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Epic Fig Glazed Candied Bacon

By Christina Thomas 4 Comments

Ever wondered how to take bacon to the next level of foodie nirvana? This is it! Candied Bacon & Wine.

Epic Fig Glazed Candied Bacon Recipe perfect for easy entertaining, paired with CK Mondavi Wines by GoEpicurista.com

Fig Glazed Candied Bacon.

Bacon! If you love it, you know what I’m talking about. Bacon lovers have an almost insatiable appetite for the indulgent pork product and go crazy for anything that even mentions it. It’s no surprise it has been a top food trend for years and one that shows no signs of going away any time soon. It’s added to everything from your classic burger to ice cream and cookies, jam and Bloody Mary’s. A search for “bacon” on Amazon yields 154,818 products! You’ll find hilarious t-shirts (“Bacon, I Am Your Father” to wacky Bacon Gumballs!

It’s no surprise. Everything tastes better with bacon! Yet, other than your morning breakfast, it’s not often you eat bacon all by itself. Now, you can eat bacon any time, including parties! Enter: Candied Bacon.

Epic Fig Glazed Candied Bacon Recipe perfect for easy entertaining, paired with CK Mondavi Wines by GoEpicurista.com

The first time candied bacon touched my lips was at Orlando’s BBQ restaurant American Q. Their “Swine Candy” was reason alone to fight the traffic on the drive to the Disney Lake Buena Vista area. It was served as a bar snack / appetizer and made it very difficult to limit yourself to just one, no matter how much restraint you may have told yourself you would have “just one.” The sweet / salty bacon combo candied with molasses brought smiles to the table every time. Then, I encountered famed Datz Restaurant in Tampa, Florida at the Clearwater Uncorked wine tasting event and I knew bacon was king. Where gourmet restaurants featured seared scallops and tenderloins, the good folks of Datz served nothing but bacon – from teriyaki to chocolate covered – mounds and mounds of bacon! They had a line of anxious bacon lovers longer than the eye could see. A true testament to the power of bacon!

As I was playing around in the kitchen, creating a decadent Stuffed Brie Panettone party appetizer as part of my collaboration with CK Mondavi Wines, I kept fretting about what could take this dish to the next level of foodie nirvana. Thoughts of the Swine Candy popped in my head like instant eureka! I found my answer: Fig Glazed Candied Bacon!

Epic Fig Glazed Candied Bacon Recipe perfect for easy entertaining, paired with CK Mondavi Wines by GoEpicurista.com

Getting ready to glaze the bacon…

To keep things simple, I used the same fig jam I used in the stuffed brie panettone recipe to glaze thick-cut applewood smoked bacon. Then, topped it with a mixture of brown sugar, real maple syrup which I bought this summer in Vancouver BC, salt, pepper and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat.

Epic Fig Glazed Candied Bacon Recipe perfect for easy entertaining, paired with CK Mondavi Wines by GoEpicurista.com

Bacon is ready for the oven!

The result was a salty, sweet, spicy, meaty treat that we could not get enough of! I ended up making two batches! My husband and my neighbors – aka “taste testers” couldn’t stop at just one. It’s a perfect party snack. Guaranteed your guests will be fighting for the last piece.

Epic Fig Glazed Candied Bacon Recipe perfect for easy entertaining, paired with CK Mondavi Wines by GoEpicurista.com

Fresh out of the oven. You’ll have to practice restraint and wait for the candied bacon to cool down. Then devour!

The best part about this recipe is you can modify it and play with it. If you don’t like fig, use your favorite preserves. You can also turn up or turn down the heat by adjusting the amount of pepper you use and even play with other fun flavors like Asian five spice and garlic. Have fun with it! That’s what bacon is all about, right?

Fig glazed candied bacon is also a fantastic topping for creamy brie or your favorite salad greens. Check out my Stuffed Brie Panettone recipe for an impressive appetizer that offers an incredible explosion of flavors. The possibilities are endless, because after all, everything is better with bacon!

Brie Stuffed Panettone topped with epic fig glazed candied bacon and wine pairing with CK Mondavi and GoEpicurista.com

Brie Stuffed Panettone with candied bacon, figs and pecans. Absolutely decadent!

What’s even better than candied bacon?

Candied Bacon and Wine!

Epic Fig Glazed Candied Bacon Recipe perfect for easy entertaining, paired with CK Mondavi Wines by GoEpicurista.com

Candied Bacon and Wine! Perfect Pairing!

Here’s your wine pairing tip for the fig glazed candied bacon:

You’ve probably never thought about pairing wine and bacon but they go quite well together. Select a rich red with notes of black fruit, ripe plum, cherries, and blackberries which will bring out the fig and maple flavors and spicy notes of the bacon. A jammy zinfandel, spicy syrah or red blend are a perfect pairing. I paired my fig glazed candied bacon with my favorite CK Mondavi Wine, Scarlet Five. This full-bodied, Bordeaux style red blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petite Verdot and Malbec, is rich and sophisticated, yet a super fantastic value (retails around $7-9/bottle), so the only indulgence is for your taste buds and not your wallet.

I’m a fan of red blends. They are bold, fun and interesting. Whereas Cabernet Sauvignons tend to be more elegant, the Scarlet Five red blend says “I can be sophisticated but I also like to let my hair down”. Just as comfortable paired with a gorgeous filet as a juicy burger – or in this case, bacon!

To see other recipes paired with CK Mondavi wines, check out what other CK Ambassadors like me are cooking up by searching #CKMondaviAmbassador #CKMondaviWines and #CKMondaviHoliday hashtags on Facebook, Twitter,Instagram and Pinterest. Guaranteed you will find awesome dishes to make at your next gathering.

Have you ever tried candied bacon? I would love to hear your ideas for what you will top with candied bacon next.

Easy Entertaining Holiday Party

Want to have some friends over to celebrate the holidays but don’t have the time to do a lot of planning? I have the solution for you. Make a few batches of this fig candied bacon, prepare an epic cheese board, and get a few bottles of wine. Go ahead invite friends over today! #MakeSomedayHappen

Guaranteed you’ll have a good time. Because, do I need to say it? Wine, Cheese and Bacon!

And because throwing a party doesn’t have to break the bank, look for CK Mondavi’s special holiday promotions on their wine bottles in stores now through January 31, 2017. You can receive $1 off PRÉSIDENT® Brie, $1 off RONDELÉ® BY PRÉSIDENT® and $1 off any crackers.

Epic Fig Glazed Candied Bacon Recipe perfect for easy entertaining, paired with CK Mondavi Wines by GoEpicurista.com

Make it an epic party with candied bacon!

Oh, and did I mention you can also win a trip to Napa?! Because bacon and wine was not enough to tempt your taste buds. I have more good news from CK Mondavi! They are giving away a wine country weekend in Napa. All you have to do to enter is text CKMONDAVI to 31279 (The deadline to enter is 12/31/16). If you love wine as much as I think you do, then you want to enter.

Cheers!

Go Epicurista

Disclosure: I am thrilled to have been selected to be a CK Mondavi wines ambassador for 2017. I am compensated for this post, however, I only choose to collaborate with brands I enjoy. I love their great quality value wines, and more importantly the company’s values and the family behind them. This is a fourth generation family run business that is 100% American. It is an honor to partner with them to share with you awesome wine pairing tips and easy entertaining recipes. All opinions and recipe creations are my own.

This post may contain affiliate links via Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. At no cost to you, when you make a purchase through this link, I earn a small commission which helps with website costs. Thank you for your support!

Epic Fig Glazed Candied Bacon Recipe and Wine pairing tips with CK Mondavi Wines and GoEpicurista.com

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Epic Fig Glazed Candied Bacon Recipe perfect for easy entertaining, paired with CK Mondavi Wines by GoEpicurista.com
Print
Fig Glazed Candied Bacon
Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time
30 mins
Total Time
55 mins
 
A salty, sweet, spicy fig glazed candied bacon is the perfect party treat all on its own or as a topping for creamy brie and sweet figs or your favorite salad greens for an explosion of flavors.
Course: Appetizer
Servings: 10 slices
Author: Christina Thomas
Ingredients
  • 10 slices bacon I used thick-cut applewood smoked, aprox. 12-14oz
  • 2 tablespoons fig jam
  • 1 cup dark brown sugar packed
  • 4 tablespoons real maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • pinch cayenne pepper
Instructions
  1. Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees.
  2. Line rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil.
  3. Spray wire rack with non-stick cooking spray and place on the foil lined baking sheet.
  4. Place bacon strips on the greased wire rack.
  5. Place the fig jam/preserves in a microwave-safe dish. Microwave for 20 seconds to soften.
  6. Brush fig preserves onto one side of each bacon strip.
  7. In small bowl, combine brown sugar, maple syrup, black pepper, salt and cayenne pepper.
  8. Evenly spread the brown sugar mixture on each piece of bacon, pressing it on the bacon with the back of a teaspoon.
  9. Bake for 30 minutes or until bacon is crisp and browned. Adjust based n your oven. You may need to check it at 20 minutes to prevent from burning or extend baking time.
  10. Remove bacon from the oven and let cool. Carefully lift it off the rack to avoid sticking.
  11. Bacon can be made in advance and stored in a ziplock bag for one day (Warning: you must hide it or chances are it will be gone before you're ready to serve it!).
  12. Serve whole candied bacon strips in a mason jar or large glass. The candied bacon can also be chopped and used as a topping on baked brie and salads.

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Filed Under: Easy Entertaining Recipes Tagged With: Bacon, CK Mondavi Wines, Easy Entertaining, Party Appetizer, Wine Pairing

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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. Cathy says

    01/01/2017 at 4:13 pm

    I’ve never had fig jam- can I get it at the store or do I have to make it homemade? I really need to make this bacon!

    Reply
    • Christina Thomas says

      01/01/2017 at 4:37 pm

      You can find fig jam in your grocery store or gourmet foods store. I usually find it near the cheese case. You can also order online on Amazon or World Market. The brand I used is called “Dalmatia Fig Spread” but there are many others. You can also use any other kind of preserves you’d like. I hope you will make this candied bacon soon! Cheers and thanks for stopping by Go Epicurista.

      Reply
  2. Nichole says

    12/19/2016 at 8:03 am

    This looks so amazing!!! I love fig jam. I love bacon. I love wine. This is a winner!

    Reply
    • Christina Thomas says

      12/19/2016 at 8:22 am

      Thank you Nichole! It’s the epic tasty trifecta. Cheers to a great holiday!

      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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FUN THINGS TO DO IN ORLANDO TO TREAT YOURSELF: 

☕️ Go on a Coffee Crawl of Downtown Orlando ☕️ 

Orlando has an epic coffee scene and I love a good crawl of local foodie spots.

Thank you Valerie @flygaltravels for organizing such a fun event! It was great to get to meet fellow coffee lovers and support our local Orlando coffee shops. It was a perfectly caffeinated afternoon ☀️ 

I missed the 1st stop at @downtowncredo (which I love!) but the next 2 stops were awesome!

1️⃣ ☕️ @stemmacraftcoffee Sweater Weather Latte and Lemon Poppyseed Muffin from @ilovebuttermilk was a perfect pair. Extra bonus points for the friendly staff handling the big group and the gorgeous Instagramable decor ✨

2️⃣☕️ @deeplycoffee Pumpkin Spice Latte made by rockin barista Ariel! Extra bonus points for the killer vibes and music by DJ @westxside_ 

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Go treat yourself! #MakeSomedayHappen 

#GoEpicOrlando #LoveOrlando #TheCityBeautiful #OrlandoCoffee
Treat. Yo. Self. 🍪 That’s my theme for the re Treat. Yo. Self. 🍪 That’s my theme for the remainder of 2023. 😊 

On my list of favorite Things To Do In Orlando to Treat Yourself: 

✨ @gideonsbakehouse Limited Edition Cookies and Cake Slices ✨ 

At the start of each month, I’m excited to see what Steve and his team of wizards have whipped up at Gideon’s. Every cookie and gorgeous cake creation has been truly inspired. The permanent menu is good, but the monthly creations are truly next level for me. It’s tough to pick a favorite!

😮 I have visited Gideon’s at Disney Springs every month this year and braved the lines, sometimes up to 5+ hours long - it’s mostly a virtual queue so not that big of a deal as you get to go walk around and enjoy Disney Springs - but I have faced disappointment when they’ve run out of a limited item, so word of advice, get there early! (You can also go to OG location East End Market for much shorter lines but the shop at DS is part of the Magic.)

I’ve answered the same question repeatedly from countless Orlando visitors who don’t know Gideon’s, and my answer is always an emphatic: “Yes! Yes, it’s worth it!” 😂

November’s visit included:

🍰 Carrot Cake (on Sundays) - classic! 
🍪 Pumpkin Bread Chocolate Crumb Cookie (November flavor) loved it! 
🍪 Chocolate Churro Cookie - Day of The Dead flavor was epic!
🍪 Coffee Cake Cookie - my all time favorite, available daily only at Disney Springs

I love that each box of cookies comes with a collectible Gideon’s character card. Such a cute bonus! I absolutely love Bonnie Brae (and the cookie she inspired) 🍋 

Is Gideon’s Bakehouse on your list of things that make you happy to live in Orlando? 

What are you doing to treat yourself today? 

Go #MakeSomedayHappen 

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🍩 Orlando Chocolate Donut Showdown! 🍩 @thes 🍩 Orlando Chocolate Donut Showdown! 🍩

@thesaltydonut Audubon Park is asking Orlando guests to try both Chocolate Donut flavors and vote for which donut they want to stay on the menu permanently! 😋

Which one will you choose? 

🍩 NEW Chocolate Sheet Cake Donut - crumbly, chocolatey and just like sheet cake. Yummy!

vs 

🍩 Chocolate Cookie Crunch Donut (currently on the menu) It’s a classic! 

🥇 I debated on my favorite as I loved them both… Chocolate Sheet Cake wins! 

☕️ Stop by this week! And don’t miss getting your favorite coffee drink

Thank you Ian at The Salty Donut for hosting me! 

#GoEpicOrlando #ChocolateDonut #TheSaltyDonut
‼️ NEW RESTAURANT & BAR ALERT! Chayote Barrio ‼️ NEW RESTAURANT & BAR ALERT! Chayote Barrio Kitchen in Winter Park, FL 

We stopped in for cocktails and can’t wait to go back and experience the full menu.

Chayote Barrio Kitchen “Nueva Mesa Latina” concept by acclaimed Puerto Rican Chef Mario Pagán (featured in Food Network Next Iron Chef) celebrates the traditions and culinary footprint of all cultures with Hispanic heritage and the menu is definitely an elevated take on the traditional. 

But let’s talk cocktails… I loved the creativity and thoughtful intention of every recipe. The mixologists were so fun to watch and the bar is an absolute vibe.

We enjoyed:

🥂 NOTA FANTASMA - the herbal spritz garnished with an aromatic smoked rosemary spring was so wonderfully layered.  Made with singani 63, chayote honeydew oleo, lime, reserva cava brut 18’, & elixir de chartreuse. The smell of the rosemary at every sip made it feel like Xmas! 

🍸 CORTADITO - a next level espresso martini with ketel one vodka, mr black, espresso, butterscotch lime zest, and a surprising delightful guava cookie rim

Perfect date night, or pre and post movie visit! Add @chayotewinterpark in @winterparkvillage to your list, make reservations and go #MakeSomedayHappen 

#GoEpicOrlando #OrlandoFoodie #LoveOrlando #WinterParkFL
‼️ NEW Restaurant Alert: Are you a fan of Peru ‼️ NEW Restaurant Alert: Are you a fan of Peruvian cuisine? Check out @MaresWinterPark in Winter Park, FL! 

I recently had lunch at their new second location on Park Ave and the flavors and the service were fantastic! I can’t wait to return and try more of their menu which also includes assorted ceviches, causas, saltados and even Peruvian maki. 

Here’s what we ordered and loved:

🍤 Parrilla Marina: Assorted grilled seafood with a flavorful mild black mint sauce, Peruvian Corn, and Yuca fries. 

🐄 Lomo Saltado: the traditional Tenderloin strips with soy sauce, garlic, onions, tomato wedges and cilantro, flambéed with wine

🥘 Arroz Mares: similar to a Paella with fish and assorted seafood, red peppers, green peas, and carrots.

🌶️ • If you like things spicy, ask for their housemade hot sauce. It’s phenomenal!

🥤 Their house fruit juices (surtidos) were also super tasty. You can choose your blend of up to 3 fruits. 

Make reservations and Go #MakeSomedayHappen 

Their first location is @mareshunterscreek which now I need to check out as well! 

#GoEpicOrlando #MaresWinterPark #peruvianfood #loveorlando
🍽️ MUST DO FALL EVENT IN ORLANDO 🍂 Swan & 🍽️ MUST DO FALL EVENT IN ORLANDO 🍂 Swan & Dolphin Food & Wine Classic

Did you get your tickets for one of the best foodie events of the year?

Celebrating 14 years, The Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic is bigger than ever, offering guests unlimited tastings of more than 25 dishes featuring culinary selections from the hotel’s award-winning restaurants including Il Mulino, @toddenglishsbluezoo,  @rosamexicano and Amare at @swanreserve. Plus over 200 wine, beer & spirits samplings from around the globe, all in a festive setting with live entertainment and tasting booths along the hotel’s scenic causeway, private lake and beach.

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🗓️ Friday, Nov. 10 & Saturday, Nov. 11 from 5:30-9 p.m.
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• For More Info: FoodAndWineClassic.com

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• VIP Champagne & Dessert Party at the Swan Reserve 15th-floor private event space, The Vue. Saturday, Nov. 11 from 8:30-10 p.m.

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We enjoyed:

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 🌽 Esquites, Chipotle Crema, Cotija, Tajin, Charred Lime
 🥧 Mini Pumpkin Pie

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🎟️ Reserve Your Ticket at GrandeLakes.com

Thank you  @grandelakesorlando, @ritzcarltonorlando @jwmorlando for a perfect fall afternoon!
 
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ADD THIS TO YOUR FOODIE LIST. @namilakenona - The ADD THIS TO YOUR FOODIE LIST. @namilakenona - The newest upscale dining experience you’ll want to add to your list of Splurge Worthy Restaurants and Fun Foodie Things To Do in Orlando…

🌟 Nami at Wave Hotel in Lake Nona 🌟

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Highlights:

🌸 House of Suntory welcome and running into the @beamsuntory brand specialist PJ Smerechansky @the_alcohol_alchemist 
🍸 The Ivory Cocktail made by Daniel and poured out of a gorgeous ice sculpture 
🍸 The best Haku Vodka Espresso Martini made by the talented dancing mixologist Diz! 
🍸 Suntory Toki Highballs from their Highball Tap Machine
🍣 Fantastic Sushi & Nigiri
✨ Caviar Bumps
🍨 Nitro Ice Cream 
🍮 Uni Panna Cotta 
🍭 Refreshing Popsicles
… And so many more gorgeous bites I didn’t get a chance to try it all! 

@namilakenona at @lakenonawavehotel is # 40 on my list of 50 Things To Do in Orlando Right Now! Make reservations and go #MakeSomedayHappen 

🎉 Congratulations to Tavistock and the entire Nami team led by Culinary Director Freddy Money, Senior Culinary Director Eli Kaimeh, Corporate Pastry Chef Stuart Whitfield, Vice President of Food and Beverage Michael Ferraro, Chef de Cuisine Jason Beliveau, Corporate Beverage Director Jacob Johnson & General Manager Christopher Buyega 🥂

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☀️ Summer Please Don’t Go. 🍹 I know fall ☀️ Summer Please Don’t Go. 🍹

I know fall is here but in this Florida heat, I’m still feeling summer vibes! How about you?

🍋 We squeezed the most out of life and summer by the pool today with Natalie’s Orchid Island Fresh Lemonade & Strawberry Lemonade mixed with @tanteotequila chipotle & jalapeño tequila! 

☀️ The Fruta Pop Frozen Treats were definitely a nice surprise in our order! 

🍓 We’ve been big fans of Natalie’s Juices for 20+ years so when they offered to send me some of their lemonades and new Fruta Pops of course I said YES! Thank you @nataliesoj for this refreshing treat! 

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It’s always a good time for ice cream… 🍦 # It’s always a good time for ice cream… 🍦

# 39 on our list of 50 Things To Do In Orlando 

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams now has a new ice cream shop in @winterparkvillage 

You can pick up this unique ice cream brand from your nearest grocer or stop by their new shop in Winter Park (only the 3rd in Florida!) for super tasty from scratch ice cream flavors. I love that they partner with local farmers and growers to create their buttercream based ice cream flavors.  You can taste the freshness! 

I stopped by the shop and got a split scoop of Lemon Bar & Salted Caramel. Both yummy! 

I also got a super fun tasting pack in the mail with these flavors:

🍦Gooey Butter Cake: my favorite!
🍦Salty Caramel: classic! 
🍦Brambleberry Crisp: if you love a berry pie you’ll love this!
🍦Darkest Chocolate: chocoholic dream!
🍦Salted Peanut Butter & Chocolate Fleks: The Perfect PB & Chocolate combo! 
🍦Brown Butter Almond Brittle: buttery & nutty!

Go enjoy a great ice cream! #MakeSomedayHappen 

🎁Thank you @jenisicecreams for the ice cream pints gift! 

#GoEpicOrlando #LoveOrlando #JenisIceCream
#WinterParkFL
Celebrate the “Unofficial End of Summer” this Celebrate the “Unofficial End of Summer” this Labor Day at these 3 Fun Places To Go in Orlando.

Next on our List of 50 Things To Do In Orlando:

# 35 - @promenadeatsunsetwalk / @margaritavilleresortorlando
Located in the Sunset Walk complex on 192, you’ll find tons of options to spend the entire day! 

🎶 Street Entertainment, Live Music, Bands, DJs, at Promenade at Sunset Walk. Free admission and parking!
💃🏻 Dinner and a Show at @estefankitchenorlando
🍽️ Fun Bites at @fordsgarageusa, @eatatbento and more!
🍺 Raise a glass and enjoy a Margarita or @landsharklager beer in honor of Jimmy Buffet
🍦 Get a refreshing shaved ice at @bahamabucks 
💆🏻‍♀️ Relax at St. Somewhere Spa inside Margaritaville Resort

# 36 - @boxiparklakenona / @learnlakenona
Located in Lake Nona Town Center, this entertainment complex is fun for the entire family! 
🎶 Live Music: Layla Brisbois Band 1pm-4pm, Groove Infusion 5:30pm-9pm
🍹Plenty of bar options for margaritas, cocktails, wine and beer
🚚 Enjoy a variety of Counter Service offerings from repurposed shipping containers. My favorites Cañonita Tacos and Claw and Order Lobster Rolls
🍽️ For a nice dinner, check out @canvaslakenona and @chromalakenona , serving #MagicalDining
🎟️ Free admission, Enjoy Labor Day specials 12p-9pm

# 37 - @iconparkorlando 
Located in the heart of I-Drive, you’ll find a variety of entertainment attractions, restaurants, and bars. Fun for the entire family! My favorite picks include:
🎡 Ride The Wheel! This 400ft tall landmark offers the best views of Orlando
🎩 Visit @museumofillusions.orlando for mind-blowing interactive displays
🍽️ Cocktails, Casual Bites, & Live Music at Tin Roof and Ole Red
💃🏻Dinner & Show at @tapatoroorlando is a must! Check out their #MagicalDining menu, sip sangria and fun cocktails, and enjoy the Flamenco show.
🎟️ Check out the Icon Park website for attraction packages, tickets and reservations

Happy Labor Day! Enjoy your day with friends and family and Go #MakeSomedayHappen

Is Summer really over? 

Follow for more... 

#GoEpicOrlando #LoveOrlando #UnbelievablyReal #SunsetWalk #BoxiPark #IconPark #LearnLakeNona #IDrive #MargaritavilleOrlando
Celebrate the “Unofficial End of Summer” and h Celebrate the “Unofficial End of Summer” and half way to St. Patrick’s Day at Raglan Road Irish Pub 11th Annual Great Irish Hooley Music Fest!  Happening now until 9/4

# 34 - on our List of 50 Things To Do In Orlando! 

🎶  Top Irish bands straight from Ireland rock the house all weekend! Including Sina Theil, named “Rising Star of 2022” by American Celtic Listener Music Awards, The Byrne Brothers, Strings & Things, One For The Foxes, The Connemara Ramblers, Oliver Havlin and more
💃🏻 Raglan Road Irish Dancers
 🥃 New “Stars & Hearts” Keeper’s Heart Whiskey flight, an Irish-American collaboration aged in stout barrels. 
🍹 New Hooley cocktail “Heart of the Hooley” with Keeper’s Heart Irish Bourbon and blackberry and mint shrub. 🍸 Irish Espresso Martini is my favorite!
🍻 New De Fesht Irish Lager
🥗 New Crispy Cream Goat Cheese Salad
🇮🇪 New Dishes at Cookes of Dublin - Raglan Road’s quick service: Dalkey Dog, Loaded Bang Bang Chicken Fries, Hog in a Box
🍰 Decadent Strawberry Cheesecake at Cookes of Dublin and at the pub! MUST EAT!

When you hear the word “Hooley,” you know to expect a good time. It’s an excuse to party! It’s a Gaelic term for a lively, family-friendly party that ends up becoming legendary in one’s memory.

Reservations recommended. Go #MakeSomedayHappen

(hosted media preview) #GoEpicOrlando #GoEpicDisney #ThingsToDoinOrlando #LoveOrlando #DisneySprings #RaglanRoadIrishPub #LaborDayWeekend
Magical Dining at award-winning Kabooki Sushi is o Magical Dining at award-winning Kabooki Sushi is on our list of 50 THINGS TO DO IN ORLANDO

# 33 @kabooki_orlando 

Owner / Chef Henry Moso has been recognized by James Beard Foundation, Michelin Guide,& named Orlando Weekly’s 2023 “Best Sushi Restaurant” and “Best Local Chef” 

@visitorlando Magical Dining 3-Course menu for only $40 is a great opportunity to experience some of their most popular dishes!

We enjoyed: 

APPETIZERS
✨ Leche De Tigre: torched salmon, truffle paté, kizami wasabi, aji amarillo, smoke trout roe, sunchoke chips
✨ Hamachi Carpaccio: Japanese yellowtail, yuzu tobiko, ponzu, kaffir lime oil, yuzu kosho, serrano peppers

MAIN COURSE
✨ Kasei Don: assorted fresh sashimi of the day
✨ Berkwood St. Louis Sticky Ribs: braised then crispy tempura, tossed in smoked chili hoisin sauce

DESSERT
✨ C4 Chocolate lava cake with dulce de leche, vanilla ice cream, chocolate ganache sauce
✨ Mochi Trio ice cream mochi

COCKTAILS:
🍸 Booki Limeade
🍸 Green Goddess
🍸 Kabooki Espresso Martini

ABOUT KABOOKI SUSHI:

📍 2 locations:  @kabooki_orlando on Colonial Drive & @kabooki_sandlake by chef @henry_moso88 
🍣 Kabooki Sushi features a creative sushi & Japanese menu in a club-like stylish atmosphere. 
🍴 You can’t go wrong with any choice on the menu! 

ABOUT VISIT ORLANDO MAGICAL DINING: 

💵 $40 3-course menu available now - 10/1
📱 Reservations highly recommended 
💻 Visit MagicalDining.com for details 
🎁 $1 per meal benefits local charity @thelifeboatproject 

Make reservations & GO #MakeSomedayHappen 

(Dinner hosted by #VisitOrlando) #GOepicOrlando #UnbelievablyReal #LoveOrlando
50 THINGS TO DO IN ORLANDO ... # 26 - Foodie Brun 50 THINGS TO DO IN ORLANDO ... 
# 26 - Foodie Brunch Crawl of Disney Springs - our 3rd Stop!

There are so many fun brunch options at Disney Springs, why not do a progressive brunch crawl and try several restaurants? 

Get a group of friends together and have a fun scavenger hunt like I did with my girlfriends visiting from out of town. We had a great time! 

Our 3rd Stop: Raglan Road Irish Pub for a Rollickin’ Good Time, great elevated Irish pub fare, fantastic craft cocktails and live entertainment with the talented Raglan Road Dancers and Band.

We shared these sweet brunch dishes:

🍞 It’s Ok To Drool -  the best French Toast you’ll ever have! Made with their famous Bread & Butter pudding topped with vanilla mascarpone, mixed berries, hazelnut crunch, & crispy maple glazed bacon. A MUST EAT!

🥞 Oh My, Pancake - topped with banana & cashew caramel sauce, milk chocolate mousse & chocolate ganache. OH MY!

My Favorite Brunch Cocktails:

🥂 Misty Irish Eyed - Irish Mist Honey, Grace O’Malley Gin, Italicus, lemon sour, Prosecco

🥂 Strawberry Fields Mimosa - Dingle Irish Vodka, Luxardo Apertivo, lemon sour, house-made strawberry puree, prosecco.

🥂 It’s a Hell of Hooley - Minke Irish Vodka, Muddled Raspberries, lemon sour, house-made rosemary syrup, Fees Foam, prosecco.

☕️ The Lost Irish Coffee - Lost Irish Whiskey, house-made Demerara sugar syrup, coffee, cream.

☕️ Irish Espresso Martini - Slane Irish Whiskey, J.F. Hadens espresso liqueur, Guinness simple syrup, chilled espresso

Brunch is served every Saturday and Sunday - get a seat at the bar or make reservations based on the size of your group. - It does get busy so reservations are recommended! 

Check out the previous videos for Stop 1 and 2,  and follow for more Fun Things To Do (and Eat) in Orlando

Go #MakeSomedayHappen 

(Hosted) #GoEpicOrlando #GoEpicDisney #RaglanRoadIrishPub #DisneySprings
Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining is back with a ba Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining is back with a bang and bigger than ever with 130+ of Orlando’s most popular restaurants — including MICHELIN Guide honorees such as NEW this year @avamediterraegean in Winter Park 💫 

Here’s a preview of their delicious @visitorlando #MagicalDining 3 course menu for $60. I love the vibe, ambiance and delicious Mediterranean food! Don’t miss having a cocktail in their lounge before dinner. 

—

APPETIZERS

🐟 Sea Bream Ceviche: verjus aguachile, green tomato pico de gallo, levantine bread
🥗 Horiatiki Greek Salad: PDO aged-feta, heirloom tomato, persian cucumber, greek mountain aregano, Kalamata olive
🥕The Greek Spread: hummus, baba ganoush, tzatziki, garden vegetables, warm pita

MAIN COURSE

🐟 Grilled Faroe Island Salmon, fennel salad, baby spinach, avgolemono dressing
🥩 Creekstone Farm Prime Flank Steak, green harissa, sun dried tomato, eggplant caviar
🍄 Black Truffle Risotto: seasonal mushroom fricassée, kefalograviera, chives

DESSERT

🍯 Baklava: layers of crispy phyllo dough, honey nuts, pistachio orange blossom ice cream
🍨 Sorbet & Ice Cream Daily Selection
🍫 Chocolate Fondant molten chocolate lava cake, caramel, almond crumble, mastiha liquor gelato

Details: 

🗓️ six full weeks / 45 delicious days, from August 18 through October 1, 2023
🍽️ 130+ restaurants 
💵 3-Course Menus at a special price of $40 & $60 per person plus tax and gratuity
🙌🏼 Through Visit Orlando, up to $2 from each meal served will benefit @thelifeboatproject and more local nonprofits

Visit the website magicaldining.com to view all the restaurant menus. Reserve your table and GO experience Orlando’s awesome culinary scene! 

💫 Where will you be Magical Dining? 

(Hosted) #GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #AvaMediterraegean #LoveOrlando #UnbelievablyReal
Ready for a Permanent Vacation? Summer is not over Ready for a Permanent Vacation? Summer is not over yet… Next on our list of 50 THINGS TO DO IN ORLANDO…

# 23 - Visit the coolest NEW bar @permanentvacationfl for an immersive hidden tiki bar experience!

The theming and vibe will transport you to a spooky tropical destination! “Excitement & Danger Come To Life as you Experience Thrills & Relaxation On This Island Escape!” 

Enjoy a phenomenal cocktail menu created by @dan_tedson & a talented team of mixologists (some drinks will even trigger a show!) And of course you need some fun bites to go with the boozy drinks and this menu offers a nice variety of shareable dishes.

I loved all of the attention to details and the hidden table nooks. The theme is on point and not gimmicky, cocktails and food are high quality. Definitely a must visit! 

Here are the details: 

📍 Located inside The Copper Rocket, 106 Lake Avenue, Maitland.

🗓️ Reservations are required and they go fast! Follow their IG for dates. 21+ only

⏰ Your “Permanent” Vacation experience is 2 Hours (which is actually plenty!) 

🍹 PICK YOUR POISON: cocktails come in various strengths. Be sure to look for the skulls on the menu! From Sober strength zero proof called “Placebos” to Rest In Peace (💀💀💀) called “Tranquilizers” 🤣

They also have fun drink bowls to “SHARE THE BOOTY” serving 2-6! 

🍴 BITES: you’ll find appetizers, flatbreads, & kabobs

🍕 FLATBREADS -  we tried BRUCE! (Veggies) SHELL-FISH DECISIONS (rock shrimp) & WHERE’S WILBUR? (Pork)
🐷 PUMBAA - Braised & slow roasted pork shank 
🍍 TOUCAN STAN - Tropical Fruit Salad with yogurt dipping sauce

Make reservations and go #MakeSomedayHappen 

(Hosted) #GoEpicOrlando #PermanentVacation #LoveOrlando #thingstodoinorlando
50 THINGS TO DO IN ORLANDO THIS SUMMER - Don’t m 50 THINGS TO DO IN ORLANDO THIS SUMMER - Don’t miss @disneysprings Flavors of Florida sponsored by @corkcicle 🍊

Here are my favorite bites and sips from this year’s Flavors of Florida: 

# 17 🍊 @everglazed_fl 
🍩 Citrus Dream Donut
🥤Orange Lemonade with Sweet Cold Foam

# 18 🍊 @gideonsbakehouse 
🍪 Key Lime Chocolate Chip Cookie
☕️ Orange Mocha Nitro Cold Brew (AKA Stuart’s Cold Brew)

# 19 🍊 @saltandstraw 
🍦 Exquisito Guanabana Stracciatella Ice Cream

# 20 🍊 @raglanroadpub 
🍰 Sunshine State of Mind Sweet orange pudding

# 21 🍊 @jaleobyjose 
🍅 Ensalada de Sandía y Tomate
🐖 Jamón Serrano con Melón
🍹 Frozen Agua de Valencia

# 22 🍊 @winebargeorge 
🍹Frozen Old Fashioned with DOLE Whip Orange and George Dickel 8-Year-Old Tennessee whiskey - get it in the souvenir Corkcicle. 

Go #MakeSomedayHappen 

#GoEpicOrlando #DisneySprings
#FlavorsofFlorida #LoveOrlando
50 THINGS TO DO IN ORLANDO THIS SUMMER - # 15 - C 50 THINGS TO DO IN ORLANDO THIS SUMMER - # 15 -  Celebrate #NationalOysterDay at these 8 Top Spots for Oysters in Orlando

🦪 @fourflamingosorl by @richardblais, @hyattregencygrandcypress - Disney Area
• Try the famous Ice Cold Oysters & Pearls! They are a showstopper! 

🦪  @theospreyorlando - Baldwin Park
• Choose from James River, Florida, East Coast, or West Coast oysters
• Happy Hour: (Tue-Fri 5-6:30p) $2 Mid-Atlantic or Florida Oysters (min. 6)

🦪 @eatatlukes - Maitland
• Atlantic Oysters
• Thursday All Day Happy Hour Half Off Oysters

🦪 @reelfishcoastal - Winter Park
• Several varieties of Oysters on the Half Shell, including Florida’s Sublime boutique oysters, served raw with house-made cocktail sauce & cucumber mignonette, Baked with Parmesan Bread Crumbs or Oysters Rockefeller with Spinach and Artichoke Cream
• Happy Hour (Tuesday-Friday) $9 Half-Dozen Gulf Oysters, Raw or Baked

🦪 @nautilobstah - Apopka
• Every day, James River Blue Point Virginia Oysters, Served Raw or Steamed for only $1.75 each/ per dozen! 
• Oystahs Casino with Chef Mike’s Casino Butter & Bacon are also fantastic!

🦪 @kaya.orlando - Mills 50 District
• TALABA half dozen oysters - Indian river or Matanzas oysters - with spiced vinegar and ramp sawsawan

🦪 @primoatgrandelakes , @jwmorlando, @grandelakesorlando 
• The Seafood Tower includes gorgeous Moondancer Oysters, Lobster Celery Remoulade, Shrimp Cocktail, Bacalao and Smoked Wild Salmon

🦪  @knifespoonorlando, @ritzcarltonorlando, Grande Lakes
• Oysters topped with Passmore Caviar at various special events are always a treat!

Follow for more Fun Things To Do in Orlando and Go #MakeSomedayHappen

#GoEpicOrlando #Oysters #LoveOrlando
50 THINGS TO DO IN ORLANDO THIS SUMMER - #12 Spe 50 THINGS TO DO IN ORLANDO THIS SUMMER - #12 

Spend a sophisticated evening with a progressive dinner & cocktails at the newly reimagined Grand Bohemian Hotel. 🥂

@grandbohemianorlando - Downtown Orlando’s Luxury Boutique Hotel got a multi-million dollar makeover. From the dining & bar options to the guest rooms & event space, if you haven’t been in a while, it’s time to go back! 💥 You’re going to love the new look. 💥 And you don’t want to miss checking out the artwork throughout the property and exploring the space like we did on a recent visit! 

The food. The drinks. The vibe. Perfect for an evening or a staycation getaway. And only steps away from Dr. Phillips Center and Amway Center. Drinks and dinner before and after shows is a must! 

Here’s what we enjoyed: 

🍸 BÖSENDORFER LOUNGE - start & end your night with cocktails in this gorgeous lounge.

🥂 FRENCH 75 (1st drink)
🍸 ESPRESSO MARTINI (last drink)

🎹 Fun Fact: There were only two Bösendorfer pianos designed by architect Hans Hollein in 1990 in the world! One can be found in the lounge of the Grand Bohemian Hotel in Orlando!

🍽️ BOHEME - fantastic dinner! 

🍤 SHRIMP COCKTAIL
🍅 BURRATA
🥩 WAGYU BEEF CARPACCIO - my favorite!

🦚 THE PEACOCK ROOM - Private Dining Room for 24pp available for family style dinners

🥗 FARMER’S GREENS
🥕 BABY ROOTS
🍄 WILD MUSHROOMS
🍞 BRAISED LAMB
⭐️ SCALLOPS - loved this!
🥩 TOMAHAWK EXPERIENCE - WOW! 

🍷 Kessler Chardonnay and Kessler Cabernet

🍹ALTIRA ROOFTOP BAR & LOUNGE - brand new poolside bar on 6th floor, and it’s open to the public. Live DJ every evening Wed-Sun. Brunch on Saturdays.
Perfect sunset spot! 
🥂 THE GRAND COCKTAIL 
🍮 CHEESECAKE & CHOCOLATE CREME BRÛLÉE 

Thank you to General Manager Benjamin McCarney and his team for hosting a wonderful media preview. 

Reserve Your Night and Go #MakeSomedayHappen 

(Hosted) #GoEpicOrlando #GrandBohemianOrlando #KesslerCollection #MarriottBonvoy #LoveOrlando #TheCityBeautiful
Thank you for the memories… 🐓 💕 Sad to hea Thank you for the memories… 🐓 💕 Sad to hear the news about @thecoop_wp closing their doors in Winter Park after 9 1/2 years! Thank you to @johnrivers4r & The 4R team for the great memories and delicious Southern classic home cooking. That Classic Chicken Sandwich is still my favorite! 

🍗 Go get one last bite before their last day on 7/16. 

I hope to see The Coop again at another location soon! 

#MakeSomedayHappen #GoEpicOrlando
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