Marlow’s Tavern is back at it with their Ribs & Whiskey celebration menu starting Tuesday, September 13 through Monday, October 17. I was more than happy to join the party and taste some delicious items from the menu. The atmosphere was relaxing and the dishes roll out as fast as 15 minutes from ordering or you could let your server know that you are in no rush and enjoy your company.

Although the lighting was not great for taking photos, the food made up for it.

Slow-Cooked Smithfield James River St. Louis-Style Ribs – Served with Granny Smith apple-cabbage slaw, pimento cheese “stuffed” tater tots and house-made sweet corn and jalapeño muffin.

Last but not least, the bourbon bread pudding. Bourbon Bread Pudding – Crème-brûlée-soaked Cuban bread and a splash of Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey for sipping’, This dessert is my absolute favorite. I make sure I visit Marlow’s Tavern each time it is back on the menu. The warm Cuban bread adds a nice texture to each bite along with ice cream. The vanilla ice cream on top melts at the touch of the bread pudding. It is like they were made for each other.

For the celebration menu, please check out the link below.

• marlows-tavern-ribs-whiskey-menu-2016

If you plan on making a visit on a Wednesday night, there are Girls Night Out food and drink deals!

Also, Marlow’s is also offering fans a chance to win a patio party for 10 guests at the Marlow’s location of their choice. Beginning Sept. 16 through Oct. 8, participants can enter the sweepstakes by providing their contact information through Marlow’s Facebook page. Fans who refer their friends and family to participate will receive bonus entries. The winner will be announced on Oct. 12.

Orlando’s Taste of the Nation® for No Kid Hungry brings together the area’s top chefs who donate their time, talent and passion to end childhood hunger in Central Florida. Along with culinary delights, guests have the opportunity to sample select wines, cocktails and premium beers and enjoy silent and live auctions and entertainment. Every dollar raised fights hunger and homelessness in the Central Florida. Local beneficiaries include Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida, Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida and Florida Impact.

Tasty Chomps’ Nhi Nguyen’s Top 5 Tastes at the Orlando Taste of the Nation 2016

1. The Capital Grille
   

   Chef: Jason O’Neill, Matthew Price
   Kona Rubbed Sliced Filet with Horseradish Cream and Sam’s Mashed Potatoes. “Melt-in-Your-Mouth” with very simple seasonings and sides making the beef the star of the dish. It had us coming back for thirds.
   

2. Seasons 52 Fresh Grill

   Chef: James Messinger
   Fresh Summer Truffle Risotto with shaved Italian Black Truffle, Roasted Mushrooms, Corn, Chive Oil
   

3. Artist’s Point at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort

   Chef: Michael Gonsalves
   Local Hen Egg-Yuzu Custard with Hibiscus, Lingonberry, Matcha, Garden Sorrel, and Wild Blooms. Incredibly engaging dessert with a slight acidity from the Yuzu. 

4. Highball and Harvest at Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes

   Chef: Nathan Hardin
   Braised Pork Belly from Palmetto Creek,  Zellwood Corn, Favas, Fennel, and Mustard Frills.

5.  Dragonfly Robata Grill & Sushi
   

   Chef: Ray Leung
   Sesame Soy Glazed Baby Octopus, Chilled and Skewered, Served Cold. I believe this caught everyone’s attention like an episode of “Bizarre Foods”. It gave me the familiar feeling of nightly street fares in Asia that’s fun and tasty.
   This list was just a small compilation of the many participating restaurants in Orlando. Here some more memories from the night:

Through all the fun and excitement the event exuded the important message that brought everyone together is that no kid should go hungry.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/OrlandoTaste
Twitter: @OrlandoTaste
Instagram: @OrlandoTaste
#OrlTaste

Executive Chef Wendy Lopez, a native of Michoacan, Mexico, began cooking at a young age while working in her family’s restaurant. After formal training at Le Cordon Bleu College in Orlando, she began her professional career at the Isleworth Golf and Country Club in Windermere. She went on to become sous chef under Certified Master Chef Russell Scott.

She has aided in the development of a unique menu featuring a robust selection of hot and cold tapas, paella variations and desserts. Using only the freshest imported ingredients, Chef Lopez combines traditional Spanish elements to create an authentic taste experience for the people of Orlando.

At Tapa Toro, Chef Wendy Lopez combines contemporary, Spanish cuisine with a vibrant, energetic atmosphere – bringing a fresh dining experience to the I-Drive 360 area. With a unique paella pit, vibrant tapas menu, and extensive selection of imported wines the restaurant takes you on a culinary journey of Spanish flavors and culture in the heart of Central Florida.

The restaurant recently invited us to attend TAPA TORO: SABOR! A SUMMER WINE DINNER EXPERIENCE with Executive Chef, Wendy Lopez & Chef de Cuisine, Francisco Galeano.

Each month, their seasoned culinary team brings a chef’s table with a new wine dinner series featuring 5 courses of off-the-menu dishes and fresh Spanish ingredients all complete with fine wines imported from remote regions in Spain.

http://tapatoro.restaurant/groups-events/summer-wine-dinners/

PRESS RELEASE

Orlando, FL – The Downtown Orlando Partnership (DOP), a founding partner of the Downtown Orlando Tours initiative, will launch the Crafty Cocktail Tour this weekend in the Central Business District. This new tour takes guests on a cocktail experience and explores some of Downtown’s best adult beverage locations.

“It’s been more than a year since we launched the Downtown Food Tour.” said Bridget Keefe, Executive Director of the Downtown Orlando Partnership. “We’ve had such a positive response from the community and visitors that we felt like it was time to expand our offerings.”

The Crafty Cocktail tour runs every Saturday from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. and features tastings from four local establishments. Guests will sample hand-crafted concoctions created by some of the area’s most creative mixologists, while learning about the history and culture of Downtown Orlando. Participating locations include Bauhaus, Courtesy Bar, Dapper Duck, Hen House and the Woods.

“Our hope with the new tour is to be able to share the story of Downtown’s growing craft beverage scene,” Keefe noted “and showcase the amazing establishments on the forefront of it all.”

Also launching this weekend under the Downtown Orlando Tours umbrella is the new Thornton Park Food Tour. This new tour will run on the second Saturday of each month from 4 – 6 p.m. in partnership with the Thornton Park District and Thornton Park Restaurant Group. Guests will be guided through the area and receive tastings from Anthony’s Pizzeria and Italian Restaurant, Baoery Asian Gastropub, Shari and Soco.

Both tours are now available to book by visiting www.downtownorlandotours.com.

PRESS RELEASE

ORLANDO, Fla. (September 13, 2016) – Tavistock Restaurant Collection announces today that Chroma Modern Bar + Kitchen, the anticipated Modern-American concept located in Lake Nona Town Center, will open to the neighborhood on Wednesday, September 21. The restaurant will offer eclectic small plates and is overseen by Executive Chef Jason Bergeron, who competed earlier this year on Food Network’s “Chopped Grill Masters.”

“We couldn’t be more excited to introduce Chroma to the neighborhood,” said Maurice O’Donaghue, General Manager, Chroma Modern Bar + Kitchen. “We want locals to feel that this is their home away from home, to sip on a cocktail, enjoy a bite and share in conversation.”

At the heart of Chroma’s 256-seat restaurant is an oversized bar, where locals can belly up, unwind and enjoy wines-on-tap, local draft beers and seven Tavistock private-label wines.

A selection of nine housemade cocktails created by Assistant General Manager Megan Harris include a signature Chroma Paloma ($10) with Stoli Ohranj, grapefruit juice, mint, and Coppertail Brewing Co. Wheat Stroke, to exciting twists on the classics like a Seasonal Sangria ($9), a Pineapple Ginger Caipirinha, ($11), Adam’s Got Mojo ($10) and an Ancho Daiquiri ($11).

Boasting a contemporary and communal dining atmosphere, Chroma’s extensive small plates menu takes a “something for everyone” approach with dishes inspired by a global spice palate.

Scratch dishes are designed to savor and satisfy ranging from Quail Egg Croquettes ($9), Roasted Edamame ($7), Wagyu Skirt Steak ($14), and Skillet-Roasted Clams ($11) to Guava and Goat Cheese Flatbread ($12).

Three, “For The Table” offerings are larger in size, served family-style and include a Crispy Pork Loin ($35), Flame Grilled Ribeye ($53) and Jambalaya ($35). Chroma’s menu is intentional in every sense; with an extensive vegetable selection to seafood and meat dishes.

A fresh focus fuels moderate menu changes to reflect what is local and in abundance.

Chroma’s open layout includes a main dining area with cozy banquette seating, an outdoor lounge and covered patio and a solarium complete with inspiring views of Lake Nona Town Center’s community artwork.

All dining options are available for private or semi-private group dining.
To make reservations or check out the full menu, visit ChromaLakeNona.com.

###

ABOUT CHROMA MODERN BAR + KITCHEN
Chroma Modern Bar + Kitchen is an original concept restaurant from Tavistock Restaurant Collection located in the Lake Nona Town Center. In design and cuisine, Chroma Modern Bar + Kitchen reflects the innovative Lake Nona community by incorporating a contemporary dining atmosphere with scratch-made small plates created by Executive Chef, Jason Bergeron. The restaurant is open daily for dinner and for lunch Monday-Friday. For more information or to make reservations, call 407-455-3435 or visit www.chromalakenona.com

ABOUT TAVISTOCK RESTAURANT COLLECTION
Tavistock Restaurant Collection is part of Tavistock Group, an international private investment organization founded by Joe Lewis. The collection operates award-winning restaurant concepts including Abe & Louie’s, Atlantic Fish, Atlas, AquaKnox, Blackhawk Grille, Cafe del Rey, Canvas Restaurant & Market, Canonita, Chroma Modern Bar + Kitchen, Coach Grill, Joe’s American Bar & Grill, Napa Valley Grille, Sapporo, Timpano, Top Catch, and ZED451. For more information, visit www.tavistockrestaurantcollection.com.

Check out this printout PDF we made to keep track of all the meals you have eaten this month! Thank you to our fellow foodie friend Lyne for the suggestion during our recent Orlando Foodie Forum dinner – hopefully next year Visit Orlando will create a nice one for us to print out.

Download the PDF – Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining Month 2016 – Restaurant Checklist PDF Printout

Also, make sure to sign up for our weekly e-mail newsletter to stay up to date with all that is going on in Orlando’s Foodie Scene. Subscribe to the TastyChomps Newsletter here

Chuy’s recently hosted a VIP Charity Night at their new Winter Park location where all proceeds of discounted beverages will benefit Give Kids The World. The founders, Mike and John, started Chuy’s with the belief that Chuy’s should always help the people in the neighborhoods they do business in, especially the youngest members: children.

Although the event was a hit, it was very crowded with no where to go or stand. Tables were all full with customers having a wonderful time inside and out of the restaurant. The main complaint is how a few members of the Chuy’s family were not friendly, patient nor respectful.

Why pick between tequila and beer when you can have both with Grandpa’s Brew. Nice and cool for a hot summer day.

Appetizer Plate – Chile con queso, nachos, deluxe quesadillas, chicken flautas, guacamole & sour cream.The Deluxe quesadillas are delicious, cheesy and the best of all the options on this plate.

Tacos Al Carbon – freshly made flour tortillas filled with fajita chicken or beef, grilled onions & green chiles.

Stacked Enchiladas – An authentic New Mexican recipe. Homemade blue corn tortillas stacked with freshly-roasted, hand-pulled chicken, cheese & Tomatillo sauce, topped with sour cream. The stacked enchiladas was not that great. Nothing special to say about it.

The Elvis Presley Memorial Combo – Beef Tex-Mex enchilada, cheese Ranchero enchilada, chicken Tomatillo enchilada, a seasoned ground sirloin crispy taco & homemade tostada chips dipped in chile con queso. This combination has a bit of everything and great for someone that wants to try it all.

Fajitas – a choice of beef, chicken or a combination, grilled with onions and peppers. Served with handmade flour tortillas, lettuce, guacamole, sour cream, cheese, pico de gallo, Mexican rice & refried beans. Order for one or two. The beef was a little over salted. Other than that, the dish was good.

Location for Winter Park Chuy’s: 107 S. Orange Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789

The Flame Broiler invites us to a location in Downtown Orlando. They are known for serving simple, healthy food at an affordable price. In Downtown Orlando, The Flame Broiler family is very tentative and kind to all guests who enter their doors.

The first location opened in 1995 in California by Young Lee. As of 2009, Mr. Lee began to give back by feeding the homeless as well as sponsor children in need. He is committed to sponsoring 2 children per location that opens. As of 2016, there are 180 The Flame Broiler Restaurants found in California, Arizona, Florida, Nevada, and Oklahoma.

Starting at only 140 calories, guests can choose from a base of white or brown rice or can forego rice altogether and opt for all freshly blanched vegetables (broccoli, carrots, cabbage) which is topped with your protein of choice (certified Angus beef, all-natural chicken or organic charbroiled tofu) and chopped green onions.

For an added flavor kick, guests can top their bowls off with its proprietary hot sauce made with cayenne peppers or their Korean BBQ inspired Magic Sauce. The Flame Broiler uses no dairy, trans-fat, skin, fryers or HFCS.

The Works Bowl with brown rice — consists of vegetables, beef, and chicken. The chicken and beef are delicious and well seasoned. The beef is slightly tough, but it is a better alternative than being too chewy. The vegetables are steamed and I find them to have great texture for my liking.

The Chicken Bowl with white rice — the chicken is tender and flavored well. The rice is nicely made.

The Tofu and Vegetable Bowl with brown rice — the tofu is soft and nicely flavored like the chicken.

For more information, please check out The Flame Broiler.

Address: 54 W Church St, Orlando, FL 32801, USA

Chicken Salad Chick is the nation’s only southern inspired, fast casual chicken salad restaurant concept known for its 15 different chicken salad flavors. We were invited to taste the restaurant’s limited-time fall menu, which includes Rockin’ Rita chicken salad and Strawberry Pecan Salad.

Rockin’ Rita is a spicy chicken salad flavor featuring Wickles Pickles Spicy Red Relish, a 70-year old family recipe that is known to pack a punch. Strawberry Pecan Salad, features dried cranberries, Fuji apples, strawberries, feta cheese and crushed pecans on a bed of spring mix lettuce with a homemade poppy seed vinaigrette dressing.

Enjoy a chicken salad sandwich with a soup on the side. The soup varies each day. Today’s soup is a chicken and artichoke, which is creamy and great for the upcoming fall season. With each sandwich, you can determine what bread to enjoy along with your chicken salad.

If you are not interested in the additional carbs of bread from the sandwich, you could order the Chick Trio. Take your pick of any three chicken salads or side items served on a bed of lettuce, accompanied by a pickle spear & wheat crackers.

For our visit, we decided on the Classic Carol, Fruity Fran, and Luau Lydia. Each have a unique touch to differentiate itself from the other flavors.

My favorite during this visit was the Luau Lydia, which contains a tropical blend of pineapple and macadamia nuts. The pineapple adds a sweet touch to the chicken salad without the crunch added by apples in the Fruity Fran.

Check out all of the flavors of chicken salad and the rest of the menu here: Chicken Salad Menu.

Location: 12101 University Blvd #200, Orlando, FL 32817, USA

Hours: Monday – Saturday 11am to 8pm

The Capital Grille recently unveiled a wonderful new bar menu featuring some new dishes at their Pointe Orlando and Mall at Millenia locations. Some of the highlights include the Cast Iron Garlic Shrimp as well as the Prosciutto Wrapped Mozzarella, easy to share by the plate, especially if you are stopping in for a quick bite before going shopping. The menu also feature classic favorites like the porcini rubbed ribeye steak and lobster mac and cheese if you get hungry for more.

The Capital Grille
Pointe Orlando
9101 International Dr · (407) 370-4392

The Capital Grille
The Mall at Millenia
4200 Conroy Road, Millenia Mall · (407) 351-2210

PAN-FRIED CALAMARI
with Hot Cherry Peppers.

PARMESAN TRUFFLE FRIES
Freshly grated cheese and white truffle oil.

MINI TENDERLOIN SLIDERS (3)
Mushroom Duxelle and Herbed Cheese
SEARED DRY AGED SIRLOIN
with Sweet Chili Vinaigrette and Wasabi Oil.

COCKTAIL PLATES TO SHARE
CAST IRON GARLIC SHRIMP
with Olive Oil Crostini.

IN FASHION
Russell’s Reserve 10 Year small batch bourbon, Grand Marnier and black walnut bitters, served over an orange ice sphere with an amarena cherry.

FIRE AND ICE
Casamigos Blanco Tequila with Ancho Reyes Chili Liqueur and fresh cucumber, lime and Fresno peppers.

MOJITO DE UVAS
Bacardi Light Rum, fresh squeezed lime juice, cane sugar syrup, fresh mint and green grapes, topped with chilled Champagne. Garnished with fresh mint.

BONE-IN KONA CRUSTED DRY AGED NY STRIP WITH SHALLOT BUTTER
Our acclaimed coffee-rubbed, boldly flavored NY strip. SEARED CITRUS GLAZED SALMON WITH MARCONA ALMONDS AND BROWN BUTTER
Served over haricots verts.

DRY AGED NY STRIP – 14 OZ
Our highly flavorful, hand-cut New York strip. LOBSTER MAC ‘N’ CHEESE
As magnificent as it sounds.
SOY GLAZED BRUSSELS SPROUTS WITH BACON
Sprouts with smoked bacon lardons.
SUSHI-GRADE SESAME SEARED TUNA WITH GINGERED RICE
Tuna prepared to your liking and served with sesame and ginger sauces.

BLACKBERRY BOURBON SIDECAR
Woodford Reserve handcrafted in small batches with blackberries, Cointreau, lemon juice and fresh thyme.

GRAPEFRUIT BUCK
Absolut Ruby Red with a splash of elderflower cordial, ginger beer and fresh squeezed lime juice. Topped with Campari and garnished with a fresh ruby red grapefruit wedge.

Chef Jason O’neill – Executive Chef and Partner of The Capital Grille at Mall at Millenia

A little late, but on Wednesday, April 20, the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce hosted the 31th annual Taste of Winter Park presented by CenturyLink, the organization’s annual food festival. More than 40 of the area’s finest restaurants served over 1,300 attendees with unlimited food and beverage samples. It’s one of my favorite food events to judge all year!

Check out their press release below for all the details and winners!

—————-

PRESS RELEASE

“The Taste of Winter Park continues to be one of Central Florida’s best foodie events,” said Patrick Chapin, President/CEO of the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce. “We’re proud to showcase the many fine dining opportunities in Winter Park and bring the community together for a fun evening.”

Throughout the event, guests had the opportunity to taste from more than 40 vendors, including nine new eateries, and partake in a silent auction and raffle drawing. The highlight of the evening was the awards presentation. Judges included Pam Brandon and Katie Farmand, editors, Edible Orlando; Lauren Delgado, food editor and restaurant critic, Orlando Sentinel; Josh Garrick, restaurant critic, Winter Park/Maitland Observer; Rona Ginden, dining editor, Winter Park Magazine; Ricky Ly, food blogger, Tasty Chomps.com; Rachel Williams, staff writer, Orlando Business Journal; and Scott Richardson, feature writer, The Park Press.

4 Rivers Smokehouse was honored with Best Main Course for its smoked pulled pork taco. Best Appetizer/Side Dish was presented to Umi for its unique Thai ciabatta sushi. Sweet! By Holly earned the Best Dessert award for its assorted mini cupcakes. The Best Booth Display went to Orchid Thai Cuisine. The Best Healthy Dish was presented to Create Your Nature, which is set to open this summer along Orange Avenue, for its acai bowl. Hamilton’s Kitchen at The Alfond Inn’s smoked pork rib was named the Best Fresh Florida Dish for use of locally-sourced ingredients. Finally, Rogue Pub took home the award for best beverage with its selections of Goose Island Ales.

The Taste of Winter Park is made possible by our presenting sponsor CenturyLink, and support from Aloma Bowl, Barefoot Wine & Bubbly, BLEAGOLF, C & S Press, Central Florida Lifestyle, Edible Orlando, Ferrell Wealth Management, Ferrell & Kelly LLC, Florida’s Finest Linen Service, Full Sail University, Hunter Vision, Integrative Physical Medicine, Lundev, Monark Premium Appliances, Mox?, PNC Bank, Renewal by Andersen, Rodan and Fields, 92.7 Smooth FM, Sysco Central Florida, The Park Press, Valencia College, WFTV Channel 9, Winter Park Magazine, Winter Park/ Maitland Observer, Winter Park Village, WUCF 89.9 FM and WMMO 98.9 FM.
The Taste of Winter Park is held annually at the Winter Park Farmers’ Market. For information on the 32nd annual Taste of Winter Park scheduled for April 19, 2017, contact the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce at (407) 644-8281, visit www.winterpark.org or follow the event on Facebook and Twitter.

The Winter Park Chamber of Commerce represents more than 800 businesses, community organizations and individuals in an effort to develop, promote and sustain a vital, thriving business climate throughout the community and to initiate, support and enhance the civic, educational and economic well-being of the area. For more information, visit www.winterpark.org.

This month, our Tasty Chomps Orlando Foodie Forum partnered up Visit Orlando and Urban Tide at Hyatt Regency Orlando to present a preview of the upcoming Magical Dining Month.

The 11th Annual Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining Month is a month-long program (with a special preview week starting Monday August 29) where participating restaurants feature three-course, prix fixe dinners at the exceptional value of $33 per person. One dollar from each meal sold will benefit The Russell Home for Atypical Children.

Magical Dining Month takes place every night, August 29 – October 2, 2016, during the restaurant’s normal dinner hours. More than 90 Orlando area restaurants are participating this year. For a complete list of participating restaurants and their special menus visit MagicalDining.com.

The $33 prix fixe meal covers a three-course dinner that includes the choice of an appetizer, entrée and dessert from the restaurant’s Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining Month menu. Tax and gratuity is not included.

Whether you arrive at the restaurant as a walk-in guest or with advance reservations, simply ask your server for the Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining Month menu. No vouchers, coupons or flyers are needed.

Urban Tide at Hyatt Regency Orlando, once known as Napa at the Peabody Hotel on International Drive, retains much of its sophisticated, dark, wood-paneled furnishings and modern pattern décor. The restaurant is led by Chef Jared Gross, who has been with the hotel for many years, from Napa and beyond.

Check out below for photos from this wonderful meal – it was truly a treat with lots of delicious food for a great price. Well done by the staff and chefs at Urban Tide all around. Join the Tasty Chomps Orlando Foodie Forum to find out about the next special dinner event! (which will be announced Very Soon!)

Visit Orlando Magical Dining Menu
for URBAN TIDE

Choice of Appetizers
Plantain Crusted Diver Scallop
Beet root mash, pickled corn and chorizo salsa

Crispy Pork Belly
Apple mustard, Brussel sprout and hazelnut slaw

Little Gem Lettuces’
Roasted artichoke, heart of palm, piquillo peppers, charred ricotta salata,
lemon thyme vinaigrette

Choice of Entrèes
Florida Atlantic Swordfish
Olive oil and green onion crushed potatoes, Maine lobster bisque

Grilled Skirt Steak
Honey roasted butternut squash, cilantro pesto

Smoked Fettuccini Pasta
Edamame, Cipollini onions, arugula, oven dried tomato and crème
fraiche cream sauce (vegetarian)

Choice of Desserts
Grilled Bread Pudding
Blackberry “au jus”, vanilla ice cream

Intense chocolate mousse
Caramelized macadamia nuts, fudgy brownie bites

Urban Tide – Hyatt Regency Orlando
9801 International Drive Orlando, FL 32819
Phone: (407) 284-1234

On August 25, 2016, Newk’s Eatery invited Tasty Chomps to their first Orlando location for a nice tasting. Newk’s Eatery is founded by Chris and Lori Newcomb in Jackson, Mississippi. They wish to invest in Orlando due to our family oriented community and casual environment.

With delicious food, they focus on the health of the community as they created Newk’s Cares to support ovarian cancer awareness and fundraising campaign, which is inspired by Lori Newcomb’s Stage IIIC ovarian cancer diagnosis in 2013.  As of now, over $420,000 is raised for the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund Alliance. Moreover, Newk’s Eatery plans on matching contributions from their August 15 opening at this location to the OneOrlando Fund.

Newk’s Eatery imports the best meat and cheese they can find as well as fresh produces from local farmers’ markets for meals to be prepared from scratch at each location. Everything is prepared by hand every day — hand-chopped vegetables, hand-cut fruit, and hand-rolled pizza dough. Chefs at each location grills premium cuts of chicken, steak, and salmon over a flame.

Half sandwich and side — Newk’s “Q” and Six Cheese Pimiento with Bacon.

• Newk’s “Q” — Sliced flame-grilled chicken, thick-cut bacon, Ammerländer Swiss cheese and our signature white BBQ sauce served on Newk’s famous French Parisian bread. The chicken is tender and juicy with a savory touch of bacon doused in a unique sauce.
• Six Cheese Pimiento with Bacon — Five Cheese Mac with the extra creamy kick of pimiento cheese topped with crumbled bacon. A mac and cheese to die for! This is one of the best mac and cheese I have ever had and is at a reasonable price.

Spinach & Feta — A creamy mix of Feta cheese, spinach, potatoes, onion and sour cream garnished with fresh basil (Vegetarian). Soup availability is based off of the daily soup schedule. This specific soup is served on Mondays and Thursdays. This is nice and creamy; easy to eat any day of the week. As I was eating this soup, I wish I had it each time I was previously sick and needed something warm for my throat.

Simply Salad — Arcadian mixed greens, sweet grape tomatoes, cucumbers, shredded carrots, aged cheddar cheese, house-made croutons and a dressing of your choice; in my case, I chose a ginger dressing. Refreshing for a hot summer day. Make sure you don’t let it sit too long because the dressing will become overpowering when the greens are soaking in it.

Deluxe Pizza — Campioni pepperoni, mortadella, smoked ham, ripe Roma tomatoes, red and yellow bell peppers, steak-cut portabella mushrooms, imported kalamata olives, artichoke hearts, house-shredded mozzarella and provolone cheeses over tomato sauce. Each ingredient is fresh with each bite, but best part of this pizza is the cheese. After finishing this pizza, I wish I had more with extra cheese.

For more information, please visit Newk’s Eatery.

Location: 1448 N Alafaya Trail, Orlando, FL 32828, USA

Hours: Monday-Sunday 11am to 10pm.

Bahama Breeze Island Grille has launched its first-ever, summer-long Reggae Fest, delighting locals throughout the summer with some of the best Reggae musicians – and Jamaican flavors – around. The new summer menu is now live as part of the celebration, delighting locals with the tastes and sounds of summer (and some of the best Reggae musicians around).

During our visit to Bahama Breeze, we experienced the very best and we had one of their best family members helping us enjoy our time. Our waitress, Olivia, was very cordial, fun, and honest with her opinions on what dishes we should experience.

Tostones with Chicken – direct from San Juan, twice-fried plantains topped with chicken, sweet peppers, mushrooms, melted cheese, and tomato salsa. The chicken adds a tender and flavorful touch to the plantains that were used as a delivery mode between the plate and your mouth.

Smothered Pork Goodness – a hearty pile of pulled pork, chorizo, and cheese stuffed yuca topped with caramelized onions, guava BBQ sauce and more cheese. The pulled pork is very tender and juicy.

Sesame Crusted Ahi – seared sesame crusted Ahi tuna served chilled with greens, tomatoes, cucumber, and a sweet mango glaze. The sweet mango glaze is unique for the Ahi tuna, but the flavor grows on you until every piece of tuna is in your tummy.

Naan served with a strong garlic crouton butter. If this is at your table, you better hope your significant other takes a few bites as well or else it will ruin the mood for you.

Curry Goat – guests looking for a true authentic experience should look no further. This traditional, full flavored Caribbean dish is the Reggae Fest Chef Special. The goat is tender and the flavors are overpowering. If you are not a fan of heat, you may prefer to avoid the spicy curry goat. On the other hand, the flavors will be wonderful enough to try with a nice drink on standby.

Taste of Jamaica – feast on this festive plate of Jamaican Favorites: pulled pork, jerk chicken, beef empanada, callaloo, sweet plantains, yellow rice and black beans. Each section of this plate has a different flavor than the other sections. Each item of meat is very tender and juicy, which can have a sweet note added if a bit of the mango sauce is added for each bite.

Jerk Chicken Pasta – Sliced jerk chicken breast, fresh asparagus and mushrooms tossed in a Parmesan cream sauce with bow-tie pasta. The pasta is nicely made and all the flavors mesh together well.

Rebecca’s Key Lime Pie – Bahama Breeze’s original, handmade with brown sugar crust and golden meringue. This slice is nice to have on a hot summer day as long as you make sure you eat it before the day warms up the pie.

Chocolate Island – Rich chocolate mousse on a fudge brownie island in chocolate sauce and vanilla bean anglaise. The fudge brownie is delightful and rich alone. With the chocolate sauce and vanilla bean anglaise, you might have a cavity by the end of the night.

Warm Chocolate Pineapple Upside-Down Cake – A warm, rich chocolate cake with a chocolate molten center topped with caramelized pineapple, served with raspberry sauce and fresh Island fruit. The fruity flavors add an uncommon touch to the chocolate cake. This is a dessert to enjoy indoors and in air condition.

Coconut Cream Pie – Creamy coconut custard spiked with coconut rum in a graham cracker crust. With homemade whipped cream piled high and toasted coconut flakes. This coconut cream pie is our favorite item on the menu at Bahama Breeze. It is best right after coming out of the fridge. The toasted coconut flakes add a different texture to the smooth custard that creates flavors that will dance on your tongue. You will wish the flavors dance a bit longer on your tongue than it does.

Ultimate Pineapple (front) – Spiced Run, Coco López and Bacardi Black Rum swirled with strawberry ice and served in a freshly cup pineapple. If you want a secret twist, ask to have mango ice added for a wonderful touch. Even the aftertaste is wonderful! Can be made virgin style.

Frozen Bahamarita (back) – a signature frozen Margarita, made with Sauza Tequila, strawberry and mango ices. Served with a shot of Cactus Juice Schnapps. Delicious and refreshing, but it isn’t as great as the Ultimate Pineapple with mango. Can be made virgin style.

One Love – this tasty and refreshing cocktail is made with everything nice and all fruits ripe. Malibu Banana Rum, Pineapple, Orange and Guava juice shaken together, topped with an Appleton Rum floater and a dehydrated pineapple. Can be made virgin style.

Red Stripe Beer Buckets – the perfect deck-side brew for a group of friends. This pale lager, made in Jamaica, will have you and your crew drifting to off to the islands.

Reggae Fest will bring the “don’t worry, be happy” attitude to life with the sounds, tastes, sights and vibes of Jamaica. Bahama Breeze will turn up the party every Saturday during Reggae Fest (now – August 13th), featuring live bands in all 36 locations across the country.

It doesn’t stop there – to continue the celebration, Bahama Breeze is giving away a cruise for one righteous winner and a friend to the JamRock 5-night cruise to Jamaica.

You can learn more here: Reggae Fest

When it comes to vacation resorts, Orlando is home to many, but few offer the level of luxury and impeccable cuisine as Reunion Resort. This world class resort which sits on 2,300 acres of beautiful Florida land, and offers some delectable choices when it comes to dining fare.

The Grande Lobby Sushi Bar is a prime choice for the casual sushi aficionado; from spicy tuna rolls to their signature Grande Reunion Roll, any choice is a good choice when deciding on sushi. Reunion also has plans to expand their sushi bar and selections in the near future.

Forte is one of Reunion’s signature restaurants and is currently modernizing while maintaining focus on the culinary history of Tuscany & Milan. Chef Russell Stehle created his own taste of some classic pairings.

Compressed Watermelon with Feta and Mint was a delightful and refreshing way to start the meal. The sweetness of the melon paired with the balsamic reduction was a pleasurable contrast while coupled with the saltiness of the Feta and bright flavor of the micro mint.

The Panzanella Salad was a continuation of bright and bold flavor from the Heirloom tomatoes to made- in- house croutons that served as great vehicles for Forte’s signature vinaigrette.

Braised Beef Short Rib with Mushroom Risotto, Grilled Shrimp and Fried Leeks was the main course for this meal. The risotto was cooked to delicate perfection and plated beautifully. This dish combined all the best tastes of umami and was by far my favorite.

Wine Pairings

Rosso Di Montalcino Col D’Orcia 2011

Château Montelena Chardonnay 2010

For dessert, Reunion Resort’s flagship restaurant Eleven, located on the 11th floor, offered a selection of mini pastries including s’mores tarts, creme brulee and many others. My personal favorite was the mini fruit tart with a combination of sweetened cream and fresh fruits.

Reunion Resort is a hidden gem along Florida’s culinary map. This is a worthwhile destination that offers a unique dining experience. I highly recommend visiting Reunion Resort on your next trip to the Sunshine State.

Reunion Resort

7593 Gathering Drive Kissimmee, Florida 34747

http://www.reunionresort.com/