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How to Avoid Holiday Kitchen Nightmares with Whole Foods Market

By Christina Thomas Leave a Comment

9 Ways Whole Foods Market Makes Holiday Entertaining Easy


How to Avoid Holiday Kitchen Nightmares with Whole Foods Market and GoEpicurista.com

Have you lived to tell the tale of your holiday kitchen nightmares? You know the ones – you forgot to take the gizzard bag out of the turkey cavity before putting it in the oven, the turkey is raw in the center, you accidentally used salt instead of sugar in your pumpkin pie recipe, you gave up and ended up ordering pizza? All true, first-hand accounts.

My Thanksgiving 1997 holiday nightmare took place in my sister Carolyn’s small Orlando apartment, and even smaller kitchen. The stars of the show: a massive frozen bird that would not thaw out, and an oven breathing its last, agonizing, slow breath. The tale ended with both of us exhausted, and dinner served after 10pm. Food reached the table at the same time as our sister’s dinner in Oregon. We shared the feast over the phone, despite the three-hour time difference.

Now, I follow this rule for thawing my Thanksgiving turkey:

Place the turkey in the refrigerator on Sunday and thaw for 4 days. Did you know a turkey takes 1 day per 4 lbs to thaw and can keep refrigerated for 4 days after thawing?”

Oh, and don’t forget to check your oven. Make sure it’s still alive – and turned on! (yeah, that happened too!)

Holiday kitchen nightmares, I have so many stories.

How about the time a last minute addition of 6 caused a scramble to my meticulously planned, plated 5-course Christmas Eve dinner for 12? It was the last time I prepared a plated menu with individual Cornish hens, oranges stuffed with twice baked sweet potatoes and mini apple tarts. Instead of midnight mass we had midnight dinner! Hey, it was ‘Noche Buena’ after all! Fun times.

Lesson Learned: Always plan buffet meals with no assigned seating and no individually plated dishes. During the holidays, you never know who will show up. Isn’t it better to have an open door to welcome stragglers?

Tis’ the Season. The more the merrier.

Preparing a lavish holiday meal, from scratch, is one of my favorite parts of the season.

Sharing great food with family and friends is always special, regardless of what you serve.

Yet, there is something extra special about having a table full of dishes you only enjoy once a year. How often do you eat roasted turkey, green beans casserole, yams topped with marshmallows and pumpkin pies?

I love how the house smells from all the autumn spices, and seeing the smiles, and sometimes the look of surprise, around the table as they bite into my juicy turkey, full of flavor from my 24-ingredient marinade, is priceless. I love to cook but I rarely have the time or inclination to do so, especially when a meal like this takes all day to prepare.

How to Avoid Holiday Kitchen Nightmares with Whole Foods Market and GoEpicurista.com

What will your holiday table look like?

I admire those home cooks who have their meal prep down to a science and start getting ready weeks in advance. I am not one of them. I’m often rushing through the grocery store the day before and preparing everything the day of. I laugh thinking about my holiday kitchen nightmares over the years. Now, I look for ways to avoid them.

Easy Entertaining and letting others do part or all of the cooking so you can truly enjoy the best part of the season, spending time with family and friends, is the best way to go.

I attended a preview of Whole Foods Market Orlando holiday dishes and I must admit, it was quite a revelation. One that definitely had me rethinking my holiday meal plans. I’ve always been hesitant about ordering dishes from a store during the holidays because they don’t usually taste homemade, and tend to have too many additives and preservatives. I realized I don’t have to work so hard to put on a great feast with foods that taste as good as homemade, made with ingredients that are good for you. Whole Foods Market is making entertaining easy.

Most surprising was learning how cost effective their menus are. The common perception of Whole Foods Market being a place where you’ll easily spend a whole paycheck was challenged. Take a look at their holiday menus and pricing here. If you consider the fact most ingredients are organic or sustainably grown, the time you will be saving, the stress reduction, and the wow factor, it’s money well spent.

I am still planning to prepare my holiday turkey and mom’s yams with toasted marshmallows. Those are traditions. However, everything else this year is coming from local shops like Whole Foods Market. I will put it all in my pretty platters and serving bowls, however, I’m certain the relaxed, on-time dinner will give away my secret, and that’s ok.

How to Avoid Holiday Kitchen Nightmares with Whole Foods Market and GoEpicurista.com

Get ready for this amazing holiday meal!

Here’s how Whole Foods Market can help you make holiday entertaining easy and avoid holiday kitchen nightmares:

1. Cheeses


A cheese board is perfect for Easy Entertaining. It looks fancy and all you have to do is buy a few different types, place on a board and serve with your favorite crusty breads and crackers. Add some nuts, dried fruits and grapes, and voila! It’s a party. Whole Foods Market’s certified cheese professionals will help you select the best cheese assortment for your table or you can order an American Artisan Platter or European Platter ready to go.

This gorgeous Cranberry Walnut & Fig Stuffed Brie was a favorite at the tasting. It will definitely be making an appearance at my holiday table this year.

How to Avoid Holiday Kitchen Nightmares with Whole Foods Market and GoEpicurista.com

WFM Orlando Cranberry Walnut & Fig Stuffed Brie

The Persille du Beaujolais blue cheese with honeycomb was a winner. Creamy, nutty with the subtle pungency you expect. It tasted amazing in combination with the slow cooked short ribs.

How to Avoid Holiday Kitchen Nightmares with Whole Foods Market and GoEpicurista.com

WFM Orlando Persille du Beaujolais

2. Appetizers


A few appetizer platters get the party started while you put the final touches on dinner. Take your pick: vegetable crudité, shrimp cocktail, Mediterranean antipasto, smoked seafood dip, smoked salmon, and charcuterie platters will keep everyone’s hunger at bay and encourage chatting in the living room. They also make great snacks while watching the football games.

How to Avoid Holiday Kitchen Nightmares with Whole Foods Market and GoEpicurista.com

WFM Orlando St. James Smoked Salmon Platter

3. Caviar


Caviar spread over little blini topped with crème fraiche will elevate any celebration. I had never sampled so many varieties of caviar side by side, which made it easy to pick my favorites. Sasanian Caviar offers a high quality collection of over 20 different ones to choose from. I liked the Smoked Trout which had a nice hint of hickory with delicate pearls, the Truffle Pearl had a gorgeous Italian truffle taste, and the Imperial was simply elegant, without being overpowering. Pair it with a glass of sparkling wine and it’s instant holiday cheer.

How to Avoid Holiday Kitchen Nightmares with Whole Foods Market and GoEpicurista.com

A variety of Sasanian Caviar on Blini with Creme Fraiche

4. Turkeys & Roasts


The turkey is the toughest component of the holiday meal. You must thaw it properly (no one wants the gift of food poisoning), season it well (I like injecting the marinade and brining for 24 hours), and of course roasting it for the right amount of time and at the right temperature is key. Make a mistake and it’s quite easy to end up with dry turkey meat you need to drown in gravy to take a bite. Short cuts may reduce preparation time but not necessarily reduce stress.

I will never forget Thanksgiving 2008. It was the first and last holiday we attempted to fry a turkey to cut down on prep time, and ended up with a completely charred bird. It looked like a large piece of coal. At least we didn’t burn the house down. According to the All-State commercial on TV, it’s a common holiday nightmare.

At Whole Foods Market, you can order turkeys raised for the season, with no added growth hormones, no animal by-products in the feed and no antibiotics. They offer a variety including organic, kosher, fresh brined and even a turducken! You can roast yourself or order fully cooked. All orders must be placed by Sunday prior to Thanksgiving.

How to Avoid Holiday Kitchen Nightmares with Whole Foods Market and GoEpicurista.com

WFM Orlando Roasted Turkey

The 72-Hour Beef Boneless Short Ribs were full of flavor and fall-off-the-bone tender. What hearty dish for your Christmas dinner.

How to Avoid Holiday Kitchen Nightmares with Whole Foods Market and GoEpicurista.com

WFM Orlando Boneless Short Ribs

Cornish Hens are a nice turkey alternative for a smaller dinner party.

How to Avoid Holiday Kitchen Nightmares with Whole Foods Market and GoEpicurista.com

WFM Orlando Cornish Hens

5. Salads & Side Dishes


We can’t have a holiday meal without my mom’s glazed yams topped with toasted marshmallows or wild rice with raisins and pecans. However, you can save time and effort by supplementing with dishes which are not traditional or have sentimental value. I plan to supplement my holiday dinner with other side dishes like these:

Kale & Brussels Sprouts Salad had a nice tangy dressing, similar to a lightly dressed Caesar salad. Kale is not easy to prepare and keep the right crunchy, yet soft texture without the bitterness. This one was done just right and guaranteed to be better than a plain green salad, which no one ever eats.

How to Avoid Holiday Kitchen Nightmares with Whole Foods Market and GoEpicurista.com

WFM Orlando Kale & Brussels Sprouts

Harvest Roasted Root Vegetables were tender and well seasoned. Just thinking about peeling and cutting all these vegetables makes me cringe. $17.99 for 2lbs is worth it.

How to Avoid Holiday Kitchen Nightmares with Whole Foods Market and GoEpicurista.com

WFM Roasted Root Vegetables

Cinnamon Dusted Butternut Squash with Candied Pecans & Cranberries has Autumn written all over it. Just looking at this picture makes me hungry. It tasted just like homemade with a touch of gourmet.

How to Avoid Holiday Kitchen Nightmares with Whole Foods Market and GoEpicurista.com

WFM Orlando Harvest Root Vegetables

Whole Foods Market classic side dishes include mac n’ cheese, creamy mashed potatoes, Southern green bean casserole, and cornbread stuffing with rosemary & chestnuts. You can up the gourmet factor with black truffle macaroni & cheese, Parmigiano tarragon truffled cauliflower, and butternut squash risotto. All available to order in 2 lbs packages. They are ready to go and all you do is reheat. Many of these dishes are vegan or vegetarian.

If you would like to offer a vegan option, the Vegan Field Roast en Croute is a good option.

How to Avoid Holiday Kitchen Nightmares with Whole Foods Market and GoEpicurista.com

WFM Orlando Vegan Field Roast en Croute

The Hanukkah Menu includes kosher turkeys, beef brisket, farm raised salmon, duck a l’orange and potato latkes. All items require a minimum of 48 hours to process. view a full Hanukkah menu online.

How to Avoid Holiday Kitchen Nightmares with Whole Foods Market and GoEpicurista.com

WFM Orlando Latkes with apple sauce and sour cream

6. Desserts & Breads


Holiday pies are a must but who has time to bake? Decadent chocolate pecan, apple or traditional pumpkin spice are all winners. How about changing it up with a rich creamy pumpkin cheesecake?

How to Avoid Holiday Kitchen Nightmares with Whole Foods Market and GoEpicurista.com

WFM Orlando Pumpkin Cheesecake

This is not your usual fruit cake. It was moist with a chewy, dense texture. You may go for seconds and probably won’t mind if you get it as a gift.

How to Avoid Holiday Kitchen Nightmares with Whole Foods Market and GoEpicurista.com

WFM Orlando Fruit Cake

Cranberry Walnut Hearth Bread and Stollen are a great alternative to dinner rolls. They also make for great french toast the next morning.

How to Avoid Holiday Kitchen Nightmares with Whole Foods Market and GoEpicurista.com

WFM Orlando Fresh Baked Breads

7. Wines


Every party needs a nice selection of wines but sometimes selecting ones that will appeal to all guests and complement the variety of foods being served is not easy. Whole Foods Market has a large selection of wines from around the world in every price point. We sampled a sparkling wine, a white and a red which are on their Top 10 Holiday Wines list and they were all very enjoyable and easy to drink. You can’t go wrong with this selection:

    ^ Sparkling: Madame Liberte Brut Domaine Richel was bright and crisp with baked apple flavors. Bubbles always make any event feel more festive and this one goes well with the entire holiday meal, but especially with your appetizers.

    ^ White: Vin de Savio Apremont was citrusy with bright minerality. This crisp French white goes great with seafood.

    ^ Red: Joel Gott Grenache with notes of ripe blackberry and blueberry and scents of vanilla. I loved the elegance and roundness of this wine. It will please the wine connoisseur but not scare away the wine newbie.

How to Avoid Holiday Kitchen Nightmares with Whole Foods Market and GoEpicurista.com

WFM Orlando Holiday Wines

8. Florals


The easiest way to dress up your table is with fresh flowers. Whole Foods Market offer a variety of arrangements starting at $15. You can select one of their standard arrangements or have one custom made.

How to Avoid Holiday Kitchen Nightmares with Whole Foods Market and GoEpicurista.com

WFM Orlando Flowers

9. Gifts


This was the most surprising find of all. Whole Foods Market has a variety of products perfect for stocking stuffers and hostess gifts. Many are sourced with environmental impact in mind. Mineral Fusion nail polish and make-up kits, bath essentials and delicious smelling soaps and lotions.

How to Avoid Holiday Kitchen Nightmares with Whole Foods Market and GoEpicurista.com

Assorted Gifts from WFM Orlando

To view the complete Whole Foods Market holiday menu and gift guide and to place your order, visit Shop.WFM.com

For more options on great shops to order your Thanksgiving To Go, check out this list. And if you prefer to leave the cooking AND the cleaning to the professionals, Orlando Restaurants and Hotels offer some fantastic holiday meals. Check out these options for Thanksgiving and Christmas.

How will you avoid your own holiday kitchen nightmares? As cherished as all these memories of holidays past are for me, I am not inclined to repeat them. Do you have any good tips to make holiday entertaining easy? Please share in the comments below.

Oh, and I would love to hear about your holiday kitchen nightmares. Do you have a good story? Please do tell.

Wherever you are this holiday season, I hope you spend it sharing great food and wine with family and friends.

Cheers!

GO Epicurista

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Filed Under: Easy Entertaining Recipes Tagged With: Christmas, Easy Entertaining, Holiday Party, Holidays in Orlando, Thanksgiving, Whole Foods Market

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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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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
And with that… 2022 comes to an end. 🎉 What a And with that… 2022 comes to an end. 🎉 What a delicious year it has been! 
⭐️ Orlando got @michelinguide recognition and some amazing new restaurants. I haven’t tried them all so I have a great list to check off in 2023, but these made my 2022 favorite list: 
@fsorlando Capa Steakhouse got a Michelin Star!
@ettehotel @saltandthecellarbyakiraback fabulous vibe, food & zero proof cocktails 
@doshiorlando Must Eat Korean fine dining! 
@edoboy Orlando’s first standing sushi bar! 
@kaya.orlando Phenomenal Filipino fine dining! 
@avamediterraegean best Winter Park vibe! 
@fourflamingosorl - so good I went 3 times! (bonus I got to meet @richardblais 🎉)
✈️ I visited my home state of Oregon a few times and enjoyed my Portland favorites as well as discovered new ones! 
@hubers.portland.or best Spanish Coffee
@bluestardonuts best bougie donuts 
@pipsoriginal best mini donuts & chai
@havl_restaurant  amazing noodle soups 
Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm 
🚢 Went on my first @norwegiancruiseline Prima inaugural cruise with @thetravelbite & had fantastic bites! The @Moet Bar at the private island was awesome! 🥂
💫 Orlando favorites continued to shine bright! 
☘️ @raglanroadpub Hooley & Mighty Irish Festivals always fun!!
🍸 @thecourtesy reopened in Winter Park with @bar.swine - superb!😘 
🍽️ @walforforlando @signiabonnetcreek Epicurious Event featuring La Luce, Bull & Bear, Zeta Asia (great foodie staycation) 
🍴@cariberoyaleorlando revamped The Venetian Chop House
🍾 @ritzcarltonorlando & @jwmorlando epic Michelin Curated Weekend (great foodie staycation) 
🍷 @viniawinekitchen continued their popular Fabio’s Table 
🍬 @choulalapastries Twix Bar & seasonal treats & flights!
🍖 @smokemademeats awesome BBQ pop-ups (if you haven’t tried Tyler’s brisket you’re missing out!)
🍪 @gideonsbakehouse best cookies, cakes & cold brew! 
🍊 Loved @disneysprings Flavors of Florida 
🍩 @everglazed_fl Donuts & Chicken Sandwich 
🎄 @learnlakenona Oh, What Fun Holiday Festival! 
This is only but a short glimpse I could fit in 22 seconds! I’m so grateful for all the wonderful experiences. Cheers to 2022! 
Happy New Year! 🥂
Let’s go #MakeSomedayHappen in 2023! 
#GoEpicOrlando #2022recap
2022 in Review: Favorite New Restaurant @kaya.orla 2022 in Review: Favorite New Restaurant @kaya.orlando 
So many wonderful restaurants opened in Orlando this year that it’s tough to pick a favorite. 
Why Kaya? Because it felt like coming home to family. (When your family includes a Michelin-star chef!) 😉
The food was exceptional & the service was the epitome of warm hospitality.
Orlando’s first Filipino Casual Fine Dining. 
The creation of Chef Lordfer Lalicon and GM Jamilyn Salonga Bailey (previously of Michelin-Star Kadence) 
🍽️ 5-Wave Tasting Menu highlights primarily local produce & seafood in addition to select meats. (Ooh that pork belly!) 
Full of flavor and so full of surprises, each course (wave) left us saying “that was my favorite!” - until the next dish arrives and you’re wowed all over again!
The setting feels like home - family pictures and little touches, including a piano from previous tenants Dandelion Cafe as a nod to the community Kaya celebrates.
I was invited to Friends and Family preview and already have reservations to return. I need that amazing garlic rice again!
4 Wave menu we sampled:
🥄 amuse-bouche | BURONG ISDA
hakurei turnip, lionfish
🥄 first wave | KINILAW
kombujime Key West flounder, radish
🥄 second wave | PANCIT
sotanghon mung bean noodles stir fried in mushroom jus, red pepper poached egg
third wave | KANIN at ULAM
🥄 GARLIC RICE tamaki gold short grain rice, garlic chips, garlic oil 🤯 
🥄 ADOBONG KABUTE lion’s mane + oyster mushrooms
🥄 GINATAAN NA HIPON Key West pink shrimp, crab fat + coconut milk broth
🥄 HUMBA Berkshire pork belly, brown butter seminole squash puree, sweet potato greens
fourth wave | MATAMIS
🥄 UBE FLAN egg yolk flan, toasted coconut, citrus
🥄SUMAN MALAGKIT glutinous rice cake in banana leaves, coconut caramel
🥄MANGO ICE CREAM BY SAMPAGUITA & latik URARO COOKIE arrowroot cookie
🥂 Don’t miss the cocktails & wine pairings!
➡️ Add Kaya to your list!  Reservations required
#MakeSomedayHappen
My prediction is Chef Lo will be winning another Michelin Star at Kaya! 
Thank you Lo, Jami & team! You rock! (that dance was perfect! 😜)
#GoEpicOrlando
2022 in Review - Favorite Revamp of a Classic: T 2022 in Review - Favorite Revamp of a Classic: 
The Venetian Chop House Lobster Bisque @cariberoyaleorlando
Longtime fans of The Venetian Chop House, Caribe Royale Orlando’s on-property fine-dining restaurant, can rest assured that the reimagined menu of this classic Orlando restaurant still includes their fantastic Lobster Bisque. 
It’s been on the menu for over 15 years! I loved the creamy, decadent soup served with chunks of lobster meat, topped with a lattice puff pastry dome for a more elevated and stunning presentation at the table.
The menu by Chef David Hackett is a journey through fine Italian Steakhouse cuisine. You can enjoy classic steakhouse specialties (Hungry for a 36 oz Tomahawk?) together with finer dining Italian entrees such as an enormous Chicken Parmigiana, perfectly crusted and crispy and pasta dishes beautifully garnished such as the Carbonara topped with ricotta cream and delicate herb olive oil pearls.
Of course, you must start the evening with craft cocktails at their new Intimate Bar and end with another tableside showstopper, the Ultimate Chocolate Sphere dessert!
>> If you want to read more about the new menu, @tastecooksip and I wrote a guest post for the resort’s website: “The Must Try Guide To The New Venetian Chop House Menu”
Read it here (link in stories): https://www.cariberoyale.com/blog/must-try-guide-to-the-new-venetian-chop-house-menu
>> Looking for New Year’s Eve Plans?  The Venetian Chop House will offer a celebratory 6-course chef-driven prix-fixe menu including an amuse-bouche, choice of soup (that gorgeous Lobster Bisque!) and salad, choice of entrée — wagyu beef tenderloin, porchetta or pesto baked king salmon — plus a few delicious accompaniments, and choice of delicate desserts. $130pp++ / Reservations: 407-238-8060
#MakeSomedayHappen
#GoEpicOrlando #CaribeRoyaleOrlando #2022Review
2022 Review: Best Sunset - Caribbean Cruise / Atla 2022 Review: Best Sunset - Caribbean Cruise / Atlantic Ocean onboard @norwegiancruiseline Prima
🌅 Sunsets at sea are my absolute favorite! How about you?
One of my favorite travel experiences of 2022 was the #NorwegianPrima inaugural sailing with @thetravelbite 
It was a short 3 days but I loved the new ship design, the food and all the amenities. I’m definitely planning another NCL cruise in 2023! 
#MakeSomedayHappen 
#GoEpicCruise #caribbeancruise #EpicSunset #norwegiancruiseline
2022 Review: The Best View in Orlando + The Best G 2022 Review: The Best View in Orlando + The Best Gin Tonic in Orlando = Capa at @fsorlando 
📍 The view from the 17th floor of Four Seasons Orlando Resort, Michelin star Capa Steakhouse is spectacular! You can see the Walt Disney World Resort, epic sunsets & fireworks. 
🍸 For GT fans in Orlando, don’t miss the Capa GinTonic made with Coarunn Gin & Fever Tree Mediterranean Tonic. It’s colorful garnishes: Gala Apple, Juniper, Key Lime, & Botanicals take it next level! 
Cheers to 2022 and an even better 2023! 🥂
#MakeSomedayHappen 
#GoEpicOrlando #FSTaste #FiveDiamondOrlando #LoveOrlando #MichelinGuideFL
“Ooooh I like it!” - Merry Xmas! I hope you go “Ooooh I like it!” - Merry Xmas! I hope you got to unwrap delicious treats today, and more importantly that you got to share a special time with loved ones.
I got to enjoy my favorite local-made cookies from @GideonsBakehouse 
In order of appearance:
🍪 The Original Chocolate Chip
🍪 December special: Kris Kringle White Chocolate Coffee Bean - my favorite!
🍪 Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
🍪 December special: Krampus Dark Chocolate Mint
🍰 December special: Krampus Snack Cake - Chocolate Cake with Andes Mint Buttercream
>> Hurry if you want to try the December limited-time flavors! They are all so yummy!
I missed my all-time favorite coffee cake cookie so I may have to go back this week! LOL!
Happy Holidays! 
Gideon’s is located at @disneysprings and @eastendmkt
#MakeSomedayHappen #GoEpicOrlando #GideonsBakehouse #DisneySprings
“Merry Christmas Everybody!”🎄 We spent a b “Merry Christmas Everybody!”🎄
We spent a beautifully chilly and sunny Christmas Eve morning at @disneysprings. So fun & deliciously festive! (Surprisingly not too crowded but we were there early)
Here’s all we did & ate! 
1) Breakfast at @everglazed_fl - 
🍩 Holiday Lights Glazed Donut (to match my Xmas turtleneck!) 
🐓 Funky Chicken BBQ sandwich - my favorite! 
2) Put our name on the Virtual Queue at @gideonsbakehouse (90 min quoted, got text to return at 60 min, waited in actual queue 15 min!) The staff at Gideon’s is 💯 
3) Relaxed & got warm at @Starbucks (while we waited for Gideon’s)
☕️ Caramel Macchiato 
4) Gideon’s Bakehouse: picked up treats for Xmas dinner
🍪 December specials: Kris Kringle White Chocolate Coffee Bean, Krampus Dark Chocolate Mint, Chocolate Chip Banana Bread, Coffee Cake
🍰 Krampus Snack Cakes
☕️ Peanut Butter Cold Brew (the chilly 39F temp didn’t keep me from this favorite!)
🎄 Leisurely stroll around Tree Trail to see all the beautifully decorated themed Xmas trees - loved the Mickey & Minnie tree!
🎁 Window Shopping & Browsed The World Of Disney merchandise shop - lots of last minute Xmas shopping going on! 🤣
After a great morning, I’m home cooking for tonight’s dinner. I hope you’ve made the best of this arctic chilly day. Feely very grateful for the blessings we enjoy. 
Happy Christmas! 🎄 
#MakeSomedayHappen #GoEpicOrlando #GoEpicDisney #DisneySprings
This audio cracked me up! 🤣 But it seriously re This audio cracked me up! 🤣 But it seriously reminded me of all the times I take video over and over (and over) again - Mostly because I’m making weird faces or I don’t like the angle, or I feel like I look fat or… you name it! 🫣 
There are a lot more fails than wins when you scroll my camera roll, and which never make it to the curated IG feed. (In this video, I didn’t like how I was chewing because the cookie was super gooey so it stuck to my teeth!🤣)
We’re so often reminded, nothing is as perfect as it seems on social media, but it bears repeating. You never know what’s going on behind the scenes. Please spread kindness, compassion, and joy with everyone you see - online and IRL 💕
While I will never share something on my feed I don’t wholeheartedly recommend, I must share that I’m not always having ALL the “fun” you see. It’s work to get video and photos and make sure you get everything there is to share. To think of creative posts ideas and offer something unique and different. No complaints, because I do love it, but it’s still work. It’s work to edit photos & videos, find the right audio, research, write the caption and post at the right time. Creating content that provides value is a full time job. Many creators burn out, I’ve been there. We often ask ourselves why we do it.
If you’ve read this far, THANK YOU! I appreciate you. With dwindling views and algorithm changes, IG is not as fun as it once was. I’ve enjoyed nearly 9 years of sharing my favorite bucket list restaurants & events in Orlando and around the world with you. And I hope to continue to bring you a little bit of inspiration to go #MakeSomedayHappen one delicious bite, sip and trip at a time in the new year! 💕 
Oh BTW, commenting, saving & sharing posts you like is always so appreciated. It’s the encouragement we as creators need to continue to do what we do. 💕
🎄Wishing you a warm, joyful and delicious holiday! 
📍 Check out @learnlakenona Oh, What Fun! Holiday Festival. It is free and fun for everyone! And that Grinch Cookie paired with Hot Chocolate spiked with Bailey’s was indeed a delicious treat!! (See my previous post for details) 
#GoEpicOrlando #HolidaysinOrlando
OH, WHAT FUN! We spent a fun holiday themed evenin OH, WHAT FUN! We spent a fun holiday themed evening in Lake Nona last night! Their Holiday Festival is in full swing and fun for the entire family! 
Oh, What Fun! makes the holidays magical, featuring: 
🎄 Beautiful lights & holiday decorations
🎁 Holiday Market featuring local vendors & artisans for one-of-a-kind gifts
❄️ Nightly Snowfalls
📷 Photo Ops
🎄 Live entertainment including a holiday cirque show & professional carolers 
🎅 Santa’s Cottage (reservations required) 
🎶 Live Music at Boxi Park & Town Center including the Hollywood Holidays Band
🍴 Lots of Dining Options: Great pizza, wings & craft beer at @parkpizzalakenona, to fancy small plates at @chromalakenona a variety of foods at @boxiparklakenona - we had Lobster Fries & Fried Shrimp! 
🍪 Holiday Cookies, Treats & Beverages! I loved the “Grinch” chocolate mint chip cookie paired with Hot Chocolate & Bailey’s 
🌊 @lakenonawavehotel Fa La La Bar featuring holiday cocktails 
Events this weekend: 
🐩 pet parade & costume contest (Saturday), 
🎄Christmas Creatures live animal encounter (Sunday),
🕎 Hannukah Celebration (Sunday Evening)
📍 Lake Nona Town Center
🗓️ Thursday - Sunday
🎟️ Admission is free 
For more information, visit @learnlakenona 
#MakeSomedayHappen 
(Media Invite) #GoEpicOrlando #LearnLakeNona
Favorite Sunday Brunch & Coffee spot in Portland, Favorite Sunday Brunch & Coffee spot in Portland, Oregon: @ProudMaryUSA
We’ve been fans of this Aussie cafe since owners Nolan & Shari opened in 2017. Super nice people! 
🥑 I always order the Avo Toast - one of the best anywhere! But on this last visit I felt like trying their new menu and the green shakshuka did not disappoint. So. Much. Flavor!!! 
☕️ Their coffee program is amazing! We ordered one of their deluxe pour overs and it was a process. From the proper grinding of the beans to the filters and the water used, to giving you a card with the story from the grower. It was fun to watch! 
Here’s what we ordered: 
☕️ Flat White 
☕️ Deluxe Pour Over: INDONESIA
4th Place Cup Of Excellence- IJEN LESTARI
Black cherry, grape, cola, & clove
🍳 green shakshuka: harissa labneh, dukkah, two poached eggs, toast + side of hash browns with their epic house hot sauce! Must Eat! 
🍜 noodle bowl: warm soba noodles, fried tofu, tea egg, avocado, green onion, daikon radish, togarashi
📍 2012 NE Alberta St. Portland, Oregon
Add Proud Mary to your #PDX list! 
#MakeSomedayHappen 
#GoEpicPDX #GoEpicOregon #SundayBrunch
Hey Orlando Foodies, a culinary tour of @waldorfor Hey Orlando Foodies, a culinary tour of @waldorforlando & @signiabonnetcreek Bonnet Creek Resort is a Must Do! 
🍽️ Epicurious Sip & Savor event is this Friday December 9 from 7-11 pm, Indulge in a sumptuous showcase of 35 food & beverage tastings inspired by the renowned chefs of Waldorf Astoria Orlando and Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek.
Visit waldorfastoriaorlando.com/epicurious
If you miss this event, simply plan a foodie weekend and let your taste buds lead the way through the fantastic restaurants of this gorgeous resort, including famed Bull & Bear, La Luce, & Zeta Asia
Say Hi to their epic culinary team! 
👨🏼‍🍳 Bernard Fiemeyer, Complex Executive Chef @chefbernard7 
👨🏼‍🍳 Jeremy Gibboney, Executive Sous Chef, Waldorf Astoria Orlando @chefjeremy814 
👨🏼‍🍳 Dannilo Zapatel Herrera, Executive Sous Chef, Signia by Hilton Orlando @dannilosignia 
👨🏼‍🍳 Franck Riflaud, Complex Executive Pastry Chef @chocolatguimauve 
👨🏼‍🍳 Alberto Navarrete Arias, Chef D’Cuisine, La Luce @alberto.navarretearias 
👨🏼‍🍳 Juan Suarez, Chef D’Cuisine, Bull & Bear @chefjoju_su 
👨🏼‍🍳 Jesus Pinto, Chef Tournant, Zeta Asia
@jesuspinto0707 
🥇 Congrats again to Executive Chef Bernard Fiemeyer on receiving the prestigious title of Maître Cuisinier de France. His passion combined with classical French training and a flair for international cooking sets him apart as Orlando’s only Master Chef of France! 🥂
Go #MakeSomedayHappen 
Hosted #GoEpicOrlando #WaldorfOrlando #SigniaBonnetCreek
🎉My favorite fancy donut shop in PDX - @bluesta 🎉My favorite fancy donut shop in PDX - @bluestardonuts - is celebrating its 10th Anniversary! 🎉 I got the chance to meet rockstar Pastry Chef Stephanie Thornton and totally fangirl over her EPIC “Once-in-a-Decade” Donut!  Guaranteed it will blow your mind! 
✨ 18-hour brioche made with vanilla & strawberry butter! 
✨Filled with strawberry jam
✨Dipped in yuzu-strawberry glaze -  the most incredible glacage!
✨Topped with piped mascarpone-vanilla whip, chocolate cocoa nibs, & gold dust! Oh my!
🥂Perfectly paired with a mini bottle of champagne!
It’s only available THIS WEEK as part of their 10th Anniversary celebration!
👉🏼 Pro-Foodie-Travel-Tip: When visiting Portland, Oregon, DO NOT MISS a stop at Blue Star Donuts. These “Donuts for Grown Ups” are the best in town!
🙏 *I’m begging @chefstephaniethornton for an Orlando location someday!  #MakeSomedayHappen 😉 
🎉 Happy Anniversary and Congrats Blue Star Donuts team. Thanks for letting me crash your party! 
#GoEpicPDX #GoEpicOregon #bestdonutsintheworld #BlueStarDonut
Are You Having Any Fun? We sure did on @norwegianc Are You Having Any Fun? We sure did on @norwegiancruiseline newest ship PRIMA!
Best Thing I Ate on #NorwegianPrima - Dessert Edition: 
🍰 Pastel de Tres Leche with Coconut Cream 
🍩 Churros with Dulce de Leche Caramel 
📍 Los Lobos Mexican Restaurant 
@thetravelbite and I were stuffed after our 2nd dinner of the night (🫣) but we had to get dessert so we ordered the Tres Leches Cake to share. I never say no to dessert!
We said we’d only have one bite…
* We finished the whole thing! 🤦🏻‍♀️🤣
Then… wait for it! 
We saw the Churros Tower at the table next to us and couldn’t resist. We did it for the Gram! I could have drank that Dulce de Leche sauce! 
Los Lobos is one of several specialty dining restaurants you can book onboard, and the biggest surprise. Much more than tacos, it was a more elevated experience. One of our favorite dinners onboard. The bonus we got to sit outdoors and dine with the sounds of the ocean. 🌊 
You gotta have fun! Always order two desserts!
#MakeSomedayHappen 
#GoEpicCruise #TasteNorwegian #CruiseNorwegian
Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I wish you a beautifu Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I wish you a beautiful day of sharing great food and wine with family and friends. Grateful for all the little things and most importantly all the wonderful people in my life. 💕
🍁 It’s the unofficial last day of fall! 🍂Enjoy pumpkin everything today…. Tomorrow Christmas Season “officially” begins…🎄
Which camp are you in?
🦃 -🎄”Xmas comes after Thanksgiving” & you’ll set up your Xmas tree this weekend
OR
🎃- 🎄”Xmas after Halloween” & your Xmas tree is already up
I’ve always loved Thanksgiving - a day centered around spending time with loved ones and sharing entirely too much food. So I’m in the “Xmas after Thanksgiving” camp. But if you’re excited for Christmas and want to get 2 months out of all the decorations, I get it if your tree is up already.
Enjoy the season and all the little things that make you happy. Cheers! 🥂
Caffeinated: Morning, Noon & Night - At Sea! ☕️ This coffee lover enjoyed Shaken Espresso in the morning with a great ocean view, Nitro from a Beach Cart and a fantastic sustainable Espresso Martini on @norwegiancruiseline newest ship #NorwegianPrima. The gorgeous ocean views, and sunsets were the most relaxing pairing. 
☕️ Starbucks at Indulge Food Hall was a great spot for breakfast. Full Starbucks menu including our favorite Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso with Oat Milk, you can’t beat the shorter lines than the second location in the atrium & fun swinging chairs on the deck. 
⛱️ Starbucks Cart at NCL private island Stirrup Cay served Nitro Cold Brew all day! 
🥃 Metropolitan Bar’s Café Replay - think an elevated espresso martini - made with Avorza Ultra Premium Organic vodka, Angostura bitters, Frangelico, spent coffee ground cordial, pineapple juice was so inventive. I enjoyed chatting with Clarence, resident mixologist about the full list of sustainable cocktails made from discarded food products.
Are you a coffee fanatic? Which coffee experience would you choose?
☕️ Happy #NationalEspressoDay ☕️
Thank you to my coffee-loving travel buddy @thetravelbite for discovering the short line Starbucks on our first morning! 
Media Hosted #GoEpicCruise #TasteNorwegian #CruiseNorwegian #Espresso #CoffeeLover
Do Not Disturb. Currently dreaming of my next crui Do Not Disturb. Currently dreaming of my next cruise vacation! Do you love cruising?
I had the awesome opportunity to sail #NorwegianPrima on its inaugural sailing from Port of Miami this week and it was fabulous! Thank you @norwegiancruiseline and @thetravelbite 🎉
PRIMA, first in its class, was gorgeous! Loved the modern design, the artwork, the shows, and all the fun spaces to relax and hangout throughout the ship. I was so impressed with the food and beverage program, the new food hall concept, all the options for freestyle dining, and the sustainable cocktails. 
If you’re looking for a wonderful foodie cruise vacation, check out Norwegian Prima. There are some great Black Friday deals happening right now. Book it! 
Nothing better than your first cocktail on deck… the Miami skyline is always gorgeous at sunset. BTW this was one of my favorite cocktails - La Madrina. An Aperol Spritz taken to the next level: Avorza Ultra Premium Organic vodka, Aperol, strawberry and orange oleo, lime juice, fresh lime, ginger beer. Fantastic! 
Go #MakeSomedayHappen 
Hosted #GoEpicCruise #CruiseNorwegian #cruiselife #nclprima
Fun times at @swandolphin Food & Wine Classic! The Fun times at @swandolphin Food & Wine Classic! The annual tasting event was back on the promenade and it was a gorgeous night! The weather was perfect, we had some fun bites from the Disney resort’s restaurants, paired with great wines and spirits. And, my favorite, the Bubble Room was back featuring champagne and sparkling wines! 
A few of the bites we loved:
🥩 Shula’s Steakhouse: Roasted Linz Heritage Black Angus Beef Tenderloin with Organic Mushrooms, Pearl Onion, Sauce Foyot.
🥓 Smokin’ D’s BBQ: Hand Crafted Bacon, Apple Butter-Bourbon Barbeque Sauce, Buttered Midlins, Pickled Turnip Greens, Sweet & Spicy Apple, Crispy Jalapeno
🍤 Todd English BlueZoo: Dynamite Shrimp with Tempura Fried Crispy Seasoned Sushi Rice, Fried Shishito Pepper, Tentsuyu Sauce and 
🍣 ** Favorite Bite of The Night** Tuna Tataki, Nori Ash, Crusted Tuna, Chili Lime Mignonette, Avocado puree. 
>> 👨🏼‍🍳 Celeb chef Todd English was also there for photo ops and his new wine club! 
🍝 Il Mulino New York Trattoria: Smoked Potato Leek Filled Agnolotti
🥢 Kimono’s: Kimonos Roll Ahi Tuna, Yellowtail, Sustainable Salmon, Wasabi Mayonnaise 
🍭 Carnival Corner: Crispy Cauliflower, Cotton Candy & GrilledSausage Sandwiches 
🍦 Pastry Team: Banana Split Tart with Nitro Vanilla Ice Cream
> I didn’t get to all the food stations and was bummed I missed the new Mexican restaurant, Rosa Mexicana. I heard the guacamole and tacos were fantastic. All the more reason to plan a return visit.
Favorite Sips of the night:
🍾 Bubbles: Mumm Napa Brut Rose & G.H. Mumm Gran Cordon Brut Rose Champagne
🍷 Wines: Penfolds Max’s Shiraz Cabernet, Belle Glos ‘Balade’ Pinot Noir, Four Graces Pinot Noir, OZV Rose, JUSTIN Rose
🥃 Spirits: Suntory Toki Highball, Legent East Meets West Manhattan prepared by my favorite mixologist in Orlando , PJ @the_alcohol_alchemist
It was a great night running into fellow foodies, some I hadn’t seen since before the pandemic! 
Thank you Swan & Dolphin for hosting us and congrats on another fabulous event. See you next year! 
If you haven’t been, add this event to your calendar now for 2023. 
Go #MakeSomedayHappen
#GoEpicOrlando #SwanDolphin
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