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Widowmaker Pizza and Wine – Easy Entertaining on Game Night

By Christina Thomas 4 Comments

Widowmaker Pizza and Wine Easy Entertaining for Game Night with #CKMondaviWines

Pizza and Wine Pairings with CK Mondavi perfect for Game Night

Easy Entertaining at home doesn’t get any better than pizza and wine. It’s even easier than you think with this recipe for my gorgeous Widowmaker Pizza and wine pairings with CK Mondavi Wines.

Widowmaker Pizza and Wine Easy Entertaining for Game Night with #CKMondaviWines

Take out pizza is usually the go-to when friends come over. Even though, I ambitiously (optimistically) bought a pizza stone 5 years ago. It has patiently sat untouched, brand new, in the box all these years.

Do you ever buy kitchen gadgets with the intention to “make your own _____ (fill in the blank)” someday?

Make Someday Happen

I’ve wanted to make pizza at home for as long as I can remember.

“I don’t have time to go through all the trouble” is the thought on perpetual replay through my mind.

Cooking often appears harder and more time-consuming than it actually is. Thus we avoid it. (It’s the reason fast food is so appealing). This is also often the reason we avoid entertaining friends at home. It’s too much work.

But what if I told you it’s not?

I finally took the pizza stone out of the box and used it. I’m on a mission to “Make Someday Happen” and it was time I crossed this off the ‘someday list’. Woo hoo!

Surprisingly, I discovered it takes the same amount of time to wait for your pizza delivery than it does to make it, and it tastes so much better.

Widowmaker Pizza and Wine Easy Entertaining for Game Night with #CKMondaviWines

Open a bottle of wine while you pile on fresh toppings on your pizza crust and guaranteed you’ll have much more fun (and eat better too!) Below is my recipe for the Widowmaker pizza paired with CK Mondavi wines for a fun game night (or any night).

Widowmaker Pizza and Wine Easy Entertaining for Game Night with #CKMondaviWines

This recipe turned out so great, I have made pizza four times in one week! That pizza stone is no longer brand new. Now I must confess. I cheated. But I’m not ashamed. You can read on to find out how. But first, let me tell you about inspiration.

Inspiration is Everywhere!

I’m often asked how I come up with new recipes. When I want to get creative in the kitchen, I’m most often inspired by my travels and the talented chefs I’ve had the honor to meet. Who better to learn from than chefs?

Especially chefs as talented and debonair as Brandon McGlamery, Orlando’s award-winning partner / head culinary honcho of Luma on Park, Prato and the newly opened Luke’s Kitchen – all three restaurants which belong on your Orlando “Must Eat” list. A nominee for “Best Chef South” in the highly acclaimed James Beard Foundation Awards this year. I hope he brings home the prize to Orlando! Can you tell I’m very proud of Orlando’s culinary scene? (I digress)

Orlando is a culinary destination and these chefs prove it. hear what they had to say at www.goepicurista.com

Brandon McGlamery autographs his cookbook 9 Courses

Mention Prato, located on trendy Park Avenue in Winter Park, to any Orlando foodie and I guarantee you’ll hear immediate raves about their pizzas – made in an Acunto oak-burning oven. The Widowmaker, with that gorgeous fried egg on top, gets top nod.

Prato’s Widowmaker was the first pizza I devoured with an egg on top. Who knew egg on a pizza would be so fantastic? It was about three years ago, during a food tour of Winter Park. It would not be my last. A friend once said “everything is better with a fried egg on top” and if you try this pizza you would agree. I don’t know who started this foodie trend of the fried egg and the eternal search for #EggDrool food porn, but it shows no signs of stopping.

A post shared by Christina Thomas (@goepicurista) on Jan 19, 2014 at 2:35pm PST

Prato’s Widowmaker pizza is topped with hazelnut Romesco, cavolo nero, fennel sausage and farm egg.

I only had eggs in my fridge. But that’s all I needed to be inspired to create this pizza.

I couldn’t possibly copy those fantastic ingredients. For starters, I would have to hunt for them in specialty stores and make my own sausage. I don’t have time for that. That’s the main reason I go out to eat and let the experts prepare foods I could never truly make the same at home. But, I can certainly be inspired by it.

Widowmaker PIzza and Wine Easy Entertaining for Game Night with #CKMondaviWines

When you’re at home, and friends are coming over for game night (or any night), you keep it simple. The last thing you want is growling stomachs and to be spending all your time slaving in the kitchen. Am I right?

I dashed to the grocery store with my list and this is where I cheated. I got ready-made pizza crust and tomato sauce. I’m ok with that. I got plenty of toppings to make it my own. And I will tell you how to make store-bought taste spectacular. Read on!

An easy pizza that looks great and tastes even better was on the table in less than 30 minutes! Pizza delivery is a thing of the past!

Why is it called a Widowmaker?

You may wonder what is with this funny albeit morbid name? The term “widowmaker” has a variety of definitions, mostly unpleasant. It is “A thing with the potential to kill men”, or in logging terms “a dead branch caught precariously high in a tree which may fall on a person below.” Neither definition applies to this gorgeous pizza.

Unless, dying of deliciousness is being considered.

I don’t know why McGlamery called his pizza “The Widowmaker” but I assume it’s because it’s so loaded with fantastic goodness it could kill a man – and he would die happy.

As I’m thinking of entertaining on game night, the term “widowmaker” reminded me of many friends who during sports season often feel like widows because their husbands get lost in front of the TVs with no opportunity for distraction. If you’re married to a sports fan (and you’re not equally lost in the sport) this may be you.

I bet this gorgeous pizza and wine pairing will provide some distraction and allow you to enjoy the game with friends, even when the game is not your main point of interest. Whether it’s college basketball during March Madness, hockey during the Stanley Cup, football, any sporting event throughout the year, or even board game night, this recipe is sure to get attention and cheer you up. You got delicious pizza and wine to keep you company.

Widowmaker Pizza and Wine Easy Entertaining for Game Night with #CKMondaviWines

The Widowmaker Pizza Ingredients

Just because you’re at home doesn’t mean you can’t show off like the best chefs do. Choose high quality ingredients.

Widowmaker Pizza and Wine Easy Entertaining for Game Night with #CKMondaviWines

Set up your ingredients and have your guests top their own pizza!

The Widowmaker pizza could be topped with anything you wish, plus a fried egg on top. It’s meant to draw attention and distract you. It’s the “everything but the kitchen sink” of pizzas. You could go all meaty with loads of pepperoni and sausage (CK Mondavi has a promotion right now with Bridgford premium pepperoni. Look for it as bottle neckers.) or go with lots of veggies and lots of cheeses.

I made mine look like a flower, perfect for Spring. This daisy of a pizza is packed with caramelized sweet onions, sautéed mushrooms, garlic, prosciutto, mozzarella, pecorino Romano, arugula and of course topped with a fried egg.

Widowmaker Pizza and Wine Easy Entertaining for Game Night with #CKMondaviWines

Pizza Crust

If you are so inclined, make your own pizza dough. For the sake of easy entertaining, go for a ready-made crust. (I am now keeping some on hand for quick meals anytime!) You will find plenty of options in the deli section of your grocer.

Yes, I cheated. But let me tell you about this crust! While on recent assignment for Edible Orlando magazine I discovered a locally made pizza crust and fell in love. Of all things, it’s gluten-free! Yes, you read that correctly. I, who loves all gluten, was swayed after I interviewed Elaine Pezzoli, the charming Brazilian-Italian chef owner of Elaine’s Creations based in Apopka, Florida. After one bite I knew I had to bring this pizza crust home with me. If I didn’t tell you it’s gluten-free you wouldn’t know it. It’s crisp, thin, with soft bubbles, firm when you hold it up and has great flavor. Everything a pizza crust should be. My husband had no idea it was gluten-free and loved it. As I said, using high quality ingredients is key.

Widowmaker Pizza and Wine Easy Entertaining for Game Night with #CKMondaviWines

Gluten-Free Pizza Crust never tasted so good! And so quick!

For best results, when using a ready-made pizza crust, bake it by itself on a hot pizza stone for 2 minutes to give it some crispness. Then add the toppings and bake longer, as needed, until golden color and melted cheese is achieved.

Pizza Sauce

You can make your own. It‘s bound to be absolutely delicious. In the interest of time and simplicity, I chose my favorite marinara / tomato sauce and punched up the flavors with added crushed dry oregano, basil, garlic salt and fresh cracked pepper. There’s no shame in that. The best way to add flavor to prepared sauces is to add fresh dried herbs.

Widowmaker Pizza and Wine Easy Entertaining for Game Night with #CKMondaviWines

Cheeses

As I learned from Chef Elaine Pezzoli, if you are using grated cheeses in a recipe, fresh grate it yourself right before using. The flavor will be more vibrant than using pre-grated cheese. In this recipe, I sliced a ball of fresh mozzarella for that super cheesiness.

Widowmaker Pizza and Wine Easy Entertaining for Game Night with #CKMondaviWines

Use whole mozzarella and slice instead of pre-shredded.

Then, add fresh grated pecorino Romano before serving. Use as much as you want!

Widowmaker Pizza and Wine Easy Entertaining for Game Night with #CKMondaviWines

Fresh shredded Pecorino Romano is best!

Meats

Choose high quality cured meats and get creative. Try new flavored sausages. Pepperoni, ham, and prosciutto are great options. Cut them into bite size pieces but large enough to be identifiable. Have them available for guests to pile on or skip depending on their preference.

Widowmaker Pizza and Wine Easy Entertaining for Game Night with #CKMondaviWines

Cut your meats into irregular bite size pieces – Prosciutto and sausages are wonderful on this pizza!

Veggies

Sautéed or roasted veggies work great on this pizza. You want lots of flavor. I prepared caramelized onions, mushrooms and garlic sautéed with a bit of olive oil, garlic salt and fresh cracked pepper.

Widowmaker Pizza and Wine Easy Entertaining for Game Night with #CKMondaviWines

Caramelized onions

Widowmaker Pizza and Wine Easy Entertaining for Game Night with #CKMondaviWines

Fresh garlic sautéed in olive oil adds fantastic flavor!

The Egg

Most recipes will tell you to crack the egg on top of the pizza and return to the oven in the final stages of baking. I discovered the trick to a perfect egg atop a pizza is to fry it separately, especially when using a pre-made pizza crust as it does not need as much time in the oven. It will allow the egg whites to cook (you don’t want runny whites) but still maintain the yolk soft and bright yellow. Add on top of your pizza right before serving. Guaranteed you’ll have that glorious egg drool, runny yolk, which adds such rich umami flavors.

Widowmaker Pizza and Wine Easy Entertaining for Game Night with #CKMondaviWines

See the difference between cooking the egg on top of the pizza or adding it after its baked.

Widowmaker Pizza and Wine Easy Entertaining for Game Night with #CKMondaviWines

Egg cooked in the oven – The crust got extra crispy. I learned to reduce baking time and cook egg separately.

I like this one better!

Widowmaker Pizza and Wine Easy Entertaining for Game Night with #CKMondaviWines

Arugula

Greens atop a pizza may seem strange but the peppery arugula adds a unique freshness and pop of flavor. Plus, adding colorful ingredients to your dish is always a good idea. Look how pretty it is!

Widowmaker Pizza and Wine Easy Entertaining for Game Night with #CKMondaviWines

Use as much Arugula on top as you want!

Wine Pairings with CK Mondavi

As a CK Mondavi Ambassador, it has been so much fun creating recipes to pair with their All American California wines. They are well-balanced, easy to drink, accessible wines with high value and quality. Perfect for easy entertaining a crowd and enjoying at any time. Game night made easy!

For this pizza, a true reflection of spring, I wanted a bright clean white wine that would be refreshing, with aromas and flavors that would not overpower each other. You could easily serve this pizza and wine combo for a garden party too!

Widowmaker Pizza and Wine Easy Entertaining for Game Night with #CKMondaviWines

A crisp clean and bright white wine is best! Try CK Mondavi Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio

CK Mondavi Sauvignon Blanc has beautiful herbaceous and citrus notes. Its crispness and acidity were a perfect match with the toppings selected, especially the cheeses, egg and arugula. It also pairs well with seafood, fruit, mild cheeses like mozzarella, pasta and roasted chicken. CK Mondavi harvests grapes at their peak of ripeness creating wines with developed flavors.

CK Mondavi Pinot Grigio was also a nice pairing with the Widowmaker pizza. It offered a crisp and fruitier alternative to the herbaceous Sauvignon Blanc due to aromas of wildflowers, peaches, pears and tropical fruit. This is the easiest one to drink on its own or paired with food. It’s a blend of Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Moscato which offered balanced acidity and a touch of sweetness. I can see myself drinking this wine while enjoying an outdoor picnic.

Widowmaker Pizza and Wine Easy Entertaining for Game Night with #CKMondaviWines

Look for CK Mondavi’s special game day promotions on their wine bottles in stores now through March 31, 2018.

Widowmaker Pizza and Wine Easy Entertaining for Game Night with #CKMondaviWines

CK Mondavi Wines are not only a great value, they come with even more special discounts for game day!

Follow #CKMondaviAmbassador or #CKMondaviGameDay on social and you’ll find more fun recipes from all the lovely CK Mondavi Ambassadors.

For more info on CK Mondavi, check out their website, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram and YouTube.

Widowmaker Pizza and Wine Easy Entertaining for Game Night with #CKMondaviWines

CK Mondavi Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio and Moscato – Perfect Wines for Spring!

The Widowmaker Pizza Recipe


Serves 1 (2 if you are serving with other foods)

Ingredients:

    ^ 9” Prepared pizza crust (or pizza dough of your choice)
    ^ 2 Slices prosciutto, cut in bite size pieces
    ^ 6oz Ball fresh mozzarella, thin sliced
    ^ Fresh pecorino Romano, shredded
    ^ 2 Tbsp prepared tomato sauce
    ^ 3 Button mushrooms, thin sliced sautéed
    ^ 2 Slices sweet onion, caramelized
    ^ 1 Garlic clove, sautéed
    ^ Arugula
    ^ 1 Egg, fried sunny side up
    ^ Dry oregano or Italian seasonings
    ^ Fresh cracked pepper
    ^ Garlic salt
    ^ Extra virgin olive oil

Instructions:

    1. Pre-heat pizza stone in oven at 500 degrees, for 15 minutes.
    2. Place prepared pizza crust on center of pizza stone for 2 minutes, until edges are slightly golden.
    3. Add a pinch of dried Italian seasonings, oregano, garlic salt and cracked pepper to tomato sauce and stir.
    4. Remove pizza crust from oven, spread even layer of tomato sauce to cover the crust.
    5. Add mushrooms, onions, garlic, and prosciutto. Place slices of mozzarella on top.

    Widowmaker Pizza and Wine Easy Entertaining for Game Night with #CKMondaviWines

    6. Place pizza on pizza stone in the oven and bake for 3-5 minutes until cheese is melted and crust is golden.
    7. Remove the pizza from the oven, place fried egg in the center.
    8. Sprinkle with Arugula, shred fresh Pecorino Romano cheese and drizzle olive oil on top.
    9. Serve hot!

Widowmaker Pizza and Wine Easy Entertaining for Game Night with #CKMondaviWines

Voila! Enjoy Easy Entertaining with Pizza and Wine on Game Night (or any night!)

Cheers!

Go Epicurista

Widowmaker Pizza and Wine Perfect for Easy Entertaining on Game Night or Any Night with @CKMondaviWines

PIN THIS FOR LATER!

Disclosure: As a CK Mondavi Wines ambassador, I was compensated for this post. I only choose to collaborate with brands I enjoy. I love their great quality value wines, and more importantly I admire the company’s values and the family behind them. This is a fourth generation family run business that is 100% American. It is an honor to partner with them to share with you awesome wine pairing tips and easy entertaining recipes. All opinions, photos and recipe creations are my own. As always I only share with you products and experiences I love, to inspire you to #MakeSomedayHappen.

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Filed Under: Easy Entertaining Recipes Tagged With: Brandon McGlamery, CK Mondavi Wines, Easy Entertaining, Pizza, Prato Restaurant, Recipe

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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. Jeannie says

    03/20/2017 at 9:54 pm

    Wow! That looked amazing! Made my mouth drool.
    Thank you for sharing.

    Reply
    • Christina Thomas says

      03/21/2017 at 7:42 am

      Thank you for checking out the recipe! It’s definitely drool-worthy! Hope you get a chance to make it. Cheers!

      Reply
  2. Betsy @ Desserts Required says

    03/18/2017 at 9:29 pm

    This is a fabulous way to celebrate the word, Widowmaker!!! Love every part of it, including the ‘quick crust’ version! Sharing on Desserts Required’s FB page manana.

    Reply
    • Christina Thomas says

      03/21/2017 at 7:41 am

      Ha ha! Glad you liked the little play on words there! Thanks for checking out this fun pizza and wine combo and for sharing on your Dessert’s Required page, because the only thing that would make this combo better is one of your fantastic desserts!

      Reply

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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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Now let me explain why I quoted "These are a few of my favorite things"⠀
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It's my birthday month, and while getting older is not something we often sing about on a mountain top, and this year there's been plenty to be down about, I'm so grateful for life every day. Looking back at all my favorite things I’m grateful for this past year is a great way to look forward. This month, I'll be sharing my favorite foodie experiences that have made me so grateful to be alive. Hopefully you'll be inspired to reminisce with me and #MakeSomedayHappen⠀
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This brunch also made me grateful that despite getting older, I still find new things to learn, new experiences & flavors to discover. I did not know I was such a fan of caviar until I met Michael Passmore, owner of @PASSMOREcaviar during Curated Experiences. ⠀
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We enjoyed chatting with him and his wife, learning about Passmore Ranch, an ever-growing 86 acre ranch nestled in the rolling grasslands of Sloughhouse, California, shadowed by the Sierra mountain range. It's known for its sustainably raised and sourced fish, and for making some of the world’s finest small batch caviar.⠀
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Yes, I also realized I have such expensive tastes! 😂 But did you know you could put caviar on almost anything, including dessert?  Michael topped lobster, tuna, clams, aged steak & even creme brulee with a dollop of exquite caviar. A sublime experience!⠀
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Cheers to enjoying new expereriences and making special memories. 🥂⠀
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Grande Lakes Resort is hosting another perfectly planned "Curated Experiences Weekend" on April 23-25, 2021. Reserve your tickets! #GOepicOrlando
"Aioli intoxicates gently, fills the body with war "Aioli intoxicates gently, fills the body with warmth, and the soul with enthusiasm. In its essence, it concentrates the strength, the gaiety of Provence: sunshine." - Frederic Mistral (hosted)⠀
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I would love to travel back to Provence. The sunshine and wine, the markets filled with all sorts of fresh goodies, the air filled with aromas of lemon and lavender. One of my favorite places.⠀
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Fabio and Paula, the charming owners of @viniawinekitchen in Winter Park indulged my Provence foodie dreams with a delightful seasonal 3-course menu perfectly paired with wines from the region. The only thing better than the deliciously executed dishes was their warm hospitality as if welcoming us to their home.⠀
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Vinia is a hidden gem tucked on cobblestoned New England Street. Sit outdoors, grab a spot at the bar or booth by the window.⠀
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Start with Tartare de Crabe - a generous stack of blue crab layered with thin slices of crisp green apple, lightly seasoned with Herbs de Provence dressed with a squeeze of fresh lemon. Dip into the painted plate of aioli dressing dotted with chili oil which Fabio tells us to go crazy and mix it all up.⠀
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Every heavenly bite chased with the crisp Figuiere, Cotes de Provence Valerie Blanc. Lovely with notes of ripe pear & herbs.⠀
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Next, Filet de Bar Roti au Jambon, sauce au citron & herbes et Confiture de Ratatouille - roasted branzino filet adorned with porchetta ham crisps in a light lemon herb sauce. The red pepper Ratatouille jam creates the perfect bite.⠀
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Rosés of Provence are my favorite and Le Paradou, Cotes de Provence Rose was classic, delicate, dry & fruity. ⠀
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Dessert was surprising! Sorbet of Romarin a L'huile d'Olive. An odd combination of lemon-rosemary sorbet with fruity olive oil sprinkled with fleur de sel that totally works. Fabio tells us it's his favorite. So refreshing paired with sweet full-bodied wine with honey notes, Chateau de Caladroy, Muscat de Rivesaltes.⠀
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3-course menu is available on Tuesdays for $49 + Wine Pairings $35, worth every penny. Make reservations & enjoy a night in Provence. Be sure to say hi to Fabio, Paula & adorable Olivia 🥂⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen
“Brunch without booze is just a sad, late breakf “Brunch without booze is just a sad, late breakfast.” - anonymous 🥂⠀
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This is NOT a sad breakfast at all! What’s not to love about Steak & Eggs Frites with sriracha hollandaise and Burrata topped Avocado Toast? Paired with next level Frozcato Mimosa made with DOLE Whip® Pineapple! And a gorgeous Rose Cream topped cookie? 💕 ⠀
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If you love brunch, then you’d love the brunch menu at @winebargeorge in @disneysprings, available 10:30a-2p, Saturday and Sunday. Perfect for a date with your honey or your bestie. I included WBG in my write up for my favorite date spots  in @experiencekissimmee and my favorite Easter Brunch in Orlando. 
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👉🏼 Check out GoEpicurista.com for the ultímate roundup of places to celebrate Easter next weekend! And don’t forget to make reservations! ⠀
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#GOepicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #WineBarGeorge #SundayBrunch #DisneySprings
“The Italians and Spanish, the Chinese and Vietn “The Italians and Spanish, the Chinese and Vietnamese see food as part of a larger, more essential and pleasurable part of daily life.” - Anthony Bourdain (hosted)
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🥘 It’s #NationalPaellaDay and one of my favorite date night’s in Kissimmee is enjoying fantastic sangria and paella in the courtyard at @columbiarestaurant⠀
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Did you know Columbia Restaurant is the oldest family owned and run restaurant in Florida?⠀
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The same day the Wright Brothers flew their historic mission in 1903, Cuban immigrant Casimiro Hernandez, Sr. founded the Columbia Saloon in Tampa’s Ybor City. ⠀
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From the classic Spanish-Cuban dishes which boast recipes created over a hundred years ago, to the artwork on the walls, and the many stories the staff has to share, there’s history in every bite. The sister location in Celebration opened in 1997, and is still managed by the Hernandez / Gonzmart family for 5 generations.⠀
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Leisurely share a refreshing pitcher of sangria - classic red, white and rose available but I recommend the sparkling cava for a year-round taste of summer. Start with Columbia’s Original “1905” Salad® and don’t fill up on the bread that comes to the table although you will be tempted to keep breaking off bites of the crispy Cuban loaf from equally iconic @lasegundabakery which also opened in 1905 in Ybor City and has been Columbia’s bread purveyor ever since.⠀
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For your entree, choose the traditional prepared Paella “a la Valenciana” brimming with an assortment of clams, mussels, shrimp, scallops, calamares, chicken and pork, baked with the highest quality La Bomba Spanish rice from Spain. ⠀
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Save room for the utterly decadent White Chocolate Bread Pudding. It gives that delightful La Segunda Cuban bread new life baked with crispy edges and gooey soft center, a scrumptious white chocolate and rich Bacardi rum sauce. It was love at first bite! Pair it with a perfectly brewed cafecito Cubano or cafe con leche.⠀
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You can read all about my favorite date night spots in Kissimmee including Columbia Restaurant for @experiencekissimmee on experiencekissimmee.com/blog/top-date-night-restaurants-kissimmee⠀
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#GOepicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #PaellaDay
"Five hundred twenty-five thousand six hundred min "Five hundred twenty-five thousand six hundred minutes. Five hundred twenty-five thousand moments so dear. How do you measure, Measure a year? How about love? Measure in love...Remember the love..." 🎶- Rent⠀
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525,600 minutes we'll never forget. I'm a little late posting my "I can't believe it's been a year since the pandemic began" post but time has been rather fluid this year, hasn't it? A year full of sadness, isolation, and loved ones lost. But also a year that's shown us how resilient we can be. ⠀
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I'm choosing to remember the love. Remember the moments when we slowed down and appreciated the simpler things.  Remember how we grew closer with loved ones despite the physical distancing. ⠀
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I'll never forget our last dinner before everything fully shutdown in Orlando. The opening of @sixtyvineswinterpark enjoying a fabulous wood-fired Butcher pizza and Tonnarelli Shrimp pasta with a nice glass of wine and friends. ⠀
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I'm looking forward to getting vaccinated and having a big dinner with family and friends and giving them all big hugs! ⠀
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Did you hear the OCCC site will open for vaccination appointments for 40+ year olds on Monday 3/22 at 9am? 🤞🏼⠀
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Remember the love 💕⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #LoveOrlando
“The best things in life are the people we love, “The best things in life are the people we love, the places we have been and the memories we have made along the way.” - Irish saying 🇮🇪⠀
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Happy St. Patrick's Day! ☘️ I can't believe it's been 2 years since I last celebrated this day at my favorite Irish pub in Orlando @raglanroadpub We've had loads of fun there with friends over the years! ⠀
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They always put on the best festivals, and this year with safety in mind, The Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival goes Unplugged. It will be a bit different but still promises to bring the "craic." It's more subdued, more intimate rather than boisterous, more acoustic than electric. ⠀
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Great live entertainment with bands imported from Ireland plus the Raglan Road dancers perform all day starting at 11am. Of course phenomenal food and drinks are a must! Crafted signature cocktails, exclusive local craft beers, Irish whiskies and authentic Irish fare with a modern twist. ⠀
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Raglan Road opens at 10 a.m. with a $10 cover charge for guests.  Reservations are required due to limited capacity and guests can book a two-hour slot to enjoy the festivities. Visit @RaglanRoadPub for more details and entertainment schedule. ⠀
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Celebrate safely my friends! Slainte!☘️⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #RaglanRoadPub #StPatricksDay #disneysprings
"Those who don't believe in magic will never find "Those who don't believe in magic will never find it." - Roald Dahl (gifted)⠀
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Magic to me is found in a perfectly baked macaron. It's magic you can taste!⠀
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If you want to know the difference between a macaron and a macaroon, Executive Pastry Chef Franck Riffaud at Waldorf Astoria Orlando (@waldorforlando) and Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek (@bonnetcreek) will not only tell you, he'll show you!⠀
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The desserts, pastries, and breads are one of the top reasons why all foodies love to visit this gorgeous resort complex near Walt Disney World. Truly world-class delicious magic! ⠀
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Over the course of his 27+ year career, Chef Riffaud has mastered the magic of bringing happiness and smiles in the smallest, most gorgeous bites. He’s worked in one, two and three-star Michelin restaurants all over the world, so to indulge in his creations is a MUST DO in Orlando!⠀
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And what's the difference between macaron and macaroon? The words may look the same but macarons' (with one “O”) main ingredient is almond meal and macaroons' is shredded coconut. Macarons are colorful and airy and macaroons are textured, chewy coconut and usually dipped in chocolate. Which one is your favorite? ⠀
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Thank you Chef Franck for this sweet surprise! 💕⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #LiveUnforgettable #LoveOrlando
“Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for “Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow. The important thing is not to stop questioning.” - Albert Einstein⠀
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It’s 3.14 #NationalPiDay, the second day pie lovers love to celebrate!⠀
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My question today is: ⠀
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Lemon Meringue or Key Lime Pie? ⠀
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What’s your favorite pie? ⠀
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I’ve already shared how much I love @sisterhoneys but I’ll say it again, owner Evette Rahman makes the best pies. And if all the awards and blue ribbons on her wall don’t convince you, your taste buds definitively will!⠀
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I have a tough time deciding between the sweet tart key lime pie or the lemon meringue with that dreamy fluffy topping. So I get a slice of both! ⠀
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👉🏼 You can read more about Evette and other inspiring women chefs and entrepreneurs on GoEpicurista and keep celebrating #WomensHistoryMonth⠀
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How do you celebrate Pi Day? ⠀
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Some do with dessert pies, or savory pies and others with pizza pies. But did you know the origin of this national celebration began in 1988 with fruit pies and tea served at 1:59pm (the next 3 digits of pi) at the Exploratorium in San Francisco? Physicist Larry Shaw thought it would be a fun celebration for the staff. A few years later, after Larry’s daughter, Sara, remarked that the special date was also the birthday of Albert Einstein, they started celebrating the life of the world-famous scientist. In 2009 US Congress declared it a National Holiday. ⠀
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Happy Pi Day! ⠀
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#GOepicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #LoveOrlando #PieDay #PiDay
“You can’t ZOOM a vacation.” - Phil Brown, C “You can’t ZOOM a vacation.” - Phil Brown, CEO Greater Orlando Airport Authority ⠀
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We're craving a return to travel and safe getaways because as Phil says, we can't zoom a vacation. Since Hawaii is at the top of my US travel bucket list (my "someday list") I'm so excited to share @hawaiianairlines now has non-stop flights from Orlando International Airport (@flyMCO) & Honolulu’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) ⠀
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Great reason to cheer so I'm celebrating their inaugural flight today with the most Hawaiian cocktail of all time: The Mai Tai! ⠀
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Yesterday I got the chance to tour the roomy Airbus A330 aircraft during a media visit with Jeff Helfrick, Hawaiian Airlines Vice President of airport operations & Phil Brown, CEO of MCO ⠀
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✈️ Non-stop flights to Hawaii offered twice a week (Tue & Sat) increasing to 3 flights this summer⠀
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😷 Extensive safety precautions in place including electrostatic spraying aircraft & face mask required. ⠀
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😷 Hawaii requires negative state-approved Covid test prior to departure or 10-day quarantine upon arrival. Hawaiian makes it easy to start your vacation right away with Vault-At Home Testing kits with expedited results in 24 hours. Check website & @gohawaii ⠀
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✈️ Hawaiian’s Airbus A330 offers comfortable design with 18 fully flat Premium Cabin leather seats arranged in a 2-2-2 configuration, 68 Extra Comfort seats with more legroom and enhanced amenities & 192 Main Cabin seats. ⠀
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🌸 Experience Hawaiian hospitality the minute you step inside with a friendly “Aloha” from the Hawaii-based crew. ⠀
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🍹Sip signature Hawaiian cocktails by @otrcocktails @cruzanrum Mai Tai, Moloka'i Mule & Tropical Landing complimentary for First Class & Business, for purchase in Main Cabin⠀
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🍽 Exec. Chefs Wade Ueoka & Michelle Karr-Ueoka of Honolulu’s MW Restaurant oversee meal program featuring Island-inspired meals, complimentary for all passengers. First Class menus by award-winning local guest chefs. Currently Robynne Maii, Owner/Chef at @FêteHawaii ⠀
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🌸In-flight amenities by @kealopiko are fantastic!
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Ready for Hawaii? #MakeSomedayHappen⠀
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Thanks @TasteCookSip for my photos! #GOepicOrlando #GoHawaii
"I love spring anywhere, but if I could choose I w "I love spring anywhere, but if I could choose I would always greet it in a garden." - Ruth Stout⠀
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Spring in the garden is the best place to be! Would you love to enjoy great food and drinks in a beautiful garden setting? ⠀
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Edible Education Experience @EdibleEdExp at the Emeril Lagasse Foundation Kitchen House & Culinary Garden in College Park is launching a new event series called "IN THE GARDEN" and you don't want to miss it! ⠀
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Each event will give us a tour of different food cultures around the world in a safe setting. The first event on Sunday 3/21, "IN GIARDINO" is all about Italy! ⠀
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Hosted in collaboration with award-winning Chef Kevin Fonzo of La Tavola, the event will feature a distinguished group of local chefs and artisan vendors, each preparing Italian regional specialties which you can learn more about as they prepare your dish. ⠀
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Here's a bit of what will be available for purchase at the event:⠀
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🌱 @cheffonzo scrumptious Porchetta Sandwich⠀
🌱 @itsthepizzaslut famous pizzas made with fresh ingredients from the EEE garden ⠀
🌱 @chefjasonwolfe PASTA! and goodies from @tornatorespizzeriaorlando Shop to take home.⠀
🌱 Chef Erica Asti's fresh Mushroom and Celery Salad ⠀
🌱 @mhulbert22 Michelle, Maker of Sweet Things - Traditional desserts including cannoli and tiramisu⠀
🌱 @palatecouture Charcuterie and Cheese boards! ⠀
🌱 @cuisiniers Beer and Wine ⠀
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Admission ticket is only $5 per person and all food and drink items are affordably priced a la carte to be purchased at each vendor. ⠀
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Event is expected to sell out so get your tickets ASAP! Two event times offered: 12pm-3pm or 3pm-6pm⠀
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Visit www.edibleed.org/payforclass to purchase. ⠀
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Future events will focus on a different country, so whether it's “sa hardin” (Philipines), “bageeche mein” (India), or “bageeche mein” (Germany) - we will get a chance to embrace different cultures in the garden! ⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #EdibleEducationExperience #LoveOrlando
“I wish that more women realized that helping an “I wish that more women realized that helping another woman win, cheering her on, praying for her, or sharing a resource with her does not take away from the blessings coming to them. In fact, the more you give, the more you receive. Empowering women doesn’t come from selfishness but rather from selflessness.” – Selene Kinder⠀
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Cheers to all the strong and powerful women whom I've had the privilege to know. Those who've cheered me on and those who've inspired me with their wisdom and passion. ⠀
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This year, I've turned to women entrepreneurs and chefs for inspiration and I've been so lucky to share their stories on GoEpicurista.com ⠀
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👉🏼 Check out "Women Chefs Who Rock Orlando’s Food Scene" post and read all about some of the amazing women led restaurants, bakeries and food shops in town. The list is far from complete though! I would love to get your recommendations on who I should feature next.⠀
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P.S. This photo is in one of my favorite Spanish restaurants in town, @tapatoroorlando which is local owned and led by the talented Katerina Coumbaros and her husband Vassilis. ⠀
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#GOepicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #IWD2021 #WomenSupportingWomen #WomensDay #LoveOrlando
“The soul becomes dyed with the color of its tho “The soul becomes dyed with the color of its thoughts.” - Marcus Aurelius⠀
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It’s #NationalCerealDay and time for colorful treats and happy thoughts! 😃⠀
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What was your favorite cereal as a kid? ⠀
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I still remember sitting in front of the TV watching Saturday morning cartoons with a bowl of Fruit Loops, Frosted Flakes or Cinnamon Toast Crunch. It was a weekend treat!⠀
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Nowadays, I get my breakfast cereal fix as a topping on donuts and pastries. No spoon required. Here’s a few fun ones: ⠀
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🥄 @dochi.fl in @eastendmkt Taro Pebbles donut is light and airy with a taro glaze. Yum! ⠀
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🥄 @everglazed_fl in @disneysprings Fruity Pebbles donut or Cinnamon Toast Crunch are both yummy. Pair it with cereal milk! Sweeeet! ⠀
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🥄 At @choulalapastries in Park Avenue and 436, Winter Park the Fruity Pebbles chou cream puff is delightful. @chefstephsteph also added a Lucky Charms chou just for March! Classy & gorgeous! ⠀
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Did you know Fruity Pebbles cereal rolled out nationwide in 1971? It turns 50 this year! ⠀
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Have a colorful day. You deserve it! ⠀
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#GOepicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #CerealDay #FruityPebbles #LoveOrlando
“I want adventure in the great wide somewhere! I “I want adventure in the great wide somewhere! I want it more than I can tell!” - Belle, Beauty & The Beast ⠀
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I’m craving adventure and my favorite giant chocolate macaron lollipop from EPCOT France pavilion. How about you? ⠀
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The Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival kicked off this week! All the Outdoor Kitchens and beautiful topiaries are back! Some new as well as returning favorites. Sadly I no longer have my Disney Annual Pass so I haven’t had a chance to go check it out, but since the festival runs thru July 5th, I’m hoping to go for a day. ⠀
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I’m so happy this “Macaron au Chocolat en Sucette” is back at @artisandesglace and all the gardens are in bloom! It’s such a beautiful festival which last year was abruptly cut short due to the pandemic. ⠀
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This photo is a throwback from those carefree pre-pandemic days when we took so much for granted. I can’t believe it’s been a year already. Don’t forget if you plan to go that Disney is still restricting capacity, reservation is required and you must wear a mask at all times, except when stationary while eating and drinking. ⠀
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Will you be going to Epcot for Flower & Garden this year? What’s your favorite dish and topiary? ⠀
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#GOepicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #FreshEpcot #GOepicDisney #LoveOrlando
"Your mission: Be so busy loving your life you hav "Your mission: Be so busy loving your life you have no time for hate, regret or fear." - Karen Salmansohn (hosted)⠀
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"Busy Busy Busy" - Story of my life! But I'm so grateful and it's important to take time out to enjoy it. Couldn't think of a better way to do that than with these gorgeous sweet treats from @choulalapastries . ⠀
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The coffee lover in me wanted the Tiramisu entremet made of fluffy mascarpone mousse with a creamy mocha coffee center, dark chocolate crisp pearls, and an espresso-soaked ladyfinger cake dusted with cocoa powder. Dreamy!⠀
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The caramel lover in me wanted Crème brûlée chou puff. And of course, one must always get macarons. The Perfect Trio!⠀
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Don't forget to take a break from your busy schedule and treat yourself today. What tasty treat do you crave for the perfect coffee break? ⠀
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#GoEpicOrlando #MakeSomedayHappen #ChoulalaPastries #LoveOrlando #WinterParkFL
“If you are cold, tea will warm you; if you are “If you are cold, tea will warm you; if you are too heated, it will cool you; If you are depressed, it will cheer you; If you are excited, it will calm you.” - William E. Gladstone (hosted)⠀
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Hello March! Happy Monday! 😃 I feel like I need all the caffeine today and while I tend to go for lattes, I love all different kinds of teas. If you do too, you’ll love the article Lisa Wilk and I wrote for HistoricDowntownSanford.com featuring all the best places to get caffeinated in this charming town. ⠀
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Stop by @rosieleeteaco, the quaint shop with an old fashioned European feel on South Park Avenue is known as Historic Downtown Sanford’s tea lover’s utopia! A vast selection of over 100 teas from around the world are showcased in the fragrant tea bar to enjoy there, at home or gift to the tea lover in your life. ⠀
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Try the “Rosie Love” Iced Tea, the perfect sipper for a warm day of #sanfording around @historicdowntownsanford ⠀
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It has a subtle blend of strawberries, cherry and roses. When you order it iced, they add a dash of rose & strawberry syrup and a splash of lemonade. So refreshing! ⠀
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If you prefer your tea hot, order a soothing classic London Fog Latte with Earl Grey Creme tea. It was perfect to enjoy while sitting in their funky high back chairs. ⠀
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If coffee is your thing, you’ll love they now feature local artisan @wavelengthcoffee and don’t miss getting some sweet treats from my favorite @choulalapastries ⠀
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👉🏼 Check out the article! I’ll add the link in my stories. ⠀
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“Come, let us have some tea and continue to talk about happy things.” - Chaim Potok⠀
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#GOepicOrlando #HistoricDowntownSanford #CoffeeandTea #RosieLeeTea
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