Disclosure: I was invited to Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen to try these items, however all opinions are 100% my own. I am genuinely a GIGANTIC fan of Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen, firmly believe their chicken tenders are heaven sent, and will fight you for the last onion ring…so with that being said let’s get going!
A Visit to Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen
It was probably a year ago that I discovered Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen (when I say ‘discovered’ I really mean I was finally braved the line out the door), and since then it has become my go-to restaurant when I am ‘On the Go’ since their menu has a wide variety of items.
If you haven’t been to a Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen, what makes them so special is that they really live up to their name! Their menu features made-from-scratch dishes like house smoked baby back ribs, hand-battered country fried chicken, scratch burgers, croissants, and their AMAZING homemade onion rings that are stacked to the ceiling.
While the menu features some fan favorites like their chicken tenders (they serve over 30 million a year), Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen is always adding new items to their lineup.
Let’s take a peek at some of my favorite and new favorite menu items!
Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen Texas Sweet Tea and Painkiller (there is a limit of 2 per person…for a VERY good reason)Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen Homemade Onion Rings- These are the most amazing onion rings you’ll ever have…promise!Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen Trio Sampler – The trio sampler for us is perfect, because everyone gets their favorite appetizer. Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen New Orleans Pasta – The New Orleans Pasta has a great snap of spicy that is perfect for warming you up on a chilly night.Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen Tender Parmesan – The parmesan crust on the chicken tenders is FANTASTIC!Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen Bourbon Glazed Pork Chop – Let me be honest…Dave didn’t even let me have bite, because he claimed this as ‘his’. Not cool dude. Not. Cool. Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen Blackened Salmon and Shrimp – The Blackened Salmon and Shrimp is a great light dinner or lunch. Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen Monte Cristo – The Monte Cristo is Zoe’s go-to menu item, and you can actually order a lunch combo with half of this sandwich with a ton of options. It’s great!Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen Seasonal Crisp A La Mode – So now it’s my turn…I didn’t share. I’m not ashamed. It was too good to share. Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen Painkiller Mini Cake – The Painkiller Mini Cake was soooo good, and a fantastic light dessert. Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen Chocolate Raspberry Mini Cake – Don’t let the ‘Mini’ fool you, because the Chocolate Raspberry Mini Cake is big on flavor!
But what makes Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen even better is their prices! They have twenty entrees that are under $10, and let me tell you NONE of them are small! You definitely won’t leave hungry!
There are over 150 Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen locations across the country, and you can find your nearest one here.
Holiday Gift Card Offer for Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen:
This holiday season, Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen is offering a free Sandwich or Scratch Burger served with one side – such as Cheddar’s hand-battered Monte Cristo sandwich or hand-smashed Smokehouse Burger – when guests purchase $30 or more in gift cards online or in-restaurant from December 17 through 24.
If you can’t tell I’m a Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen fangirl, and you will be too when you give it a try!
St. Patrick’s Day revelers will definitely want to enjoy three non-stop days of live music, Irish dance, first-rate food, and fun during the Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival 2018 at Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant in Disney Springs March 16-18.
Here’s the Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival complete lineup:
Young Dubliners – One of Celtic rock’s hardest working bands, the You Dubliners play hundreds of shows to thousands of fans across the United States and Europe every year. Young Dubliners are known for their hearty rock and Irish-infused live performances.
Elevation (U2) — Back by popular demand, this stellar U2 tribute act will play two special nighttime shows March 16 and 17. They appeared at Raglan Road’s Great Irish Hooley last September during U2’s world tour celebrating 30 years of the groundbreaking Joshua Tree album.
The Maguires – Called “brilliant” by IrishCentral news, The Maguires traditional Irish family band comprises Emma, 17, on fiddle, flute and whistle; Aoife, 15, on concertina and uilleann pipes; Sean, 12, on bodhrán; and their dad, Philip, on guitar. Trad favorites and modern tunes combine with syncopated, infectious rhythms sure to wow Mighty Festival crowds.
Briste — This inspiring all-female trio includes Emma Robinson (flute, whistle), Joanna Boyle (banjo, vocals) and Alison Crossey (bodhran, guitar). They grew up listening to and playing traditional Irish music, winning numerous awards at County, Ulster and All Ireland competitions, quickly gaining themselves a fine reputation in traditional music circles. Blending together their rich musical backgrounds, Briste creates a fresh and exciting mix of country, folk and Irish traditional music.
The Byrne Brothers — An exceptionally talented traditional Irish music family from Donegal. They are Luca, 13 (button accordion); Finn, 11 (banjo, mandolin and whistle); Dempsey, 8, (whistle and bodhran); and father,Tommy (guitar, Uilleann pipes, fiddle, whistles, bagpipes and bodhran). Their show combines exciting traditional Irish tunes with modern dance beats, and they love to interact with every audience.
The Raglan Roots Coalition – This edgy house band is known for its soul-rockin’ Celtic bluegrass with hip-swingin’, knee-shakin’ funky roots beats.
Reel Republic – Hailing from the southwest corner of Ireland, Aisling Egan-Sage (fiddle); Liam O’Keefe (box, vocals); and Colin Foley (guitar, vocals) are Reel Republic 2.0, three seriously talented musicians always pushing to make the next gig better than the last.
Out the Gap – Niall McIlroy (guitar, ukulele bass, whistles and flute); Deirdre Ni Mheachair (fiddle); and Aidan Byrne (guitar, vox, keys and percussion) make up the pub’s newest house band performing a sweet combination of innate musicianship, beautiful tune playing and fairly outrageous virtuosity.
The Raglan Road Irish Dancers – Plucked from the cast and stages of the world’s greatest Irish dance shows, the Raglan Road Irish Dancers perform throughout the Mighty Festival. You can even learn some traditional Irish dance steps – no experience necessary!
Guests can enjoy a mighty selection of beers, spirits and craft cocktails to pair with exceptional pub grub and more elegant Irish fare while musicians and dancers perform on multiple stages, indoors and out, from noon-1:30 a.m. March 16 and 10 a.m. until 1:30 a.m. March 17 and 18. Mighty Festival guests can accent their Irish holiday attire with complimentary face painting available for up to nine or 10 hours each festival day. On March 17, St. Patrick’s Day, guests will be seated on a first-come, first-served basis with a cover charge of $10 for each guest age 18 and older. Reservations can be booked for other festival days by calling 407/938-0300.
The entertainment schedule will be posted at raglanroad.com.
Guests can order from Raglan Road’s brunch, lunch, dinner and bar menus that include new dishes like the Guinness-braised pulled pork, apple chutney with pork crackling on a homemade bun, and the handmade gnocchi with seared Georges Bank scallops and crispy pork belly. Traditionalists can dig into the pub’s loin of bacon and cabbage, the authentic Irish dish of St. Patrick’s Day, plus other pub classics. Throughout the event, the restaurant’s Cooke’s of Dublin counter-service eatery will offer Irish favorites, as well, including fish and chips.
If you are looking for a luxurious way to spend Valentine’s Day, the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort has special dining and spa offers for couples.
At , and at Capa, a four-course prix-fixe. menu is offered for USD 155 per person. Plus, The Spa at Four Seasons is offering special treatments for Valentine’s Day, with complimentary prosecco and chocolates for spa guests.
Ravello
Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World
At Ravello, authentic Italian cuisine is prepared by Executive Chef Fabrizio Schenardi, originally from Torino, Italy. Enjoy the warm ambiance of Ravello including the lively open kitchen.
And to celebrate Valentine’s Day, Ravello is offering a special four-course prix-fixe menu is offered for $75 per person (plus tax and gratuity) that includes:
First Course
• Choice of: Poricini budino parmesan and local artisanal greens salad – mushroom flan, crispy parmesan, local greens, truffle vinaigrette
• Or: Tuna carpaccio caper berries with arugula and pickled vegetables – black pepper seared tuna, blistered caper berries, micro arugula, pickled vegetables
Second Course
• Housemade spaghetti and polpettine to share – “Lady and the Tramp” single piece housemade spaghetti, housemade meatball to share
Entree
• Choice of: Crispy halibut brandade with braised spinach and lobster – pan seared halibut, crisp potato brandade, spinach, lobster sauce
• Or: Duck with wilted greens and sweet potato sun choke – duck breast, sautéed greens, sweet potato and sun choke puree, cherry jus
Dessert
Capa, the Resort’s rooftop level Spanish-inspired steakhouse, is known for its fresh seafood and prime meats. The stunning ambiance in hues of crimson, black and grey features an open kitchen and wood-burning grill, plus an expansive terrace where couples can enjoy views of the nightly Magic Kingdom Park fireworks. Capa was named to Wine Enthusiast magazine’s list of 100 Best Wine Restaurants in the US.
On Valentine’s Day, Capa is also offering a special four-course prix-fixe menu is offered for $155 per person (plus tax and gratuity) that includes:
To make reservations for either of these special prix-fixe dinners at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando, call (407) 313-6161. Have a Couples Day at The Spa
Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World
Celebrate Valentine’s Day at The Spa at Four Seasons. On Wednesday, February 14, 2018, all who receive a treatment between 8:00 am and 9:00 pm will receive a complimentary glass of prosecco and special valentine truffles from local chocolatier Norman Love Confections.
Sweethearts can treat their honey to an indulgent Healing Honey Treatment, featuring a massage with local Winter Garden Honey Farm honey. Those experiencing the Healing Honey Treatment on Valentine’s Day will receive a small bottle of the signature honey.
In addition, couples who experience a 50-minute Couples Massage on February 14 will receive a complimentary Luscious Lips enhancement to ensure the sweetest, smoothest kiss. The couple will also receive a complimentary lip gloss from the signature line Kaplan MD.
For the ultimate couples spa day, consider a Daycation Duo. Recharge, renew, relax and refresh together, the perfect recipe for romance.
The Couple’s Daycation is $570 and includes a $35 per person lunch credit at PB&G, plus fitness classes for the day, two 80 minute Spa treatments, and use of the Spa’s beautifully appointed locker rooms equipped with steam room, experience showers, whirlpools and full vanity area.
To reserve a Spa appointment this Valentine’s Day, contact The Spa at Four Seasons Resort Orlando by calling (407) 313-6160.
The Universal Orlando Resort announced that VooDoo Doughnut will arrive east of the Mississippi when they open at Universal CityWalk, Universal Orlando Resort’s entertainment and dining complex, this spring.
httpv://youtu.be/MJQKgfelRp8
VooDoo Doughnut was created by Kenneth “Cat Daddy” Pogson and Tres Shannon in Portland, Oregon, in 2003. The pair had enjoyed experimenting with unique flavors to create eccentric pastries and they turned their passion into the phenomenon that is Voodoo Doughnut. As they say, the rest is history.
The Doughnut stop is loved for its sinfully delicious, delightfully weird lineup of fried creations. Their selection of doughnuts will feature signature originals and one-of-a-kind delectables such as the Dirt Doughnut, the Bacon Maple Bar, Grape Ape and, of course, Voodoo Doll doughnuts.
The Universal CityWalk shop will feature the same eclectic pink theming and irreverent names that can be found in current Voodoo Doughnut locations, and will be located next to NBC Sports Grill & Brew, just steps away from the iconic Universal Globe and Universal Studios Florida entrance.
Good Things Come in Pink Boxes, and I cannot wait to give them a try! 2018 just got sweeter!
Starting January 13th, the Loews Sapphire Falls Resort will host a new character breakfast in the outdoor Cayman Court covered pavilion where you can dine with friends from Despicable Me that include Gru, his daughters, and the Minions every Saturday with seatings at 9:00 am and 10:30 am.
Universal Orlando
Some of the dishes you will find on the all-you-care-to-eat buffet that include a fruit, cereals, baked goods, scrambled eggs, buttermilk pancakes, country pork sausage, Applewood-smoked bacon, and Yukon Gold breakfast potatoes. Your choice of a regular coffee, decaffeinated coffee, a variety of juices, soft drinks, and organic and herbal teas is also included included with the price of the breakfast.
Also included with the Despicable Me Character Breakfast is one digital photo taken during the breakfast (via My Universal Photos™).
Despicable Me Character Breakfast tickets must be purchased at least 24 hours in advance by calling (407) 503-DINE (3463) or online, and cost $34.99 plus tax and gratuity for adults (ages 10 and up) and $20.99 plus tax and gratuity for children (ages 3-9).
Here are few things to keep in mind before you book your Despicable Me Character Breakfast experience:
You’ll need to arrive 15 minutes prior to the reservation time.
Tickets are not refundable and not exchangeable.
Prices, dates, times, menu, and characters are subject to change without notice.
If you have special dietary needs, you will want to contact the Universal Orlando Resort to answer any questions you may have about the menu. They have a special website that can help you find easy answers or contact information for further help.
To redeem your photo, the digital photo ticket must be exchanged for a My Universal Photos card at the Despicable Me Character Breakfast. Access to digital viewing is provided by Colorvision International, Inc. and is subject to additional terms and conditions. Data rates and other charges may apply. Please check with your carrier. Guest can visit myuniversalphotos.com to view and gain digital access to photo. Association of photos with My Universal Photos account is required. Additional restrictions may apply.
DISCLOSURE: I was an invited guest of guest of The Patina Restaurant Group and Walt Disney World to tour the four new dining venues opening at Disney Springs, but all opinions (and exclamation points) are my own.
It is always an exciting experience to step behind a construction wall at Walt Disney World, and I had the chance to peek in at the four new dining locations opening soon at Disney Springs.
Let’s take a step back to October 2017 when Nick Valenti, CEO of Patina Restaurant Group, shared a glimpse at how each location will tie into the Disney Springs storyline of a restored Florida Waterfront town.
“…we will be opening a trattoria named Maria & Enzo’s, as well as Enzo’s Hideaway, a separate restaurant in what were said to be rum-running tunnels, which is destined to become a local favorite,” said Valenti. “They are inspired by the cuisines of Sicily and Rome, the Italian family, and the best of Italian modern cooking.”
What is really great about this connecting group of restaurants is that each location will have its own distinct menu as well as price point. This is sure to become a ‘one-stop’ dining destination at Disney Springs!
PRG
Pizza Ponte, now in soft openings, is a fast-casual concept and the perfect place for a quick bite serving pastries, pizza, Italian sandwiches, and espresso. Pastry specialties include Bomboloni (Italian doughnuts) Sfoglia di Riso (pastry with rice cream) and Tiramisu. Savory items include signature Triangolo (stuffed pizza bread) sandwiches, Porchetta (roast pork) and Pizza al Taglio, Sicilian-style pizza by the slice. There is dining available inside of this location, but it is also a great place to pop in to take your food to enjoy outdoors.
PRG
Maria & Enzo’s is an Italian trattoria set in the town’s storied abandoned airline terminal from the 1930s, now transformed into a restaurant. The dining room is open and airy, featuring 50-foot ceilings with views of Lake Buena Vista. The restaurant interiors showcase artifacts that reference air travel of the time, with maps and historic flight paths. The menu is inspired by Sicily, with a range of family-friendly dishes – Arancini di Carne (rice balls stuffed with meat), Melanzane Parmigiana (eggplant Parmesan) – and handmade pastas – Busiate con Granchio (spiral pasta with crab), ‘Ncasciata al Forno (Sicilian baked pasta) – served tableside. Other highlights include fresh fish, richly flavored steaks and chops. Guests will also be treated to stunning views of Lake Buena Vista under a fantastic mural as they dine.
PRG
Then under Maria & Enzo’s, in the actual tunnels under Disney Springs, is Enzo’s Hideaway which is a speakeasy inspired by Roman aperitivo bars, located in the storied rum-runner tunnels that adjoin Maria & Enzo’s. Inspired by Florida’s true history of rum running, Enzo’s Hideaway will pour Prohibition-era cocktails at its Tunnel Bar and serve a casual menu of hearty Roman dishes, such as the city’s legendary Bucatini alla Carbonara (hollow spaghetti with creamy egg and pancetta sauce) and Tonnarelli Cacio e Pepe (square-cut spaghetti with pecorino and black pepper). I could spend all day taking in every detail of the graffiti wall!
PRG
The shining gem of this group of dining locations can be found either with its main entrance or a secret tunnel passageway from Enzo’s Hideaway, which is The Edison, which will be opening with a sold out New Year’s Eve Bash. The Edison is a lavish “Industrial Gothic” –style restaurant, bar and nighttime destination, The Edison is famous for exceptionally good classic American food, craft cocktails and live entertainment including cabaret and music. With multiple levels and a performance space, The Edison will be open for lunch and dinner. The menu is executed by Chef PJ Finneran, and consists of contemporary American fare such as Pork Belly Pops with a chile-brown sugar glaze, Crispy Fried Chicken with cast iron buttermilk biscuits and its signature The Edison Burger, a juicy combination of house-ground sirloin, shortrib and brisket, topped with Cabot cloth-bound cheddar, onion rings, smoked bacon, house pickles, lettuce, tomato, special sauce and served with hand-cut fries. The Edison’s beverage program places a huge focus on artfully crafted cocktails, interesting beer and wines and house-made punches, made to serve from two to 10 guests. The main room features a dance floor and stage, where each night The Edison will feature an eclectic lineup of live entertainment including musicians, aerialists and dancers.
Reservations are currently not available for these three dining locations at Disney Springs, but we expect them to be available soon.
While the Thanksgiving holiday is all about spending time at home, there is a certain freedom that comes with taking the holiday ‘off’ from the kitchen and starting a new tradition with your family & friends.
One way to you can do this is by joining The Alfond Inn at Rollins, in Winter Park, at their table for their popular Thanksgiving Buffet on Thursday, November 23rd, 2017.
Depending on your family’s preference, you can choose from two seatings at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.
The cost to attend The Alfond Inn’s Chef Inspired Thanksgiving Buffet is $69 adults, $29 children ages 5 – 12, and children ages 4 and under are free. And you will also enjoy complimentary valet parking during your dining experience.
Featured items on The Alfond Inn Thanksgiving buffet are:
Beginnings
Traditional Wedge Salad
Garden Greens with Seasonal Toppings
Baby Spinach, Eggs, Bacon, Mushrooms, Red Onions, Cherry Tomatoes
Fresh Fruit Display
International Cheese Display
Pumpkin-Cranberry Quinoa Salad
Garden Beets and Roquefort
Assorted Muffins and Freshly Baked Breads, Flavored Butters and Oil
Cream of Wild Mushroom Soup, Porcini Croutons
Side Notes
Classic Stuffing
Whipped Potatoes and Gravy
Candied Sweet Potatoes
Truffle Fingerling Potatoes, Roasted Garlic Aioli
Green Bean Casserole, Crispy Onions
Roasted Brussel Sprouts
Mains
Whole Carved Turkey, Cranberry Relish and Giblet Gravy
Carved Ham, Rum-Raisin Glaze
Braised Wagyu Beef Short Ribs
Southern Shrimp and Grits
Faroe Island Salmon, Sage Brown Butter
Sweets
Classic Pumpkin Pie
Southern Pecan Pie
Apple Cobbler
Vanilla Ice Cream
Chocolate Truffles
You will absolutely want to make reservations in advance online at www.eventbrite.com. And you can find even more details about the Thanksgiving Buffet by visiting www.TheAlfondInn.com
If you are a serious foodie, you won’t want to miss the chance to attend the James Beard Award Celebrity Chef Dinner on Saturday, December 9, 2017, at 6:30 pm hosted by the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort.
Photo: Four Seasons Orlando Resort at Walt Disney World
Inside of the Resort’s acclaimed Ravello restaurant, Executive Chef Fabrizio Schenardi and Executive Pastry Chef Rabii Saber will host the dinner to be joined by:
Paula DaSilva, chef de cuisine at Burlock Coast at The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale, and of Hell’s Kitchen fame. DaSilva was a Best Chefs in America semi-finalist in the 2012 James Beard Awards.
Kathleen Blake, chef/owner from The Rusty Spoon in Orlando. Blake is a 2013 and 2015 James Beard Award Nominee in the Best Chef of the South, a 2013 Best Chefs in America – Southern Region, and was nominated for both Golden Whisk and Community Service Awards by Women Chefs & Restauranteurs.
Dean Max, chef/owner of DJM Restaurants, a collection of seven restaurants in the US and Caribbean. Max was a semi-finalist for the Best Chefs in America in the 2011, 2010 and 2009 James Beard Awards.
James Boyce, chef/owner of Cotton Row in Huntsville, Alabama. Boyce has a 2002 James Beard Award nomination for “Best Chefs of the Southwest” and is a two-time Mobil Five Star Award recipient.
The six-course James Beard Award Celebrity Chef Dinner dinner menu includes:
Course 1, presented by Chef Fabrizio Schenardi
Appetisers: crudo and oyster station, house-curend lonza and capicolla, Italian and Spanish cheeses, pickled vegetables
Passed butternut squash tarts with sage, speck, jalapenos and caciocavallo cheese
Ficattole with spinach, artichokes, lamb meatballs and mint garlic oil
Course 2, presented by Chef Dean Max:
Charred octopus with ‘nduja, clam and pepper broth
Course 3, presented by Chef Kathleen Blake:
Chestnut cavatelli with roasted beets, bitter greens and turtle creek goat cheese
Course 4, presented by Chef Paula DaSilva:
Roasted open blue cobia, crispy yucca, moqueca-style stew
Course 5, presented by Chef James Boyce:
Cider braised Snake River Farms wagyu beef short ribs, white truffle pollard grits, black trumpet mushrooms and sauce bordelaise
Course 6, presented by Chef Rabii Saber:
Nougat glace, with chestnut, fruits of the forest, Valrhona Bahibe 46 percent milk chocolate
Photo: James Beard Foundation
This phenomenal dinner experience, including with wine pairings, is available for $235 per person (includes tax and gratuity). Tickets must be purchased in advance using this link.
Krispy Kreme Doughnuts is bringing back its popular fall treat, the Pumpkin Spice Original Glazed doughnut, for a limited time in October, answering customers’ calls for more opportunities to enjoy this delicious fall indulgence.
On Friday, October 13 and 20, the Pumpkin Spice Original Glazed doughnut will be available only after 6 p.m. for “Friday Night Spice.”
On Thursday, October 26, customers can enjoy the Pumpkin Spice Original Glazed doughnut all day in celebration of National Pumpkin Day at participating Krispy Kreme shops across Central Florida:
Krispy Kreme Daytona Beach – Open 24 Hours
980 W International Speedway Blvd., Daytona Beach, FL 32114
Krispy Kreme Winter Park – Drive thru Open 24 Hours
“Guests were so enthusiastic about the Pumpkin Spice Original Glazed doughnut when we first brought it back for one day last month. But their enthusiasm on social media and at our shops has only intensified since then, so we’re pleased to bring it back – again,” said Jenny Bellanca, vice president of operations for Florida Family Foods LLC, an authorized franchisee of Krispy Kreme Doughnut Corporation.
The Pumpkin Spice Original Glazed doughnut is the same Original Glazed doughnut that Krispy Kreme customers know and love, but with a hint of cinnamon and pumpkin spice flavor, transforming the classic into the perfect fall treat.
Recently recognized by Zagat this year as an excellent eatery, Sharks Underwater Grill, the fine dining restaurant at SeaWorld Orlando, is the only establishment in a theme park participating in Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining Month sponsored by American Express for the first time.
Each fall, Visit Orlando teams up with over 100 local restaurants to offer incredible three-course-dinners for an amazing value: $35 per person. During Magical Dining Month, guests can make a reservation at Sharks Underwater Grill and select an appetizer, dinner, and dessert at this limited-time rate. Decadent lobster bisque, creamy seafood pasta, savory filet mignon and dreamy Key Lime pie are just a few items from the special edition menu for diners can choose from.
SeaWorld Orlando
In addition to sustainable seafood and local Florida beef, the highlight of the restaurant is an enormous window into Shark Encounter, SeaWorld’s massive shark habitat. Guests are immersed in the world of the apex predators as they enjoy world-class entrees specially prepared by SeaWorld’s skilled chefs.
SeaWorld Orlando
Magical Dining Month is the only time of the year when park admission is not required to dine at Sharks Underwater Grill. Upon arrival at SeaWorld, guests with a Magical Dining Reservation will meet with a SeaWorld ambassador at the Magical Dining check-in location near the park entrance to be escorted to the restaurant. Following dinner, guests have the opportunity to remain at SeaWorld until the park closes for the evening.
SeaWorld Orlando
To participate in Magical Dining Month at Sharks Underwater Grill at SeaWorld Orlando, guests must call the restaurant directly at (407) 363-2591 to make their reservation for dinner served starting at 3:00p.m. Reservations are required, as space is limited. This special offer is only valid during Magical Dining Month from now until October 1.
Tin Roof Orlando Announces Oktoberfest Celebration
Sunday, October 1 event to feature live music, food, and beer!
You don’t need lederhosen to join this celebration. Tin Roof Orlando puts its own spin on Oktoberfest with a FREE event at I-Drive 360.
“It’s the first time we’re hosting this event,” says William Hodges, Tin Roof’s regional manager. “We want to provide locals and tourists an incredible opportunity to enjoy a fall afternoon under the Orlando Eye with music, food and drinks.”
There is no cover charge. You only pay for what you want to eat or drink; however, you must be 21 to purchase alcohol. The action starts at noonon Sunday, October 1. Parking is always free inside the I-Drive 360 parking garage.
“We’re going to have things inside and outside on the plaza at I-Drive 360,” says Hodges. “We hope to get locals excited and coming back to the area with events like this.”
Taking the stage for live performances will be:
Beemo, Acoustic/Alternative
Audio Exchange, 70’s to current Top 40, Rock, R&B and Country
Alpine Express, authentic German music
Oktoberfest is rooted in German history. It began as a wedding celebration, which has now become a popular way to highlight German food, music and of course BEER!
About Tin Roof Orlando
Headquartered in Nashville, the first Tin Roof opened in 2002 near Nashville’s famous Music Row. It quickly became a favorite for both performers and music fans. The parent company, Tin Roof Acquisitions, expanded the concept to other cities. Orlando is one of the company’s locations. Tin Roof is located at 8371 International Drive (I-Drive 360). For more information, please visit www.tinroofbars.com/Home/Orlando.
DISCLOSURE: I just wanted to let everyone know that this post is in no way sponsored by Visit Orlando. I just really enjoy Magical Dining Month. I am just really excited to share that Walt Disney World Resort Hotel Restaurants are participating this year.
For the first time select Walt Disney World Resort Hotel Restaurants are participating in Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining Month, and I couldn’t be more excited to share my experience!
If you aren’t familiar with it, Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining Month, happening from now until October 1st, gives locals and visitors to Orlando the opportunity to dine at over 100 restaurants around the City Beautiful with a prix fixe menu that only costs $35. The best part of the deal is that one dollar from of each meal goes locally to support Freedom Ride and BASE Camp Children’s Cancer Foundation.
This year there are six participating Walt Disney World Resort hotel restaurants, and they include: (The links actually show the prix fixe menu offered at each location)
I had the opportunity to dine at The Turf Club Bar and Grill at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort with my family & friends, and we had a fantastic meal!
We tried to order a few things so we could try as many dishes as possible, and the portion sizes are no smaller than they normally are so it was really easy to share.
Let’s look at what we ordered!
Appetizers
The Turf Club Grilled Romaine Salad
lightly grilled hearts of romaine, roasted tomatoes, balsamic vinegar glaze, Caesar dressing, and croutons
Classical French Onion Soup
beef broth, julienne onions, Melted Swiss, and Gruyère cheeses with croutons
Entrees
Pan Seared Corvina
lemon risotto and garlic-basil cream reduction topped with a fresh tomato relish
Grilled New York Strip Steak
hand-cut rosemary Parmesan fries and béarnaise sauce
Desserts
Chocolate-Espresso Torte
with raspberry sauce and vanilla-port wine ice cream
Madagascar Vanilla Bean Crème Brulee
fresh fruit and butter breton cri that is gluten free
Know Before You Go To Walt Disney World Resort Restaurant Magical Dining Month:
You still need to make an Advanced Dining Reservation using the Walt Disney World website, calling 407-WDW-DINE, or by using the My Disney Experience App. When making your reservation, you will not need to note that you will be ordering from the Magical Dining Month prix fixe menu.
If you have allergies or dietary restrictions know that no substitutions can be made to the menu, so talk with your server to make sure that the menu fits with your needs.
Applicable sales tax, gratuities, and beverages are not included in the Magical Dining Month prix fixe menu cost.
An 18% service charge is added for parties of six (6) or more.
The prix fixe menu is not available to those utilizing any Disney Dining Plan.
No discounts can be applied to the Magical Dining Month menu, and while there are great discounts available for Annual Passholders and Tables in Wonderland card holders they cannot be applied to your check unless they are additions to the prix fixe menu and are charged to a separate check which takes extra time to complete which is extremely time consuming.
Partake in sweet celebration of National Chocolate Day this September 13, 2017 at a one-of-a-kind Dessert Party at Capa restaurant at Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort. Executive Pastry Chef Rabii Saber has prepared a delicious assortment of desserts, and will showcase his award-winning “Curtain Rise” chocolate cake. In addition, the Resort will welcome Master Sommelier George Miliotes for this special event, who will present dessert wines and specialty drinks to accompany the sweet smorgasbord.
Chef Saber – Four Seasons Resort Orlando Walt Disney World
Saber is truly a dessert genius, and due to his talents, he was invited to participate in the Coupe du Monde de la Patisserie – often referred to as a “Pastry Olympics” – in Lyon, France in January 2017, where Team USA took home 4th place overall. One dessert, a stunning chocolate cake called the “Curtain Rise”took home the highest honour in the chocolate category. The special cake features several layers: a thin, crispy layer of chocolate with pieces of caramelised hazelnut; two layers of chocolate sponge cake; a delicate layer of Caraibe chocolate cremeux; and a layer of coffee bean crème brulee. The entire cake is wrapped with a thin chocolate glaze.
“I consider chocolate art one of my strengths, and I am pleased that the cake won for this portion of the event,” sayes Saber. “I’m excited to unveil it to the local Orlando community for National Chocolate Day.”
Four Seasons Resort Orlando Walt Disney World
In addition to the Curtain Rise cake, guests will experience confections including:
Hazelnut and chocolate kisses
Peanut butter and jelly choux pastry
Chocolate olive oil tartlet
5-spice blueberry cheesecake
Passion fruit baba cake
Matcha and black sesame lollipop
Miliotes, one of only 236 worldwide industry professionals certified by the Court of Master Sommeliers, is opening Wine Bar George at Disney Springs. Wine Bar George will be the only Master Sommelier-led wine bar in the Sunshine State. The menu will feature a range of varietals, vintages and prices, and a large selection of wines by the glass.
“I’m thrilled to share my enthusiasm and passion for wine with each and every guest, and look forward to a fun dessert event at Capa,” notes Miliotes, who is sourcing wines not typically offered at Capa for this exclusive event.
Space is limited as this event will be held in one of the private dining rooms at Capa. Tickets are USD 55 per person and must be purchased online. The September 13 event will begin at 8:00 pm and conclude at 10:00 pm.
The Solar Eclipse is a week away, and Krispy Kreme will be doing something they have never done before!
Krispy Kreme
For a limited time their Original Glazed Doughnuts will be eclipsed by a mouth‑watering chocolate glaze to coincide with the solar eclipse at all shops in Central Florida.
Guests also can get an early taste of this limited-time doughnut during evening Hot Light hours Saturday and Sunday, August 19 and 20, at the following locations:
Krispy Kreme Winter Park – Drive thru Open 24 hours
1031 S. Orlando Avenue (17-92), Winter Park, FL 32789
Krispy Kreme Kissimmee – Open 24 hours
5310 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway, (192 / Mile Marker 11.5), Kissimmee, FL 34746
Krispy Kreme Daytona Beach – Open 24 Hours
980 W International Speedway Blvd., Daytona Beach, FL 32114
Krispy Kreme Melbourne – Drive thru Open 24 Hours
2040 N Wickham Rd, Melbourne, FL 32935
“The solar eclipse is a rare occasion providing a total sensory experience for viewers across the continental U.S. Chocolate will have the same effect as we introduce a first-time chocolate glazing of our iconic Original Glazed Doughnut,” said Jenny Bellanca, vice president of operations for Florida Family Foods LLC, an authorized franchisee of Krispy Kreme Doughnut Corporation. “The Chocolate Glazed Doughnut is a delicious way to experience the solar eclipse – no matter where you are – and we can’t wait for fans to try it.”
The Solar Eclipse Glazed Doughnut features the classic Original Glazed Doughnut, smothered in a rich chocolate glaze. Guests who visit participating Krispy Kreme shops can see the chocolate glaze waterfall as the doughnuts are prepared, smell the aroma of chocolate wafting through the shop and taste the familiar Original Glazed Doughnut smothered in a new delicious chocolate.
Be one of the first to try the tastiest eclipse in history. Find a Krispy Kreme shop near you and find out when the Hot Light is on by going to www.krispykreme.com/Eclipse.
Disclosure: I was invited out by Raglan Road to see experience the new show with Zoe and to try some new bites in exchange for my review. All opinions and exclamation points within this post are my own.
Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant at Disney Springs has always been one of our favorite stops for a great bite to eat and fun, and this summer they are debuting a new show and menu items that you won’t want to miss.
The new show is called ‘Rhythms of Raglan’, presented at no extra charge, is a 90-minute live spectacle of Irish music and dance featuring talented musicians and award-winning Irish Dancers that even lets the littlest of dancers take center stage.
The show itself is fantastic and was produced in Ireland, exported to Raglan Road, & is directed by David Hayes of Riverdance and “The Voice” Ireland edition with lead choreographer Ciaran Keating.
But the highlight of the show is when the little dancers get to take to the stage to try their hand at traditional Irish dancing. After the show begins, the Raglan Road dancers make their way around the restaurant to see which children are interested (and to offer words of encouragement to those who might be a little shy) in participating and to get their names for a fun surprise. The children get a chance to be on stage to dance with the dancers and musical performers, and afterwards are presented with a certificate and sticker. What an awesome souvenir!
The ‘Rhythms of Raglan Road’ show runs daily (including weekends) from 4 pm -5:30 pm. The show also is part of the Rollicking Raglan Brunch entertainment that runs each Saturday & Sunday from 12 – 3 p.m (so you can see it early or at 4 pm on Saturday and Sunday).
And as part of our experience we got to try two new dishes and a new craft beer that will be debuting at Raglan Road before this year’s Great Irish Hooley (you can see the entertainment schedule here & make table reservations here)!
Boaring Burger
This is a grilled wild boar burger with port and pear chutney, crispy onions, garlic and herb aioli, Cashel blue cheese, and arugula on a potato bun.
This was my first time trying a wild boar burger, and it was nothing like I expected! I was expecting the boar to be gamey, but it was a touch sweet which made the sweet and tangy toppings sing.
If you love a loaded burger, the ‘Boaring Burger’ should be on your list of things to try!
Gnocchi sea, gnocchi do
This irresistable dish is a handmade potato gnocchi with seared Georges Bank scallops, crispy pork belly, tomato and brood beans with a white wine butter sauce.
So I am going to be REAL here…I totally convinced Zoe that she wouldn’t like this dish so I could eat her’s…Does that make me a bad mom? Sure. Was it worth it? Totally!!!
The sweet Georges Bank scallops cut the buttery goodness of the potato gnocchi making it a lighter dish than you would expect.
Blagger – Organic Blonde Lager
Once again Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant has teamed up with Orlando Brewing to created a new craft brew that can be bought by the pint or as part of a flight.
I am not a gigantic beer drinker, but the Blagger was really refreshing and lovely.
The Blagger is light in color and low in bitterness at only 6 IBU. Made with organic malts, organic Hallertau hops and organic yeast, this brew has a crisp finish reminiscent of a dry sparkling wine.
