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Epic Disney Vegan Feast with Chef TJ

By Christina Thomas 4 Comments

Epic Disney Vegan Feast with Chef TJ review and photos of a surprising plant based multi course menu at Disney Trail's End Restaurant

Surprising Plant Based Multi-Course Menu with Chef TJ, the Most Vegan Friendly Chef in Walt Disney World Resort

If you’re a plant based eater visiting Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, this post is for you. If you’re an omnivore who thinks they would never be satisfied with a plant based menu, this is especially for you too!

Ask around in the vegan community and you’ll find a meal with Chef TJ is on their foodie bucket list. Read on and you’ll see why it was on my bucket list too!

I disclose I do not follow a plant based diet, I’m not vegan or vegetarian, but I do love to try all foods and I especially love vegetables. I was curious if a plant based diet meant less indulgences, especially when on vacation so as soon as I heard about Chef TJ’s multi-course feast I added it to my foodie bucket list (my “someday list”). You know my mission is to Make Someday Happen and that’s exactly what I did.

I discovered that for vegans and vegetarians visiting the Walt Disney World Resort, it involves some stealthy sleuthing to find the best plant based eats. I enlisted my friend Amanda Tinney of VeganDisneyFood.com as my guide. She is an avid foodie who is always on the hunt for the best vegan options around. Amanda told me I would be surprised at Trail’s End Restaurant located in Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground and she was right.

 

All American BBQ Menu at Trail’s End

The first surprise is that the menu at Trail’s End is an “All You Care To Eat” All American BBQ buffet. Overflowing with smoked BBQ pork ribs, fried chicken, carved meats, mac n’ cheese, pizza and so much more, this is a feast! At a glance, I’m thinking there must be a mistake. How could a vegan menu be served here?

 

Epic Disney Vegan Feast with Chef TJ review and photos of a surprising plant based multi course menu at Disney Trail's End Restaurant

 

Looking at this buffet I was not convinced we would have the same level of indulgence with a vegan menu. The fried chicken looked perfectly crispy! Tempting.

Epic Disney Vegan Feast with Chef TJ review and photos of a surprising plant based multi course menu at Disney Trail's End Restaurant

 

The Mac N’ Cheese looked creamy, cheesy and perfect comfort food! Tempting again.

Epic Disney Vegan Feast with Chef TJ review and photos of a surprising plant based multi course menu at Disney Trail's End Restaurant

 

The buffet had scarce pickings for vegans. A few green salads, corn, broccoli and a baked potato bar. This does not scream”indulgent” to me but I will have to wait and see.

 

Epic Disney Vegan Feast with Chef TJ review and photos of a surprising plant based multi course menu at Disney Trail's End Restaurant

 

Giant baked potatoes! Fun but not indulgent.

Epic Disney Vegan Feast with Chef TJ review and photos of a surprising plant based multi course menu at Disney Trail's End Restaurant

 

Amanda told me I could still turn back and simply go for the meat-centric feast in front of me but I was curious (and I’m glad I was.)

 

Here Comes Chef TJ!

Chef TJ Sudiswa arrives at our table, confirms our dietary requests and allergies and whisks us off to the buffet to point out what is vegan on the menu. He is like a god to anyone with a special diet who visits the Walt Disney World Resort. The man is a legend and also incredibly nice and funny. He’s been wowing guests with special diets for years at various WDW resorts and is now at Fort Wilderness Resort taking care of guests at Trail’s End and the Hoop Dee Doo Review Dinner Show. After I experienced his multi-course feast I can see the adoration is well deserved. Course after course, Chef TJ impressed me.

He appears with every course and each time I asked what was in the dish he would tell me with a wink and a smile “It’s a secret.” Of course he disclosed ingredients to ensure that any special diet needs were met but he didn’t share much in terms of preparation or spices used. The food writer in me was left a bit wanting for information. I had to remind myself I wasn’t there for work but I was there simply as a guest to indulge and enjoy. And boy did we ever! I left stuffed, happy and with a newfound appreciation for a plant based menu and the creativity of Chef TJ!

Here’s Chef TJ with Amanda. She even created a special tee shirt to honor him. (You can buy it on her website)

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Where’s Amanda? (@amandatinney) on Aug 16, 2018 at 10:14am PDT

 

9 Courses of Plant Based Indulgence

1st Course: The Buffet

From the buffet, I nibbled on cranberry salad with couscous, cucumber salad,greens with balsamic dressing and marinated mushrooms. I was warned to not fill up here because there would be much more to come. Take this warning seriously. I couldn’t believe how many dishes came next.

 

Epic Disney Vegan Feast with Chef TJ review and photos of a surprising plant based multi course menu at Disney Trail's End Restaurant

2nd Course: The Samosas

A full plate of Potato and Pea Samosas drizzled with curry ketchup and balsamic reduction arrived. The crisp exterior filled with creamy filling and nice chunks of peas and potatoes was absolutely delicious. I could drizzle that curry ketchup on anything. I stopped myself from eating them all but I gladly would have.

 

Epic Disney Vegan Feast with Chef TJ review and photos of a surprising plant based multi course menu at Disney Trail's End Restaurant

3rd Course: The Smoked Showstopper! 

Next was the first showstopper of the night: Smoked Tomato and Watermelon with balsamic and mustard vinaigrette. The beautiful presentation comes covered in a glass dome filled with smoke which imparted an amazing flavor into the tomatoes and watermelon. Oohs and aahs followed as the dome is lifted and the smoke drifts out revealing the colorful treat inside. This is the kind of presentation you expect in a fine dining restaurant. I was impressed.

 

Epic Disney Vegan Feast with Chef TJ review and photos of a surprising plant based multi course menu at Disney Trail's End Restaurant

 

4th Course: Eat Your Veggies Topped With Potato Chips! 

A salad of beets, green beans, carrots and arugula offered a tasty combination of flavors and textures. You need some greens in your life. I think anyone would eat more salad when it’s topped with potato chips!

 

Epic Disney Vegan Feast with Chef TJ review and photos of a surprising plant based multi course menu at Disney Trail's End Restaurant

 

5th Course: Fried Corn! 

Want to take corn on the cob to the next level? Deep fry it, sprinkle with Old Bay Seasoning and drizzle with a sweet sour raspberry sauce and voila! Loved the flavors. Plus it had a bit of popcorn taste that was addictive.

 

Epic Disney Vegan Feast with Chef TJ review and photos of a surprising plant based multi course menu at Disney Trail's End Restaurant

 

6th Course: NACHOS! 

The next course is one that Amanda and most vegan foodies like her who dine with Chef TJ are always raving about. Chef TJ’s NACHOS!

A giant plate of tortilla chips loaded with his house made vegan cheese sauce topped with fried onions, jalapeños, and tomato salsa.  This course convinced me that Vegan did not mean depriving yourself of indulgence. I could eat these nachos on the regular. The cheese sauce is made with coconut milk which gave it a unique flavor but did not taste fake. That is my number one complaint of some of the imitation foods used in plant based diets. These nachos were definitely indulgent!

 

Epic Disney Vegan Feast with Chef TJ review and photos of a surprising plant based multi course menu at Disney Trail's End Restaurant

 

7th Course: Vegetable Soup

The next course was a Tomato Vegetable Soup. It was filled with veggies including edamame and potatoes which I loved. After the heavenly nachos, I wasn’t sure if this soup was meant to bring me back down to reality or provide some much needed balance. I could have skipped this course but the soup was a bit of a cleanser before the main course. I took a few big spoonfuls and was satisfied.

Epic Disney Vegan Feast with Chef TJ review and photos of a surprising plant based multi course menu at Disney Trail's End Restaurant

8th Course: The Entree! 

Can you believe the entree is the eight course? I was stuffed like a giant Tofurky when the beautiful plate of fried tofu, grilled portobello mushrooms, onions, squash, and zucchini served over wild rice pilaf arrived. I am not a tofu fan but this fried version was so well seasoned I happily had a few wedges. The grilled veggies, on the other hand, were absolutely perfect. Nice char, great flavor, and perfect texture – not too mushy or too al dente. This was an entree worthy of this feast.

 

Epic Disney Vegan Feast with Chef TJ review and photos of a surprising plant based multi course menu at Disney Trail's End Restaurant

 

9th Course: Sweet Showstopper! 

For the final course I was not sure I could eat another bite.  Amanda was not kidding when she told me to pace myself. The brownies on the buffet looked yummy, but not vegan, so I happily skipped them in favor of Chef TJ’s final showstopper of the night.

Epic Disney Vegan Feast with Chef TJ review and photos of a surprising plant based multi course menu at Disney Trail's End Restaurant

 

Chef TJ’s Vegan Dessert was a giant tower of skewered strawberries, bananas, vegan chocolate ice cream, vegan ice cream sandwiches all topped with a mound of cotton candy and doused with chocolate sauce. It was a head turner!  The fruit cobbler, brownies and ice cream sundaes on the buffet had nothing on this. An absolutely delicious end to a surprisingly indulgent dinner.

 

Epic Disney Vegan Feast with Chef TJ review and photos of a surprising plant based multi course menu at Disney Trail's End Restaurant

 

I found the best part of Trail’s End Restaurant is that everyone in the family will find something to eat and enjoy, whether you’re an omnivore, vegetarian or vegan. And even if you’re not following a plant based diet, this menu by Chef TJ is worthy of the indulgence. It is definitely not low cal or “diet” food as many would think, it is comfort food and fun!

 

Pre and Post Dinner: Walk, Talk & Cocktails

We parked at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and enjoyed a glass of wine at Territory Lounge. It was the perfect place to get ready for my voyage of plant based food discovery. The design and decor inside the Lodge is a must see!

 

Epic Disney Vegan Feast with Chef TJ review and photos of a surprising plant based multi course menu at Disney Trail's End Restaurant

Epic Disney Vegan Feast with Chef TJ review and photos of a surprising plant based multi course menu at Disney Trail's End Restaurant

 

We walked the trail from Wilderness Lodge to Trail’s End Restaurant for an early dinner. It felt like we were trekking through the woods on an expedition. How appropriate!

Epic Disney Vegan Feast with Chef TJ review and photos of a surprising plant based multi course menu at Disney Trail's End Restaurant

 

We walked around the Tri-Circle-D Farm, saw the beautiful Disney horses and the exhibit which was very interesting. In all my years living in Orlando, I had never been here. Definitely plan extra time to see this.

 

Epic Disney Vegan Feast with Chef TJ review and photos of a surprising plant based multi course menu at Disney Trail's End Restaurant

 

After that incredible 9 course vegan feast, we could have taken the bus back to the lodge but we needed the walk. By this time it was dark and I will admit a bit on the scary side so we walked briskly down the trail.  I then saw the sign warning of alligators and snakes so I will think twice of walking in the dark next time.

 

Epic Disney Vegan Feast with Chef TJ review and photos of a surprising plant based multi course menu at Disney Trail's End Restaurant

 

Our reward was discovering Geyser Point Bar & Grill. We enjoyed a nightcap by the lake and watched the Electric Water Pageant Parade. A perfect way to end a surprisingly delicious evening!

 

Epic Disney Vegan Feast with Chef TJ review and photos of a surprising plant based multi course menu at Disney Trail's End Restaurant

 

Tips To Know Before You Go! 

 

Epic Disney Vegan Feast with Chef TJ review and photos of a surprising plant based multi course menu at Disney Trail's End Restaurant

 

If you want to enjoy this epic plant based feast with Chef TJ, here’s a few things you should know:

  • Trail’s End Restaurant is located in Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground. It is not inside the Wilderness Lodge although you can park and walk from there as we did.
  • How to get there? You can take the boat from Magic Kingdom to the restaurant area, take a Disney bus to Fort Wilderness and then the internal bus to the restaurant or park at the campground and take the bus. Allow yourself plenty of time to get there.
  • A reservation is a must. Trail’s End Restaurant is quite busy for dinner.
  • Be sure to indicate in your reservation that you have a special dietary request for the vegan menu and reconfirm your dietary request with the host upon arrival.
  • Check for Chef TJ’s schedule. It may vary and of course you want to visit when he’s there.
  • After you’re seated, Chef TJ will visit your table and take you on a tour of the buffet to point out the items that are vegan and confirm any other allergies. He oversees each course of your meal and comes out to your table. This is all part of the experience so be patient. He oversees special needs menus in two restaurants. This meal is not one to have if you’re in a hurry. Allow at least 2 hours.
  • The cost of the vegan multi-course menu will be the same as the cost for the buffet. (It was $30 per person plus tax and gratuity but check the website for current pricing.) Trust me, you will be full and it is well worth it. You may even take some of your vegan feast food to-go which is not allowed from the buffet.  That’s a great deal!
  • The menu will vary although you may see some of the same items. Chef TJ is a creative guy so he may change things up from time to time but guaranteed they are always delicious.

Whether you’re following a plant based diet or not, I hope this post gave you a glimpse of the indulgences you can expect for a Disney Vegan Feast with Chef TJ at Walt Disney World Resort.

I especially encourage those who are not on a plant based diet to be curious and go try this menu! It was an absolutely indulgent and surprising experience and one that I would happily go back for again.

Special thank you to Chef TJ and to Amanda of @VeganDisneyFood for being a great guide on this lovely evening of food discovery. Follow her for all the best plant based dishes and treats around Disney parks.

Epic Disney Vegan Feast with Chef TJ review and photos of a surprising plant based multi course menu at Disney Trail's End Restaurant

Me and my plant based foodie Disney guide Amanda Tinney of @VeganDisneyFood

Share this post with your friends and go Make Someday Happen!

Cheers!

Go Epicurista

 

Disclosure: This was not a sponsored dinner and I was under no obligation to write this post. All opinions are always my own. As you know, I only share experiences I love to inspire you to go #MakeSomedayHappen one delicious bite, sip and trip at a time.

 

Epic Disney Vegan Feast with Chef TJ review and photos of a surprising plant based multi course menu at Disney Trail's End Restaurant

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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. Lucy Sevcik says

    06/18/2019 at 11:18 am

    Chef TJ has moved from Fort Wilderness Trails End to Cape May at the Beach Resort. His last day at Trails was Friday, June 14th.

    Reply
    • Christina Thomas says

      06/18/2019 at 9:20 pm

      Oh Wow! I will need to go visit him at Cape May!

      Reply
  2. Paul Lalli says

    10/04/2018 at 12:56 pm

    As a fellow meat eater with a vegetarian wife who has enjoyed a great number of TJ’s creations, I love this post almost as much as I love eating whatever Chef TJ brings to the table. 🙂

    A quick clarification: there is no such thing as “Fort Wilderness Lodge”. There’s Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campgrounds, which is where Trail’s End is located. And separately, there’s also “Disney’s Wilderness Lodge”, which is where the interior shots you posted were taken, as well as the location of the Territory Lounge and Geyser Point bar you mentioned. While they are within walking distance of each other and share part of a name, they are otherwise unrelated.

    Reply
    • Christina Thomas says

      10/04/2018 at 2:16 pm

      Thank you so much for your kind words. I’m glad my post helped relive your wonderful memories of dinners with Chef TJ. Thanks also for the correction on the name of the hotel. I am making that change now. Cheers to many more great meals to come!

      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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#GoEpicOrlando #TheMilkDistrict #SmokeandDonuts #LoveOrlando
“You do not find a happy life, you make it!” “You do not find a happy life, you make it!” 
I spent one of the best days ever at Discovery Cove! It was my first visit to this one-of-a-kind, all-inclusive, tropical day resort in Orlando, and it won’t be my last! I’m planning a return soon because they have a fantastic special happening now! (See below)
Admission includes: 
🍽️ Unlimited Buffet Breakfast, Lunch & Snacks
🍹 Unlimited Beer & Wine, (add the Premium Drink Package for $40!)
🤿 Swim & snorkel with rays & tropical fish
🐦 Hand-feed exotic birds
🏊‍♀️ Drift along the Wind-Away River
🏖️ Relax on sandy beaches
😎 Chill in the sand-bottom pool with drink in hand (we did this most of the day!) it was glorious!
🚿 Wetsuits, masks, snorkel, lockers, & showers 
🐬 Swim with dolphins experience (for additional fee)
Stay tuned for more about the delicious new Caribbean menu and cocktails at Hibiscus Hideaway & Blue Bamboo Bar, all-new food and beverage outlets. I was very impressed with their Food & Beverage program. 
Highly recommend this experience for locals and visitors. The entire day felt like a true vacation! 
💥 Limited time offer: Florida residents save 30% on their 2023 visits and out of state guests save 20% on a Signature Dolphin Swim Package. You can visit anytime in 2023 based on availability but must book by 3/12/23. Options for packages with admission to @seaworldorlando @aquaticaorlando & @bushgardenstampa available 
Go #MakeSomedayHappen 
(hosted) @DiscoveryCove 
#GoEpicOrlando #DiscoveryCove #LoveOrlando
Orlando’s OG Coffee Shop is Back! Where are you Orlando’s OG Coffee Shop is Back! Where are you getting your caffeine & brunch fix this weekend?
@barniescoffeeandtea flagship cafe in Park Avenue, Winter Park has now re-opened with a brighter modern look, new breakfast, lunch & brunch menu, and new coffee blends. Go check it out! 
I was invited to a preview and loved doing a coffee tasting of 4 blends with Christian, Barnie’s head coffee roaster. My favorite was the Guatemala Gehsa with citrus, cocoa nibs and orange blossom notes. We also sampled new menu items. Don’t miss the Shakshuka & the Popovers!
Here’s what we sampled:
☕️ Coffee:
✨Barnie’s Cafe Blend
✨Guatemala Gehsa
✨Birthday Cake Batter (notes of vanilla sprinkles)
✨UCF Pegasus Blend (notes of chocolate & caramel!) yum! 
> I couldn’t resist getting a latte even though it was 6pm! 🤣 Barista Renata did a fab vanilla latte! 
🍳 Breakfast:
✨ Signature Popovers
✨French Toast with fresh truit
✨Shakshuka with poached egg
✨Seasonal Quiche
🥪 Lunch:
✨Cuban Sandwich
✨Roasted BeetSalad
Did you know Barnie’s is Orlando’s original coffee shop? It opened right here in Winter Park in 1980!
Go support local! #MakeSomedayHappen 
#GoEpicOrlando #LoveOrlando #barniescoffeeandtea #orlandocoffee
Hey Orlando Foodies, @orlandocitysc and @orlpride Hey Orlando Foodies, @orlandocitysc and @orlpride games at @exploriastadium just got a whole lot tastier!
Five #OrlandoMade local restaurants are now permanent concessions vendors so you can tame your hunger with the best local tacos, hot dogs, BBQ, Chicken & Burgers in Orlando! 
Thank you Exploria Stadium for inviting me to the media preview. Can’t wait to go cheer on our 2022 US Open Champions at the season opener this Saturday!
Here’s a preview of what we sampled: 
🌮 BLACK ROOSTER TAQUERIA - Chicken Tinga Taco on Flour Tortilla, w. lettuce, radish, cotija cheese, cilantro. Love those tacos! It was nice to see owner Juliana Calloway and Chief Tasting Officer Ryder Calloway dancing! 🕺🏻 @blkroostertaco 🙌🏼
📍 The Wall / Section 24
🌭 HARRELL’S HOT DOGS - Orlando City Stadium Dog features a Nathan’s Hot Dog topped with House Red Onion Sauce, Sauerkraut & Sport Peppers and finished with a Spicy Brown Mustard. Nice to meet owners Drew & David Cardaci! @_whats.up.dog_ 🙌🏼
📍 Section 30
🍖 4 RIVERS SMOKEHOUSE - Orlando’s favorite Pulled Pork Sandwich! Didn’t get to see owner John Rivers did you know you can now pick up 4R sauces & spices at Publix?! @4riverssmokehouse 🙌🏼
📍 Section 31
🐓 THE COOP by 4Rivers - Hand-breaded Chicken Tenders with 4R BBQ sauce @thecoop_wp 🙌🏼
📍 Section 9
🍔 TEAK NEIGHBORHOOD GRILL - Drunken Monk Burger with Smoked Bacon, Provolone Cheese, Roasted Cherry Tomotoes, house-made Angry Orchard Onion Jam, on Herb Mayo & Melted White Cheddor on a Pretzel Bun with Teak Chips. Best Burger in Orlando!  It was so nice to meet owner Jon Proechel after all these years of being a fan of their epic burgers! @teakneighborhoodgrill 🙌🏼
📍 Section 18
🍹MANE-GO MARGARITA - In The Wild Margarita with @camarenatequila - super tasty! 
⭐️ FYI - A Rotating Vendor Cart will feature @cholodogs & @sushieatstation among others 
⚽️ Will you be at the season opener this Saturday? 
#VamosOrlando Let’s Go! #ManEveryWall 💜 
Hosted #GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #ThingsToDoinOrlando
Happy #NationalMargaritaDay 🎉 This is “NOT E Happy #NationalMargaritaDay 🎉
This is “NOT EVERYONE’S MARGARITA” -  But it is mine! Made with Vida Mezcal, Cuervo Traditional Plata Tequila, Jalapeño, Creme de Mure, House Sour, & Black Salt. Epic! 
📍 Go get yours at @paddlefishorl in @disneysprings
Cheers! 
#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #DisneySprings
Hey Wine Lovers, I almost missed it’s #NationalD Hey Wine Lovers, I almost missed it’s #NationalDrinkWineDay 🥂
Here’s my 3 Favorite Wine Bars in Orlando: 
🍷 @quantumleapwinery - Orlando’s only sustainable winery & cidery, located in Mills 50 District. Try Kaley’s Rescue Red Blend & don’t miss the @thetastytrio “Wine, Cheese & Chocolate”events. 
🍷 @viniawinekitchen - fantastic boutique wines & Italian / Brazilian shareable plates in a charming intimate setting, located in Winter Park. Be sure to ask owner Fabio for his recommendations! 
🍷 @winebargeorge - Orlando’s only Master Sommelier owned restaurant with over 160 wines by the glass, bottle & ounce, located in Disney Springs. Say hi to somm genius George Miliotes and don’t miss their fab boards & wines from around the globe! 
Go #MakeSomedayHappen 
#GoEpicOrlando #OrlandoWine #loveOrlando
Don’t miss “Eat Ice Cream For Breakfast Day” Don’t miss “Eat Ice Cream For Breakfast Day” on Saturday 2/18! 
@kellyshomemadeicecream has created special breakfast-themed ice cream flavors for this annual International Childhood Cancer Awareness event
Order a cup, cone or shake or better yet, get an Ice Cream Flight & try all four! 
🥞 Blueberry Pancake (My favorite!)
🥣 Breakfast Buddies
🥓 Maple Bourbon Bacon
💥 Cinnamon Crunch
🗓️ When: Saturday February 18th, 9am-11am
📍 Where: All Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream Scoop Shops and participating Counters 
💰 50% of sales during breakfast will be donated to @gktwvillage 
🍦 “Eat Ice Cream For Breakfast Day” was created in 2013 in honor of Malia Grace, by her mom and aunt after she lost her battle with cancer in 2010. Malia Grace loved ice cream and her family wanted to commemorate her birthday, 2/18, in a way that would be fitting for her. During her wish trip at Give Kids The World, she had the opportunity to eat ice cream for breakfast and it was a highlight of the family’s experience. 
🌎 Give Kids The World Village is an 89-acre, whimsical nonprofit in Central Florida that provides critically ill children and their families with magical week-long wish vacations at no cost. Every wish family is treated to accommodations, transportation, donated theme park tickets, all meals and snacks, nightly entertainment, and more. Since 1986, Give Kids The World has welcomed more than 182,000 families from all 50 states and 76 countries.
Stop by Kelly’s and pick up these awesome flavors! But, regardless of where you are, Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast in honor of Malia, and raise awareness for those who battle childhood cancer. 💛
#GoEpicOrlando #eaticecreamforbreakfastday #kellyshomemadeicecream #kellysicecream #orlandoicecream
Happy Valentine’s Day! ♥️ Add a little fire Happy Valentine’s Day! ♥️ Add a little fire & passion to your life, head to @gideonsbakehouse for their Eternal Flame Cookie & Cake. They are 🔥in the best way!
🍰 Eternal Flame Cake is a 3-Layer Double Frosted Chocolate work of art! Red Cherry Buttercream layers and Chocolate Fudge Buttercream mixed with a bit of that Eternal Flame spice on the outer layer. Not too spicy and absolutely decadent! Pair it with a nice bold red wine!
🍪 Eternal Flame Chocolate Cookie packs a nice kick laced with house-made Ancho, Cayenne, and Cinnamon Spice Mix, infused with a magical essence of cherry and topped with Chocolate Covered Cherries. 
❤️ For a limited time, a special version of the Eternal Flame cookie without the spice mix is available too! (Check Gideon’s IG for details)
📍 Available only in February at Gideon’s in East End Market & Disney Springs
Go celebrate with the best cookies and cakes on the planet!
#MakeSomedayHappen #GoEpicOrlando #GideonsBakehouse #DisneySprings #ValentinesDayTreat
For The Love of Chocolate… stop by @peterbrookew For The Love of Chocolate… stop by @peterbrookewp and pick up the best treats for your sweetie and besties 💕
A few of my favorites: 
🍓 Chocolate Covered Strawberries (require advanced order)
❤️ “Jami Choo’s” Chocolate Shoes
💋 Assorted Truffles (loved the red lips!)
♥️ Chocolate Covered Popcorn! 
💖 Baskets with a variety of treats! (Don’t miss the Chocolate Covered Oreos, Cat Tails & Cookies)
☎️ Call the shop to reserve a basket for quick pick up at (407) 644-3200. They’re open regular hours today & 7AM -11:15PM on Valentine’s Day!
🍓 Thank you to Peterbrooke’s creative Cupid chocolatiers for these gorgeous berries! 
#GoEpicOrlando #PeterbrookeWP #winterparkfl
Bon jour! Bon soir, enchante! 💕 The perfect way Bon jour! Bon soir, enchante! 💕 The perfect way to celebrate Galentine’s Day & Valentine’s Day is with the best French pastries in Orlando! 
Thank you @chefstephsteph for these epic @choulalapastries 💕
Pre-order and pick up at either Choulala Park Avenue and 436 location! You’re going to want to get all of this! 
VALENTINE’S DAY DESSERT BOX!
Chef Steph created an epic gourmet assortment of Valentine’s Day delights perfect to share:
💋 (1) Lychee Rose French Kiss Entremet
♥️ (2) Conversation Heart Vanilla Macarons
💝 (2) Crème Brûlée Choux Cream Puffs!
“I LOVE CHOU” BOX includes:
❤️ Passion Fruit, Raspberry & Crème Brûlée Choux Cream Puffs
♥️ Red Velvet, Lavender & Conversation Heart Macaron
❤️ Strawberry Eclair
I also picked up these gorgeous heart shaped entremets:
💜 Exotique: Passion Fruit & Coconut 
💖 Sweeties: Strawberry & Chocolate Brownie
Go enjoy the sweetest Galentine’s & Valentine’s Day #MakeSomedayHappen 
📍Choulala Park Avenue is open regular hours Saturday & Sunday, closed Mon, but will open special hours on V-Day Tuesday 11a-8p.
📍Choulala 436 open regular hours including 10-5pm V- Day
(Hosted) #GoEpicOrlando #BlissfulBite #ChoulalaPastries #Galentines #ValentinesTreats
It’s #NationalPizzaDay but all I’m thinking ab It’s #NationalPizzaDay but all I’m thinking about is Hot Garlic Knots from @official_pizza_bruno 
Have you tried these?  They are a #MustEat in Orlando!
Look for the lit “Hot Knots Now!” sign! 🔥 And, when you think there isn’t enough garlic... there’s more! 🧄 🍕 
Go get some!
#GoEpicOrlando #OrlandoFoodie #MakeSomedayHappen
💜 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
Don’t let the casual vibe at @jujubysusuru fool Don’t let the casual vibe at @jujubysusuru fool you. The Kappo Bar Omakase experience with Chef Lewis Lin is out of this world (& Michelin-worthy!)
“irasshaimase / come in!” is what you hear first upon entering this revamped Pizza Hut building off Colonial Drive. Everyone is welcome at Juju, one of Orlando’s newest restaurants and one that belongs on every #OrlandoFoodie bucket list! 
I was invited to experience their Kappo Bar and it checked all the boxes for a truly amazing #MakeSomedayHappen experience.
The retro Japanese izakaya-style restaurant serves up a 10-course menu at the bar and a more casual a la carte menu in the dining room. 
Omakase menu changes regularly but always features the five primary cooking techniques (grilling, steaming, frying, simmering, and raw) using local and imported ingredients, in-house dry-aged fish, and binchotan charcoal-fired dishes. Everything is prepared right in front of you for an immersive experience.
And, Don’t miss the fun cocktails! I loved “That Old Pizza Hut” was like an orange creamsicle with Suntory Toki Whiskey served in a Pizza Hut cup! 
Make reservations and go check this Orlando restaurant off your bucket list.
Thank you Chef Lewis and Mai for your outstanding hospitality. I’ll be coming back soon!
(Hosted) #GoEpicOrlando #LoveOrlando #omakase
Hello 2023! Why start the year on a diet? My new y Hello 2023! Why start the year on a diet? My new year’s resolution is to focus on self-care.  Eating healthy and exercising, sure. But also treating myself to more @gideonsbakehouse cookies, cakes & cold brews. Who’s with me? What will you treat yourself with this year?
You want something. Go Get It. Period!
This was my last purchase of 12/31/22... I wanted to start 2023 on a sweet note!
What if my 2023 resolution is to visit Gideon’s every month for their awesome limited-edition treats? 
I think that’s a resolution I can keep!  January’s Butterscotch flavors sound to die for.
Did you hear? The epic Banana Bread Chocolate Chip cookie is now part of the permanent lineup. While the Coffee Cake is my all-time favorite, this one is in the top 3! And, the original Peanut Butter Cold Brew is a must pairing.
What resolution will you set today? Go #MakeSomedayHappen 🎉 Happy New Year everyone!
#GoEpicOrlando #2023resolutions #GideonsBakehouse #DisneySprings
Happy New Year 2023! 🎉 We had a fun and very ch Happy New Year 2023! 🎉 We had a fun and very chill night at @disneysprings. How about you?
I love Progressive Dining and Disney Springs has plenty of options. We just get a spot at the bar and order a drink and a fun bite. Then move on to the next spot. So easy! No reservations required! 
🦀 1st Stop: @paddlefishorl 
Steak Skewers
Crab Topped Fries 
Larceny Old Fashioned 
Capt Handsome - Cathead Vodka & Raspberry 
Mayan Empress - Santa Teresa Añejo Rum, pineapple
🍰 2nd Stop: @homecominfl 
Espresso Martini 
Carrot Cake 
☘️ 3rd Stop: @raglanroadpub 
Great entertainment! 
@guinnessus 
Great Irish Hooley Cocktail - so refreshing with strawberries & Prosecco 
🍪 Not pictured: we managed a stop at @gideonsbakehouse to pick up treats to start the new year!!! (They had a 2 second brief moment with no line around 11pm! I could not resist! I picked up a Banana Bread Chocolate Chip cookie which is now part of the year-round line up! I also got a slice of Golden Oreo cake and a PB Cold Brew to enjoy today! Starting 2023 off right… and not a diet 😂
We went early, had a great time and got home in time to watch the ball drop!!! 🎉
Wishing you all happiness and lots of delicious treats in 2023! 
#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #DisneySprings
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