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Get The Most Magic from Visit Orlando Magical Dining Month

By Christina Thomas 7 Comments

Get The Most Out of Magical Dining in Orlando with GoEpicurista.com

September’s Visit Orlando Magical Dining Month is pure magic! With so many great restaurants, how do you choose?

**While this article was written in 2019 and things have changed in 2020, the tips listed here are still valid to help you choose where to dine for #MagicalDining. For reviews of 2020 restaurants, check out Magical Dining at Home with Taverna Opa (a new addition this year) and Magical Dining at The H Cuisine. 

September is a great month to be in Orlando. The area’s best restaurants participate in Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining Month offering a special 3 course, prix-fixe menu at substantial savings, for only $35 per person.

This is enough to make my inner foodie do cartwheels!

On top of that, some area resorts offer deals in conjunction with Magical Dining for the perfect mini getaway. And the cherry on top is that $1 per Magical Dining meal sold will benefit selected local charities. It’s pure magic!

Each year the program grows bigger and bigger! It began in 2006 with 26 restaurants. In 2019, more than 120 restaurants are part of the program! Here’s the challenge: unless you eat dinner twice a day, with so many great choices you have to narrow down your list.

Here are my tips for how to choose which restaurants to visit and get the most magic from Magical Dining Month.

Visit Orlando Magical Dining with www.goepicurista.com

So many choices, so little time!

Top 9 Tips To Get The Most Magic from Magical Dining Month:

1. GO Try Something New

You can afford to be more adventurous when spending less dough. Go try one of the new restaurants making a splash in the Orlando dining scene. Or you can #MakeSomedayHappen and Go to one of those restaurants you’ve always wanted to visit. You know, the Orlando institutions you often say “I’ll go there someday”? What restaurants are on your “Someday List”?

Get The Most Out of Magical Dining in Orlando with GoEpicurista.com

Award-Winning The Ravenous Pig is on many foodie’s Must Eat List!

2. GO For Choices

Review the menus, conveniently available by area and type of cuisine on the Visit Orlando Magical Dining Website. Some restaurants offer a large variety of choices of appetizers, entrees and desserts. Some even offer an additional course! GO for restaurants with the most dishes to your liking. More is definitely better and some restaurants are doing it right by offering more than 2 choices for each course.

Get The Most Out of Magical Dining in Orlando with GoEpicurista.com

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Jiko

3. GO For Creativity

When offering prix fixe menus, some restaurants sadly miss the opportunity to showcase their creativity. Offering instead, safe options of soup or salad starters, beef, plain chicken or salmon entrees and mousse for dessert. Incredibly boring, unless they kick it up a notch! Other restaurants go for creativity in a big way. Look at the menus and reward those that do it right.

Get The Most Out of Magical Dining in Orlando with GoEpicurista.com

1921 Mt Dora

4. GO For the MVP

A three course meal for $35 per person at a great restaurant is already a fantastic value across the board. However, some restaurants truly have the MVP – Most Valuable Proposition. If entrees on the regular menu are $30 or more, you have a steal with Magical Dining. High end steakhouses like Capital Grille, Del Frisco’s Double Eagle and Eddie V’s are examples of getting your money’s worth!

Top 9 Tips to enjoy Visit Orlando Magical Dining Month

Eddie V’s Bananas Foster is worthy of the indulgence!

5. GO Make a Night Of It!

Why not get away for a mini vacation (or staycation)? The area’s best resorts offer packages at a fraction of the cost this time of year. Some of my favorite resort and dinner pairings from the past include Rosen Shingle Creek resort and dinner at A Land Remembered Steakhouse, Rosen Centre Hotel and dinner at Everglades Restaurant, Hyatt Regency Orlando and dinner at Urban Tide or Fiorenzo’s, Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek and dinner at Zeta Asia and The Four Seasons and Dinner at Ravello. But there are so many resorts participating, I will be trying new ones this year.

Top 9 Tips to enjoy Visit Orlando Magical Dining Month

Rosen Centre Hotel’s Everglades Restaurant Florida Grouper

6. GO Bev Pairing

Take advantage of special wine or cocktail pairing offers with the Magical Dining menu or create your own. Don’t forget to ask when making reservations or when you’re seated for any special beverage offers.

Get The Most Out of Magical Dining in Orlando with GoEpicurista.com

Ravello at Four Seasons Resort Orlando offers great wine pairings!

7. GO Share with Friends

Magical Dining is a great opportunity to get friends together, celebrate life and create lasting memories over a great meal. Plus, the more friends, the more you get to sample different dishes. Around my table it’s tradition to pass plates around. Sharing is caring!

Get The Most Out of Magical Dining in Orlando with GoEpicurista.com

The Turf Club at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort

8. GO Off Peak

Many restaurants on Magical Dining are popular on weekends so I prefer to dine mid-week and have a more leisurely evening. Reservations are always recommended, regardless of when you choose to go – many offer online reservations via Open Table. Also keep in mind, some restaurants will gladly present the Magical Dining menu, and may even offer extra perks and bonuses for you to return. At other restaurants, you must specifically request it.

Get The Most Out of Magical Dining in Orlando with GoEpicurista.com

Four Seasons Resort Orlando Ravello Restaurant

9. GO Just Ask

Looking for vegetarian dishes? Worried about food allergies? Is parking additional? Do they offer wine pairings? Call and just ask. Every restaurant participating in Magical Dining does so as an opportunity to gain new customers. Ask about any concerns or wants and chances are they will accommodate. Those that don’t, you can cross off your list. Most hotel restaurants will offer complimentary parking including valet. Every restaurant will accommodate vegetarian requests and food allergies, some do it better than others. This year there are more vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options than ever.

One thing you don’t need to ask about is the prices offered for Magical Dining and Magical Nights do not include tax and gratuity. It is always advisable to take good care of your servers.

Top 9 Tips to enjoy Visit Orlando Magical Dining

Hamilton’s Kitchen at The Alfond Inn

Now that you’ve read the tips. Check out my Instagram @goepicurista stories and follow along my Magical Dining this year.

I hope you will GO take advantage of Visit Orlando Magical Dining Month. It’s not only a fantastic value and a fun opportunity to dine out with friends but it’s also a great way to support local businesses and dine for a good cause. This definitely makes dining out much more magical.

About Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining Month:

The program was designed by Visit Orlando to showcase the wide variety of upscale and diverse dining throughout the destination, while also helping children in need. More than 120 restaurants across the destination participate, with each offering a three-course, prix fixe dinner menu for just $35 per person. And, one dollar from every meal served is donated to a local charity.

The website OrlandoMagicalDining.com includes the full list of participating restaurants, menus and designated options for vegans, vegetarians and gluten-free diets. OpenTable reservations are also available now.

The wide range of venues spans areas from Disney Springs to Restaurant Row near the convention center, as well as burgeoning neighborhood districts in downtown Orlando, Winter Park and beyond.

Have you made your choices yet? Please let me know which restaurants are on your list in the comments below.

Remember sharing is caring. If you liked these tips, please share with your friends on social media.

Cheers!

Go Epicurista

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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. Ben says

    09/04/2014 at 6:41 pm

    I’m looking forward to FINALLY getting to Le Coq au Vin.

    Reply
    • Christina Thomas says

      09/05/2014 at 8:00 am

      Ben, Le Coq Au Vin has been on my “someday list” for as long as I can remember. I hope to #MakeSomedayHappen this month! Would love to hear about your dinner. Thanks for stopping by the blog. Cheers!

      Reply
  2. Sabina @GirlvsGlobe says

    09/04/2014 at 6:09 pm

    This looks incredible! I LOVE avocado, so I would devour those tostones in a matter of seconds 😀

    Reply
    • Christina Thomas says

      09/05/2014 at 7:59 am

      Sabina, I am headed to Kasa next week and those tostones with avocado will be devoured in your honor! Thanks for stopping by the blog! Cheers!

      Reply
  3. Mikki says

    09/04/2014 at 12:38 pm

    What a great post. I love living out here in Deland but I really do miss having access to such great places to eat like down in Orlando. I’ve heard some much of this Dining magic stuff.. what a great idea!!
    Thanks for coming by my blog!!
    Have a great day!

    Reply
    • Christina Thomas says

      09/04/2014 at 12:44 pm

      Mikki why not make a night of it? The Magical Nights deals make for a great little getaway for you and the hubby.There are 24 hotel packages to choose from! Thanks for stopping by and keep having fun! 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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FUN THINGS TO DO IN ORLANDO TO TREAT YOURSELF: 

☕️ Go on a Coffee Crawl of Downtown Orlando ☕️ 

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

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

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

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

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

Be sure to follow @flygaltravels and @orlandocoffeeculture for more coffee fun in Orlando!

Go treat yourself! #MakeSomedayHappen 

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

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

✨ @gideonsbakehouse Limited Edition Cookies and Cake Slices ✨ 

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

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

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

November’s visit included:

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

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

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

What are you doing to treat yourself today? 

Go #MakeSomedayHappen 

#GoEpicOrlando #GideonsBakehouse #DisneySprings #treatyourself
🍩 Orlando Chocolate Donut Showdown! 🍩 @thes 🍩 Orlando Chocolate Donut Showdown! 🍩

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

Which one will you choose? 

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

vs 

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

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

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

Thank you Ian at The Salty Donut for hosting me! 

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

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

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

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

We enjoyed:

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

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

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

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

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

Here’s what we ordered and loved:

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

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

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

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

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

Make reservations and Go #MakeSomedayHappen 

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

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

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

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

NEW in 2023:
• For the Love of Florida and The Rosé Room themed areas
🇺🇸 Partnership with Friends of Fisher House Orlando, to benefit military and veteran families while a loved one is receiving medical treatment

🗓️ Friday, Nov. 10 & Saturday, Nov. 11 from 5:30-9 p.m.
🎟️ Food & Wine Classic Tickets: $185 per person for unlimited food & beverage samples
• For More Info: FoodAndWineClassic.com

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

• The Grand Tasting: Wines and Champagnes curated by Master Sommelier John Blazon paired with a custom chef’s table menu from the resort’s Executive Chef Dan Herman. Saturday, Nov. 11 from 2-5 p.m.

Go #MakeSomedayHappen

(media preview) #GoEpicOrlando #LoveOrlando 
@SwanDolphin @SwanReserve #SwanDolphinClassic #SwanDolphin #SwanReserve
🍁MUST DO FALL EVENTS IN ORLANDO: Fall on the Fa 🍁MUST DO FALL EVENTS IN ORLANDO: Fall on the Farm at @grandelakesorlando 🍂

This fun, family-friendly event held at Whisper Creek Farm is open to resort guests and Florida locals to celebrate the fall season! 

Event includes: 

🎃 Pumpkin carving and painting
🛻 Hayrides
🎨 Face painting
🦉 Animal encounters & Falconry Meet & Greet
🎶 Live music and entertainment
🍯 Farmers Market
🥕 We loved sharing awesome bites, made with locally sourced ingredients including veggies from the farm (food purchases are separate from admission)

We enjoyed:

 🐝 Bee’s Knees Cocktail
 🐖 Smoked Bourbon Pork Shoulder BBQ Sandwich with Sweet & Spicy Pickles, Whole Grain Mustard Slaw, Toasted Wheat Kaiser Rolls and Pumpkin Spice Curry sauce
 🍟 Brisket topped Loaded Disco Fries with 
Homestyle Gravy, Cheese Curds, & Alabama White BBQ Sauce
 🥕 Hummus and Petite Garden Vegetable Crudité
 🌽 Esquites, Chipotle Crema, Cotija, Tajin, Charred Lime
 🥧 Mini Pumpkin Pie

🗓️ Saturdays & Sundays in October
🎟️ Reserve Your Ticket at GrandeLakes.com

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

🌟 Nami at Wave Hotel in Lake Nona 🌟

The grand opening event for this exciting new Japanese restaurant was epic! Creative bites, fantastic craft cocktails, a gorgeous modern setting, and friendly staff. I can’t wait to go check out their full menu and Omakase experience! 

Highlights:

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

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

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

(Media preview) #GoEpicOrlando #NamiLakeNona #WaveHotelLakeNona #LakeNonaFL
☀️ Summer Please Don’t Go. 🍹 I know fall ☀️ Summer Please Don’t Go. 🍹

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

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

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

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

(Gifted) #MakeSomedayHappen #summervibes #nataliesjuices #freshlemonade
It’s always a good time for ice cream… 🍦 # It’s always a good time for ice cream… 🍦

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

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

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

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

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

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

Go enjoy a great ice cream! #MakeSomedayHappen 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Is Summer really over? 

Follow for more... 

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

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

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

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

Reservations recommended. Go #MakeSomedayHappen

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

# 33 @kabooki_orlando 

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

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

We enjoyed: 

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

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

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

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

ABOUT KABOOKI SUSHI:

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

ABOUT VISIT ORLANDO MAGICAL DINING: 

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

Make reservations & GO #MakeSomedayHappen 

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

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

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

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

We shared these sweet brunch dishes:

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

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

My Favorite Brunch Cocktails:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Go #MakeSomedayHappen 

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

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

—

APPETIZERS

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

MAIN COURSE

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

DESSERT

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

Details: 

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

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

💫 Where will you be Magical Dining? 

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

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

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

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

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

Here are the details: 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Make reservations and go #MakeSomedayHappen 

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

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

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

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

# 19 🍊 @saltandstraw 
🍦 Exquisito Guanabana Stracciatella Ice Cream

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

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

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

Go #MakeSomedayHappen 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here’s what we enjoyed: 

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

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

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

🍽️ BOHEME - fantastic dinner! 

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

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

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

🍷 Kessler Chardonnay and Kessler Cabernet

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

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

Reserve Your Night and Go #MakeSomedayHappen 

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

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

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

#MakeSomedayHappen #GoEpicOrlando
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