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9 Reasons to Visit Spoleto Restaurant for Fast Italian

By Christina Thomas Leave a Comment

9 Reasons to Visit Spoleto Restaurant for Fast Italian - restaurant review from GoEpicurista.com, top food writer and blogger in Orlando, FL

Spoleto Restaurant Offers Culinary Freedom for Fast Delicious Italian Meals

A trip to Italy is high on my ‘travel someday list’. Until the actual trip happens, food is the next best thing. Dreams of travel usually inspire where and what I eat so I’m always in search of new restaurants to keep the travel inspiration alive. Plus, it gives me an “excuse” to get together with friends more often. It’s a win-win!

I recently visited Spoleto Restaurant in Winter Park, Florida and learned it combines the speed of fresh-casual service with the sophistication of an Italian restaurant and gourmet-quality food at a very affordable price.

Read on and find out why this fast-casual chain is not only a winner in the market (It was recognized in the Fast Casual Top 100, a list of the industry’s most significant brands) but also a perfect place to get together with friends and family to dream of travels to Italy. Here are 9 Reasons to visit Spoleto Restaurant when you’re in the mood for a fast, delicious Italian meal that won’t break the bank.

Go “Make Someday Happen!”

9 Reasons to Visit Spoleto Restaurant for Fast Italian - restaurant review from GoEpicurista.com, top food writer and blogger in Orlando, FL

1. Culinary Freedom


I love the term “culinary freedom” and that’s exactly what this fast-casual chain offers guests. You have the freedom to be the chef and create your own Italian dish. Except here, all you have to do is point to more than 30 different farm-fresh and house prepared ingredients to top your pasta, salad or flatbread, and a professional culinary team will actually do all the work, assemble and prepare it for you, exactly how you want it!

9 Reasons to Visit Spoleto Restaurant for Fast Italian - restaurant review from GoEpicurista.com, top food writer and blogger in Orlando, FL

“The goal at Spoleto is to give our guests the Culinary Freedom to experiment with amazing Italian Culinary. We want them to be in control of this open kitchen, working with our chefs to craft their perfect meal” said John Velasquez, President of Spoleto USA.

9 Reasons to Visit Spoleto Restaurant for Fast Italian - restaurant review from GoEpicurista.com, top food writer and blogger in Orlando, FL

The Spoleto Way

2. Polpette Grande! Fantastic Pastas & Flatbreads.

You want a giant meatball? You got it! Order the giant meatball and hear the staff all yell out in unison: “Pollpette Grande” – a celebration comes with each meatball!

9 Reasons to Visit Spoleto Restaurant for Fast Italian - restaurant review from GoEpicurista.com, top food writer and blogger in Orlando, FL

Spaguetti Polpette Grande!

Select your pasta. In the mood for Penne, Spaghetti, Cavatappi or Fettuccine? How about whole grain penne, gluten-free Fettuccine?

9 Reasons to Visit Spoleto Restaurant for Fast Italian - restaurant review from GoEpicurista.com, top food writer and blogger in Orlando, FL

Pick Your Pasta

Then, select your toppings from their expansive selection of fresh certified organic and non-GMO ingredients. and your sauce – choose from pesto, marinara, Bolognese, Alfredo or chicken broth all prepared in house daily.

9 Reasons to Visit Spoleto Restaurant for Fast Italian - restaurant review from GoEpicurista.com, top food writer and blogger in Orlando, FL

Want truffle roasted mushrooms, roasted tomatoes and artichoke hearts? They got it!

Add a house-made favorite protein like that giant meatball, link sausage, or roasted chicken.

9 Reasons to Visit Spoleto Restaurant for Fast Italian - restaurant review from GoEpicurista.com, top food writer and blogger in Orlando, FL

Lots of great protein!

Don’t forget the finishing touches like fresh Parmesan cheese, truffle oil, and Italian herbs.

9 Reasons to Visit Spoleto Restaurant for Fast Italian - restaurant review from GoEpicurista.com, top food writer and blogger in Orlando, FL

Lots of Fresh Grated Parmesan Cheese!

9 Reasons to Visit Spoleto Restaurant for Fast Italian - restaurant review from GoEpicurista.com, top food writer and blogger in Orlando, FL

Italian Herbs To Finish!

If you’re not up to creating your own and just want the chef to select for you, go for “Chef Inspired Recipes” such as Penne Gambaretto with roasted red onions, tomatoes, garlic, zucchini, shrimp and pesto cream sauce.

9 Reasons to Visit Spoleto Restaurant for Fast Italian - restaurant review from GoEpicurista.com, top food writer and blogger in Orlando, FL

A tasting of Penne Gamberetto

My favorite, Spicy Rose a spicy number made of Cavatappi pasta, roasted garlic, red peppers, tomatoes, red onions with crushed red peppers and a rose sauce. It had that perfect zing of flavor and heat!

9 Reasons to Visit Spoleto Restaurant for Fast Italian - restaurant review from GoEpicurista.com, top food writer and blogger in Orlando, FL

If you like it hot! A tasting of Spicy Rose

If you love Carbonara, this is one of their most popular Chef Creations. Fettucini A La Carbonara with herb roasted chicken, bacon, baby spinach, carrots, peas, roasted red onions and signature Alfredo sauce. Can you say yum?

9 Reasons to Visit Spoleto Restaurant for Fast Italian - restaurant review from GoEpicurista.com, top food writer and blogger in Orlando, FL

A tasting of Fettuccini Carbonara

In the mood for a warm, crispy flatbread? Guests can select from the same fresh ingredients to dress it up before it’s placed in the 1500 degree stone fired oven! Top it off with balsamic glaze, fresh herbs, and fresh grated parmesan cheese and voila! A creation all your own!

Try the Burrata and Prosciutto Caprese ($10) with cherry tomatoes, red onions, marinara, Italian cheeses and balsamic glaze drizzle.

9 Reasons to Visit Spoleto Restaurant for Fast Italian - restaurant review from GoEpicurista.com, top food writer and blogger in Orlando, FL

3. Fig Prosciutto & Burrata, oh my! Fresh Salads.

When you’re not feeling like pasta and flatbreads, go with greens! A variety of salads are on the menu, or create your own. The Fig Prosciutto and Burrata Cheese is an absolute winner! Arugula, strawberries, prosciutto, burrata cheese tossed with balsamic vinaigrette. served with crispy oven-baked bread with fig jam. To die for!

9 Reasons to Visit Spoleto Restaurant for Fast Italian - restaurant review from GoEpicurista.com, top food writer and blogger in Orlando, FL

All of Spoleto’s salad greens – arugula, romaine, Arcadian spring mix, and baby spinach – and most of its produce are now certified organic and sourced from Florida growers like Earthbound Farm, Organic Valley, and Foxy Organic by The Nunes Company.

9 Reasons to Visit Spoleto Restaurant for Fast Italian - restaurant review from GoEpicurista.com, top food writer and blogger in Orlando, FL

Fresh Local Greens

Choose from the same local ingredients, cheeses, and proteins like herb marinated shrimp, prosciutto or roasted herb chicken and then select from Spoleto’s house-made dressings (balsamic vinaigrette, Italian vinaigrette, Caesar).

“We’ve worked very hard with our distributors to find local growers so we can source as much produce as possible that is certified organic,” said Velasquez. “It’s important to us and we know it’s important to many of our guests, so we’re very proud to now offer them these organic ingredients. Culinary Freedom promotes conscious eating, allowing guests to select from healthy and mostly organic options for a reasonable price. We are constantly exploring and evolving all of our offerings to give guests the healthiest and most flavorful Italian culinary experience.”

9 Reasons to Visit Spoleto Restaurant for Fast Italian - restaurant review from GoEpicurista.com, top food writer and blogger in Orlando, FL

A Tasting of Caesar Salad

4. Cheers! Affordable Wines & Beer Pairings.

Pair your entree with a selection of affordable wines like Tolloy Pinot Grigio, Ruffino Lodola Nuova or Querceto Chianti Classico, ranging in price from $4-7 glass / $15-$22 bottle.

9 Reasons to Visit Spoleto Restaurant for Fast Italian - restaurant review from GoEpicurista.com, top food writer and blogger in Orlando, FL

Cheers!

Sit back and clink glasses with friends. At these prices, you can have a bottle or two!

9 Reasons to Visit Spoleto Restaurant for Fast Italian - restaurant review from GoEpicurista.com, top food writer and blogger in Orlando, FL

By the bottle or the glass!

A variety of local and imported beers are also on the menu including popular favorites like Crooked Can from Winter Garden and Cigar City from Tampa, Florida and Peroni from Italy, ranging in price from $4-$6.

5. Yum! Scrumptious Desserts.

Don’t skip dessert. Never skip dessert! The Nutella Flatbread with fresh strawberries, Panna Cotta with strawberry gelle and Nutella Mousse with “Baci” Crumble are all worthy of indulgence.

9 Reasons to Visit Spoleto Restaurant for Fast Italian - restaurant review from GoEpicurista.com, top food writer and blogger in Orlando, FL

A Sweet Way To End

6. Not Fine Dining but Finer Fast Dining.


Spoleto is not five star fine dining. They don’t aim to be. But they do provide a finer fast casual experience. All entrees are beautifully served on china, not disposable ware. You will also have real silverware not plastic.

9 Reasons to Visit Spoleto Restaurant for Fast Italian - restaurant review from GoEpicurista.com, top food writer and blogger in Orlando, FL

Want a bite?

They carefully source high quality ingredients mostly imported from Italy and local certified organic produce. You can’t beat this quality for the price.

9 Reasons to Visit Spoleto Restaurant for Fast Italian - restaurant review from GoEpicurista.com, top food writer and blogger in Orlando, FL

Beautiful presentation!

You will see fun art on the walls, hear pleasant music in the background with a funky techno lounge vibe – not the cheesy Italian O Sole Mio variety – and enjoy a comfortable environment with rustic communal tables, soft lighting and a creative sculpture of pans on the ceiling.

9 Reasons to Visit Spoleto Restaurant for Fast Italian - restaurant review from GoEpicurista.com, top food writer and blogger in Orlando, FL

The staff is attentive, will deliver food to your table and has a good time with customers. “We do everything with passion, love and care” says executive chef Laura Henderson. You can hear the passion in her voice as she describes each dish. You can taste it with every bite.

9 Reasons to Visit Spoleto Restaurant for Fast Italian - restaurant review from GoEpicurista.com, top food writer and blogger in Orlando, FL

7. Easy Order On The Go.

Spoleto Restaurant is making it easy for guests who can’t dine in, to still enjoy. In a hurry? Order online and pick up and go. Have a big group to feed? Special catering options for meetings, special events and large groups are offered. Want to stay at in and get delivery? The restaurants partners with delivery services Order Up and Amazon Prime to bring Spoleto meals to your home or office.

Use Spoleto’s app for simple ordering and great rewards. The app’s features include:

    ^ Spoleto Takeout: a mobile ordering system to avoid the lines – order and pay directly from Spoleto’s app.
    ^ Spoleto Mobile Pay: Easily add money to Spoleto mobile pay and process payments digitally
    ^ Loyalty Card: Allows users to keep track of all rewards through the app
    ^ Spoleto Current Events: Keeps users engaged on all social platforms and up to date on current events for all restaurants

Additionally, the app allows users to save payment information, favorite locations and meals, and reminds users of special offers and daily promotions. To incentivize people to download the app, Spoleto is offering a complimentary build your own pasta, on the virtual loyalty card that is redeemable during the guest’s second visit, or any time after.

“We designed this app with total convenience in mind – from ordering through the app, to our Spoleto mobile pay card, we wanted to make the ordering experience as easy as possible,” said Luis Pestonit, U.S. company technology manager. “To ensure our customers know we appreciate them, our team even introduced the loyalty card – where users can easily build up rewards after every visit, or after every mobile order from the Spoleto app. Users can also receive a free Nutella flatbread on their birthday.” Spoleto’s app is available for free download through the Apple and Google Play Store and is compatible with iOS and Android devices.

9 Reasons to Visit Spoleto Restaurant for Fast Italian - restaurant review from GoEpicurista.com, top food writer and blogger in Orlando, FL

8. Central Florida Roots and Community Involvement


Spoleto may be a chain restaurant but they firmly believe in being a part of the local community and are rooted in Central Florida. I learned that although the chain originated in Brazil (where it is mega-sized with over 380 locations overseas), when they decided to open in the US, they made dramatic changes to the concept, the menu and the dining experience. In addition, their commitment to local charities and special offers for students are a few ways of how they are a part of the community.

“We’ve created a concept that is proving to be a big hit with our guests looking for creative, fresh, Italian food at a great value,” said John Velasquez, President of Spoleto USA. “We are poised for significant growth across the Unites States. We love that the brand was born right here in Orlando, and we’re very excited about future locations throughout Orlando.”

9 Reasons to Visit Spoleto Restaurant for Fast Italian - restaurant review from GoEpicurista.com, top food writer and blogger in Orlando, FL

Tell them what you want and they will make it for you, exactly how you like it!

9. Special Discounts & Celebrations


On various holidays, Spoleto offers special discounts, such as the 50% discount for National Ravioli Day on March 20 or a free spaguetti on National Spaguetti Day. Be on the lookout for announcements on their social media.

You know ravioli is good when you can eat it without sauce and it tastes amazing. We sampled their Four Cheese and Chicken & Cheese stuffed ravioli, specially made for Spoleto and imported from Italy.

9 Reasons to Visit Spoleto Restaurant for Fast Italian - restaurant review from GoEpicurista.com, top food writer and blogger in Orlando, FL

Ravioli so good you can eat it without sauce!

Restaurant Information:


Spoleto Central Florida Locations:

    ^ Winter Park: 349 N. Orlando Ave, Winter Park, FL.
    ^ UCF: 12101 University Blvd, Ste 219 Orlando, FL.
    ^ Florida Mall: 8001 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Ste. 199 Orlando, FL.
    ^ Windermere: 4750 The Grove Dr, The Grove shopping plaza, Windermere, FL.

For more information, check out Spoleto’s Website and follow on social media: Facebook,
Twitter, and Instagram.

If you’re looking for a fast, easy and delicious Italian meal to share with friends and family, I hope the above 9 reasons to visit Spoleto will inspire you to go! Make Someday Happen!

9 Reasons to Visit Spoleto Restaurant for Fast Italian - restaurant review from GoEpicurista.com, top food writer and blogger in Orlando, FL

PIN THIS FOR LATER!

Cheers!

Go Epicurista

Disclosure: I was a media guest during a preview event to sample the Spoleto experience. No compensation was received and I was under no obligation to write this post. As always, I only share with you experiences and products I love and are worth celebrating to inspire you to Go #MakeSomedayHappen one delicious bite, sip and trip at at time! Cheers!

9 Reasons to Visit Spoleto Restaurant for Fast Italian - restaurant review from GoEpicurista.com, trusted food writer and blogger in Orlando, FL

Don’t forget dessert! The Nutella Mousse with Baci Crumble and Panna Cotta with Strawberry Gelle are sweet perfection!

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Filed Under: Go Travel & Dine Orlando Tagged With: Fast Italian Restaurant, Orlando Restaurant, Spoleto, Spoleto Restaurant

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About Christina Thomas

I'm Christina, a hospitality consultant, freelance writer, food & travel enthusiast, brand cheerleader, ice cream fanatic, chocoholic, and eternal optimist on a mission to #MakeSomedayHappen one delicious bite, sip and trip at a time. Celebrating life with great food, wine and friends throughout Central Florida and everywhere I GO! I want to inspire you to take time out of your busy schedule to do the same. GO celebrate life today, for someday may never come. Join me and GO Epicurista!

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Meet your Chief Epicurista

I'm Christina, a hospitality consultant, freelance writer, food & travel enthusiast, brand cheerleader, ice cream fanatic, chocoholic, and eternal optimist on a mission to #MakeSomedayHappen one delicious bite, sip and trip at a time. Celebrating life with great food, wine and friends throughout Central Florida and everywhere I GO! I want to inspire you to take time out of your busy schedule to do the same. GO celebrate life today, for someday may never come. Join me and GO Epicurista! Find out more...

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😎 Chill in the sand-bottom pool with drink in hand (we did this most of the day!) it was glorious!
🚿 Wetsuits, masks, snorkel, lockers, & showers 
🐬 Swim with dolphins experience (for additional fee)
Stay tuned for more about the delicious new Caribbean menu and cocktails at Hibiscus Hideaway & Blue Bamboo Bar, all-new food and beverage outlets. I was very impressed with their Food & Beverage program. 
Highly recommend this experience for locals and visitors. The entire day felt like a true vacation! 
💥 Limited time offer: Florida residents save 30% on their 2023 visits and out of state guests save 20% on a Signature Dolphin Swim Package. You can visit anytime in 2023 based on availability but must book by 3/12/23. Options for packages with admission to @seaworldorlando @aquaticaorlando & @bushgardenstampa available 
Go #MakeSomedayHappen 
(hosted) @DiscoveryCove 
#GoEpicOrlando #DiscoveryCove #LoveOrlando
Orlando’s OG Coffee Shop is Back! Where are you Orlando’s OG Coffee Shop is Back! Where are you getting your caffeine & brunch fix this weekend?
@barniescoffeeandtea flagship cafe in Park Avenue, Winter Park has now re-opened with a brighter modern look, new breakfast, lunch & brunch menu, and new coffee blends. Go check it out! 
I was invited to a preview and loved doing a coffee tasting of 4 blends with Christian, Barnie’s head coffee roaster. My favorite was the Guatemala Gehsa with citrus, cocoa nibs and orange blossom notes. We also sampled new menu items. Don’t miss the Shakshuka & the Popovers!
Here’s what we sampled:
☕️ Coffee:
✨Barnie’s Cafe Blend
✨Guatemala Gehsa
✨Birthday Cake Batter (notes of vanilla sprinkles)
✨UCF Pegasus Blend (notes of chocolate & caramel!) yum! 
> I couldn’t resist getting a latte even though it was 6pm! 🤣 Barista Renata did a fab vanilla latte! 
🍳 Breakfast:
✨ Signature Popovers
✨French Toast with fresh truit
✨Shakshuka with poached egg
✨Seasonal Quiche
🥪 Lunch:
✨Cuban Sandwich
✨Roasted BeetSalad
Did you know Barnie’s is Orlando’s original coffee shop? It opened right here in Winter Park in 1980!
Go support local! #MakeSomedayHappen 
#GoEpicOrlando #LoveOrlando #barniescoffeeandtea #orlandocoffee
Hey Orlando Foodies, @orlandocitysc and @orlpride Hey Orlando Foodies, @orlandocitysc and @orlpride games at @exploriastadium just got a whole lot tastier!
Five #OrlandoMade local restaurants are now permanent concessions vendors so you can tame your hunger with the best local tacos, hot dogs, BBQ, Chicken & Burgers in Orlando! 
Thank you Exploria Stadium for inviting me to the media preview. Can’t wait to go cheer on our 2022 US Open Champions at the season opener this Saturday!
Here’s a preview of what we sampled: 
🌮 BLACK ROOSTER TAQUERIA - Chicken Tinga Taco on Flour Tortilla, w. lettuce, radish, cotija cheese, cilantro. Love those tacos! It was nice to see owner Juliana Calloway and Chief Tasting Officer Ryder Calloway dancing! 🕺🏻 @blkroostertaco 🙌🏼
📍 The Wall / Section 24
🌭 HARRELL’S HOT DOGS - Orlando City Stadium Dog features a Nathan’s Hot Dog topped with House Red Onion Sauce, Sauerkraut & Sport Peppers and finished with a Spicy Brown Mustard. Nice to meet owners Drew & David Cardaci! @_whats.up.dog_ 🙌🏼
📍 Section 30
🍖 4 RIVERS SMOKEHOUSE - Orlando’s favorite Pulled Pork Sandwich! Didn’t get to see owner John Rivers did you know you can now pick up 4R sauces & spices at Publix?! @4riverssmokehouse 🙌🏼
📍 Section 31
🐓 THE COOP by 4Rivers - Hand-breaded Chicken Tenders with 4R BBQ sauce @thecoop_wp 🙌🏼
📍 Section 9
🍔 TEAK NEIGHBORHOOD GRILL - Drunken Monk Burger with Smoked Bacon, Provolone Cheese, Roasted Cherry Tomotoes, house-made Angry Orchard Onion Jam, on Herb Mayo & Melted White Cheddor on a Pretzel Bun with Teak Chips. Best Burger in Orlando!  It was so nice to meet owner Jon Proechel after all these years of being a fan of their epic burgers! @teakneighborhoodgrill 🙌🏼
📍 Section 18
🍹MANE-GO MARGARITA - In The Wild Margarita with @camarenatequila - super tasty! 
⭐️ FYI - A Rotating Vendor Cart will feature @cholodogs & @sushieatstation among others 
⚽️ Will you be at the season opener this Saturday? 
#VamosOrlando Let’s Go! #ManEveryWall 💜 
Hosted #GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #ThingsToDoinOrlando
Happy #NationalMargaritaDay 🎉 This is “NOT E Happy #NationalMargaritaDay 🎉
This is “NOT EVERYONE’S MARGARITA” -  But it is mine! Made with Vida Mezcal, Cuervo Traditional Plata Tequila, Jalapeño, Creme de Mure, House Sour, & Black Salt. Epic! 
📍 Go get yours at @paddlefishorl in @disneysprings
Cheers! 
#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #DisneySprings
Hey Wine Lovers, I almost missed it’s #NationalD Hey Wine Lovers, I almost missed it’s #NationalDrinkWineDay 🥂
Here’s my 3 Favorite Wine Bars in Orlando: 
🍷 @quantumleapwinery - Orlando’s only sustainable winery & cidery, located in Mills 50 District. Try Kaley’s Rescue Red Blend & don’t miss the @thetastytrio “Wine, Cheese & Chocolate”events. 
🍷 @viniawinekitchen - fantastic boutique wines & Italian / Brazilian shareable plates in a charming intimate setting, located in Winter Park. Be sure to ask owner Fabio for his recommendations! 
🍷 @winebargeorge - Orlando’s only Master Sommelier owned restaurant with over 160 wines by the glass, bottle & ounce, located in Disney Springs. Say hi to somm genius George Miliotes and don’t miss their fab boards & wines from around the globe! 
Go #MakeSomedayHappen 
#GoEpicOrlando #OrlandoWine #loveOrlando
Don’t miss “Eat Ice Cream For Breakfast Day” Don’t miss “Eat Ice Cream For Breakfast Day” on Saturday 2/18! 
@kellyshomemadeicecream has created special breakfast-themed ice cream flavors for this annual International Childhood Cancer Awareness event
Order a cup, cone or shake or better yet, get an Ice Cream Flight & try all four! 
🥞 Blueberry Pancake (My favorite!)
🥣 Breakfast Buddies
🥓 Maple Bourbon Bacon
💥 Cinnamon Crunch
🗓️ When: Saturday February 18th, 9am-11am
📍 Where: All Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream Scoop Shops and participating Counters 
💰 50% of sales during breakfast will be donated to @gktwvillage 
🍦 “Eat Ice Cream For Breakfast Day” was created in 2013 in honor of Malia Grace, by her mom and aunt after she lost her battle with cancer in 2010. Malia Grace loved ice cream and her family wanted to commemorate her birthday, 2/18, in a way that would be fitting for her. During her wish trip at Give Kids The World, she had the opportunity to eat ice cream for breakfast and it was a highlight of the family’s experience. 
🌎 Give Kids The World Village is an 89-acre, whimsical nonprofit in Central Florida that provides critically ill children and their families with magical week-long wish vacations at no cost. Every wish family is treated to accommodations, transportation, donated theme park tickets, all meals and snacks, nightly entertainment, and more. Since 1986, Give Kids The World has welcomed more than 182,000 families from all 50 states and 76 countries.
Stop by Kelly’s and pick up these awesome flavors! But, regardless of where you are, Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast in honor of Malia, and raise awareness for those who battle childhood cancer. 💛
#GoEpicOrlando #eaticecreamforbreakfastday #kellyshomemadeicecream #kellysicecream #orlandoicecream
Happy Valentine’s Day! ♥️ Add a little fire Happy Valentine’s Day! ♥️ Add a little fire & passion to your life, head to @gideonsbakehouse for their Eternal Flame Cookie & Cake. They are 🔥in the best way!
🍰 Eternal Flame Cake is a 3-Layer Double Frosted Chocolate work of art! Red Cherry Buttercream layers and Chocolate Fudge Buttercream mixed with a bit of that Eternal Flame spice on the outer layer. Not too spicy and absolutely decadent! Pair it with a nice bold red wine!
🍪 Eternal Flame Chocolate Cookie packs a nice kick laced with house-made Ancho, Cayenne, and Cinnamon Spice Mix, infused with a magical essence of cherry and topped with Chocolate Covered Cherries. 
❤️ For a limited time, a special version of the Eternal Flame cookie without the spice mix is available too! (Check Gideon’s IG for details)
📍 Available only in February at Gideon’s in East End Market & Disney Springs
Go celebrate with the best cookies and cakes on the planet!
#MakeSomedayHappen #GoEpicOrlando #GideonsBakehouse #DisneySprings #ValentinesDayTreat
For The Love of Chocolate… stop by @peterbrookew For The Love of Chocolate… stop by @peterbrookewp and pick up the best treats for your sweetie and besties 💕
A few of my favorites: 
🍓 Chocolate Covered Strawberries (require advanced order)
❤️ “Jami Choo’s” Chocolate Shoes
💋 Assorted Truffles (loved the red lips!)
♥️ Chocolate Covered Popcorn! 
💖 Baskets with a variety of treats! (Don’t miss the Chocolate Covered Oreos, Cat Tails & Cookies)
☎️ Call the shop to reserve a basket for quick pick up at (407) 644-3200. They’re open regular hours today & 7AM -11:15PM on Valentine’s Day!
🍓 Thank you to Peterbrooke’s creative Cupid chocolatiers for these gorgeous berries! 
#GoEpicOrlando #PeterbrookeWP #winterparkfl
Bon jour! Bon soir, enchante! 💕 The perfect way Bon jour! Bon soir, enchante! 💕 The perfect way to celebrate Galentine’s Day & Valentine’s Day is with the best French pastries in Orlando! 
Thank you @chefstephsteph for these epic @choulalapastries 💕
Pre-order and pick up at either Choulala Park Avenue and 436 location! You’re going to want to get all of this! 
VALENTINE’S DAY DESSERT BOX!
Chef Steph created an epic gourmet assortment of Valentine’s Day delights perfect to share:
💋 (1) Lychee Rose French Kiss Entremet
♥️ (2) Conversation Heart Vanilla Macarons
💝 (2) Crème Brûlée Choux Cream Puffs!
“I LOVE CHOU” BOX includes:
❤️ Passion Fruit, Raspberry & Crème Brûlée Choux Cream Puffs
♥️ Red Velvet, Lavender & Conversation Heart Macaron
❤️ Strawberry Eclair
I also picked up these gorgeous heart shaped entremets:
💜 Exotique: Passion Fruit & Coconut 
💖 Sweeties: Strawberry & Chocolate Brownie
Go enjoy the sweetest Galentine’s & Valentine’s Day #MakeSomedayHappen 
📍Choulala Park Avenue is open regular hours Saturday & Sunday, closed Mon, but will open special hours on V-Day Tuesday 11a-8p.
📍Choulala 436 open regular hours including 10-5pm V- Day
(Hosted) #GoEpicOrlando #BlissfulBite #ChoulalaPastries #Galentines #ValentinesTreats
It’s #NationalPizzaDay but all I’m thinking ab It’s #NationalPizzaDay but all I’m thinking about is Hot Garlic Knots from @official_pizza_bruno 
Have you tried these?  They are a #MustEat in Orlando!
Look for the lit “Hot Knots Now!” sign! 🔥 And, when you think there isn’t enough garlic... there’s more! 🧄 🍕 
Go get some!
#GoEpicOrlando #OrlandoFoodie #MakeSomedayHappen
💜 Feeling the lavender haze... One of my favori 💜 Feeling the lavender haze... One of my favorite foodie experiences of 2022 was dining at Salt & The Cellar by Michelin Chef Akira Back and spending the night at the new @ettehotel - a gorgeous boutique hotel with impeccable attention to detail! I even got to meet @chefakiraback 
So excited I’m going back tonight to check out their new Lipa Rooftop Bar & Restaurant and have reservations for Afternoon Tea next month! 
Add a visit to ette hotel to your Foodie Bucket List for 2023! 
A few favorites from my last visit:
🍸 Fantastic Zero-Proof Cocktails by @jarldevries: It’s Dry January all year long! Featured first is The Kraken, a gorgeous purple cocktail made with Butterfly Pea Flower Tea & Champagne Vinegar
✨ Toro Tartare: A gorgeous board with fatty tuna and accompaniments
✨ Akira Back Tuna Pizza: his famous dish is a Must Eat! 
✨ Spinach Oshitashi Salad: the most gorgeous salad I’ve ever seen! 
✨ NY Strip with Wasabi Kizami Butter, Chimichurri Sauce, & choice of gourmet salts. Amazing! Loved that Espresso salt
✨ Miso Black Cod, yuzu air, pickled cauliflower 
✨ Togarashi Fries & Kimchi Brussels
✨ Dessert: Yuzu Curd and Chocolate in a Cup
☕️ “Where The Cloud Ends” Zero-Proof espresso martini with Yuzu Tonic, Lemon Cordial, Espresso, 0% Coffee Liquor
💜 The lobby decor with lavender and green touches was dreamy.
🧺 They have a Laundry Museum! 
📕 The Book Room features incredible books. The giant picture book requires gloves to review as it is one of a few in the world! 
The hotel is focused on wellness and offers Wellness Suites completely equipped with a full gym! 
Make plans to dine at @saltandthecellarbyakiraback and stay at @ettehotel and GO #MakeSomedayHappen
(Hosted) #GoEpicOrlando #ettehotel #saltandthecellarbyakiraback #experiencekissimmee #LoveOrlando
Don’t let the casual vibe at @jujubysusuru fool Don’t let the casual vibe at @jujubysusuru fool you. The Kappo Bar Omakase experience with Chef Lewis Lin is out of this world (& Michelin-worthy!)
“irasshaimase / come in!” is what you hear first upon entering this revamped Pizza Hut building off Colonial Drive. Everyone is welcome at Juju, one of Orlando’s newest restaurants and one that belongs on every #OrlandoFoodie bucket list! 
I was invited to experience their Kappo Bar and it checked all the boxes for a truly amazing #MakeSomedayHappen experience.
The retro Japanese izakaya-style restaurant serves up a 10-course menu at the bar and a more casual a la carte menu in the dining room. 
Omakase menu changes regularly but always features the five primary cooking techniques (grilling, steaming, frying, simmering, and raw) using local and imported ingredients, in-house dry-aged fish, and binchotan charcoal-fired dishes. Everything is prepared right in front of you for an immersive experience.
And, Don’t miss the fun cocktails! I loved “That Old Pizza Hut” was like an orange creamsicle with Suntory Toki Whiskey served in a Pizza Hut cup! 
Make reservations and go check this Orlando restaurant off your bucket list.
Thank you Chef Lewis and Mai for your outstanding hospitality. I’ll be coming back soon!
(Hosted) #GoEpicOrlando #LoveOrlando #omakase
Hello 2023! Why start the year on a diet? My new y Hello 2023! Why start the year on a diet? My new year’s resolution is to focus on self-care.  Eating healthy and exercising, sure. But also treating myself to more @gideonsbakehouse cookies, cakes & cold brews. Who’s with me? What will you treat yourself with this year?
You want something. Go Get It. Period!
This was my last purchase of 12/31/22... I wanted to start 2023 on a sweet note!
What if my 2023 resolution is to visit Gideon’s every month for their awesome limited-edition treats? 
I think that’s a resolution I can keep!  January’s Butterscotch flavors sound to die for.
Did you hear? The epic Banana Bread Chocolate Chip cookie is now part of the permanent lineup. While the Coffee Cake is my all-time favorite, this one is in the top 3! And, the original Peanut Butter Cold Brew is a must pairing.
What resolution will you set today? Go #MakeSomedayHappen 🎉 Happy New Year everyone!
#GoEpicOrlando #2023resolutions #GideonsBakehouse #DisneySprings
Happy New Year 2023! 🎉 We had a fun and very ch Happy New Year 2023! 🎉 We had a fun and very chill night at @disneysprings. How about you?
I love Progressive Dining and Disney Springs has plenty of options. We just get a spot at the bar and order a drink and a fun bite. Then move on to the next spot. So easy! No reservations required! 
🦀 1st Stop: @paddlefishorl 
Steak Skewers
Crab Topped Fries 
Larceny Old Fashioned 
Capt Handsome - Cathead Vodka & Raspberry 
Mayan Empress - Santa Teresa Añejo Rum, pineapple
🍰 2nd Stop: @homecominfl 
Espresso Martini 
Carrot Cake 
☘️ 3rd Stop: @raglanroadpub 
Great entertainment! 
@guinnessus 
Great Irish Hooley Cocktail - so refreshing with strawberries & Prosecco 
🍪 Not pictured: we managed a stop at @gideonsbakehouse to pick up treats to start the new year!!! (They had a 2 second brief moment with no line around 11pm! I could not resist! I picked up a Banana Bread Chocolate Chip cookie which is now part of the year-round line up! I also got a slice of Golden Oreo cake and a PB Cold Brew to enjoy today! Starting 2023 off right… and not a diet 😂
We went early, had a great time and got home in time to watch the ball drop!!! 🎉
Wishing you all happiness and lots of delicious treats in 2023! 
#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #DisneySprings
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