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Downton Abbey: A New Era Movie Inspired Dinner Party Menu and Travel Fans Will Love

By Christina Thomas Leave a Comment

Celebrate the new release of Downton Abbey: A New Era with an Epic Downton Inspired Menu from Orlando’s Top Cooking School

I was invited by Focus Features on behalf of Downton Abbey: A New Era to a cooking class at Orlando’s famed Truffles and Trifles Cooking School and to preview an early screening of the movie for purposes of this review. All opinions are my own. As always, I only share products and experiences I love to inspire you to go celebrate life with family and friends and #MakeSomedayHappen one delicious bite, sip, and trip at a time.

If you’re a Downton Abbey fan, you’re in the right place! Join me as we explore the second full-length feature film spin-off based on the popular British historical drama TV series, Downton Abbey: A New Era. There’s plenty of travel inspiration and delicious fun with a dinner menu worthy of The Crawley’s, created by Marci Arthur of Truffles and Trifles Cooking School in Orlando.

If you haven’t watched Downton Abbey and are not a fan (yet), I highly recommend binge-watching all 6 seasons! Watch the first film adaptation released in 2019. And, then come back for Downton Abbey: A New Era. I think you’ll absolutely love it!

Downton Abbey: A New Era
Photo courtesy of Focus Features

About The Movie – Downton Abbey: A New Era

Release Date: May 20, 2022

Rated: PG

Story: From award-winning creator, Julian Fellowes comes the motion picture event DOWNTON ABBEY: A NEW ERA. The much-anticipated cinematic return of the global phenomenon reunites the beloved cast as they go on a grand journey to the South of France to uncover the mystery of the Dowager Countess’ newly inherited villa. While at Downton, a movie studio takes over the famed estate to film as Hollywood’s silent movies turn to “talkies”.

Cast: Downton Abbey: A New Era reunites the original principal cast. The Crawley family, their trusted household staff, and friends. All our favorites are back! Hugh Bonneville (Robert Crawley, Earl of Grantham), Elizabeth McGovern (Lady Cora), Laura Carmichael (Lady Edith), Michelle Dockery (Lady Mary), Allen Leech (Tom Branson), Dame Maggie Smith (Violet, Dowager Countess), and Penelope Wilton (Isobel Grey). The staff includes Jim Carter (our favorite Mr. Carson), Phyllis Logan (Mrs. Hughes), Raquel Cassidy (Baxter), Brendan Coyle (Mr. Bates), Joanne Froggatt (Ana), Kevin Doyle (Mr. Molesley), Robert James-Collier (Mr. Barrow), Sophie McShera (Daisy), Michael Fox (Andy) Lesley Nicol (Mrs. Patmore). Harry Hadden-Paton (Bertie Pelham), Imelda Staunton (Lady Bagshaw), Tuppence Middleton (Lucy Smith), Samantha Bond (Lady Rosamund) round out the cast. Notably absent is Mathew Goode (Henry Talbot) and this is part of the storyline. Joining the cast is Hugh Dancy, Laura Haddock, Nathalie Baye, and Dominic West.

Downton creator Academy-Award® winner Julian Fellowes wrote the film’s screenplay, with Emmy and BAFTA Award-winning Gareth Neame and Emmy Award-winning Liz Trubridge as producers with Fellowes.

Watch The Trailer Here.

Find Showtimes Here.

Downton Abbey: A New Era Movie Review

Ever since the first film ended with the royal visit of King George V and Queen Mary, we’ve been clamoring for more. Creator Julian Fellows delivered. We’ve been missing our ever so fashionably dressed friends from upstairs – The Crawleys – and the even more interesting motley crew from below the stairs – the household staff. These characters were all so wonderfully written, true fans couldn’t help but wonder what happened next in their lives. This new film felt like catching up with old friends and loved ones we hadn’t seen in a while, kind of how real-life felt after reconnecting with friends after the pandemic lock-downs.

Downton Abbey: A New Era
Photo courtesy of Focus Features

A Gift For Fans!

The second film is a gift to fans. If you haven’t seen the show, you will miss the important backstory of these characters. In some very poignant moments of the film, it sadly felt like it was a final love letter goodbye. Bring the tissues.

Character stories were wrapped up with a pretty bow. Some, maybe a little too neatly, but I’m ok with that. As they were getting ready to welcome the 1930s, many of them were off to new adventures. I smiled, laughed out loud, and cried unashamedly in a full theater. Something else I hadn’t done since early 2020.

No Spoilers But A Lot Happens!

No spoilers here. But expect a lot of important life moments for these characters. There is a wedding, a birth, and sadly a funeral. Scandal, flirtations, proposals, new loves, and new careers. An exciting trip to the French Riviera, fashionable parties (costume design was stunning!), and a very meta “movie within a movie” storyline that provided some of the most hilarious scenes with tongue-in-cheek, “life imitating art imitating life” winks to the audience. Mr. Molesley (Kevin Doyle) has another iconic scene. If you remember his curtsy to the Queen in the first film, this one is just as funny.

Photo courtesy of Focus Features

Of course, it wouldn’t be Downton without lots of witty zingers from The Dowager Countess, played by the incomparable Dame Maggie Smith. It’s a fact she steals every scene she’s in. But there’s plenty going on with all the other characters too. I loved seeing the friendship between Violet and Isobel Grey Merton (Penelope Wilton) continue. Lady Edith’s “modern woman” storyline balancing motherhood and a career in publishing was also great to see included.

Will you watch the new movie? Will you love it? Or will you think they overstayed their welcome much like that pesky Hollywood film crew? The two-hour film seems to fly by as the story develops very fast. If you’re a fan of the show, I think you’ll love both the movie and this Downton-inspired cooking experience in Orlando.

Daisy and Mrs. Patmore in the Downton Abbey kitchen. Photo courtesy of Focus Features

In The Kitchen with Marci Arthur at Truffles & Trifles Cooking School in Orlando

Local Culinary Hall of Fame inductee Marci Arthur, owner of Trifles & Truffles Cooking School guided us through a Downton Abbey celebration-worthy menu. Nine of us gathered for a three-hour Downton-inspired cooking class and I can now say I learned how to make a traditional French soufflé! Crossed that off the bucket list!

Truffles and Trifles started 38 years ago as a dream to share the love of cooking and make being in the kitchen fun. Arthur says “I’m in the business of joy. A joy of cooking!” and it shows!

It is the largest, most successful cooking school in the Southeast and was named one of the top five cooking schools in the country by the Food Network. If you’re looking for a fun date night (Marci loves getting guys to cook!) or a great activity with girlfriends, check out the Truffles & Trifles website for their class schedule. “Tacos and Tequila” and “Beef and Bourbon” evening classes are quite popular and include cocktails as well as a full menu. You can also book a private class for any event or company team-building.

Mrs. Patmore and Daisy – Just kidding! My friend Brooke (who’s a kitchen wizard!) and I had such a great time preparing souffle and soup!

Marci Arthur is a Downton Abbey Fan!

Marci Arthur, now in her 80’s, is not only a fan of Downton Abbey, she reminded me so much of the ladies in the show. She combines the feistiness and witty humor of The Dowager Countess; the culinary wizardry of Mrs. Patmore; the kindness of Lady Cora; the trailblazing spirit of Lady Edith; and the take-charge attitude of Lady Mary.

Meeting her was the highlight of this wonderful Downton Abbey-inspired experience! She has so many stories to tell that we could have listened to her for hours. Every recipe came with a story – from being in the kitchen with First Lady Rosalynn Carter to Julia Child. We told her she must write a book! Which would then of course be turned into a film.

Meeting Marci Arthur of Truffles and Trifles Cooking School was the highlight!

The Downton Abbey Inspired Menu

The menu consisted of classic French dishes given an original twist by Marci Arthur, classically trained in France. We were divided into 3 groups, with each group preparing 2-3 recipes. Marci and her assistant Rashida, also classically trained, provided hands-on guidance throughout the class. They were attentive and stepped in to help when we needed it, but also allowed us to actually get our hands dirty, and do most of the cooking. A proud feeling of the delicious meal we enjoyed in the end.

The Starter:

  • BAKED BRIE WITH LEMON AND HERBS: When you cut into the gorgeous golden pastry adorned with hearts, this luscious creamy brie, filled with fresh parsley, thyme, lemon, and pepper came oozing out. Top it with Cranberry-Ginger chutney and serve over a buttery cracker. Perfect appetizer.
Downton Abbey: A New Era inspired menu by Truffles and Trifles Cooking School. Baked Brie with Cranberry Ginger Chutney
Truffles and Trifles Baked Brie with Marci’s Cranberry-Ginger Chutney. Ooh la la!

Soup & Salad Courses a Must!

  • ROASTED PEAR AND GORGONZOLA SALAD: Large pears were roasted in brown sugar and balsamic vinegar for an elegant salad of seasonal greens topped with gorgonzola.
  • ROASTED TOMATO AND GARLIC SOUP: This was one of the best tomato soups I’ve ever had. And my team made it! Seasoned and roasted vine ripe tomatoes and garlic combined with lots of fresh herbs and chicken stock resulted in a comforting yet elegant soup. Marci kept encouraging us to taste and layer the seasonings throughout the process and that makes all the difference. I imagined Mrs. Patmore doing the same with Daisy.
Downton Abbey: A New Era inspired menu at Truffles and Trifles Cooking School in Orlando
Soup and Salad course, full of flavor!

The Main Course:

  • MARCI’S LONDON BROIL WITH ARTHURIAN SAUCE: The London Broil was marinated with fresh lemon juice, soy sauce, Worcestershire, garlic, shallots, and onions. It was perfect!
  • ROASTED ASPARAGUS WITH BALSAMIC GLAZE and GARLIC MASHED POTATOES: classic accompaniments. The potatoes were creamy and garlicky! The fun twist here is the garlic is cooked in vermouth for an extra layer of flavor.

The Souffle Was To Die For!

  • GRAND MARNIER SOUFFLE: The grand finale! Chocolate Grand Marnier Soufflé was to die for! This recipe is all about time (it takes an hour to bake), patience (there are lots of steps), and attention to detail. Marci guided us through each step – from properly cracking the eggs to separating the egg whites and beating them until foamy. We also learned how to melt chocolate the proper way (always use the best quality chocolate you can find!) She kept saying “Don’t be afraid. Get into it” as I was cautiously mixing the egg whites with the chocolate mixture. And “never apologize in the kitchen”. Good rules to live by. When the gorgeous soufflé came out of the oven, we all “ooh” and “aahed” and took pictures. Marci included!
Downton Abbey: A New Era inspired menu at Truffles and Trifles Cooking School in Orlando with Marci Arthur
Marci gives us a smiling nod of approval as the souffle comes out of the oven and gets topped with powdered sugar. It was amazing!

Downton Abbey: A New Era Inspired Cocktail

AMC Theater’s MacGuffin’s Bar created a Downton-inspired cocktail: The Downton Fizz, available in select theaters. It combines Hendrick’s Gin, Chambord, fresh lemon, club soda and agave nectar for a refreshing cocktail I can imagine The Crawleys sipping during summers on the French Riviera. I will be trying the recipe at home!

Downton Fizz at AMC Theaters

Travel Inspiration: Highclere Castle and South of France

“Do I look like a woman who would turn down a villa in the south of France?”

Violet Crawley, The Dowager Countess (Dame Maggie Smith)
Photo courtesy of Focus Features

Like the show, the movie Downton Abbey: A New Era is escapist fun. It is guaranteed to inspire wanderlust. Pack your designer bags and escape to a villa in the South of France. Or go to the original site that inspired it all, the majestic Highclere Castle in Hampshire, England.

A visit to Highclere Castle – the fictional Downton Abbey – has been on my travel bucket list ever since I first saw the opening credits scene with the unmistakable theme song. They are back to opening to the public and hosting tours and events after the pandemic. A scene in the film has Mr. Carson alluding to the ghastly disaster of opening to the public to raise funds. So tongue in cheek.

Photo courtesy of Highclere Castle

Follow their account on  Instagram and Lady Carnarvon’s Blog and you’ll get a ton of behind-the-scenes videos and posts about daily life at this historic property from the owner, Lady Carnarvon herself. I discovered it during the pandemic when everything was closed and it was great entertainment. Castle Tours and Afternoon Tea are held regularly. Special events take place throughout the year. “Experience the Magic of the Movies” will be on September 10 and 11, 2022. You can even stay on property at one of two refurbished lodges.

Downton Abbey: A New Era inspired cooking class at Truffles and Trifles in Orlando
Get your bags! We’re going to Downton Abbey!

Follow Downton Abbey: A New Era on Social

  • Website: https://www.focusfeatures.com/downton-abbey-a-new-era/
  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DowntonAbbey
  • Twitter: https://twitter.com/DowntonAbbey
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/downtonabbey_official/
  • #DowntonAbbey

For More Information on Truffles and Trifles Cooking School in Orlando:

  • Located in College Park at 711 W Smith St, Orlando, FL 32804
  • Website: https://trufflesandtrifles.com
  • Facebook
  • Instagram: @TrufflesanTrifles

I hope you’re inspired to go see Downton Abbey: A New Era in theaters now, host a Downton-inspired dinner for family and friends, take a trip to visit Highclere Castle, and attend Truffles and Trifles Cooking School in Orlando to meet our very own fascinating lady Marci Arthur. Don’t put it off until someday. Go #MakeSomedayHappen one delicious bite, sip and trip at a time.

Cheers!

Go Epicurista

Disclosure: I have been hosted as a media guest for promotional purposes. I am under no obligation to share this post. As always, all opinions are my own. I only share with you products and experiences I love to inspire you to safely get together with family and friends, celebrate life, and go #MakeSomedayHappen one delicious bite, sip, and trip at a time!  You can read more about my guidelines in 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
✨ Miso Black Cod, yuzu air, pickled cauliflower 
✨ Togarashi Fries & Kimchi Brussels
✨ Dessert: Yuzu Curd and Chocolate in a Cup
☕️ “Where The Cloud Ends” Zero-Proof espresso martini with Yuzu Tonic, Lemon Cordial, Espresso, 0% Coffee Liquor
💜 The lobby decor with lavender and green touches was dreamy.
🧺 They have a Laundry Museum! 
📕 The Book Room features incredible books. The giant picture book requires gloves to review as it is one of a few in the world! 
The hotel is focused on wellness and offers Wellness Suites completely equipped with a full gym! 
Make plans to dine at @saltandthecellarbyakiraback and stay at @ettehotel and GO #MakeSomedayHappen
(Hosted) #GoEpicOrlando #ettehotel #saltandthecellarbyakiraback #experiencekissimmee #LoveOrlando
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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. 
Omakase menu changes regularly but always features the five primary cooking techniques (grilling, steaming, frying, simmering, and raw) using local and imported ingredients, in-house dry-aged fish, and binchotan charcoal-fired dishes. Everything is prepared right in front of you for an immersive experience.
And, Don’t miss the fun cocktails! I loved “That Old Pizza Hut” was like an orange creamsicle with Suntory Toki Whiskey served in a Pizza Hut cup! 
Make reservations and go check this Orlando restaurant off your bucket list.
Thank you Chef Lewis and Mai for your outstanding hospitality. I’ll be coming back soon!
(Hosted) #GoEpicOrlando #LoveOrlando #omakase
Hello 2023! Why start the year on a diet? My new y Hello 2023! Why start the year on a diet? My new year’s resolution is to focus on self-care.  Eating healthy and exercising, sure. But also treating myself to more @gideonsbakehouse cookies, cakes & cold brews. Who’s with me? What will you treat yourself with this year?
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This was my last purchase of 12/31/22... I wanted to start 2023 on a sweet note!
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I love Progressive Dining and Disney Springs has plenty of options. We just get a spot at the bar and order a drink and a fun bite. Then move on to the next spot. So easy! No reservations required! 
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Steak Skewers
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Great entertainment! 
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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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@edoboy Orlando’s first standing sushi bar! 
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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 
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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.
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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
🥄 HUMBA Berkshire pork belly, brown butter seminole squash puree, sweet potato greens
fourth wave | MATAMIS
🥄 UBE FLAN egg yolk flan, toasted coconut, citrus
🥄SUMAN MALAGKIT glutinous rice cake in banana leaves, coconut caramel
🥄MANGO ICE CREAM BY SAMPAGUITA & latik URARO COOKIE arrowroot cookie
🥂 Don’t miss the cocktails & wine pairings!
➡️ Add Kaya to your list!  Reservations required
#MakeSomedayHappen
My prediction is Chef Lo will be winning another Michelin Star at Kaya! 
Thank you Lo, Jami & team! You rock! (that dance was perfect! 😜)
#GoEpicOrlando
2022 in Review - Favorite Revamp of a Classic: T 2022 in Review - Favorite Revamp of a Classic: 
The Venetian Chop House Lobster Bisque @cariberoyaleorlando
Longtime fans of The Venetian Chop House, Caribe Royale Orlando’s on-property fine-dining restaurant, can rest assured that the reimagined menu of this classic Orlando restaurant still includes their fantastic Lobster Bisque. 
It’s been on the menu for over 15 years! I loved the creamy, decadent soup served with chunks of lobster meat, topped with a lattice puff pastry dome for a more elevated and stunning presentation at the table.
The menu by Chef David Hackett is a journey through fine Italian Steakhouse cuisine. You can enjoy classic steakhouse specialties (Hungry for a 36 oz Tomahawk?) together with finer dining Italian entrees such as an enormous Chicken Parmigiana, perfectly crusted and crispy and pasta dishes beautifully garnished such as the Carbonara topped with ricotta cream and delicate herb olive oil pearls.
Of course, you must start the evening with craft cocktails at their new Intimate Bar and end with another tableside showstopper, the Ultimate Chocolate Sphere dessert!
>> If you want to read more about the new menu, @tastecooksip and I wrote a guest post for the resort’s website: “The Must Try Guide To The New Venetian Chop House Menu”
Read it here (link in stories): https://www.cariberoyale.com/blog/must-try-guide-to-the-new-venetian-chop-house-menu
>> Looking for New Year’s Eve Plans?  The Venetian Chop House will offer a celebratory 6-course chef-driven prix-fixe menu including an amuse-bouche, choice of soup (that gorgeous Lobster Bisque!) and salad, choice of entrée — wagyu beef tenderloin, porchetta or pesto baked king salmon — plus a few delicious accompaniments, and choice of delicate desserts. $130pp++ / Reservations: 407-238-8060
#MakeSomedayHappen
#GoEpicOrlando #CaribeRoyaleOrlando #2022Review
2022 Review: Best Sunset - Caribbean Cruise / Atla 2022 Review: Best Sunset - Caribbean Cruise / Atlantic Ocean onboard @norwegiancruiseline Prima
🌅 Sunsets at sea are my absolute favorite! How about you?
One of my favorite travel experiences of 2022 was the #NorwegianPrima inaugural sailing with @thetravelbite 
It was a short 3 days but I loved the new ship design, the food and all the amenities. I’m definitely planning another NCL cruise in 2023! 
#MakeSomedayHappen 
#GoEpicCruise #caribbeancruise #EpicSunset #norwegiancruiseline
2022 Review: The Best View in Orlando + The Best G 2022 Review: The Best View in Orlando + The Best Gin Tonic in Orlando = Capa at @fsorlando 
📍 The view from the 17th floor of Four Seasons Orlando Resort, Michelin star Capa Steakhouse is spectacular! You can see the Walt Disney World Resort, epic sunsets & fireworks. 
🍸 For GT fans in Orlando, don’t miss the Capa GinTonic made with Coarunn Gin & Fever Tree Mediterranean Tonic. It’s colorful garnishes: Gala Apple, Juniper, Key Lime, & Botanicals take it next level! 
Cheers to 2022 and an even better 2023! 🥂
#MakeSomedayHappen 
#GoEpicOrlando #FSTaste #FiveDiamondOrlando #LoveOrlando #MichelinGuideFL
“Ooooh I like it!” - Merry Xmas! I hope you go “Ooooh I like it!” - Merry Xmas! I hope you got to unwrap delicious treats today, and more importantly that you got to share a special time with loved ones.
I got to enjoy my favorite local-made cookies from @GideonsBakehouse 
In order of appearance:
🍪 The Original Chocolate Chip
🍪 December special: Kris Kringle White Chocolate Coffee Bean - my favorite!
🍪 Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
🍪 December special: Krampus Dark Chocolate Mint
🍰 December special: Krampus Snack Cake - Chocolate Cake with Andes Mint Buttercream
>> Hurry if you want to try the December limited-time flavors! They are all so yummy!
I missed my all-time favorite coffee cake cookie so I may have to go back this week! LOL!
Happy Holidays! 
Gideon’s is located at @disneysprings and @eastendmkt
#MakeSomedayHappen #GoEpicOrlando #GideonsBakehouse #DisneySprings
“Merry Christmas Everybody!”🎄 We spent a b “Merry Christmas Everybody!”🎄
We spent a beautifully chilly and sunny Christmas Eve morning at @disneysprings. So fun & deliciously festive! (Surprisingly not too crowded but we were there early)
Here’s all we did & ate! 
1) Breakfast at @everglazed_fl - 
🍩 Holiday Lights Glazed Donut (to match my Xmas turtleneck!) 
🐓 Funky Chicken BBQ sandwich - my favorite! 
2) Put our name on the Virtual Queue at @gideonsbakehouse (90 min quoted, got text to return at 60 min, waited in actual queue 15 min!) The staff at Gideon’s is 💯 
3) Relaxed & got warm at @Starbucks (while we waited for Gideon’s)
☕️ Caramel Macchiato 
4) Gideon’s Bakehouse: picked up treats for Xmas dinner
🍪 December specials: Kris Kringle White Chocolate Coffee Bean, Krampus Dark Chocolate Mint, Chocolate Chip Banana Bread, Coffee Cake
🍰 Krampus Snack Cakes
☕️ Peanut Butter Cold Brew (the chilly 39F temp didn’t keep me from this favorite!)
🎄 Leisurely stroll around Tree Trail to see all the beautifully decorated themed Xmas trees - loved the Mickey & Minnie tree!
🎁 Window Shopping & Browsed The World Of Disney merchandise shop - lots of last minute Xmas shopping going on! 🤣
After a great morning, I’m home cooking for tonight’s dinner. I hope you’ve made the best of this arctic chilly day. Feely very grateful for the blessings we enjoy. 
Happy Christmas! 🎄 
#MakeSomedayHappen #GoEpicOrlando #GoEpicDisney #DisneySprings
This audio cracked me up! 🤣 But it seriously re This audio cracked me up! 🤣 But it seriously reminded me of all the times I take video over and over (and over) again - Mostly because I’m making weird faces or I don’t like the angle, or I feel like I look fat or… you name it! 🫣 
There are a lot more fails than wins when you scroll my camera roll, and which never make it to the curated IG feed. (In this video, I didn’t like how I was chewing because the cookie was super gooey so it stuck to my teeth!🤣)
We’re so often reminded, nothing is as perfect as it seems on social media, but it bears repeating. You never know what’s going on behind the scenes. Please spread kindness, compassion, and joy with everyone you see - online and IRL 💕
While I will never share something on my feed I don’t wholeheartedly recommend, I must share that I’m not always having ALL the “fun” you see. It’s work to get video and photos and make sure you get everything there is to share. To think of creative posts ideas and offer something unique and different. No complaints, because I do love it, but it’s still work. It’s work to edit photos & videos, find the right audio, research, write the caption and post at the right time. Creating content that provides value is a full time job. Many creators burn out, I’ve been there. We often ask ourselves why we do it.
If you’ve read this far, THANK YOU! I appreciate you. With dwindling views and algorithm changes, IG is not as fun as it once was. I’ve enjoyed nearly 9 years of sharing my favorite bucket list restaurants & events in Orlando and around the world with you. And I hope to continue to bring you a little bit of inspiration to go #MakeSomedayHappen one delicious bite, sip and trip at a time in the new year! 💕 
Oh BTW, commenting, saving & sharing posts you like is always so appreciated. It’s the encouragement we as creators need to continue to do what we do. 💕
🎄Wishing you a warm, joyful and delicious holiday! 
📍 Check out @learnlakenona Oh, What Fun! Holiday Festival. It is free and fun for everyone! And that Grinch Cookie paired with Hot Chocolate spiked with Bailey’s was indeed a delicious treat!! (See my previous post for details) 
#GoEpicOrlando #HolidaysinOrlando
OH, WHAT FUN! We spent a fun holiday themed evenin OH, WHAT FUN! We spent a fun holiday themed evening in Lake Nona last night! Their Holiday Festival is in full swing and fun for the entire family! 
Oh, What Fun! makes the holidays magical, featuring: 
🎄 Beautiful lights & holiday decorations
🎁 Holiday Market featuring local vendors & artisans for one-of-a-kind gifts
❄️ Nightly Snowfalls
📷 Photo Ops
🎄 Live entertainment including a holiday cirque show & professional carolers 
🎅 Santa’s Cottage (reservations required) 
🎶 Live Music at Boxi Park & Town Center including the Hollywood Holidays Band
🍴 Lots of Dining Options: Great pizza, wings & craft beer at @parkpizzalakenona, to fancy small plates at @chromalakenona a variety of foods at @boxiparklakenona - we had Lobster Fries & Fried Shrimp! 
🍪 Holiday Cookies, Treats & Beverages! I loved the “Grinch” chocolate mint chip cookie paired with Hot Chocolate & Bailey’s 
🌊 @lakenonawavehotel Fa La La Bar featuring holiday cocktails 
Events this weekend: 
🐩 pet parade & costume contest (Saturday), 
🎄Christmas Creatures live animal encounter (Sunday),
🕎 Hannukah Celebration (Sunday Evening)
📍 Lake Nona Town Center
🗓️ Thursday - Sunday
🎟️ Admission is free 
For more information, visit @learnlakenona 
#MakeSomedayHappen 
(Media Invite) #GoEpicOrlando #LearnLakeNona
Favorite Sunday Brunch & Coffee spot in Portland, Favorite Sunday Brunch & Coffee spot in Portland, Oregon: @ProudMaryUSA
We’ve been fans of this Aussie cafe since owners Nolan & Shari opened in 2017. Super nice people! 
🥑 I always order the Avo Toast - one of the best anywhere! But on this last visit I felt like trying their new menu and the green shakshuka did not disappoint. So. Much. Flavor!!! 
☕️ Their coffee program is amazing! We ordered one of their deluxe pour overs and it was a process. From the proper grinding of the beans to the filters and the water used, to giving you a card with the story from the grower. It was fun to watch! 
Here’s what we ordered: 
☕️ Flat White 
☕️ Deluxe Pour Over: INDONESIA
4th Place Cup Of Excellence- IJEN LESTARI
Black cherry, grape, cola, & clove
🍳 green shakshuka: harissa labneh, dukkah, two poached eggs, toast + side of hash browns with their epic house hot sauce! Must Eat! 
🍜 noodle bowl: warm soba noodles, fried tofu, tea egg, avocado, green onion, daikon radish, togarashi
📍 2012 NE Alberta St. Portland, Oregon
Add Proud Mary to your #PDX list! 
#MakeSomedayHappen 
#GoEpicPDX #GoEpicOregon #SundayBrunch
Hey Orlando Foodies, a culinary tour of @waldorfor Hey Orlando Foodies, a culinary tour of @waldorforlando & @signiabonnetcreek Bonnet Creek Resort is a Must Do! 
🍽️ Epicurious Sip & Savor event is this Friday December 9 from 7-11 pm, Indulge in a sumptuous showcase of 35 food & beverage tastings inspired by the renowned chefs of Waldorf Astoria Orlando and Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek.
Visit waldorfastoriaorlando.com/epicurious
If you miss this event, simply plan a foodie weekend and let your taste buds lead the way through the fantastic restaurants of this gorgeous resort, including famed Bull & Bear, La Luce, & Zeta Asia
Say Hi to their epic culinary team! 
👨🏼‍🍳 Bernard Fiemeyer, Complex Executive Chef @chefbernard7 
👨🏼‍🍳 Jeremy Gibboney, Executive Sous Chef, Waldorf Astoria Orlando @chefjeremy814 
👨🏼‍🍳 Dannilo Zapatel Herrera, Executive Sous Chef, Signia by Hilton Orlando @dannilosignia 
👨🏼‍🍳 Franck Riflaud, Complex Executive Pastry Chef @chocolatguimauve 
👨🏼‍🍳 Alberto Navarrete Arias, Chef D’Cuisine, La Luce @alberto.navarretearias 
👨🏼‍🍳 Juan Suarez, Chef D’Cuisine, Bull & Bear @chefjoju_su 
👨🏼‍🍳 Jesus Pinto, Chef Tournant, Zeta Asia
@jesuspinto0707 
🥇 Congrats again to Executive Chef Bernard Fiemeyer on receiving the prestigious title of Maître Cuisinier de France. His passion combined with classical French training and a flair for international cooking sets him apart as Orlando’s only Master Chef of France! 🥂
Go #MakeSomedayHappen 
Hosted #GoEpicOrlando #WaldorfOrlando #SigniaBonnetCreek
🎉My favorite fancy donut shop in PDX - @bluesta 🎉My favorite fancy donut shop in PDX - @bluestardonuts - is celebrating its 10th Anniversary! 🎉 I got the chance to meet rockstar Pastry Chef Stephanie Thornton and totally fangirl over her EPIC “Once-in-a-Decade” Donut!  Guaranteed it will blow your mind! 
✨ 18-hour brioche made with vanilla & strawberry butter! 
✨Filled with strawberry jam
✨Dipped in yuzu-strawberry glaze -  the most incredible glacage!
✨Topped with piped mascarpone-vanilla whip, chocolate cocoa nibs, & gold dust! Oh my!
🥂Perfectly paired with a mini bottle of champagne!
It’s only available THIS WEEK as part of their 10th Anniversary celebration!
👉🏼 Pro-Foodie-Travel-Tip: When visiting Portland, Oregon, DO NOT MISS a stop at Blue Star Donuts. These “Donuts for Grown Ups” are the best in town!
🙏 *I’m begging @chefstephaniethornton for an Orlando location someday!  #MakeSomedayHappen 😉 
🎉 Happy Anniversary and Congrats Blue Star Donuts team. Thanks for letting me crash your party! 
#GoEpicPDX #GoEpicOregon #bestdonutsintheworld #BlueStarDonut
Are You Having Any Fun? We sure did on @norwegianc Are You Having Any Fun? We sure did on @norwegiancruiseline newest ship PRIMA!
Best Thing I Ate on #NorwegianPrima - Dessert Edition: 
🍰 Pastel de Tres Leche with Coconut Cream 
🍩 Churros with Dulce de Leche Caramel 
📍 Los Lobos Mexican Restaurant 
@thetravelbite and I were stuffed after our 2nd dinner of the night (🫣) but we had to get dessert so we ordered the Tres Leches Cake to share. I never say no to dessert!
We said we’d only have one bite…
* We finished the whole thing! 🤦🏻‍♀️🤣
Then… wait for it! 
We saw the Churros Tower at the table next to us and couldn’t resist. We did it for the Gram! I could have drank that Dulce de Leche sauce! 
Los Lobos is one of several specialty dining restaurants you can book onboard, and the biggest surprise. Much more than tacos, it was a more elevated experience. One of our favorite dinners onboard. The bonus we got to sit outdoors and dine with the sounds of the ocean. 🌊 
You gotta have fun! Always order two desserts!
#MakeSomedayHappen 
#GoEpicCruise #TasteNorwegian #CruiseNorwegian
Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I wish you a beautifu Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I wish you a beautiful day of sharing great food and wine with family and friends. Grateful for all the little things and most importantly all the wonderful people in my life. 💕
🍁 It’s the unofficial last day of fall! 🍂Enjoy pumpkin everything today…. Tomorrow Christmas Season “officially” begins…🎄
Which camp are you in?
🦃 -🎄”Xmas comes after Thanksgiving” & you’ll set up your Xmas tree this weekend
OR
🎃- 🎄”Xmas after Halloween” & your Xmas tree is already up
I’ve always loved Thanksgiving - a day centered around spending time with loved ones and sharing entirely too much food. So I’m in the “Xmas after Thanksgiving” camp. But if you’re excited for Christmas and want to get 2 months out of all the decorations, I get it if your tree is up already.
Enjoy the season and all the little things that make you happy. Cheers! 🥂
Caffeinated: Morning, Noon & Night - At Sea! ☕️ This coffee lover enjoyed Shaken Espresso in the morning with a great ocean view, Nitro from a Beach Cart and a fantastic sustainable Espresso Martini on @norwegiancruiseline newest ship #NorwegianPrima. The gorgeous ocean views, and sunsets were the most relaxing pairing. 
☕️ Starbucks at Indulge Food Hall was a great spot for breakfast. Full Starbucks menu including our favorite Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso with Oat Milk, you can’t beat the shorter lines than the second location in the atrium & fun swinging chairs on the deck. 
⛱️ Starbucks Cart at NCL private island Stirrup Cay served Nitro Cold Brew all day! 
🥃 Metropolitan Bar’s Café Replay - think an elevated espresso martini - made with Avorza Ultra Premium Organic vodka, Angostura bitters, Frangelico, spent coffee ground cordial, pineapple juice was so inventive. I enjoyed chatting with Clarence, resident mixologist about the full list of sustainable cocktails made from discarded food products.
Are you a coffee fanatic? Which coffee experience would you choose?
☕️ Happy #NationalEspressoDay ☕️
Thank you to my coffee-loving travel buddy @thetravelbite for discovering the short line Starbucks on our first morning! 
Media Hosted #GoEpicCruise #TasteNorwegian #CruiseNorwegian #Espresso #CoffeeLover
Do Not Disturb. Currently dreaming of my next crui Do Not Disturb. Currently dreaming of my next cruise vacation! Do you love cruising?
I had the awesome opportunity to sail #NorwegianPrima on its inaugural sailing from Port of Miami this week and it was fabulous! Thank you @norwegiancruiseline and @thetravelbite 🎉
PRIMA, first in its class, was gorgeous! Loved the modern design, the artwork, the shows, and all the fun spaces to relax and hangout throughout the ship. I was so impressed with the food and beverage program, the new food hall concept, all the options for freestyle dining, and the sustainable cocktails. 
If you’re looking for a wonderful foodie cruise vacation, check out Norwegian Prima. There are some great Black Friday deals happening right now. Book it! 
Nothing better than your first cocktail on deck… the Miami skyline is always gorgeous at sunset. BTW this was one of my favorite cocktails - La Madrina. An Aperol Spritz taken to the next level: Avorza Ultra Premium Organic vodka, Aperol, strawberry and orange oleo, lime juice, fresh lime, ginger beer. Fantastic! 
Go #MakeSomedayHappen 
Hosted #GoEpicCruise #CruiseNorwegian #cruiselife #nclprima
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