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Travel through Food with Everglades Restaurant Wine Dinner

By Christina Thomas 16 Comments

Travel Through Food with Everglades Wine Dinner and www.goepicurista.com

A Journey from Coast to Coast Wine Dinner provided unforgettable memories and inspired travel dreams

Food tops many travelers’ agendas. The question I receive most frequently from friends going on a trip is “where should I eat” because they know my love of researching foods in different destinations. I want to know what’s popular, what’s iconic, and what’s a must-eat in a city before I travel and have been putting together Must Eat Lists for years. Whether it’s the first time or the 10th time I visit, you can bet I will have a list of new and favorite places to eat on every trip I take, even if it’s back home to Portland Oregon – a foodie mecca with a constantly evolving culinary scene.

Exploring and learning about a destination through its food is one of the most delicious and fun ways to learn about people and their culture. Who can go to New York and not have a famous slice of pizza or bagels with a schmear from the local deli? Not me! Or how about New Orlean’s beignets? Yum! You can’t miss these morsels of a city’s identity.

You don’t have to travel far. Exploring your own hometown is still considered “Food Tourism” according to the World Food Travel Association, and I couldn’t agree more. Since most of us can’t afford 365 days on the road, the next best thing is to travel through food at a local restaurant, and let them take you on a journey. Those local food experiences help inspire dreams of travel and hopefully will help you, like me, cross of those trips from your bucket list and #MakeSomedayHappen. Restaurant directories are often destination-oriented: Italian, French, German, Cuban, Vietnamese, Mexican Southern, etc. If you’ve dreamed of traveling to France, why not go to your local French restaurant and keep the dream alive? Some restaurants also have chefs who enjoy preparing special dinners themed around a destination. Those events are my favorite, and are often featured on my Top 9 Lists, because the chef has an opportunity to let loose and showcase their creativity.

Travel Through Food with Everglades Wine Dinner and www.goepicurista.com

Chef Fred Vlachos’ superpower is to transport you around the world in one night!

Orlando’s chef Fred Vlachos, inducted into the Orlando Culinary Hall of Fame, is an expert at creating five-course wine pairing menus for the popular Vine & Dine Wine Dinner series at Everglades Restaurant. His superpower is the ability to transport you from coast to coast and around the world in one night. During my 2014 12 days of Birthday Celebrations, I chose their “Journey From Coast to Coast” Wine Dinner as one of my 12 celebrations and what a special birthday treat that was. Looking at the pictures, I am instantly transported once again. Those flavor memories will be with me always.

Travel Through Food with Everglades Wine Dinner and www.goepicurista.com

A delicious journey from Coast to Coast

We started in Key West Florida with succulent Stone Crab Claws topped with a spicy key lime aioli sauce, presented beautifully in a coconut shell atop a Wakame salad. Looking at that plate, all I could think of was the sounds of the ocean waves, my toes in the sand and the warm breeze in my hair. The dish was paired with King Estate Pinot Gris from Oregon, effectively taking me from the East to West coast with each sip and back with each bite. This was my favorite pairing of the night as it combined by two favorite U.S. destinations, Florida and Oregon.

Travel Through Food with Everglades Wine Dinner and www.goepicurista.com

Look at this and imagine you are in Key West!

Our next stop was New Orleans Louisiana, the land of award-winning cuisine, for their famous Étouffée. This spicy Cajun stew of seafood and vegetables in a dark roux served over rice had the perfect amount of spice, topped beautifully with a crawfish and citrus cracker. The fruity sweetness of the Pacific Rim Sweet Riesling from Columbia Valley was a welcome contrast to the spiciness of the dish. I can’t wait to visit New Orleans again!

Travel Through Food with Everglades Wine Dinner and www.goepicurista.com

From the bayous of Louisiana!

As an intermezzo, we cleansed our palates with a refreshing Florida Strawberry and Black Pepper Sorbet. I love the use of pepper in fruit dishes as it always gives the fruity flavors a pop. I could have eaten several servings, it was so good.

Travel Through Food with Everglades Wine Dinner and www.goepicurista.com

Visit Plant City Florida for their sweet strawberries!

We continued our travels across America as the main course arrived – Venison with Blackberry Chipotle Pepper demi-glace, served with sweet potato mash and fiddlehead ferns with wildflowers. It was as if Chef Fred stopped on the side of the road to handpick the greens, they gave a pleasing crunch and freshness to the savory dish. Everglades is one of the few restaurants in Orlando to serve game. You will find Venison and Buffalo filet on their regular menu and this venison was cooked to perfection. The sauce had a sweet ‘jamminess’ with a touch of heat from the chipotle, which complemented the rich flavors of the venison. The sweet and spicy flavor combinations were a recurrent theme in this dinner, much to my delight. The dish was paired with Kuleto Estate Native Son from Napa Valley California, a red blend of Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese. The deep black and red fruit flavors of cherries and currants with a touch of pepper and tobacco provided a balanced pairing.

Travel Through Food with Everglades Wine Dinner and www.goepicurista.com

Venison is a specialty of Everglades Restaurant

Our final destination was Washington State, known for their deliciously juicy apples and pears. Pastry chef Stephan Schmidt prepared a Red Wine Poached Apples and Pears dessert that had us all ‘oohing’ and ‘aahing’ when it arrived at the table. The wine-soaked fruit was masterfully arranged atop a rich dark chocolate mascarpone mousse with a meringue center surprise, which provided a wonderful combination of creamy and crunchy textures and flavors. The dish was paired with Fonseca 10 year old Tawny port, now taking us from the west coast of the United States to the coast of Portugal, in just one sip.

Travel Through Food with Everglades Wine Dinner and www.goepicurista.com

A special birthday treat taking me to the Pacific Northwest & Portugal!

Everglades Restaurant Vine & Dine Wine Dinner series returns on January 30th

The team at Everglades Restaurant, located at the beautiful Rosen Centre Hotel in Orlando, has been wowing a loyal following at these Vine & Dine Wine Dinner Events for over 8 years. I must disclose that I helped create this wine dinner series, when I was the hotel’s Resident Manager overseeing their Food & Beverage department, and I couldn’t be more proud to see them continue such a creative culinary endeavor. It was always so much fun to create these events with the team and then sit down and enjoy the amazing food and wines with our guests.

Everglades Restaurant kicks off the 2015 Vine & Dine Wine Dinner series on Friday January 30th and I encourage you to GO make your reservation and experience travel through food. Chef Fred Vlachos, restaurant manager Gabriela Henry and their team are sure to impress you with their talent and hospitality. Each event starts with a welcome reception wine or cocktail in the Everglades bar. The five course dinner is hosted by an expert wine speaker or Sommelier to guide you through the wine selections. Cost is $75 per person plus tax and service charge and includes complimentary valet parking. Special room rates are also offered based on availability for those that want to make an evening of it. Call 407-995-8560 for reservations as space is limited.

    ^ January 30: “Hunters & Gatherers” themed dinner with a menu of wild game and rustic flavors paired with Frog’s Leap Winery wines.
    ^ March 20: “Cooking with Wine” themed dinner where a featured ingredient in each dish will be the same varietal of wine it is paired with. You get double the wine!
    ^ May 22: “A Mycologist’s Dream” themed dinner paired with champagne. If you love mushrooms and you love bubbles, this is the event for you!
    ^ October 9: “Love at First Bite” Halloween themed dinner. This was always my favorite dinner of the year and I can’t wait to see what ghoulish and delicious tricks and treats Chef Fred has up his sleeve.

Traveling through food is something you can do anywhere. I hope you are inspired to GO! Explore the world one delicious bite, sip and trip at a time and Make Someday Happen.

Cheers!

GO Epicurista

Everglades Restaurant is located at Rosen Centre Hotel, 9840 International Drive, Orlando FL. 407-996-9840.
Everglades Restaurant on Urbanspoon

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Filed Under: Go Travel & Dine Orlando Tagged With: California Wines, Everglades Restaurant, Fonseca Port, King Estate, Kuleto Estate, Oregon Wines, Orlando, Orlando Dining, Orlando Restaurant, Pacific Rim Riesling, Rosen Centre Hotel, travel, Vine & Dine, Wine Dinner, Wine Pairing, Wine Pairing Dinners

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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. Janeen @ Green Global Travel says

    06/03/2015 at 12:11 pm

    Amazing pictures of amazing food. Thanks for posting!

    Reply
    • Christina Thomas says

      06/03/2015 at 2:10 pm

      Thank you so much for checking out GO Epicurista! This was a fantastic dinner and one of the reasons I love taking food pictures. I get to relive that amazing experience every chance I get! Cheers!

      Reply
  2. Jen says

    01/30/2015 at 1:19 am

    Next time, take me with you to Key West!!

    Reply
    • Christina Thomas says

      02/01/2015 at 10:56 am

      Chef Fred in Everglades will take us there!

      Reply
  3. Fida says

    01/29/2015 at 9:48 pm

    Looks like you had an amazing time! Oh, and I LOVE fiddleheads! :).

    Reply
    • Christina Thomas says

      01/29/2015 at 10:53 pm

      It was wonderful! My first time trying fiddlehead ferns and they were surprisingly good. Loved the crunch! Thanks for stopping by GO Epicurista! Cheers!

      Reply
  4. Jeff Wetherington says

    01/29/2015 at 9:32 pm

    Those presentations and photos make all those dishes look so inviting! Great travels via food 🙂

    Reply
    • Christina Thomas says

      01/29/2015 at 10:54 pm

      Thank you so much Jeff! I appreciate you checking out GO Epicurista! Wishing you tasty travels!

      Reply
  5. Shelley says

    01/29/2015 at 4:42 pm

    That venison looks amazing!

    Reply
    • Christina Thomas says

      01/29/2015 at 4:44 pm

      They do a great job cooking game that doesn’t taste gamey. The venison and buffalo are my favorite, so tasty and really good for you too. Thanks Shelley for stopping by Go Epicurista! Cheers!

      Reply
  6. Renee @ Bendiful Blog says

    01/29/2015 at 3:27 pm

    OMG that food looks amazing! I’m always impressed when food looks almost too pretty to be eaten. Yummm some of these weeks courses sound too good to be true! Bring me a fork ASAP.

    Reply
    • Christina Thomas says

      01/29/2015 at 3:38 pm

      Looking at these pictures I got hungry all over again! I love beautiful presentations and the Everglades culinary team does a great job with looks and taste! Thanks Renee for stopping by GO Epicurista. Cheers!

      Reply
  7. Adriana Martin says

    01/29/2015 at 2:05 pm

    wow Christina all of these look like wonderful options nice article

    Reply
    • Christina Thomas says

      01/29/2015 at 3:36 pm

      Thank you Adriana. It’s going to be a delicious year at Everglades Restaurant. Better make reservations soon!

      Reply
  8. Kelly Green says

    01/29/2015 at 1:45 pm

    Thanks for the (virtual) culinary road trip!

    Reply
    • Christina Thomas says

      01/29/2015 at 3:36 pm

      Chef Fred is a master! I love culinary road trips even the virtual kind! Thanks for stopping by the blog Kelly. Cheers!

      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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Christina Thomas-Foodie Travel
“I think in terms of the day’s resolutions, no “I think in terms of the day’s resolutions, not the year’s.” — Henry Moore (hosted)⠀
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I decided this year not to set crazy unrealistic new year’s resolutions. I think I’m much happier for it! Every day I set my intentions and goals, and I think today is a good day to indulge! 🤣 ⠀
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The "Palate Coffee Bub Sundae" at @palate_bubsandicecream in @historicdowntownsanford combines my favorite treats, which I’ve tried to give up in the past and couldn’t! Coffee, chocolate and ice cream.⠀
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The made to order, warm and fluffy on the inside crispy on the outside, bubble waffle cone was filled with coffee and chocolate ice cream, chocolate covered espresso beans, chocolate sauce, whipped cream and EXTRA goodness!⠀
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The Kadolph / Lemmon family behind Palate Bubs & Ice Cream also own Sanford's favorite coffee shop @palatecoffeebrewery across the street and have continued their "Love Missions" with proceeds from both businesses funding initiatives to end human trafficking and help victims heal via @lovemissionsglobal. ⠀
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That’s a treat filled to the brim with goodness that you can feel good about indulging in!⠀
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Today is “Ditch The New Year’s Resolutions Day!” and here’s what I propose: ⠀
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🍦 Be kind to yourself. ⠀
🍦 Make progress towards your goals one step & one day at a time. ⠀
🍦 Celebrate each win! ⠀
💕 Reward yourself... and, indulge every once in a while! ⠀
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👉🏼 Read all about this and all the Sanford sweet treats we’ve discovered in an article Lisa Wilk of @tastecooksip and I wrote for HistoricDowntownSanford.com which will be published on Monday 1/18! ⠀
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You can also check out other fun articles we’ve written about all the foodie options to enjoy in this charming district for a day of #Sanfording, from cocktails to craft beer to healthy eats.⠀
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Go plan a Dessert Crawl in #HistoricDowntownSanford! #MakeSomedayHappen⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #palateicecream  #ditchthenewyearsresolutions
“I don’t know where I’m going from here, but “I don’t know where I’m going from here, but I promise it won’t be boring. — David Bowie (hosted)⠀
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You’ll never be bored with an @everglazed_fl treat in your hand. And if you love surprises, Get the Funky Chicken Sandwich or the Breakfast Sammie at this new donut shop in @disneysprings ⠀
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The decadent dessert-like donuts and cold brews might catch your attention first, but these fantastic sandwiches are the sleeper hits! ⠀⠀
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“Born and Glazed in Florida” big enough to share (if you want 😉) and served for breakfast ALL day. Great for those of us who love to eat breakfast late in the day.⠀
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Sandwiches are served on a buttery sweet bun or you can level up and get it on a griddled glazed donut for $1 more! ⠀
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👉🏼 Read all about this new donut shop delighting Disney fans on GoEpicurista.com ⠀
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Happy Weekend! ⠀
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#GOepicOrlando #GOepicDisney #MakeSomedayHappen #Everglazed #DisneySprings
“You’ll never get bored when you try something “You’ll never get bored when you try something new. There’s really no limit to what you can do.” — Dr. Seuss (hosted)⠀
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It’s never boring in @TheMilkDistrict and while it may be named after local landmark T.G. Lee Dairy factory, there’s a plethora of plant based and vegan options in this progressive neighborhood to get excited about! ⠀
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For #veganuary they’ve renamed it “The Almond Milk District” to encourage all of us to enjoy more meat-free and plant based foods, drinks and products. If you're vegan-curious, now’s the time to try something new! ⠀
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During a recent media tour, I was so delighted with all the tasty plant based options we found!⠀
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👉🏼 Go to GoEpicurista.com for a full review and list of all participating businesses! ⠀
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🍺 A variety of vegan beers and menu options including tasty sandwiches at @sidewardbrewing - try the Tempeh Reuben! ⠀
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🍵 We learned about the benefits of CBD and sampled cold hemp tea at #TheHempDepot with @davidcbd_dispensary⠀
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🌮 It was Taco Time at @restaurantmxtaco  where chef Ryan Manning's fantastic hongo sikil pak with pumpkin seed pesto, camote con mole taco, vegan birria tacos, quesadillas, rice bowl and guacamole all left us wanting more!⠀
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🥪 At @pompomsteahouse , warm pumpkin spiced tea with a bourbon kick paired with the Vegan Pom, Tuscan Melt and Dreamwich sandwich bites got us excited. Have you ever had a sandwich with noodles? Soooo good! ⠀
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🥛 At @juicebarorlando, owner Susan Buttery treated us to her fresh cold pressed juices, hummus, and a fantastic chia seed muffin with almond milk. It was all so good I brought more home. The Sassy Grassy and Spice of Life juices I could drink every day!! ⠀
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🍪 We ended our tour at @MarketonSouth - champions of 100% vegan eats in this district since 2015, we tried a variety of southern style BBQ sliders, Mac n’ Cheese and spicy chik'n dippers from @dharmafinevittles & scrumptious cookies and donuts from @valhallabakery ⠀
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Read more about it on the blog and go support these fantastic local businesses. The promotion with AMD specials is thru January, however you’ll find vegan and plant based options year-round. ⠀
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#MakeSomedayHappen #GoEpicOrlando #TheMilkDistrict
“Everywhere you go, take a smile with you.” - “Everywhere you go, take a smile with you.” - Sasha Azevedo (hosted) ⠀
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Who said anything about a diet in January? We need smiles right now. 😃 Happiness, donuts, coffee and smiles go hand in hand, don’t you think?⠀
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@everglazed_fl is now open in @disneysprings and I spent a sugar rush fueled morning learning all about this new donut and coffee shop. But there’s much more than donuts, I found plenty of surprises and even some really good things for the community. Donuts are simply the conduit to happiness! ⠀
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Here I am with one of my favorites - Reese's Nitro & Peanut Butter Explosion Donut. This is dessert for breakfast, lunch and dinner! ⠀
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👉🏼 Check out my full review on GoEpicurista.com, find out my favorites, my least favorites, and learn more about why you may want to add Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew to your list of places to dine at on your next Walt Disney World visit.⠀
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There’s so much to bring us down in the world right now. A sugar high is guaranteed to bring spirits up. Smiles guaranteed. 😃⠀
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#MakeSomedayHappen ⠀
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#GOepicOrlando #DisneySprings #Everglazed #GoEpicDisney
“There is no cure for birth and death save to en “There is no cure for birth and death save to enjoy the interval.” - George Santayana⠀
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Hello 2021! May we enjoy the interval more than ever this year. It's time for "The Cure".... 😉⠀
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Got any plans for the first day of the year? ⠀
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@raglanroadpub in @disneysprings is celebrating with their popular "Rollicking Raglan Weekend Brunch" today and their fantastic “The Cure” signature Bloody Mary. ⠀
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Dig into a phenomenal brunch menu of delicious offerings ranging from The Full Irish breakfast and Pancakes Diaspora to the OMG Burger and the pub’s famous Fish & Chips – a premium 10-ounce North Atlantic beer-battered cod filet.  Enjoy live Irish entertainment (starting at noon) while you sip “The Cure” or one of their epic Irish coffees. ⠀
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Space is limited so reservations are encouraged at 407/938-0300 or online. ⠀
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👉🏼 Check out GoEpicurista.com for more details on the best Bloody Mary & Weekend Brunches in Orlando including Raglan Road Irish Pub. ⠀
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Slainte! Cheers to a better 2021! 🎉🥂 #GOepicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen
"Acknowledging the good that you already have in y "Acknowledging the good that you already have in your life is the foundation for all abundance." - Eckhart Tolle⠀
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In a year that will never be forgotten, there's still so much I'm grateful for. ⠀
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💫  Life. We made it this far! ⠀
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💕  Love. There will never be a day I'm not most grateful for my husband, my family and my dear friends. If you're reading this - I'm grateful for YOU!⠀
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🥂  Fun. Yes! Despite the challenges of this pandemic. We adapted. And we searched for joy in every turn. ⠀
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✨  We got creative in the kitchen⠀
✨  We enjoyed the outdoors & went for more walks than ever before⠀
✨  We used Zoom, What's App & social media to stay connected⠀
✨  We attempted to learn new skills in the early days (remember March?!) ⠀
✨  We watched a lot of TV! (Schitt’s Creek, Ted Lasso, Killing Eve, The Queen’s Gambit, Mandalorian & even Tiger King got us thru it!)⠀
✨  We heard the words “pivot” “unprecedented” & “hunker down” way too much. ⠀
✨ “We’re in this together” has a new meaning ⠀
✨  We were distanced yet became much more aware of the world around us ⠀
✨  We had our eyes opened to the harsh inequalities that exist and the importance of speaking out ⠀
✨  We appreciated quality experiences over quantity and became much more selective of where we went when we left the house⠀
✨  Staycations did wonders for our mental health. Thank you @wyndhamgrandorl and @waldorforlando for epic "getaways"! ⠀
✨  In the year of "Take Out" we were awed by epic "At Home Experiences" Thank you @newstandardwp & @tavernaopaorl (Read about them on GoEpicurista.com) ⠀
✨  We were inspired by the tenacity & creativity of small business owners, restaurateurs & food'preneurs who worked so hard to survive & thrive (so many to mention!)⠀
✨  We were encouraged for the future of our hospitality industry by new openings like Knife & Spoon @ritzcarltonorlando & revamps like Henry Moso's @kabooki_orlando 2.0 - The Most Epic Meals of 2020!⠀
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There were so many things on my “To Do List” that didn't get checked off. But for today, I'm choosing simply to be grateful for this moment. ⠀
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Wishing you loads of abundance & joy. Happy New Year 2021!⠀
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#MakeSomedayHappen
“No matter how hard the past, you can always beg “No matter how hard the past, you can always begin again.” — Buddha (hosted)

Hope for a better new year. Hope is all we can hang on to. That and a glass of champagne! 😉🥂

As I reflect back on this difficult year, there's still so much to be grateful for. I'm mostly grateful for the friendships that have sustained me and the continued partnerships with my favorite local businesses that have inspired me to keep GoEpicurista going. And, while we didn't travel or dine out much in 2020, we did manage to enjoy a few fabulous staycations and epic meals in Orlando that truly made our spirits bright. More than ever I appreciate now, it's about "Quality vs. Quantity."

Our dinners at Bull & Bear at @waldorforlando and La Luce at @bonnetcreek were epic! I'm still dreaming of that beef carpaccio and the pasta explosion and the perfectly cooked filet and.... all the perfectly paired wines. 

If you haven't dined at Bull & Bear and La Luce or if its been a while, add them to your list and make it a point to GO! 2021 needs all the goodness you can bring! 

Make any day a celebration. Seriously, life is too short. #MakeSomedayHappen

🎉 If you don't have plans for New Year's Eve, La Luce and Bull & Bear are serving fabulous multi course menus to help you say “Hello 2021” in style! 

👉🏼 Check out GoEpicurista.com for a full list of all the festive ways to celebrate in Orlando on 12/31.

#GoEpicOrlando #WAOFoodie #HBCFoodie #WaldorfOrlando #HiltonBonnetCreek
“The bad news is time flies. The good news is yo “The bad news is time flies. The good news is you’re the pilot. — Micheal Altshuler⠀
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Everyone’s asking “Are you ready for 2021?” And as much as I want to say YES and put this crazy year in the rear view mirror, I also have a long "To Do List" to get done before the year is over. 😩  Where does the time go? Am I the only one who feels like the days are just flying by? ⠀
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Speaking of blink and you miss it moments, I couldn’t believe when I heard @seitobp is celebrating their 20th Anniversary! It's one of my favorite sushi spots in town and I'm sad to say it's been a while since my last visit. This lobster claw sushi is a throwback of a most epic dinner there! ⠀
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If you haven't been to Seito in Baldwin Park, now's the time to visit or re-visit. They're celebrating with over $2K in giveaways! (Follow on social for details!) Plus featuring a fantastic special multi-course menu of old favorites and new flavors this week. ⠀
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Congratulations to Jason and Sue Chin, the talented "pilots" of the Good Salt Restaurant Group. They've filled Orlando's culinary scene with loads of flavor with Seito, @theospreyorlando and @reyesmezcaleria with a 4th restaurant @themonroeorlando coming to give more to look forward to in 2021! ⠀
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Cheers to local restaurants doing good! 🥂⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #SeitoBaldwinPark
“Hope smiles from the threshold of the year to c “Hope smiles from the threshold of the year to come, whispering, ‘It will be happier.'” — Alfred Lord Tennyson (hosted)⠀
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It’s the last Monday of 2020! 🎉 How about ushering 2021 with a little sweetness and lots of hope? These gorgeous @sweetbyholly mini cupcakes are the perfect treat for your NYE party safe at home. ⠀
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The New Year’s Eve 6 Pack is only $6, available for pick up on 12/30 & 12/31⠀
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👉🏼 Quantities are limited so it’s best to Pre-Order,  online or by phone.⠀
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Good Riddance 2020! Cheers to a happier and sweeter 2021! 🥂🧁⠀
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How are you celebrating this New Year’s Eve? Please stay safe & celebrate responsibly so we can all enjoy a happier 2021. 😷 ⠀
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#GOepicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #SweetByHolly #NewYearsEve
"I don't know if there'll be snow, but have a cup "I don't know if there'll be snow, but have a cup of cheer." 🎶 —Johnny Marks and Burl Ives⠀
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What festive cocktail will be in your cup of cheer this New Year’s Eve? ⠀
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I loved this gorgeous sangria at Capa in @fsorlando 🍹 The bartenders at the posh resort’s restaurants are some of the best in town, and a great place to welcome 2021, whether you’re craving a Spanish feast at  Capa with a fab Gin Tonic or sangria, Ravello’s Italian cuisine with a Lavender Sgroppino Prosecco cocktail or Cranberry Old Fashioned (recipes below!), Plancha’s mojitos, PB&G indulgent Chocolate Peppermint Martini, or The Lobby Bar’s “Be Gone 2020” - You know there’s plenty of cheer! ⠀
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👉🏼 SAVE THIS POST! ⠀
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👍🏼 Check out GoEpicurista.com for my fun festive and safe ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Orlando including Four Seasons Resort!⠀
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Here’s 2 fun cocktail recipes for a delightful Four Seasons Orlando experience at home.⠀
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🥃 Cranberry Old Fashioned⠀
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1 oz “Cranberry Simple”: fresh cranberries, water, and sugar. Simmer one cup of cranberries with sugar (about ¼ cup or to preferred sweetness) and 2 cups of water in a pan on medium heat, and then reduce to low heat. Once cranberries are tender, strain out the cranberries, and the remainder serves as the cranberry simple syrup.⠀
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1 oz Bourbon⠀
3 Drops Cranberry Bitters⠀
1 Dash Angostura⠀
1 Lemon Wedge⠀
Sprig of thyme⠀
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Add all ingredients to a mixing glass and stir. Strain into a rocks glass over an ice sphere. Squeeze in and add the lemon wedge. Garnish with a sprig of thyme. Enjoy!⠀
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🍾 Lavender Sgroppino⠀
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3 oz Lemon Sorbet⠀
2 oz Prosecco⠀
.5 oz Lavender Infused Vodka⠀
Sprig of rosemary⠀
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Scoop the lemon sorbet into a Champagne flute, and then add the vodka. Top with Prosecco. Garnish with rosemary. ⠀
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Cheers!⠀
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#GOepicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #FSConnectsAtHome #FSOrlando
"The party's on, the feeling's here that only come "The party's on, the feeling's here that only comes this time of year." —Paul McCartney⠀
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We're all anxiously looking forward for 2020 to end and a more hopeful 2021 to arrive.  Aren't we? How will you celebrate on New Year's Eve this year? ⠀
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I'm happy as long as I have a glass of bubbles in my hand. I plan to order takeout and welcome the new year in my PJs at home. The 2020 way! LOL! 🥂⠀
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👉🏼 Check out GoEpicurista.com for my extensive list of options for festive ways to celebrate New Year's Eve in Orlando - whether you're looking for a multi-course dinner prepared by a talented chef, a theme party, to be entertained at an outdoor concert, or like me, to order a holiday feast to go. ⠀
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One of my favorite restaurants in Orlando, @reelfishcoastal is bringing back their 1.5 lb Maine lobster special for only $39 in addition to their fantastic full menu including the best selection of fresh oysters in town to ring in the new year! Best part is you can order it all to go! ⠀
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Of course, if you choose to dine in, they’re following all safety protocols. ⠀
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Enjoy "GET REEL" Happy Hour from 4-7p, Bottomless Champagne for only $20.21 starting at 4pm, Live DJ from 7:30pm until late and complimentary champagne toast when the clock strikes 12midnight! Make reservations as space is limited. Call (407) 543-3474 or visit: ReelFishCoastal.com ⠀
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Cheers to 2021! We can't wait! ⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #ReelFishCoastal #NewYearsEve
“Will you please tell Santa that instead of pres “Will you please tell Santa that instead of presents this year, I just want my family back.” – Kevin, Home Alone ⠀
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Merry Christmas Everyone🎄 Kevin may have wanted a cheese pizza but he wanted his family more. I know the feeling. Today I got both!⠀
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There’s no better present than spending time with family, even if that means having a pizza party on Zoom. ⠀
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So many of us are missing our families this year and so we’ve gotten creative. We may have even started a new Xmas tradition. ⠀
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From Portland, Oregon to Orlando, Florida. Dominican Republic to Chicago. We all gathered on Zoom, made pizza, played trivia games, did a scavenger hunt and had an amazing time! ⠀
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For our pizzas, I used @bredinbk ready made crust and topped with roasted peppers, prosciutto, roasted garlic, arugula and my favorite, local Orlando made, family owned Dicuru @freshmozzarellausa. Vladimir and his nephew Jorge are the nicest guys and their Burrata and mozzarella is by far the best in town! ⠀
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👉🏼 Look for Dicuru in your grocery store or order direct from them. I love supporting family owned and run small businesses like them. ⠀
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The holidays are all about family. I’m grateful to be able to spend it with mine even if it’s virtually. While some are no longer with us, their memories will always remain in our hearts. ⠀
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Scroll to see my family Xmas pizza party. The best present was the last video. 💕 😊 🍕🎄⠀
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Merry Christmas! ⠀
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#GOepicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #DicuruMozzarella #ChristmasonZoom
“From what we get, we can make a living; what we “From what we get, we can make a living; what we give, however, makes a life.” - Arthur Ashe⠀
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Thank you for following my @GoEpicurista journey. I’m so grateful for each one of you who reads, comments and shares my posts. You inspire me! Together we #MakeSomedayHappen 💕 ⠀
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It’s Christmas Eve and I have some yummy cupcakes for YOU! ⠀
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But this isn’t your traditional #GIVEAWAY...⠀
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@sweetbyholly was so kind to give me gift certificates for their fab mini cupcakes and I would love to pay it forward and give them to YOU or anyone who needs a little cheer this time of year.⠀
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The holidays can be tough, this year more than ever. If you or someone you know needs some sweetness in their life, please leave a comment below. 😊⠀
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Maybe you know a front line health care worker, first responder, teacher or delivery driver, restaurant staff or anyone who’s had a really tough year. Tag them in the comments and let them know you care. ⠀
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I know these are just cupcakes. They won’t change the world. But I guarantee they will bring a smile to their face. Sometimes that can make a world of difference. 😄⠀
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This is not your typical GIVEAWAY. ⠀
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I’m not asking you to FOLLOW @GoEpicurista or @sweetbyholly or LIKE this post to win - although it would be nice 😊⠀
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👉🏼 Simply leave a comment & TAG the person you want to bring a little cheer to. ⠀
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👉🏼 Tag as many people as you want by leaving separate comments. ⠀
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👉🏼 The winner does have to live in Orlando area to pick up their cupcakes.⠀
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👍🏼 4 winners will be selected at random on 12/25 and each will receive (1) six pack of awesome mini cupcakes from Sweet By Holly. ⠀
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Winners will be notified by DM. This giveaway is in no way affiliated with Instagram. ⠀
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🧁 If you’re interested in bringing some cheer to your loved ones this season, pick up a HollyDay Dozen TODAY! Scroll to see how pretty!⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #SweetByHolly #merrychristmaseveryone🎄
“OK, what about the gift situation then? Because “OK, what about the gift situation then? Because everything on my list requires pre-order." — David Rose, #SchittsCreek⠀
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Looking for last minute local gift ideas for the #OrlandoFoodie in your life? ⠀
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Treat your friends and family to something they can look forward to using! You know they’ll love their favorite dish or cocktail at their favorite restaurant, like this festive “Christmas in Singapour” at @eathawkers. ⠀
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Restaurant gift cards always come in handy. And they help support our local restaurants, which need it more than ever. Plus they’re great for those of us who are last minute shoppers. 🙈⠀
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Many restaurants like Hawkers are offering bonuses! ⠀
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#Hawkerdays gift card promotion is going on now through 12/31. The more you spend, the more you receive! You get $5 bonus gift card for every $25 gift card purchased, and no one has to know if you keep the bonus! 😉 ⠀
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Have you finished your Xmas shopping?⠀
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Happy Holidays! 🎄 ⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #HolidayGifts #SaveRestaurants
“Like snowflakes, my Christmas memories gather a “Like snowflakes, my Christmas memories gather and dance — each beautiful, unique, and gone too soon.” —Deborah Whipp⠀
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This year has certainly made us cherish the memories of great times spent with loved ones sharing yummy food, laughing and living life. They are such fleeting moments, gone too soon. ⠀
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I'll tell you what else goes fast, and that's these gorgeous @dgdoughnuts 💕 ⠀
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I didn't know they were named the best donut in the State of Florida on Yelp but I can see why! ⠀
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They're so creative, made in small batch, hand rolled, hand cut and hand decorated daily with inventive flavors that change weekly. They sell out quickly so if there's a flavor you want, be sure to get there early or order ahead. Definitely a Must Eat!⠀
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These are "Fancy Pants" Donuts! ⠀
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And if you want a boozy treat to celebrate the season, check out the ones with a pipette shot! ⠀
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The "Coquito" filled with sweet coconut custard, topped with a pipette of @bacardi  limited edition Coquito cream rum and Jack Daniels Caramel Winter Apple filled with spiced apple filling topped with dulce de leche rosettes and a pipette of of @jackdaniels Winter Jack Tennessee Whiskey are sure to make a fun celebration! ⠀
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#SupportLocal #EatLocal this holiday season! Forget the calories. Indulge! It's 2020 after all! ⠀
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Thank you @bebefehr for sharing! #GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #dgdoughnuts
"The best time for ice cream is always." — Unkno "The best time for ice cream is always." — Unknown⠀
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Just because it’s the #wintersolstice doesn’t mean you can’t have ice cream! Do you like frozen treats even if it’s cold outside? I do! 🍦 Especially when it’s a festive cone like this one at @peterbrookewp in Winter Park. ⠀
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If you’re looking for some delicious gifts this holiday season, don’t forget to support our local small businesses. ⠀
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Peterbrooke has some amazing chocolate treats for everyone on your list and while you’re there you might as well treat yourself to some gelato too! ⠀
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#GOepicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #SupportLocal #SupportSmallBusinesses
“The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singi “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.” - Buddy The Elf (hosted)⠀
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Here’s my recipe for Christmas Cheer:⠀
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✅ Creative Holiday Cocktails⠀
✅ Yummy Asian Street Food⠀
✅ Fun Playlist to Jam, Dance & Sing!⠀
✅ Outdoor Patio for Comfortable Social Distancing⠀
✅ A great friend & business partner to share it with! ⠀
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Lisa @tastecooksip and I had a festive & productive work meeting at @eathawkers Mills location. Our first (masked) face to face meeting since the pandemic began in March! ⠀
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Thank goodness for Zoom but nothing beats face to face meetings to spark the creative juices! We have tons of fun stuff coming up for @figdigitalmedia including new ways to help our local small businesses get social media to work for them. ⠀
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We were totally jamming to the fun 90s playlist in their new outdoor patio. Maybe the new holiday cocktails had something to do with our festive mood? 😉⠀
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The OG Hawkers location now has a full bar and that’s reason to celebrate!⠀
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Check out these Holiday Cocktails, available until 12/31 at all locations:⠀
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🔥 “Get Toasted” - a rich mix of Coconut rum, house-made Vietnamese coffee liqueur, & Bailey's Irish cream. We played mixologist and added some Vietnamese Iced Coffee to it because, coffee!!! I love anything garnished with toasted marshmallows and a Pirouline cookie!! ⠀
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🎅 “Santa's Nightcap” with Spiced rum, house-made five-spice simple, amaretto, evaporated milk, and coconut was coconutty. The gingersnap cookies & crushed cookie rim, would make Santa 😊⠀
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🎄 We loved “Christmas in Singapour” made of @hendricksgin, house-made rosemary simple, cranberry, pomegranate & lime juice. It came in a holiday ornament atop chilled cranberries and fresh rosemary for a stunning presentation. ⠀
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🫖 The “Hotty Toddy Christmas” is perfect for the cool weather we’re having with Bulleit rye whiskey, Masala chai black tea & saké⠀
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We dined on our Hawkers favorites: Roti, Edamame with chili, Shrimp Papaya Salad & Crispy Tofu Bites. ⠀
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The outdoor patio with twinkling lights and a fun @mills50district inspired mural is perfect for safe dining.⠀
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Cheers to being able to safely enjoy the holidays!⠀
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#GOepicOrlando
“When the going gets tough, the tough make cooki “When the going gets tough, the tough make cookies.” - Erma Bombeck⠀
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It’s been a tough year to say the least so I skipped the baking and got these cookies at @ritzcarltonorlando instead! ⠀
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I absolutely loved their crinkle cookies and the cranberry chocolate bark, and who could resist a gingerbread man? ⠀
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They were some of the treats found along our festive lakeside walk at the beautiful resort. We paired with a glass of bubbles, Coquito and Hot Chocolate. Perfect! ⠀
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Is baking cookies part of your holiday traditions? What’s your favorite cookie? ⠀
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How are you celebrating the holidays this year? ⠀
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👉🏼 I published an update to my “Top Orlando Hotels for Christmas Dining” on GoEpicurista.com and the Grande Lakes Resort comprised of Ritz Carlton and @jwmorlando is one my must visit favorites this holiday season! ⠀
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Several resorts are offering to go options this year for those who wish to dine lavishly at home but skip all the work. Check out the Knife & Spoon To Go feast for 4-6. It’s impressive! ⠀
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Happy Holidays! ⠀
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#GOepicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #RCmemories #LoveOrlando #christmascookiesfordays
"Nobody's walking out on this fun, old-fashioned f "Nobody's walking out on this fun, old-fashioned family Christmas." — Clark Griswold, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation⠀
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What’s your favorite holiday activity tradition?⠀
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I’ve been on a Xmas movie binge and never realized there were so many holiday movies out there! Scroll Netflix, Prime, and let’s not forget ALL the Hallmark Channel lineup and there’s every predictable holiday love story. It’s hilarious! I think I’ll stick to comedies like Christmas Vacation, Home Alone, and Elf and The Holiday & Love Actually for rom-coms. Of course I always watch White Christmas. It’s a classic! What are your favorites? ⠀
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Speaking of favorite holiday traditions, let’s talk about chocolate treats! ⠀
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One of my favorite local chocolate shops @peterbrookewp has everything you can dream of covered in chocolate. Popcorn, pretzels and Oreo cookies are my go to’s. They make great gifts for the chocolate lovers in your life. (Hint Hint 😉)⠀
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And if you’re looking for a fun activity the whole family will enjoy, pre-order a Chocolate House Decorating Kit. It comes with everything you need to make the most adorable - and delicious - chocolate house! ⠀
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Check out their IG and website for details. They offer curbside pickup, delivery and shipping too! ⠀
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Make the holidays as delicious as can be this year! God knows we all deserve it! ⠀
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#GOepicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #PeterbrookeWP #nationalchocolatecoveredanythingday
"We elves try to stick to the four main food group "We elves try to stick to the four main food groups: candy, candy canes, candy corns, and syrup.” — Buddy the Elf (hosted)⠀
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I’ve been on a sugar high lately! Tis The Season, Right? But no complaints here! ⠀
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I got to check out the @sweetbyholly Christmas Collection of Mini Cupcakes and all I can say is “Sweet Golly Miss Holly”, Hollis Wilder, 3x @foodnetwork Cupcake Wars Champion, really outdid herself this year. ⠀
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Her and her team created the most gorgeous and scrumptious flavors. The cupcakes are super moist and fluffy, made with high quality ingredients like Valrhona chocolate and Madagascar Bourbon vanilla and there’s always a little surprise filling inside! ⠀
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#ShopLocal this season. The Hollyday Dozen is $25 and makes a perfect gift for your family and friends with a sweet tooth. ⠀
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2020 Hollyday Collection Flavors:⠀
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🧁 Birthday Cake⠀
🧁 Dirt (weird name, great flavor!) ⠀
🧁 Chocolate Mousse⠀
🧁 Peppermint Red Velvet ⠀
🧁 Hot Cocoa ⠀
🧁 Ginger Bread⠀
🧁 Banana Pudding ⠀
🧁 Cinna Bun⠀
🧁 White Raspberry⠀
🧁 Salted Caramel ⠀
🧁 White Chocolate Mocha⠀
🧁 Sugar Cookie ⠀
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👉🏼 Order online at at sweetByHolly.com. Available for pick up or delivery through 12/24. Closed Xmas Day.⠀
👉🏼 Check out their Instagram giveaways and sign up for their Sweet Club for 2 free cupcakes! ⠀
🍦 Kids get a FREE ice cream all month! CHILLINPEACE premium Italian imported ice cream in 8 delicious flavors with fun toppings and drizzles.⠀
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We all need a little sweetness in our lives, especially this year!⠀
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Today is #NationalCupcakeDay 🎉 Did you know one of the first recipes for a cupcake can be traced back to 1796!? ⠀
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Are you a cupcake fan? What flavor would you choose first? ⠀
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#GOepicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #SweetByHolly #HolidayTreats #MiniCupcakes
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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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