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#MakeSomedayHappen one delicious bite, sip and trip at a time! Let's talk great restaurants, one of a kind special events, bucket list foodie travel, easy entertaining tips and recipes.

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Dominican Chimichurri Burger Deluxe, Late Night Street Food of Dominican Republic

By Christina Thomas 2 Comments

Dominican Chimichurri Burger Deluxe Recipe created by GoEpicurista.com as part of Girl Carnivore's #BurgerMonth Event

  The Dominican late night street food staple gets a deluxe upgrade in this Chimichurri Burger Recipe.   Let's talk burgers! May is National Burger Month and I got a special burger to celebrate with. Have you ever tried a Dominican Chimichurri Burger? It’s saucy, messy and full of flavor, like any great burger should be.  A visit to the Dominican Republic … [Read more...]

Teak Neighborhood Grill serves up the best burger in Orlando

By Christina Thomas 2 Comments

Teak Neighborhood Grill Best Burger in Orlando with www.goepicurista.com

Burgers & Football: A winning match up at Teak Football games - College Bowl games or NFL - are best enjoyed with a crowd. Actually, all sports are best with a crowd, don’t you think? Nothing brings people together better than sharing ice-cold drinks and messy good food while yelling (cheering) at the TV screen. In Orlando, one of the best places for this kind of fun is Teak … [Read more...]

Top 9 Holiday Cocktails in Orlando

By Christina Thomas 4 Comments

Top 9 Holiday Cocktails Recipes in Orlando from www.goepicurista.com

Celebrate with festive holiday cocktails recipes from top Orlando Restaurants Holiday food gets center stage this time of year. All the attention goes to the turkey, stuffing, casseroles, mashed potatoes and pumpkin pies. Yes, I know they are all delicious. However, every good meal deserves a good cocktail pairing. Especially this time of year! These Orlando restaurants have … [Read more...]

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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"Only one way to cover a story like this, and make "Only one way to cover a story like this, and make that a double, bartender, please." - P. J. O'Rourke⠀
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It's #WorldBartenderDay Let's give a BIG shoutout to all the fantastic bartenders out there keeping us hydrated with their boozy concoctions and mesmerized with their craft mastery. And although drinking has probably gone up, it's been a tough year for those in the bar industry. ⠀
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It was so fun to meet PJ Smerechansky @the_alcohol_alchemist during a visit to @theedisonfla a few years ago. He wowed us with inventive takes on classic cocktails like this fantastic @basilhaydens Old Fashioned garnished with a fragrant basil leaf. ⠀
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I'm not surprised to learn PJ is in the "Top 50 Bartenders" in the country, currently competing in the @usbg @worldclassus competition sponsored by @diageo to be named "Bartender of The Year"! ⠀
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He's already a winner in my book but let's cheer him on to bring this title home to Orlando! ⠀
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Go visit him at The Edison at @disneysprings Thursday-Sunday's and ask him to make you something special from his new "High Roller" menu! ⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #WorldClass2021 #TheEdisonFlorida #DisneySprings #BartenderLife
“I cook with wine. Sometimes I even add it to th “I cook with wine. Sometimes I even add it to the food.”– W.C. Fields (hosted)⠀
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It’s #NationalDrinkWineDay or simply #ThirstyThursday 🤣🍷 What’s your go-to wine? ⠀
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For every day, casual fun, I choose no-fuss wines that drink well on their own and pair with whatever we got on the table. A bottle of Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or a red blend always do the trick.⠀
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That’s why we love @ckmondaviwines and why I’ve continued to be a proud ambassador of their wines for over 5 years. They just celebrated 75 years making wine for 4 generations and the people behind the brand are the nicest.⠀
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Here’s my other go-to for easy entertaining:⠀
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A Caprese Salad with vine ripe tomatoes and fresh Orlando local made @freshmozzarellausa by the Dicuro family (also the nicest people!)⠀
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Top with fresh herb chimichurri sauce and serve with a Tuscan loaf of bread. ⠀
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👉🏼 Go to GoEpicurista.com and get the recipe for this awesome fresh herb sauce that goes on everything! Trust me. Level up steaks, fish, chicken, and veggies! ⠀
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#GOepicRecipes #MakeSomedayHappen #DrinkWineDay ⠀
#CKMondaviWines
"Life is full of surprises, but the biggest one of "Life is full of surprises, but the biggest one of all is learning what it takes to handle them." - Deborah Wiles (hosted)⠀
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Life is indeed full of surprises. And how we handle them makes all the difference in the world. We're wearing different kinds of masks this Mardi Gras and having a different kind of celebration but I'm grateful to know that someday soon we'll be able to let the good times roll once again.⠀
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This photo is a #TBT to February 2020 Mardi Gras celebration at @UniversalOrlando. Little did we know then that masks would become part of our daily wear. I couldn't even wear that one right! LOL! ⠀
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Universal's Mardi Gras events have been my favorite for over 20 years. This year, they are hosting a more subdued, socially distanced appropriate "International Flavors of Carnaval" event featuring authentic cuisine inspired by the most iconic Carnival festivities across the globe. Now thru Sunday 3/28, regular admission to Universal Studios park includes fun and safe festivities. Purchase and sample 70 tasty dishes and beverages from 13 destinations around the world. ⠀
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Of course, there's Cajun fare with flavors from The Big Easy like Crawfish Boil, Jambalaya, and Beignets! You'll also find Classic Carnaval dishes from Puerto Rico, Trinidad and Tobago, Bahamas, Germany, Spain, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Cuba, Italy, France and more!⠀
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Check out the Mardi Gras floats stationed throughout the theme park, enjoy a Big Easy bash in the streets with energetic dancers and stilt performers in extraordinary costumes, brass band musicians, countless beads and a newly-themed Mardi Gras Tribute Store.⠀
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Stay safe, Be kind. Wear a Mask! ⠀
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"Laissez Les Bons Temps Rouler" (but safely!)⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen⠀
#UniversalMoments #ReadyforUniversal #MardiGras #FatTuesday
“If you are lucky enough to have lived in Paris “If you are lucky enough to have lived in Paris as a young man, then wherever you go for the rest of your life it stays with you, for Paris is a moveable feast.” - Ernest Hemingway (hosted) ⠀
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During my recent visit to French bakery @choulalapastries this yummy pastry caught my eye: “Maple Bourbon Paris Brest” ⠀
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Have you tried a Paris Brest? I had to google what it was! ⠀
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The choux pastry shaped like a wheel is traditionally filled with praline flavored cream. It was invented by Louis Durand, pâtissier of Maisons-Laffitte, in 1910 to promote the bicycle race from Paris to Brest, a town in the north west of France. ⠀
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You can certainly say this is a “moveable feast”! ⠀
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At Choulala, @chefstephsteph fills the flaky pastry with a decadent Maple Bourbon cream, topped with lots of crunchy toasted almonds and powdered sugar. It was such a lovely contrast of flavors and textures. ⠀
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Paris is on my Top 5 places to visit someday. For now I’ll let my taste buds take me there and maybe I’ll find the time to finally read Hemingway’s beloved memoir about his time in Paris there for added travel inspiration. ⠀
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It’s #NationalAlmondDay what’s your favorite almond topped treat? ⠀
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Stop by Choulala (like ooh la la!) at one of 3 locations and have a Paris inspired feast! ⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #ChoulalaFinePastries #MakeSomedayHappen #WinterParkFL #LoveOrlando
“You know I have never met a woman who is not st “You know I have never met a woman who is not strong. They don’t exist.” - Diane Von Furstenberg ⠀
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As 2021 keeps rolling along, I continue to turn to amazing female entrepreneurs for a bit of food, travel and entrepreneurship inspiration. Luckily, Orlando has so many strong women to know and I’m just getting started in my series about “Inspiring Women in the Orlando Food Industry” on GoEpicurista.com ⠀
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My latest chat is with Sue Buttery, the dynamic owner of @juicebarorlando in @TheMilkDistrict ⠀
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She had some awesome tips about clean eating and how to do a juice cleanse right. She shared her travel dreams, what tops her “someday list” and fantastic entrepreneurship advice. ⠀
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If like me, you’ve indulged a bit too much recently, fresh juices, healthy bites and a bit of wellness inspiration is just what we need to start the week on a positively feel-good kick!⠀
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👉🏼 Check out the blog (link in bio) and #MakeSomedayHappen ⠀
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👩🏻‍🍳 Don’t miss previous chats with @pompomsteahouse @SisterHoneys @eatprojectpop @bcupcake ⠀
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#GOepicOrlando #JuiceBarOrlando #WomenSupportingWomen #WomenEntrepreneurs
“Moons and Junes and ferris wheels⠀ The dizzy “Moons and Junes and ferris wheels⠀
The dizzy dancing way that you feel⠀
As every fairy tale comes real⠀
I've looked at love that way.” - Joni Mitchell (hosted)⠀
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Happy Valentine’s Day everyone! Whether you’re celebrating with your bae, your bestie, your kids or on your own. Today is about loving life! Enjoy it! 💕 ⠀
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Did you know today is also “National Ferris Wheel Day”? It celebrates George Washington Gale Ferris Jr., the man who invented the Ferris Wheel for the 1893 World’s Fair. His invention was a success and lives on today with iconic ones in London, Singapore and now Orlando’s ICON Park! ⠀
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@iconparkorlando is a fantastic date destination in Orlando. Dine at one of 40 restaurants including my favorite for Spanish tapas @tapatoroorlando and then reserve a private capsule on The Wheel to get the best views of The City Beautiful. ⠀
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👉🏼 Check out  special offers on their website and inquire with restaurants for discounts to attractions after you dine. ⠀
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Where are you celebrating today? #MakeSomedayHappen 💕⠀
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#GOepicOrlando #IconParkOrlando #NationalFerrisWheelDay #ValentinesDay
“No matter how hard the past, you can always beg “No matter how hard the past, you can always begin again.” — Buddha (hosted)⠀
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I love celebrating the Lunar New Year! We get a second chance to begin the year again! ⠀
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Our friends at @eathawkers Hawkers Asian Street Food are celebrating in a fun and safe way this year with the “Hawkers Ox Box To Go” available now through Friday 2/26 during the 15 day Lunar NY celebration.⠀
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It’s such a thoughtfully composed box. Inside is everything you need to celebrate! And I love how each dish is labeled! ⠀
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The 6 dishes considered “lucky” traditionally eaten on Lunar New Year celebrations: ⠀
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🥡 Singapore Mei Fun noodles bring longevity & prosperity⠀
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🥢 Chicken Lo Mein brings longevity & happiness⠀
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🥡 Yi-Yi’s Chicken Dumplings bring wealth & treasure⠀
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🥢 Spring Rolls bring wealth & prosperity⠀
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🥡 Hawker’s Delight brings health & well-being⠀
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🥢 Sugared Donuts with Orange Glaze brings fullness & fortune⠀
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The box also includes: ⠀
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🎉 A confetti popper to represent the fireworks enjoyed on Lunar New Year to ward off evil and bad omens. ⠀
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🎉 A QR code with access to a private video of the traditional Lion Dance performance. ⠀
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🎉 An info-card full of fun facts & details about Lunar New Year and how to celebrate at home. ⠀
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🎉 Hóngbāo, the traditional red envelope, which includes the chance to win a variety of gifts including complimentary Roti Canai and FREE HAWKERS TAKEOUT FOR A YEAR!⠀
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Order at EatHawkers.com for takeout & delivery for the lucky numbers price of $36.88! ⠀
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PS: Be sure to add some Vietnamese Iced Coffee to your order for an extra caffeine boost! I always do! It’s sooo yummy!⠀
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Happy Lunar New Year! ⠀
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#GOepicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #EatHawkers #LunarNewYear
"Let us be grateful to people who make us happy." "Let us be grateful to people who make us happy." - Marcel Proust (hosted)⠀
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What makes you happy? 😄⠀
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Two things make me happy: sweets and friends! 💕 I’m so grateful I found both at @choulalapastries in Winter Park. ⠀
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I finally met @chefstephsteph in person after drooling over her fantastic macarons and pastries for years! I first tried them during my staycation at @wyndhamgrandorl and fell in love. Stephanie is originally from Oregon like me, and it was so fun to meet her at the Park Avenue bakery. She’s dynamic so expect to hear more about her in future posts! ⠀
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These gorgeous Choulala macarons, chou puff pastries, eclairs, and entremets with some bubbles are the perfect way to celebrate any day of the week! ⠀
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💕 If you're looking for ideas for this Galentine's or Valentine's Day, check out my post Top 9 Ways To Celebrate Valentine’s and My Epic Guide for an easy French-themed movie night at home on GoEpicurista.com and pick up a box of assorted treats at Choulala. ⠀
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One eclair, 3 macarons and 3 chou pastries in a cute little box are only $18! It makes a great gift too! ⠀
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Here's what I had so you can get inspired. Flavors change frequently! ⠀
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White Plate: Pina Colada, Black Forest and Amaretto Macaron, S'mores Eclair topped with marshmallows and chocolate drizzle and Bananas Foster, Fruity Pebbles, and Lemon Meringue chou puff pastry⠀
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Paris Plate: Pistachio and PB&J macarons, Lychee Rose and Mango chou puff pastries⠀
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Board: Lavender and Lemon Poppy Seed Macaron, Creme Brulee and Key Lime pie chou puff pastry, Tiramisu entremet. ⠀
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👉🏼 Tag your favorite person in the comments and have a sweet weekend! 💕⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #ChoulalaFinePastries #WinterParkFL #LoveOrlando #ValentinesWeekend
"I love pizza; you can't really go wrong with pizz "I love pizza; you can't really go wrong with pizza." - Nick Jonas ⠀
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Nick is spot on! Yesterday was #NationalPizzaDay but I think every day is a good day for pizza! 🍕⠀
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Tell me are you a 🥩 meat lover, 🥗 veggie head, 🍳 foodie with an egg on top, or🧀 classic cheese when ordering pizza? ⠀
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Let’s talk about a few of my favorite pizzas around Orlando for inspiration:⠀
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🍕Kissimmee:  @caponespizzakissimmee in @PromenadeatSunsetWalk - Al's Carne Grande was a meat lover's dream! Fun date night spot which I featured in an article for @experiencekissimmee ⠀
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🍕 Hunter's Creek: @pienezzapizza Angie’s veggie pizza and Meat Monster because I like veggies and hubby likes all the meats. ⠀
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🍕 Lake Nona: @parkpizzalakenona Pepperoni Picante and Med Veg (do you spot the trend for our pizza nights?) 🤣 ⠀
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🍕 Winter Park:  @sixtyvineswinterpark a classic Margherita with pepperoni never goes out of style! ⠀
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🍕 Park Ave: @pratowp Widowmaker! When you know you know why this one makes every best pizza list! ⠀
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🍕 Disney Springs: @blazepizza Veg Out! (I love the make your own option too!) ⠀
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🍕 SoDo: @official_pizza_bruno the best in town. The one every pizza lover should try at least once in their life! ⠀
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There’s quite a few new pizzas in town that I haven’t had a chance to try but are on my list thanks to @amydroo @orlando.foodie,  @bebefehr @orlandomag and @faiyazkara @orlandoweekly Pizza stories! ⠀
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Do you have a favorite pizza spot? Let me know in the comments, because pizza makes every day better!⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #PizzaDay #LoveOrlando
"Shine bright like a diamond. Find light in the be "Shine bright like a diamond. Find light in the beautiful sea. I choose to be happy." - Rihanna (hosted)⠀
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Congratulations to Fred and the team at @reelfishcoastal in Winter Park on celebrating their 4th Anniversary today! ⠀
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RiRi must have been singing about the awesome "Get Reel Happy Hour" - it's one of the best #HappyHour for foodies in Orlando! If you haven't been,  make plans and go check it out! ⠀
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In celebration of their anniversary today, don your favorite sailor attire and don't miss a special themed "Yacht Rock Happy Hour" from 4 pm - 7 pm with @dj50one50 ⠀
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Their Happy Hour Tuesday - Friday includes awesome food and drink specials (scroll to see fish tacos, oysters & they have non seafood options too like chicken sliders and chicken tacos!!):⠀
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$4 Select Draft Beers, Premium Well Drinks, ⠀
$4 Oyster Shooter, with Vodka or Tequila⠀
$5 Select Wines by the Glass, Sangria & Select Specialty Cocktails including the Seaside Margarita, Sunset Sangria (my favorite)⠀
$6 Half-Dozen Gulf Oysters, Raw or Baked, Two Baja-Style Fish or Shrimp Tacos, Hand-Battered Fried Clam Strips Basket⠀
$7 Two Burger or Chicken Sliders ⠀
$8 Firecracker Shrimp, Half-Pound Peel & Eat Mayport Shrimp ⠀
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Stay for dinner, enjoy this week's Lobster Fest Anniversary Special: All day, Tue 2/9 - Thur 2/11,  1.5 lb Maine Lobster with baked potato, coleslaw & drawn butter for only $39! (Market price is $50) ⠀
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Choose Happy! Go #MakeSomedayHappen⠀
#GoEpicOrlando #ReelFishCoastalKitchen #LoveOrlando
"All you need is love. But a little chocolate now "All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn't hurt." - Charles M. Schulz (hosted)⠀
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We had the most decadent dinner at A Land Remembered, the fine dining restaurant at @rosenshinglecreek which ended with this indulgent flourless chocolate mousse cake!⠀
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We took advantage to enjoy the great weather we’re having and sat outdoors on the veranda overlooking the beautiful grounds and golf course. It felt like being back home. ⠀
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The flagship resort of beloved local hotel company @rosenhotels had been closed since the pandemic began last March and just reopened this week. Yet the restaurant staff did not skip a beat, providing the same exceptional service and expertly executed dishes they've been known for since they opened in 2006. ⠀
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ALR (A Land Remembered) is one of the hidden gem restaurants in Orlando that locals may forget because it's tucked inside this sprawling resort. If you haven't been, it's time to go! ⠀
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Scroll to see our scrumptious dinner. We started with scallops and the best jumbo lump crab cake in town. Followed by lobster bisque & wedge salad. For entrees, the Surf & Turf with Filet and Lobster and the buttery Sea Bass with Lobster Mac n' Cheese and asparagus on the side. We were stuffed but could not skip the bread pudding with rum raisin ice cream and that decadent cake! ⠀
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If you're looking for a wonderful restaurant for a romantic date night, whether this Valentine's weekend or any time, make reservations. Check stories for a 25% discount coupon especially for GoEpicurista. ⠀
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They are following “Rosen's Total Commitment" extensive safety protocols. Temperature checks, mask required upon entry and we noticed constant cleaning by the staff. ⠀
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💕 Special Valentine's Menu available Thur. 2/11 - Sun. 2/14. Make it a full weekend getaway with special overnight package and spa treatments at The Spa at Shingle Creek with complimentary bubbles and 25% discount.⠀
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Read more about Rosen Shingle Creek on GoEpicurista.com - I've written about the 9 reasons foodies love it and named it one of the best Orlando resort for foodies to visit. ⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #RosenShingleCreek
"I have the right to life, liberty and chicken win "I have the right to life, liberty and chicken wings." - Mindy Kaling⠀
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It's Super Bowl Sunday! The biggest chicken wing consuming day of the year! Fun Fact: over 1.25 BILLION wings are consumed on this day alone in the US! ⠀
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As much as I love traditional Buffalo wings, here are a few favorite wings around Orlando with a unique global flair and one classic Buffalo that left my lips on fire, craving more! ⠀
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@ssontheroll in @historicdowntownsanford Korean style crispy wings are packed with flavor! Enjoy in the patio with a cold beer from @celerycitycraft⠀
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@yeomanscaskandlion "Cambridge Wings" are addictive at this British pub in @promenadeatsunsetwalk in Kissimmee! Slow oven baked then seared on the grill, tossed in Buffalo sauce or my favorite, Coconut Curry Sauce. Pair with a crisp cider or Boddington's on tap. ⠀
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@domufl in EastEndMkt wings have become so popular they now have @DomuWings virtual delivery!  Extra Extra Crispy coated in kimchi butter sauce. Addictive like candy! Pair with Sriracha Bloody Mary for brunch!⠀
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@eathawkers Korean twice-fried wings in garlic gochujang, topped with peanuts, cilantro and sesame are the bomb! Also get Hawker's Wings with sweet Thai chili, Hainanese, honey sriracha, spring onion ginger or a five-spice rub. Pair with Sapporo beer.⠀
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@raglanroadpub at @disneysprings "Nom Nom" sweet 'n' spicy wings tossed in a honey, chili flake, soy & ginger sauce. Pair with Guinness of course! ⠀
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@parkpizzalakenona Oak-Fired Chicken Wings Reverse Buffalo (my favorite), Cajun, Sticky Thai, Carolina Reaper, or Mango Habanero. Pair with a house-crafted beer. ⠀
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Yuzu Miso Wings at @japanpavilionmitsukoshiusa Katsura Grill at Epcot, a peaceful hidden gem to grab a bite. ⠀
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1521 Wings at @wyndhamgrandorl Resort were fiery good! The kind you can smell spicy before you take a bite. The kind you take bite after bite. They also have sweet & sticky and bourbon BBQ if you don't want to set your soul on fire. (but in a good way!) ⠀
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Lastly, for plant-based meat-free eaters, @DharmaFineVittles at @marketonsouth Fried Chick'n dippers with agave pepper drizzle fooled me!!⠀
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Which wings will you go for?⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen
"It's never too early for ice cream." - Michael Sc "It's never too early for ice cream." - Michael Scott (hosted)⠀
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Did you know the first Saturday in February is #IceCreamforBreakfastDay?! I think any time and any weather is a good time for ice cream! ⠀
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I had a little fun during a recent visit to @sweetbyholly to pick up some scrumptious cupcakes and couldn't resist getting a soft serve ice cream topped with Nutella and caramel drizzle, and chocolate and caramel pearls. ⠀
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Don't miss getting an ice cream sundae made with "Chill In Peace" Premium Ice Cream from Santa Monica, California.  There are 8 flavors, 8 toppings and 8 drizzles to choose from. Each serving comes with 2 drizzles and 2 toppings!⠀
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I also had some fun with colored backgrounds taking pictures of my ice cream! Scroll to see... which one do you like best? Red, Blue, Black... ⠀
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Happy Saturday Everyone! ⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #SweetByHolly #IceCream #LoveOrlando
"Among the things you can give and still keep are "Among the things you can give and still keep are your word, a smile, and a grateful heart." - Zig Ziglar⠀
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Kindness. Smiles. Decadent Desserts! Every day is a new opportunity to share! I hope your day is full of joy.⠀
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If you want to do something nice for your favorite person, go get an assortment of cakes and pies at @SisterHoneys in the SoDo District. ⠀
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Here’s a little secret: If you truly want a way to a girl's heart, I promise you cakes and pies are better than flowers! 😉 ⠀
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Today is #WearRedDay in support of the American Heart Association, so I have to place a disclaimer here: "Enjoy all in moderation!" ⠀
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I'm so honored to be able to share the inspiring entrepreneurial stories of strong and bold women I admire. I recently published an article about Sister Honey's owner and chef Evette Rahman on GoEpicurista.com  Check it out. I promise you'll be inspired, and hungry for some of the best cakes and pies in Orlando!⠀
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Happy Friday! ⠀
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#MakeSomedayHappen⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #SisterHoneys #BlackWomenOwnedBusiness #InspiringWomen #LoveOrlando
"Life is very simple. What I give out comes back t "Life is very simple. What I give out comes back to me. Today, I choose to give love." - Louise Hay (hosted) 💕 ⠀
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Give love, share tapas! Whether you're looking for a romantic date night or a fun night out with your besties, you'll want to check out @tapatoroorlando at @iconparkorlando⠀
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We had such a fun night out at one of our favorite Spanish restaurants in Orlando. We sat outdoors and watched the Orlando Eye lit up. Sipped tasty cocktails - Zaragoza Spritz with Aperol, Cava & blackberry brandy and Paloma de Majorca with Avion Tequila & Q Grapefruit soda. ⠀
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We also sampled a few courses from their upcoming Valentine's Day Dinner Suf & Turf menu. The "Pan con Tomate" Tomato-Rubbed Bread with Iberico ham was so tasty paired with Cava Rose. The Surf & Turf with filet, lobster tail, cheesy mashed potatoes and asparagus was divine. ⠀
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👉🏼 Make reservations! The four-course Surf & Turf meal for $85 per couple (plus tax & gratuity) is available Friday 2/12 - Sunday 2/14 and includes:⠀
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💕 Tomato-Rubbed Bread with Iberico Ham⠀
💕 Shrimp Cocktail⠀
💕 Surf & Turf Platter with Filet & Lobster Tail⠀
💕 Chocolate Lava Cake⠀
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Tapa Toro is also offering fun Grazing Boards: a "Smashing Heart", Savory Snack Board, or Sweet Treats Board available for pickup February 12 - 14 at Tapa Toro.⠀
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On Valentine's Day, Sunday 2/14, enjoy brunch from 11am to 3pm with free mimosa with the purchase of any brunch entree. ⠀
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Tapa Toro also has a takeout option if you prefer to dine at home. ⠀
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Share The Love and The Tapas!⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #TapaToroOrlando #IconParkOrlando #LoveOrlando
“Never say never, because limits, like fears, ar “Never say never, because limits, like fears, are often just an illusion.” - Michael Jordan (hosted) ⠀
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Just hold on! Illusions are all around us! And while #GroundhogDay tells us we have 6 more weeks of winter, there’s plenty of fun to be had in Orlando. ⠀
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I was invited to check out the new @museumofillusions.orlando at @iconparkorlando on I-Drive and oh my, what a mind-bending experience that was! ⠀
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We had a blast checking out over 50 exhibits that fool the eye and the mind using math, psychology, and science. Of course, taking these fun photos was hilarious. Scroll to see our favorite illusions! ⠀
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It made for perfect date night fun after our dinner next door at @tapatoroorlando and it's a fun experience for the whole family. They call this “Edutainment” 😃⠀
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A variety of COVID-19 safety measures are in place, including mandatory face masks, limited capacity, designated time slots reservations, one-way paths through exhibits, ongoing cleaning by staff, and hand sanitizers and wipes for guests. The experience lasted about an hour but you can be there a bit longer.⠀
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This is the first Florida outpost and 20th location for the rapidly-expanding Museum of Illusions brand that started in Zagreb, Croatia in 2015. Follow them on social media for special promotions and more information.⠀
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“Don't part with your illusions. When they are gone, you may still exist, but you have ceased to live.” - Mark Twain⠀
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Go #MakeSomedayHappen⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #museumofillusionsorlando #moiFL15 #loveorlando
One Night Only!!! If you love really good Thai foo One Night Only!!! If you love really good Thai food, you don't want to miss the "Pomisaan" Pop-Up at @pompomsteahouse tonight 2/1! ⠀
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Chef / Owner Pom Moongauklang, the fiery force behind award-winning, Pom Pom’s Teahouse is taking over her own kitchen, setting aside the sandwich press and creating a dinner feast from Isaan, the Northern Thailand region where she grew up.⠀
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"Don't call it "Thai" - Call it Isaan!" She tells me. The cuisine is different from what we normally find in Thai restaurants with a Bangkok influence. In the northern region, they use more herbs, roots & spices. It's very healthy "good for you" food. ⠀
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I had the chance to taste the Pomisaan dishes during a visit to her commissary kitchen & had a tough time choosing a favorite. They were all bright, light, and full of flavor. The kind you just want to take one more bite. ⠀
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If this pop up goes well, there may be more in the future. Go show your support. Orlando's culinary scene needs this kind of food for more than one night! ⠀
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KAO MUN GAI: steamed chicken, topped with roasted garlic, cilantro, scallions, served on a bed of ginger jasmine rice. Fermented soybean and homemade sweet chili dipping sauces, Nappa cabbage, vegetable soup side. ⠀
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K-NOM  JEEN “Thai spaghetti” fish pureed with lemongrass, turmeric, krachai ginger root, coconut milk, fish sauce, coconut cream, served with fresh bean sprouts, kaffir lime, Thai basil, rice vermicelli. ⠀
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HA MOK PLA steamed in banana leaf, red curry fish made with kaffir lime, with coconut cream with Nappa cabbage, ginger rice. Fantastic, very concentrated flavors intended to eat in7-10 bites. ​⠀
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LAAB with a blend of fresh maitake, shiitake, and enoki mushrooms, lime, mint, cilantro, cilantro, scallions, red onions, sweet soy, fermented soy roasted rice.⠀
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KUAY TIEW HAENG (goy tew hank) cold rice noodle street food style with mushroom soy, bean sprouts, cilantro, scallions, cilantro, roasted garlic. ⠀
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Visit GoEpicurista.com for an inspiring conversation with Pom. We chatted about food, travel, someday lists, and entrepreneurial inspiration. You don't want to miss it! ⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen
“Life is what happens to us while we are making “Life is what happens to us while we are making other plans." - Allen Saunders (ad) ⠀
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Boy are we being constantly reminded “life happens!”⠀
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This month, I was planning to celebrate BIG. It’s the 7th Anniversary of GoEpicurista.com and I had so many projects and goals. Unfortunately untold setbacks, major plumbing issues, car troubles and a host of other challenges completely derailed my best laid plans. It was one thing after another. I had to keep reminding myself setbacks are temporary. ⠀
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Creating memories and spending time with loved ones, celebrating every day, is truly the most important. So we found the time within the chaos to make a fun dinner, open a bottle of wine and celebrate! ⠀
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I made my go-to chimichurri style fresh herb sauce I’ve been making for years to elevate any dish and used it on grilled surf & turf, veggies, Caprese salad and crusty Tuscan bread. ⠀
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It all came together in about 15 minutes! The sauce is super versatile using fresh herbs and ingredients you have at home to adapt to your tastes. ⠀
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And the sauce that goes with everything, deserves the wine that pairs with everything! ⠀
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CK Mondavi & Family are celebrating their 75th Anniversary!!! Their wines at $6.99 are phenomenally approachable and affordable with great quality and value. Perfect to enjoy any time. ⠀
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It’s the reason I’ve been a @ckmondaviwines ambassador since 2016! We drink these at home all the time, especially the Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.⠀
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👉🏼 Check out GoEpicurista.com for the herb sauce recipe and a bunch of ways you can use it to take everything from avocado toast to grilled meats, seafood and veggies to the next level!⠀
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This is Easy Entertaining. Especially for when life happens! ⠀
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Celebrate every day! ⠀
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#GoEpicRecipes #MakeSomedayHappen ⠀
#CelebratewithCKMondavi #CKM75years ⠀
#CKMondaviWines
“Let's face it, a nice creamy chocolate cake doe “Let's face it, a nice creamy chocolate cake does a lot for a lot of people; it does for me.” - Audrey Hepburn (hosted)⠀
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Aah this chocolate cake is so dreamy. And rich and all sorts of yummy. Perfect ending to a delightful steak and seafood dinner at deep blu seafood grille at @wyndhamgrandorl ⠀
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Who wants a bite?⠀
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Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort at Bonnet Creek is one of my favorite Orlando Resorts for Foodie Getaways. ⠀
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👉🏼 Check out the full list on the blog and all the delicious reasons why you want to #PlanForVacation at this fantastic resort. This chocolate cake is one of them! ⠀
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Celebrate #NationalChocolateCakeDay and #MakeSomedayHappen ⠀
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#GOepicOrlando #LiveGrand #LoveOrlando
"Wish I Was Here!" - Everyone⠀ ⠀ Are you dream "Wish I Was Here!" - Everyone⠀
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Are you dreaming of getting away? Sipping Prosecco pop cocktails by the pool, indulging in a gorgeously prepared dinner with wine pairings, relaxing spa treatments and floating down the lazy river? ⠀
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I know I am! ⠀
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It’s time to #PlanForVacation and have something fun to look forward to for when you’re ready to travel. ⠀
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👉🏼 Check out GoEpicurista.com for the best Orlando Resorts for Epic Foodie Getaways! ⠀
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Did you know the last Tuesday in January is "National Plan For Vacation Day"? It's a day that encourages all Americans to plan their time off.⠀
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These resorts have all implemented extensive health and safety procedures to ensure our peace of mind and relaxation. Of course, we need to do our part as well to wear face masks and maintain social distance - but there's plenty of space to spread out in these gorgeous resorts!⠀
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Best of all, they have THE BEST foodie experiences in Orlando! Scroll to see just a few you can look forward to: ⠀
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🥂 A private cabana and Prosecco Pop cocktails by the pool at @waldorforlando is a glorious way to spend an afternoon! ⠀
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🍹 Sip the best Gin & Tonic with a view at Capa Steakhouse at @fsorlando ⠀
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🍽 Dine at one of USA Today’s best new restaurants in the country, Knife & Spoon by award-winning @chefjohntesar at @RitzCarltonOrlando (the entire meal including the coffee service was an unexpected surprise!) ⠀
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🍹Dig into the best lump crab guacamole made table-side and giant margaritas at Mi Casa Tequila at @RosenShingleCreek ⠀
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🍹 Escape via your taste buds to the Caribbean with rum paired dinners at Strong Water Tavern at Sapphire Falls in @universalorlandohotels ⠀
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🍽 Enjoy fantastic seafood like this decadent crab mac n’ cheese at deep blu seafood grille at @WyndhamGrandOrl ⠀
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I hope you’ll find some inspiration to plan your next foodie getaway and  #TravelConfidently ⠀
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#MakeSomedayHappen #GoEpicOrlando #LoveOrlando
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CK Mondavi Ambassador

CK Mondavi Ambassador

Proud to be a 2021 CK Mondavi Ambassador! Follow #CKMondaviAmbassador and #CKMondaviWines for recipes and wine pairing tips.

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What is Go Epicurista?

Your source for inspiration to take time out of your busy schedule and celebrate great food and wine experiences with friends everywhere you go! Let’s talk about Restaurants, Unique Events and Travel Experiences that belong on your “someday list.”

Don’t put off enjoying life with friends until someday. #MakeSomedayHappen Go Epicurista!

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Recent Posts

  • Healthy Bites and Inspiration at Juice Bar in Orlando
  • Sandwiches, Pop-Ups and Entrepreneurial Inspiration with Pom Pom’s Teahouse
  • Easy Fresh Herb Sauce to Elevate Every Dish and The Wine That Pairs With Everything
  • Best Orlando Resorts For Epic Foodie Getaways
  • Award-Winning Desserts and Sweet Inspiration at Sister Honey’s

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