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Lessons From A Barista at Four Seasons Resort Orlando

By Christina Thomas Leave a Comment

Barista Tips and Lessons Learned from Barista Bootcamp at Four Seasons Resort Orlando

Confessions of a non-coffee addict and Barista Tips to Brew The Perfect Cup of Coffee

Want to learn barista tips to prepare the perfect cup of coffee? I’m spilling the beans (pun intended) and the lessons learned from the experts at Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort. The impact of the Barista Bootcamp experience is surprising to me years later.

First, let me share with you a little secret. I was not a coffee drinker. The coffee craze was utterly lost on me. The need for coffee was a foreign language. If you’re a coffee drinker, you understand the addiction I refer to. If you’re not, you may find my experience amusing, and possibly inspiring.

Confessions of a Non-Coffee Addict.

On National Coffee Day (September 29), I couldn’t help but reminisce about my coffee drinking evolution. Looking back, I’m surprised at how far my taste buds have come.

My dislike for coffee often shocked my co-workers in the hotel and restaurant industry. Sleep deprivation and a “dark to dark” schedule was the norm and coffee ran thru everyone’s veins. Except mine. How I survived on no caffeine? I have no idea. (I didn’t drink tea or soda either.)

Lessons from a Barista at Four Seasons Orlando with GoEpicurista.com and Tips for the perfect cup of coffee!

No coffee in my cup. Ever!

Coffee always tasted bitter. Burnt in some cases. Two flavors you don’t ever want associated with your coffee. When in situations where it was not polite to turn down a cup, it would be loaded with milk and sugar. The tan pale color was a giveaway there was more milk than coffee in my cup.

Lessons from a Barista at Four Seasons Orlando with GoEpicurista.com and Tips for the perfect cup of coffee!

How much sugar do you need in your coffee? I needed lots!

As part of my Go Epicurista mission to “Make Someday Happen”, I am determined to say YES to new experiences. That included tasting new flavors, trying new things, and exploring new places. And yes, that even included coffee.

When I was offered the chance to visit with Jose Estorino from Javatino, a local Orlando coffee roaster, and be part of a cupping event. I said yes. (I had no idea what cupping was!) It involved tasting a variety of coffees with no milk or sugar. Whoa! That was like jumping into the deep end of the pool for a non-coffee drinker! I realized that using good quality coffee and knowing where it came from made a difference. I even hosted a coffee tasting event at home for family and friends and we had a blast.

Lessons from a Barista at Four Seasons Orlando with GoEpicurista.com and Tips for the perfect cup of coffee!

Surprising tasting experience! Who knew coffee could be so complex?

Lessons from a Barista at Four Seasons Orlando with GoEpicurista.com and Tips for the perfect cup of coffee!

A coffee tasting at home is a fun experience with family and friends!

When a friend invited me to a Coffee Crawl Bike Tour, I signed up! That was one of the most hilarious days of my life. Click over and read all about it. It’s ok to laugh at my expense.

Must Eat in Orlando: C is for Orlando Coffee Crawl with www.GoEpicurista.com and four of the best Orlando Coffee Vendors

Tony Stark, I hear ya!

When I received a media invite to attend the Barista Bootcamp in Four Seasons Resort Orlando, I said yes again! I figured if I ever needed a fallback career as a barista, learning from the best was a good move. Talk about a revealing experience. No, I don’t think I could get hired after my one lesson. But, I did learn how to make coffee the proper way. In the process I also became a fan of Caffe Umbria and my non-coffee drinking days were over.

Lessons from a Barista at Four Seasons Orlando with GoEpicurista.com and Tips for the perfect cup of coffee!

Not sure what my coffee used to say about me was flattering. Now I’m more of a Latte girl – Classic, easy-going!

Coffee Lessons From Barista Bootcamp

Guess what I discovered at Four Seasons Orlando Barista Bootcamp?

I’ve been drinking bad coffee.

Not all coffee tastes bitter. Not all coffee needs loads of sugar and milk to make it palatable.

The hands-on class gave coffee loving guests of this AAA Five Diamond Resort the opportunity to craft cappuccinos and latte art, discover the nuances of single-drip, espresso and cold brew, and assemble festive Boozy Floats, perfect for the holidays.

Lessons from a Barista at Four Seasons Orlando with GoEpicurista.com and Tips for the perfect cup of coffee!

I picked up tips and tricks to create an extraordinary cup of coffee from coffee connoisseur Allison Burkard, manager and resident coffee expert at Lickety Split, the coffee bar and gelateria at the resort. (The gelato is to die for but I will tell you more on another post!)

My barista muscles got a bit of a workout. This is definitely a skill that can’t be mastered in one afternoon, although it was not by lack of trying on my part and an incredible amount of patience and stamina from our instructor.

Lessons from a Barista at Four Seasons Orlando with GoEpicurista.com and Tips for the perfect cup of coffee!

Tamping requires 30 pounds of pressure. No problem!

There’s no wrong way to drink coffee.

“Coffee is a very personal experience. There’s no right or wrong way to drink your coffee. If you want 10 packets of sugar in your single-drip or if you want a single origin Colombian, that’s the right cup for you.” says Burkard.

However, crafting an extraordinary cup of coffee does require the right combination of coffee blend, proper grind, brewing method, machine, water and the barista’s hand.

Lessons from a Barista at Four Seasons Orlando with GoEpicurista.com and Tips for the perfect cup of coffee!

Coffee Culture is big!

Similar to wine, coffee culture is very big. Learning about it is equally interesting and involved. There’s a lot of coffee snobs. I have seen many, especially in my hometown of Portland Oregon where coffee is a way of life. But not at Lickety Split. As Burkard says, they don’t judge how you drink your coffee. They will just make sure you have a perfect brew to start with.

Lessons from a Barista at Four Seasons Orlando with GoEpicurista.com and Barista Tips for the perfect cup of coffee!

Do you love flavored syrups in your coffee? I admit I do!

Caffe Umbria and Lickety Split

Lickety Split is not your standard hotel coffee shop. “Everything is hand-made in house with passion and creativity” says Burkard. She not only followed an extensive training process when the resort first opened, she was also part of the research to select the coffee to be served. People are serious about their coffee and the Four Seasons team is serious about pleasing their guests. This AAA Five Diamond property, the only in Central Florida, serves up a perfect cup in every one of their restaurants.

Burkard says “after extensive research we found Caffe Umbria, a small roaster from Seattle Washington that hand-roasts their beans and puts as much pride and love in their product as we do into ours.”

Lessons from a Barista at Four Seasons Orlando with GoEpicurista.com and Tips for the perfect cup of coffee!

One of the Caffe Umbria blends specially packaged for Lickety Split at Four Seasons Resort Orlando

Emanuele Bizzari, third generation coffee roaster, grandson of Ornello Bizzari from Perugia, Italy, started Caffe Umbria to honor his family’s tradition. He selects beans for every blend and Burkard witnessed the process. Her impression: “He’s a true artist who blends coffee with passion and love.”

Lickety Split features six blends with different flavor notes and profiles and uses four different brew methods – espresso, drip coffee, pour over, and cold brew. It is a customized experience each time. Since the Barista Bootcamp in December of 2015, I have enjoyed many beautiful lattes. Sneaking away to enjoy a cup in the luxury resort is often a treat.

I have also enjoyed Caffe Umbria at home. Their ‘Gusto Crema’ classic Italian espresso produces a creamy and rich brew with a slightly sweet finish. I learned from interacting with them on social media that what I grew up knowing as a “greca” percolator in Dominican Republic is actually called a Bialetti or Moka pot. It’s one of the favored methods to brew coffee at home.

Lessons from a Barista at Four Seasons Orlando with GoEpicurista.com and Tips for the perfect cup of coffee!

Caffe Umbria coffee at home topped with Wondermade bourbon caramel marshmallows!

Brewing The Perfect Cup of Coffee

Grinding coffee requires proper calibration. Too fine grounds and the water takes longer to go through, resulting in bitter coffee. Too coarse of a grind, the water runs through quickly and doesn’t extract the flavor, resulting in watery coffee. Humidity affects the grind as well so the grinder is adjusted through the day.

Lessons from a Barista at Four Seasons Orlando with GoEpicurista.com and Tips for the perfect cup of coffee!

Using the tamp you want to create an even surface. Apply 30 pounds of pressure, tap on the side to loosen any grinds and then swirl it to finish. The tamp should sit evenly. If you press too hard water will not go through it properly.

Lessons from a Barista at Four Seasons Orlando with GoEpicurista.com and Tips for the perfect cup of coffee!

You need to put more pressure!

Lessons from a Barista at Four Seasons Orlando with GoEpicurista.com and Tips for the perfect cup of coffee!

This is what it looks like before it’s brewed.

Did you know a latte pitcher has a pointed pourer, and cappuccino has a rounded spout?

Lessons from a Barista at Four Seasons Orlando with GoEpicurista.com and Tips for the perfect cup of coffee!

Making a Cappucino. Can you tell?

When foaming milk, aeration creates a vortex. Cappuccinos and lattes are made similar but aeration is different. More body and foam for cappuccino, another for lattes. With lattes you have more art, cappuccino you don’t. Whole milk is preferred as the more fat the easier it is to steam.

Lessons from a Barista at Four Seasons Orlando with GoEpicurista.com and Tips for the perfect cup of coffee!

When using the steaming wand, the tip goes right underneath the milk. When you hear the swoosh sound is good. Hear it too long and that’s not great. About 3-4 seconds for a latte, 5-6 for a cappuccino.

Lessons from a Barista at Four Seasons Orlando with GoEpicurista.com and Tips for the perfect cup of coffee!

Foaming milk the correct way!

Your milk should be smooth, with no bubbles and body like a can of wet paint. Scooping foam out of the pitcher is not the proper way of doing it. The foam should be incorporated into the milk. Tap the milk pitcher on the counter to help the foam fully incorporate into the milk before pouring.

Lessons from a Barista at Four Seasons Orlando with GoEpicurista.com and Tips for the perfect cup of coffee!

Tap the milk pitcher on the counter!

Lessons from a Barista at Four Seasons Orlando with GoEpicurista.com and Tips for the perfect cup of coffee!

Allison Burkard shows me the proper way to pour milk into cappuccino

Serve within a minute, the first sip is important once milk separates the flavors change.

Lessons from a Barista at Four Seasons Orlando with GoEpicurista.com and Tips for the perfect cup of coffee!

My own coffee creation!

The Popularity of Cold Brew

Cold brew has become quite popular in the past few years. It is a slow drip process using cold water that takes over 8 hours to brew. This creates a low acidic, smooth and concentrated brew.

At Lickety Split, they use a Japanese style Kioto brewer, created by the Japanese in 1940s. The tower has ice and cold water at top. Two drops of water per second saturate the coarse coffee grinds and filters at the bottom.

It’s now common to see cold brew ready made in grocery stores and in coffee shops. I enjoy it in boozy gelato floats at home like the one I had at Lickety Split.

Lessons from a Barista at Four Seasons Orlando with GoEpicurista.com and Tips for the perfect cup of coffee!

Cold Brew Process at Lickety Split

Barista Tips: How to Brew The Perfect Cup of Coffee?

* These tips were first published in my article in Four Seasons Taste Magazine.

Follow these barista tips to create your perfect cup of coffee:

    1. Use high quality beans. Coffee, like wine, shows flavor and aroma complexities associated with terroir. Whether it’s Costa Rica’s bright fruity acidity, Guatemala’s spicy and chocolaty notes, or Kenya’s bold black currant flavors, explore and find a distinctive well-balanced blend.

    2. Store coffee beans in an air-tight container, at room temperature. (I learned storing in the refrigerator or freezer affects the natural oils in the beans.)

    3. Grind beans immediately before use for the freshest taste. A sea salt / sand texture, not powdery, is best for espresso. A coarser grind is best for coffee press and cold brew.

    4. Use bottled spring water or filtered clean water, not tap water. Lickety Split uses triple filtered water.

    5. Use proper ratio of water to coffee. Too much coffee results in an over-extracted and bitter cup, too much water, and it’s weak. As a rule, two tablespoons per 6 oz. water is recommended.

    6. Optimum brewing water temperature to extract desired flavors is 200°F.

    7. When preparing espresso beverages, brew espresso shot first, then heat and foam milk to avoid milk separation.

    8. Use cold whole milk for richest foam and texture.

    9. Aerate milk until 100°F to create small bubbles. Stop heating milk at 150-160°F, when the metal pitcher is warm to the touch. Give container a good tap on the counter, then swirl to blend foam with milk. The milk should look like wet paint.

    10. Skim milk has less fat content and does not foam in the same manner. Reduce the aeration period or it will foam like soap suds.

    11. Serve espresso beverages within one minute for a perfect creamy first sip.

    12. To avoid bitter and burnt flavors, never reheat coffee or leave on a burner.

    13. Clean equipment after use to eliminate the coffee oil residues, which impart a rancid flavor.

    14. Have fun and experiment with different blends and brewing methods.

Lessons from a Barista at Four Seasons Orlando with GoEpicurista.com and Tips for the perfect cup of coffee!

Learning and having fun with coffee gave me a new appreciation for the coffee craze!

Happy National Coffee Day. Enjoy brewing and coffee drinking my friends!

Cheers!

Go Epicurista

Disclosure: I was an invited media guest of the Four Seasons Resort Orlando. No other compensation was received. I was under no obligation to write this post and all opinions are my own. As always, I only share with you experiences worth celebrating and products I love to inspire you to go #MakeSomedayHappen one delicious bite, sip and trip at a time. To learn more about my guidelines, read my disclosure policy. Cheers!

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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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💜 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
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☕️ “Where The Cloud Ends” Zero-Proof espresso martini with Yuzu Tonic, Lemon Cordial, Espresso, 0% Coffee Liquor
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🧺 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
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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. 
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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
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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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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. 
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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) 
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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!
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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
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🥄 ADOBONG KABUTE lion’s mane + oyster mushrooms
🥄 GINATAAN NA HIPON Key West pink shrimp, crab fat + coconut milk broth
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fourth wave | MATAMIS
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🥄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
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