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Easy Entertaining: Irish Dinner Recipes from Raglan Road Kevin Dundon

By Christina Thomas 15 Comments

Easy Entertaining: Irish Dinner Recipes from Raglan Road Chef Kevin Dundon with www.goepicurista.com

Chef Kevin Dundon of Raglan Road presents an inventive gourmet Irish Dinner to kick off 10 year Anniversary Celebration

Raglan Road Irish Pub in Orlando is celebrating a big birthday this year and those Irish lads sure know how to celebrate! In honor of their 10th anniversary, the authentic Irish eatery owned and operated by Irish partners Paul Nolan, John Cooke and celebrity chef Kevin Dundon – known for his five-star hotel and cookery school in Ireland and his award-winning PBS and Create TV cooking series – are hosting various events throughout the year culminating in a special Irish dinner this October. The Downtown Disney restaurant features traditional Irish dishes and new creations with a modern twist. Although the atmosphere and menu is casual and relaxed, when Chef Dundon hosts a special event, he really knows how to bring the WOW factor all the way from Ireland!

Easy Entertaining: Irish Dinner Recipes from Raglan Road Chef Kevin Dundon with www.goepicurista.com

The Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival kicked off with an Irish Feast!

Last week, I was a guest at a special demonstration with Chef Kevin Dundon as he introduced us to modern variations of traditional Irish dinner favorites. The event which kicked off their Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival and their 10 Year Anniversary celebration, was held in the main dining room of the restaurant, with its warm interior made of aged walnut and mahogany woods from old Irish bars and churches, the bars and fixtures were made in Ireland and shipped to Orlando. How is that for an authentic Irish Pub? Although the place is quite big, in part to accommodate the large volume of guests that visit on a daily basis, it still has an inviting and comfortable feel. This is not your typical Disney themed restaurant. Yes, you will find a souvenir shop with the required t-shirts and hats, yet right next to those you will find Chef Kevind Dundon’s cookbooks and fresh made glazes, jams and sauces from the Raglan Road kitchen so you can take the experience home.

Easy Entertaining: Irish Dinner Recipes from Raglan Road Chef Kevin Dundon with www.goepicurista.com

Take a little bit of the Irish home with you!

I am a firm believer that food has the ability to inspire your travels and your travels have the ability to inspire your food. I love being able to bring home some fun cooking ingredients to spark the flavor memories. I was happy to add Kevin Dundon’s Back to Basics Cookbook to my extensive cookbook collection (addiction) which I am certain will further inspire dreams of Ireland.

Easy Entertaining: Irish Dinner Recipes from Raglan Road Chef Kevin Dundon with www.goepicurista.com

Kevin Dundon Back To Basics, the newest addition to my cookbook addiction! I think this is #251 but who’s counting?

Raglan Road was gracious to provide recipes for each dish we sampled during this amazing Irish feast and I’m happy to share them with you, to inspire your very own fancy Irish Dinner. These recipes are a bit more involved than my usual Easy Entertaining recipes, however you will find that although there are many steps and components involved in these dishes, the ingredients and preparations are simple and approachable. Dundon’s philosophy to use high quality ingredients and then letting their flavors shine through by not fussing too much with their preparation is truly reflective in this menu. The best advice he gives is buy high quality locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.

Irish Dinner Four Course Menu


All recipes courtesy of Raglan Road

Coquille St. Jacques Scallops with Mornay Sauce Recipe


Our first course was so ridiculously good I was only left wishing there were more scallops on the plate. Chef Dundon lightly seasoned the large scallops with salt and pepper and seared them in a hot pan to a beautiful slight golden color. The rich Mornay sauce was perfectly creamy and small dollops of mashed potatoes were just enough to give the dish a bit more substance. Paired beautifully with Sterling Napa Sauvignon Blanc, which is lightly oaked, and was both crisp and refreshing as you expect from a Sauvignon Blanc, but also showed a bit more body and a creamy mouth-feel to contrast the scallops.

Easy Entertaining: Irish Dinner Recipes from Raglan Road Chef Kevin Dundon with www.goepicurista.com

TO SERVE:
Serves 4
20 oz Mashed Potatoes
6 oz Mornay Sauce
4 ea Seared Scallops
As needed Micro greens for garnish

    ^ Fill a piping bag with mashed potatoes and gently pipe them into a small bowl. About 5 oz.
    ^ Add 1 seared scallop per bowl
    ^ Lastly, top each bowl with 1.5 oz of Mornay sauce and garnish with fresh micro greens

MORNAY SAUCE
2 tbs Butter
3 tbs AP Flour
2 cups Milk
Pinch Salt
Pinch Pepper
3/4 cup Grated Gruyere Cheese
1 ea Egg

    ^ Melt butter in a heavy-based saucepan over low heat
    ^ Sprinkle flour and stir with a balloon whisk
    ^ Cook gently for 2 minutes, until the roux is off-white in color
    ^ Take care not to overcook it as this will make the sauce discolored
    ^ Slowly pour the milk on to the roux and increase heat to medium, whisking constantly until it comes to a boil
    ^ Season with salt and pepper and cook for a further 6-8 minutes to ensure the flour is cooked through
    ^ Remove from the heat and add in the Gruyere cheese and egg
    ^ Stir until fully incorporated

SCALLOPS
4 ea Large Scallops
1 oz Oil
1 oz Lemon
Pinch Salt
Pinch Pepper

    ^ Lightly season the scallops with salt and pepper
    ^ In a hot pan, add the oil
    ^ Lightly place the scallops in the pan and sear on both sides for approximately 1.5 minutes each side for a medium rare-medium scallop
    ^ Remove from heat and deglaze pan with a splash of lemon juice

Easy Entertaining: Irish Dinner Recipes from Raglan Road Chef Kevin Dundon with www.goepicurista.com

MASHED POTATOES
20 oz Potatoes
Pinch Pepper
Pinch Salt
8 tsp Heavy Cream
8 tsp Butter

    ^ Steam the potatoes for 35 minutes ensuring they are all the same size. When cooked, pass through a potato mill.
    ^ In a pan, melt your 8 tsp of butter, when melted add in the 8 tsp cream.
    ^ Bring to a boil.
    ^ In the mixer, using the paddle, mix your wet ingredients and your potatoes together until completely incorporated.
    ^ Add the salt and pepper to taste.

The smell as Kevin Dundon demoed this dish had me drooling and then this plate showed up! Oh my! Scallops with Pomme Purée and Mornay Gratin was so amazing I wish there were more scallops on the plate! @raglanroadpub #GOIrish #RaglanRoad #TravelThroughFood

A photo posted by Christina Thomas (@goepicurista) on Mar 11, 2015 at 11:01am PDT

Duet of Tomato Soup and Champagne Splashed Oyster Recipe


The Tomato Gin Soup with Champagne Splashed Oyster paired with Chandon Brut bubbles was beautifully simple and quite fancy. Definitely not what I expected to be eating at an Irish pub. The soup had a vibrant fresh tomato taste made decadent by the copious amounts of butter the chef added to the pot. He did not hold back for a fantastic result. It was the kind of soup you want to curl up on your couch and consume on a cold rainy day.

Chef Dundon’s Easy Entertaining Tip: Serve soup in a small espresso cup to guests as they arrive at your home to allow you more time to prepare the rest of the meal.

Easy Entertaining: Irish Dinner Recipes from Raglan Road Chef Kevin Dundon with www.goepicurista.com

TOMATO GIN SOUP
2 oz Olive Oil
2 oz Butter
1 ea Yellow Onion (diced)
2 cloves Garlic (chopped)
2 1/4 lb Roma or Plum Tomatoes, ripe, cut in half
1/2 cup Gin
1 qt Vegetable Stock
1 cup Heavy Cream
to taste salt and pepper

    ^ Heat the oil lightly
    ^ Add in the onions and cook over medium heat until translucent
    ^ Add in the garlic and sweat for about 2 minutes
    ^ Add in the tomatoes and a pinch of salt and pepper
    ^ Cook for 6 minutes stirring
    ^ Deglaze with gin: cook stirring for about 7 minutes
    ^ Add in the stock, bring to a boil, lower to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes until tomatoes are tender and broken up
    ^ Add in the heavy cream, bring to a boil and cook for 8 minutes
    ^ Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper
    ^ Remove from the fire and puree with a hand blender until smooth and then strain
    ^ Serve hot, garnish with Creme Fraiche, crostini and snipped chives

CHAMPAGNE SPLASHED OYSTER
4 ea Oysters
4 tsp Champagne

    ^ Scrub, rinse and shuck oysters
    ^ Once clean, splash about 1 tsp of champagne onto each oyster

Roast Rack of Lamb in Irish Stew Consomme Recipe


Lamb can be tricky. Often I’ve heard friends say they don’t like lamb, however, I suspect what they didn’t like was the type of lamb and preparation. Very easily it can be tough or taste too gamey. The secret here is to buy it from a quality butcher. Where the lamb comes from and how it is raised will affect its flavor. New Zealand lamb tends to be sweeter, Canadian and Australian lamb more buttery. Lamb from Colorado most closely resembles lamb from Ireland with a milder, less gamey flavor. How you cook it also plays a big role. While some meats are best cooked medium rare, lamb is best at medium temperature. The lamb chop served at Raglan Road was tender, perfectly cooked and the flavors were brought to life by the broth.

Easy Entertaining: Irish Dinner Recipes from Raglan Road Kevin Dundon with www.goepicurista.com

Thank you to Amy Recicar of Coastal Wine & Spirits for the wine pairing recommendations and fun facts

The dish was paired with B.V. Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon. Fun fact: Beaulieu Vineyards, built in 1885 is the longest continually operating winery in Napa Valley and the only to legally operate during times of Prohibition. That’s a lot of wine-making experience! The wine’s aromas of black cherry, plum, cinnamon and tobacco and vibrant black fruit flavors with hints of vanilla and mocha added a richness in contrast to the lamb.

Easy Entertaining: Irish Dinner Recipes from Raglan Road Chef Kevin Dundon with www.goepicurista.com

Perfect pairing of B.V. Rutherford Cabernet with Roast Rack of Lamb

ROAST RACK OF LAMB
2.25 lb Scrag end of neck of lamb
2 ea Leeks
2 ea Carrots (roughly chopped)
1 ea Large Onion (finely diced)
2 ea Celery Sticks (roughly chopped)
1 ea Bay Leaf
1 ea Thyme sprig
small handful Flat-Leaf Parsley stalks
a few Black Peppercorns
10-12 oz 2×6 bone best end of lamb
6 oz Small Carrots
10 oz Baby New Potatoes
1 1/4 tsp Olive Oil
Pinch Salt
Pinch Pepper
As needed Fresh Rosemary and thyme sprigs

    ^ Place the neck of the lamb in a large stock pot
    ^ Roughly chop one of the leeks and add with the roughly chopped carrots, half of the onion, the celery, herbs and peppercorns
    ^ Cover with at least 8 cups of cold water
    ^ Bring to a boil
    ^ Season lightly and then simmer gently, uncovered, for about 2 hours until reduced by nearly two-thirds
    ^ You’ll need 2 cups of lovely, sweet stock in total
    ^ Skim off any scum or grease that rises to the surface with a large spoon
    ^ Strain the stock through a fine sieve into a large jug and ideally leave to cool overnight so that you can scrape off any fat that has settled on top
    ^ Preheat oven to 400*
    ^ Season the racks of lamb and place in a small roasting tin
    ^ Roast for 20-25 minutes, or a little longer, depending on how pink you like your lamb
    ^ Remove from the oven and set aside in a warm place to rest for 10-15 minutes
    ^ Meanwhile, peel and shape the small carrots and baby potatoes into neat barrels
    ^ Add to the lamb stock with the remaining onion and bring to a simmer
    ^ Cook gently for 10-15 minutes until the carrots and potatoes are completely tender but are still holding their shape
    ^ Season to taste
    ^ Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in the frying pan
    ^ Cut the remaining leek into julienne (long thin strips) and add to the pan, then saute for 3-4 minutes until softened but not colored
    ^ Season to taste

TO SERVE:

    ^ Carve the rested racks of lamb into chops
    ^ Place the leek julienne in the center of each warmed wide-rimmed serving bowl and spoon around the Irish stew consomme
    ^ Arrange the lamb chops on top of the leeks and garnish with the rosemary and thyme sprigs

Easy Entertaining: Irish Dinner Recipes from Raglan Road Chef Kevin Dundon with www.goepicurista.com

Pimms Knickerbocker Glory Recipe


This dessert combines the flavors of a refreshing Pimms Cocktail with the creaminess and layered look of a Knickerbocker Glory dessert and instead of using ice cream it adds the fancy factor with Vanilla mousse. An amazing blend of flavors and textures with a gourmet twist. To say there was a lot going on in this glass is an understatement, yet, each layer complemented the other beautifully. You had the lemon and Pimms flavored jelly at the bottom with crunchy chunks of apple, grapes, orange and cucumber, topped with vanilla mousse made with mascarpone cheese and heavy cream, then further topped with a cucumber melon foam. As if that was not enough, the dessert was garnished with a pistachio macaron. Perfection!

Easy Entertaining: Irish Dinner Recipes from Raglan Road Chef Kevin Dundon with www.goepicurista.com

TO SERVE:
4 ea Jelly/Fruit filled glasses
4 oz Vanilla Mousse
4 oz Cucumber Melon Foam
4 ea Pistachio Macarons

    ^ In each glass of fruit and jelly, add 1 oz of vanilla mousse
    ^ Add 1 oz cucumber and melon foam
    ^ Top with 1 each pistachio macaron
Easy Entertaining: Irish Dinner Recipes from Raglan Road Chef Kevin Dundon with www.goepicurista.com

This dessert is ready for its close up!

FOR THE JELLY:
2.5 oz Sugar
2 oz Water
1/2 ea Lemon Juice
4 oz Pimms
2.5 cups Fizzy Lemonade (sprite)
6 ea Gelatin sheets

    ^ Bloom in the gelatin on ice water
    ^ In a pan, combine the sugar, water, lemon juice, Pimms and 1/2 lemonade
    ^ Heat and stir until sugar dissolves, remove from the fire
    ^ Squeeze off and add in the gelatin, stir to dissolve
    ^ Add in the remaining lemonade and allow to cool slightly

FOR THE GLASS:
1-2 ea Apples (Parisienne cut)
6 ea Cucumbers (peeled and Parisienne cut) keep the peel
4 ea Grapes (cut in 1/2)
4 ea Orange segments
20 oz Jelly

    ^ Take a cup of the jelly mix, dip in, per glass, 1 each apple ball, cucumber ball, 2 grape halves, 1 orange segment and 1 cucumber peel and set into the bottom of glass
    ^ Place in the cooler and allow to set a for a few minutes
    ^ Pour in the remainder of the jelly mix to cover the fruit
    ^ Place in the cooler to set for at least 4 hours

VANILLA MOUSSE
2 /12 cups Mascarpone Cheese
3 cups Heavy Cream
1/2 cup Egg White
1 tsp Vanilla

    ^ In a chilled bowl of a mixer, combine and whip all ingredients to soft peaks
    ^ Store chilled until ready to use
    * May add a dash of gelatin powder or xantham gum as stabilizer if used hot

CUCUMBER AND MELON FOAM
1 1/2 cups Cucumber Peeled
1 1/2 cups Honeydew peeled and seeded
2 cups Water
1 ea Egg white
2 ea Gelatin sheets bloomed

    ^ Puree the cucumbers with 1/2 of the water
    ^ Puree the honeydew with the remaining 1/2 of the water
    ^ Pass through a fine sieve to get a clear juice, set aside
    ^ Heat up 2 oz of the juice, squeeze off the gelatin and add to the juice
    ^ Stir to dissolve
    ^ Add in the remaining liquid, cool slightly
    ^ Place into a syphon, close the bottle and attach the gas
    ^ Shake and store upside down until ready for use

MACARONS
BATTER
0.7 oz Powdered Sugar
0.47 oz Almond Flour
0.23 oz Pistachios
0.26 oz Egg Whites
0.26 oz Egg Whites (for meringue)
0.7 oz Granulated Sugar
0.26 oz Water
as needed Green coloring

    ^ In a food processor, mix the powdered sugar, almond flour and pistachios
    ^ Then add 0.26 oz of egg whites and mix
    ^ Heat granulated sugar and water until it reaches 226.4*F
    ^ Meanwhile, whip the remaining egg whites with coloring on high speed
    ^ When the syrup reaches 246.2*F, cool down
    ^ Then fold in both mixes
    ^ Sprinkle with pistachios
    ^ Leave at room temperature for 20-40 minutes
    ^ Add to a piping bag and pipe into 1.5 oz balls
    ^ Bake at 302*F for 13-16 minutes

BUTTERCREAM
0.7 oz Unsalted butter (softened)
0.45 oz Powdered Sugar
0.28 oz Almond flour
0.21 oz Pistachios
0.28 oz Pistachio paste

    ^ Whisk the softened butter
    ^ Add in the powdered sugar until incorporated
    ^ Add in the almond flour until incorporated
    ^ Add in the chopped pistachios until incorporated
    ^ Add in pistachio paste until incorporated

PISTACHIO MACARONS
8 ea Macaron Cookies
2 oz Pistachio buttercream

    ^ Once the macarons are cool, take 1 macaron and pipe with 0.5 oz of pistachio buttercream and top with another macaron making a sandwich.
Easy Entertaining: Irish Dinner Recipes from Raglan Road Chef Kevin Dundon with www.goepicurista.com

GO Epicurista & Chef Kevin Dundon at Raglan Road

To the absolute glee of all present (including myself!) Chef Dundon announced during the event a special Master Chef cooking contest he is hosting, where five lucky amateur cooks will be flown, all expenses paid, to his famous abode in Ireland. This is an experience of a lifetime which fueled my dreams to cross off Ireland from my Travel Someday List. Get all the details and enter to win here.

Easy Entertaining: Irish Dinner Recipes from Raglan Road Chef Kevin Dundon with www.goepicurista.com

Chef Kevin Dundon excitedly tells us of the Master Chef Cooking Competition! They are going all out for their 10 yr Celebration!

Are you ready to create your very own special Irish dinner? I guarantee you will be dreaming of traveling to Ireland with this feast and hopefully it will inspire you to enter this fabulous contest! Tell me in the comments below, are you ready to GO to Ireland?

Raglan Road Irish Pub is open for lunch, dinner and late night. Don’t miss their Rollicking Raglan Weekend Brunch. Live music and the Raglan Road Dancers perform daily for a fun, casual, Irish dining experience. If you can’t be in Ireland, this is the next best thing! Raglan Road is located at Downtown Disney, Walt Disney World Resort, 1640 E. Buena Vista Drive, Lake Buena Vista, FL. 407-938-0300.

Cheers!

GO Epicurista

Disclosure: I was a media guest of Raglan Road for this event. No other form of compensation was provided. As always, opinions are my own and I only share with you experiences worth celebrating!

Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant on Urbanspoon

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Filed Under: Easy Entertaining Recipes, Go Travel & Dine Orlando Tagged With: Irish Dinner, Orlando, Raglan Road Irish Pub, recipes, St. Patrick's Day

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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. Gina @ Oaxacaborn says

    03/24/2015 at 10:46 am

    Delicious post! Ireland’s on my travel bucket list, too. 🙂

    Reply
    • Christina Thomas says

      03/24/2015 at 10:52 am

      Thank you! Ireland has been on my bucket list for years but after this meal I was even more inspired! I hope you get to cross it off your list soon!

      Reply
  2. Michelle Snow says

    03/24/2015 at 6:51 am

    The Pimms Knickerbocker Glory looks yummy. It looks like it was an amazing meal. Some posts should come with samples. LOL

    Reply
    • Christina Thomas says

      03/24/2015 at 9:44 am

      It was an incredible meal and I agree with you, I wish posts came with samples! Thanks for checking out the blog!

      Reply
  3. Elena says

    03/23/2015 at 11:04 pm

    That dinner looks like such a good time! Cucumber foam!

    Reply
    • Christina Thomas says

      03/24/2015 at 9:45 am

      The Irish sure know how to have a good time that’s for sure! I loved the cucumber foam on the Kickerbocker Glory. It gave such a unique flavor twist. Thanks for stopping by!

      Reply
  4. Joanie @ ZagLeft says

    03/23/2015 at 11:02 pm

    What a great collection of recipes, I would have loved to have been there! Raglan Road is one of my favorite restaurants in Orlando and we stop in every time we visit Orlando.

    Reply
    • Christina Thomas says

      03/24/2015 at 9:46 am

      Raglan Road is a definite #MustEat in Orlando. It is such a fun place and Chef Dundon really outdoes himself when he does these events. The dishes were all fantastic! Thanks for stopping by GoEpicurista!

      Reply
  5. Christie says

    03/23/2015 at 8:14 pm

    Sounds like a glorious dinner. What a fun evening

    Reply
    • Christina Thomas says

      03/23/2015 at 8:52 pm

      It really was such a fun event which only fueled by dreams to travel to Ireland even more! Thanks for checking out the blog. Cheers!

      Reply
  6. Susan Young says

    03/23/2015 at 7:37 pm

    Geez, I gained 5 pounds just reading these recipes!

    Reply
    • Christina Thomas says

      03/23/2015 at 8:52 pm

      Believe it or not, these recipes are pretty lean, except for the Tomato soup, that one had a lot of butter but oh so good! Thanks for stopping by Go Epicurista!

      Reply
  7. Jeff Wetherington says

    03/23/2015 at 5:55 pm

    Now I’m hungry! Lol, thanks for sharing.

    Reply
    • Christina Thomas says

      03/23/2015 at 8:50 pm

      This menu definitely is hunger inducing! Thanks for stopping by! I hope it inspired your Ireland dreams!

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