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Cupcakes, Bubbles & Fairy Tales with Cinderella Movie

By Christina Thomas 2 Comments

Cupcakes, Bubbles, Fairty Tales with Cinderella Movie and www.goepicurista.com

Host the perfect girlfriends get together with Iron Horse Vineyards Bubbles, Orlando’s Blue Bird Bake Shop Cupcakes and Cinderella Movie

I feel I should be writing this post with an old-fashioned pen. You know the ones with the big feather on the end? Let’s sprinkle some pixie dust and simply just imagine, shall we?

Once Upon A Time, in a magical land not so far away, two best friends had the most perfect, fairy tale, kind of day. It all began with an invitation to a special screening for the Disney live-action film of the classic fairy tale Cinderella. Upon watching the trailer, I was instantly inspired to host a girly outing with my best friend. The movie is sweet and lavish and there is nothing sweeter than Cupcakes or more lavish than Bubbles.

Watch the Cinderella trailer and get inspired for your own fairy tale party!


It was a fairy tale day, but possibly not in the way you may imagine. I didn’t get glammed up for a ball like The Fairy Tale Traveler did at the Cinderella premiere in LA – you must check out her site to read all about her awesome experience. However, I did get to do something very special. I got to play hooky, in the middle of a week day, with my best friend from forever – ok since college, but that feels like forever ago! There were no boys, no kids, no work, and no errands to run, just simply two girlfriends doing girly stuff and hanging out. Sounds like a fairy tale, right? Well, it gets better.

When thinking of bubbles, I immediately GO for my favorite sparkling wines: Iron Horse Vineyards from Sonoma County California. Nothing would be more perfect for this Cinderella inspired day than their Fairy Tale Celebration Cuvée made exclusively for Disney. It is the only house wine of the Magic Kingdom and only available at Disney theme parks, hotels and cruise ships. Barry Sterling of Iron Horse was inspired seeing the beautiful Wedding Chapel at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort when he created this special Cuvée 30 years ago! It is the bubbly made for celebrations and one I imagine being served at the Prince’s Ball. Drinking the Fairy Tale Celebration Cuvée makes any day a celebration!

Cupcakes, Bubbles, Fairy Tales with Cinderella Movie and www.goepicurista.com

As far as cupcakes, there are plenty of options but only one would fit as perfectly as Cinderella’s glass slipper, a lovely local shop that has won multiple “best of” awards including being named by The Daily Meal in the Best 101 Cupcakes in America, Blue Bird Bake Shop.

Cupcakes, Bubbles, Fairy Tales with Cinderella Movie and www.goepicurista.com

Best Friends at Blue Bird Bake Shop

My best friend and I met up at this adorably quaint bakery with comfy seating and mismatched china, located in the Audubon Park Garden District of Winter Park, Florida. The name Blue Bird alone evoked images of the blue birds that flutter around Cinderella in the animated movie as well as the live version. Ceramic blue birds adorn the walls in the shop which is also quite charming. How the name came about was a story even sweeter than the movie and the cupcakes we shared. I will tell you more about that later but first let me tell you about the cupcakes. Oh those magical cupcakes!

Cupcakes, Bubbles, Fairy Tales with Cinderella Movie and www.goepicurista.com

We sampled – more like devoured – 5 different flavors of cupcakes from vanilla to chocolate to strawberry and apricot, which all paired beautifully with the fabulous Iron Horse Vineyards Fairy Tale Celebration Cuvée, the owner was kind to allow me to bring in for me to write this story.

Cupcakes and Bubbles Pairing Tips


Pairing wines with dessert can be a bit tricky. You may wonder if there is a secret to pairing bubbles with cupcakes. It’s common to think a sweet dessert wine will pair with a sweet dessert. The truth is, they tend to cancel each other out. Instead, look to strike a balance between the dessert and the wine. If the dessert is sweet, the wine should be a bit drier with good acid backbone. If the wine is sweet then you want the dessert to have some bitter tones like dark chocolate or crisper flavor notes of tropical fruit. Think of dark chocolate paired with a sweet port wine, for example. In this case, the sweet cupcakes paired with the well-balanced Blanc de Noir style Fairy Tale Celebration Cuvée.

This elegant vintage estate-grown and bottled sparkling wine is made predominantly of Pinot Noir grapes, making it expressive and fruit forward, and then in a step away from convention they blend a bit of steely Chardonnay to add some acid structure. The wine has bright fruit aromas and flavors and brut-level dry so it is not sweet. It is rich and creamy which was perfect pairing with the cupcakes.

It also helps to look at the flavor profiles of the wine so if it says it has notes of apricots, honey, peaches, strawberries or lime, then a great pairing could be desserts that also feature those flavors.

If you’re still worried about what to pair with your bubbly, you can never go wrong with chocolate. Just like this sparkling wine, it goes with anything.

No matter what flavors you choose, just remember as long as you enjoy it and share it with friends, there are no rules to tell you you’re wrong. GO Live it up!

Blue Bird Bake Shop inspires dreams of cupcakes dancing in my head


Blue Bird Bake Shop owners Jeff Lambert and Joel Pfrogner have their grandmothers to thank for their love of home-baked treats. Jeff also attributes his love of birds to the time spent bird-watching with her. Before she passed away she told him she would always watch over him in the form of a blue bird. When Jeff decided to leave his corporate job, #MakeSomedayHappen and pursue his entrepreneurial passion to open up a bakery, he and his partner spent months perfecting recipes but had not decided on a name for the shop. One afternoon, as they were discussing the bake shop, a blue bird magically appeared in their back yard and they instantly knew the shop would be named Blue Bird. I got goose-bumps hearing this story and I imagine like the blue birds and the Fairy Godmother that come to Cinderella’s rescue, Jeff’s grandmother is his fairy godmother watching over them. They began producing cupcakes for corporate accounts in 2008 and opened the retail shop in 2010 to the glee of everyone in the neighborhood. They went from 3 dozen cupcakes their first week to 300 hundred dozen per week today. I certainly think there is some pixie dust sprinkled over them!

When I spoke with Jeff about my desire to pair our bottle of Fairy Tale Celebration Cuvée with his cupcakes, we discussed the flavor profile of the wine and the many flavors of cupcakes they offer in the shop. With over 50 recipes in their collection, I was spinning with cupcakes dancing around in my head. Jeff offered to create a special Fairy Tale inspired cupcake for me and the result was absolutely magical!

A Fairy Tale Cupcake:


The Strawberry & Vanilla Swirl cupcake features a moist blend of both strawberry and vanilla cake topped with a swirl of strawberry and vanilla buttercream icing and pink sugar crystals to give it that fairy tale sparkle. The natural flavors of strawberry and vanilla bean were vibrant and the icing was sweet but not in a saccharin artificial way. Similar to the Cinderella Movie, it was sweet and authentic. The pink cupcake was so beautiful and girly it instantly made me think of the pink dress that Cinderella wanted to wear to the ball.

Cupcakes, Bubbles, Fairy Tales with Cinderella Movie and www.goepicurista.com

Fairy Tale Cupcake: Strawberry & Vanilla Swirl

The Fairy Tale Strawberry & Vanilla Swirl special cupcake will be available for a limited time at the bake shop so please stop in this weekend and try it. It was a wonderful pairing with the Iron Horse Vineyards Fairy Tale Celebration Cuvée.

Blue Bird offers eight “everyday flavors” of cupcakes, baked fresh, from scratch, in small batches daily. Madagascar Bourbon Vanilla, creamy butter, real fruit and Dutch-processed cocoa are just a few of the quality natural ingredients they use. There are no artificial colors or sweeteners in their store and you can taste the difference.

The Sweet Cakes Cupcake is the one I imagine being served at a fairy tale wedding. Vanilla cake with white chocolate chips topped with vanilla buttercream icing and sprinkled with white nonparails. Some may see this as a boring or plain “vanilla” cupcake but it was quite elegant and satisfying.

Cupcakes, Bubbles, Fairy Tales with Cinderella Movie and www.goepicurista.com

Sweet Cakes Cupcake

The Tuxedo Cupcake made of chocolate cake topped with cream cheese icing and mini chocolate chips was perfect for those that love chocolate and don’t want buttercream icing. It’s also dressed and ready for the ball!

Cupcakes, Bubbles, Fairy Tales with Cinderella Movie and www.goepicurista.com

Tuxedo Cupcake

There is nothing better than chocolate and bubbly and the Ch-Chocolate Cupcake was perfectly decadent and rich. It’s a chocoholic’s dream made of chocolate cake topped with chocolate buttercream icing and chocolate curls.

Cupcakes, Bubbles, Fairy Tales with Cinderella Movie and www.goepicurista.com

Ch-Chocolate Cupcake

In addition to the everyday flavors, they offer a flavor or two of the day. There is always something exciting to choose from so follow them on Facebook to find out about specials and deals. On this day, the featured flavor was Apricot Ginger and this was spectacular with the Iron Horse Fairy Tale Celebration Cuvée.

Cupcakes, Bubbles, Fairy Tales with Cinderella Movie and www.goepicurista.com

Flavor of the Day: Apricot Ginger

The vanilla cupcake with finely chopped ginger mixed in and a decadent swirl of apricot jam in the center topped with ginger cream cheese icing and candied ginger was an explosion of flavors. It offered that blend of sweet and spicy notes that were made even more expressive by the hints of spice and lime zest in the bubbly.

Other popular everyday flavors include the Neapolitan with layers of chocolate, vanilla and strawberry cake and the traditional Red Velvet. I will also be on the lookout for the Chocolate Guiness cupcake with Irish Cream Icing to make an appearance on the daily menu. Doesn’t that sound spectacular?! See their full list of flavors.

Blue Bird Bake Shop also makes brownies, cookies, scones, muffins, bars and cakes together with their own coffee, Top Hat Coffee, made with organically grown, fair trade beans.

Cupcakes, Bubbles, Fairy Tales with Cinderella Movie and www.goepicurista.com

The staff at Blue Bird Bake Shop is so friendly!

The shop is absolutely charming. The smell of fresh-baked goods gets you the minute you walk in the door. It’s like visiting grandma’s house, if you had a stylish and whimsical granny that could bake really well. This is a great place to meet up with friends and share conversation over sweets that will remind you of your childhood paired with a delicious specialty coffee drink. I hear their Toasted Marshmallow Latte is a real treat!

Blue Bird Bake Shop is located at 3122 Corrine Drive, Orlando FL. 407-228-3822. Open Tuesday through Saturday, 7 am to 5 pm, and on Sunday, 10 am to 4 pm, or until they run out of cupcakes so get there early! Closed on Mondays. Cupcakes are $2.75 each or $30 per dozen which is quite reasonable for high quality baked treats.

Iron Horse Vineyards: Sparkling Wines for Fairy Tale Princesses and Presidents


I must tell you about my love affair with Iron Horse Vineyards and why I selected them for this special day. This family owned and run winery has been producing award-winning sparkling wines since 1976. Three generations ranging in age from 19 – 84 call the property home and their love of the land is apparent in everything they do in their community, their vineyards, their wines and their life. They always strive to put back more than they take out. In the movie, we see Cinderella caring for the land and the animals around her in a similar way. Iron Horse’s motto is where rustic meets elegant and that is what Cinderella is all about.

Cupcakes, Bubbles, Fairy Tales with Cinderella Movie and www.goepicurista.com

A love of the land!

Cinderella’s motto of “Have courage and be kind” could very well apply to the Sterling family that founded Iron Horse Vineyards. Audrey and Barry Sterling fell in love with the property at first sight in 1976. They were sure they were lost driving down Ross Station Road until they came upon their own fairy tale land made of 300 acres of gentle rolling hills. Incurable romantics, and dare I say quite courageous, they bought the property in just two weeks and became pioneers in the Green Valley appellation within Russian River valley of Sonoma County.

Cupcakes, Bubbles, Fairy Tales with Cinderella Movie and www.goepicurista.com

The fairy tale land of Iron Horse Vineyards in Sonoma County, CA.

My first encounter with Iron Horse Vineyards was sampling the Fairy Tale Celebration Cuvée Sparkling at Epcot’s International Food & Wine Festival many years ago. I was instantly smitten. This wine is made exclusively for Disney. If you live in Orlando, you must GO and get yourself a bottle at one of the stores on Disney property or enjoy it in one of their fine restaurants. If you are not able to get your hands on the Fairy Tale Celebration Cuvée, then my pick is its sister, but not of the wicked stepsister variety, the Wedding Cuvée. It is their most popular, a rose sparkling voted #10 on the Wine Enthusiast’s Top 100 Wines of the Year. It has a beautiful rose color and you could probably call it a “Love Potion”. It is quite romantic paired simply with some high quality bittersweet chocolate.

Cupcakes, Bubbles, Fairy Tales with Cinderella Movie and www.goepicurista.com

Iron Horse Wedding Cuvée is a Love Potion!

I was fortunate to visit their gorgeous property not too long ago and completely fell in love with their wines even more. There is something magical about tasting the wines while overlooking the vineyards they come from and meeting the people who make them. It was lovely to meet Joy Sterling, daughter of founders Audrey and Barry and the company’s CEO. She is a dynamic woman who like Prince Charming has taken over the family business and infused her own style bringing the company to even greater accomplishments. I wish I had been able to spend more time chatting with her as she is fascinating. Rather than sitting behind a desk, she was conducting a tour of the property.

Iron Horse Sparkling Wines have been served at the White House during the last five Presidential Administrations starting with the historic Reagan-Gorbachev summit meetings which ended the Cold War. It was the sparkling of choice to usher in the new century at the White House Millennium celebrations New Year’s Eve 1999, to honor the Pope on his 80th birthday, to honor the Queen of England at the Ambassador’s Residence, Winfield House in London in 2011, and to welcome the President of China in 2013. Iron Horse is definitely a sparkling wine for royals, presidents and heads of state so when you drink it you can’t help but feel a bit regal. Go ahead and lift your pinky finger if you want!

Our tour guide was the charming granddaughter, Barrie Sterling, part of the third generation involved in the business. She was passionate about the property and most importantly the care of the vineyards and gardens. She shared with us stories of growing up around the vineyards and we got a chance to taste their full list of 12 estate bottled sparkling wines including the special limited production vintage sparkling they produce in partnership with National Geographic called Ocean Reserve. The winery contributes $4 for each bottle sold to establish Marine Protected Areas and reduce over fishing around the globe. This is a kind company indeed.

Cupcakes, Bubbles, Fairy Tales with Cinderella Movie and www.goepicurista.com

Barrie Sterling of Iron Horse Vineyards welcomed us to the property

If you have the opportunity to visit California’s Sonoma County, take the beautiful drive to Iron Horse Vineyards located at 9786 Ross Station Road in Sebastopol. It’s a bit out-of-the-way from the main corridor of wineries but it is well worth it. I promise you will fall in love in this fairy tale land. Sparkling wine always helps kindle the spark!

A cheese and bubbles pit stop at La Femme du Fromage

After our delicious time with cupcakes and bubbles at Blue Bird Bake Shop, we had some time to spare before the movie so we crossed the street to visit Orlando’s Foodie mecca, East End Market. This is a #MustVisit for anyone coming to Orlando who considers themselves a food lover. We still had some sparkling wine left and decided a cheese and charcuterie board from La Femme du Fromage would be a perfect way to help us finish the bottle. This is the best cheese shop in Orlando. Cheese is one of the few foods you actually see in the Cinderella movie, mostly because she shares it with her adorable little mice friends. They were certainly eating better than her and so were we. Read all about cheese and bubbly pairings on an upcoming post. It was an absolutely decadent way to cap off the afternoon and send us on our way to the theater with full bellies.

Cupcakes, Bubbles, Fairy Tales with Cinderella Movie and www.goepicurista.com

Cheese & Charcuterie board from La Femme du Fromage paired perfectly with Iron Horse Fairy Tale Celebration Cuvée

Disney Comes to Life in the Cinderella Movie


I don’t remember reading many fairy tales as a child but I do remember Cinderella. The theater was full of girls of all ages anticipating their favorite childhood fairy tale, and I was one of them. This visually stunning movie brings to life the original 1950’s animated masterpiece in such a way that makes it classic and modern all at once. The story is not reinvented. We are not seeing a new version or some clever twist of who Cinderella or the Wicked Stepmother really were. It is the original story, there are no surprises. We know how it will end and yet we couldn’t help but weep during the sad scenes and cheer during the happy ones. The theater erupted in applause when the slipper fit! The beauty of the film is simply showing us how the story unfolds and bringing us into this magical world.

2015-02-20 16.22.59

Much is made about fairy tales giving the wrong message to girls and that Cinderella, like most fairy tale maidens, is simply waiting for her prince charming to rescue her. I am a strong and independent woman and I think differently. In this film we see a strong young woman who takes care of herself, who wants to be loved for who she is, who doesn’t need a man to rescue her, who is courageous and kind despite the evil that surrounds her and who is also a girl who wants to dress in a beautiful gown, wear gorgeous shoes and dance all night with her handsome prince at the ball. I can certainly relate to all of that and think it is a great message. Who said you have to forgo being girly and wanting pretty dresses to be an independent woman?

Cupcakes, Bubbles, Fairy Tales with Cinderella Movie and www.goepicurista.com

Who wouldn’t want to be this girl at the ball?

The Cinderella Movie not only celebrates who we are as strong women but also honors the little girl inside us who will never stop wishing upon a star.

The film stars Cate Blanchett as the fashionable wicked stepmother, Lily James as the sublime Cinderella, Richard Madden as the handsome Prince Charming, Stellan Skarsgård as the calculating Grand Duke, Derek Jacobi as the King and Helena Bonham Carter as the Fairy Godmother. Directed by Kenneth Branagh from a screenplay by Chris Weitz, “Cinderella” is produced by Simon Kinberg, Allison Shearmur and David Barron.

Cupcakes, Bubbles, Fairy Tales with Cinderella Movie and www.goepicurista.com

A perfect day of friendship, laughter, cupcakes, bubbly and fairy tales!

Like the song in Frozen Fever, the short that opens the movie, it was a perfect fairy tale day kind of day spent with my best friend doing girly things, talking, laughing, crying, sipping Iron Horse bubbly and tasting the most decadent Blue Bird cupcakes. Call your girlfriends, pick up your favorite bottle of bubbly and cupcakes and GO see Cinderella. You are never too old to have a Fairy Tale Party! #GOfairytale

Cheers!

GO Epicurista

Disclosure: For purposes of writing this article, I received free product from Iron Horse Vineyards, Blue Bird Bake Shop and media passes to the Cinderella Movie screening. No other form of compensation was received and all opinions are my own. As always, I only share with you experiences worth celebrating. Cheers!

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Filed Under: Entertainment, Go Travel & Dine Orlando Tagged With: Blue Bird Bake Shop, Bubbly, Cinderella, Cinderella Movie, Cupcakes, Disney, Iron Horse Vineyards, La Femme Du Fromage, Magic Kingdom, Orlando, Walt Disney World

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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!

Comments

  1. Karen says

    04/07/2016 at 11:02 am

    I love that Fairy Tale Cuvee by IHV, but I only though one could obtain it at EPCOT! Have you seen it at Disney Springs (like in The Pantry with all the Once Upon a Vine Wines)?

    Also, SO MUCH YES to Bluebird Bakery and Femme du Fromage! Two of my favorite haunts in Audubon Park! It was a treat finally meeting you in person the other night!

    We’ll need to arrange a Foodie Edition of Girls Nerding Out!

    Reply
    • Christina Thomas says

      04/08/2016 at 8:59 am

      Karen, thanks so much for checking out Go Epicurista!It was awesome to meet someone who is as into movies and food as I am! Fairy Tale Cuvee is divine, isn’t it? Your best bet for where to find it is to call ahead. It is such an exclusive wine, it is only placed in certain Disney restaurants. A Foodie Edition of Girls Nerding Out is definitely in order! Cheers!

      Reply

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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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Of course, there's Cajun fare with flavors from The Big Easy like Crawfish Boil, Jambalaya, and Beignets! You'll also find Classic Carnaval dishes from Puerto Rico, Trinidad and Tobago, Bahamas, Germany, Spain, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Cuba, Italy, France and more!⠀
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Check out the Mardi Gras floats stationed throughout the theme park, enjoy a Big Easy bash in the streets with energetic dancers and stilt performers in extraordinary costumes, brass band musicians, countless beads and a newly-themed Mardi Gras Tribute Store.⠀
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Stay safe, Be kind. Wear a Mask! ⠀
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"Laissez Les Bons Temps Rouler" (but safely!)⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen⠀
#UniversalMoments #ReadyforUniversal #MardiGras #FatTuesday
“If you are lucky enough to have lived in Paris “If you are lucky enough to have lived in Paris as a young man, then wherever you go for the rest of your life it stays with you, for Paris is a moveable feast.” - Ernest Hemingway (hosted) ⠀
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During my recent visit to French bakery @choulalapastries this yummy pastry caught my eye: “Maple Bourbon Paris Brest” ⠀
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Have you tried a Paris Brest? I had to google what it was! ⠀
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The choux pastry shaped like a wheel is traditionally filled with praline flavored cream. It was invented by Louis Durand, pâtissier of Maisons-Laffitte, in 1910 to promote the bicycle race from Paris to Brest, a town in the north west of France. ⠀
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You can certainly say this is a “moveable feast”! ⠀
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At Choulala, @chefstephsteph fills the flaky pastry with a decadent Maple Bourbon cream, topped with lots of crunchy toasted almonds and powdered sugar. It was such a lovely contrast of flavors and textures. ⠀
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Paris is on my Top 5 places to visit someday. For now I’ll let my taste buds take me there and maybe I’ll find the time to finally read Hemingway’s beloved memoir about his time in Paris there for added travel inspiration. ⠀
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It’s #NationalAlmondDay what’s your favorite almond topped treat? ⠀
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Stop by Choulala (like ooh la la!) at one of 3 locations and have a Paris inspired feast! ⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #ChoulalaFinePastries #MakeSomedayHappen #WinterParkFL #LoveOrlando
“You know I have never met a woman who is not st “You know I have never met a woman who is not strong. They don’t exist.” - Diane Von Furstenberg ⠀
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As 2021 keeps rolling along, I continue to turn to amazing female entrepreneurs for a bit of food, travel and entrepreneurship inspiration. Luckily, Orlando has so many strong women to know and I’m just getting started in my series about “Inspiring Women in the Orlando Food Industry” on GoEpicurista.com ⠀
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My latest chat is with Sue Buttery, the dynamic owner of @juicebarorlando in @TheMilkDistrict ⠀
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She had some awesome tips about clean eating and how to do a juice cleanse right. She shared her travel dreams, what tops her “someday list” and fantastic entrepreneurship advice. ⠀
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If like me, you’ve indulged a bit too much recently, fresh juices, healthy bites and a bit of wellness inspiration is just what we need to start the week on a positively feel-good kick!⠀
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👉🏼 Check out the blog (link in bio) and #MakeSomedayHappen ⠀
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👩🏻‍🍳 Don’t miss previous chats with @pompomsteahouse @SisterHoneys @eatprojectpop @bcupcake ⠀
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#GOepicOrlando #JuiceBarOrlando #WomenSupportingWomen #WomenEntrepreneurs
“Moons and Junes and ferris wheels⠀ The dizzy “Moons and Junes and ferris wheels⠀
The dizzy dancing way that you feel⠀
As every fairy tale comes real⠀
I've looked at love that way.” - Joni Mitchell (hosted)⠀
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Happy Valentine’s Day everyone! Whether you’re celebrating with your bae, your bestie, your kids or on your own. Today is about loving life! Enjoy it! 💕 ⠀
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Did you know today is also “National Ferris Wheel Day”? It celebrates George Washington Gale Ferris Jr., the man who invented the Ferris Wheel for the 1893 World’s Fair. His invention was a success and lives on today with iconic ones in London, Singapore and now Orlando’s ICON Park! ⠀
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@iconparkorlando is a fantastic date destination in Orlando. Dine at one of 40 restaurants including my favorite for Spanish tapas @tapatoroorlando and then reserve a private capsule on The Wheel to get the best views of The City Beautiful. ⠀
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👉🏼 Check out  special offers on their website and inquire with restaurants for discounts to attractions after you dine. ⠀
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Where are you celebrating today? #MakeSomedayHappen 💕⠀
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#GOepicOrlando #IconParkOrlando #NationalFerrisWheelDay #ValentinesDay
“No matter how hard the past, you can always beg “No matter how hard the past, you can always begin again.” — Buddha (hosted)⠀
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I love celebrating the Lunar New Year! We get a second chance to begin the year again! ⠀
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Our friends at @eathawkers Hawkers Asian Street Food are celebrating in a fun and safe way this year with the “Hawkers Ox Box To Go” available now through Friday 2/26 during the 15 day Lunar NY celebration.⠀
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It’s such a thoughtfully composed box. Inside is everything you need to celebrate! And I love how each dish is labeled! ⠀
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The 6 dishes considered “lucky” traditionally eaten on Lunar New Year celebrations: ⠀
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🥡 Singapore Mei Fun noodles bring longevity & prosperity⠀
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🥢 Chicken Lo Mein brings longevity & happiness⠀
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🥡 Yi-Yi’s Chicken Dumplings bring wealth & treasure⠀
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🥢 Spring Rolls bring wealth & prosperity⠀
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🥡 Hawker’s Delight brings health & well-being⠀
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🥢 Sugared Donuts with Orange Glaze brings fullness & fortune⠀
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The box also includes: ⠀
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🎉 A confetti popper to represent the fireworks enjoyed on Lunar New Year to ward off evil and bad omens. ⠀
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🎉 A QR code with access to a private video of the traditional Lion Dance performance. ⠀
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🎉 An info-card full of fun facts & details about Lunar New Year and how to celebrate at home. ⠀
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🎉 Hóngbāo, the traditional red envelope, which includes the chance to win a variety of gifts including complimentary Roti Canai and FREE HAWKERS TAKEOUT FOR A YEAR!⠀
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Order at EatHawkers.com for takeout & delivery for the lucky numbers price of $36.88! ⠀
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PS: Be sure to add some Vietnamese Iced Coffee to your order for an extra caffeine boost! I always do! It’s sooo yummy!⠀
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Happy Lunar New Year! ⠀
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#GOepicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #EatHawkers #LunarNewYear
"Let us be grateful to people who make us happy." "Let us be grateful to people who make us happy." - Marcel Proust (hosted)⠀
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What makes you happy? 😄⠀
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Two things make me happy: sweets and friends! 💕 I’m so grateful I found both at @choulalapastries in Winter Park. ⠀
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I finally met @chefstephsteph in person after drooling over her fantastic macarons and pastries for years! I first tried them during my staycation at @wyndhamgrandorl and fell in love. Stephanie is originally from Oregon like me, and it was so fun to meet her at the Park Avenue bakery. She’s dynamic so expect to hear more about her in future posts! ⠀
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These gorgeous Choulala macarons, chou puff pastries, eclairs, and entremets with some bubbles are the perfect way to celebrate any day of the week! ⠀
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💕 If you're looking for ideas for this Galentine's or Valentine's Day, check out my post Top 9 Ways To Celebrate Valentine’s and My Epic Guide for an easy French-themed movie night at home on GoEpicurista.com and pick up a box of assorted treats at Choulala. ⠀
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One eclair, 3 macarons and 3 chou pastries in a cute little box are only $18! It makes a great gift too! ⠀
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Here's what I had so you can get inspired. Flavors change frequently! ⠀
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White Plate: Pina Colada, Black Forest and Amaretto Macaron, S'mores Eclair topped with marshmallows and chocolate drizzle and Bananas Foster, Fruity Pebbles, and Lemon Meringue chou puff pastry⠀
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Paris Plate: Pistachio and PB&J macarons, Lychee Rose and Mango chou puff pastries⠀
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Board: Lavender and Lemon Poppy Seed Macaron, Creme Brulee and Key Lime pie chou puff pastry, Tiramisu entremet. ⠀
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👉🏼 Tag your favorite person in the comments and have a sweet weekend! 💕⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #ChoulalaFinePastries #WinterParkFL #LoveOrlando #ValentinesWeekend
"I love pizza; you can't really go wrong with pizz "I love pizza; you can't really go wrong with pizza." - Nick Jonas ⠀
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Nick is spot on! Yesterday was #NationalPizzaDay but I think every day is a good day for pizza! 🍕⠀
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Tell me are you a 🥩 meat lover, 🥗 veggie head, 🍳 foodie with an egg on top, or🧀 classic cheese when ordering pizza? ⠀
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Let’s talk about a few of my favorite pizzas around Orlando for inspiration:⠀
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🍕Kissimmee:  @caponespizzakissimmee in @PromenadeatSunsetWalk - Al's Carne Grande was a meat lover's dream! Fun date night spot which I featured in an article for @experiencekissimmee ⠀
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🍕 Hunter's Creek: @pienezzapizza Angie’s veggie pizza and Meat Monster because I like veggies and hubby likes all the meats. ⠀
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🍕 Lake Nona: @parkpizzalakenona Pepperoni Picante and Med Veg (do you spot the trend for our pizza nights?) 🤣 ⠀
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🍕 Winter Park:  @sixtyvineswinterpark a classic Margherita with pepperoni never goes out of style! ⠀
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🍕 Park Ave: @pratowp Widowmaker! When you know you know why this one makes every best pizza list! ⠀
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🍕 Disney Springs: @blazepizza Veg Out! (I love the make your own option too!) ⠀
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🍕 SoDo: @official_pizza_bruno the best in town. The one every pizza lover should try at least once in their life! ⠀
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There’s quite a few new pizzas in town that I haven’t had a chance to try but are on my list thanks to @amydroo @orlando.foodie,  @bebefehr @orlandomag and @faiyazkara @orlandoweekly Pizza stories! ⠀
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Do you have a favorite pizza spot? Let me know in the comments, because pizza makes every day better!⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #PizzaDay #LoveOrlando
"Shine bright like a diamond. Find light in the be "Shine bright like a diamond. Find light in the beautiful sea. I choose to be happy." - Rihanna (hosted)⠀
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Congratulations to Fred and the team at @reelfishcoastal in Winter Park on celebrating their 4th Anniversary today! ⠀
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RiRi must have been singing about the awesome "Get Reel Happy Hour" - it's one of the best #HappyHour for foodies in Orlando! If you haven't been,  make plans and go check it out! ⠀
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In celebration of their anniversary today, don your favorite sailor attire and don't miss a special themed "Yacht Rock Happy Hour" from 4 pm - 7 pm with @dj50one50 ⠀
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Their Happy Hour Tuesday - Friday includes awesome food and drink specials (scroll to see fish tacos, oysters & they have non seafood options too like chicken sliders and chicken tacos!!):⠀
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$4 Select Draft Beers, Premium Well Drinks, ⠀
$4 Oyster Shooter, with Vodka or Tequila⠀
$5 Select Wines by the Glass, Sangria & Select Specialty Cocktails including the Seaside Margarita, Sunset Sangria (my favorite)⠀
$6 Half-Dozen Gulf Oysters, Raw or Baked, Two Baja-Style Fish or Shrimp Tacos, Hand-Battered Fried Clam Strips Basket⠀
$7 Two Burger or Chicken Sliders ⠀
$8 Firecracker Shrimp, Half-Pound Peel & Eat Mayport Shrimp ⠀
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Stay for dinner, enjoy this week's Lobster Fest Anniversary Special: All day, Tue 2/9 - Thur 2/11,  1.5 lb Maine Lobster with baked potato, coleslaw & drawn butter for only $39! (Market price is $50) ⠀
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Choose Happy! Go #MakeSomedayHappen⠀
#GoEpicOrlando #ReelFishCoastalKitchen #LoveOrlando
"All you need is love. But a little chocolate now "All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn't hurt." - Charles M. Schulz (hosted)⠀
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We had the most decadent dinner at A Land Remembered, the fine dining restaurant at @rosenshinglecreek which ended with this indulgent flourless chocolate mousse cake!⠀
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We took advantage to enjoy the great weather we’re having and sat outdoors on the veranda overlooking the beautiful grounds and golf course. It felt like being back home. ⠀
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The flagship resort of beloved local hotel company @rosenhotels had been closed since the pandemic began last March and just reopened this week. Yet the restaurant staff did not skip a beat, providing the same exceptional service and expertly executed dishes they've been known for since they opened in 2006. ⠀
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ALR (A Land Remembered) is one of the hidden gem restaurants in Orlando that locals may forget because it's tucked inside this sprawling resort. If you haven't been, it's time to go! ⠀
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Scroll to see our scrumptious dinner. We started with scallops and the best jumbo lump crab cake in town. Followed by lobster bisque & wedge salad. For entrees, the Surf & Turf with Filet and Lobster and the buttery Sea Bass with Lobster Mac n' Cheese and asparagus on the side. We were stuffed but could not skip the bread pudding with rum raisin ice cream and that decadent cake! ⠀
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If you're looking for a wonderful restaurant for a romantic date night, whether this Valentine's weekend or any time, make reservations. Check stories for a 25% discount coupon especially for GoEpicurista. ⠀
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They are following “Rosen's Total Commitment" extensive safety protocols. Temperature checks, mask required upon entry and we noticed constant cleaning by the staff. ⠀
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💕 Special Valentine's Menu available Thur. 2/11 - Sun. 2/14. Make it a full weekend getaway with special overnight package and spa treatments at The Spa at Shingle Creek with complimentary bubbles and 25% discount.⠀
 ⠀
Read more about Rosen Shingle Creek on GoEpicurista.com - I've written about the 9 reasons foodies love it and named it one of the best Orlando resort for foodies to visit. ⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #RosenShingleCreek
"I have the right to life, liberty and chicken win "I have the right to life, liberty and chicken wings." - Mindy Kaling⠀
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It's Super Bowl Sunday! The biggest chicken wing consuming day of the year! Fun Fact: over 1.25 BILLION wings are consumed on this day alone in the US! ⠀
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As much as I love traditional Buffalo wings, here are a few favorite wings around Orlando with a unique global flair and one classic Buffalo that left my lips on fire, craving more! ⠀
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@ssontheroll in @historicdowntownsanford Korean style crispy wings are packed with flavor! Enjoy in the patio with a cold beer from @celerycitycraft⠀
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@yeomanscaskandlion "Cambridge Wings" are addictive at this British pub in @promenadeatsunsetwalk in Kissimmee! Slow oven baked then seared on the grill, tossed in Buffalo sauce or my favorite, Coconut Curry Sauce. Pair with a crisp cider or Boddington's on tap. ⠀
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@domufl in EastEndMkt wings have become so popular they now have @DomuWings virtual delivery!  Extra Extra Crispy coated in kimchi butter sauce. Addictive like candy! Pair with Sriracha Bloody Mary for brunch!⠀
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@eathawkers Korean twice-fried wings in garlic gochujang, topped with peanuts, cilantro and sesame are the bomb! Also get Hawker's Wings with sweet Thai chili, Hainanese, honey sriracha, spring onion ginger or a five-spice rub. Pair with Sapporo beer.⠀
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@raglanroadpub at @disneysprings "Nom Nom" sweet 'n' spicy wings tossed in a honey, chili flake, soy & ginger sauce. Pair with Guinness of course! ⠀
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@parkpizzalakenona Oak-Fired Chicken Wings Reverse Buffalo (my favorite), Cajun, Sticky Thai, Carolina Reaper, or Mango Habanero. Pair with a house-crafted beer. ⠀
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Yuzu Miso Wings at @japanpavilionmitsukoshiusa Katsura Grill at Epcot, a peaceful hidden gem to grab a bite. ⠀
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1521 Wings at @wyndhamgrandorl Resort were fiery good! The kind you can smell spicy before you take a bite. The kind you take bite after bite. They also have sweet & sticky and bourbon BBQ if you don't want to set your soul on fire. (but in a good way!) ⠀
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Lastly, for plant-based meat-free eaters, @DharmaFineVittles at @marketonsouth Fried Chick'n dippers with agave pepper drizzle fooled me!!⠀
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Which wings will you go for?⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen
"It's never too early for ice cream." - Michael Sc "It's never too early for ice cream." - Michael Scott (hosted)⠀
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Did you know the first Saturday in February is #IceCreamforBreakfastDay?! I think any time and any weather is a good time for ice cream! ⠀
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I had a little fun during a recent visit to @sweetbyholly to pick up some scrumptious cupcakes and couldn't resist getting a soft serve ice cream topped with Nutella and caramel drizzle, and chocolate and caramel pearls. ⠀
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Don't miss getting an ice cream sundae made with "Chill In Peace" Premium Ice Cream from Santa Monica, California.  There are 8 flavors, 8 toppings and 8 drizzles to choose from. Each serving comes with 2 drizzles and 2 toppings!⠀
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I also had some fun with colored backgrounds taking pictures of my ice cream! Scroll to see... which one do you like best? Red, Blue, Black... ⠀
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Happy Saturday Everyone! ⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #SweetByHolly #IceCream #LoveOrlando
"Among the things you can give and still keep are "Among the things you can give and still keep are your word, a smile, and a grateful heart." - Zig Ziglar⠀
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Kindness. Smiles. Decadent Desserts! Every day is a new opportunity to share! I hope your day is full of joy.⠀
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If you want to do something nice for your favorite person, go get an assortment of cakes and pies at @SisterHoneys in the SoDo District. ⠀
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Here’s a little secret: If you truly want a way to a girl's heart, I promise you cakes and pies are better than flowers! 😉 ⠀
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Today is #WearRedDay in support of the American Heart Association, so I have to place a disclaimer here: "Enjoy all in moderation!" ⠀
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I'm so honored to be able to share the inspiring entrepreneurial stories of strong and bold women I admire. I recently published an article about Sister Honey's owner and chef Evette Rahman on GoEpicurista.com  Check it out. I promise you'll be inspired, and hungry for some of the best cakes and pies in Orlando!⠀
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Happy Friday! ⠀
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#MakeSomedayHappen⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #SisterHoneys #BlackWomenOwnedBusiness #InspiringWomen #LoveOrlando
"Life is very simple. What I give out comes back t "Life is very simple. What I give out comes back to me. Today, I choose to give love." - Louise Hay (hosted) 💕 ⠀
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Give love, share tapas! Whether you're looking for a romantic date night or a fun night out with your besties, you'll want to check out @tapatoroorlando at @iconparkorlando⠀
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We had such a fun night out at one of our favorite Spanish restaurants in Orlando. We sat outdoors and watched the Orlando Eye lit up. Sipped tasty cocktails - Zaragoza Spritz with Aperol, Cava & blackberry brandy and Paloma de Majorca with Avion Tequila & Q Grapefruit soda. ⠀
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We also sampled a few courses from their upcoming Valentine's Day Dinner Suf & Turf menu. The "Pan con Tomate" Tomato-Rubbed Bread with Iberico ham was so tasty paired with Cava Rose. The Surf & Turf with filet, lobster tail, cheesy mashed potatoes and asparagus was divine. ⠀
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👉🏼 Make reservations! The four-course Surf & Turf meal for $85 per couple (plus tax & gratuity) is available Friday 2/12 - Sunday 2/14 and includes:⠀
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💕 Tomato-Rubbed Bread with Iberico Ham⠀
💕 Shrimp Cocktail⠀
💕 Surf & Turf Platter with Filet & Lobster Tail⠀
💕 Chocolate Lava Cake⠀
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Tapa Toro is also offering fun Grazing Boards: a "Smashing Heart", Savory Snack Board, or Sweet Treats Board available for pickup February 12 - 14 at Tapa Toro.⠀
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On Valentine's Day, Sunday 2/14, enjoy brunch from 11am to 3pm with free mimosa with the purchase of any brunch entree. ⠀
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Tapa Toro also has a takeout option if you prefer to dine at home. ⠀
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Share The Love and The Tapas!⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #TapaToroOrlando #IconParkOrlando #LoveOrlando
“Never say never, because limits, like fears, ar “Never say never, because limits, like fears, are often just an illusion.” - Michael Jordan (hosted) ⠀
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Just hold on! Illusions are all around us! And while #GroundhogDay tells us we have 6 more weeks of winter, there’s plenty of fun to be had in Orlando. ⠀
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I was invited to check out the new @museumofillusions.orlando at @iconparkorlando on I-Drive and oh my, what a mind-bending experience that was! ⠀
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We had a blast checking out over 50 exhibits that fool the eye and the mind using math, psychology, and science. Of course, taking these fun photos was hilarious. Scroll to see our favorite illusions! ⠀
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It made for perfect date night fun after our dinner next door at @tapatoroorlando and it's a fun experience for the whole family. They call this “Edutainment” 😃⠀
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A variety of COVID-19 safety measures are in place, including mandatory face masks, limited capacity, designated time slots reservations, one-way paths through exhibits, ongoing cleaning by staff, and hand sanitizers and wipes for guests. The experience lasted about an hour but you can be there a bit longer.⠀
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This is the first Florida outpost and 20th location for the rapidly-expanding Museum of Illusions brand that started in Zagreb, Croatia in 2015. Follow them on social media for special promotions and more information.⠀
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“Don't part with your illusions. When they are gone, you may still exist, but you have ceased to live.” - Mark Twain⠀
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Go #MakeSomedayHappen⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #museumofillusionsorlando #moiFL15 #loveorlando
One Night Only!!! If you love really good Thai foo One Night Only!!! If you love really good Thai food, you don't want to miss the "Pomisaan" Pop-Up at @pompomsteahouse tonight 2/1! ⠀
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Chef / Owner Pom Moongauklang, the fiery force behind award-winning, Pom Pom’s Teahouse is taking over her own kitchen, setting aside the sandwich press and creating a dinner feast from Isaan, the Northern Thailand region where she grew up.⠀
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"Don't call it "Thai" - Call it Isaan!" She tells me. The cuisine is different from what we normally find in Thai restaurants with a Bangkok influence. In the northern region, they use more herbs, roots & spices. It's very healthy "good for you" food. ⠀
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I had the chance to taste the Pomisaan dishes during a visit to her commissary kitchen & had a tough time choosing a favorite. They were all bright, light, and full of flavor. The kind you just want to take one more bite. ⠀
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If this pop up goes well, there may be more in the future. Go show your support. Orlando's culinary scene needs this kind of food for more than one night! ⠀
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KAO MUN GAI: steamed chicken, topped with roasted garlic, cilantro, scallions, served on a bed of ginger jasmine rice. Fermented soybean and homemade sweet chili dipping sauces, Nappa cabbage, vegetable soup side. ⠀
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K-NOM  JEEN “Thai spaghetti” fish pureed with lemongrass, turmeric, krachai ginger root, coconut milk, fish sauce, coconut cream, served with fresh bean sprouts, kaffir lime, Thai basil, rice vermicelli. ⠀
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HA MOK PLA steamed in banana leaf, red curry fish made with kaffir lime, with coconut cream with Nappa cabbage, ginger rice. Fantastic, very concentrated flavors intended to eat in7-10 bites. ​⠀
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LAAB with a blend of fresh maitake, shiitake, and enoki mushrooms, lime, mint, cilantro, cilantro, scallions, red onions, sweet soy, fermented soy roasted rice.⠀
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KUAY TIEW HAENG (goy tew hank) cold rice noodle street food style with mushroom soy, bean sprouts, cilantro, scallions, cilantro, roasted garlic. ⠀
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Visit GoEpicurista.com for an inspiring conversation with Pom. We chatted about food, travel, someday lists, and entrepreneurial inspiration. You don't want to miss it! ⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen
“Life is what happens to us while we are making “Life is what happens to us while we are making other plans." - Allen Saunders (ad) ⠀
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Boy are we being constantly reminded “life happens!”⠀
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This month, I was planning to celebrate BIG. It’s the 7th Anniversary of GoEpicurista.com and I had so many projects and goals. Unfortunately untold setbacks, major plumbing issues, car troubles and a host of other challenges completely derailed my best laid plans. It was one thing after another. I had to keep reminding myself setbacks are temporary. ⠀
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Creating memories and spending time with loved ones, celebrating every day, is truly the most important. So we found the time within the chaos to make a fun dinner, open a bottle of wine and celebrate! ⠀
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I made my go-to chimichurri style fresh herb sauce I’ve been making for years to elevate any dish and used it on grilled surf & turf, veggies, Caprese salad and crusty Tuscan bread. ⠀
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It all came together in about 15 minutes! The sauce is super versatile using fresh herbs and ingredients you have at home to adapt to your tastes. ⠀
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And the sauce that goes with everything, deserves the wine that pairs with everything! ⠀
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CK Mondavi & Family are celebrating their 75th Anniversary!!! Their wines at $6.99 are phenomenally approachable and affordable with great quality and value. Perfect to enjoy any time. ⠀
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It’s the reason I’ve been a @ckmondaviwines ambassador since 2016! We drink these at home all the time, especially the Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.⠀
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👉🏼 Check out GoEpicurista.com for the herb sauce recipe and a bunch of ways you can use it to take everything from avocado toast to grilled meats, seafood and veggies to the next level!⠀
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This is Easy Entertaining. Especially for when life happens! ⠀
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Celebrate every day! ⠀
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#GoEpicRecipes #MakeSomedayHappen ⠀
#CelebratewithCKMondavi #CKM75years ⠀
#CKMondaviWines
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  • Easy British Pub Night at Home
    Easy British Pub Night at Home
  • Frosted Frozen Grapes Take Any Party To The Next Level
    Frosted Frozen Grapes Take Any Party To The Next Level
  • Create The Most Epic Grilled Cheese Sandwich Ever!
    Create The Most Epic Grilled Cheese Sandwich Ever!
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    Spooky Voodoo Rum Punch

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Proud to be a 2021 CK Mondavi Ambassador! Follow #CKMondaviAmbassador and #CKMondaviWines for recipes and wine pairing tips.

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