Sofra Mediterranian Grill – International Drive

Tiffany Nguyen

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May 1, 2018

Sofra Mediterranian Grill – International Drive

We were invited to check out Sofra Mediterranian Grill located next to The Orlando Eye and we really enjoyed our visit. The food had a lot of flavor, the staff was nice and engaging, and the restaurant was relaxing and beautiful. I highly recommend this restaurant to everyone!

Happy Hour is from 4pm-7pm every day. Enjoy 1/2 off hand-crafted cocktails, $4 beer, and $4 shooters.

Hummus with fresh baked pita (a must!)

Family platter (really flavorful!)

Zaatar manakish

Chocolate lava cake

Be sure to check out Sofra Mediterranian Grill next to The Orlando Eye soon for some flavorful food and a welcoming atmosphere!

Sofra Mediterranian Grill
8371 International Dr #60, Orlando, FL 32819
(407) 930-8645
http://soframediterraneangrill.com

deep blu seafood grille at Wyndham Grand Bonnet Creek

Tiffany Nguyen

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Apr 30, 2018

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Loaded Lobster – 1/2 maine lobster, seafood stuffing, parmesan, breadcrumbs béarnaise sauce

Thank you Orlando magazine for hosting us at deep blu seafood grille at Wyndham Grand Bonnet Creek for a delicious 7-course seafood culinary adventure. We enjoyed diving deep into their new menu and meeting their new head chef, Chef Wade McLamb.

Gazpacho soup

Grilled Florida Peach & Burrata Salad – pickled blueberries, fennel, crispy country ham, honey truffle vinaigrette

Black & blu Linguine – vita squid ink pasta, jumbo lump blu crab, arugula, cherry tomatoes, marcona almonds, parmigiana

Loaded Lobster – 1/2 maine lobster, seafood stuffing, parmesan, breadcrumbs béarnaise sauce

Scalloped potato

George’s Banks Scallops – corn risotto, smoked tomato jam, crispy black eye peas

Red Snapper – local sweet corn succotash, baby herb salad, basil vinaigrette

Ora King Salmon – red quinoa, black eyed pea fritter, cucumber mint crème fraiche

Banana Pudding – Key Lime Pie Pana Cotta, graham shortbread, toasted meringue

Two hardworking chefs, Chef Ryan Cole and Chef Wade McLamb.

deep blu seafood grille at Wyndham Grand Bonnet Creek
14651 Chelonia Pkwy Orlando, FL 32821
(407) 390-2420
deepbluorlando.com

Use promo code “Grand Experience” when making reservations for a free dessert or appetizer with the purchase of two dinner entrees (Limit 1 coupon per 2 adults |Valid 5/1/2018-5/31/2018).

4 Rivers Smokehouse Feeds “March of the Bull, My Brother’s Burden” Participants

Orlando

Ricky Ly

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Apr 30, 2018

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4 Rivers Smokehouse Feeds “March of the Bull, My Brother’s Burden” Participants

Led by retired Orange County Firefighter Tom “Bull” Hill, a group of firefighters, first responders, family and friends are walking 640 miles from Key West to Tallahassee to raise awareness about firefighters who develop terminal cancer as a result of their lifesaving work.

Hill is fulfilling a promise he made to two of his firefighter friends before they died from cancer – to make a difference. Along the way, firefighters and their families and friends give him personal items — badges, name tags, obituaries, even fellow firefighter’s ashes — to carry in his backpacks.

To support marchers along the 640-mile route, 4 Rivers Smokehouse treated a group of 250 participants to lunch at its Winter Garden Smokehouse on April 20, one month after the long walk began.

The award-winning Central Florida-based restaurant group will also host meals at its Gainesville and Tallahassee Smokehouses when the “March of the Bull, My Brother’s Burden” walkers reach those cities.

“The core of the 4 Rivers brand is rooted in supporting the communities that support us and we’ve had the honor to help many firefighters, police officers and first responders over the years,” said John Rivers, 4R Restaurant Group Founder/CEO. “Tom ‘Bull’ Hill is showing remarkable commitment to raise awareness for a righteous cause and we’re happy to show our support along his journey.”

Hill, who is making the walk despite two knee replacements, aims to collect 50,000 signatures on a petition to let him speak before the Florida Senate in Tallahassee. The marchers want lawmakers to pass legislation recognizing that certain types of cancer and other medical conditions can be brought on by circumstances directly related to a firefighter’s everyday efforts in the line of duty.

Florida is one of just 20 states that does not officially recognize the health issues faced by firefighters. Follow the journey here: https://www.facebook.com/mybrothersburdenwalk/

The Occasional Vegan at Dixie Dharma and Valhalla Bakery

Dana Spencer

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Apr 30, 2018

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The Occasional Vegan at Dixie Dharma and Valhalla Bakery

I’m worried about my husband. A couple weeks ago, he ate at a vegan restaurant…and liked it. Last week, he made a sandwich with vegan cheese and vegan mayonnaise. But, it wasn’t until he came home with vegan bacon from Publix, that I knew he had truly gone to the dark side. This may not seem suspicious to most, but this is coming from a man who rolls his eyes when I suggest humus as an appetizer, and who proudly wears a t-shirt with the phrase Part Wolf embroidered on the front. So, twenty questions later, the five stages of grief behind me, I now accept the fact that my husband isn’t a complete traitor, he just simply likes eating vegan (on occasion). Hey, I can be vegan too (on occasion), and after eating at Dixie Dharma and Valhalla Bakery, I can eat vegan AND love it!

Dixie Dharma and Valhalla Bakery are both located inside Market on South in Downtown Orlando on South Street. I had the pleasure of trying Dixie Dharma’s Beet Tartare during the Beard in Baldwin event a few weeks ago, and I immediately knew I would visit the establishment soon (don’t tell my husband). To my over-joyed surprise, upon entering Market on South, I also found Valhalla Bakery (I stalk their donuts on Instagram). My vegan dreams came true: dinner and dessert! Now, this was by far not a date night. In a moment of sheer insanity, my husband and I decided to go as a family of four. Our ten-year-old son is an adventurous eater, but our seven-year-old daughter is not. Our chances of a happy dinner is always 50/50. Thankfully, Market on South is a kid-friendly environment with inside and outside seating, and tons of local craft beer and wine to choose from. Which is exactly what we ordered first: Quantum Leap Winery Kaley’s Rescue Red and Quantum Leap Winery Garda White. Both drinks were the rescue we needed. The red and the white are smooth and easy on the palate, with no bitter aftertaste. Thank you, Market on South, for a heavy pour (see…kid-friendly).

Quantum Leap Winery Garda White, Quantum Leap Winery Kaley’s Rescue Red

While we sipped on wine and the kids drank their Martinelli’s Gold Medal Apple Juice in the old-school glass bottle (the kids loved this), we decided on dinner. Thankfully, Dixie Dharma offers vegan hotdogs. A perfect choice for my picky-eater! But, will she be fooled…stay tuned. My son, a huge lover of chili, cheese dogs, ordered the HillBilly Chili Dawgs. My husband (#1 healthy eater) ordered four Nopales Tacos, and I ordered the Florida Fried Green Tomato (the secret’s in the sauce…get it?). Our meals would not be complete without sides. Dixie Dharma offers three different versions of mac and cheese: original, garlic, and buffalo. We decided on the original and buffalo, plus a side of Crispy Brussels and Cheesy Homies. Don’t forget: everything you are about to see is 100% vegan.

HillBilly Chili Dawgs with Cheesy Homies

Florida Fried Green Tomato with Crispy Brussels and Original Mac and Cheese

My son’s chili dogs (of course I had a taste), were no ordinary hotdogs. Two vegan, not-dogs in pretzel buns, covered in house-made, Indian-spiced, chili and cheese sauce, with blackened onion and scallions. The chili alone was amazing! It was spicy but also sweet, and I loved the texture of the hearty beans. After two chili dogs, my son tapped-out (a win for my husband and I), and we finished off his side of Cheesy Homies. I need a bigger plate of these. Imagine a bowl of mini baked potatoes covered in cheese…and then imagine yourself smiling.

Tacos with jackfruit and cactus…any takers? I know that sounds crazy, but, it’s truly delicious, and it completely satisfied my need for meat. My taste buds were fooled! The Nopales Tacos are made with jackfruit carnitas, smoked Nopales cactus, blackened onions and corn, chili lime aioli, and pickled radish on a grilled corn shell. I love tacos: steak, chicken, fish, and now…jackfruit and cactus! I am simply amazed by the taste of these tacos. The jackfruit and cactus is tenderly cooked and shredded, creating a perfect bed for the crunchy pickled radish and tangy aioli. These are no dainty tacos, they are filling. We mistakenly ordered more than we had room for…but guess who is having them for lunch tomorrow…me (I bet you guessed my husband).

Finally, on to my dish: the Florida Fried Green Tomato. A delicious sandwich of Texas toast, thick-sliced green tomato, breaded, and deep-fried, with smoked, eggplant remoulade, toped with garlicky kale and the house chow-chow. Crunchy and tender at the same time. The tomato is sweet and lightly breaded, giving it an airy feeling instead of the greasy, fried food effect. My husband liked this sandwich so much, he finished one of my halves (and that’s why I’m eating his leftover tacos). My side of mac and cheese, made with creamy cashew, was silky and velvety, cheesy-perfection, with a crunchy, bread crumb topping. The Buffalo Mac and Cheese was just as good as the original, but with a spicy kick from the buffalo sauce. The Crispy Brussels were also outstanding! Charred in all the right places, mush-free (is that a word), without the bitter aftertaste some brussels sprouts dishes can have. Honestly, I know brussels sprouts get a bum rap, but Dixie Dharma does them proud. So, did we enjoy our dinner? Was my daughter fooled by her vegan hotdog? What do you think:

Obviously, we loved our dinner at Dixie Dharma, and we will return, more than just occasionally. Dinner is done, but there is always room for dessert! My son, who couldn’t eat another bite, mysteriously had room for a S’mores Bar, while the rest of us shared Coconut Cream Pie and a Sprinkled Vanilla Cupcake. All egg free, dairy free, and vegan (not gluten free…that’s a whole other conversation). Thank you, Valhalla Bakery, for these fantastic goodies! I was shocked by the amount of sweets to choose from: cookies, brownies, blondies, doughnuts, pies, cakes, cupcakes, you name it!

S’mores Bar and Sprinkle Vanilla Cupcake

My poor son, we all had a couple bites of his S’mores Bar, which was chocolatey, chewy goodness. The Coconut Cream Pie was luscious and rich, and refreshingly not too sweet. Our Sprinkle Vanilla Cupcake had the perfect amount of thick, vanilla frosting, to match the spongey, vanilla cake. It had the ideal frosting to cake ratio. By the way, when it comes to sweets, my daughter is adventurous (she tried all three desserts without being asked, and loved them all).

No, I’m not a true vegan (neither is my husband, don’t let him fool you), but I am a fan of creative and tasty dishes…which Dixie Dharma and Valhalla Bakery have mastered with their vegan fare. Therefore, I am a huge fan of Market on South, and I am greatly looking forward to my next meal there (sans kids).

Orlando Meats – Butcher shop and Restaurant – Ivanhoe District

Orlando

Ricky Ly

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Apr 29, 2018

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Orlando Meats – Butcher shop and Restaurant – Ivanhoe District

Orlando Meats is a family-owned, whole animal butcher shop and restaurant born out of a deep appreciation for good food.

The Butcher Shop
Orlando Meats sources proteins locally (within 250 miles) from farms that follow organic practices, raise their animals on pasture, and provide natural diets to produce the best quality meat. They purchase half or whole carcasses and break them down in their butcher shop, utilizing the entire animal. As a nose-to-tail operation, they carry everything from popular steak cuts, to fat, bones, and organ meat.

The Restaurant Half
The other half of Orlando Meats is a fast casual eatery serving breakfast and lunch dishes crafted by their talented cooks, using mostly local and seasonal ingredients in addition to the pasture-raised meats from their butcher. Breakfast served 8am-11am. Lunch served 11am-close. Brunch served Sunday all day.

Orlando Meats – Ivanhoe District
728 Virginia Dr, Orlando, FL 32803
http://orlandomeats.com/

Drive Shack opens their very first location in Lake Nona

Tiffany Nguyen

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Apr 29, 2018

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Drive Shack opens their very first location in Lake Nona

Orlando’s new premier golf-entertainment destination has arrived! Drive Shack – a three-story, indoor/outdoor all-weather golf-entertainment complex pairing the most advanced golf games and technology with good eats, cold drinks, and long drives is now opened in Lake Nona’s vibrant Sports and Performance District. Drive Shack’s flagship location features 90 hitting bays with a 220-yard range, a full-service restaurant and bar, an outdoor lounge, three fully equipped meeting and event rooms for parties up to 1,000, and a complimentary game lounge with classic games like shuffleboard, skee-ball, basketball arcade and Pac-Man.

Orlando is home to the very first Drive Shack. Additional locations are expected to open in Raleigh, N.C., Richmond, Va., West Palm Beach, Fla., Marietta, Ga., and New Orleans, La.

Below are some pictures from our media preview visit. The brunch menu is available from 9am-11am on the weekdays, 9am-2pm on the weekends.

Deep-dish spinach quiche – spinach and Swiss cheese quiche in a rustic buttery crust

Skillet baked cinnamon buns – hot & fresh from the oven drizzled with icing

Loaded morning tots – crispy tater tots, melted cheddar cheese blend, bacon crumbles, and green onions topped with a sunny side up egg

Chocolate chip pancakes – fluffy pancakes sprinkled with chocolate chips, topped with whipped cream and strawberries, and served with maple syrup

Truffled tots

Grilled chicken breast slider – Swiss cheese, tomato, and lemon aioli

Classic all-beef slider – cheddar cheese, DS secret sauce, and a dill pickle

Complimentary game lounge

Outdoor bar

The meats flatbread – Italian-style, all-beef meatballs, chunky pork sausage, pepperoni, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil

Maple bourbon bacon wings – delightfully sticky with a savory, sweet fin

Bavarian pretzel sticks – fresh from the oven sprinkled with crunchy salt, served with tangy honey mustard and rich pimento cheese dips

Gardender’s Cup & Bushwood Clubhouse

The veggies flatbread – red and green peppers, Kalamata olives, caramelized onions, and marinara sauce with mozzarella and ricotta cheeses

Mediterranean dips & veggies – Garlic hummus and tzatziki dips with fresh-baked pita chips, crisp cucumber, bell pepper, and grape tomatoes

Stacked nachos – freshly made tortilla chips topped with melted cheese, black beans, pico de Gallo, sour cream, jalapeños, green onions, salsa, and guacamole

Mahi tacos – three grilled flour tortillas with blackened mahi-mahi, cider slaw, and cilantro lime aioli

Hole in one – cheddar cheeseburger loaded with crisp applewood-smoked bacon, a fried egg, shredded lettuce, and tomato, topped with our housemate bacon-tomato-onion jam and avocado mayo with French fri

Bucket of balls – Italian-style, all-beef meatballs in a zesty marinara sauce, served with toasted garlic bread and grated Parmesan cheese, and topped with fresh torn basil

Rocky road parfait – chocolate pudding layered with toasted marshmallow, chocolate cookie crumbles, and salted peanuts topped with chocolate sauce

Strawberry shortcake parfait – shortcake layered with fresh strawberries and whipped cream

Salted butterscotch parfait – salted butterscotch pudding with gingersnap cookie crumbles, layered with whipped cream and caramel sauce

Churros – hot and crispy then dusted with cinnamon sugar and served with a warm chocolate sauce

Be sure to check out the new Drive Shack – Lake Nona soon! It’s so much fun!

(Source credit: Drive Shack)

Drive Shack – Lake Nona
7285 Corner Dr, Orlando, FL 32827
driveshack.com
(407) 553-8820

First Look: Inside California Tortilla in Downtown Orlando

Orlando

Ricky Ly

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Apr 28, 2018

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First Look: Inside California Tortilla in Downtown Orlando

We take a first look inside California Tortilla, a fast-casual Mexican-inspired restaurant, that recently opened a new location in downtown Orlando right on our iconic Church Street.

California Tortilla serves fresh, made-to-order burritos, bowls, street tacos, quesadillas and salads.

California Tortilla also features a Wall-of-Flame containing over 75 spice options ranging from mild to extreme.

California Tortilla in Orlando is located at 54 West Church Street near The Amway Center. In 2016, Business Insider included it on its list of “13 Mexican fast-food chains that could be the next Chipotle.”

Screamin’ Spicy Street Taco
Blackened chicken, queso, California Screamin’ sauce, fajita veggies and salsa. Served on two soft corn tortillas.

Carnitas Street Taco
Pork carnitas, melted Jack cheese, Enchilada sauce, onion-cilantro relish and fresh avocado. Served on two soft corn tortillas.

Nachos
Corn tortilla chips topped with queso, jalapeños, sour cream, guac, scallions and salsa. Add chicken, steak, taco beef or farm-fresh veggies and black beans!

For more info, visit http://californiatortilla.com/menu/

“Flavor by Loews Hotel” at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel

Tiffany Nguyen

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Apr 25, 2018

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“Flavor by Loews Hotel” at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel

Duomo Gelato – Uses fresh, premium ingredients and a secret Italian recipe to create rich, creamy gelatos. The hotel serves more than 50 irresistible flavors at Gelateria on the Harbor Piazza.

Loews Hotels at Universal Orlando introduces Flavor by Loews Hotels, an innovative food and beverage experience serving up some of the best of Florida’s local flavor at each hotel. Rolling out nationally across the brand, Flavor by Loews Hotels is built on partnerships with artisan food and beverage vendors ranging from bakers to gelato makers to brewmasters.

A culinary experience designed to showcase hyper-local flavor.

Mini chicken slider, mini Italian sausage slider, mini crabmeat slider.

Olde Hearth Bread Company – Specializes in handmade, high-quality artisan breads, which guests can enjoy at Sal’s Market Deli.

A variety of bruschetta.

Jake’s Steak & Frites – Kissimee River oyster mushrooms, herb roasted char grilled, black Angus beef ribeye, house made smoked ketchup.

Crooked Can Brewing Company – A local favorite known for its quality craft beers and laid back vibe. Jake’s American Bar serves four of Crooked Can’s popular brews.

Webb’s Honey & Ginger Glazed Salmon – cilantro rice, pickled vegetables, edamame sambal olek.

Grilled Pineapple Salad – Pure Produce arugula & crosse, grape tomatoes, red quinoa, roasted red peppers, crisp plantain, citrus vinaigrette.

Mexican Sopes – Palmetto Creek Farms pulled pork, refried beans, oaxaca cheese, pico de gallo.

Raspberry cheesecake gelato with crispy pearls.

Strawberry blackberry sherbet with chocolate drizzle.

Raspberry cheesecake and pistachio gelato.

Executive Chef Leon Teow thanking staff and guests for being a part of Flavor by Loews Hotel.

(Source credit: Loews Hotels)

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando
5601 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819
(407) 503-1000
loewshotels.com/portofino-bay-hotel/dining/flavor

Orlando Magazine hosts 2nd annual Generocity Orlando event at the Orlando Science Center

Tiffany Nguyen

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Apr 23, 2018

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Orlando Magazine hosts 2nd annual Generocity Orlando event at the Orlando Science Center

Pig Floyd’s – Ribs, Maduros, Slaw

Orlando Magazine hosted its 2nd annual Generocity Orlando event, where attendees connected with over 50 nonprofit groups and learned how to get involved and give back. This “Party With a Purpose,” held at the Orlando Science Center, featured local fare from Pig Floyd’s Urban Barbakoa, King Bao, Swine & Sons, Art of Taste Orlando, and P is for Pie Bake Shop, signature drinks from The Courtesy Bar, plus a wide variety of live entertainment and was sponsored by the Orlando Science Center, Unicorp National Developments, Inc., Masters Realty Group, and Seaside National Bank & Trust. (Source credit: Orlando Magazine)

Art of Taste catering company

Ceviche

Smoked salmon

Pork belly

Potato and avocado

King Bao – coconut shrimp

Fried chicken

Tofu

Potato croquette

Beef

Pork belly

Mudslide cream pie

Peach cobbler

Blueberry lavender cobbler

Chocolate chip with brown butter bourbon

P is for Pie Bake Shop

The Courtesy Bar

Orlando Magazine
801 N Magnolia Ave #201, Orlando, FL 32803
(407) 423-0618
http://orlandomagazine.com

Orlando Science Center
777 E Princeton St, Orlando, FL 32803
http://osc.org

Playing Hooky at Enzo’s Hideaway in Disney Springs

Dana Spencer

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Apr 22, 2018

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Playing Hooky at Enzo’s Hideaway in Disney Springs

There is nothing better than playing hooky. Leave your responsibilities, your obligations, your worries behind and go play! This is exactly what my husband and I did on a Friday afternoon while the kids were in school. Granted, my husband took the day off from work and I work from home, but still, it felt delightfully naughty of us to take some time for just us two. Especially, time spent at Disney Springs, “hiding out” at Enzo’s Hideaway. Sometimes you just need an escape, and that’s how we felt dining at Enzo’s, an old rum-running underground tunnel during the prohibition era, that was later turned into a restaurant by Enzo himself when he accidentally stumbled upon it. Maria and Enzo, a lovely, Italian couple, new to Orlando straight from Italy (Enzo literally flew in on his airplane), here to bring us three divine places to eat: Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante, Pizza Ponte, and Enzo’s Hideaway. All three eateries located in Disney Springs, but Enzo’s Hideaway is not as obvious to find, given the mystery of its origins. This “secret location” can be found below Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante, underground, giving it a very cozy and romantic feel, but also perfectly welcoming to families and friends of all ages.

Entrance to Enzo’s Hideaway at Disney Springs

Our amazing waiter told us this heart-warming backstory about Maria and Enzo, and how their three restaurants came to be. Personally, I love when Disney does this with its establishments. It makes the dining experience even more special (that might be my own opinion, but I am a storyteller after all). Rumor has it that the original concept of this speakeasy included a password-only entrance; hence, the window in the top-center of the door. The idea was scrapped, but the door remains.

Once inside, diners are whisked away to another time period, listening to popular music by classic Italian crooners (Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and more), seated under vintage-style Edison bulb lighting, at mahogany wood tables and booths with red-cushioned seats, while curiously reading the graffiti decorating the “tunnel” walls. I couldn’t help but feel we stumbled upon an old, Italian restaurant on the streets of the Bronx or Brooklyn. Any minute Martin Scorsese is going to walk in and start filming. I can see my Italian relatives scurrying around their deli and restaurant in Toms River, New Jersey, while I hang-out behind the counter with my accordion-playing, great-grandfather who calls me bella. I’m home.

Enzo’s Hideaway Mock Bar – Prohibition Style

Now, on to the best part of our secret date – the drinks and food! I’m a sucker for anything with Prosecco in it (Prosecco by itself too), so, it didn’t take long for me to notice the Luciano Spritz on the menu, made with Solerno Blood Orange, Aperol, blood orange juice, and Villa Sani Prosecco. However, the Sangria, also caught my attention. What is a girl supposed to do with this dilemma? Order two drinks when it’s barely past noon? Sadly, this is not an option, when picking up kids from school is involved. I got it! Demand, no, politely ask my husband to order the Sangria – problem solved. Enzo’s Sangria made with a house blend of Malbec, Burgundy, Apricot and Peach Brandy, seasonal fruits, and cinnamon spice simple syrup is refreshingly sweet and smooth. It complimented the bubbly, soured-sweetness of my Luciano Spritz nicely. Both drinks were the perfect accompaniment to our appetizer – Salumi e Formaggi for two. This antipasto platter is made-to-order, with fresh cuts of meat and cheese sliced in front of you at Enzo’s very own “deli counter”. The platter consists of 24-month-cured Prosciutto, Salame Piccante, Finocchiona, 24-month-aged Parmigiano-Reggiano, Pecorino Romano, Fontina, olives, pickled vegetables, bread sticks, and a mustard fruit spread. The meat, cheese, pickled vegetables, breadsticks were all delicious, but the mustard fruit spread really took me by surprise. A spread I have never seen or tried before, but can’t wait to have again. Sweet from the fruit, but spicy, almost like the taste of horseradish – a perfect pairing with each of the three cheeses.

As we fork-fenced over our antipasto, a truce was called just in time to peruse the lunch menu. Another quandary – everything looks good! My husband ordered the Polpettine – classic meatballs with polenta, and I chose the Porchetta and Provola Panini – pork roast, provolone, grainy mustard, pear aioli, spicy cherry peppers, and arugula. If you like the combination of salty and sweet, this panini is for you. The pork and provolone was tender, the aioli tangy, with peppery arugula, and a zesty kick from the mustard and cherry peppers. As the loving wife I am (sharing is caring), my husband and I exchanged plates halfway through the course, as he finished my panini, I enjoyed the meatballs and polenta. The polenta was so soft it practically melted in my mouth, and the meatballs were delicate, yet hearty, gently swimming in a luscious tomato sauce.

Enzo’s Hideaway Porchetta and Provola Panini

Our secret lunch almost complete, our waiter asks us if we will be having dessert. As they say, when in Rome – yes! He recommends his favorite dessert on the menu – Maritozzi con Panna. Imagine a sweet roll stuffed with cream and Nutella, sprinkled with powdered sugar – forget imagining it, have it now! I don’t think my explanation can clearly justify how fantastic this dessert is, but, I’ll give it a try. The bread reminds me of a dense dinner roll that has been dusted with powdered sugar, while the cream is velvety, but not overly-sweet, which makes sense when paired with the Nutella, whose job is to make everything sweet.

We left our secret rendezvous with huge smiles on our faces, and full stomachs to match. I am absolutely in love with Enzo’s Hideaway and plan to return very soon. The dinner menu has even more delectable entrees to pick from, including a pasta dish with a thick meat sauce made with beef short ribs (I’m having that). Enzo’s Hideaway also offers a late-night dining experience on Thursdays through Saturdays through 2am, featuring prohibition-style cocktails and a special late-night menu (I’ll need an afternoon power nap to enjoy this). In conclusion, whether you’re playing hooky or not, Enzo’s Hideaway is the perfect spot to get “lost”, leave the stresses of life behind, and unwind, speakeasy style.

https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/disney-springs/enzos-hideaway/

https://www.patinagroup.com/enzos-hideaway

First Look: The Glass Knife – New Menu Spring 2018

Orlando

Ricky Ly

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Apr 20, 2018

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First Look: The Glass Knife – New Menu Spring 2018

The Glass Knife opened just a few months ago and is already popular among the “ladies who lunch” of Winter Park. They’ve learned from their first missteps and have continued to refine their processes – for example, a more prominent sign guiding new customers to the counters to take their orders.

The bakery/restaurant/cafe was developed by local entrepreneur Steve Brown, as a way to share his memories of baking alongside his mother, Jacque, who was a fond collector of Depression-era glass cake knives.

The culinary team is led by Executive Chef Stuart Whitfield, who has worked for Four Seasons, Le Cirque, David Burke & Donatella, and The Walt Disney Company.

The Glass Knife’s Spring debut lineup includes: new macarons, lemon and chocolate tarts, artisanal flatbreads, their newest doughnut, the PB&J, and their newest pastry, the Coconut Blackberry.

I enjoyed the PB&J donut, but the Coconut Blackberry was my favorite. An outstanding pastry with complex textures from crunchy to soft to sweet and citrusy – quite delicious.

Mediterranean Flatbread
Sweet fig butter, goat cheese, Neuske’s Applewood-smoked bacon and caramelized onions topped with arugula, shredded Gruyere cheese and finished with a mission fig balsamic drizzle and lemon creme fraiche

The PB&J
Filled with layers of the Glass Knife’s own peanut butter cream and tangy raspberry jam, touched with a vibrant purple, hibiscus glaze and topped with peanut butter stripes and golden, house-made peanut brittle

Coconut Blackberry
Intricate layers of aromatic blackberry pate de fruit, coconut dacquoise and zesty yuzu jam enveloped in a lush coconut mousse atop a buttery shortbread base finished with blackberry cream, touches of fresh blackberries, coconut, microgreens and edible 23-karat gold leaf.

Morimoto Asia hosts first Matsuri Festival during their inaugural Sakura Festival

Tiffany Nguyen

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Apr 20, 2018

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Morimoto Asia hosts first Matsuri Festival during their inaugural Sakura Festival

Calligraphy artist writes guest’s name in Japanese.

We were invited to experience the Sakura (cherry blossom) Festival, a month-long celebration of the arrival of spring and the cherry blossoms at Morimoto Asia – Disney Springs.

The restaurant was decorated with Instagram-worthy décor, showcasing the pink blooms of the Sakura. Similar to the festivals in Japan, guests attended a series of ticketed events and enjoyed special menu items inspired by the Japanese cherry blossoms.

The month-long Sakura Festival concluded with a family fun day inspired by the traditional Matsuri (festival) of Japan. We got to enjoy unlimited sushi, ramen, yakisoba, street food, mochi, cocktails/mocktails, origami artist, calligraphy artist, games and giveaways. You definitely need to experience this one of a kind event for yourself next year!

Celebrity Disney expert Lou Mongello and I.

A station in partnership with their Disney Springs neighbors, Uniqlo.

Okinawa Breeze – strawberry kiwi limeade (mocktail).

Winter Sakura – cherry calpico soda (the best mocktail in the world!).

Onigiri.

Shrimp tempura, california, spicy tuna, spicy salmon.

The back side of the previous dish.

Eel & avocado sushi.

Okonímiyaki.

Takoyaki.

Tonkotsu ramen bar. It was delicious!

Tonkotsu ramen.

Dango – kinako (roasted soy flour), mitarashi (sweet soy glaze), kurogoma (black sesame).

Executive Chef Yuhi Fujinag preparing mochi.

Mochi.

Origami artist.

Ramune ring toss.

Ramune ring toss prizes.

Connect 4 with candy prizes.

Yakitori.

Yakisoba. It was sooo good!

Be sure to check out the 2nd Annual Sakura Festival at Morimoto Asia – Disney Springs next year! You will love it!

(Source credit: Morimoto Asia)

Morimoto Asia – Disney Springs
1600 East Buena Vista Drive, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
patinagroup.com/morimoto-asia/sakura
(407) 939-6686

Walt Disney World hosts 26th Annual Chef’s Gala to benefit local hunger and homelessness programs

Tiffany Nguyen

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Apr 18, 2018

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Walt Disney World hosts 26th Annual Chef’s Gala to benefit local hunger and homelessness programs

Recognized as the region’s premier food and wine pairing event, the 26th Heart of Florida United Way Chef’s Gala at Walt Disney World Resort featured unlimited sampling of signature dishes prepared by 23 of Central Florida’s top chefs, along with thoughtfully paired fine wines. The evening also included a sparking wine reception, live music and a silent auction filled with unique items and trips.

This year they served over 460,000 individuals and raised a record-breaking $300,000+ towards the fight for the health, education and financial stability of every person in Central Florida. 95 cents of every dollar raised is invested back into the community to fund critical programs.

Chef’s Gala – what a tasteful way to make a difference in the world!

All beverages were generously donated.

All silent auction items were generously donated.

Live performance by an amazing band

Flying Fish – Disney’s BoardWalk: Chef LT Majoras
Cool Water Lobster and Slow Poached Shrimp, Spring Melon, Hearts of Palm, Shaved Serrano and Cava Vinaigrette

SLATE: Chef Jacob Woolf
Smoked Brisket, Jalapeño Creamed Corn, Charred Scallion Vinaigrette and Annatto Oil

Artist Point – Disney’s Wilderness Lodge: Chef Michael Gonsalves
Sweet Maiz Soup – Dungeness Crab, Avocado, Spring Radish, Ramp Mole, Greens

Urban Tide – Hyatt Regency Orlando: Chef Chef Jared Gross
Plantain-Crusted Atlantic Cod, Roasted Red Beet and Crème Fraiche Mash, Kumquat Mostarda

Todd English’s bluezoo – Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin Resort: Chef Jason Wiggin
Crispy Puffed Rice Shrimp, Wasabi Pommes Puree, Sweet Thai Chili

Shutters – Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort: Chef Mark Donovan
Caribbean Goat Curry with Fragrant Island Rice and Cilantro-Lime Crema

Hemisphere – Hyatt Regency Orlando: Chef Jeffrey Powell
Chilled California-Style White Fish Ceviche with House Fried Corn Chips

Ale & Compass Restaurant – Disney’s Beach Club Resort: Chef David Hutnick
Slow Smoked Pork Tenderloin, Bacon Jam, Vermont Cheddar Grits, Barbecue Gastrique and Herb Salad

The Turf Club Bar and Grill – Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa: Chef Dan Marozzi
Pan Seared Salmon Slider – Seared Ora King Salmon, Horseradish Pickled Cucumber Slaw, on a Dill Gougère

blu on the avenue: Chef Tony Krueger
Hot Smoked Scottish Salmon, Dukkah Drop Biscuit, Bacon, Pickled Serrano, Aged Maple Syrup, Flowers

Morimoto Asia – Disney Springs: Chef Yuhi Fujinaga
Foie “PHO”, Kona Kanpachi, Shiso

Latitude and Longitude – Orlando World Center Marriott: Chef Kyle Anderson
Low-Country Perloo Carolina Gold Rice, Chicken Thighs, Andouille Sausage, Florida Rock Shrimp

The Hollywood Brown Derby – Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Chef Craig Schleider
Spicy Togarashi – Crusted Ahi Tuna, House-Made Kimchi, Bamboo Rice and Ginger-Soy Glaze

STK Orlando – Disney Springs: Chef Aaron Taylor
Goat’s Milk Ricotta with Crushed Peas, Mint and Charred Spring Onion

Jiko – The Cooking Place – Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge: Chef Eddie Mendoza
Mandazi

Jiko – The Cooking Place – Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge: Chef Eddie Mendoza
Isitambu – Zulu-Style Samp, Beans with Oxtail and Quail Egg

Tiffins – Disney’s Animal Kingdom^® Theme Park: Chef Robby Sayles
Blanquette de Veau, Crispy Sweetbreads, Forest Mushroom Ragout and Charred Pearl Onion

Le Cellier Steakhouse – Epcot^®: Chef Kevin Downing
Lamb Loin, Confit Marble Potatoes, Spring Vegetable Vinaigrette and Pinot Noir Syrup

Primo by Melissa Kelly – J.W. Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes: Chef Eric Santiago
House-Made Casarecche Pasta, Lake Meadows Duck Confit, Local Mushrooms, Ramp Pesto and Shaved Pecorino

Bull & Bear – Waldorf Astoria Orlando: Chef Richard Brown
Seared Shrimp Scampi with Pinot Grigio Butter, Black Venus Rice Risotto and Parmesan Cheese

Cinderella’s Royal Table – MAGIC KINGDOM Park: Chef Axel Martinez
Blood Orange Braised Beef Short Rib, Melted Leek and Kohlrabi Puree and Sweetie Drop Peppers

Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company: Roast Master Chris DeMezzo
Made-to-Order Specialty Coffees

Amorette’s Patisserie – Disney Springs: Pastry Chef Yoly Lazo Colon
Amorette’s Petite Signature Cake – Chocolate Chiffon, Raspberry Pate Fruit, Red Velvet Cake, Chocolate Biscuit, Dark Chocolate and Cherry Mousse

Gideon’s Bakehouse: Owner Steve Lewis and Chef Nicole Beebe
Classic Chocolate Chip Cookie and Pistachio Toffee Chocolate Chip Cookie

Epcot^® Bakery Team: Pastry Chef Noah French
Meyer Lemon Tart with Mandarin Orange Jam

Beautiful and breathtaking fireworks are the perfect way to end an amazing night. Be sure to check out this amazing event next year!

(Source credit: Chef’s Gala)

Chef’s Gala – Epcot Showplace
200 Epcot Center Dr, Orlando, FL 32821
(407) 939-5277
ChefsGala.org

Orlando’s Food Scene – Featured In the Chicago Tribune

Orlando

Ricky Ly

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Apr 18, 2018

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Orlando’s Food Scene – Featured In the Chicago Tribune

Orlando’s growing food scene featured in the Chicago Tribune this week by writer Jim Byers! Check it out below:

Chicago Tribune: Away from the theme parks, Orlando area offers dining thrills

A Taste of Two Cities: Winter Park and College Park 2018

Events

Ricky Ly

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Apr 18, 2018

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A Taste of Two Cities: Winter Park and College Park 2018

The weather is beautiful in one of those two or three brief moments of the year where Florida is not yet doused in sweltering afternoon showers and heat. That means it’s food festival season!

Here are two “Tastes” from two cities going on right here in Central Florida this week:

TASTE OF WINTER PARK 2018

April 18, 2018 | 5 PM – 8 PM | Winter Park Farmer’s Market
Winter Park’s Ultimate Foodie Festival

Taste of Winter Park showcases more than 40 of Central Florida’s top chefs, bakers, caterers and confectioners for a fun evening at the Winter Park Farmers’ Market. All-inclusive tickets feature unlimited samples of signature dishes, refreshing beverages and decadent desserts.

Beverages include a selection from the Terlato Wines portfolio, including pairings with select vendors, and signature cocktails featuring Hendrick’s Gin.

Taste of Winter Park features popular eateries and new destinations sure to become your new favorite. Vendors must be members of the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce in order to participate.

Keep up with Taste of Winter Park and participating restaurants year-round, plus receive advanced notice for ticket sales on our social media channels.
#WinterParkTaste

For additional information on this event, contact Ally Stricker at astricker@winterpark.org or 407-644-8281.

Early Bird Tickets: *Only available until March 16, 2018

$45 Chamber members (in advance)
$60 Non-members
$400 Pack of Ten Tickets
Taste of Winter Park Tickets

$50 Chamber members (in advance)
$65 Non-members & everyone at the door
$450 Pack of Ten Tickets
For the ultimate experience, be a VIP Guest:

$100
Private Tent
Seated Tables
?Corkcicle Stemless keepsake cup
Unique Food and Drinks with no line
45 VIP parking spots (New England Ave. lot across from Central Park – first to arrive, first served – pre purchased tickets only)
Premium bottles of wine for sale

https://winterpark.org/events/details/taste-of-winter-park-5034975

TASTE OF COLLEGE PARK 2018

Admission includes food, beer and wine from some of the areas best restaurants and bars!

Every spring, the Rotary Club of College Park hosts the Taste of College Park Food & Wine Festival. The festival takes place at the Historic Dubsdread ballroom. This year’s event is scheduled for Thursday, April 19, 2018 at 6:00pm.

The Taste of College Park combines food, wine, music, silent & live auctions for an extraordinary evening in College Park. Nearly a dozen local restaurants and distributors provide the food and wine; local retailers supply items for the silent and live auction. College Park businesses and Rotary Club members sell nearly 500 tickets.

Whether you are a local foodie looking to sample the latest fare from College Park’s best restaurants or a resident looking to enjoy an evening sampling great wines and listening to music, the Taste of College Park Food & Wine Festival is a casual and fun evening for everyone.

The Taste of College Park Food & Wine Festival is the Rotary Club of College Park’s premier fundraising event and one of the largest events in the College Park Community. In previous years, the club raised more than $30,000 for local charities including Ronald McDonald House of Orlando, Princeton Elementary, Lake Silver Elementary, and scholarships & awards for College Park students.

http://tasteofcollegepark.org/

Hawkers Asian Street Fare opens second Orlando location in Windermere

Orlando

Tiffany Nguyen

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Apr 17, 2018

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Hawkers Asian Street Fare opens second Orlando location in Windermere

Hawkers Asian Street Fare opened its newest location in Windermere, and the team couldn’t be more excited! We were invited to meet the team, tour the space, and enjoy complimentary dinner and drinks with the Hawkers family this past weekend during their VIP experience event. Hawkers Asian Street Fare – Windermere has a beautiful, vibrant, and inviting atmosphere. The street food was good and the hospitality was top notch!

They are in soft opening mode starting today. Their official grand opening date is on Monday, April 23.

THAI ICED TEA

‘NAM-NOM ROLLS – chilled rice wrap, crunchy spring roll, chicken sausage, lettuce, cucumber (my favorite appetizer!)

#DIMSUMCRUNCHYBALLS – shrimp, pork, crispy spring roll batter

SINGAPORE ‘CHILLI’ CRAB – national dish of Singapore, soft-shelled crab, house-made chili garlic sauce, fried bao bun

STREET SKEWERS – three per order, cooked over 1000° wood burning grill. Choice of: crispy chicken skin, Korean octopus, beef bulgogi, chicken bulgogi, satay chicken, lemongrass pork

HAWKER WINGS – five per order, battered or naked, with choice of sauce: Thai chili, hainanese, honey sriracha, chuan jerk, five spice, spring onion ginger

PO PO LO’S CURRY – a signature recipe shared by their family for generations. Choice of: chicken, beef, shrimp, tofu. Served with white or brown rice.

CANTON COD – wok-seared with bell peppers and onions

My mom & I

Behind the scenes shot

TIGER SALAD – poached octopus, cilantro, carrots, scallions, celery, cucumber, rice wine vinaigrette

GREEN PAPAYA & SHRIMP – carrots, basil, cilantro, mango salsa, fried shallots, roasted peanuts, Vietnamese vinaigrette

My mom & I with the co-owner of Hawkers Asian Street Fare, Allen Lo. Thanks for the food, hospitality, and gift bags!

Assortment of desserts

Sake tasting

We got to design our own shirt!

My mom designed this shirt

I designed this shirt

Be sure to check out the new Hawkers Asian Street Fare – Windermere! Their grand opening will be on Monday, April 23!

Hawkers Asian Street Fare – Windermere
9100 Conroy Windermere Rd suite 110, Windermere, FL 34786
(407) 583-6334
eathawkers.com/windermere-fl/

VIP at Beard in Baldwin

Dana Spencer

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Apr 16, 2018

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Typically, I’m not a VIP kind of girl. Just ask my husband about our very first date at Wendy’s when I couldn’t have been happier with my chocolate frosty (yes, I was only fifteen years old, but my love of Frosty’s remains the same). However, on a beautiful night in Orlando, date night with one of our best couple friends, attending Beard In Baldwin Food & Wine Festival in Baldwin Park, you have to go VIP all the way! After all, purchased tickets benefit The James Beard Foundation National Scholars Program, and grant you admission to a private cocktail event inside The Osprey Tavern (one of my favorite restaurants). VIP or not, this festival on Saturday night, April 14th, was worth every penny, considering the insanely delicious food and drinks we tried from some of the best restaurants in the Orlando area. My bucket list (restaurants I plan to visit – I’m not into bungee jumping) has grown tremendously!

I could go on and on about every dish, every drink, from every restaurant we tried (seriously, there wasn’t one thing I didn’t like). But, in consideration of your time and my rambling, here is a glimpse of a few fantastic eats:

Tamale Co.
Mole Tamale – Mexican Sauce Cooked with Chocolate Abuelita Banana, Mexican Spices and Seeds

Bites & Bubbles
Salmon Cake with Lump Crab, Champagne Citrus Sauce and Micro Greens

Orlando Meats
Reuben Tartine with Pastrami, Sauerkraut, Thousand Island Dressing, Rye Bread

Dixie Dharma (Vegan)
Beet Tartare – Beet with Macadamia, Spring Onion, Nettle Oil

Black Rooster Taqueria
Fish Taco – Beer Battered Fish, Organic Corn Tortilla, Red Cabbage, Mayo, Avocado, Cilantro, Radish, Lime

Highball & Harvest
Duck Pot Pie & Stuffed Squid – Wild Onion Bisque, Duck Rillette, Corn Smut Cracker

Terralina Crafted Italian (Opening Soon at Disney Springs)
Nonna’s Pork Ragu – Over Polenta Topped with Pecorino Romano Cheese

SOCO (Southern Contemporary Cuisine)
Duck Confit on Foie Gras Buttermilk Biscuit

Partner/Executive Chef Greg Richie of SOCO

The VIP event inside The Osprey Tavern not only included specialty hors d’oevres and cocktails, but a close-up view of several prominent chefs preparing the dishes: Jeremiah Langhorne (The Dabney in Washington, D.C.), Frank Anderson (The Rez Grill, Seminole Hard Rock Tampa), Soraya Caraccioli-Kilgore (MadLab Creamery in Miami), and Jeremy Ford (Stubborn Seed in Miami). These terrific chefs worked alongside Chef de Cuisine, Elek Kovacs and Pastry Chef, Kristy Carlucci of The Osprey Tavern. I can’t forget to mention Master of Ceremonies, Chef Norman Van Aken of NORMAN’S at the Ritz Carlton Orlando, 1921 in Mount Dora, and Three Restaurant and No. 3 Social Rooftop Bar & Lounge in Miami. I was among culinary celebrities! Thanks to the open kitchen inside the beautiful Osprey Tavern, I had an up-close view of the chefs hard at work on their signature plates, before they were magically whisked out to attendees by the professional and polite waitstaff (shout out to Frankie of The Osprey Tavern). As we dined on these freshly-made hors d’oevres, we also enjoyed an array of cocktails, wines, and champagnes, while mingling around the beautiful bar that takes center stage in the restaurant. The Osprey Tavern is cozy and inviting, but also elegant. Imagine a visit to grandma’s house, after grandma won the lottery, and completely renovated her home to look like a classy cottage in The Hamptons. Here’s a “taste” of the VIP event:

Banana Nutella Tartlets by Chef Kristy Carlucci (My Favorite Dessert)

Orange Cardamom Shortbread Cookies with Chocolate Topping by Chef Kristy Carlucci

Woodford Manhattan – Woodford Reserve Bourbon, Vermouth Mata, Angostura

‘In A Garten” – Basil Infused St. Augustine Gin, Raspberry Chamomile Syrup, Lemon Oleo, Lime

Bearded Redhead – Pineapple Infused St. Augustine Vodka, Cappelletti, Lemon
Autumn Olive Farms Pork Belly by Chef Jeremiah Langhorne – Grilled Ramps, Pickled Spring Onions, Black Garlic, Mustard and Dill

Warm Celery Root by Chef Jeremy Ford – Crackling Maitake, Mustard, Herbs and Blossoms

Smoked Trout Dip by Chef Frank Anderson – Poblano-corn Vinaigrette, Tortilla

Roasted Pheasant Roulade by Chef Elek Kovacs – Charred Corn Relish, Spring Ramps, Foie Gras

I will never forget my night attending Beard in Baldwin; especially, the fabulous food and drinks. The VIP experience gifted my husband and me with a personal look at several outstanding chefs bustling in the kitchen, and the chance to mingle with other foodies like ourselves (one couple shared a memorable story of their wedding reception inside The Osprey Tavern – “I think it’s time for a vow renewal” – I said to my husband). Being a VIP has grown on me, and to my family’s dismay, I may not be such a low-maintenance date after all.

Source:

Beard In Baldwin

Restaurants Mentioned:

Black Rooster Taqueria

Highball & Harvest

Terralina Crafted Italian

SOCO-Southern Contemporary Cuisine

The Osprey Tavern

Wine Bar George: only Master Sommelier-led wine bar in Florida

Orlando

Katherine Nguyen

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Apr 16, 2018

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Wine Bar George: only Master Sommelier-led wine bar in Florida

We were invited to a vineyard style lunch with Master Sommelier George Miliotes and winemaker Andy Erickson from Leviathan as a preview to George’s location opening this Spring in Disney Springs.

Wine Bar George will be the only Master Sommelier-led wine bar in Florida.

During lunch, I experienced a preview of what’s to come with future winemaker events at Wine Bar George and it left me wanting more.

George and Andy gave us a sneak peek of details not released to the public about Wine Bar George.

For instance, they will have wines on tap along side a number of beers selected by George and his Executive Chef. Aside from the wines on tap, George plans on having over 140 different wines on the menu to have a glass or an entire bottle.

Speaking of the menu, it’ll mention a number of unique signature dishes that are small plates to share or large dishes suggested for sharing family style. I only say it is suggested because I could probably consume the entire dish myself.

The Grilled Romaine with dressing and pecorino wafers salad is a nice added to the menu by Executive Chef Ron as a request by George’s daughter who requests it at almost every gathering. The pecorino wafers line the bowl; they add texture and a sharp flavor to the salad.

This Jicama-Kholrabi Salad with mint vinaigrette and pickled jalapeño is very unique and refreshing. Great for a warm day in Florida…which consists of 364 days a year.

Executive Chef Ron (left), Winemaker Andy Erickson (center) and Master Sommelier George Miliotes (right).

For more information, please visit Wine Bar George.

Have a Drink at Harry’s Poolside Bar & Grill

Orlando

Katherine Nguyen

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Apr 16, 2018

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Have a Drink at Harry’s Poolside Bar & Grill

Whether you decide to sit outside in the warm Florida sun or inside the unique restaurant, Harry’s Poolside Bar & Grill have a number of drinks and meals for you to enjoy. You can find Harry’s inside Rosen Centre Hotel along with many of their other restaurants serving a variety of cuisines to please your palate.

Here is a little insight to the poolside restaurant menu.

Cayman Island Calamari – Crispy Island Spiced Panko Calamari served with Cayman Aioli. If you are not fond of the calamari texture, this is a calamari dish for you as it is more crispy than anything from the panko coating. The Cayman aioli sauce will add a nice flavor to the crispy appetizer.

Island Coconut Shrimp – Crispy Coconut Gulf Shrimp usually served with Orange Chili Sauce. These shrimp are a decent size and fresh. They are lightly seasoned and also go well with the Cayman aioli sauce on our plate.

Oh My “Gorgonzola” Dip – with Caramelized Onions, Garlic, Roasted Tomatoes & Artichokes served with Baked Roti Bread. The dip itself is very flavorful and one bite will not be enough. In my opinion, I would prefer the dip with the to stones over the roti bread. Maybe you could try it both ways and let us know your preference!

Island Mahi Mahi Wrapped in Banana Leaf – Island All-Spiced Mahi wrapped in Banana Leaf. Served with Jasmine Rice, Coconut Curry and Mojo Tostones. The Mahi was slightly dry, but a little drizzle of lemon will help that as well as add a nice citrus kick to brighten up the coconut curry flavors. The jasmine rice had notes of coconut as well as it was topped with coconut shavings.

Jamaican Jambalaya – Chicken, Shrimp and Chorizo Sautéed with Onions, Peppers and Tomatoes with Zesty Creole Sauce served over Rice and Beans. This dish is a favorite of Harry’s and we can see why. The proteins are prepared on the side and added to the sauce when ordered, which allows alterations to occur when clients have allergies. The sauce is already slightly spicy, but you can crank up the spicy level by letting your waitress and chef know your preference on spice level when given a scale of 1-10. We tried the dish with a level 9 on the spicy scale and we were not disappointed; don’t worry, we could still taste the other flavors this dish offered.

Trio of Tropical Sorbets – Mango, Coconut and Pineapple served in a Chocolate Wafer Shell with Fresh Fruit. We were aware of the delicious dessert alternatives, but we wanted something light after our full meals. The coconut sorbet was our favorite of the three.

Zested Mojito – Bacardi Limon Rum with Fresh Muddled Mint and Lime Shaken Vigorously and Topped with Soda. The drink was made strong and delicious. The mint added was not so fresh and the notes of mint were masked by rum.

Pineapple Upside Down – Svedka Vanilla Vodka and Malibu Coconut Rum Served Neat with Pineapple and a Splash of Maraschino. This drink was sweet like fruit punch, which hid the taste of alcohol. This can be very dangerous if you plan on having a few. At that point, go with a bucket deal that they have at this restaurant. If you’re not a fan of sweetness, squeeze a lemon into the drink and it’ll cut the sweetness for you.

For more information on the cocktail bucket deals and Harry’s in general, please visit Harry’s Poolside Bar & Grill.

Lion’s Pride – a New Level of Pride in Orlando, FL

Orlando

Katherine Nguyen

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Apr 14, 2018

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Lion’s Pride – a New Level of Pride in Orlando, FL

We were happy to explore Lion’s Pride, which is a Soccer Pub & Grill found on Church St. of Downtown Orlando, FL. As stated by their motto, “Big screen soccer action for every game; great food at every seat,” they did not disappoint.

This elite soccer fan-den showcases past and present game memorabilia, club level seating, semi private suites, and a private dining space. A stadium experience is provided in a comfortable soccer-centric environment when you are unable to hop in the stands at the stadium yourself.

The menu features sports bar favorites elevated to a new level. Local and fresh ingredients, signature drinks and the very best craft beers compliment the diverse menu served by a welcoming staff. Lucky us, we experienced a Five Course meal pairing that highlighted a number of delicious meals found at Lion’s Pride.

Peppered Tuna with avocado relish and cilantro lime slaw served with a mini draft of Blue Moon and a fresh orange wedge. The tuna was so fresh it swam onto my plate. Each item on this plate had its unique flavors and we could not have enough of the flavors. Warning: a bite of each all together will make your tastebuds dance.

Petite Brisket Tacos with shredded iceberg lettuce, diced tomato, Queso Blanco & chipotle aioli served with Sam Adams Winter Lager. These tacos were juice and the tortillas were fluffy. Chef created another delicious item on the menu as all the flavors of these tacos blended well.

If you are a salad person, how about the Caprese Salad with red and yellow vine ripe tomatoes, fresh buffalo mozzarella, basil oil and balsamic glaze? This was paired with a 2015 Terra d’ Oro Blended Chenin Blanc. Lion’s Pride was not kidding when they said their ingredients were fresh. The basil oil and balsamic glaze are very light and do not overpower the freshness of the salad.

Shrimp & Lobster Risotto with creamy parmesan served with Lion’s Pride Signature Hand Muddled Marquita. The risotto was cooked perfectly, but please make sure the staff is aware of any allergies in advance.

Also, the drink packs a powerful punch but it is healthy with all the citrus in the drink, right?

Blue Cheese Filet with garlic Boursin mash potato and red wine demi glaze served with a 2015 Emmolo Napa Valley Merlot. Be sure to notify your waiter/waitress your preference in temperature for the filet. I had forgotten to notify the staff of my preference, yet they know me so well. The filet is very moist, tender and expressed mineral flavors; the mineral flavors make each of the filet unique to one another and enhanced by the blue cheese.

If you’re not a fan of red meat, how about a salmon? The salmon was cooked well, very moist and fresh. The Chef does not cringe at the thought of substitutions as he is here to accommodate to everyone’s nutritional needs.

The desserts include a Chocolate Mousse and a Romeo & Juliet pastry served with lion’s Pride Famous whiskey based Red Sangria and Passion Fruit Pureed Champagne respectively. The Romeo & Juliet is a guava and cheese pastry that is a warm hug to your tastebuds. Both desserts were great, but the chocolate mousse was my favorite. Who doesn’t love chocolate? Feel free to hand me your portion if you don’t love chocolate as much as I do.

If this post hasn’t persuaded you to visit, maybe knowing that their Happy Hour runs to 8pm will convince you to stop in. For more information, please visit Lion’s Pride.

Main Event Entertainment – Pointe Orlando

Tiffany Nguyen

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Apr 12, 2018

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Main Event Entertainment – Pointe Orlando

Kevin Pabis, son of local food bloggers Richard and Irina Pabis (@celebritychef4u).

We were invited to Main Event Entertainment to eat, bowl, and play! The food offerings were all delicious! You have to try their Skillet Mac & Cheese which consists of cavatappi pasta, grilled chicken, applewood smoked bacon, creamy blend of melted cheeses, green onions topped with CHEEZ-IT crumbs. CHEEZ-IT are one of my life-long favorite snacks. Throw some of its crumbs on top of a loaded-baked chicken/bacon mac & cheese and you’re golden.

Tomato Caprese Skewers – served with balsamic drizzle (these were super popular at our table, a blogger’s son said that it was his favorite dish!)

Calamari – zesty marinara sauce and fresh shaved parmesan cheese

Chicken Quesadilla – grilled chicken, jack & cheddar cheese, chipotle mayo &fresh made pico de Gallo (this was my mom’s favorite dish!)

Roast Beef Dippers– shaved roast beef, horseradish mayo, lettuce, tomato, red onion served on buttery garlic knot bun

Italian Pesto Pizza – fresh basil, roasted potatoes, caramelized onions, creamy basil pesto,feta, mozzarella & provolone cheese

Assorted Dessert Bars – lemon, raspberry rhapsody, pecan chocolate chip, & caramel, oatmeal

Cinnamon Sugar Donuts – with salted caramel and raspberry sauce

A variety of gelato.

Billards.

VIP bowling lanes.

Bar area with alcoholic beverage options.

Bowling alley.

A variety of arcade games. Everyday deal: 1/2 price games 10pm to close.

Local food bloggers Ashelyn Vazquez (@orlandomag) with her guest, and Sean (@orlandofoodguys).

Samantha (@samantheah) & Mattia Joyce Castellano (@mattia_joyce) racing on the motorcycles

Carolina Grabova (@carolinagrabova) plays a racing game for her instagram story.

My favorite game at the arcade was their zombie-killing game in the first ever roam-free virtual reality room. I don’t have a photo of it but I do have a video clip of it on my instagram (@bytiffanynguyen). Imagine a game that doesn’t feel like a game. Where your body is the controller and your mind believes it’s real. It was so realistic that other attendees were seriously spooked after they finished playing! I enjoyed playing it though and I am looking forward to coming back and playing it again. Be sure to check out Main Event Entertainment next time you are in the I-Drive area to experience the zombie-killing game for yourself!

(Source credit: Main Event Entertainment)

Main Event Entertainment – Pointe Orlando
9101 International Dr Suite 1032, Orlando, FL 32819
(407) 352-3300
mainevent.com

Inside Look: 2018 Orlando’s Taiwanese Food Festival

Orlando

Ricky Ly

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Apr 11, 2018

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Inside Look: 2018 Orlando’s Taiwanese Food Festival

The Taiwanese Food Festival is put on by the local Orlando Taiwanese American community once a year, featuring games, food, and entertainment in a commercial park off of Orange Blossom Trail and SR 528.

Taiwan is one of my favorite places in the world to visit, not just for their friendly people and beautiful landscape, but also because of their amazing street food culture. The food of Taiwan features specialties from all over the mainland China due to migration trends after 1949 as well as its own homegrown cuisine.

Every evening, countless night markets pop up around the island featuring dishes like Taiwanese sausage in a rice bun, to giant fried chicken chops, and more.

One of our local celebrities, Eddie Huang of Fresh off the Boat fame, and his parents are members of the Taiwanese American community here in Orlando.

East Orlando: Taipei 101 offers new ramen to menu

Orlando

Ricky Ly

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Apr 11, 2018

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East Orlando: Taipei 101 offers new ramen to menu

Orlando is experiencing a moment with ramen – from the expansion of Domu at East End Market to the southwest and southeastern parts of the county as well as the continuing of new offerings of the dish at other local and new Japanese restaurants.

Just outside UCF in East Orlando, Taipei 101 has been offering up Taiwanese street food for years. Recently, they began serving their own ramen, coming in the pork tonkotsu, miso, and spicy miso versions.

Taiwan has a complicated history with Japan, as Japan did colonize the island for several decades in the earlier part of the last century, leaving behind cultural as well as culinary influences. Ramen, the popular noodle soup originally brought to Japan by Chinese immigrants and adapted in Japan, has made its way back to Taiwan. Taipei 101’s pork tonkotsu ramen was filling and quite tasty with pork chashu, boiled egg, and other toppings. A great value at $9.50.

This is on their special board menu which changes once in a while with other new popular Taiwanese street food items.

They also continue to serve their popular bento lunch boxes, featured here is the pork belly with rice box.

Taipei 101 – 3050 Alafaya Trail #108, Oviedo, FL 32765

Three Special Foodie Events this Saturday April 14 in Orlando

Orlando

Ricky Ly

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Apr 10, 2018

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Three Special Foodie Events this Saturday April 14 in Orlando

The stars must have aligned for the foodie gods because there are three huge events all happening the same night centered around food for good causes. Don’t miss out this weekend!

Here they are:

Beard in Baldwin Food and Wine Festival benefitting the James Beard Foundation National Scholars Program

https://www.beardinbaldwin.com/
Baldwin Park – 4899 New Broad St. Orlando, FL 32814
Saturday, April 14, 2018 – General Admission 7-10 pm
VIP Early Access 6-7 pm
VIP Experience inside Osprey Tavern 7-9pm

– TICKETS –

General Admission: $110
VIP: $175
*Must be 21 and up

Join us in beautiful Baldwin Park as we celebrate the Orlando culinary scene. A complete experience, the evening will feature an intimate food and wine festival with picturesque Lake Baldwin and Harbor Park as the backdrop. More than 25 top tier local restaurants will be serving flavorful dishes each paired with a fine wine, crafted cocktail or local brew.

For those seeking a more exclusive experience, the VIP admission includes everything above along with a private cocktail event taking place inside The Osprey Tavern.

Help Support the Next Generation of Great American Chefs in Partnership with The James Beard Foundation National Scholars Program.

Chef’s Gala benefitting Heart of Florida United Way

Saturday, April 14th, 2018 – 6:30pm
Walt Disney World
Epcot World Showplace

Exciting news for foodies and wine enthusiasts of Central Florida! For the 26th year, more than 20 of the region’s top restaurants will gather for Heart of Florida United Way’s Chef’s Gala, a fundraiser benefiting local hunger and homelessness programs. Hosted by Walt Disney World, this gastronomic adventure offers unlimited sampling of signature dishes prepared by award-winning chefs, each paired with a fine wine.

The event will be held at Epcot Showplace on Saturday, April 14 from 6:45 – 10 p.m. and also includes a sparkling wine reception, live music and a silent auction filled with unique items and trips.

Participating Restaurants
Savory
Artist Point at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Ale & Compass Restaurant at Disney’s Beach Club Resort
blu on the avenue
Bull & Bear at Waldorf Astoria Orlando
Cinderella’s Royal Table at MAGIC KINGDOM Park
Flying Fish at Disney’s Boardwalk Inn
Hemisphere at Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport
Jiko – The Cooking Place at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Latitude & Longitude at Orlando World Center Marriott
Le Cellier Steakhouse at Epcot
Morimoto Asia at Disney Springs
Primo by Melissa Kelly at JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes
Shutters at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
SLATE
STK Orlando at Disney Springs
The Hollywood Brown Derby at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
The Turf Club Bar & Grill at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa
Tiffins at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
Todd English’s bluezoo at Walt Disney World’s Dolphin Resort
Urban Tide at Hyatt Regency Orlando
Sweet
Amorette’s Patisserie at Disney Springs
Epcot Bakery Team
Gideon’s Bakehouse
Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company
Purchase Tickets
Tickets are available by visiting www.ChefsGala.org. Individual tickets are $325, couple ticket package is $600 and corporate ticket packages are $3,000.

Cattle Baron’s Ball benefitting American Cancer Society

Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel · Sat, Apr 14, 2018 @ 06:00 PM
www.cattlebaronsballorlando.com
The American Cancer Society’s Cattle Baron’s Ball brings together cowboys and cowgirls for an evening of western-themed fun, and raises funds to help the Society finish the fight against cancer.

This year’s Cattle Baron’s Ball will be held on Saturday, April 14, 2018 at the Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel in Orlando!

Festivities begin at 6 p.m., with a reception that includes a silent auction, followed by a gourmet dine-around, featuring food from many of Central Florida’s finest chefs, a live auction and incredible entertainment.

The Orlando Cattle Baron’s Ball promises a toe-tapping, knee-slapping, rip-roaring good time, all for a great cause!

So grab your hat, pull on your boots, and join!

For almost 20 years the Cattle Baron’s Ball and the American Cancer Society has donated over $15 million towards Cancer Research. This year will be empowering as the focus is on children’s cancer. The 2018 Cattle Baron’s Ball is 6 weeks away and for the first time in many years it is close to being a sold out event. Below is an empowering video of what we don’t know about kids cancer. Visit us at www.cattlebaronsballorlando.com to see how you can help these children #kidscancer #cattlebaronsballorlando #acs #fightcancer #support #donate #passion #makeithappen #children #americancancersociety

Chef Eric Parker’s New Healthy Spring Menu Preview at Duffy’s Sports Grill

Katherine Nguyen

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Apr 9, 2018

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Chef Eric Parker’s New Healthy Spring Menu Preview at Duffy’s Sports Grill

At Duffy’s Sports Grill, Chef Eric Parker allowed us to have a sneak peak of his new healthy spring menu insert at Duffy’s Sports Grill and I am more than happy to share it with you all. The new menu will launch in April and it includes Orange Ginger Mahi, Tuna Poke Stack, Burrata Salad, and Tequila Lime Shrimp Tacos.

Burrata Salad – Burrata cheese served with local vine-ripe tomatoes and power greens, finished with balsamic and fig dressing. The greens and tomatoes are very fresh while the balsamic and fig dressing adds a sweet note to the dish. The Burrata cheese is a nice creamy touch and ties all of the flavors together.

Tuna Poke Stack – Ahi Tuna tossed with Duffy’s signature poke sauce stacked with freshly made pineapple salsa and mashed avocados, dusted with nori and tossed sesame seeds, Sriracha smear. Although Duffy’s is known as a sports grill, they do not hide from adding new and unique dishes, such as this. I thoroughly enjoyed this fresh dish and would come back for more!

Tequila Lime Shrimp Tacos – 3 mini flour tortillas loaded with marinated grilled shrimp, shredded cabbage, homemade pico de gallo and guacamole. Make sure you ask for lime as it adds a nice citrus touch to the dish and we all know I love lime.

Also, you can’t have your Tequila Lime Shrimp Tacos without some tequila!

It was great having a sit down with Chef Eric Parker and a shot of tequila.

Orange Ginger Mahi – is a sweet and lean Mahi Mahi with an orange ginger glaze over stir fried Soba noodles with broccoli, red bell peppers and onion, finished with pineapple salsa. I am not too fond of the Soba noodle flavors, but the Mahi Mahi was pretty great.

Key Lime Pie – cool and creamy key lime filling in a rich graham cracker crust. Duffy’s mentioned how it is an oversized piece of tropical bliss and they were not wrong.

Red Velvet Mini Donuts – red velvet mini donuts spun in sugar and served warm with cream cheese icing for dipping.

The donuts are very fluffy and moist.

As you can tell, this dish is one of my favorite items on the menu.

Duffy’s wouldn’t be Duffy’s with some delicious drinks. They are adding Effen Cucumber Martini and St-Germaine Cooler to their drink menu. Pictured is the Effen Cucumber Martini, which is a refreshing take on a classic cocktail, Effen Cucumber Vodka, agave syrup, mint, and a splash of lime.

Visit a nearby Duffy’s Sports Grill this month to experience the new healthy dishes yourself.

An Oldie, But a Goodie: Olivia’s Cafe at Disney’s Old Key West Resort

Dana Spencer

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Apr 8, 2018

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An Oldie, But a Goodie: Olivia’s Cafe at Disney’s Old Key West Resort

Olivia’s Cafe at Disney’s Old Key West Resort is no spring chicken. Opening more than two decades ago, Olivia’s may not be the new kid on the block, but this somewhat hidden Disney gem with mouthwatering food will never go out of style. Words like glamorous or trendy may not be the first to come to mind, be that as it may, the restaurant is a class-act with a comfortable, family-friendly atmosphere, a laid-back Florida Keys feel, and filled with staff that make everyone feel at home. After my recent dinner here, I can’t help but wonder – Why don’t I come here more often?

A Friday night outing with close friends on vacation from New Jersey, during the typical chaos of spring break in Orlando, at the most sought after vacation destination in Florida, can be stressful to say the least. Layer in five energetic children that have spent a very long, hot day in the park, finding a place that is family-friendly but also appealing to a grown-up’s palate (not that I don’t enjoy Disney’s chicken fingers and mac-n-cheese) was a must for all of our sanity.

In a uniquely Disney way, Olivia’s Café came to the rescue! After the typical musical chairs that comes with a large group trying to navigate a restaurant table, we take our seats. The kids are all happily plugged-in to electronic devices (desperate times call for desperate measures), and the first question our cheerful waitress asks – Would anyone care for a drink? All four adults answer in unison – Yes!!! I ask the waitress, as a foodie usually does, to please bring me one of their most-popular, signature cocktails, and a few minutes later, she gifts me with a Turtle Krawl. This sweet, but not too sweet cocktail tricks your senses into believing you’re lying on a white-sand beach, and not watching your son spill his entire glass of soda all over the table. Pineapple and orange juices blend nicely with the tang of lime juice, while three different rums (because one is never enough) marry together in beautiful coconut rum, spice rum, and white rum harmony.

As the Turtle Krawl works its magic granting peace among us four, the waitress suggests many appealing appetizers, but when she says onion rings from the “secret menu”, that’s it! Onion rings are most often a good pick to begin with, onion rings from a “secret menu”, they have to be even better…and yes, they were amazing! Crunchy, salty, fried, golden rings with a pop of sweet from the cooked onions. We ate our “secret menu” onion rings feeling like VIPs. Well, that was us, until we slowed down enough to look up from our munching to see that several other tables also had them. The jealously subsided faster than it was felt, most likely because of how delicious these secret menu onion rings are.

When it was time to order our entrees, I perused the menu of several dishes that I imagined were all incredible: Plantation Key Pork Chop, Tortuga Seafood Stew, Seven Mile Sea Scallops. Finally, after several minutes of waffling, I asked the waitress, yet again, for Olivia’s most popular entree, and she recommended one dish that gets a lot of attention: Southernmost Buttermilk Chicken. After eating this dish, I can clearly see why this southern jewel is the most popular girl in the class, and not in a mean girl kind of way. Boneless chicken breast so tender, I envision it marinated in the buttermilk for days, and so delicate I barely used my knife to cut it. The chicken’s crispy exterior is perfectly complimented by the southern gravy that has a perfect amount of spice and is smooth as silk. Tender and crunchy chicken, creamy southern gravy, nestled on top of crisp green beans and buttery, smooth mashed potatoes. Comfort food to the max.

I managed not to eat my entire dinner plate, considering the fact that I wanted to unbutton my jeans, a clear warning sign of when to stop, but…there’s always room for dessert! Our waitress made the kids’ day with DIY sundaes, and she made my day with Banana Bread Pudding Sundae. It was so sweet of her to bring my husband an extra spoon to share, and he really did put up a good fight, but that dessert had my name written all over it. A warm bread pudding with a Bananas Foster topping and a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream that slowly melted on top…heavenly! The bread pudding was moist (sorry, I hate that word too), the bananas foster was syrupy and luscious, and the ice cream was velvety, sweet. A perfect ending to our dinner.

A successful dinner in the books, I will not let too much time pass without returning to Olivia’s Cafe. Kids, or no kids, it is a perfect spot for a delicious meal and a serene atmosphere. A classic Disney resort restaurant, I hope you venture to soon, and if you’ve already been, go again…and order the Turtle Krawl.

Olivia’s Cafe

Disney’s Old Key West Resort

1510 N Cove Rd. Orlando, FL 32830

https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/old-key-west-resort/olivia-cafe/

TASTYCHOMPSORLANDO FOOD BLOG

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TASTE OF WINTER PARK 2018

TASTE OF COLLEGE PARK 2018

Here they are:

Beard in Baldwin Food and Wine Festival benefitting the James Beard Foundation National Scholars Program

Chef’s Gala benefitting Heart of Florida United Way

Cattle Baron’s Ball benefitting American Cancer Society

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