly
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Inside Look: Magical Dining at Soco Thornton Park

Soco Restaurant features Southern Contemporary Cuisine with a progressive culinary approach under the direction of award -winning Executive Chef/Partner Greg Richie featuring a genuine Southern hospitality in a warm and welcoming environment in the heart of Thornton Park in Downtown Orlando.

Executive Chef/Partner Greg Richie has a long history in some of Orlando’s finest kitchens, having worked for celebrity chefs Emeril Lagasse and James Beard Award Winner Roy Yamaguchi at the original Roy’s Restaurant in Hawaii.

With Soco, he returns to his Southern roots with a contemporary interpretation of one of America’s classic cuisines. Soco was recently awarded the “Golden Spoon” from Florida Trend Magazine in 2020, which recognizes the best restaurants in the state of Florida.

Soco is currently participating in Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining through October 31, 2020, where guests can order a prix fixe menu for 3 dishes for $35, with $1 of each meal going to local charity Feed the Need Florida.

This restaurant is featuring dine-in and limited outdoor seating may be available.

Soco’s Magical Dining Menu

Appetizer

Smoked Fish Fritters
spicy chow-chow tartar sauce

Fried Green Tomatoes (GF)
crispy benton’s country ham, horseradish remoulade

Cornmeal Crisped Oysters
chicharrónes, green tomato salsa, herb cream

Main Course

Sweet Pea, Lemon-Ricotta Tart (V)
marinated heirloom cherry tomatoes, fresh herbs

Grilled Meatloaf on Garlic Mashed Potatoes
andouille sausage-smoked onion gravy, crispy onion rings, asparagus

Molasses Brined Heritage Pork Chop (GF)
confit marble potatoes, brussels sprouts, grain mustard-burgundy reduction

Dessert

Chocolate Pecan Pie
chantilly cream, “hot” chocolate sauce

Green Apple and Goat Cheese Bread Pudding
sauternes crème anglaise, dried fruit compote

Optional Enhancement

Wine Pairing +20
upgrade to a wine pairing with each of the three courses.

(GF) gluten free | (V) vegetarian | (VG) vegan – Dietary symbols indicate a dish meets this preference or can be altered to meet guest’s request. Please advise server of any food restrictions or allergies.

Bonus – Happy Hour specials – Check out their fantastic happy hour menu including deviled eggs, $6 old-fashioned cocktails and more daily. On Wednesdays, they have special half off all wine bottles and Hammerhead Oysters from Massachusetts for only $1 each.

Deviled Eggs at Soco
Old Fashioned
$1 Oysters on Wednesdays only for Happy Hour!

Soco Thornton Park
629 East Central Boulevard
Orlando, FL 32801
Phone: 407-849-1800
Visit Website

Closed Monday
Tuesday-Friday: 5pm-9pm
Saturday-Sunday: 10:30am-9pm
Brunch: Saturday & Sunday: 10:30am-3pm

 

Inside Look: New Menu Items at Outback Steakhouse

Ricky Ly
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Inside Look: New Menu Items at Outback Steakhouse

Outback Steakhouse is beefing up their newest menu launch with more options at lower prices! The updated menu features innovative flavors and new dishes, along with guest favorites to please any steak or food lover’s palate.

Aussie Twisted Ribs
Three Cheese Steak Dip

The restaurant has reintroduced classics including the Aussie Twisted Ribs and Three Cheese Steak Dip, added a new category called Steak ‘N Mate Combos that features duo plates like Center-cut Sirloin, Ribeye or Filet paired with Shrimp, Ribs, Chicken or Lobster, while also adding favorite items back on the menu like the Bloomin’ Fried Chicken.

Bloomin’ Fried Chicken

The dish features a chicken cutlet that is hand-battered in the famous Bloomin’ Onion seasoning, fried, then drizzled with the spicy signature bloom sauce, and served with two sides.

Prime Rib

The updated menu is easier to navigate and separates Outback’s famous steaks by cooking style: Seasoned & Seared, Slow-Roasted, and Char-Grilled, which offers a new thick cut Bone-In NY Strip, full of rich flavor.

If you have a sweet tooth, Outback has also launched decadent desserts like:

Butter Cake – sweet and rich butter cake topped with strawberries and house-made whipped cream

  • Butter Cake – sweet and rich butter cake topped with strawberries and house-made whipped cream
  • Chocolate Fondue Flight – warm chocolate fondue with bites of moist brownie and rich butter cake pieces, fresh seasonal berries and pineapple and house-made whipped cream.

To view the entire menu, see here, https://www.outback.com/.

Chicken Sandwich

Early Voting has started in Central Florida – Show your “I Voted” Sticker for these Local Orlando Specials

Ricky Ly
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Early Voting has started in Central Florida – Show your “I Voted” Sticker for these Local Orlando Specials

Early Voting has started in Central Florida – for Orange County, visit ocfelections.com for information about voting locations and your sample ballot. Below is a list of Early Voting locations going on as well as their hours. You can also drop off your vote by mail ballots at these locations during these times.

Image may contain: text that says 'ORANGE COUNTY, FLORIDA ? R ORANGE VOTE (I DID!) COUNTY, FLORIDA'

Here are some Local Orlando Specials with your “I Voted Stickers” 2020:

MX Taco – FREE MARGARITAS ON ELECTION DAY!

207 N Bumby Ave, Orlando, FL 32803
https://mxtacorestaurant.com/

Small margarita when you wear your “voted sticker” or show a foreign ID in support of our democratic elections. LARGE MARGARITA FOR FREE if you come with your friend from an opposition party (in perspective wares) because we ultimately are one Union. “E PLURIBUS UNUM” “OUT OF MANY, ONE”

Black Rooster Taqueria “20% Off entire order” thru Election Day
1323 N Mills Ave, Orlando, FL 32803
http://www.blackroostertaqueria.com/

Black Rooster “20% Off entire order” with I Voted sticker all through early voting Oct 19-Nov 1 since they are closed on Election Day so their staff can go vote or volunteer with their new paid holiday! Black Rooster is a participant in Time to Vote, a non-partisan campaign organized in 2018 offering various ways to ensure their employees can participate in local and national elections. The U.S. has one of the lowest voter-turnout rates among first-world nations,” says Black Rooster co-owner Juliana Calloway in a recent Orlando Sentinel article. “And I don’t think people should have to choose between a paycheck and exercising their right to vote.”

Bao’s Castle – Free Churros through October with “I Voted Sticker” thru Election Day
45 W Crystal Lake St Suite 180, Orlando, FL 32806
https://www.baoscastle.com/

Bao’s Castle – free churros with I Voted sticker now through Election Day – they are located blocks away from the Orange County Supervisor of Elections office if you are headed that way. Excellent Baos also.

The Pastrami Project through Election Day
825 N Magnolia Ave, Orlando, FL 32803
http://www.pastramiproject.com/The%20Pastrami%20Project/Home.html

You can early vote just across the street from The Pastrami Project at the Mark Street Senior Center from 8am to 8pm. Come order a meal and show them your “I voted sticker ” for a FREE DRINK or BLACK & WHITE COOKIE. One per person, until election day. 10am-2pm Monday-Friday

Farah & Farah giving away $1000 of Coffee at Downtown CREDO North Quarter on Election Day Nov 3
885 N Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32801
https://downtowncredo.com/locations/north-quarter
Farah & Farah, a leading personal injury law firm Orlando, is launching  Vote Boldly, a campaign created to increase and encourage voter engagement in Orlando and key cities in Florida. This year, it’s crucial that we all exercise out right to vote — via mail or in person.

On November 3, enjoy a free cup of coffee on Farah & Farah at Downtown CREDO’s North Quarter Orlando location. All you have to do is show your “I Voted” sticker or proof that they voted by mail (a photo or verbal commitment is sufficient) to receive a free cup of your choice!

  • Early voting begins October 19, in Florida so if you vote early, save your sticker!
  • To celebrate and help power voters through Election Day, Farah & Farah has created a $1,000 tab at both Downtown CREDOs for the community to stop by with their I Voted sticker or proof of mail in vote (verbal confirmation is just fine)! This is for one day only – November 3.  Stop by any CREDO location and enjoy your cup up choice up to $5!

#VOTEBOLDY
Facebook: https://www.instagram.com/farah_and_farah/
Instagram: https://www.facebook.com/FarahAndFarah

Downtown CREDO
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downtowncredo
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/downtowncredo/

Image may contain: food and indoor4 Rivers Smokehouse on Election Day

Complimentary patriotic-themed cookie to anyone with an “I Voted” sticker on Election Day Tuesday Nov. 3.

Image may contain: food and indoor

The New Standard on Election Day

One free happy hour drink 4-7 p.m. for guests with an “I Voted!” sticker on Election Day Tuesday Nov 3 –  includes beer, wine or any craft cocktail from the happy hour menu.

Image may contain: food

Hot Krust Panini Kitchen thru Election Day
8015 Turkey Lake Rd #200, Orlando, FL 32819
https://www.hotkrust.com/

Free fountain drink or chocolate chunk cookie with purchase when “I voted “ sticker is shown!!

The Donut Patch
1333 W Broadway St, Oviedo, FL 32765
https://thedonutpatch.com/

Free Donut with I Voted Stickers!

Inside Look: New 2020 Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic: Limited Edition

Tiffany Nguyen
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Inside Look: New 2020 Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic: Limited Edition

We were invited to Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort to experience the first Food & Wine Classic: Limited Edition and we enjoyed our evening walking around a socially distant event trying unlimited samples of amazing food and beverage offerings.

The Food & Wine Classic: Limited Edition featured fan favorites in a more intimate setting with limited capacities and implemented the latest in responsible food delivery safety measures and social distancing procedures to create an entertaining, unforgettable, mouthwatering experience.

Among the protocols implemented were: temperature check at entrance for all attendees, plexiglass walls for all food service, all cast members wearing PPE, socially distanced reserved table for each group, touchless menus and clearly marked social distancing signage.

After a successful weekend and with strong interest from guests, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort has added a second Food & Wine Classic: Limited Edition II taking place on Friday, Oct. 30, 5:30pm – 8:00pm.

Here is an Inside Look at the recent fabulous Saturday October 17th Sip, Savor and Stay Saturday at Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort, including some of our Favorite Bites:

Food Stations:

Shula’s Steakhouse

Roasted Linz Heritage Black Angus Beef Tenderloin, Mashed Potatoes, Roasted Carrots (Gluten Free)

Kimonos

Dragon Roll, Crispy Shrimp, Yellow Fin Tuna, Haas Avocado, Kewpie Mayonnaise (Dairy Free)

Smokin’ D’s BBQ

Handcrafted Smoked Pork Belly, Apple Butter Bourbon Barbecue Sauce, Butter Grits, Shave Radish, Roasted Chestnut Purée (Gluten Free)

Il Mulino


Handmade Orecchiette Pasta, Roasted Broccoli Rabe, Italian Sausage, Italian Hot Pepper

Cabana Bar & Beach Club

Vegetarian Rice Bowl, Roasted Organic Vegetables, Seasoned Sushi Rice, Curry Sauce, Tempura Crunch (Dairy Free, Vegan)

Carnival Corner

Grill Beef Sausage Sandwich, Peppers, Onions, Red Hots

Two-Time World Champion Chef Laurent Branlard Dessert Station

Milk Chocolate Peanut Butter And Jelly Dome, Chocolate Mousse, Strawberry Gelée, Chunky Peanut Butter Ganache, Brioche Chip

Apple Crumb Cake, Almond Pain De Gene, White Chocolate Ganache, Warm Caramelized Apples, Candied Almond

Cherry Basil Lemon Shot, Cherry Compote, Lemon Basil Cream, Biscotti Cookie

Here are photos of some of the beverage stations:

Unlimited beer, wine, spirit tastings (from over 40 varieties around the world!)

Live entertainment by the band Star Time:

Food & Wine Classic: Limited Edition II will be limited to 200 participants and guests can purchase tickets to the event as a one-night room package starting at $395 or for $110 with no room reservation required.  To book your ticket, contact the resort daily 9am-4pm at 407-934-1609.

For more information, visit www.swandolphin.com/sip-savor-stay

The Dark Séance: A Haunted Dinner Experience at The Orlando Forum of Fear with Chef Chuck Cobb of Git-N-Messy BBQ

Tiffany Nguyen
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The Dark Séance: A Haunted Dinner Experience at The Orlando Forum of Fear with Chef Chuck Cobb of Git-N-Messy BBQ

The Orlando Forum of Fear on International Drive is pleased to announce the opening of the multi-sensory event, “The Dark Seance: A Haunted Dinner Experience,” with culinary preparations by Chef Chuck Cobb of Git-N-Messy BBQ, as seen on “Live with Kelly and Ryan”.

When guests arrive for The Dark Séance, they will be escorted to a Victorian dining room where they will be seated only with their immediate party.  The floorplan of the room will change depending on the reservations made for that evening to ensure six-foot distancing between tables for public safety.  The room is full of surprises, and no one is really sure what might happen during the course of the evening.  What is for sure is that guests are in for some delicious dining by Git-N-Messy BBQ’s Chef Chuck Cobb.

Guests will be contacted prior to their reservation time to make their dinner selection and can also opt for several upgrades, including two upgraded appetizers: Shrimp Cocktail with Horseradish Sauce for $11.95, Seafood-Stuffed Mushrooms for $11.95, or a Surf & Turf entrée upgrade, which includes a six-ounce Filet Mignon with four-ounce lobster tail for $24.95.

This is an intense theatrical experience and no one under 16 will be admitted unless under direct supervision of a consenting adult.  Each week ‘Mediums’ and hosts will share a different story and the performance will change allowing guests who survive the first time to return again and again. The only way in is from the other side.

Reservations are required for the two seatings (6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.) and tickets start at $87.50.  The admission price includes a four-course meal, entertainment and a trip through the Tunnel of the Damned haunted maze created and executed by Halloween Horror Nights legends Patrick Braillard and Kim Grommol.

Festive spooky cocktail attire is encouraged so I arrived dressed as Wednesday Addams.

Chef Chuck Cobb did an exceptional job with dinner service.  My dining companion and I were satisfied with all of our dishes from start to finish.  Dinner photos below:

Blue Cheese Wedge Salad with crumbled bacon, tomato and house-made blue cheese dressing.

Seafood Stuffed Mushrooms

Fried Calamari with pepperoncini-lemon butter dipping sauce.

Cedar Plank Salmon with roasted vegetables and sun dried tomato risotto.

Surf and Turf – 6-oz filet mignon with a 4-oz lobster tail seasonal vegetables and roasted fingerling potatoes.

Raspberry-Passionfruit Lava Cake

Reservations for The Dark Séance can be made at DarkSeance.com or at TunnelOfTheDamned.com.

The Orlando Forum of Fear
6362 International Drive
Orlando, FL 32819

Inside Look: Game Day with TooJay’s Deli

Ricky Ly
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Inside Look: Game Day with TooJay’s Deli

Growing up in Palm Beach County, TooJay’s had a special place in my heart for being a great local Jewish deli with fantastic quality sandwiches – I especially loved their Reuben, made with hot corned beef, sauerkraut and Swiss cheese with homestyle Russian dressing served on rye bread grilled to perfection.

Though the Waterford Lakes location is currently closed, I am glad to hear the TooJay’s at Colonialtown is still open.

Whether you are cheering for the Knights, the Gators, the Jags, the Bucs, or any of the many college and pro football teams in Florida, or outside of Florida, this football season you can up your game day game with some party platters from TooJay’s Deli.

We were invited to try their new party platter out – now available for delivery on orders of $50 or more in a certain radius of the TooJay’s location. Check with you nearest location when opting for delivery.

TooJay’s Deli is offering convenient Game Day catering this football season including:

  • Party platters for at-home tailgate parties of any size feature an assortment of sandwiches or wraps served with Cole slaw or potato salad and pickles.
  • In addition to popular sandwich choices such as Turkey Breast, Roast Beef, Ham and Cheese and Tuna Salad, other catering selections include hot entrées, fresh salads and delectable made-from-scratch dessert trays.
  • Contactless curbside pick-up and delivery is available.
  • Contact your nearest location for delivery details

TooJay’s Game Day Bundle includes
• Assorted Signature Sandwich Platter
• Potato Salad
• Cole Slaw
• TooJay’s Sweets Platter
• Pickles
• TooJay’s Deli Mustard
• Plates, utensils and napkins

Serves 8-10

Don’t forget to get dessert also:

TooJay’s Sweets Platter
A combination of fresh baked cookies, brownies and Tollhouse Squares, garnished with fresh strawberries.

For the nearest location, visit: https://www.toojays.com/

Inside Look at Streamsong Resort: A Foodie’s Guide

Tiffany Nguyen
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Inside Look at Streamsong Resort: A Foodie’s Guide

We were invited to Streamsong Resort in Polk County (about 1.5 hours from Orlando) to experience the resort’s food, spa and lake view hotel room and our weekend trip was nothing short of remarkable.

The shuttle runs every 15 minutes. We used them to commute to the restaurants on the golf course.

Streamsong Resort is Florida’s best kept secret, it is a hidden gem, literally and figuratively.  The 7-year-old resort is 16,000 acres and the land was formerly used for mining phosphate also known as P205; which has become the name of one of their restaurants.

The intimate haven features 228 spacious, modern guest rooms; 25,000 sq. ft. of flexible conference and function space, with distinctive outdoor venues.  You will find guests spending time on property utilizing the luxury golf courses, bass fishing on the serene lakes, shooting sporting clays, practicing archery, going for a walk on the nature trails, dining at the restaurants, or sunbathing at the lakeside infinity pool.

Golf lovers will experience a new standard at the resort’s three critically-acclaimed luxury golf courses Streamsong Red, Blue, and Black; the only destination in the world where three distinct golf courses were designed by four legendary architects.

Aside from the sheer beauty of the resort, what stood out to me most (and got the most airtime on my social media platforms) was the food.

The Streamsong team mentioned how more people from the surrounding areas were coming to the resort solely to enjoy the food, seek refuge in beauty and nature for the night or weekend and escape their cancelled vacation blues.

Locals do not have to go far to experience extraordinary cuisine while feeling like they have left Florida.  Led by Executive Chef Michael Ford, the resort boasts five unique restaurants:

  • Restaurant Fifty-Nine – USDA Prime cuts and seafood
  • Bone Valley Tavern – gastropub
  • SottoTerra – fine Italian
  • P2O5 – casual American
  • Fragmentary Blue – a rooftop lounge with stunning views (currently closed due to COVID-19)

After we checked in, we walked into our room and were pleasantly surprised with a charcuterie board patiently waiting for us to be eaten.  The tasty charcuterie board was made with duck prosciutto, compressed melon, cantaloupe, Frangelico chocolate truffles, Gorgonzola & balsamic strawberry, salted Marcona almonds and came with a bottle of chilled Luigi Baudana Dragon 2018 wine.

After getting settled in we went downstairs to P205, the casual American restaurant located next to the main lobby, to enjoy cocktails and appetizers.

Conch Fritters – lime aioli, sriracha remoulade.

Charcuterie Board with 3 different meats, all cured in house.
Pork Lonzino – air cured for about 30 days and wet cured for about 8 days
Duck Country Ham – salted for 2-3 days and then air dried for about a week.
Tasso Ham – made with pork shoulder, smoked and seasoned with traditional cajun seasonings.

Carmenrena – A blend of both Blanco and Añehjo El Tesoro tequila and sweet and bitter botanicals from Campari and Sweet Vermouth brings Mexico to Italy in this spirit forward cocktail.

Kyoto Old Fashioned – A cocktail that Japan’s third largest city would be proud of.  Suntory, Toki Whiskey perfectly complimented by a touch of Yuzu syrup and Angostura bitters to balance this clean cocktail.

Indian River – Sip Smith London Dry Gin combines with a bittersweet shrub made from grapefruit from Florida’s Indian River, sweetened with basil, a touch of lime and Elderflower undertones.  Elegant and refreshing.

Then we went down to the lower level for dinner at SottaTerra – the resort’s restaurant that is under Earth.

Bread with roasted red pepper and pesto butter and by request you can order olive oil & balsamic vinegar dipping sauce that includes the signature Streamsong logo.

Tuna Crudo – sushi grade tuna, capers, lemon, shallot, basil, evoo.  We really enjoyed this appetizer, it was fresh and meaty.

My dining companion ordered the Roasted Branzino – polenta, confit tomatoes, asparagus, lemon and I ordered the Pan Seared Prime Ribeye – roasted fingerlings, mushrooms, arugula, aged balsami.

My ribeye was cooked perfectly medium rare and packed a ton of flavor.

For dessert we ordered the Gelato Trio – dark chocolate, Madagascar vanilla bean, and pistachio.

It was AMAZING!  Wow, I wish I could eat this for dessert after every meal!

The next morning we had breakfast at Restaurant Fifty-Nine – the epitome of a luxurious seafood and steakhouse.  My dining companion ordered the Brisket Hash & Egg Skillet – smoked beef brisket, crispy potatoes, onions, fried eggs, toast and I ordered the Steak & Eggs Bagel – country fried steak, fried egg, pimento cheese that came with breakfast tots.

It was the best bagel sandwich that I have ever had in my life and one of my favorite meals during our trip.

After lunch we headed back to the resort for our spa appointment at the grotto-style AcquaPietra spa.

That deep tissue massage was everything!

The resort’s European-style grotto spa was constructed to look like elephant legs dipped in an ocean.

After our spa appointment we headed to lunch at Bone Valley Tavern.

Bone Valley Tavern is the resort’s most popular dining experience led by Chef David.

East Coast-West Coast Club Wrap – turkey, avocado, bacon, ham, pimento cheese, lettuce, tomato, herb aioli.

The wrap was refreshing and provided so much texture contrast and pops of flavor.

Chef’s Catch Fish Sandwich – grilled local Florida hogfish snapper, lettuce, tomato, remoulade sauce.

Unbelievable!  This fish sandwich was addictive!  Hands down my favorite meal at the resort!

After lunch we headed back home although we did not want to leave, we were having so much fun on property.  Next time we will have to book a longer stay.  I would like to thank Streamsong Resort for generously hosting us.  We had an amazing time and we could not have asked for a better weekend escape.  Everything was perfection.  Be sure to check out Streamsong Resort soon for an unforgettable experience!  You will love it!

Streamsong Resort
1000 Streamsong Dr, Bowling Green, FL 33834
(888) 294-6322
streamsongresort.com

 

Foodie’s Guide to Halloween at Universal Orlando Resort 2020

Kayla Springmyer
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Foodie’s Guide to Halloween at Universal Orlando Resort 2020

Spooky treats and festive eats have made an appearance all across Universal Orlando Resort. Halloween Horror Nights may be cancelled (we are still mourning the loss), but Halloween is still very much alive at the parks. To get your horror fix, you can visit the themed Tribute Store, walk through two daytime haunted houses or snack on some of the many haunted bites available now throughout the resort. Here is our Foodie’s Guide to Halloween at Universal Orlando Resort 2020.

Foodie’s Guide to Halloween at Universal Orlando Resort 2020

On-Site Resorts

HHN Icon cocktails celebrating some of horror’s very best are available at select on-site Universal Orlando Resort hotels. Try The Director, made with Ketel One Vodka, Kahlua, Amaretto and Heavy Cream. Or, take a chance on The Chance, featuring Bacardi Superior Rum, Aperol, Sour, orange bitters, soda and an orange slice. Both HHN Icon cocktails are available at the Velvet Bar and Beach Club at Hard Rock Hotel Orlando, Bula at Loews Royal Pacific Resort, the Swizzle Lounge at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort and the Sand Bar at Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites.

Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort

Voodoo Doughnuts

This year, CityWalk’s Voodoo Doughnuts is selling two Halloween-themed treats. The “Jack” Doughnut (pictured below) is filled with sweet raspberry Bavarian cream. You can also try the enormous Pumpkin Spice Specialty Doughnut, which features a pumpkin spice filling that is deliciously reminiscent of homemade pumpkin pie.

Skeleton Bar in Cafe La Bamba

Head to Cafe La Bamba in Universal Studios Florida for a new Halloween themed bar experience. Choose between three cocktails: the Mango Inferno, the Lou-Garou and the Vampires Curse. Non-alcoholic drinks, like the Frozen Candy Corn are available at the Skeleton Bar as well. You can also find a variety of themed food, like the Bloody Charred Tandoori Skewer, Vegan Jack’D Up Mac and Screamin’ For S’mores Fries. For the Halloween Horror Nights classic Pizza Fries, you’ll have to head over to Louie’s Italian Restaurant.

Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort

TODAY Cafe

Dylan & Cal’s Chocolate Chip Zucchini Bread is available now at TODAY Cafe in Universal Studios Florida, but only for a limited time. These new seasonal baked goods are fluffy and light, and as tasty as you’d imagine. But, our favorite part is definitely the adorable fall shapes on each piece of bread, from festive pumpkins to squirrels.

Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort

Food Trucks

You can order more horror-themed snacks at the food trucks located near the two haunted houses in Universal Studios. Some of our foodie favorites include the Twisted Coil Taters, Franken Fried Chicken, Funnel Brains and foot-long hot dogs. Menu items rotate, so be sure to stop by on your next visit to see if any exciting new Halloween treats are available.

Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort

HHN Tribute Store

The Halloween Horror Nights Tribute Store is always a must-visit during the Halloween season. This year, you can stroll through rooms themed to Frankenstein’s Monster, HHN Icons like Jack the Clown, a creepy attic and the cult-favorite Beetlejuice. In the Beetlejuice room, a monstrous variety of treats and desserts are available to purchase. Choose from Vegan Brownie Skulls to Beating Heart Sour Cherry Gummies, or even a striped sandworm-themed hot dog. There are so many spooky bites to choose from, you’ll have a hard time picking a favorite.

Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort

Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort
Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort
Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort
Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort
Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort

This year, guests of all ages are encouraged to wear their favorite Halloween costumes while visiting Universal Orlando Resort, to fully embrace the spooky season. All-new interactive activities have been introduced as well, like the Scarecrow Stalk and trick-or-treating at Islands of Adventure. For more information about Halloween at Universal, visit UniversalOrlando.com.

Interview with a Food Travel Planner: Q and A with Bryce Morrison of Travel Tuesdays for Foodie Fans Podcast

Ricky Ly
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Interview with a Food Travel Planner: Q and A with Bryce Morrison of Travel Tuesdays for Foodie Fans Podcast

Travel Tuesdays for Foodie Fans is live on Facebook every Tuesday at 6:30pm ET with new guests each week, discussing foodie destinations, cocktails, kitchens & more! Then, the edited podcast is released the following Tuesday morning. We interview founder Bryce Morrison, who along with wife Carla, founded the Travel Tuesdays for Foodie Fans podcast. The couple are also travel planners and they tell us a little bit about the landscape of travel during these unprecedented times.

Q and A with Bryce Morrison of Travel Tuesdays for Foodie Fans Podcast

Tasty Chomps: What inspired you to start the Travel Tuesdays for Foodie Fans podcast?

Carla and I have enjoyed searching for the next best eatery or fine dining establishment both in our back yard and every time we travel. With our Cruise Planners travel franchise focused on foodie adventures, we thought the podcast would be a great way to pool information from guests to help us and our clients find even more great options!

What are some topics on some past podcast shows? Upcoming topics?

Every episode is different because every guest is different. From a Team USA athletics coach to a flooring professional from Brooklyn, our guests have a wide variety of foodie interests. We have spoken with lifelong cooks, bartenders, and startup restaurateurs. There have been financial professionals, Cutco representatives, and realtors.

The topics range from personal cooking experience and disasters to favorite cocktails and foodie destinations. Our future guests are even bringing vegan and vegetarian experiences with them!

What is your main work in food and travel planning like?

For individuals looking to use our services, we start by getting to know them. Our early focus is in developing a sense of their likes and dislikes; previous travel successes and failures; and their overall level of adventure both in food and experiences. Then we have some fun! Once we have an idea of who the client is, we go to work creating a fantastic travel plan specifically for them. Next, we work closely with the client to add or remove parts of the plan, upgrade or downgrade portions, or even look for other vendors that may better align with their vision. We like to think we are pretty intuitive; but, ultimately, nobody knows their desires better than the client themselves!

We also plan group trips. We have done several team travel experiences for businesses. These can be as team-building experiences or just to reward employees for a job well done. We also take groups on pleasure trips. Currently, we have a cruise in October 2021 to raise money for cancer research and a foodie vacation for spring 2022 in the works!

 How has travel changed in the past year with the pandemic? What does travel look like now?

Many things have changed, up to and including, a complete halt to all travel experiences outside of the United States. In many cases, even domestic travel ended for a period of time. The truth is though, that many are now traveling again. It may not seem like it from our friend’s newsfeeds; but, many of them just aren’t sharing that they just came back from Las Vegas, Cancun, or The Hamptons. Travel is definitely more centered around domestic experiences at the moment; but, ninety percent of our 2021 bookings are for international travel and cruises.

What are some services you offer for travelers?

We help travelers from start to finish, as much as they would like for us to do so. If a traveler has no idea where to start, we can help get their creative juices flowing. But, many travelers do like the planning part of their vacation; and, we have no desire to inhibit their imagination. If they can dream it, we will help them book it. From rental cars to cruises to all-inclusives and elaborate land vacations, we have the resources to create the perfect trip. We also offer travel protection and can help clients understand when and why it is important.

Where a travel advisor really shines, though, is once the travel begins. Though many people like to plan a vacation, nobody enjoys planning the replacement transportation when the train derails, or the special accommodations when a member of your party breaks their leg in two places three days before departure!

We don’t care if you are on the other side of the world and need to call or text us at 3am, we’re still working for you to ensure your trip is the best possible bang for your buck. In many cases, our vendor partners will have already alerted us and you will first learn about changes when we reach out to you!

 What is your ideal food and wine itinerary for a visitor to Orlando? How about to Europe?

Much of this is subjective and comes with my personal experiences; but, for me, I believe no foodie trip to Central Florida would be complete without two things: Disney & Park Avenue in Winter Park. For Disney, we could begin without admission to any of the parks by visiting Disney Springs for an appetizer and glass of wine at Wine Bar George. My preference would be the Saganaki On Fire paired with one of “George’s Finds”, Jorge Ordóñez, “Botani” 2017. This Muscat is not too pricey at only $10 a glass and fits well with the dish.

From there, I would enjoy a beautiful boat ride on Disney’s complimentary transportation system to Port Orleans – Riverside for dinner at Boatwright’s Dining Hall. The Prime Rib and Shrimp and Grits are both fantastic options. I would likely choose the steak and pair it with a nice malbec (my personal wine of choice for most steaks).

Feeling extra fun this evening? Hop on a horse drawn carriage to head over to Port Orleans – French Quarter and finish the evening out with the best beignets this side of New Orleans (except perhaps Savannah, Georgia; but, that’s another vacation!).

Of course, if you can plan a trip to Disney that includes staying on property and admission to the parks, there is nothing better for a foodie like me than doing so during Epcot’s Food and Wine Festival! Taste foods from around the world and experience enormous variety in just a single visit. Of course, there is so much to offer, you’ll want to spend several days at the festival.

And, when you are ready to have a great sit-down meal, you must visit Le Cellier Steakhouse in the Canadian Pavilion. I’ve enjoyed great meals in most of the restaurants in Epcot; but, this hidden gem owns a special place in my heart. Perhaps I am biased because Carla and I had our first meal as a married couple and have celebrated several anniversaries at Le Cellier. Perhaps it is because we have never had less than five star servers. Or, maybe the food is just that amazing. Regardless, Le Cellier Steakhouse would definitely have a role in my Disney foodie getaway!

Park Avenue in Winter Park is a great place for foodies to enjoy an evening of shopping, food, and wine. Carla and I almost alway begin at The Wine Room with a loaded card ready to sample from dozens of automated wine dispensers. Cheese boards and flatbreads tend to be our go-to starters on these evenings. From there, Bosphorous with their great Turkish cuisine or Boca for locally sourced American food would be great options for dinner. Many times, we will start at Boca with some fantastic Blistered Shishito Peppers or their Fried Green Tomatoes (note that their menu changes frequently) and end at Bosphorous with a decadent dessert of Kunefe. I also like to have a glass of their Sandeman 20 – Year Tawny port wine whenever I visit. There’s also other worthy restaurant choices on Park Avenue in Winter Park that one could try. We inevitably end up buying spices, olive oils or balsamic vinegars, or kitchen goods from the many retailers along the easy walk from one end of the shopping district to the other; and, there are often opportunities to stop and watch live music in the park across the street or catch one of the many artists that choose to perform their craft here.

For Europe, I’m partial to spending time in France. Though I do prefer Rome over Paris, it is the French countryside that has captured my heart and keeps me going back to France. Le Havre is also nice on the coast; but, my perfect trip involves a town called Grenoble. With its idyllic location at the base of the French Alps, Grenoble is just over an hour to many fantastic foodie destinations such as Lyon; the Rhone Valley; and Geneva, Switzerland. The Chartreuse Monastery where the herbal spirit was invented and is still owned by two monks is less than an hour away. Being so close to the Alps, I would definitely enjoy ziplining and the amazing ropes course. I would also partake in a restaurant takeover where the chef and owner teaches a small group his signature dishes with copious amounts of French wine followed by lively dinner conversation with copious amounts of French wine!

 Where can people follow you on social media and listen to your podcast?

The podcast is available as TT4FF on all the major (and many minor) podcast sources such as Spotify, Apple Music, and more. We also have the video of our interviews here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLDnyhUfdbgL6Ii_kynHWNg?view_as=subscriber
The easiest way to find all of our links is at our website: foodandwinecruiseplanners.com under “Podcast” in the dropdown menu. On Facebook, we can be found at: https://www.facebook.com/TT4FF and https://www.facebook.com/FoodandWineCruisePlanners
We’re also on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/tt4ff.podcast/ and https://www.instagram.com/foodandwinecruiseplanners/

Inside Look: Chill Out at Mellow Mushroom

Tacy Callies
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Inside Look: Chill Out at Mellow Mushroom

By Tacy Callies

A trip to Mellow Mushroom is a relaxing way to unwind at the end of the workweek. Al fresco dining on a recent Friday night at the East Colonial location featured perfect weather. If you’re not comfortable with indoor dining during the pandemic, or you want to bring your dog to dinner, the patio’s the perfect place.

This year, alcohol sales are up five percent at Mellow Mushroom and the new, proprietary cocktail recipes meet customer demands. The restaurant’s full bar of beer, wine, cocktails and house-made non-alcoholic beverages is designed to pair with the its famous stone baked pizza and other menu items.

Jam ‘n Juice
Mule it Over

We started the meal with cocktails. Fans of Mellow Mushroom’s Jingle Juice, which was previously only a seasonal item during the holidays, will be happy to know it is now a permanent menu item. Our friendly server, Nae, told us it was made permanent due to its popularity with customers. Now known as Jam ’n Juice ($8.50), the drink is a bright red blend of bourbon, aperol, cherry, cranberry and lime. The Mule it Over ($8.50), which had a strong herby flavor, featured Ketel One, ginger beer and fresh lime.

Mellow Mushroom recently introduced six new beverages, including more margarita options and sure to be fan favorite, the Peach Buzz, made with Jameson Irish Whiskey, Monin Peach Puree, fresh lime, topped with 18.21 Earl Grey Bitters and garnished with a custom sugar blend made with Earl Grey tea and citrus. 18.21 Bitters is a fellow Atlanta-based company that is owned and operated by Missy and Kristin Koefod. Missy’s history with Mellow Mushroom dates back to when she was a college student and worked as a delivery driver for one of the Atlanta restaurants.

Three new versions of Mellow’s classic RB Margarita are now available, with choice of Blanco, Reposado or Anejo tequila. All three versions are made with Casamigos Tequila and Bauchant Orange Liqueur, a boutique cognac-based liqueur from France.

The new cocktails feature specialty garnishes from Las Vegas-based gourmet garnish company, Dress the Drink™, and all of the menu items use natural juices, syrups, and no artificial ingredients.

Other signature cocktails include:

  • Sunset in Paradise – Bacardi Superior Rum, Monin Coconut and Pomegranate Syrups, Pineapple and Fresh Sour, garnished with Toasted Coconut and a Fresh Pineapple Wedge
  • Golden Goose – Grey Goose Vodka, Monin Golden Turmeric Syrup, Fresh Lemon, Pineapple and Fever-Tree Ginger Beer, garnished with Pineapple Leaves & a Fresh Lemon Wheel
  • Jam N’Juice – Maker’s Mark Bourbon, Aperivio, Cherry, Cranberry, and Fresh Lime, garnished with a Black Cherry & a Fresh Orange Wedge
  • Mule It Over – Ketel One, Fever-Tree Ginger Beer, and Fresh Lime

Closeup of half the Stuffed Portobello

Being at Mellow Mushroom, it seemed only appropriate to order a mushroom dish. So, we tried the Stuffed Portobello, a special “Local to Your Mellow” item on the menu. One of the lower-calorie (260 calories) choices on the menu, it was a nice light dish to start off the meal. Stuffed with artichoke hearts, cheese, tomatoes and spinach, the mushroom cap was served on a bed of greens and drizzled with balsamic glaze. For $7.99, it was a small portion, but tasty, nonetheless. It’s a great option for vegetarians.

Sweet Thai Chili Oven-Roasted Wings

Next up we had a half-order of the Sweet Thai Chili Oven-Roasted Wings ($5.99). The five flats (no drums) came with a choice of blue cheese or ranch (we got both) along with carrots and celery. The sauce had a nice kick without being too fiery. The wings stood up well on their own without really needing the ranch or blue cheese. However, dipping the wings in the dressing provided an additional layer of flavor that I enjoyed.

Calzone at Mellow Mushroom
Pretzel bites
Funky Q Chicken thin-crust pizza
Pepperoni Pizza at Mellow Mushroom
Mellow Mushroom’s HOUSE SPECIAL GF – Mellow red sauce base with mozzarella, pepperoni, sausage, ground beef, ham, applewood smoked bacon, mushrooms, black olives, roma tomatoes, green peppers, and onions. Topped with extra mozzarella.

We took advantage of a Yelp offer for free pretzel bites with any pizza order and chose the Funky Q Chicken thin-crust pizza. Nae warned us the pizza would take about 45 minutes, but it was worth the wait. The crust was crisp, exactly the way I like it. I am not a fan of floppy, foldable pizza (sorry, New Yorkers). We ordered the small size ($13.99), which is just right for two people — if you are also having appetizers, drinks and dessert.

The pretzel bites ($8.19) tasted more like pizza bread than pretzel bread. A heaping portion was generously dusted with parmesan and served with beer cheese and marinara sauce.

Mary Jane’s Triple Chocolate Brownie

We ended the meal with Mary Jane’s Triple Chocolate Brownie ($3.19) because I needed my daily chocolate fix. It satisfied the craving.

Mellow Mushroom has three Orlando-area locations: East Orlando (11680 E. Colonial Drive), Winter Park (2015 Aloma Ave.) and I-Drive (10725 International Drive).

 

 

 

Inside Look: UNO’s Pizzeria and Grill Introduces New Comfort Classic Dishes

JC Casano
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Inside Look: UNO’s Pizzeria and Grill Introduces New Comfort Classic Dishes

There’s nothing that says comfort like Autumn, and what better way to cozy up than with some sure-fire comfort food. UNO’s Pizzeria and Grill has been serving up fan favorites including their world famous signature deep dish pizza since 1943, and this fall, they have just announced a list of new and revamped menu items. We got an insider look at the new things they’re cooking up.

We started our evening at UNO’s with one of their new appetizers: the Caprese salad. Thick cut slices of tomato and mozzarella topped with sliced cherry and plum tomatoes, drizzled in lemon olive oil and a balsamic glaze, and garnished with fresh cut basil.

Our second appetizer was the Cheesy Garlic Bread, a party-size pizza dough topped with garlic and UNO’s three-cheese blend and served with housemade marinara. We recommend being adventurous and trying it with fresh basil pesto.

For our main entrees, we tried their new Chicken Parmesan Sub, hand-breaded chicken tossed in panko bread crumbs and Romano, served with their signature Marinera, fresh, melted mozzarella, and a healthy garnish of fresh cut basil, all served in a toasted sub roll lightly brushed with garlic and Parmesan.

We couldn’t come to UNO’s without trying one of their world famous deep-dish pizzas. After all, it’s what UNO’s is best known for and has been serving since Ike Sewell originally opened UNO’s and invented his signature deep dish pies in 1943. Though they have a variety to choose from, we went with their newest deep dish: the Meatball and Ricotta Deep Dish Pizza. This particular iteration includes Italian style beef and pork meatballs, ricotta cheese, fresh mushrooms, fresh mozzarella, housemade marinar, and pecorino romano. Cut thick, and served right out out the oven. Just as Ike intended.

We finished our night here in the most decadent way possible: with a huge deep dish brownie sundae and cocktails. The deep dish brownie sundae was made with Ghirardelli chocolate chips, baked in a deep dish pan and topped with vanilla ice cream, chocolate sauce and whipped cream. 

Our nightcap cocktails were a Peach Mango Sangria made with Absolut peach, white Zinfandel,  mango juice and orange juice, and the Blue Reef Margarita, made with Exotico tequila, a splash of pineapple juice, and served with a sugar rim, lime wedge, and a garnish of Swedish Fish, for a little added fun. 

Overall the experience was wonderful, filled with excellent service, both from our server Tom and the General Manager Chuck, as well as delicious bites. 

Currently, UNO’s restaurants are open for dine-in, curbside pick-up, and delivery. For those with concerns about Covid-19, UNO’s is still taking every precaution in order to ensure a safe and comfortable atmosphere for its guests, including continued mask requirements upon arrival, generous spacing of seated tables to accommodate for social distancing, and increased sanitation and hygiene measures. 

To learn more, feel free to visit www.unos.com

 

Inside Look at Discovery Cove: A Foodie’s Guide

Tiffany Nguyen
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Inside Look at Discovery Cove: A Foodie’s Guide

We were invited to Discovery Cove to experience an itinerary full of food, snorkeling, walking underwater, swimming with dolphins, feeding birds and chilling out on the beach, and our visit was amazing from start to finish.

We arrived bright and early to Discovery Cove and parking was complimentary.  There were two employees waiting in the parking lot with thermometers to take everyone’s temperature before we all stood in a socially distanced line to get our bags cleared by security.  After we got our bags cleared, we waited for our turn to be checked in at the counter by a team member.  There were multiple counters so the line moved rather fast and we did not have to wait long.  Check-in begins at 7:15am so the earlier you arrive, the better, that way you can experience a longer day of adventure.

Once we checked in we were given a pouch that included a face mask and hand sanitizer.

The lounge chairs on the beach were spaced out but we rented a private cabana for a completely secluded experience and it made a huge difference.

The view alone from our cabana was magical!

The cabana came with a fridge stocked with beverages (wine and beer were available by request), a treasure chest full of snacks, a locker, towels, animal-friendly sunscreen, four chairs, two reclining beach lounge chairs and a hammock.

But one of the best pieces of advice that I can give you is to pack a change of clothes and make sure you go there hungry.

Discovery Cove is all-inclusive so food, drinks, snacks, towels, animal-friendly sunscreen, swim vest, wet suit, snorkel gear, floatation devices, lockers, shower rooms with dispensers of shampoo, conditioner and body wash are all included with your ticket.

Breakfast is served at the Laguna Grill from 7:30am to 10:30am and consisted of a variety of breakfast staples so there is going to be something for everyone.

Mini blueberry muffins

Mini chocolate chips muffins

Breakfast pastries – cheese, cinnamon, raspberry

Bananas and oranges

Yogurt parfait

Oranges and grapes

Watermelon, oranges and strawberries

2% Reduced Fat Milk and 1% Low-Fat Chocolate Milk

Decaf coffee, coffee, orange juice

Cereals and orange juice

Scrambled eggs, home fries, sausages, biscuit, French toast sticks, oatmeal, cinnamon pastries, yogurt parfait, fresh fruit, coffee and chocolate milk.

Snack & drink bars were located in small huts around the park which serve chips, cheese crackers, Rice Krispie treats, pretzels, cookies and icees.

Lunch is available at the Laguna Grill from 11am to 3:30pm with plenty of food options to choose from.

Spinach wrap

Mini coconut cupcakes

Churrasco, chicken, rice with vegetables, roasted potatoes, Cesar salad, seafood pasta salad, chicken tenders, waffle fries and NY style cheesecake.

The lunch menu also included: berry coleslaw, quinoa salad, carrot cake and chocolate decadent cake.

For 21+, bring your ID.  Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase but a premium drink package can be purchased when you book your tickets if you do not want to carry cash/card around all day.

Aloha Sunrise – layered with Titos Vodka, Bacardi Rum, Triple Sec, Blue Curacao, and grenadine with orange and pineapple juice.

Paradise Breeze – Bacardi Rum immersed in cranberry, pineapple, and orange juice

Chef Russell Stehle surprised us by delivering Halloween cupcakes, candy, and a fruit platter to our cabana. Pictured next to him is our VIP cabana host Jeff who took great care of us during our stay.

The fresh fruit was refreshing after a whole day of adventures.

Here are some of the activities we did:

SeaVenture

We walked underwater for 45 mins. through Discovery Cove’s Grand Reef!

Can you find Nemo?

We swam with an amazing dolphin named Dixie.  She is the matriarch, the oldest, most dominant female dolphin in her pod but she was the sweetest.

We also fed a bunch of beautiful birds in the aviary.

Snorkeling with fishes and stingrays and floating down the lazy river was therapeutic as well.

Add Discovery Cove to your bucket list today and make the trip to the park soon, you will not regret it!

Limited-time offer: Save up to 30% off now through February 28, 2021: https://discoverycove.com/orlando/pricing/

For more information regarding the safety measures, physical distancing guidelines and Booking with Confidence program at Discovery Cove, please visit the links below:

Safety landing page and video asset: https://discoverycove.com/orlando/park-info/park-safety/

Safety FAQ: https://discoverycove.com/orlando/park-info/park-safety/faq/

Book With Confidence: https://discoverycove.com/orlando/pricing/change-or-cancel-reservation/

Discovery Cove
6000 Discovery Cove Way
Orlando, FL 32821
(407) 513-4600
discoverycove.com/orlando

Sunset Walk Orlando hosts inaugural “Best of” Challenge: Burger Edition

Tiffany Nguyen
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Sunset Walk Orlando hosts inaugural “Best of” Challenge: Burger Edition

Over the weekend, Sunset Walk Orlando hosted their inaugural “Best of” Challenge: Burger Edition showcasing a selection of burgers from Margaritaville Resort Orlando, Island H2O Live! Water Park, and the Promenade at Sunset Walk.

Guests of the ticketed event enjoyed street entertainment, Jim Colbert of The Jim Colbert Show on Real Radio 104.1 as the event host, tunes from DJ Scotty B, and a variety of food and beverages.

Participants texted their choices for favorite burger and the top three restaurants received awards for Best Burger at Sunset Walk Orlando.

I had a blast being one of the judges to pick the Critics Choice – Best Burger winner.

Participating Restaurants:

Island H2O Live! Water Park

Margaritaville Resort Orlando – Salty Rim Bar & Grill 

BurgerFi

Capone’s Coal Fired Pizza

El Jefe Tequilas

Estefan Kitchen Orlando

Ford’s Garage

GameTime

Lizzie’s Memphis Style BBQ

Rock & Brews

The Wharf

Yeoman’s Cask & Lion

The Winners:

Critics Choice – Capones Coal Fired Pizza

Third Place – Capones Coal Fired Pizza

Second Place – Ford’s Garage 

First Place – BurgerFi

Be sure to follow for @promenadeatsunsetwalk on social media for more information on upcoming events!

Promenade at Sunset Walk
3251 Margaritaville Boulevard
Kissimmee, FL 34747

Sunset Walk Orlando Presents “Best of” Challenge: Burger Edition

Ricky Ly
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Sunset Walk Orlando Presents “Best of” Challenge: Burger Edition
Sunset Walk Orlando, Central Florida’s hot spot for dining and entertainment is excited to host the inaugural “Best of” Challenge: Burger Edition this Saturday October 3rd.
This outdoor foodie event, taking place on Saturday October 3 from 12pm to 3:30pm, will showcase the unmatched selection of burgers at Margaritaville Resort Orlando, Island H2O Live! Water Park, and the Promenade at Sunset Walk. Jim Colbert of The Jim Colbert Show on  Real Radio 104.1 will be kicking the event up a notch as event host. Tickets are limited and are available today!
VIP Limited Tasting Admission is $15.00, including taxes and fees. To purchase tickets in advance: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sunset-walk-orlando-presents-best-of-challenge-burger-edition-tickets-118952563319
As an event guest, you will have a chance to vote on your favorite burger of the day.

Participating Restaurants:

  • BB’s World Famous Barbecue – Promenade at Sunset Walk
  • BurgerFi – Promenade at Sunset Walk
  • El Jefe Tequilas – Promenade at Sunset Walk
  • Estefan Kitchen Orlando – Promenade at Sunset Walk
  • Ford’s Garage- Promenade at Sunset Walk
  • GameTime- Promenade at Sunset Walk
  • Rock & Brews- Promenade at Sunset Walk
  • Studio Movie Grill – Promenade at Sunset Walk
  • The Wharf – Promenade at Sunset Walk
  • Yeoman’s Cask & Lion- Promenade at Sunset Walk
  • Island H2O Live! Water Park
  • Salty Rim Bar & Grill – Margaritaville Resort Orlando

“The Promenade at Sunset Walk is quickly becoming Central Florida’s newest and hottest hang-out spot. Located right on Highway 192 next to Margaritaville Resort Orlando, The Promenade at Sunset Walk features more than 30 tenants for dining, shopping and entertainment. Rock & Brews, Studio Movie Grill, Skechers, Ford’s Garage, Capone’s Coal Fired Pizza, Yeoman’s Cask & Lion, BurgerFi, Bento Asian Kitchen + Sushi, Gametime, Estefan Kitchen and El Jefe’s Tequila Bar provide something for everyone. The Promenade at Sunset Walk also hosts recurring events like a monthly car & truck show, Sunset Live featuring live bands and weekly Classic Car Cruise-in.  For more information about Sunset Walk and its attractions, visit sunsetwalk.com/promenade/.”  

5 Ways to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at Universal Orlando Resort

Kayla Springmyer
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5 Ways to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at Universal Orlando Resort

This Hispanic Heritage Month, we are excited to share some of the best authentic Hispanic cuisine Universal Orlando Resort has to offer. Hispanic cultures are rich with history, art y comida deliciosa. From enchiladas to empanadas, and even some unique creations from Universal’s own, there’s no better place to celebrate the occasion.

Hispanic Heritage Month lasts from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, but many of these delectable bites are available across Universal Orlando Resort all year long.

5 Ways to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at Universal Orlando Resort

1. Mojo Chicken Bowl

The Mojo Chicken Bowl can be found in Islands of Adventure at Thunder Falls Terrace. It features Cuban mojo chicken, cilantro rice, black beans, sweet plantains, cotija cheese and salsa. You can also substitute the chicken for mojo jackfruit for a plant-based alternative. This bowl is fresh, flavorful and truly brings theme park quick service dining to a whole new level.

2. Natural Selections

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month AND Universal’s recently announced Jurassic World Velocicoaster with the Natural Selections food cart, located in Jurassic Park at Islands of Adventure. The cart is offering brand-new Latin inspired menu items, like beef empanadas, chicharrones, papas rellenas, fruit cups topped with tajin and even dulce de leche churros with coconut flakes. And, for this month only, Natural Selections is offering classic Cuban guava and cream cheese pastries (pastelitos).

3. Sweet Plantain Picadillo Canoe

Inspired by the traditional canoas de platanos dish from Puerto Rico, the Sweet Plantain Picadillo Canoe at Universal’s Volcano Bay is a must-try. The sweet plantain comes stuffed with delicious beef picadillo, green onions, shredded cheddar, queso fresco and is paired with black beans and coconut rice on the side. This popular menu item returned to Volcano Bay’s Kohola Reef Restaurant & Social Club on Sept. 16. after being offered for only a limited time last summer.

4. Sweet Plantain Pastelón

Also at Volcano Bay, the Sweet Plantain Pastelón is available now at Whakawaiwai Eats. This menu item fuses the sweetness of plantains with the savory notes of ground beef and cheese. If you’re looking for something flavorful and light yet filling for a warm day at the water park, this dish is ideal.

5. Enchilada Trio

Venture into CityWalk’s Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food to enjoy a delicious trio of cheese, ranchera and verdes enchiladas. The enchiladas are served with sides of cilantro rice and refried beans. Antojitos also offers appetizing fajitas, tacos, tostadas, esquites and more.

We can’t wait to continue celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with Universal Orlando Resort’s authentic array of Latin cuisine. Sweet or savory, meat or plant-based, you’re sure to find a dish you’ll love.

A Guide to the Best Foodie Festivals and Events in Orlando this Fall 2020

Kayla Springmyer
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A Guide to the Best Foodie Festivals and Events in Orlando this Fall 2020

It’s officially fall in Orlando, and there are plenty of foodie festivals available this spooky season. From theme parks to resorts to restaurants, the list of festive fall treats to choose from is extensive. Each site has developed new health and safety guidelines in response to the ongoing pandemic, so guests can feel safe while getting into the fall spirit. Join us as we explore the Best Fall Foodie Festivals in Orlando 2020.

A Guide to the Best Fall Foodie Festivals in Orlando 2020

Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining

For the 15th year in a row, Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining offers three-course, prix-fixe dinners for only $35 per person at a variety of top restaurants throughout Orlando. $1 from each meal will be donated to Feed the Need Florida, benefiting individuals in need of food due to COVID-19. For a full list of participating restaurants, click here.

Grande Lakes “Fall on the Farm”

Grande Lakes Orlando is hosting the first-ever “Fall on the Farm” seasonal event every weekend through October and November 2020. The event features pumpkin picking, hayrides, painting workshops and more. Guests can choose from pulled pork and beef sliders, hot dogs, warm pretzels, popcorn, bagged chips, candied apples and Dippin’ Dots to snack on.

Sip, Savor and Stay Saturdays: A New Twist on the Food & Wine Classic Experience

Every Saturday now through Oct. 24, The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort is hosting a special series of food and drink events from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. To learn more about the event and to view specific menu items, click here.

SeaWorld Orlando Craft Beer Festival

SeaWorld Orlando’s Craft Beer Festival offers guests a variety of tasty treats and craft brews select dates now through Nov.1. There are over 20 unique food options as well as over 100 local craft beers to choose from. For more information, visit SeaWorld.com.

SeaWorld Orlando Craft Beer Festival 2020SeaWorld Orlando Craft Beer Festival 2020

SeaWorld Orlando Craft Beer Festival 2020

SeaWorld Spooktacular

Also through Nov. 1, guests can delight in trick-or-treating, cookie decorating, meet-and-greets, a spooky maze and so much more at the SeaWorld Spooktacular Halloween event. For an added fee, enjoy Count von Count’s Spooktacular Breakfast featuring some Sesame Street friends and breakfast favorites.

Taste of EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival

It wouldn’t be fall in Orlando without Taste of EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival. The Disney magic may look a little different this year, but the festival food is as delicious as ever. Check out Walt Disney World’s Foodie Guide for an extensive look at the menu items available.

Halloween at Magic Kingdom

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party may be cancelled this year, but that doesn’t mean Halloween at the Magic Kingdom can’t still be magical. This year you can find fall treats like the Pumpkin Spiced Waffle Sundae and the Poor Unfortunate Souls Float all throughout the park. Plus, for the first time ever, guests of all ages can wear their favorite costumes to Magic Kingdom during regular park hours.

Photo Credit: Walt Disney World Resort

Fall at Universal Orlando Resort

Halloween has finally returned to Universal Orlando Resort. Guests can find unique fall offerings throughout CityWalk, inside the theme parks and at on-site resorts. At Universal Studios Florida, haunted bites can be found at the food trucks, inside food spots like TODAY Cafe, in the Halloween Horror Nights Tribute Store and at the brand-new themed Skeleton Bar.

Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort

Orlando Forum of Fear

On select nights Oct. 1 to 31, the Orlando Forum will host rotating haunted mazes as well as a three-course haunted séance-themed dinner. Guests will be required to wear masks at all times unless seated for dinner, and social distancing will be strictly enforced.

Gators, Ghosts and Goblins

Gatorland is hosting Gators, Ghosts and Goblins every weekend from Oct. 10 to Nov. 1. The seasonal event combines Halloween and Oktoberfest for a unique fall experience, offering traditional German food and beer at an additional cost. For more information, visit Gatorland.com.

We are thrilled to see Orlando making fall a reality with increased health and safety measures. The Halloween season lives on, with some of the most tasty fall treats yet!

New Fall 2020 Seasonal Menu at First Watch, plus Safety Measures

Ricky Ly
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New Fall 2020 Seasonal Menu at First Watch, plus Safety Measures

Change is in the air – from summer to fall, the seasons are changing and so is the seasonal featured menu at First Watch.

As the temperatures are beginning to cool slightly and pumpkins begin to get harvested, the new First Watch seasonal menu reflects that change with hearty pork carnitas burritos, pumpkin spiced pancakes, carrot crush juice, and cinnamon sugar doughnut holes.

My favorite dish was the Carnitas Burrito, a massive tortilla burrito stuffed with pork carnitas, scrambled cage-free eggs, fresh seasoned potatoes, black beans, Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, and fresh avocado. The burrito is covered with a mild, delicious tomatillo hollandaise and topped with lime crema, pico de gallo, house-pickled onions, fresh cilantro and Cotija cheese. What a beauty!!!

CARROT CRUSH
Carrot, orange, coconut water, turmeric and lemon.

CARNITAS BURRITO
Pork carnitas, scrambled cage-free eggs, fresh seasoned potatoes, black beans, Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, and fresh avocado. Wrapped in a grilled whole wheat tortilla, covered with tomatillo hollandaise and topped with lime crema, pico de gallo, house-pickled onions, fresh cilantro and Cotija cheese.

PUMPKIN PANCAKE BREAKFAST
Two cage-free eggs cooked any style plus one of their signature spiced Pumpkin Pancakes and a Jones Dairy Farm grilled all-natural savory chicken sausage patty.

HOLEY DONUTS
Cinnamon sugar-dusted cake donut holes with chocolate sauce and mixed berry compote for dipping

Of course, there are still old favorites on the menu available for take out or dine in at First Watch, including:

ELEVATED EGG SANDWICH
Fresh, over-easy cage-free egg with bacon, Gruyere cheese, fresh smashed avocado, mayo and lemon dressed arugula on a brioche bun. Served with fresh, seasoned potatoes.

FARM STAND BREAKFAST TACOS
Three wheat-corn tortillas with scrambled eggs, Cajun chicken, chorizo, Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Topped with fresh avocado and housemade pico de gallo. Served with seasoned black beans.

Belgian Waffle

Safety Precautionary Measures at First Watch

First Watch has begun to reopen more of their restaurants here in Central Florida in a way that they are confident is safe for their employees and customers.

Their teams are dedicated to continuous training, enhancing their safety procedures and following CDC recommendations. It’s First Watch’s mission to do the right thing – for your family and for theirs.

They have always kept things fresh and clean, but here are a few things they are doing to keep our restaurant even safer:

  • Pre-Screening our Team Members | Every person, every shift, to ensure everyone on our team is healthy and ready to safely serve you and your family.
  • Social Distancing | For everyone’s safety, we are making a conscious effort to minimize close contact. A little personal space goes a long way.
  • Menus | We are providing single-use menus, and you can also check out our menu on your mobile device to keep things clean and green!
  • Condiments | Single-use condiments are available upon request. We’re also disinfecting containers, bottles and trays between each use.
  • High-Touch Surfaces | We’re continually disinfecting door handles, restroom surfaces, our host area…you name it!
  • Hand Sanitizer | It’s available up front. Come say hi!
  • Handwashing and Hygiene | We’re all washing our hands, as always, thoroughly and often. We’re also ensuring the whole team is practicing other proper personal hygiene behaviors. Of course.
  • Personal Protective Equipment | We’ve made personal protective equipment, including face coverings and gloves, available to all team members.
  • No-Contact Pickup | Next time you’re craving Breakfast, Brunch or Lunch on the go, order and pay online and grab your order just inside our front door. We’ll give you a thumbs up on the way out!

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