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Food Network celebrity chef Richard Blais hosts “Friends of Cooper’s Hawk” on I-Drive

Richard Blais – chef, restaurateur, James Beard Foundation nominated cookbook author and television personality joined Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant on I-Drive as the “Friends of Cooper’s Hawk” host.  Cooper’s Hawk wine club members were the first to be invited to attend this exclusive event.  Cooper’s Hawk wine club is the largest wine club in the world with over 350,000 members.

We were also invited to attend Richard Blais’ sold out stand-up comedy cooking show and we loved it!  Blais is a hoot, his show was educational as it was entertaining.  Before the event, we got to sit down and interview him during a private media meet & greet.  We learned that at age 11, Blais would make ham and cheese sandwiches with crushed chips after school while Julia Child was playing on the television.  Blais would pretend he was in a restaurant where he was the customer, server, chef and owner.  His dad was in film so that played a huge role in his life growing up.

Blais now owns five restaurants, has a beautiful wife with two young daughters.  He is also the manager of his daughter’s basketball team.


“I am a man who likes to embrace opportunity.” – Richard Blais

It was a pleasure dining with Joseph Hayes from Orlando Magazine

Tim McEnery, Founder and CEO of Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants and Richard Blais

Toast & coopa with white truffle honey

Lobster cannoli with ricotta, fresh herbs

Sicilian meatballs with currants, pine nuts

Persimmon and burrata salad with spanish olive oil, black truffle

Emily Wines of Cooper’s Hawk

Sea bass milanese with romanesco, brown butter, crispy pork, avocado dressing

Modern tiramisu with mascarpone ice cream, brandy, orange, cocoa nib

Richard Blais, Chef Edmund & Chef Stephen of Cooper’s Hawk and Blais’ Chef Scarletta

They sent us home with a bottle of wine and a signed copy of Richard Blais’ “So Good” cookbook – courtesy of Thomas Koenigsberg, CMO at Cooper’s Hawk Winery and Restaurants.  This was the first cookbook that I read through and thoroughly enjoyed.  Highly recommended!

Fun fact:  The only wine that is gonna be served at the Screen Actors Guild Award this Sunday, January 27, is this blend of SAG x Cooper’s Hawk Wine thanks to a 3-year partnership with SAG.

Cooper’s Hawk Winery
8005 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819
(407) 956-3400
chwinery.com

2nd Annual Pastry in the Park 2019 – January 20th

Pastry in the Park is back this year with a remarkable lineup of Pastry Chefs that represent some of Central Florida’s best independent restaurants on January 20th at 6pm! For tickets, call The Osprey Tavern at (407) 960-7700

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This year 5 local Orlando pastry chefs are getting together to showcase Valrhona chocolate, each Chef highlighting a different flavor. Savory bites will be provided by The Osprey Tavern.

We spoke to Pastry Chef Kristy Carlucci about what is new this year and also chatted with her about desserts and food trends.

What’s new this year for the 2nd Annual Pastry in the Park?

This year, we are showcasing an ingredient that is a keystone of every pastry chef’s menu: Chocolate. I couldn’t think of a better way to highlight it than with Valrhona chocolate, which has an ever-growing array of chocolate varieties. The tasting is structured in a progressive style, starting with white chocolate, and ending up with a very dark chocolate. Chef Elek is even joining in the fun with a savory intermezzo using Valrhona’s Cocoa Powder!

 

What is the state of pastry like in Orlando right now?

I think that the state of pastry in Orlando is leaps and bounds ahead of what it was even 5 years ago. We’re seeing trends that for a while, you only found locally at the parks or hotels. Patisseries like The Glass Knife and bakeries like Buttermilk Bakery are really setting the bar high in terms of creativity and execution. From my perspective as being a Baking & Pastry Instructor at Valencia College, my classes are full every semester, and the new downtown campus will enable instructors to expose students to even more techniques and trends.

What are some food trends lately here in Orlando for dessert that you have noticed?

Speaking of trends, at the restaurant, our guests love comfort. I try to have at least one “out there” dessert for those adventurous types (which to those people: I love you!!), but we have to have that quintessential chocolate dessert, or that classic apple crisp; something that people can relate to. However, I do like to take those familiar desserts and add an unexpected flavor or component to them. Like with said apple crisp, we paired it with a Sunchoke Ice Cream.

I think the goal of a restaurant Pastry Chef should be to entice guests with a well-rounded menu, don’t be pretentious, but also don’t underestimate your guests. If you give them a stellar piece of Carrot Cake one night, next time they might try your Lemon Posset with Elderflower Espuma 😉 . As I tell both my students and my pastry cooks, dessert is (or should be) the taste our guests leave with. It’s our responsibility to represent the restaurant with one last sweet impression.

Kristy Carlucci
Pastry Chef
The Osprey Tavern
4899 New Broad St
Orlando, FL 32714

Chef Kristy Carlucci brings 10+yrs of pastry experience as the Executive Pastry Chef of The Osprey Tavern, Seito Sushi, and Reyes Mezcaleria, all in Orlando, FL. Chef Carlucci gained a strong set of fundamentals while studying Baking and Pastry Arts at The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York. She has developed and strengthened her skills under the tutelage of such kitchen luminaries as Richard Rosendale CMC, Francisco J. Migoya CMB, and Chef Angela Hartnett. She has worked in various hotels, country clubs, restaurants, and patisseries throughout the United States, baking for celebrities, professional athletes, and political figures. Locally, she has served as Pastry Chef de Cuisine at Cask & Larder in Winter Park and is also an instructor at Valencia College.

10 “Hot and New” Orlando Restaurants Opening in 2019

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It’s now 2019 and there are lots of plans for openings here in Orlando to add to our growing local food and drink scene. Last year, there were a lot of new taco and poke shops. What will 2019 bring?

Here are 10 hot and new restaurants coming to Orlando “soon”:

1. Jaleo by Chef Jose Andres at Disney Springs
Coming in: Early 2019
Location: Disney Springs

Named one of Time’s “100 Most Influential People” and “Outstanding Chef” by the James Beard Foundation, José Andrés, the internationally recognized culinary innovator, author, educator, television personality, humanitarian and chef/owner is the only chef globally that has both a 2-star Michelin restaurant and 4 Bib Gourmands.

Jaleo, the 22 thousand square foot restaurant will be Andrés’ largest to date and will bring the spirit and flavors of Spain to Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. Based on the colorful iconography of Spain, the architectural form of the building is inspired by an artichoke, a vegetable native to José’s homeland. The artichoke structure opens up, inviting guests to enter and experience the very best of Spanish cuisine.

The idea of Jaleo, the Spanish word for “revelry,” inspires the large, family-style gathering space, inviting guests to share tapas and sangria, gather with family at the foosball tables, or enjoy the more elegant central seating for paellas and grilled meats, anchored by the restaurant’s open kitchen and wood fire grill.

2. Financier Patisserie
Coming: TBA 2019
Location: 212 N. Park Ave, Winter Park

Financier Patisserie first opened in 2002 on historic Stone Street in the namesake Financial District of Lower Manhattan and is known for its Wall Street clientele and the classic French almond cake basked to resemble a bar of gold, a Financier.
Their coffee is roasted in Brooklyn, packaged while the beans are still warm, and shipped to their stores within 24 hours of roasting for maximum flavor and freshness.

3. Taco Bus
Coming: Early 2019
Location: 11325 University Boulevard (Near UCF)

Taco Bus – the wildly popular Tampa-based Mexican taco food truck establishment is continuing to sing the ballads of authentic Mexican tacos and dish specials, as well as vegetarian and vegan dishes, across the state of Florida with its newest pit stop near UCF. The location was formerly Greens and Grille, then Pie Five, then most recently Paramount Fine Foods / Lebanese Kitchen. It will do very well here in East Orlando.

4. Kabooki Sushi 2
Coming: February 2019
Location: 7705 Turkey Lake Road

Owner/Chef Henry Moso’s popular Kabooki Sushi is having a second “staging” out on Turkey Lake Road in West Orlando very soon. Chef Moso combines “locally sourced, seasonal ingredients with the best cuts from Japan for a dining experienced centered on quality control, excitement, and surprise.” According to the restaurant, “behind the bar, the staff performs under his direction to brandish dishes with the vibrancy of Mexican flavor, the sophistication of French preparation, and the curated integrity of Japan. Every night at Kabooki, the tastes of the world meet for an authentically global encounter.”

5. Hinckley’s Fancy Meats
Coming: February 2019
Location: East End Market, 3201 Corrine Dr

Sandwiches and more from Orlando-native Chef Matt Hinckley who returns to Florida with over 15 years of culinary experience and a pedigree studded with leadership positions in both James Beard award-winning and Michelin-starred kitchens. His Charcuterie Box was recently seen in the New York Times 2017 Holiday Gift Buying Guide, featuring duck ham, smoked antelope sausage, bacon liverwurst, smoked headcheese, tasso ham, duck rillette, and spuma di lardo.

6. Slice by Pizza Bruno
Coming: Early 2019
Location: 1011 N. Mills Ave.

Chef Bruno Zacchini, hot on the heels of the opening of his second location in downtown Orlando, is now bringing his popular Neapolitan-style pizzeria to the Mills 50 District. Expect lots of garlic knots and wings, also.

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7. Sette
Coming: March 2019
Location: 1407 N. Orange Ave (formerly Stir – In Ivanhoe Village)

Se7en Bites creators Trina Gregory-Propst and Va Propst are bringing to Ivanhoe Village their newest rustic Italian restaurant concept called Sette, which means “seven” in Italian. The restaurant will feature pastas made from scratch, Italian comfort food, and baked goods and desserts.

8. Jack and Honey’s
Coming: Early 2019
Location: 1235 N. Orange Ave. (Ivanhoe Village)

This is the planned 24-hour diner next door to the Hammered Lamb, brought to you by the owners of The Hammered Lamb. They plan on serving breakfast food all day as well as classic diner comfort food like meatloaf, macaroni and cheese, burgers and homemade milkshakes.

9. Proper & Wild
Coming: 2019
Location: Morse Avenue, Winter Park

Chelsie & Jamie Savage of The Sanctum bring Proper & Wild, a chef-driven, health-forward, plant-centric concept.

10. Tori Tori
Coming: Early 2019
Location: 720 N. Mills Ave

Chef/owner Sonny Nguyen is on a tear this year with the opening of quick service concept Domu Chibi in East Orlando and a full blown Domu in Dr Phillips area. Not to be placed on the backburner is Tori Tori in Mills 50 District, bringing together the art of the Japanese style pub and meat and veggie skewer grilling to the heart of Orlando.

BONUS

City Works Eatery and Pour House – Disney Springs

There have been lots of new additions to Disney Springs recently – Wine Bar George, Terralina Crafted Italian, 4 Rivers Cantina Barbacoa Food Truck and Chicken Guy!, to name just a few – and this year, 2019, will welcome the new City Works Eatery & Pour House to open on the West Side next summer. The restaurant and bar will offer plenty of high-def TVs including a 165-inch screen, perfect for viewing your favorite live sporting events, featuring classic American food and 90+ local and global varieties of beers on tap.

Euphoria at Margaritaville Orlando Resort
8000 Fins Up Circle, Kissimmee, FL 34747

This is a new restaurant opening inside Margaritaville Orlando Resort – details to come.

A Foodie’s Tour of Orlando’s Mills 50 District with Congresswoman Stephanie Murphy

U.S. Congresswoman Stephanie Murphy serves as Florida’s Seventh Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives which includes all of Seminole County and much of northern Orange County, including downtown Orlando, Maitland, Winter Park, and the University of Central Florida. That includes Mills 50 District, one of my favorite districts for food and drink in all of Orlando. Congresswoman Murphy is a bit of a “foodie” herself, and is a fan of the spicy mala Chinese Sichuan cuisine. I had the honor and privilege of playing her “food guide” through Mills 50 recently.

She currently serves on the powerful House Armed Services Committee and the House Small Business Committee, and has passed a bill to make it easier for small business owners to obtain low-interest loans.

Previously, Congresswoman Murphy was a businesswoman and college instructor after serving as a national security specialist in the Office of the U.S. Secretary of Defense where she received numerous awards for her distinguished service, including the Secretary of Defense Medal for Exceptional Civilian Service. She worked on a wide range of security issues from counterterrorism to foreign military relations to strategic planning for the department. Prior to her public service, Stephanie was a strategy consultant at Deloitte Consulting.

Highlighting some of the small businesses in her district, we took a short food tour of the Mills 50 District, visiting some of my favorite local markets, eateries, and coffee shops.

The district, bounded by Mills Avenue and Colonial Drive (SR 50), is home to many eclectic local small businesses, restaurants, and markets.

It is also known as “Little Vietnam” and is home to the largest concentration of Vietnamese-owned restaurants, markets, and nail supply stores in Florida. A child of boat refugees whose family was rescued by the US Navy after the Vietnam War, Congresswoman Murphy is the first Vietnamese-American woman elected to Congress in our nation’s history.

She is able to practice some of that Vietnamese as we made our way to Tien Hung Market, one of the first Vietnamese grocery stores to open in Mills 50.

Tien Hung Oriental Food Center – Here they make their own soy milk and have an extensive list of Vietnamese herbs, produce, noodles, fresh live seafood, banh mi, snacks, and even a jewelry store. Tien Hung is one of the oldest Vietnamese market in the area, run by the Phan family who have been here since the 1980s.

Next stop – Lineage Coffee Roasting. This is the second coffee shop for Lineage, based out of East End Market up the street.

They are known for their cold brews and serve craft roasted coffee, carefully sourced from around the world. Though not in Mills 50, we picked up some vegan raspberry doughnuts from Valhalla Bakery of Market on South down the street to go with our coffees.

Finally – King Bao. Chef Vic Nguyen, a former sushi chef, one day decided to bring his love of food to bao form – think fluffy white bun sandwiches filled with all sorts of goodness from pork belly to lobster to fried avocado and even dessert-y nutella and banana.

It was truly an honor and such fun to showcase and highlight some of Orlando’s own local flavor with Congresswoman Murphy. I wish her all the best as she continues to serve our local Central Florida community and the interests of its people in Congress.

Some facts from Forbes Magazine about small businesses:

1. Small businesses comprise 99.9 percent of all firms and 99.7 percent of firms with paid employees. Out of 29.6 million businesses, all but 19,000 are small.

1. Small Business, Big Role -mall businesses comprise 99.9 percent of all firms and 99.7 percent of firms with paid employees. Out of 29.6 million businesses, all but 19,000 are small.  Small businesses generate three-fifths of net new jobs, driving a big share of U.S. employment growth. In total, small businesses employ 58 million, or 47.8 percent of all private-sector employees.

2. Family – About one in five firms are family-owned. Industries that have the highest share of family-owned businesses are management of companies and enterprises (46.4 percent of firms in this industry are family-owned), real estate and rental and leasing (37.3 percent), and accommodation and food services (33.2 percent).

Heart of Florida United Way Announces Restaurants Participating in 27th Annual Chef’s Gala on March 2nd

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For the 27th year, 24 of the region’s top restaurants will gather for Heart of Florida United Way’s Chef’s Gala, a fundraiser benefitting local hunger and homelessness programs.

Hosted by Walt Disney World at Epcot Showplace, this culinary adventure offers unlimited sampling of signature dishes prepared by award-winning chefs, each paired with a fine wine or specialty beverage.

The event will be held on Saturday, March 2, 2019 from 6:45 – 10 p.m.

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2019 Participating Restaurants

Savory

Ale & Compass Restaurant – Disney’s  Beach Club Resort

Be Our Guest Restaurant at Magic Kingdom Park

blu on the avenue

Coral Reef Restaurant at Epcot Center

Fiorenzo Italian Steakhouse at Hyatt Regency Orlando

Hemisphere – Hyatt Regency Orlando

Highball & Harvest at Ritz-Carlton, Grande Lakes

Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd. Skipper Canteen at Magic Kingdom Park

La Luce at Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek

Latitude & Longitude at Orlando World Center Marriott

Le Cellier Steakhouse – Epcot®

Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Morimoto Asia – Disney Springs

Narcoossee’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Primo by Melissa Kelly – J.W. Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes

Sanaa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Resort Area

Sebastian’s Bistro at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

SLATE

STK Orlando – Disney Springs

Tiffins at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Desserts & Coffee:

Amorette’s Patisserie – Disney Springs

BoardWalk Bakery at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn

Gideon’s Bakehouse

The Glass Knife

Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company

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Through the generosity of sponsors, like Walt Disney World, as well as the participating restaurants that donate all the food, 95 cents of every dollar raised at the event goes directly to community programs aimed at alleviating hunger and homelessness.

Tickets are available by visiting www.ChefsGala.org. Individual tickets are $350, couple ticket package is $650 and corporate ticket packages are $3,500. Sponsorships are also available by emailing ChefsGala@hfuw.org or calling (407) 429-2129 .

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About Heart of Florida United Way
Heart of Florida United Way (HFUW) is Central Florida’s most comprehensive health and human services charity and the largest provider of funds to the region’s most critical health and human service programs. Last year, it raised and managed $24.4 million throughout Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties. HFUW is working to advance the common good by focusing on education, income, health and basic needs. It operates United Way 2-1-1, Central Florida’s information and assistance, crisis, suicide and referral helpline; Volunteer Resource Center; Gifts In Kind Center; Emergency Homelessness Services; and the Ryan White Part B program, which administers more than $2 million to provide HIV/AIDS services and referrals. HFUW impacts more than 650,000 individuals annually through its direct service and funded programs. United Way partners with local businesses, government, other charities to increase awareness of local health and human service issues and to inspire hope, provide options and create possibilities for people in need. Visit www.HFUW.org for more information, or call (407) 835-0900.

First Look: Ice & Bites – UCF area

Asian, colorful, and sweet.  Oh my gosh, I’ve found a place that is basically me in restaurant form.  Ice & Bites (located near UCF) is super cute and the owners are super foodies and also the friendliest people on the planet.  I actually randomly met them a few months ago at the Cheney Brothers food show and we clicked instantly.  I highly recommend their one-of-a-kind place!  They will take good care of you.

Affogato!  Affogato literally translates to “drown” in Italian.  You pour the espresso over the cotton candy and it dissolves revealing the ice cream of your choice underneath.

Chicken katsu rice burger, so good.  I ordered fried rice cakes dusted with hot cheeto dust as my side, it was interesting!

Taiyaki (Japanese fish-shaped cake – really good!) with your ice of ice cream and toppings.  I ordered mine with green tea ice cream, fruity pebbles and pocky sticks. I’m looking forward to trying it was taro ice cream, nerds candy and mochi next time!

*NEW* Boba Midnight Dream – lemon flavor mixed with soju (Korean drink similar to Vodka), boba and cotton candy. 21+up only.

*NEW* alcohol boba flight – sparkling sake or soju and popping boba. 21+up only.

Ice & Bites
3402 Technological Ave #220, Orlando, FL 32817
(407) 208-1340
places.singleplatform.com/ice–bites-cafe/menu

Inside Look: Orlando’s Ramen Rumble 2

Ramen Rumble 2 presented by Tasty Chomps Food Blog and hosted by Seito Sushi Baldwin Park & The Osprey Tavern was held on Monday, December 10th at The Osprey Tavern.

This year, over 150 people attended the event, raising over $3000 for charity, chosen by the winning Ramen Rumble chef.

Ramen has been on the up and up in recent years here in Orlando. A few years ago there were hardly any contenders in the city, but now there has been a flourishing of new restaurants and old offering this quintessential, humble Japanese noodle dish.

This is not your instant cup noodle ramen from your college days – the broth takes hours to make, the noodles often time is hand made or of very high quality, and the toppings include pork belly and corn. The dish, originally a product of Chinese immigrants to Japan but transformed over the years to become a uniquely Japanese dish.

Jason and Sue Chin of The Osprey Tavern – our gracious hosts!

The aim of the Ramen Rumble competition is to unify and lift up our culinary community through philanthropic events and to further build the appreciation of the many ramen styles available to us in Orlando. During the first year, Seito Sushi, Sushi Pop, and Soco / The Baoery competed for best ramen with Seito Sushi placing first.

Ramen Rumble 2 Contestants:

Yuhi Fujinaga – Executive Chef Morimoto Asia at Disney Springs
Morimoto Asia at Disney Springs – Tuna-Kotsu Tsukemen // Roasted bluefin tuna bone broth, temomi noodles, iberico pork loin chashu
BONUS: Morimoto Asia at Disney Springs – Peking Duck Ramen // Peking duck broth, peking duck, scallions, cilantro, taberu-raiyu
Charity: Give Kids the World

Kevin Kel Phanhvilay – Chef/Owner Sticky Rice Lao Street Food
Sticky Rice Lao Street Food – Kapoon Ramen // Coconut chicken broth, red curry, apple infuse pork fat, king oyster mushrooms, beech mushrooms, soy marinated quail egg, foie gras —
Charity: Lao Heritage Foundation

Travis Cliff – Head Chef Jade Sushi & New Asian
Jade Sushi & New Asian – Ebi Tonkotsu Ramen // Pork bone broth, prawn head broth, fried sakura shrimp
Charity: Second Harvest Food Bank

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Desserts by Executive Pastry Chef Kristy of The Osprey Tavern

Sticky Rice Lao Street Food – Kapoon Ramen // Coconut chicken broth, red curry, apple infuse pork fat, king oyster mushrooms, beech mushrooms, soy marinated quail egg, foie gras 

Jade Sushi & New Asian – Ebi Tonkotsu Ramen // Pork bone broth, prawn head broth, fried sakura shrimp

Morimoto Asia at Disney Springs – Tuna-Kotsu Tsukemen // Roasted bluefin tuna bone broth, temomi noodles, iberico pork loin chashu

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Morimoto Asia at Disney Springs – Peking Duck Ramen // Peking duck broth, peking duck, scallions, cilantro, taberu-raiyu

Taro Pebbles Mochi Donut Bites

Matcha Mochi Donut Bites

Smores Mochi Donut Bites

In the end – Chef Kevin of Sticky Rice won with his Kapoon Ramen both the critic’s choice and the people’s choice for best ramen of Ramen Rumble 2, taking home the $3000 for the charity of his choice, Lao Heritage Foundation.

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See more in our gallery below:

 

2018 – A Year in Review – TastyChomps’ Top Food Moments

Looking back on 2018, here are our favorite food moments and tastes of 2018!

A Foodie’s Tour of Congresswoman Stephanie Murphy – taking a tour of Mills 50 food and drink from King Bao to Lineage Coffee to Tien Hung Market, it was such an honor to be a part of this!

Ramen Rumble 2 – Three local restaurants – Morimoto Asia, Jade New Asian, and Sticky Rice – battled it out for the title of best ramen in Orlando with over $3000 raised for charity! Such a great event hosted with Sue and Jason Chin at The Osprey Tavern.

Foodie Forum Friday Lunch – such fun visiting new restaurants with our group this past year, from Hunger Street Taco to Taste of Chengdu to Sticky Rice and more! Join our group if you haven’t already! https://facebook.com/groups/orlandofoodieforum/

Taste of Chengdu – Chef Tiger Tang doesn’t hold back when it comes to authentic Sichuan flavors – mala numb spicy sichuan peppercorns and all. The place is a must visit!

Chef Wang’s Kitchen – Located in west Orlando, they have the best beef chow fun in town with house made noodles


Wine Bar George at Disney Springs – Learning about all the intricacies of wine from the Master Sommelier and legend George Miliotes himself was a delight – and the food was fantastic as well – especially the mac and cheese bites!


Bad As’s Sandwiches – The Poseidon 2.0 – chunks of juicy fresh lobster, bacon lardons, pickled cabbage and gochujang lime aioli on fresh house baked roll – best damn lobster roll in Orlando


Jinya Ramen – Cha Cha Cha garlic lovers ramen – pork broth: pork chashu, pork back fat, seasoned egg, bean sprouts, chopped onion, green onion, fish powder, korean powder served with THICK noodles – this dish brought me back to the streets of Tokyo’s Shinjuku district – addicting

Orlando Weekly’s “People We Love” edition – Ten People Making Orlando a Better Place to Be – such an honor to be a part of this!

Voodoo Doughnuts at Universal Orlando CityWalk – this year I got the chance to be one of the “storytellers” for Universal – and this Voodoo Doughnut story was my favorite of them all – the Memphis Mafia – think an Elvis apple cluster – with banana, peanut butter, and chocolate chip was my favorite.

Beard in Baldwin – Orlando’s Best Chefs all in one place? No brainer! This nigiri from Sushi Pop was one of many highlights of the night! Do not miss this event next year!

Jade New Asian – Tan Tan Spicy Ramen Noodle – “dry” noodle with spicy ground pork – imagine mapo tofu but drenched over noodles – amazing.

Taste! Central Florida 2018 – over 50 local restaurants all raising hundreds of thousands for Second Harvest Food Bank and the Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida to fight childhood hunger at the Orlando World Center Marriott Hotel. This year I began serving on the board of directors for Second Harvest Food Bank and it has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life to work together with our community in fighting hunger.

Pizza Bruno – I know I am late to this train but damn the pizza, garlic knots, the grilled octopus – all off the charts on flavor and execution. Thank you chef Bruno!

Finally – the whole Andrew Zimmern debacle and subsequent apology tour back in Orlando. Hope he learns from his mistakes in the year to come 🙂

2018 – A Year in Review: Orlando’s Food Scene and Trends

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Move over turkey legs, Orlando’s local food scene brought even more flavor to town this year. The king of Flavortown himself, Guy Fieri, along with Andrew Zimmern and many other foodie world luminaries dropped by to feature local Orlando favorites like Domu Ramen and Orlando Meats.

Food Trends in 2018 included:

New openings (and some closings) of taco joints

Chela Tacos and Tequila downtown, Cinco Tacos and Tequila, Four Rebels (now closed)

Lots of new poke bowl joints in Orlando

– including Poke Hana, PokeStop, Da Kine poke at Market on Magnolia in downtown Orlando.

Disney Springs

– Formerly Downtown Disney, this mega-complex continues to grow as a mecca for celebrity chef restaurants with openings from Terralina to Chicken Guy to Wine Bar George and more.

More Regional Asian cuisine

– Laotian at Sticky Rice in the Mills 50 District and Sichuan Chinese cuisine at Taste of Chengdu in West Orlando

Orlando Loves Ramen

– New spots included Jinya in Thornton Park, The Ramen in downtown Orlando, and new locations for Domu in Waterford with more to come.

Orlando Loves Coffee

Foxtail Coffee continued to expand its reach in Central Florida this year
– New notables include: Craft and Common, Deeply Coffee, La Kuma

Orlando Loves Grocery Stores

iFresh market and Golden Sparkling market added to the list of Asian grocery store
– New markets in Central Florida include Sprouts in Winter Park, EarthFare in Lake Nona, and more outposts of Lucky’s Market added this year.

More Vegan Food options

– including DaJen Eats in Eatonville, Leguminati, and The District at Mills 50

New Orlando Pop-Up Dining Experiences

– including Peruvian Papa Llama, Bangrak Thai Street Kitchen, Chinese-inspired Little Giant, and even a pop-up food truck stop at A La Cart

Excited to see what 2019 will bring to our city, continue to make Orlando the City Beautiful to play, work, and eat!

I-Drive: Weeki Wachee Springs Mermaids at SEA LIFE Aquarium, Giordano’s Pizza, and La Carraia Gelato

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On Friday – Sundays from Sept. 28 – Oct. 21, the world famous mermaids of Weeki Wachee Springs State Park dived into SEA LIFE Orlando’s aquarium’s tanks to delight guests with their underwater feats and meet and greets.

It’s the first time in the 70-year history of the Weeki Wachee mermaids that they have performed in Orlando – ever since their first show in 1947. And what better place than the family-friendly SEA LIFE?

SEA LIFE Orlando is an immersive, one-of-kind aquarium experience that allows marine life enthusiasts to experience the magical world beneath our oceans of the world with interactive touch pools, bubble aquariums, floor-to-ceiling displays, a cold water rock pool, and 360-degree and 180-degree ocean tunnels featuring thousands of sea animals. The 25,000-square foot aquarium attraction is home to colorful fish, sharks, sea horses, stingrays, jellies, a rescue green sea turtle and much more.

SEA LIFE is the world’s largest aquarium chain and SEA LIFE Orlando is the 50th location aquarium launched in the world and the 8th in the U.S. SEA LIFE Orlando is located at 8337 International Drive in Orlando, Florida, inside I-Drive 360, the entertainment and dining complex which is the home of the 400-foot Orlando Eye observation wheel and celebrity wax attraction Madame Tussauds Orlando. For more information, go to?www.visitsealife.com/orlando.

If you have children, it’s a great place to spend the afternoon learning about all the life in the sea. Scroll down below to see more:

There’s plenty of great places to eat nearby as well. If you are a fan of Chicago-style deep dish pizza, Giordano’s is a must and then head over to La Carraia Gelato in Dr Phillips down the street off of Sand Lake Road.

If you ever go to Chicago, you know there are a few places that are just known for their deep dish pizza and one of those is Giordano’s founded in 1974.

Inspired by Mama Giordano’s “Italian Easter Pie”, this double- crusted, cheese stuffed masterpiece is now famous all around the world.


Giordano’s
6203 W Sand Lake Rd · (407) 377-0022
https://giordanos.com/locations/search

La Carraia is another Italian favorite – fresh from the city of Florence and transported to Orlando’s Dr. Phillips Marketplace.

La Carraia Gelato
7600 Dr Phillips Blvd #38, Orlando, FL 32819

Interview – Anthony Bruno of Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza

With two locations in the Orlando area, Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza serves up authentic coal fired pizza, oven roasted chicken wings, homemade meatballs, Eggplant Marino (named after partner and NFL hall of famer Dan Marino) and Anthony’s Classic Italian Salad. We chatted with the restaurant recently to find out more about how it all started and where they are going.

How did the idea of Anthony’s start?
Anthony Bruno came to Florida from New York and immediately recognized the lackluster pizza options in the state. He decided to take matters into his own hands and in 2002, Anthony introduced coal oven pizza to South Florida. His vision was to create coal oven pizza delivering a crisp, well-done taste, that rivaled the ones he enjoyed while growing up in New York. He launched his first location in Fort Lauderdale and the brand now has 65 company-owned restaurants up the east coast and in IL.

What makes Anthony’s so special?
The combination of always fresh, high-quality ingredients and Anthony’s authentic coal-fired recipes has led to increasing popularity across the nation. Anthony has a simple approach to his menu – use the highest quality ingredients and charge a fair price, including fresh dough made in-house every day, imported Italian plum tomatoes and the best mozzarella.

What are some upcoming plans for growth for the restaurant?
Due to increasing demand for our unique pizzas, Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza will be bringing its signature ‘well done’ taste directly to consumers through new ordering partnerships with leading third-party delivery providers Uber Eats, DoorDash, Delivery Dudes and GrubHub. The new partnerships will result in convenient, door-to- door delivery options across 55 markets nationwide.

What are some of the most popular items right now at Anthony’s?
Our guests LOVE our pizza, wings and meatballs. Together, these three items make up 58% of our sales. The Meatball & Ricotta Pizza is our number one selling pizza in our specialty pies category, however, don’t be too quick to overlook the Roasted Cauliflower, it’s amazing. The cauliflower is like something that you have never experienced before.

What about in Orlando, specifically?
Our top three items across all locations are consistently our pizza, wings and meatballs. However, Funky Buddha created a Red Ale just for Anthony’s called the Fuhgeddaboudit, and our guests in Orlando love it! They also love our Italian Beer – Peroni.

What are some upcoming menu changes and updates?
Shhhh it’s a secret so you did not hear this from me … Anthony’s has a simple approach, offer a few items and do them all really well. In the past 15 years, only a handful of items have made their way onto our simple, “well done” menu, however, we do see a need for some additional salads, desserts, possibly a couple of soups and maybe even a pasta!

What did Anthony do before his life in the pizza restaurant industry?
Anthony’s father started a restaurant called Runway 84 in Fort Lauderdale. Anthony grew up in the restaurant business, shadowing his father for years at Runway 84. When his dad passed in 1991, Anthony took over Runway 84 and still owns and operates the eatery today. Runway 84 has been around for 38 years and is a national landmark in the southern Florida area.

Tell us about the Eggplant Marino and how that came to be.
Dan Marino used to eat at Runway 84 before the first Anthony’s opened. Dan used to go to Runway after practices and games, and he wanted something a little lighter than your typical Eggplant parmesan loaded with breadcrumbs and heavy cheese. Anthony prepared the eggplant lightly dusted with flour (instead of breadcrumbs) and added sauce and Romano cheese (no heavy Mozzarella). Dan fell in love and Anthony named the dish “Eggplant Marino” when he opened the first Anthony’s in 2002 in Fort Lauderdale. Dan loved the entire Anthony’s concept and told Anthony he needed a location closer to where he lived, so Anthony and Dan partnered and started to open additional locations together.

There are two Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizzas in the Orlando area – one near Sand Lake Road and the other in Altamonte Springs. For more info, visit: https://acfp.com/locations/florida/

 

 

First Look: David Ramirez Chocolates

At David Ramirez Chocolates, it’s all about passion and perfection.  They place a high value on using the best ingredients available, sourced from across the globe.  Their goal is to bring you a superior product, and create an immersive and memorable culinary experience.  They approach every creation with a focus on quality and artistry.  Their team is trained in the old-world style, while incorporating innovative and pioneering techniques and flavors.  Whether you are looking for artisan chocolates, macarons, chocolate gifts, milkshakes, chocolate covered bacon, or event catering, they’ve got you covered.

David Ramirez Chocolates began in 2010 with just two employees: David Ramirez and Nicole Turner Ramirez.  They now they have two locations in Orlando and 42 employees.  Their flagship store is located just a few minutes away from the Ritz-Carlton and their second location is on Plant Street in Winter Garden.  David Ramirez also works at Rosen Shingle Creek as their only pastry chef.

A variety of artisan chocolates and macarons

Nicole Turner Ramirez

Gelato

For more information, please visit: davidramirezchocolates.com

Rosen Hotels & Resorts Chefs Prep for Christmas Brunch 2018

Meet Rosen Centre’s Everglades Head Chef Fred Vlachos, Banquet Chef Francis Daniels and Executive Chef Michael Rumplik

It’s the busiest time of the year for the chefs at Rosen Hotels & Resorts as they are preparing for their highly anticipated Christmas day brunch; one of the most spectacular brunches in town.  I got to sit down and chat with a few of the chefs at the hotels before I return next week to Rosen Centre with my family for their delicious and diverse Christmas day brunch.

You can find the dynamic duo Chef Fred Vlanchos & Chef Francis Daniels working all of the holiday brunches at Rosen Centre.  They have been working together at Rosen Centre for 13 years.  They first met when they were both working at Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin Resort.

What do you do for Christmas every year?  Every year on the 24th I have some friends coming over to my place and we celebrate and exchange gifts, lamb, turkey and Christmas cake that my wife makes. – Chef Francis Daniels

I’m so looking forward to having Christmas brunch here with my family.  What is your favorite dish? I love the carved turkey with the gravy and cornbread stuffing.  One of my favorites! – Chef Fred Vlanchos

What Christmas present do you want this year? For me the best present is when all of the family comes to the house.  For me, that’s the best thing. – Chef Michael Rumplik

Photo credit: Mary Deatrick

Rosen Centre Hotel’s Christmas Day Buffet is a special way to spend time with family while enjoying an incredible holiday feast!  An extensive buffet features holiday favorites such as roast turkey, candied yams, mashed potatoes and pineapple rum glazed ham, as well as unique dishes sure to become traditional favorites.  Seafood lovers enjoy a spiced shrimp boil and a sushi spread.  Be sure to make your own omelets and include Belgian waffles on your plate.  Save room for dessert!  Choices include Swiss sweets, all-American pumpkin pie, holiday cookies and cakes, flowing white and milk chocolate fountains and more.  Adults receive unlimited mimosas and champagne.  Take a stroll after and admire chef’s beautiful Gingerbread House on display, a sweet confection (pictured above).  Reserve your seats at the table today for this very popular holiday event.  Complimentary valet parking.

Christmas Buffet at Rosen Centre
Dec. 25, 11am – 5pm
9840 International Dr., Orlando, FL 32819
Price: $47.95* per person
Children ages 4-12: $18.95, children under 3: free
Complimentary champagne & mimosas
Free valet parking

*Christmas day only.  Reservations recommended.  Plus service charge and sales tax. Not valid with any other offers or discounts.

To make a reservation, please visit: RosenCentre.com/christmas/ or call (407) 996-8551

CHRISTMAS BUFFET MENU

SOUPS

  • Seafood Gumbo
  • Saffron Vegetable with Cannoli Beans

MARKET SALADS

  • Roasted Beets with Feta
  • Fresh Fruit Ambrosia with Honey & Coconut
  • Couscous Salad with Shrimp & Mint
  • Hearts of Palm with Grape Tomatoes
  • German Fingerling Potato Salad with Caraway & Bacon
  • Marinated Grilled Vegetable Salad with Fresh Dill & Feta

CHEESE & FRESH FRUITS

  • International and Domestic Cheese Display
  • Fresh Fruit & Berries Spectacular

ANTIPASTO DISPLAY

  • Featuring an Assortment of Freshly Grilled Red & Yellow Peppers, Portobello Mushrooms, Kalamata Olives, Beefsteak Tomato, Buffalo Mozzarella, Artichoke & Asparagus along with Freshly Marinated Calamari, Clams & Mussels
  • Prosciutto, Salami, Capicola, Mortadella, Assorted Italian Smoked Cheeses

SEAFOOD STATION

  • Crab Claws, Spiced Shrimp Boil with Lemon, Cocktail & Cajun Remoulade
  • Escabeche Marinated & Fried Mahi with Lemon & Lime
  • Lemon-Basil Shrimp Salad
  • Smoked Salmon with Classical Garnishes & Fresh Breads

BANSHOO

  • Chef Yoshi’s Spicy Tuna & California Rolls

HARRY’S

  • Shrimp Pinchos
  • Chipotle Spiced & Glazed with a Dark Rum Mango BBQ

PASTA BAR

  • Steamed Little Necks with Basil, Garlic, White Wine
  • Egg Tortellini with Shiitake Mushroom, Peas & Fresh Basil

ENTRÉES

  • Roasted Tom Turkey & Cranberry Sauce
  • Traditional Cornbread Dressing
  • Pan Seared Salmon with Roasted Fennel Cream
  • Tenderloin of Beef Tip with Pearl Onions
  • Candied Sweet Yam
  • Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes
  • Broccoli Au Gratin

CARVING STATION

  • Pineapple Rum Glazed Ham
  • Apricots & Figs

OMELET AND WAFFLE STATION

  • Belgium Waffle with Flavored Butters & Omelets Made-to-Order
  • Lemon Buttermilk Pancakes served with Country Sausage or Applewood Smoked Bacon
  • Eggs Benedict

SWEET INDULGENCE

  • Assorted Breakfast Danish, Croissants & Muffins
  • Warm Fresh Berry Chambord over Vanilla Ice Cream
  • White & Dark Chocolate Fountain with Fresh Pineapple, Strawberry and Marshmallows
  • Eggnog Cheesecake, Pumpkin Pie, Traditional Yule logs, Linzer Torte, White Chocolate Peppermint Mousse
  • Black Forest Cake, Chocolate Pecan Pie, French Pastries & Petits-Fours
  • Swiss Sweet Shots, Caramel Banana Bread Pudding, Ginger Bread Cheesecake
  • Bûche de Noel and Stollen
  • Spiced Egg Nog Caramel Flan

 

Meet Executive Chef Preston McCord from Clarion Inn Lake Buena Vista, a Rosen Hotel


This newly-hired Maryland native is bringing the cajun flavor to Christmas day brunch this year.  He is most looking forward to serving up his Maryland crab cakes, peppercorn-crusted beef tenderloin, ham, sweet potatoes, and a nice, flavorful mac & cheese that he keeps getting rave reviews about.

Christmas Day Buffet at Clarion Inn Lake Buena Vista, a Rosen Hotel
Dec. 25, 11am – 3pm
8442 Palm Parkway, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32836
Price: $32.99* per person
Florida Residents’ Discount: 25% off on adult meals, must present valid Florida state ID when paying.
Children ages 4-11: $13.99
Children under 3: FREE (limit one child per paying adult)
FREE wine & champagne
FREE self-parking
FREE transportation to Disney, Universal Studios, Seaworld and outlet malls

*Christmas day only.  Reservations recommended.  Plus service charge and sales tax.  Not valid with any other offers or discounts.

Fore more information or to make a reservation, please visit: clarionlbv.com/meetings-events/christmas/ or call 407-996-7236

CHRISTMAS DAY BUFFET MENU

SOUP & COLD DISPLAY

  • Broccoli cheddar soup
  • Cranberry salad with walnuts
  • Fruit salad
  • Gourmet cheese and cracker display
  • Ahi tuna with wasabi
  • Shrimp cocktail

SIDES

  • Fireside marshmallow sweet potatoes
  • Loaded mashed potatoes
  • Green bean almondine
  • Cheesy mac & cheese

ENTRÉES

  • Herb crusted mahi-mahi
  • Rustic chicken with garlic gravy
  • Maryland crab cakes

CARVING STATION

  • Honey ham
  • Peppercorn crusted beef with mushroom gravy

BUILD-YOUR-OWN PASTA STATION

KIDS’ PRIVATE BUFFET

  • Chicken fingers
  • French fries
  • Pasta marinara
  • Mac & cheese

DESSERTS

  • Apple pie à la mode
  • Jack Daniels chocolate cake
  • Lemon meringue pie
  • Christmas Jell-o®
  • Christmas cookies

DRINKS

  • Eggnog
  • Build-your-own hot chocolate bar
  • Coffee bar
  • Red or white wine

**Watch Executive Chef Preston McCord do a live Christmas cooking demonstration on FOX 35 WOFL this Saturday, Dec. 22 at 8am!**

Cocina 214 Celebrates National Sangria Day

One of the best days celebrated is National Sangria Day, which is December 20 this year.

Stop in at Cocina 214 in Winter Park or at Daytona Beach to enjoy their 2-for-1 sangria with the purchase of an entrée (limited 1 per person) AT ANY TIME OF THE DAY!

To enjoy my sangria, I also had some tamales on the side. What’s great about Cocina 214 tamales is how they have a great meat to masa ratio. The heat from the tamales is great and the best part of the dish, besides the meat to masa ratio.

There are a number of vegetarian options, including this mushroom quesadilla. If you want to add some head, ask for jalapeños because they’ll pack a punch. Their jalapeños are fresh as can be.

Don’t forget or skip dessert. The churros are pretty great and come with a sweet dip. Finally! After a year of waiting and hearing how great they are, I finally try these myself.

They’re slightly crunchy on the outside, but doughy on the inside. Yumm!

For more information, visit Cocina 214.

Breakfast with Santa at The Alfond Inn

Jolly Old St. Nick – Santa Claus – the patron saint of children everywhere, bringing gifts and merriment everywhere he goes. Who wouldn’t want to have breakfast with that guy?

We all know about The Hamilton Kitchen at The Alfond Inn, but did you know they also have a catering service on site? The team at The Alfond Inn decided to put on a Breakfast with Santa event this year just in time for the holidays – and for those family holiday postcard photos.

And after completely selling out their Dec. 9 Breakfast With Santa, the Alfond Inn at Rollins College in Winter Park added a second date for Breakfast With Santa on Dec. 16.

It’s a fun-filled family event that gives families an opportunity to take photos with Santa Claus while also enjoying a full breakfast buffet.

Plus, the event helps fund The Alfond Inn at Rollins College Scholars Program which awards Scholarships to deserving Rollins College Students. A great cause!

Full Breakfast Buffet with open seating included:

French Toast, Maple Syrup
Belgium Waffles, Bourbon Maple, Whipped Cream, Berries
Sausage, Egg and Cheese Strata
Scrambled Eggs
Ashville Breakfast Potatoes
Pecan Smoked Bacon
Spiral Glazed Ham carved by Chef
Fresh Fruit Platter
Greek Yogurt, Assorted Toppings
Assorted Danish, Breakfast Breads and Muffins
Hot Apple Cider, OJ, Grapefruit Juice, Tea, Coffee, Eggnog

It was our baby daughter’s very first time meeting Santa Claus so we weren’t quite sure what to expect. Her reactions were priceless.

Here are some of the scenes from our memorable Breakfast with Santa:

Croissants
Pecan Smoked Bacon

Ashville Breakfast Potatoes

French Toast
Honey ham

The Alfond Inn is located at 300 E. New England Ave., Winter Park.

First Look: Brunch at Yard House

Are you in a brunch rut?  There’s a new brunch in town that’s about to become your go-to choice!

Yard House – the modern American gathering place where beer and food lovers unite – just launched brunch exclusively at its Orlando location.  We were invited to Yard House at ICON Orlando 360 to taste the new brunch and everything we tried was so good.  The flavors were all on point.  It’s become our new favorite brunch in town.  Highly recommended!

The menu features both classic brunch options with modern twists and unique new dishes along with a bottomless drink package with entrée purchase.  Bottomless options include house beers, Bloody Marys and mimosas.  During brunch, the full menu and bar will also be available to order from.

Avocado Toast – toasted artisan bread, topped with smashed avocado, whipped feta, arugula and tomatoes.  It was the best avocado toast that I’ve ever had!

All-American Breakfast – choice of cage-free fried or scrambled cheese eggs, served with bacon, crispy ripped potatoes and grilled artisan bread.  So good.

Skirt Steak & Eggs – grilled skirt steak served with a choice of cage-free fried or scrambled cheese eggs, crispy ripped potatoes and grilled artisan bread

Be sure to check out the new brunch at Yard House!  It happens every Saturday & Sunday from 10am-2pm!

Yard House
8367 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819
(407) 351-8220
yardhouse.com

Liam Fitzpatrick’s NYE Block Party 2019

WHAT: Celebrate the New Year twice! Lake Mary is set to turn into Times Square with an iconic symbol to ring in the New Year as Liam Fitzpatrick’s Restaurant and Irish Pub invite Central Florida to count down to 2019 at their annual NYE Block Party with Colonial Town Park plaza neighbors Graffiti Junction and Dexter’s of Lake Mary.  Liam’s NYE Block Party will celebrate the New Year at 7pm and again at midnight to ring in the New Year in both Ireland and America.  Guests will also enjoy delicious Irish cuisine, drink specials, DJs spinning all night and Liam’s highly-anticipated “Shamrock Drop” countdown outside the plaza.

HOW:  Visit www.LakeMaryBlockParty.com for General Admission and VIP tickets.  Liam’s NYE Block Party also supports Orlando City Youth Soccer, the preeminent youth club in Central Florida, whose core values are player development, parental guidance, coaches education and community outreach.

WHEN:  Monday, December 31, 2018 from 8pm to 2am.

WHERE:  Liam Fitzpatrick’s Restaurant and Irish Pub, Colonial Town Park, 951 Market Promenade Ave., Suite 1115, Lake Mary, FL 32746.

WHY:  Liam Fitzpatrick’s is carrying on the two-hundred-year-old tradition of great Irish pubs while keeping a strong commitment to the Central Florida community with a hearty mix of Irish food favorites and more, an extensive menu of quality beers and spirits, warm and friendly hospitality, great music and conversation, a stellar weekly entertainment lineup and of course its spectacular annual block parties.

WHO:  Successfully operating since April of 2008, Liam Fitzpatrick’s welcomes guests with it traditional Irish pub exterior, rich wood furnishings and accents, large dining room, fully stocked bar and pub area and private dining room.  Lively and festive day to late night, Liam’s provides the perfect setting for any occasion whether it’s a business lunch, a gathering with old friends or a celebration with new ones.  With a wide-ranging menu of great home-cooked food to suit every taste and pouring some of the best beers and wines in the world, Liam’s delivers an unmatched experience in the warmest hospitality.  Liam’s is open daily for lunch, dinner and happy hour and Saturday and Sunday brunch.  For more information, call 407-936-3782 or visit www.liamfitzpatricks.com.

First Look: Steak on Fire

We were invited to check out Steak on Fire located on Sand Lakes Road’s Restaurant Row, neighbors to Vines Grille & Wine Bar.

Steak on Fire is a Brazilian steakhouse that serves sandwiches and plates in a fast-casual environment.  It’s counter service, so you order at the register and they deliver your food to your table–but the food is of a sit-down restaurant quality.  They also offer complimentary guest Wi-Fi which came in very handy while we were waiting for our food to arrive.

Filet mignon with chimichurri sauce, roasted vegetables and potatoes.  Great flavors.  Every bite was perfectly seasoned.

Grilled shrimps with a delicious tartar sauce, roasted vegetables and potatoes.  It was the best grilled shrimp & tartar sauce that I’ve ever had!  So juicy and the flavors were on point.

Steak on Fire
7541 Sand Lake Rd, Orlando, FL 32819
(407) 440-232
steakonfire.com

Christmas Day Buffet at Rosen Centre

Every year my family eats Christmas day buffet at one of the Rosen Hotels & Resorts.  The picture above was taken with Mr. Rosen himself at Rosen Centre’s Christmas day buffet in 2016.  We will be returning back to Rosen Centre this year for their Christmas day buffet and we are super excited.  We hope to see you all there!

Rosen Centre Hotel’s Christmas Day Buffet is a special way to spend time with family while enjoying an incredible holiday feast!  An extensive buffet features holiday favorites such as roast turkey, candied yams, mashed potatoes and pineapple rum glazed ham, as well as unique dishes sure to become traditional favorites.  Seafood lovers enjoy a spiced shrimp boil and a sushi spread.  Be sure to make your own omelets and include Belgian waffles on your plate.  Save room for dessert!  Choices include Swiss sweets, all-American pumpkin pie, holiday cookies and cakes, flowing white and milk chocolate fountains and more.  Adults receive unlimited mimosas and champagne.  Take a stroll after and admire chef’s beautiful Gingerbread House on display, a sweet confection.  Reserve your seats at the table today for this very popular holiday event.  Complimentary valet parking.

Christmas Buffet at Rosen Centre
Dec. 25, 11am – 5pm
9840 International Dr., Orlando, FL 32819
Price: $47.95* per person
Children ages 4-12: $18.95, children under 3: free
Complimentary champagne & mimosas
Free valet parking

*Christmas day only.  Reservations recommended.  Plus service charge and sales tax. Not valid with any other offers or discounts.

To make a reservation, please visit: RosenCentre.com/christmas/ or call (407) 996-8551

CHRISTMAS BUFFET MENU

SOUPS

  • Seafood Gumbo
  • Saffron Vegetable with Cannoli Beans

MARKET SALADS

  • Roasted Beets with Feta
  • Fresh Fruit Ambrosia with Honey & Coconut
  • Couscous Salad with Shrimp & Mint
  • Hearts of Palm with Grape Tomatoes
  • German Fingerling Potato Salad with Caraway & Bacon
  • Marinated Grilled Vegetable Salad with Fresh Dill & Feta

CHEESE & FRESH FRUITS

  • International and Domestic Cheese Display
  • Fresh Fruit & Berries Spectacular

ANTIPASTO DISPLAY

  • Featuring an Assortment of Freshly Grilled Red & Yellow Peppers, Portobello Mushrooms, Kalamata Olives, Beefsteak Tomato, Buffalo Mozzarella, Artichoke & Asparagus along with Freshly Marinated Calamari, Clams & Mussels
  • Prosciutto, Salami, Capicola, Mortadella, Assorted Italian Smoked Cheeses

SEAFOOD STATION

  • Crab Claws, Spiced Shrimp Boil with Lemon, Cocktail & Cajun Remoulade
  • Escabeche Marinated & Fried Mahi with Lemon & Lime
  • Lemon-Basil Shrimp Salad
  • Smoked Salmon with Classical Garnishes & Fresh Breads

BANSHOO

  • Chef Yoshi’s Spicy Tuna & California Rolls

HARRY’S

  • Shrimp Pinchos
  • Chipotle Spiced & Glazed with a Dark Rum Mango BBQ

PASTA BAR

  • Steamed Little Necks with Basil, Garlic, White Wine
  • Egg Tortellini with Shiitake Mushroom, Peas & Fresh Basil

ENTRÉES

  • Roasted Tom Turkey & Cranberry Sauce
  • Traditional Cornbread Dressing
  • Pan Seared Salmon with Roasted Fennel Cream
  • Tenderloin of Beef Tip with Pearl Onions
  • Candied Sweet Yam
  • Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes
  • Broccoli Au Gratin

CARVING STATION

  • Pineapple Rum Glazed Ham
  • Apricots & Figs

OMELET AND WAFFLE STATION

  • Belgium Waffle with Flavored Butters & Omelets Made-to-Order
  • Lemon Buttermilk Pancakes served with Country Sausage or Applewood Smoked Bacon
  • Eggs Benedict

SWEET INDULGENCE

  • Assorted Breakfast Danish, Croissants & Muffins
  • Warm Fresh Berry Chambord over Vanilla Ice Cream
  • White & Dark Chocolate Fountain with Fresh Pineapple, Strawberry and Marshmallows
  • Eggnog Cheesecake, Pumpkin Pie, Traditional Yule logs, Linzer Torte, White Chocolate Peppermint Mousse
  • Black Forest Cake, Chocolate Pecan Pie, French Pastries & Petits-Fours
  • Swiss Sweet Shots, Caramel Banana Bread Pudding, Ginger Bread Cheesecake
  • Bûche de Noel and Stollen
  • Spiced Egg Nog Caramel Flan

Christmas Day Dinner at Rosen Centre’s Harry’s Poolside Bar & Grill

A real gingerbread house can be found in the lobby at Rosen Centre next to Harry’s Poolside Bar & Grill

Celebrate Christmas with a delightfully unique holiday meal at Harry’s Poolside Bar & Grill.  With this four-course, prix fixe dining experience, you will have a choice of enticing starters, Harry’s salad or seafood gumbo, and an entrée that could be traditional roasted turkey, pineapple rum glazed ham, or pan seared salmon and rock shrimp, all with tantalizing sides.  Finish with a choice of delicious desserts – eggnog cheesecake, pumpkin pie or Black Forest cake.  A children’s and ala carte menu also are available.  The meal includes a choice of soft drink or coffee and a glass of sparkling wine.  Reservations are recommended.  Menu below.

To make a reservation, please visit: RosenCentre.com/christmas/ or call (407) 996-3970.

Christmas Day Dinner at Harry’s Poolside Bar & Grill
Dec. 25, 11am-7pm
9840 International Dr., Orlando, FL 32819
$26.95 per person, plus service charge & sales tax, complimentary parking is included.

STARTER 
Select one:

  • Shrimp Pinchos – Chipotle Spiced & Glazed with a Dark Rum Mango BBQ
  • Oh My “Gorgonzola” Dip – Caramelized Onions, Garlic, Roasted Tomatoes & Artichokes Served with Baked Roti Bread

APPETIZER
Select a cup of soup or salad:

  • Seafood Gumbo
  • Harry’s Salad – Baby Greens with Mixed Fresh Berries Drizzled with Olive Oil & Balsamic

ENTRÉE
Select one:

  • Traditional Roast Turkey – Cornbread Dressing, Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes & Fresh Sautéed Green Beans
  • Pan Seared Salmon & Rock Shrimp – Roasted Fennel Cream Sauce, Coconut Rice & Baby Carrots
  • Pineapple Rum Glazed Ham Apricots & Figs – Roasted Fingerling Potatoes & Grilled Asparagus

DESSERT
Select one:

  • Eggnog Cheesecake
  • Pumpkin Pie
  • Black Forest Cake

Sofrito Latin Cafe

Mini Arepa, Tostones Sandwich and Cuban Sandwich

We were invited to a media event at Sofrito Latin Cafe, located just a few minutes from Disney Springs.  Sofrito Latin Cafe serves different Latin dishes from different regions.  Ordering takes place at the front counter and then they deliver it to your table.  Sofrito has a variety of board games, old hispanic books and free WiFi so you can hangout in the restaurant for a while.  They believe that their restaurant is not just a business; but rather a place where everyone can feel at home and belong.  The staff was very welcoming and accommodating.  The mini flour tequeños are my newest cheesy addiction.

Passion Fruit Juice & Guava Juice

Mini Flour Tequeños – Fried cheese sticks. Served with your choice of garlic-cilantro sauce, guava sauce or cream. (Venezuela)

Mini Corn Tequeños – Fried cheese sticks. Served with your choice of garlic-cilantro sauce, guava sauce or cream. (Venezuela)

Orlando influencer, David Manor, with his cheesy tequeños

Ham Croquettes – Fried potato roll stuffed with ham. (Puerto Rico)

Colombian Empanada – Fried corn-flour empanada filled with beef, potatoes & spices. (Colombia)

Sofrito Latin Cafe
8607 Palm Pkwy, Orlando, FL 32836
(407) 778-4205
sofritocafe.com

Canvas Restaurant & Market – Lake Nona

STEAK FRITES – 8 oz oak grilled petite beef tender, French fries, garlic-herb butter, arugula salad & Tom Fruin’s stained glass house in the background.

We were invited to have lunch at the popular Canvas Restaurant & Market located in Lureate Park in Lake Nona.  The Canvas Restaurant menu features new American cuisine influenced by Florida’s Southern and Latin American roots.  Executive Chef Jason Bergeron focuses on seasonal and regional produce as well as an abundance of fresh, Florida seafood.  Our lunch was delicious and the service & ambiance was perfect.

The zen view from where I was sitting inside the restaurant.  My friend witnessed a bird swooping up a fish out of the lake while I was taking pictures around the restaurant.  Nature doesn’t get any better than that!

CALAMARI FRIES – buttermilk marinade, roasted red pepper aioli.  So good.

HABANERO GLAZED CHICKEN WINGS – clover honey, lime zest, garlic-buttermilk dipping sauce.  Thick and crispy.


TOASTED CUBANO – slow-roasted mojo pork belly, house-cured Canadian bacon, Swiss, housemade garlic-dill pickles, Dijonmayo, yuca fries.  One of the better Cubans that I’ve had.  The yuca fries comes coated in sauce but you can order them without sauce if you like them more on the crispier side, which I personally prefer.


LOBSTER ROLL – 
mango dressing, buttered roll

Red velvet cheesecake with chocolate peppermint bark, a delicious seasonal dessert.

Canvas Restaurant & Market
13615 Sachs Avenue, Orlando, FL 32827
(407) 313-7800
canvaslakenona.com

 

Holiday Desserts and Drinks at Universal Orlando

Here’s your guide on where to find holiday desserts and drinks at Universal Orlando!  The desserts are made fresh daily by R & D Chef Robert Martinez Jr. and his pastry team.

Holiday Desserts:

  • Red Velvet Yule Log – You can find a slice at Croissant Moon Bakery in Universal’s Islands of Adventure, as well as the Beverly Hills Boulangerie and San Francisco Pastry Company in Universal Studios Florida

  • Apple Strudel on a Stick – Drizzled with Christmas color frosting, this apple strudel on a stick is a must! Found at Croissant Moon Bakery in Universal’s Islands of Adventure, as well as the Beverly Hills Boulangerie and San Francisco Pastry Company in Universal Studios Florida

Additional treats: Reindeer cupcakes, waffles on a stick, cheesecakes, ribbon pastries and a variety of sugar cookies (found in multiple locations around the parks)

  • Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen Holiday Treats – Unique holiday treats are featured at the display case in Toothsome. Items include: Candy Cane Cheesecake Truffle Pop, Chocolate Dipped Bacon with red and green sprinkles, Snickerdoodle Macaron, Peppermint Cheesecake Macaron, Cranberry Cheesecake Macaron, Spiced Cranberry Truffle Cake, Peppermint Gingerbread Artisan Cake, Snickerdoodle Truffle, Peppermint Cheesecake Chocolate Shots, Eggnog Specialty Chocolate, Candy Cane Cheesecake Specialty Chocolate

Festive Sips:

  • Cranberry Margarita – Can be found at Finnegan’s Bar & Grill in Universal Studios Florida and Mythos in Universal’s Islands of Adventure

o   Ingredients: Tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice and cranberry juice shaken and served on the rocks. Garnish with a lime wedge, fresh cranberries and a sugar/salt rim

  • Pumpkintini – Can be found at Mythos in Universal’s Islands of Adventure

o   Ingredients: Dark rum, orange liqueur, apple cider and pumpkin puree garnished with a cinnamon sugar rim

  • Apple Cider Irish Mule – Can be found at Lombard’s Seafood Restaurant in Universal Studios Florida

o   Ingredients: Irish whiskey stirred with apple cider, topped with ginger beer and a cinnamon stick and apple slices for garnish

  • Harvest Margarita – Can be found at Confisco Grille at Universal’s Islands of Adventure

o   Ingredients: Tequila, Cointreau, nectar agave, apple cider, pumpkin puree, lime juice. Garnished with a cinnamon sugar rim

  • Apple Pie on the Rocks – Can be found at Finnegan’s Bar & Grill in Universal Studios Florida

o   Ingredients: Vanilla vodka, apple juice and cinnamon

  • Jack Frost – Can be found at Lombard’s Seafood Restaurant in Universal Studios Florida and Confisco Grille in Universal’s Islands of Adventure

o   Ingredients: Vodka, prosecco mixed with lemonade and a sugar rim

Non-alcoholic options:

o   Hot Butterbeer – a seasonal favorite found in both Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley

o   Candy Cane Frozen Beverage – served park wide at the food & drink carts

o   Eggnog Frozen Beverage – served park wide at the food & drink carts

Universal Orlando
6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819
(407) 363-8000
universalorlando.com

 

First Look: Chef Wolfgang Puck opens brand new Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill in Disney Springs

We were invited to celebrate the grand opening of Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill at Disney Springs with a ribbon cutting ceremony with Chef Wolfgang Puck.

The morning started with Chef Wolfgang Puck trying out all the flavors of gelato for “quality control” he said while handing out a few cones to some lucky guests walking by.

Indonesian vanilla gelato with sprinkles for breakfast.  It was so good.  I can’t wait to go back and try the other flavors!

Ribbon cutting ceremony time!  There was actually two ribbon cuttings that morning – the first one was for the public & the second one was for media only.

Chef Wolfgang Puck cuts the ribbon with Executive Chef Mike Tiva and General Manger Sarah Lealock

Chef Wolfgang Puck cuts the ribbon with the Vice President of Disney Springs, Matt Simon and Chef Mickey

Time to eat!

Sliders

Salmon bruschetta

Shrimp skewers

Mushroom bruschetta

Margherita pizza

Smoked salmon pizza

Basil shrimp pizza

Tempura calamari & shrimp with preserved lemon aioli.  It was the best tempura calamari & shrimp that I’ve ever had!

Grilled sea bass – shaved fennel, peperonata

Mesquite grilled NY strip “steak frites” – crisp french fries, arugula, green peppercorn sauce.  So good.

Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill takes the culinary scene at Disney Springs to a whole ‘nother level.  Highly recommended!

For more information, please visit: disneysprings.com/dining/wolfgang-puck-bar-grill/

Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill – Disney Springs
1780 Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
(407) 828-0107

 

Special Dinner Event: Feast of the Seven Fishes at Reel Fish Coastal Kitchen & Bar – Dec. 24

The second annual Feast of the Seven Fishes dinner at Reel Fish Coastal Kitchen & Bar in Winter Park returns on Monday, Dec. 24.  The Christmas Eve extravaganza will begin at 6:30 p.m. and is limited to the first 50 guests.  This special 7-course prix fixe menu will feature all-inclusive new world and old world wine pairings.   Reel Fish will also be open from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Dec. 24 offering its regular dinner service.

Tickets to are $69 per person (plus tax + gratuity) and can be reserved by calling (407) 543-FISH (3474).

In the spirit of holiday giving, Reel Fish Coastal Kitchen & Bar will donate 10% of the dinner’s proceeds to the Coastal Conservation Association.

*Menu and wines subject to change based on availability*

Feast of the Seven Fishes is a tradition that originated in Southern Italy and is celebrated on Christmas Eve with a 7-course seafood dinner to commemorate the wait of the midnight birth of baby Jesus.  Because Christmas Eve is a vigil or fasting day,  the abundance of seafood reflects the observance of abstinence from meat until the feast of Christmas Day itself.

Owner Fred Thimm (right) and James Gallagher from Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits who personally went over each wine with us.

Octopus Ceviche

Shrimp Mac & Cheese

Baked Clams Casino


Whiskey Shrimp – Wild-Caught Key West Pink Shrimp with Jack Daniels Cream Sauce on Sour Dough

Seafood Nachos – Blue Crab & Crawfish, House-Made Wontons

Whole Fried Hog Fish (pictured – so good!) and Genuine American Red Snapper with Smothered Tomatoes & Okra

Gulf Oysters Shooters featuring Tito’s Vodka

Cioppino – Clams, Shrimp, Scallops, Grouper, Tomato Broth over Linguine

Mike’s Famous Carrot Cake.  This was the best carrot cake I’ve ever had in my life!

Seven-Layer Chocolate Cake

Chef Mike served up a wonderful Feast of the Seven Fishes dinner with his own personal flair.

Reel Fish is celebrating the holidays with a variety of other festive specials, including:

  • Get a FREE $10 bonus gift card for every $50 in gift cards purchased.
  • Book a group dinner with 15 or more guests and receive a 10% discount AND $10 gift card for each person in their party.  To book a holiday party contact Fred Thimm at (202) 957-7377 or fred@reelfishcoastal.com.
  • Reel Fish Coastal Kitchen + Bar will feature a live DJ, food & drink specials and a midnight Champagne toast to ring in the New Year on Dec. 31.
  • New Fall/Winter menu featuring fresh local fish, signature salads and additional non-seafood options like all-natural Creekstone Farms steaks and FreeBird chicken.

Reel Fish Coastal Kitchen & Bar
1234 N. Orange Ave, Winter Park, FL
reelfishcoastal.com