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Omakase for Everyone at Dragonfly Orlando

By Christina Thomas 6 Comments

Omakase for Everyone at Dragonfly Orlando with www.GoEpicurista.com

What is Omakase and is it for you?

Do you suffer from “SMI”?

Severe Menu Indecision is a common condition affecting many of us. Do you stare at a restaurant menu, for what feels like hours, trying to decide what to order? I do. No, not because I’m picky. On the contrary, I’m not picky at all. I will eat just about anything on a menu. I love food! The challenge is most restaurant menus have so many choices, in an attempt to please every palate, and everything looks good to me. Thus, leaving the poor hungry souls suffering from SMI, like me, sitting there reading through descriptions, drooling, delaying our dining companions orders, while trying to decide between this or that or that other one?

Please tell me I’m not alone here.

I often wish I could just order everything on the menu, but then I would probably eat everything, and that would not be wise, would it?

Recently, while dining at Dragonfly Orlando, I found the perfect solution for Severe Menu Indecision.

Just RELAX. Let the chef decide for me.

What is Omakase?


Dining at the chef’s whim is called Omakase in Japanese. It literally means to trust the chef. All you have to do is give the chef some cues as to your dietary restrictions or preferences and then let them do what they do best. Create a culinary masterpiece. Thus, leaving you free to enjoy the table conversation, as opposed to pretending to listen, while actually trying to decide your order. Problem solved. No more Severe Menu Indecision!

Sushi chefs are culinary artists with extensive training. Sushi quality is not only determined by the freshness of the fish and cooking the rice to perfection but also by the artistry of the presentation. The Omakase menu option allows a chef to truly shine by giving him full freedom to serve you the very best. Not only are they using some of the freshest seafood in the restaurant that day, but their superb knife skills lead them to create plates so gorgeous you may just want to stare in awe. You definitely have to take a picture – or 20 in my case.

Omakase for Everyone at Dragonfly Orlando with www.GoEpicurista.com

Let’s take a picture first!

Typically, the Omakase menu will consist of a variety of dishes, served from lightest to heaviest, with raw, grilled or simmered options. It can be a feast of as many courses as you choose and your pocket will allow.

Everyone should Omakase, so why don’t they?

Omakase is offered in Japanese restaurants all over the world, especially those on the higher end of the price scale, where Omakase menus can be all night feasts of multiple courses, reaching the neighborhood of $400 per person (Urasawa in Los Angeles) and even higher. Yikes. Obviously, those prices aren’t for everyone.

There’s also the trust factor. I don’t understand the hesitation to trust the chef, yet, so many diners kill the kitchen with special requests and substitutions resulting in a dish that is nowhere near what the chef originally intended. This is the opposite of Omakase.

Here’s food for thought. If you’re eating in a chef’s restaurant you’ve already placed your dining experience in their hands, why not take it a step further, and actually trust them and let them surprise you? Certainly, the chef knows his product and what he does better than anyone. With Omakase, you let the chef know your dining preferences such as “no sea urchin” or “I’m allergic to avocado” and then you sit back, relax and get ready for a feast. There is no substitutions and no giving direction to the chef on what you want or how to prepare it. Just sit back and relax.

There’s another component of trust that plays a big part in traditional Omakase. Typically this feast is geared towards regular patrons where the chef knows the guest’s palate and the guest knows the chef’s skills. Omakase is not typically something you order on a first visit to a restaurant, thus out-of-town visitors must be adventurous to Omakase in a restaurant they’ve never been to. Thankfully, we now have online reviews to help in the decision-making process.

Omakase menus have the reputation of being out of reach for the general population, only enjoyed by the adventurous foodie, the wealthy, the frequent diner, or all of the above.

Is there another way to Omakase? I think so.

Omakase for Everyone at Dragonfly Orlando


Dragonfly Robata Grill & Sushi in Orlando has been on my Orlando Favorites List for a long time, especially for offering a fantastic Happy Hour, which I placed on Go Epicurista’s Top 9 Happy Hour for Foodies in Orlando. Their cocktail selection is creative, appropriately themed and the perfect pairing to some of the best sushi in town. When I heard they were introducing an Omakase Menu concept to offer guests the opportunity to simply order based on their mood and then let the chef decide the meal using seasonal ingredients, I was excited to try it.

Could this be an approachable Omakase experience that didn’t require a gold mine or a frequent diner card?” Omakase for Everyone at Dragonfly Orlando!

Their “Think Less. Eat Well.” Seasonal Omakase menu encourages you to select a mood and an ingredient and then trust the chef to craft a dish based on that taste profile. They took the Omakase concept even further and applied it to the bar, allowing bartenders to create a cocktail also based on your taste preference. Genius!

Omakase for Everyone at Dragonfly Orlando with www.GoEpicurista.com

Sit back and watch the chefs at Dragonfly

This is a great way to ease less adventurous diners into the Omakase concept since you know what the main ingredient of your drink or dish will be, you just don’t know the other components or the presentation. It is also perfect for our many Orlando visitors that may be dining at Dragonfly for the first time and thus don’t have an established relationship with the chef as a regular diner would. Dragonfly is conveniently located on Sand Lake Road, near the attractions and the Orlando convention center, making it a popular dining destination for visitors and locals.

Lastly, the Omakase pricing at Dragonfly Orlando is very approachable, with entrees averaging $20-24 each and sushi roll selections in the $9 -$18 for example. If you want a $400 per person menu, I’m certain they would be happy to accommodate but no need to break out the Black Amex here.

For these reasons, I say Omakase for everyone at Dragonfly Orlando. Is this traditional Omakase at Dragonfly Orlando? No. It is an Omakase interpretation that would suit everyone. When you see the menu I sampled below, I’m fairly certain you will agree.

Dragonfly Orlando Omakase Tasting Menu

I visited with some media friends and we sampled a variety of cocktails and dishes to get a taste of the full Omakase style offerings. The menu is very approachable and creative with wonderful combinations of flavors and textures. It is definitely Omakase for everyone, as long as you like fantastic food and can relax and let the chef and bartender decide for you. I was more than happy to let them take that pressure off and just eat and drink what was put in front of me!

Dragonfly Omakase Cocktails


Let’s start with the drinks. In addition to the traditional full bar, you will find a variety of cocktails at Dragonfly using Japanese spirits such as Sake and Shochu blended with fresh juices and house-made mixers. The Omakase menu guides you to order based on moods like Floral, Refreshing, Tropical, Soothing or Sweet.

Omakase for Everyone at Dragonfly Orlando with www.GoEpicurista.com

A cocktail to suit your mood!

I began this degustation in the Floral mood with a Gin Violet Cocktail made with gin, Creme de Violette, St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur, and Yuzu. This was not your grandmother’s cocktail. It had lovely floral notes and a gorgeous lavender hue without being too perfumey. It reminded me of a Spring garden party.

Omakase for Everyone at Dragonfly Orlando with www.GoEpicurista.com

Floral Gin Violet

If you’re in a Refreshing Mood and you love Citrus, the Nigori Citrus Cocktail with fresh limes, oranges, Nigori Sake, an unfiltered sake with a sweeter and fruity taste, Shochu, a distilled rice spirit similar to vodka, and orange gastrique was light, vibrant and fun. Florida in a glass!

Omakase for Everyone at Dragonfly Orlando with www.GoEpicurista.com

Refreshing Citrus

If you’re a fan of Piña Coladas but want something lighter and less caloric, the Nigori Coconut Cocktail with Nigori sake, coconut rum and pineapple juice can induce dreams of a tropical vacation. A perfect Summer cocktail!

Omakase for Everyone at Dragonfly Orlando with www.GoEpicurista.com

Tropical with Nigori Coconut

Lychee Martini made with sake, lychee syrup and vanilla vodka, garnished with whole lychee fruit was sweet yet well-balanced. I’m not sure what mood category this cocktail fell in as one of my dining companions just told the server to have the bartender surprise her, and he did!

Omakase for Everyone at Dragonfly Orlando with www.GoEpicurista.com

A Lychee Cocktail

To end the night, I went the Soothing route and asked the bartender to surprise me. He delivered with a Cucumber martini that had me imagining a trip to the spa in my near future. Cucumber Compulsion Cocktail made with Cucumber Vodka, St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur and Fresh Lemon Juice was definitely a Zen moment I enjoyed.

Omakase for Everyone at Dragonfly Orlando with www.GoEpicurista.com

Soothing Cucumber

Dragonfly Omakase Dinner

For a Spicy mood, the Hokkaido Scallops with garlic jalapeño sauce, carrot and daikon salad hit the spot. I loved the touch of heat from the pepper without overwhelming the delicate sweetness of the scallops. What a pretty way to start a meal. Omakase and I’m feeling good.

Omakase for Everyone at Dragonfly Orlando with www.GoEpicurista.com

Spicy Scallops

Feeling Savory? The Snake River Farm Wagyu with Shemiji mushroom, radish, maraschino cherries, yuzu truffle butter, crispy garlic and scallions was a great bite. The truffle butter gave it a wonderful umami while the radish and cherries were a nice contrasting surprise. Pure chef artistry. I could have eaten lots more of these beautiful beef creations but we had more dishes to try.

Omakase for Everyone at Dragonfly Orlando with www.GoEpicurista.com

Savory Wagyu

The Chilean Sea Bass with miso karashi, eringi puree, heirloom carrots and honey soy was their Earthy mood representation and it was fantastic. The buttery fleshy fish combined with the eringi puree, a type of oyster mushroom, gave it the earthiness required. The fish was cooked perfectly and was a favorite of everyone at the table. The beautiful golden color from the honey soy glaze was enough to make us all ‘ooh’ and ‘aah’.

Omakase for Everyone at Dragonfly Orlando with www.GoEpicurista.com

Earthy Sea Bass

You can’t dine at Dragonfly and not sample their amazing sushi selection. Our next course was the Composed Nigiri of Loch Duart salmon, Big Eye tuna and yellowtail. This course was Omakase worthy! The fish was wonderfully fresh as it’s flown in daily from Japan and the garnishes and sauces gave it that added touch that elevated their flavors. There was no need to drown these beauties in soy sauce.

Omakase for Everyone at Dragonfly Orlando with www.GoEpicurista.com

Composed Nigiri

In a nod to one of my favorite 1980’s movies, The Karate Kid, our next course was one of the restaurant’s signature rolls. The Cobra Kai Roll had a great combination of flavors and textures with snow crab delight, red onion, tomato, tempura flakes and lemon slices, topped with Loch Duart salmon, finished with garlic-shiso pesto and aged balsamic. The garlic-shiso pesto gave it a wonderful vibrancy. I love the use of fresh herbs. There was no pow and plenty of wow! Another dish I happily devoured and an example of how the Omakase selections can be combined with their regular menu selections for a tasting menu to suit your tastes.

Omakase for Everyone at Dragonfly Orlando with www.GoEpicurista.com

Cobra Kai Roll

Next we were presented with a traditional Japanese dish called Chawanmushi, a savory egg custard steamed in a tea cup, with shrimp and mushrooms, flavored with soy sauce. This is where Omakase truly kicks in. I would have never ordered this dish on my own and I’m so glad the chef chose it for us. I love trying new dishes. It was flavorful and soothing, like comfort food. It served as a palate cleanser after all the variety of flavors we had experienced.

Omakase for Everyone at Dragonfly Orlando with www.GoEpicurista.com

Traditional Chawanmushi

The last mood of the evening is always my favorite, Sweet. The key ingredient offered was chocolate with a decadent Chocolate Pot de Creme served with lychee ice cream, strawberry jam and walnut biscotti. It was the perfect sweet ending to a beautiful Omakase dining experience.

Omakase for Everyone at Dragonfly Orlando with www.GoEpicurista.com

Sweet Chocolate Pot de Creme

I must note that the dishes and cocktails featured above are a representation of what you can expect in terms of quality, variety and presentation, however, the concept of Omakase allows the chef to use seasonal ingredients and be creative. So expect to be surprised.

After this dining experience, I was hooked on the idea of Omakase. I would love it if every restaurant chef offered this, not just Japanese restaurants. Spanish Tapas comes close which is why I love that style of dining. Dragonfly incorporates the small plates concept with their sushi, sashimi and robata open fire grill creations.

Dragonfly Orlando has made Omakase approachable for everyone to enjoy. It doesn’t completely take the decision-making out of your hands rather it gently guides you to a truly creative experience that you may not have had otherwise.

Is Omakase for you? That depends. If you’re a “California or Spicy Tuna Roll only” kind of person then maybe not. You must be willing to trust the chef and be tiny bit adventurous. I encourage you to let loose, live a little and GO Omakase.

Omakase is definitely the cure for SMI. GO eradicate Severe Menu Indecision forever!

Dragonfly Orlando is located in the Dellagio shopping center, 7972 Via Dellagio Way, Orlando. They have a comfortable patio, lounge and expansive restaurant with an open kitchen where you can sit and watch the chef’s in action.

Omakase for Everyone at Dragonfly Orlando with www.GoEpicurista.com

The Dellagio Plaza

After your dinner, stroll around the plaza and enjoy this beautiful fountain.

Cheers!

GO Epicurista

Disclosure: We were guests of Dragonfly as part of a media dinner, however, that in no way influenced my opinion as I only share with you experiences worth celebrating. Cheers!

 Click to add a blog post for Dragonfly Robata Grill & Sushi on Zomato

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Filed Under: Go Travel & Dine Orlando Tagged With: Dragonfly, Japanese Restaurant, Omakase, Orlando Dining, Orlando Restaurant, Sushi

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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. Renu Skin Products says

    06/26/2016 at 7:15 am

    Wow a must try restaurant around orlando, Love the dishes it looks great and I want to try this. Thanks nice post!

    Reply
  2. Cindys Recipes and Writings says

    06/18/2015 at 12:34 pm

    I always hesitate when it comes to sushi. Omakase sounds like the perfect solution! It drives me crazy when people without allergies insist on having a ton of changes to the menu..

    Reply
    • Christina Thomas says

      06/18/2015 at 7:45 pm

      It truly does make it very enjoyable to just sit back and enjoy what the chef puts in front of me. Thanks for checking out Go Epicurista!

      Reply
  3. Kim says

    06/10/2015 at 5:32 pm

    Wow, I haven’t even heard of this Orlando restaurant!

    It sounds like a great idea. However, those of us with food intolerances have such a horrible time with a set menu or surprise dining. If you can be carefree with what you choose, though, this sounds like an exciting date night!

    Reply
    • Christina Thomas says

      06/11/2015 at 8:14 am

      Kim, Dragonfly is worth checking out especially if you like sushi and creative Asian cuisine. Food intolerances do make dining out a bit harder but don’t be afraid to just talk to the chef, give him/her your list of dietary restrictions and then let their creativity take over. They are experts and often welcome the challenge. I don’t recommend doing this on a busy weekend so they can give you more attention. Do Omakase after your second visit when you can talk to the chef and know their style and whether it will meet your needs. But definitely, don’t miss out. Thanks for checking out Go Epicurista!

      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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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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