Archive For The “Florida Foodie Finds” Category

Toothsome Chocolate Emporium Universal CityWalk: Review and Helpful Tips


 

Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen: A Chocolate-themed Restaurant at Universal Orlando CityWalk

 

Toothsome Chocolate Emporium: The Backstory

Universal Studios Resort in Orlando Florida has added yet another intriguing eatery to restaurant row on its famed CityWalk. The full name (although lengthy and difficult to remember) is Toothsome Chocolate Emporium and Savory Feast Kitchen, but most people simply refer to it as the Chocolate Emporium, the Chocolate Restaurant, or even the Chocolate Factory. Call it what you want, but hope that its creator, the fictional Professor Doctor Penelope Tibeaux-Tinker Toothsome, won’t be offended by your utterly informal attitude that entirely eliminates her name.

In case you’re interested, here’s the backstory of this chocolate-themed restaurant from Universal’s official website page:

“From the Alps to the empire of the Aztecs, from Mongolia to Madagascar, Professor Doctor Penelope Tibeaux-Tinker Toothsome learned new and fascinating methods of infusing chocolate into the most extraordinary recipes, making friends and receiving honors everywhere she went. Upon returning home to London, Penelope determined that she would share her love and knowledge of chocolate with the world. She set about building The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen, an enchanting 19th century themed, Steampunk inspired dining establishment with a façade of towering smokestacks and an interior adorned with intriguing gadgets and gizmos.”

 

Toothsome Chocolate Emporium at Universal Orlando CityWalk: A Chocolate-themed Restaurant

 

Toothsome’s Whimsical Steampunk-inspired Decor

The above description from Universal Studios Orlando not only gives the story behind this unique chocolate-lovers restaurant but also a glimpse into what kind of atmosphere to expect. The whimsical bi-level space is very family friendly with a fun loud atmosphere. The visual concept of the building, both inside and out, is definitely worth a look. The impressive towering black and gold smokestacks can be seen a mile away (or so it seems) and draws curious minds to investigate this unique table-service restaurant. The interior is a Victorian-era, Steampunk-inspired chocolate factory. Just inside the front entrance you’ll see the Chocolate Emporium’s signature decorations — pipes, gears, and cocoa beans rotating inside a clear tube.

As you can imagine, the sweet aroma of chocolate permeates the building. On the righthand side is a gift shop and confectionary store. Chocolate goodies abound here. You’ll find chocolate-covered pretzels, chocolate candy bars, chocolate-coated milkshake straws, and a yummy display of filled chocolates. Some of the non-chocolate offerings were colorful cotton candy, gourmet jelly beans, and candy powder. If you’re in need of a souvenir there’s also Toothsome shirts, mugs, and various Steampunk-inspired merchandise.

 

Toothsome Chocolate Emporium at Universal Orlando CityWalk Gift Shop & Confectionary

 

In the bakery display case you’ll see all kinds of decadent desserts — everything from macaroons to neapolitans to eclairs to chocolate mousse, and much more. Opposite the gift shop is a quick-service counter where non-dining guests can order Toothsome’s signature [and enormous] handcrafted milkshakes and super-sized sundaes. After all, the gigantic desserts are the main attraction at the Chocolate Emporium. They are the number one reason people visit this restaurant. The desserts are all oversized twists on classic favorites like Key Lime Pie, Strawberry Cheesecake, and Red Velvet. You can check out a sampling of the Chocolate Emporium dessert menu and prices here. It’s also a lot of fun watching the artisanal milkshakes and scrumptious desserts being made in the exhibition kitchen.

TIP: When ordering milkshakes… ask for the cake, cupcake, or cookies that are placed on top to come “on the side.” They will put them in a separate container for you to save for later — kind of like getting two desserts out of one!

TIP: When finished with your milkshake, ask for the plastic mason jar to be washed out (or rinse it yourself in the restroom).

 

Toothsome Chocolate Emporium Exhibition Dessert Kitchen

 

Toothsome Chocolate Emporium Decadent Desserts

 

And of course, the overall experience at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium is enhanced by the presence of the two main characters, Professor Penelope and her sidekick robot, Jacques. They can be seen roaming the restaurant and visiting guests at their tables.

Kids Love Professor Penelope and Her Sidekick Robot Jacques

We went to Toothsome Chocolate Emporium for dinner to celebrate our grandson’s 4th birthday — he LOVES chocolate… and robots! In fact, his favorite part of the evening was meeting Jacques the robot on his way to the restroom. It was a great photo opportunity. He spent the remainder of the meal hoping Jacques would make his way back to our table, but we never seen him after the initial encounter. Professor Penelope, however, did stop by our table as we were awaiting our desserts. She took tons of time conversing with our birthday boy, and we appreciated the engaging visit.

 

A Visit from Professor Penelope at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium Universal Orlando CityWalk

 

Jacques the Robot with My Grandson at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium Universal CityWalk

 


 

No Reservations and Slow Service at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium

We had dinner at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium on a Friday evening. To our disappointment, this Universal Studios restaurant does not take reservations (although some restaurants at CityWalk do). During peak restaurant hours the average wait time is somewhere around  90 minutes, and waiting 2 hours for a table is not unusual. But a very long wait was not an option for us, since our party included an active 4-year-old little boy. When we called Universal we were advised to come early, by 5:00 PM, in order to avoid a long wait. This too, was disappointing, since Universal Orlando offers FREE self-parking in their garages after 6:00 PM, a savings of at least $22.

 

Free Self-parking After 6 PM at Universal Orlando CityWalk

 

We arrived at the Chocolate Emporium shortly after 5:00, and our party of 6 was seated immediately, upstairs. In the elevator, we encountered a male server carrying a tray of desserts to guests dining on the second floor of the restaurant (see photo below). I was too busy drooling over the creative concoctions and getting permission to photograph them, that I never questioned the “food safety” element. I have never been to a restaurant where food items are delivered this way… on a public elevator with people [potentially] coughing and sneezing in that small enclosed space. (Just seems a bit unclean to have all those germs hovering around my food. I would be much happier with a dedicated food-service elevator for the wait staff.)

 

A Server at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium at Universal Orlando CityWalk

 

Upon being seated our server was friendly and initially service was attentive. But, as the level of busyness increased the service decreased. By the time we ordered dessert the restaurant seemed to be at capacity, and we waited a very long time to receive our dessert order. Considering that dessert is the star of the show at Toothsome Chocolate Factory, one would think they would find a way to decrease the wait time. Our saving grace was that we were not in a hurry and I continued to enjoy the company of my grandson, the birthday boy.

TIP: You can request to sit on the shaded patio, where it is less noisy and sometimes a shorter wait. 

TIP: If no tables in the dining rooms, ask to go upstairs to the bar area. (If you don’t mind eating there!)

 

Upstairs Bar Area at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium

 

Outdoor Patio Dining at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium

 

At Toothsome Chocolate Emporium Chocolate is King!

The restaurant has a large menu with a wide range of [mostly] American fare, including vegetarian and gluten-free choices. No matter what your taste, you can probably find something here. At Universal’s Toothsome Chocolate Emporium chocolate is king! In fact, chocolate is creatively incorporated with many of the food and drink items, even outside of dessert. For example, chocolate-y libations include Old Chocolate Fashion and Chocolate Cherry Mule. One person in our group ordered the Too Chocolate Stout, a dark beer with just the right amount of chocolate, according to her. Our server was nice enough to offer a sample before committing to this chocolatey brew. (I noticed that even some of the cocktails were served with a piece of cake or dessert on the rim instead of the typical garnish.) Here’s a sample drink menu from the Chocolate Emporium.

Chocolate-infused appetizers include Warm Chocolate Almond Bread, Pork Belly Sliders with Chocolate Dipped Bacon, or Coffee and Chocolate Stout Chicken Wings. For entrees that include the [bitter] sweet and savory taste of chocolate you can choose the Gnocchi with Mole Cream Sauce, or the Braised Short Rib with Cocoa Gremolata. And then there’s the handcrafted milkshakes, sundaes, and pastry desserts with no shortage of chocolate choices!

 

Too Chocolate Stout at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium Universal Orlando CityWalk

 

Chocolate Emporium Food Quality

Our party of six shared three different appetizers: Avocado Bruschetta, Baked Brie En Croute, and Crab and Artichoke Dip. The portions were great for sharing and we loved all of them. Hubby and I, however, were not crazy about the taste and quality of our entrees. The other three adults in our party seemed to like their choices. Hubby’s Braised Short Rib was dry and overcooked, and the Cocoa Gremolata did not do justice to the dish. I’m a salmon freak and order it often, but unfortunately my Grilled Teriyaki Salmon had a strong “fishy,” taste, and the accompanying Asian Inspired Vegetables were very hard. I like my veggies al dente, but these were barely cooked. I brought them home, but they ended up in the garbage. The Classic Sole Amandine and Toothsome Signature Beef Filet Mignon Oscar were both very good according to my grandson’s parents. Although, I thought the $47 price-tag on the filet was high, even for Universal.

 

A Selection of Appetizers at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium Universal Orlando CityWalk

 

Entree Selections at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium Universal Orlando CityWalk

 

Kid's Burger & Fries at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium

 

And then it was time for the main course… DESSERT! Everyone ordered their own, with the exception of hubby and I who shared one. The presentation of each one was beautiful, creative, and humongous… picture perfect, actually. They certainly will satisfy anyone’s sweet tooth cravings. The taste, unfortunately, was just average. For me, dessert was a major let down considering all the hype associated with the sweet treats. After all, dessert is what people come to the Chocolate Emporium for. Personally, I would have preferred a smaller portion and higher quality. For example: The Flan in our Salted Caramel Flan Sundae was not Flan at all! The texture and taste was more like caramel-flavored cheesecake. Once again, dessert was good, but not excellent.

TIP: I highly recommend sharing a dessert, both because of size and to avoid disappointment in the quality and taste.

 

Salted Caramel Flan Sundae at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium

 

In Conclusion…

My grandson really enjoyed his birthday dinner at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium, which was the whole purpose of dining here. It’s a fun, quirky atmosphere that kids seem to like. And if you have noisy children, well that’s okay too, as the noise level can be quite high. Portions are large and desserts are outrageously humongous, but many food items were lacking in quality. For me, the Chocolate Emporium would be more of a dessert spot, not a dinner destination. There are so many better choices, even at Universal CityWalk.

Here’s a list of pros and cons to recap our dining experience at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium.

PROS:

  • Receive free parking at Universal’s garage if dining after 6:00 PM
  • The building looks impressive and the Steampunk fantasy, Wonka-style decor is worth a peek
  • Most desserts are actually too much for one person (especially after a meal), therefore, if shared they’re a better value
  • During your wait, linger in the gift shop or watch the sweet treats being made
  • Playful atmosphere — children love Professor Penelope and her sidekick robot Jacques
  • A must-try for the chocoholic in your family!
  • Walk off all those calories at Universal’s CityWalk Entertainment Complex

CONS: 

  • Chocolate Emporium is a long walk from Universal’s parking garage (just before the entrance to Islands of Adventure)
  • Very long wait times — 1 1/2 to 2 hours during peak times
  • Slow customer service during busiest hours
  • Milkshakes are thin, not creamy and thick — more of a milk taste than ice cream (Cowfish at CityWalk has great milkshakes!)
  • Overall, food quality was just mediocre and somewhat disappointing, with the exception of the appetizers
  • People have reported difficulty (impossible) to maneuver to elevator with a wheelchair (hearsay, but worth noting)
  • Moderately high prices (just like most Central Florida theme park areas)
  • Desserts (food) brought up to the 2nd floor via a public elevator (a big YUCK for me!)

 

Universal Orlando CityWalk Entertainment Complex

 

 

Toothsome Chocolate Emporium Hours & Contact Info

Hours Of Operation
Sunday – Thursday: 10:30 am – midnight
Friday – Saturday: 10:30 am – 1:00 am

Contact Number
(407) 224-2691

 

QUESTION: Have you been to Toothsome Chocolate Emporium at Universal CityWalk? What was your dining experience? Please share in the comment box below, our readers would love to know!

 


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Where To Find The BEST Fish Tacos In Florida


 

Where To Find The Best Fish & Tuna Tacos in Florida

 

Fish Tacos: An Amazing Epicurean Delight

I love fish tacos, and I am perpetually looking for restaurants that have these tasty morsels from the sea. My Florida travels have taken me to some of the best fish and seafood tacos that the Sunshine State has to offer. Whether I order gourmet tuna tacos for an appetizer in a fine-dining restaurant or more traditional-style fish tacos as an entree in a dingy diner, rarely am I disappointed.

Unquestionably, fish tacos have been growing in popularity in recent years. Perhaps you have been hearing all about them, but never actually tried fish tacos for yourself. You may even be wondering what all the hype is about. Well, today I’d like to show you some of the most incredibly awesome fish and seafood tacos that I have found in Florida, and challenge you to step outside the box of traditional Mexican meat tacos and into the wonderful world of fish tacos.

Life is short. Get out of your boring-food comfort zone and treat your palate to these amazing epicurean delights.

 

Ahi Tuna Tacos from Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar

Ahi Tuna Tacos from Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar in Orlando

 

Ahi Tuna Tacos at Tommy Bahama’s Restaurant & Bar

I know, I know… Tommy Bahama is best known for boat shoes and nautical-themed weekend wear, not tacos! Hubby has been sporting their casually elegant off-the-boat island attire since its inception in 1993. I have a few sundresses from their comfy women’s resort wear collection as well.

But did you know Tommy Bahama has restaurants too? Yes, 18 of their 160+ company-owned retail stores have a restaurant & bar that will immediately transport your senses to an “islandy” state of mind. We are fortunate here in Florida to have a bunch of them. I’ve eaten at their locations in Orlando, Sarasota, West Palm Beach (now closed), and Naples (my favorite one!). Just like the Tommy Bahama apparel, the restaurants have an elegant but relaxed tropical flair. And, the island-themed restaurants from this iconic fashion brand make some of the best fish and tuna tacos I have ever eaten. Here, you can choose between ahi tuna tacos as an appetizer or blackened fish tacos as an entree.

I almost always have the ahi tuna tacos appetizer. They are truly outstanding, with melt-in-your-mouth sushi-grade tuna. The tuna tacos are served in a wonton shell with island slaw and wasabi-avocado creme. So yummy! Even if you’re not a seafood aficionado, you absolutely must try these. With an explosion of flavors and texture in your mouth, the tacos are nothing short of mind-blowing!

If you’re interested in making these tacos at home, here’s the Tommy Bahama Ahi Tuna Tacos Recipe straight from their website. I have never tried the cajun blackened fish tacos, but those who have, consistently give them 5-star reviews. Here’s the link for the Tommy Bahama Blackened Fish Tacos Recipe. In these tacos the cajun blackened fish is served in white corn tortillas and topped with tomato relish, chipotle aioli, island slaw, and lime sour cream. Hungry yet?

 

Tuna Tartar Tacos at Mango's Dockside Bistro in Marco Island

Tuna Tartar Tacos at Mango’s Dockside Bistro in Marco Island

 

Yellow Fin Tuna Tacos at Mango’s Dockside Bistro

Speaking of succulent tuna tacos, another favorite Florida restaurant is Mango’s Dockside Bistro. Mango’s is located waterfront at the Esplanade Shoppes & Marina on Smokehouse Bay, on marvelous Marco Island. This lazy little island on Florida’s Southwest Coast, along the Gulf of Mexico has some of the freshest seafood you’ll find in Florida.

Hubby and I discovered Mango’s Dockside while strolling this gorgeous coastal Italian-style village that houses upscale retailers, small specialty stores, and fine dining restaurants. If ever you’re in the Southwest Florida neighborhood, you must stop by the Esplanade. The old-world architectural detail along with lush floral landscaping and fountains exudes a relaxing coastal Italian atmosphere. While enjoying the promenade along the waterfront, we visited Mango’s Dockside for a late-afternoon reprieve.

Although Mango’s has outdoor patio dining overlooking the marina, we chose to cool down inside. We loved the tropical atmosphere, waterfall, and home decor & gift shoppe at this popular Marco Island family friendly restaurant. We happened to be there during their happy hour (Monday through Saturday from 3 – 7). I must tell you, happy hours in Florida are not just for libations. In addition to liquid refreshments, many restaurants in the Sunshine State offer incredible deals on appetizers or small plate menus. And that’s what gets me happy during happy hour — getting to try so many unique “foodie” items at awesome prices!

Hubby had the ceviche from the sushi menu, made with citrus lime marinated yellowtail, conch, tuna, salmon, octopus, cucumber, avocado, tomatoes, cilantro, onion, and jalapeno. The presentation was unique and the flavors sensational. I had the yellow fin tuna tartar tacos. The tacos were served in three crispy wontons with avocado, mango, kimchee, sesame oil, and avocado-citrus-ginger aioli. Yep, you guessed it… to die for! In fact, we liked the happy hour food at Mango’s Dockside so much we went back the next night for dinner!

 


 

Shrimp Tacos from Bahama Breeze in Lake Buena Vista Florida

Shrimp Tacos from Bahama Breeze in Lake Buena Vista Florida

 

Shrimp Tacos at Bahama Breeze

I love Bahama Breeze, a Darden-owned Caribbean-themed restaurant that specializes in fresh seafood. The food is consistently reliable and service is always good. This is one of my favorite happy hour restaurants for food. Happy hour is Monday through Friday from 4 – 6, and the appetizers are half-price. It’s not unusual for hubby and I to each have 2 or 3 appetizers, which actually becomes our dinner! I don’t know about you, but oftentimes I think my appetizer is better than my entree in many restaurants.

Bahama Breeze has many locations in Florida, so whether you’re a local or visitor you must check out their happy hour food offerings. It goes without saying that the tacos were amongst my favorite — the shrimp tacos, that is. You can check out the full Bahama Breeze Happy Hour Menu right here.

 

Crunchy Fish Tacos from Grillsmith in Lakeland Florida

Crunchy Fish Tacos from Grillsmith in Lakeland Florida

 

Fish Tacos at Grillsmith

Grillsmith is a local chain-restaurant in the Tampa Florida area with 5 locations. Whenever I go to Lakeland shopping, we have lunch at Grillsmith at the Lakeside Village Town Center. The food is always excellent and the service top-notch. And, the crunchy fish tacos are the bomb!

The tacos are served in a flour tortilla with panko breaded hand-battered cod, mango ginger salsa, red bell peppers, cilantro, Sriracha aïoli, and pad Thai slaw. Can someone say d-e-l-i-c-i-o-u-s? The mild flakey white fish contrasted with the aïoli that has just the right amount of “heat” then infused with the fruity flavor of tropical mango and the zip of ginger root… my goodness, your mouth may not even know what to do with all that awesomeness! Add a side of kicked-up fries or healthy smashed cauliflower like we do, and you’re good to go. But you won’t stay gone for long…

 

Fish Tacos from Jerry's Foods Sanibel Island Florida

 

Fish Tacos at Jerry’s Foods Sanibel

This is one of the most unlikely places to find fish tacos — at a grocery store? But then again, Jerry’s Foods in Sanibel Island Florida is not your typical grocery store. I mean how many grocery stores do you access through a tropical rainforest? Okay, so it’s not exactly a rainforest… but it is tropical, complete with tropical talking birds!

Jerry’s Foods is always our first stop, right after arriving at our Sanibel Island villa. When the unpacking is complete, we head on over to Jerry’s. This is where I buy my mouthwatering delectable pastries, cinnamon ice cream locally made in Fort Myers, and homemade soups from the salad bar.

Jerry’s also has a cafe, and it’s always loaded with locals. Why? Because the locals know where to get the best food on the island, at the best price! When we travel, we like to eat where the locals eat. We usually do lunch here, or take advantage of the nightly dinner specials. We have never had a bad meal at Jerry’s Foods. I love the fresh Florida grouper fingers, and hubby loves the fish tacos. The tacos are made with mahi mahi, either grilled blackened or fried, and served in a flour tortilla with shredded cabbage, cilantro, and pico de gallo. So delish!

Nothing Beats a Florida Fish Taco!

There’s a lot of debate about the birthplace of fish tacos (although most people believe they originated in Baja). But regardless of where or how the fish taco crossed the border, I’m so glad it did. The cool thing about fish tacos is that they can be modified to suit everyone’s tastes. Restaurants are becoming more and more creative with their fish tacos recipes, and households from California to Florida are experimenting at home with these culinary gems.

One of the [many] things I love about living in Florida is all the fresh seafood available year round, and nothing beats a Florida fish taco!

QUESTION: I’ve shared a few of my favorite tacos and would love to know about your’s. Where’s the BEST place in Florida for fish (or seafood) tacos? Please share in the comment box below, our reader’s would love to know.         

 


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The Bubble Room Captiva Island: A Kitsch Eatery

 

The Bubble Room on Captiva Island - A Kitsch Eatery

The Bubble Room on Captiva Island – A Kitsch Eatery

 

Captiva Island: A Compact Mass of Crazy Color

The first time I drove by the Bubble Room on Captiva Island, I knew I would have to try it.  The bold colors and outrageously eccentric exterior of this restaurant can’t be missed from the highway, and immediately piques your interest.  In fact, the quirky conglomerate of outdoor decorations scream for your attention.  I mean, how often do you see year-round Christmas decorations mixed with vintage vehicles, rainbow-colored bridges and awnings, antique soda signs from yesteryear, gnomes guarding the gate, and Bo-Bo’s gorilla cage all mixed together in perfect harmony?  (And our brains were trained to believe those tiny old men with a beard and pointed hat only existed in children’s stories!)

 

The Bubble Room Gorilla Cage - Great Photo Op!

The Bubble Room Gorilla Cage

 

Hubby and I were vacationing at one of our favorite destinations, sensational Sanibel Island, and had decided to take the scenic drive up to Captiva Island, a teeny-tiny sliver of land nestled between Florida’s southwest coast and the Gulf of Mexico.  It didn’t take long to realize this whole island has a slightly off-kilter feel.  [Maybe magical is a better word.]  Although very close neighbors, Captiva has a very different atmosphere than Sanibel…actually, different from most other Florida towns — somewhat amusingly unconventional really.  The Bubble Room was not the only bizarre-looking structure on Captiva.  Much of Captiva was like one of those crazy colorful cupcakes you see at toddler birthday parties.  The island is definitely one of those highly “instagrammable” spots in America!  Captiva Island can thank the Bubble Room for all that crazy color, as it was one of the first structures to introduce the bright and cheerful colors now widely used on the island.

 

The Cupcake Colors of Captiva Island Florida

The Cupcake Colors of Captiva Island

 


2-Day West Coast Florida Tour: Everglades Park, Gulf of Mexico, Sanibel Island and Outlet Shopping

from: Viator

 

The Bubble Room on Captiva Island — A Totally Unique Restaurant Experience

The Bubble Room is located at 15001 Captiva Drive, Captiva Island, Florida, and is an island institution since 1979.  When restaurants stick around for four decades, you know they’re doing something right!  The Bubble Room has received the prestigious Trip Advisor “Certificate of Excellence” designation, and has been featured on The Food Network’s “Craziest Restaurants in America.”  The Bubble Room restaurant also appears in some of those “Best Of” lists, like “The Best of Weird Florida” and “Trippy Stuff.”  When your name is associated with adjectives like crazy and weird and trippy, you know the restaurant is going to be a delicious holiday from the ordinary!  At the Bubble Room, lunch is served from 11:30-3:00, and dinner from 4:30-9:00, seven days a week.

 

Florida's Most Outrageous & Award-winning Restaurant on Captiva Island

Florida’s Most Outrageous & Award-winning Restaurant

 

Lunch at the Bubble Room

Hubby and I made it just in time to have a late lunch at the Bubble Room.  Since we were combining lunch and dinner, we wanted something substantial.  We were pleased to see the menu included a nice variety of luncheon entrees, in addition to soup, salad, and sandwich choices.  The appetizers sounded awesome as well, but we wanted to save room for their specialty, the homemade cakes.

Some of the original menu items from 1979 are still offered, like the Socra Cheese, Bubble Bread, Carolina Moons, Tarzan, Eddie Fisherman, and some of the delicious oversized desserts.

I had the “Smoke Gets In Your Eyes” entree — a fillet of fresh salmon, grilled and brushed with a blend of honey, soy, and pineapple.  It was served with Caribbean rice and black beans.  Hubby had the “Jumpin’ Jive” entree — a grilled fresh fillet of grouper, topped with a spicy tropical fruit salsa and served with Caribbean rice and black beans.  The quality of both seafood entrees were outstanding, and tasted as if the fish had just come off the boat.

At the end of our meal, our “bubble scout” (servers wear scout uniforms) presented the much anticipated dessert tray.  Oh my goodness!  Even if you must get a to-go container, these decadent sweet treats are not to be missed.  With ten different dessert selections, it was hard choosing just two.  I decided on the famous and hugely popular Orange Crunch Cake, and hubby had the Tropical Breeze Cake.  Be forewarned: the cakes are humongous!  Plenty big enough for sharing, but I recommend each person getting their own and taking the leftovers home.  Since we were there for lunch, unfortunately we didn’t get to sample the Bubble Room’s popular Bubble Bread and Cinnamon Buns that are brought right out to the table during dinner hours.  I hear they are to-die-for — reason enough for a return visit!

TIP:  I know you’re going to want the Orange Crunch Cake recipe, so I searched online for a copycat recipe. Here’s a great one from Genius Kitchen website that gets rave reviews.  This link will take you right to the Bubble Room Orange Crunch Cake recipe.  I loved this cake, but apparently I’m not alone, as it has developed quite a cult following.  Don’t you love it when you can get your favorite restaurant recipes at home?

 

The Bubble Room's Fantastic Lunch Entrees - Specializing in Fresh Seafood

The Bubble Room’s Fantastic Lunch Entrees – Specializing in Fresh Seafood

 

Bubble Room Lunch Menu - Nice Variety

Bubble Room Lunch Menu – Nice Variety

 

Dolphin Cruise from The Florida Aquarium in Tampa Bay – $37.49

The Florida Aquarium in Tampa Bay is offering cruises aboard a 72-foot, 130-passenger catamaran, officially named Bay Spirit II. The Aquarium has partnered with the Tampa Port Authority in order to bring this important project to life. Also included is admission to the Florida Aquarium.

 

The Bubble Room’s Quirky Decor

The decor inside the Bubble Room is unlike anything I’ve experienced.  I don’t normally dine where Christmas, nostalgia, antiques, and Hollywood are all rolled into one — a unique vibe, to say the least. There are tons of cool memorabilia throughout, in multiple rooms on three floors, including on the ceilings.  In fact, there isn’t a square foot in the Bubble Room that doesn’t have some kind of vintage decor. There are Hollywood movie posters, bubble lights, planes, moving trains, antique toys from the 30s & 40s, clowns, and the iconic Christmas displays.  They even have an original Christmas scene from Macy’s Department Store.  Being in the Bubble Room is kind of like taking a trip down memory lane.  Even the tables in the restaurant are shadow box style with nostalgic items to view while eating.  The background music consists of old tunes composed in the 20s, 30s, & 40s.  In its early years, the Bubble Room was popular with many visiting stars of cinema, hence the introduction of Hollywood posters with some of our idols from the big screen.

 

The Bubble Room's Quirky Decor!

The Bubble Room’s Quirky Decor!

 

Bubble Room's Iconic Kitschy Decor

Bubble Room’s Iconic Kitschy Decor

 

The Bubble Room Bar on Captiva Island

The Bubble Room Bar

 

The Bubble Room Gift Emporium

Another cool thing about the Bubble Room is the on-site Gift Emporium.  It’s worth a peek either before or after your meal.  You can pick up a Bubble Room T-shirt, coffee mug, can koozie, etched beer glass, Bubble Room playing cards, Christmas ornaments, and of coarse those infamous bubble lights from yesteryear! In addition to the Bubble Room-themed gifts, they have some inexpensive jewelry.  I picked up two nice bracelets, both under $10.  If you visited the restaurant and missed the opportunity to get a special momento, you can order from the Bubble Room Emporium’s online store here.

 

The Bubble Room Gift Emporium on Captiva Island

The Bubble Room Gift Emporium

 

Bubble Room Gift Ideas

Bubble Room Gift Ideas

 

The Bubble Room — An Iconic Captiva Island Landmark

I highly recommend a visit to the Bubble Room if you’re passing through the beaches of Fort Myers, Sanibel, or Captiva.  You gotta go at least once.  No, there isn’t a water view at the Bubble Room, but there is plenty to look at while you dine.  If you find yourself in need of some Christmas cheer, head out to this colorful restaurant that celebrates the holiday season 365 days a year.  Yeah, it’s a little over-the-top with the kitschy decor, but the weirdness is matched with indulgent eats like creative fresh seafood and steak entrees, mouth-watering appetizers, garlic and cheese smothered Bubble Bread, and massive slices of cake.

Your southwest Gulf Coast Florida vacation isn’t complete without visiting this treasure trove of nostalgia with a serving of fantastic food and fun on the side!

TIP:  Interested in other fun things to do while visiting the beaches of Fort Myers, Sanibel Island, or Captiva?  Check out this popular article on FloridaFunAndFork: “Sanibel Island Things To Do And Recommended Day Trips!”

 

***Have a suggestion for another fun and fantastic eatery on the islands of Florida’s Southwest Gulf Coast?  Our readers would love to hear about it!  Please leave a reply in the “comment” box below! 

 


Fort Myers Coastal Sealife Dolphin and Shelling Cruise

from: Viator

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Epcot Festival of the Arts Premier – Review and Photos


 

Epcot International Festival of the Arts

Epcot International Festival of the Arts

 

Epcot Festival of the Arts Premier

Epcot has a brand new festival.  It’s called the Epcot International Festival of the Arts.  The inaugural event runs from January 13 – February 20, Fridays through Mondays only.  This first-ever celebration is the result of mixing visual, culinary, and performing arts inspired by cultures from all over the world.  Anytime you introduce something new, there’s always room for improvement.  Disney knows that better than any other company out there.  It’s a given that future Festival of the Arts will be bigger and better than this initial one, but honestly, they set the bar pretty high — higher than my expectations.

Initially, I thought they probably just came up with a concept to fill in the low-attendance time period between the holidays and the beginning of the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival (see photos of the 2016 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival here).  I was convinced it was simply Disney flexing their master-marketing muscles; a month-long money-making scheme in the middle of the off-season.  I was wrong!

 

Color Abounds at Epcot Festival of the Arts!

Color Abounds at Epcot Festival of the Arts!

 

Color and Creativity Everywhere!

For a moment, upon entering the theme park, I thought I was at the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival.  On display at the main entrance was a sea of sensational color — gorgeous fuchsia and purple blooms.  It looked like someone had taken gallons of brightly colored paint and splattered them everywhere; eye catching, to say the least.  This spectacular burst of color set the stage for what was to come at the Festival of the Arts; I’m sure it was strategic.

 

Colorful Entrance to Epcot's Festival of the Arts

Colorful Entrance to Epcot’s Festival of the Arts

 

A Sea of Sensational Color at Epcot Festival of the Arts

A Sea of Sensational Color at Epcot Festival of the Arts

 

Epcot Living Statues

After leaving the impressive picturesque area just inside the front gate (probably the best “selfie” spot in the entire park), I couldn’t wait to encounter the next “wow” moment at the Festival of the Arts.  I didn’t have to wait long.  There was live entertainment at the Fountain View Stage and Plaza in Future World.  Well, maybe “live” isn’t the best word to describe it.  There were three different life-size cast figures expertly sculpted; one in silver, the next in gold, and the third in a bronze material.  A large crowd had gathered around the human representations, so of course I had to investigate the reason for their popularity.  Turns out the statuaries were alive and breathing.  Well, I never seen them blink or utter a word, but I know real blood was running through their veins because I did see them move at times.

Long lines had formed by families who watched in awe as the statues came to life.  Sporadically they would interact with guests posing for photos.  Every now and then the calculated moves were downright hilarious. The living statues brought back fond memories of the ones that used to be stationed around the France Pavilion many years ago.  The death of Epcot’s living statues was a sad day for me, so imagine my joy to witness their resurrection at the Festival of the Arts.

NOTE…   The entertainment in this area changes throughout the day.  I got to see the remarkable living statues, but you may see a vocal ensemble singing American pop tunes, a festive marching band, a splendid jazz quartet, or a lively choral performance by some of Central Florida’s finest high schools and universities.

 

Living Statues at the Festival of the Arts

Living Statues at the Festival of the Arts

 

Living Statues at the Festival of the Arts

Living Statues at the Festival of the Arts

 

Living Statues at the Festival of the Arts

Living Statues at the Festival of the Arts

 

Galleries Throughout the Park

As I walked away from the living statues, I couldn’t help but think, “How in the world do they do that?” Some of these street artists pose as statues for hours at a time.  Incredible concentration and focus!

Well, I had only been inside the Festival of the Arts for less than half an hour, but I was already loving it.  The immense amount of creative gifts and talents in the world never ceases to amaze me.  My next stop was one of the Art Galleries spread throughout the park at  the Odyssey Festival Showplace in Future World East. On display here was the work of Mary Blair, Herb Ryman, and some Disney Original Art.  I’m under strict orders from hubby not to bring home any more artwork, so my willpower was getting quite a workout browsing the masterpieces on display.  There was a variety of artistic styles, which made my window shopping even more enjoyable.

 

Artwork by Mary Blair and Herb Ryman on Display

Artwork by Mary Blair and Herb Ryman on Display

 

Disney Original Art

Disney Original Art

 

 

Food Studios at the International Festival of the Arts

Regardless of which Epcot festival you attend, it just wouldn’t be as memorable without the creative food offerings that are custom-made for each event; food items that aren’t available any other time of year.  We were first introduced to food kitchens at Disney’s Food and Wine Festival, then food kiosks at International Flower and Garden Festival were added, and here they are again at the Festival of the Arts.  Only this time, the food was waaaay more gourmet-ish!  Each small plate was an edible work of art almost too beautiful to destroy, rivaling the presentation and flavors found in any 5-star restaurant.  The prices ranged from $6 – $14, a bit hefty for just a few bites, but no regrets here.  In all fairness, each one was quite labor intensive to put together.  Watching the chefs work their mouth-watering magic made the delectable morsels even more wonderful.  Hubby and I tried eight different gourmet treats; each was flat-out fantastic!

 

Deconstructive BLT with Crispy Pork Belly, Tomato Jam, and Soft Poached Egg

Deconstructed BLT with Crispy Pork Belly, Tomato Jam, and Soft Poached Egg

 

Shrimp Ceviche with Lime-Mint Foam

Shrimp Ceviche with Lime-Mint Foam

 

Charcuterie Palette with Artisan Cured Meats, Applewood-smoked Duck Breast, and Cheese

Charcuterie Palette with Artisan Cured Meats, Applewood-smoked Duck Breast, and Cheese

 

Smoked Salmon Tartare, Caviar, Crisp Lavash, and Traditional Accompaniments

Smoked Salmon Tartare, Caviar, Crisp Lavash, and Traditional Accompaniments

 

Pan-seared Scallop with Chorizo, Roasted Red Pepper Coulis, and Parmesan Crisp

Pan-seared Scallop with Chorizo, Roasted Red Pepper Coulis, and Parmesan Crisp

 

Braised Beef Short Rib with Parsnip Puree, Broccolini, Baby Tomatoes, and Aged Balsamic

Braised Beef Short Rib with Parsnip Puree, Broccolini, Baby Tomatoes, and Aged Balsamic

 

Port Wine-poached Pear, Vanilla Panna Cotta, and Pistachio Crumbs

Port Wine-poached Pear, Vanilla Panna Cotta, and Pistachio Crumbs

 

 

Meet the Artists!

Each weekend of the Epcot Festival of the Arts features different artists.  A highlight of our visit was meeting the various creators.  Every one of them shared unique facts and tidbits about their creative art skills.  To me, the stories behind the art can be as incredible as the art itself!  For example, we met Jeff Laibson who specializes in the art of music.  Each musically inspired piece is full of rhythm, and emotionally evocative. You see, this artist is also a renowned composer; a musician who has performed all over the world with some very famous people.  He later became a professor of music at the University of Miami.  His artwork was absolutely amazing, and the conversation as warm as an old friendship.

Then there was Rodel Gonzalez.  He’s got artistic DNA from his father and grandfather, who were artists. His artistry, like Jeff Laibson,  also became evident in the field of music.  At the age of 20 he founded “Side A” in the Philippines.  He was the lead singer and the band’s most prolific songwriter.  The band is still active today and is currently the longest-lived band in Manila.

When you attend the Festival of the Arts, don’t just scurry by the displays that are not your “style” — take a moment to engage the artist.  I guarantee you will learn something!

 

Artwork by Jeff Laibson

Artwork by Jeff Laibson

 

A Masterpiece Taking Shape Right Before Our Eyes!

A Masterpiece Taking Shape Right Before Our Eyes!

 

Live Painting of a Mural

Live Painting of a Mural

 

Colorful Creations at Epcot Festival of the Arts

Colorful Creations at Epcot Festival of the Arts

 

Imaginative Chalk Artists

Imaginative Chalk Artists

 

 

In Conclusion…

What happens when you mix visual, culinary, and performing arts inspired by cultures from all around the world?  You get a global masterpiece!  You get the Epcot International Festival of the Arts!   I believe the inaugural event was a success, at least in my book.  I’m sure Disney has just laid the foundation of something awesome that will be built upon for many years to come.  Kudos to “the Mouse” for producing a top-notch artistic production to fill the void between holiday happiness and those first blooms of spring at Epcot!

 

 

Have you been to the inaugural Epcot International Festival of the Arts?  Please share your experience with our readers.  Or, perhaps you have a question about this premier event.  Reply in the comment box below — I’ll try my best to answer it!

 


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The Back Porch Restaurant in Lake Alfred – Review and Photos


 

The Main Dining Room at The Back Porch Restaurant

The Main Dining Room at The Back Porch Restaurant

 

The Back Porch — A Unique Dining Experience

As a Florida resident living in Disney’s backyard (well, not literally, but a mere 30 minutes away!), I’m perpetually searching for off-the-beaten-path non-touristy eateries and attractions.  Alas… I found a hidden little gem that many Central Florida residents don’t even know exists.  The Back Porch restaurant is a one-of-a-kind, unusual dining experience.  The concept is one I had previously never seen.  I’ve had lunch there about a half-dozen times, and it never disappoints.

So, what makes The Back Porch so uniquely different from most other restaurants?  The following Restaurant Review shows why it’s distinct and noteworthy.

 

The Back Porch Restaurant

The Back Porch Restaurant

 

The Back Porch — Along Florida’s Antique Trail

The Back Porch is located in The Barn Antiques and shopping complex in Lake Alfred, Florida.  It’s in an area of Central Florida known as The Antique Trail whereby serious antique buffs spend 3-4 days making a loop from Lakeland to Winter Haven to Lake Alfred to Plant City and Lake Wales to find that one priceless treasure they hope The Antique Road Show will appraise exponentially higher than what they paid for it.  (You know… the trash to treasure kinda thing!)

The Barn Antiques is a family owned business selling high-end antiques since 1969.  But what began five decades ago as an antique store on a family ranch has grown into a magnet for shoppers.  It’s now a sprawling complex of shops.  Right next to the antiques store is The Stable Home Decor which sells moderate to high-end home furnishings and women’s accessories.  On the opposite end is The Season’s Gift Shop, overflowing with holiday and seasonal decorations.  Across from that is The Back Yard Garden Shop, an outdoor shopping experience under a canopy of native shade trees.  All four shops and the restaurant have been managed and run by members of the Wales family for the past 48 years.  (Here’s my article and photos of the four retail shops.)  The Back Porch was created for a delicious break for hungry shoppers who tend to spend hours browsing the ever-changing jammed-packed shops in this complex.

 

The Back Porch Restaurant Menu

The Back Porch Restaurant Menu

 

The Back Porch — A Picnic Lunch

The unique thing about The Back Porch is that it’s a picnic-style lunch that’s mostly self-service.  Here’s how it works…

  • Upon entering, pick up a paper menu (photo above) and seat yourself
  • Fill out your menu with the pencils provided on the table
  • Put your name and table number on the little yellow sticky tab
  • Take your menu to one of the registers to pay
  • Help yourself to a soda, spiced raspberry tea, or coffee (beer & wine available on the deck)
  • Your lunch is delivered in a quaint wooden picnic basket

 

 

Table #26 at The Back Porch Restaurant

Table #26 at The Back Porch Restaurant

 

Hubby's Picnic Lunch at The Back Porch Restaurant

Hubby’s Picnic Lunch at The Back Porch Restaurant

 

Country Flare Meets Shabby Chic

I really like this place.  Even when busy (which is most of the time), it’s relaxing.  It has a comfortable atmosphere and the decor is a cross between country flare and shabby chic.  The ambience, like the restaurant concept itself, is truly unique.  There are large stained glass windows in the main dining room, and the table tops are hand painted with wild flowers by Jan Wales (this whole family is so darn creative and talented!).  Off of the main dining room is a smaller private room that can be reserved for special events such as birthdays, showers, or a women’s luncheon.  Another seating option is the wrap-around covered deck, called The Shady Deck.  This is a great opportunity to enjoy the year-round warm Central Florida weather.  The deck overlooks a beautiful nature pond and has its own outside entrance.  The Shady Deck serves ice cream and refreshing beverages including beer, wine, frozen sangrias, frozen mimosas, frozen lemonade, and soda (with free refills).

 

Beautiful Stained Glass Windows

Beautiful Stained Glass Windows

 

Beverage Station for The Shady Deck

Beverage Station for The Shady Deck

 

The Shady Deck Separate Entrance

The Shady Deck Separate Entrance

 


 

Charming Spot for Inexpensive Casual American Eats

At The Back Porch you won’t find escargot, oysters Rockefeller, pub burgers, trendy flatbreads, creme brûlée or any other gourmet fare.  Nope.  This is good old fashioned American casual eats!  Choices like creamy vegetable soup, potato salad, blue cheese slaw, chicken salad on a croissant, ham bar-b-cue, and Florida strawberry cream cake.  And they always offer specials-of-the-day.  The best value is to choose one item from each of four categories — soup, salad, sandwich, and dessert for $8.52, a good deal in which owner Drew Wales says there has not been a price increase in 7 years, even though the price of doing business has gone up considerably.  If you have little tikes, they can have their own “Teddy Bear Picnic Basket” with at least 3 choices, all under five dollars.

Now typically, a four-course lunch would be a little much for the middle of the day, but not at The Back Porch.  Portions are not huge, but I always leave comfortably satisfied.  This is not the kind of lunch that will cause you to forfeit dinner, and I’ve never seen anyone asking for a doggie bag.  You won’t feel stuffed and lethargic, just pleasantly full and energized for more shopping.  Even men with larger appetites seem to enjoy the lunches here.  As long as you realize it’s a lovely place for a “light” lunch, you won’t be disappointed.  After all, it is a picnic-style lunch, not the likes of an Olive Garden with all-you-can-eat soup, salad and breadsticks.  But that’s the beauty of The Back Porch!

Even though the food is simple, many of the items have a unique twist to them, like the Slaw for example, made with their own Blue Cheese Dressing (an excellent choice!).  Everything is homemade, with recipes that have been in the Wales family since opening 45+ years ago.  I also appreciate the seasonal options they incorporate into the menu.  When I was there right before Christmas, I had the red velvet cake with red and green sprinkles for dessert.  Quite yummy, and very festive looking!  And, in keeping with the picnic theme, everything served in the individual wooden picnic baskets is eaten from disposable containers… just as if you were on a real picnic!

***TIP… It’s not unusual for The Back Porch to serve up to 500 meals a day, therefore, a late lunch between 1:30-2:00 seems to be less busy.

***TIP… The restrooms in The Back Porch also serve the rest of the shopping complex.  As a result, there is typically a bit of a wait; plan accordingly.  The good news: While you’re waiting feel free to browse the great selection of food items offered for sale.  There are jams, sauces, dip mixes, soup mixes, etc. along with cute little sessional gift items.

 

My Picnic Lunch at The Back Porch Restaurant

My Picnic Lunch at The Back Porch Restaurant

 

Gift Items at The Back Porch Restaurant

Gift Items at The Back Porch Restaurant

 

The Back Porch… A Slice of “Old Florida!”

The Back Porch is a refreshing change of pace for locals looking to get away from the touristy hustle and bustle that is synonymous with Central Florida.  I’m always amazed that despite being in the middle of nowhere, business is bustling here.  Nevertheless, people are not in a hurry, no one is stepping on my toes, and any wait time is spent chatting with like-minded souls yearning for a slice of “Old Florida.”  There are no billboards or other advertising means, simply word-of-mouth.  But as they say, “If it’s not broke, don’t fix it!”

 

The Back Porch "Rules!"

The Back Porch “Rules!”

 

The Back Porch — Directions and Hours

Like me, you may have driven near The Back Porch a thousand times with no idea it existed.  It can be somewhat difficult to find unless someone tells you about it.  Years ago, my girlfriend told me about this special little spot — and now, I’m passing my little secret on to you…

From Interstate 4

Take Exit 48, Hwy. 557, 3 miles South

From Hwy. 17/92 in Lake Alfred

At the intersection of Hwy. 17/92 and E. Pomelo follow signs to Interstate 4 on Hwy. 557 – 4 miles

Hours

Lunch served from 11 to 3, Tuesday though Saturday (closed Sundays and Mondays)

 

Have you been to The Back Porch restaurant for a picnic lunch? Please share your experience.  Or, perhaps you have a little-known secret dining spot of your own.  Our readers would love to hear about it.  Simply post a comment in the reply box below!

 


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Winter Park Food Tour – Review and Photos

Winter Park Food Tour

Winter Park Food Tour

 

Winter Park Walking Food Tour

Need a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of Central Florida’s touristy attractions?  As a long-time Florida resident I’m always searching for non-touristy ways to take a theme park break.  So, I was delighted when I came across the Winter Park Walking Food Tour.  It combines one of my favorite things (food), in one of my favorite cities (Winter Park)!

This was not my first Food Tour gig.  In fact, my very first Florida Food Tour was in sensational St. Augustine.  A few years ago, as part of my 25th Wedding Anniversary trip, my hubby and I did the Vittles and Vino VIP Carriage Tour.  It remains one of the highest rated Food Tours in North Florida, and with good reason.  It’s a 3 hour food and wine tasting extravaganza via horse drawn carriage!  On a scale of 1 to 10, it was a 12!  Obviously, the Winter Park Food Tour had to be outstanding to measure up to that experience. So, was it?  Here’s my review…

 

Sweet Rachael, Our Tour Guide!

Sweet Rachael, Our Tour Guide!

 

A Perfect Introduction to the History, Culture, & Architecture of Winter Park

Our tour began on picturesque Park Avenue. This famous street is well-known for its many unique specialty shops and beloved restaurants, most of which include a perfect-for-people-watching sidewalk cafe.  That’s where we met our sweet tour guide, Rachael, and the other pleasant, like-minded people in our group.

***TIP…  Since this is a walking Food Tour, you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes.  For anyone with mobility challenges it’s important to know the Food Tour encompasses about 1.3 miles.  It’s a fair amount of walking, but paced very well.  It’s also a “rain or shine” event, so keep an eye on the weather forecast. An umbrella or rain gear may be in order during Florida’s rainy season.

Rachael allowed ample opportunity for each one of us to introduce ourselves.  Some of us were locals, while others were out-of-town visitors to the Central Florida area.  Rachael explained that interspersed throughout our 6 culinary stops would be interesting historical facts about Winter Park, its cultural heritage, and a glimpse of some amazing architectural building designs.  (Awesome and amazing they were!)  Even as a local, I didn’t realize Winter Park was so rich in history.

Mr. Loring Chase, who visited Florida in 1881, is accredited as Winter Park’s founder.  He was a Chicago businessman who suffered from chronic bronchitis and was urged by his doctor to winter in a warm climate.  Certainly, his pain was our gain!  You’ll learn that this beautiful little town has gained quite a reputation as an art and literary community.  Did you know that Winter Park houses the world’s largest collection of Tiffany glass?  If time allows, you can visit the Morse Museum of American Art to see it.  (You can read my review here.)  On the Food Tour you’ll pass right by the museum.  Your tour guide may also mention the beautiful sculptures at the Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens.  (Here’s a review and photo tour of this incredible place!)

 

The Morse Museum - Largest Collection of Tiffany Glass

The Morse Museum – Largest Collection of Tiffany Glass

 

Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens

Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens

 

The Parkview — Our 1st Stop

Located at 136 S. Park Avenue, The Parkview is so much more than the advertised label of “Wine Bar.”  The food was fantastic.  They specialize in tapas-sized light bites, flatbreads, and crostini’s but also have a few entree items on the menu.  We had the Buffalo Mozzarella Crostini.  So good!  It included Buffalo Mozzarella, Heirloom Tomatoes, Local Micro Basil, Balsamic Pearls, and Pesto.  A few Micro Greens were also served on the side.  It was my favorite food item on the Tour.  The Parkview is also known for its boutique wines and craft beer but we were served a Mimosa Cocktail.

***TIP…  For non-alcoholic drinkers like myself, all of our stops offered a non-alcoholic alternative beverage.  Be sure to tell your tour guide beforehand, and they will arrange for a substitute with the vendors.

 

Our Great Group of Foodies at The Parkview!

Our Great Group of Foodies at The Parkview!

 

Buffalo Mozzarella Crostini

Buffalo Mozzarella Crostini

 

The Ancient Olive — An Introduction to Olive Oil Tasting

A short stroll from The Parkview was our second stop, The Ancient Olive.  It’s located just off Park Avenue in one of Winter Park’s most picturesque settings called The Hidden Garden.  This charming little courtyard is home to some very unique shops and several restaurants.  The area has an entirely different feel from the high-energy vibe and distractions of Park Avenue.  Genuinely peaceful; I love to linger by the soothing fountain.  The atmosphere in this little hide-a-way is ideal for the incurable romanticist.

What a perfect place then for a new kind of tasting bar.  No, it’s not wine or beer.  This tasting room features more than 55 flavored extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars.  The oils are imported from Australia, Tunisia, Greece, Spain, and Italy.  It was an epicurean adventure that I hadn’t embarked upon previously.  Did you know there’s a proper technique for tasting olive oil?  I didn’t.  But much like wine tasting, olive oil tasting is a special skill.  During our mini-workshop at The Ancient Olive I learned that it’s very much a sensory experience.  Here’s my condensed version of it:

  1. Pour a little bit of olive oil into a small wineglass
  2. Cup the glass in one hand and cover it with the other to trap the aromas inside
  3. Hold it for a minute or two in order to warm it
  4. Swirl it, then stick your nose into the glass and take a good whiff of the aroma
  5. Take a generous sip of the oil, sucking air through the oil to coax more aromas out of it
  6. Close your mouth and breathe out through your nose
  7. Now swallow some, or all of the oil
  8. Expect it to be fruity, pungent, or bitter
  9. Repeat.  The traditional palate cleanser between olive oils is water (plain or sparkling) and slices of Granny Smith apple

Our olive oil tasting was both fun and educational.  Various specialty food samples were also provided — Spanish olives, French mustards, award-winning preserves, and dry-cured sausages.  Afterwards, we had ample time to browse additional gourmet items in the shop.  Hubby and I did a little Christmas shopping and picked up our bags after the Food Tour ended.

***Here’s a short 2-minute video clip of The Ancient Olive on their website.

 

The Ancient Olive

The Ancient Olive

 

Our Tasting Instructor

Our Tasting Instructor

 

Olive Oil & Balsamic Vinegar Tasting Bar

Olive Oil & Balsamic Vinegar Tasting Bar

 

Gourmet Goodies from The Ancient Olive

Gourmet Goodies from The Ancient Olive – Yes, that’s a Football-shaped Summer Sausage

 

Casa Feliz — Old World Elegance

Our next stop was a history break at 656 N. Park Ave.  The Robert Bruce Barbour House, more affectionately known as Casa Feliz is a restored Spanish farmhouse designed by architect James Gamble Rogers II.  This Historic Home Museum is open to the public during limited hours, but is more often used as a popular wedding ceremony and reception venue.  With its old-world romantic charm, this is the perfect place for a true fairytale wedding.  Ironically, one of the couple’s in our group had recently been wed there!

 

Casa Feliz Historic Home & Venue

Casa Feliz Historic Home & Venue

 

Casa Feliz Rear Courtyard

Casa Feliz Rear Courtyard

 

The Spice & Tea Exchange

Up next on the Winter Park Food Tour was The Spice & Tea Exchange located at 309 N. Park Ave.  If you love exotic tea, spices, herbs, and unique flavors this is the place for you.  Perhaps you’ve heard of this one-of-a-kind shopping experience, since the stores are franchised with 50+ nationwide.  Florida has 13 locations.

Every now and then I like a little ‘comfort in a cup’ but I’m far from a tea aficionado.  Since I rarely venture outside my comfort zone of Earl Grey or Chai, I didn’t approach this stop very enthusiastically.  But, once again, it was an educational crash-course in the art of sipping and cooking with fine loose-leaf teas, spices, sea and mineral salts, and naturally flavored sugars.  The good news, I learned, is that you don’t have to be a connoisseur of these oftentimes hard-to-find ingredients in order to cook with them.  The staff was very friendly and quick to offer help, suggestions, or recipes.

We sampled Matcha Holiday Bark.  It was outstanding!  It’s a sweet and salty white chocolate bark with a slightly green color because of the Matcha tea.  It was topped with Cypress White Sea Salt and Dried Cranberries.  (Here’s the recipe.)  Oh my, so good!  But then came my biggest disappointment of the day… I couldn’t buy it!  Nope.  They only sell the ingredients, not the finished product.  They offered the recipe card, but Christmas was fast approaching and there was no way I had time to make the bark.  We also tasted a Pumpkin Spiced Soup which hubby didn’t like at all, and I thought it was just okay.

If you’re in need of a unique gift idea, especially for those who love to experiment in the kitchen, The Spice & Tea Exchange has a plethora of options.  I picked up some pretty cool information here, but it was far from my favorite stop.

 

The Spice & Tea Exchange of Winter Park

The Spice & Tea Exchange of Winter Park

 

Our Tasting Instructor

Our Tasting Instructor

 

The Tea & Spice Exchange Interior

The Tea & Spice Exchange Interior

 

Braccia Pizzeria & Ristorante

Our culinary journey continued at Braccia Pizzeria & Ristorante.  It’s located at 153 E. Morse Blvd., just a few steps off Park Avenue.  The cuisine is kind of like a Brazil meets Italy thing.  The pizzas at Braccia are authentic Brazilian, which are thin and crispy pies.  The restaurant has a full menu, but only the pizza was included in our Food Tour.  Our group was served 3 pizzas for the 12 of us.  Initially, I thought that was somewhat of a small portion, but it turned out to be sufficient.  Most of us were able to have 2 slices, thereby sampling 2 out of the 3 varieties.  Since it’s not the traditional American version of pizza which tends to be heavier on the cheese and sauces sitting atop a lot more dough, this ultra-thin-crust style didn’t leave us with a ‘stuffed’ feeling.  To me, it was almost like a flatbread with gourmet toppings.

Our pizzas were the Margherita, Arugula with Dried Tomato, and the Chicken with Catupiry (Catupiry is one of the most popular ‘soft cheese’ brands in Brazil).  I tried the latter 2 flavors.  I thought both were very good.  Our group also had a glass of wine; red or white, it was their choice.  I liked the atmosphere here.  Braccia is a small unassuming little spot off the main drag, but I would definitely return.  Since Park Avenue eateries tend to be more crowded, noisy, and expensive, Braccia is well worth a detour.  The owners are well aware their location is not obvious to those strolling Park Avenue, so they usually have a representative standing on the corner of Park and Morse giving away pizza samples.  The day we were there it was Brie with Apricot Pizza.  I know, sounds more like dessert, right?  It’s one of the highest priced on the menu — but it was surprisingly awesome!  I’d order it in a heartbeat.  I like the way they think outside of the box when it comes to pizza toppings.  And really, to be a bone fide foodie, new experiences that broaden your culinary horizon are a requirement — not to mention we strongly dislike fussy eaters, (and most of our vacations revolve around food!).

***TIP…  If you happen to be in Winter Park and just want dessert, Braccia is perfect.  They have 3 sweet pizza choices; Banana with Cinnamon Pizza, Serenata de Amor Pizza (chocolate pizza), and Romeo and Juliet Pizza (white cheese and guava syrup).  And, I’ve heard the Homemade Churros with Dulce de Leche dipping sauce are to die for!

 

Braccia Pizzeria & Ristorante Interior

Braccia Pizzeria & Ristorante Interior

 

Margherita Pizza

Margherita Pizza at Braccia

 

Kilwins — Sweet in Every Sense Since 1947!

As with all progressive meals, we expect to have a sweet ending.  Kilwins was the first of 2 dessert stops. It’s a franchised old-fashioned confectionery selling chocolates, ice cream, fudge, handmade sweets, and gift baskets.  The location is 122 N. Park Avenue, which was precisely where our tour group originally met. From the moment I walked into the store my senses leaped with joy.  I watched the handmade fudge being paddled to creamy perfection on a marble table, and the caramel apples and turtles in the dessert case were almost more than I could bear.

Our samples included 1 of their 32 flavors of ice cream and a piece of fudge.  The ice cream was delicious, and while the fudge was tasty, it was a tad bit too soft and gooey for me (typically, I’m a fudge fanatic).  I could tell by the very long lines that Kilwins is a popular Winter Park sweet spot.  And, honestly, it’s almost impossible to walk by without going inside.  You’ll catch a whiff of deliciousness a block away!  Just follow your nose… it knows where to go!  And don’t be shy about those “free samples,” the staff is just waiting for you to find a new favorite.  Pricey?  Sure, like most things on Park Avenue… but you’re worth it!

 

Kilwins Ice Cream and Fudge Tasting

Kilwins Ice Cream and Fudge Tasting

 

Handmade Fudge Being Made on a Marble Table

Handmade Fudge Being Made on a Marble Table

 

Handmade Caramel Goodies!

Handmade Caramel Goodies!

 

Winter Park Sidewalk Art in Central Park

As we journeyed to our final food stop, we took a leisurely stroll through Winter Park’s famous “Central Park.”  It’s an 11-acre park with a gorgeous peacock fountain (with a tear-jerking inspirational story behind it) and rose garden — the crown jewel of all the parks in that town.  Many seasonal events and festivals are held here throughout the year.  Rachael stopped long enough to give us a few more historical tidbits. Afterwards, we got to enjoy the incredible artistic ability and creativity of some Winter Park Middle School students.  Their sidewalk art was brilliant!

 

Central Park Sidewalk Art in Winter Park

Central Park Sidewalk Art in Winter Park

 

Central Park Sidewalk Art in Winter Park

Central Park Sidewalk Art in Winter Park

 

Central Park Peacock Fountain and Rose Garden

Central Park Peacock Fountain and Rose Garden

 

Peterbrooke Chocolatier

Our final stop on the Food Tour was at Peterbrooke Chocolatier located at 300 S. Park Avenue.  Peterbrooke is a franchise locally owned and operated by a husband and wife team who were friendly and helpful.  We received a tasting of gourmet Chocolate Covered Popcorn that was simply out-of-this-world yummy (it’s the #1 best seller).  I just love the combination of sweet and salty flavors; so addictive.  Did you know that Peterbrooke’s Chocolate Covered Popcorn was discovered by accident?  (Here’s a CNBC article about the sweet accident.)

If your New Year’s resolution is to eat more chocolate, then Peterbrooke is the place for you!  If not, we all need a gift idea from time to time, and, let’s be honest… chocolate is the one gift that never gets returned! I truly enjoyed browsing their creative chocolate selections.  Like, for example, the Chocolate High Heeled Shoe Collection for the fashion diva with a shoe fetish who can’t stuff one more pair in her closet.  (They’ll even make custom edible labels to put inside the shoe.)  Ingenious.  Or maybe you need a special guy-gift. Not a problem.  How about Chocolate-covered Bacon?

Peterbrooke also has a large selection of gelato.  Feel free to ask for a sample.  The 20+ flavors looked so good, but by now my sweet tooth had been satisfied.  There’s no question, this was a sweet ending to a delightful afternoon in Winter Park.

 

Peterbrooke Chocolatier of Winter Park

Peterbrooke Chocolatier of Winter Park

 

Chocolate High-heeled Shoe

Chocolate High-heeled Shoe

 

20 Gelato Flavors at Peterbrooke Chocolatier

20 Gelato Flavors at Peterbrooke Chocolatier

 

In Conclusion…

The Winter Park Walking Food Tour was a pleasurable, educational, and delicious way to spend an afternoon.  Overall it was great, but not quite excellent.  When compared to other food tours I have done, it was lacking enough “real” food.  By that, I mean I would have liked to see more restaurants participate rather than the olive oil and spice tastings, which were more of a “gift shop” experience.  Don’t get me wrong, I had fun sipping and sampling in some locally loved places, but comparably speaking it just wasn’t 5-star.

I paid a highly discounted rate of $67.99 for 2 people.  Certainly, the Winter Park Food Tour was worth that amount.  At the $100+ full retail price I may have been disappointed.  There was an ample amount of food and drink, and most of us were comfortably full at the end of the tour.  It’s a great option for couples wanting a daytime date, girlfriend get-a-way kind of thing to re-connect, or friends and family that are visiting.  However, authentic foodies may be less-than-impressed.  So, pretty much it comes down to your expectations.  I recommend this tour if you can pay less than retail.  Bon appetite!

Winter Park Food Tour — How to Make a Reservation

Like most things these days, the Winter Park Food Tour can be conveniently booked online.  Simply go to OrlandoFoodTours.com and click “Pick a Tour” on the homepage.  Then click “Buy Tickets Now” under the Winter Park Walking Food Tour section to view a calendar of available dates in any given month.  The Food Tours are generally offered on Saturdays and Sundays at 11:15am.  There is a 12 person maximum for each Tour.  The reservation system will reveal any “Sold Out” dates as well as how many tickets are still available on each date.  The price for Adults is $47.00 plus tax and a small processing fee.

***TIP…  Being the financially responsible person that I am (hubby calls me frugal), I rarely purchase anything online without a coupon code.  I bought tickets through the website “Living Social” which was having a fantastic Cyber Monday sale.  It was almost a 35% discount!  The popular “Groupon” website also offers discounts up to 20% off on the Food Tour.  (Take advantage of the reduced prices — you’ll want to do some shopping at some of the great gift shops on the Tour.)

If you book online like I did, there’s absolutely nothing to print, and no physical tickets are needed.  You’ll receive a digital ticket via email.  Upon arrival, simply show the email confirmation from your cell phone, along with photo ID.  The email also contains information about parking and gives the location where your group will meet.  The entire reservation process could not have been easier!

 

Have you been on the Winter Park Walking Food Tour?  What was your experience?  Or, perhaps you can share the name of your favorite food tour.  Our faithful foodie followers would love to know!  Simply reply in the comment section below.

 

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Epcot Food and Wine Festival 2016 – In Photos


 

Epcot Food And Wine Festival - 2016

Epcot Food And Wine Festival – 2016

 

Welcome to the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival 2016 photo tour!  Here, you’ll get a taste of what’s new, some oldies-but-goodies, what I liked, and what I loved!  And, as we journey on this epicurean trip around the world, i’ll share a few helpful tips for your next visit to Epcot’s most popular annual event.

 

 

Food and Wine Theme - Taste Epcot!

Food and Wine Theme – Taste Epcot!

 

The theme for the 2016 Food & Wine Festival is ‘Taste Epcot.’  The front entrance to Epcot nicely displays the theme, and it’s the perfect back-drop for a group or family photo to begin your day.  With a little patience, Disney employees are more than happy to photograph the moment for you, but be prepared to wait in line during the busiest hours.

 

Dazzling Disney Landscapes

Dazzling Disney Landscapes

 

Although the main attraction of the Food and Wine Festival is, of course, the food — let your stomach growl long enough to slow down and enjoy stunning views of fabulous flora all decked out in their finest fall colors.  Sure, they’re not as spectacular as the springtime Flower and Garden Festival displays, but definitely worth a look.

 

 

Club Cool - Presented By Coca-Cola!

Club Cool – Presented By Coca-Cola!

 

Cola Flavors From Around The World!

Cola Flavors From Around The World!

 

Another worthwhile diversion is a quick stop at Club Cool. If you entered Epcot through the main front gates, you have to pass by it anyway enroute to World Showcase where most of the Festival food kiosks are located.  Inside is a gift shop featuring pretty cool Coca-Cola-branded merchandise, along with a FREE (I know, I know, the words free and Disney are rarely used together) tasting of soft drinks from around the world.  There are 8 different cola flavors found in places like Greece, Thailand, Japan, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Peru, Brazil… and my favorite, Italy.  The Italian cola is called Beverly, and it’s like drinking a non-alcoholic aperitif before dinner to stimulate the appetite.  It’s actually a traditional part of Italian refreshment culture.  Beverly has a very bitter flavor that people either love or hate.  I love it… my hubby, well, not so much!   The beverage machine is self-serve, so feel free to sample as many as you like.  For me, this is a fantastic place to cool down from the Florida heat and wet my whistle at the same time.  Try it, and let me know which is your favorite!

 

Food and Wine Festival Shop

Food and Wine Festival Shop

 

My second stop (right after Club Cool) was the most ingenious idea my husband has ever had.  (After almost 40 years together, that’s saying a lot!)  He recommended that we purchase a pre-paid Disney Gift Card. There are a number of Festival-themed Disney Gift Cards to choose from.  We selected the mini-sized gift card (which is their most popular).  The mini card features the Festival logo, and is attached to a wearable wristlet.  You can choose the dollar amount to put on the card.  We started with $100.  There are no fees involved and it is accepted everywhere, no exceptions.  Some of the other gift cards have limitations regarding usage.  A Disney employee took the time to explain all options and any restrictions.

They’re available at select merchandise locations throughout Epcot, like the one pictured above where I purchased mine.  The beauty of these cards?… well, they make paying a breeze!  The average price for individual food and wine offerings at the kiosks are between $5-$7.  It was always inconvenient for me to charge such  a small amount at every stop, and the added stress of making sure I didn’t lose the card. With my new Disney Gift Card on my wrist, I simply show it, they scan it, and ta-dah… I’m ready to eat!  No more fiddling in my pocket or purse.  Such an easy way to pay!

 

Chicken and Dumplings

Chicken and Dumplings

 

Loaded Mac 'n' Cheese

Loaded Mac ‘n’ Cheese

 

With more than 30 delicious and exotic marketplaces available for the Food and Wine Festival, one must choose wisely, as it’s almost impossible to sample everything.  Our first stop was at Farm Fresh.  We almost passed this one up, as the offerings seemed a bit boring — nothing exotic.  It was more like traditional ‘comfort food.’  But I’m so glad we tried it.  Hubby had the Loaded Mac ‘n’ Cheese which was superb. Made with cheddar cheese, pepper bacon, green onions and peppers, it had a nice little ‘kick’ to it. Nothing boring here!  The flavor combinations were excellent and left you wanting more.

I had the Chicken and Dumplings, made with stewed chicken, mushrooms, and spinach.  Oh my goodness… I never thought I would be raving about such a simple dish.  The sauce was extremely tasty, it was loaded with tender generously-sized chicken chucks, and the dumplings… well, I have never had dumplings so good.  They were huge, and literally melt-in-your-mouth.  I’m not kidding.  I was raised on Pennsylvania Dutch cooking where dumplings are king, but these were the best I have ever had!  I don’t know how they got them so light and moist.  Typically they’re very dense and heavy.  I had to resist the temptation to order another portion!  My only complaint about this stop was that the food temperature on both items was barely warm.

Look at the size of those dumplings…

 

Disney Gets The Prize For Best Dumplings… Ever!

 

 

Taco de Camaron

Taco de Camaron

 

 

Barbacoa Enchilada

Barbacoa Enchilada

 

Next stop for us was Mexico. One of those ‘oldies-but-goodies’ for my husband is the Taco de Camaron. It’s a battered shrimp served over a flour tortilla with crispy purple cabbage and chipotle mayonnaise.  He loves his food hot and spicy… very hot and spicy!  This dish is far from hot and spicy, but flavorful nonetheless with the chipotle.  He would have liked it kicked up a hundred notches on the heat index, but still enjoyed it, as always.

I usually pass on the Mexican offerings being we live in central Florida where Mexican food and restaurants abound.  But I broke tradition and opted for the Barbacoa Enchilada.  Unlike hubby, I don’t do well with spicy food.  I love it, it just doesn’t like me.  Upon ordering, I asked the Disney employee if there was anything spicy in it.  She patiently described the ingredients, and offered me to return it if I didn’t like it.  Wow… that’s the first time I was given a money-back guarantee during the umpteen times we’ve attended the Food and Wine Festival.  Turned out to be very smart customer service — I loved it!  The corn tortilla tasted just like the hand-made ones I had in Guatemala.  The beef barbacoa was excellent, and the mole sauce was surprisingly outstanding.  And yes, I stopped by to thank the young lady on my way to the trash can.  This is one of those ‘repeat’ items i’ll have during my next visit to Epcot in a few weeks.

[***Question:  Have you ever taken the time to thank a Disney employee for going above and beyond what was expected of them?  Please share in the comment section at the end of this article.  Many Disney employees earn little more than minimum wage, work outside in the heat, humidity and tropical downpours, and hear complaints all day long.  Oftentimes we’re quick to complain and slow to compliment those in the hospitality industry.  Make it a point to give ‘kudos’ when appropriate.  We may never know the positive effect in that person’s life!]  

 

SOARIN' Around The World!

SOARIN’ Around The World!

 

By now you’ve heard that one of the most popular Epcot attractions has been totally re-done.  SOARIN’ has become SOARIN’ Around The World.  We were able to get a FastPass for it so we took a brief respite from lunch to try the new version.  It was awesome!  Hubby liked the old version better, but I respectfully disagree.  It remains my favorite Epcot ride.

 

Wine & Dine Studio

Wine & Dine Studio

 

Since the heat index was over 100 degrees this September day, SOARIN’ was the perfect way to cool down and beat the heat for a while.  But after our hang-gliding experience around the world, we were ready to indulge in our next round of tasty treats.  The Wine & Dine Studio is one of the new marketplaces at the Festival this year.  And what a great addition it was!  Of everything I tried, it was here that I had my number one tasting food item — the seared scallop!  I kinda cheated with this choice because I already knew from the pre-Festival tasting event with members of the Press that this was a favorite among the voters.  Because of that, hubby and I both had the same thing, something we rarely do.

 

Seared Scallop

Seared Scallop

 

The seared scallop was served over a truffled celery root puree (something I’m not usually fond of) and brussels sprouts with wild mushrooms.  Oh my goodness… heaven on earth!  This dish is worthy to be served in any 5-star restaurant this side of Mars.  You have to try it.  ‘Nuff said!

 

 

Even if you pass up on the Wine & Dine Studio, stop by long enough to shoot a couple of photos.  It’s a beautiful area as evidenced by the slideshow above.  It’s also one of just a few areas that offer a place to sit your food and beverage down while eating.  They have an ample amount of counter space under the trellis for that.

 

Islands Of The Caribbean

Islands Of The Caribbean

 

Our next stop was the Islands Of The Caribbean, another new entry this year.  This area gets my vote for the most beautiful displays.  Lush landscaping and small vignette-type displays feature islands like Haiti, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, and Jamaica (see slideshow below).  They also have a couple of thatched-roof tiki huts with tables to get you out of the hot sun while you munch on Mojo Pork, Quesito or other Caribbean cuisine tapas.

 

Pescado con Coco

Pescado con Coco

 

Hubby’s tummy was getting full but I was still going strong.  I tried the Pescado con Coco: seared grouper, pigeon peas and rice, with coconut sauce.  The concept was great (i’ll try almost anything with a coconut sauce!) but I probably wouldn’t have it again.  The rice was too salty for my taste buds (the olives, most likely), and it had large chunks of sausage that weren’t mentioned in the ingredients, which I’m not a fan of.  The grouper was great, as was the sauce, but was hoping for a stronger coconut flavor.  Overall… good, but not a repeat item for me.

 

 

One thing I really liked this year at the Food and Wine Festival was the style of the food kiosks.  Each one was a tiny replica of the type of architecture that is indicative of  the country it is representing.  I’ve included a few of them in the photos below…

 

Greece Marketplace At Epcot Food & Wine Festival

Greece Marketplace At Epcot Food & Wine Festival

 

Canada Marketplace At Epcot Food & Wine Festival

Canada Marketplace At Epcot Food & Wine Festival

 

Ireland Marketplace At Epcot Food & Wine Festival

Ireland Marketplace At Epcot Food & Wine Festival

 

Brazil Marketplace At Epcot Food & Wine Festival

Brazil Marketplace At Epcot Food & Wine Festival

 

Our final stop was at Brazil — not because we wanted this culinary adventure to end, but because our bellies were busting at the seams!  We had done our homework and looked over a listing of each food item in advance of our visit.  We had a good idea of what we wanted to sample before we even got there. Since we attend the Food and Wine Festival multiple times each year, we limit our food to 5 or 6 countries during each visit.  With great anticipation we were looking forward to trying the crispy pork belly with black beans and tomato at Brazil.  Once again, hubby and I ordered the same thing.

I have fond memories of the very first time I had crispy pork belly.  It was at Disney, at the Brown Derby restaurant in Hollywood Studios.  Gosh, that had to be about 10+ years ago.  It was so incredible, it became the gold standard by which I measure every crispy pork belly appetizer I try.  None has ever compared to that first experience.  That’s why I was so excited to sample it at Epcot.  Hubby and I both agreed that although it was great, it was not phenomenal as I was expecting.  I thought it was a little too lean.  I mean, come on… if you’re gonna have pork belly, then pork fat should rule!  Despite my criticism, some people we chatted with said it was the best item at the Festival, in their opinion.

 

Crispy Pork Belly

Crispy Pork Belly

 

To end our epicurean tour around the world, we chose to have dessert in Norway, rather than a food kiosk from the Festival.  The Kringla Bakery is a permanent part of the World Showcase at Epcot and we love the berry cream puffs from there.  Plus, it was another opportunity to go inside to escape the blazing hot sun.

 

Berry Cream Puff

Berry Cream Puff

 

The berry cream puff was the perfect ending to a perfect day at Epcot’s International Food and Wine Festival.  Interested in the cost of today’s tasting tour?  Well, for everything i’ve included in this article, plus 2 bottles of water, the price tag was $64.31.  We’ve been attending the F&WF since its inception 21 years ago, and have witnessed steady price increases, but still consider this event one of our Disney favorites. Here’s another tip: as locals, we always go on a weekday, and try to get there early in the day.  As you can see from the photos, most of the kiosks had little or no line!

Stay tuned for our next visit where we’ll be sampling even more delectable dishes.  This year, the event runs from September 14th – November 14th, 62 days of deliciousness!

 

Have you been to Epcot’s Food and Wine Festival?  Maybe you have a question about the event.  Or perhaps you have a tip of your own that you’d like to share with our readers.  Please post your question or comment in the reply box below!

 


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2016 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival Food Photos


 

Frushi from Epcot's Flower and Garden Festival

Frushi from Epcot’s Flower and Garden Festival

 

Epcot Flower & Garden Features International Flavors from Around the World

Woo hoo… this year Disney has increased the length of the super-popular Epcot Flower and Garden Festival from 75 days to a full 90 days.  That’s perfect for me, as I always visit multiple times throughout the dazzling display.  Not only am I captivated by the horticultural genius of the Disney topiaries and spectacular bursts of color as far as the eye can see, but it takes several visits just to sample the fantastic food made especially for the festival — food offerings that are not available any other time of year.

During the Epcot Flower & Garden Festival, Outdoor Kitchens are erected around World Showcase Lagoon. These temporary kitchens (pictured below) are small kiosks which look a lot like the Marketplace Booths at Epcot’s Annual Food and Wine Festival (one of my favorite events of the year!).  They feature delectable little morsels served on small plates that would be similar to an appetizer portion or tapas-sized menu item.  Keeping in line with the theme of World Showcase, each Outdoor Kitchen features food from a different country.  It’s a great and inexpensive way to try international flavors and cuisines from cultures you may never have the opportunity to visit.

 

Epcot’s Outdoor Kitchens Around World Showcase Lagoon

 

Primavera Kitchen - Representing Italy at Epcot's Flower & Garden Festival

Primavera Kitchen – Italy

 

Jardin de Fiestas - Representing Mexico at Epcot's Flower & Garden Festival

Jardin de Fiestas – Mexico

 

Bauernmarkt: Farmer's Market - Representing Germany at Epcot

Bauernmarkt: Farmer’s Market – Germany

 

Hanami - Representing Japan at Epcot's Spring Flower Festival

Hanami – Japan

 

The Smokehouse: Barbecue and Brews Representing America at Epcot

The Smokehouse: Barbecue and Brews

 

Lotus House - Representing China at Epcot

Lotus House – China

 

Pineapple Promenade at Disney's Epcot Theme Park

Pineapple Promenade

 

This year the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival included 13 Outdoor Kitchens, with most menu items priced between $3 and $8.  Hubby and I have gone twice thus far, and spent an average of $50 each visit.  Not bad for a date night out, including dinner!  Of course, entrance into Epcot’s Flower and Garden Festival requires a Disney Theme Park Ticket.  (We use our Florida Resident Weekday Select Pass, which is an incredible value for us.)

TIP: For those of you participating in the Disney Dining Plan, many of the food items from the Outdoor Kitchens are available as a snack credit, a welcomed addition to the typical snack choices at Epcot!

Here’s What We’ve Sampled So Far at the 2016 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival…

 

 

Jamaican-braised Beef with Pigeon Pea Rice and Micro Cilantro

Jamaican-braised Beef with Pigeon Pea Rice and Micro Cilantro

 

Tacos de Camaron Tempura Shrimp with Hibiscus Flower, Caramelized Onions, and Habanero Sauce

Tacos de Camaron
Tempura Shrimp with Hibiscus Flower, Caramelized Onions, and Habanero Sauce

 

Vegetable Spring Roll with Orange Sauce

Vegetable Spring Roll with Orange Sauce

 

Gaoli Beef Bun at Epcot's Flower and Garden Festival

Gaoli Beef Bun

 

Beef Brisket Burnt Ends Hash with White Cheddar Fondue and Pickled Jalapeños

Beef Brisket Burnt Ends Hash with White Cheddar Fondue and Pickled Jalapeños

 

Pulled Pig Slider with Crispy Onions and Coleslaw

Pulled Pig Slider with Crispy Onions and Coleslaw

 

Frushi Fresh Pineapple, Strawberry and Melon Rolled with Raspberry Coconut Rice, Sprinkled with Toasted Coconut and Whipped Cream on the Side

Frushi
Fresh Pineapple, Strawberry and Melon Rolled with Raspberry Coconut Rice, Sprinkled with Toasted Coconut and Whipped Cream on the Side

 

Tarte a l'Onion Alsacienne Alsatian Onion Tart with Sauteed Onions, Fresh Thyme and Rosemary on a Flaky Puff Pastry Crust

Tarte a l’Onion Alsacienne
Alsatian Onion Tart with Sauteed Onions, Fresh Thyme and Rosemary on a Flaky Puff Pastry Crust

 

House-made Potato and Cheddar Cheese Biscuit with Smoked Salmon Tartare

House-made Potato and Cheddar Cheese Biscuit with Smoked Salmon Tartare

 

Pear Cider-brined Shredded Corned Beef with Braised Cabbage and Pears and Branston Dressing

Pear Cider-brined Shredded Corned Beef with Braised Cabbage and Pears and Branston Dressing

 

Florida Larder Board Orlando-made Ricotta Cheese, Cahaba Farms Micro Onions, Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Balsamic, Country Pate and House-made Pickles

Florida Larder Board
Orlando-made Ricotta Cheese, Cahaba Farms Micro Onions, Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Balsamic, Country Pate and House-made Pickles

 

Currywurst with Paprika Chips Roasted Bratwurst with Curry Ketchup and Paprika-spiced Chips

Currywurst with Paprika Chips
Roasted Bratwurst with Curry Ketchup and Paprika-spiced Chips

 

Chicken Fricassee with Green Asparagus and Peas Served with Uncle Ben's Rice Pilaf

Chicken Fricassee with Green Asparagus and Peas Served with Uncle Ben’s Rice Pilaf

 

Pineapple Soft-Serve at Disney's Epcot

Pineapple Soft-Serve: A Refreshing Ending

 

The Garden Passport: A Great Epcot Flower & Garden Festival Souvenir

A fun thing to do (and a great souvenir as well) is to pick up a free little booklet called “Garden Passport” available at each Outdoor Kitchen location.  As you embark on your mouthwatering Disney-foodie mission around World Showcase Lagoon, you can have your Passport “stamped” every time you purchase food or drink from the corresponding country.  It’s a wonderful reminder of all the delicious goodies that you tried. Since hubby and I are local and attend the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival often, we do not usually bother with the stamps, however, we rely heavily on the Garden Passport to pre-plan our dining choices along the way.  The Garden Passport includes a complete listing of all the Outdoor Kitchens along with their respective food and drink offerings.  Each kiosk typically has about 3 food items and 3-8 unique beverage choices.

When you plan your visit to the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival, be sure to factor in time to try at least a few of the Outdoor Kitchens.  It’s kinda like gourmet globe-trotting.  Trust me, you will not regret it!

TIP: Standing in line is not usually my favorite thing to do, but in regard to the Outdoor Kitchens, it’s not a bad thing.  Whenever there is no line, the food is almost always dried out from sitting in the warmers or under the heat lamps.  For example: during our 2nd visit to the Epcot Flower & Garden Festival we repeated 2 of the same food items that we especially liked during our 1st visit.  The Shrimp Tacos from Mexico and the Onion Tarte from France were both somewhat disappointing the 2nd time around because they had been warmed.  Do yourself a favor and choose an Outdoor Kitchen where people are waiting in line.  The food will likely be freshly prepared and worth the wait!

 

The Garden Passport from Epcot's Flower & Garden Festival

The Garden Passport

 

Hey Disney Foodies…

The dates for Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival 2018 have been announced!

February 28 – May 28, 2018

Have you been to Epcot’s Flower and Garden Festival?  If so, what was the highlight of your trip?  Please share your experience or any helpful tips for our readers in the “comment” box below!


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