New-to-Me & Worth the Hype in Orlando

I have lived in Orlando long enough that I should have tried these places already… but apparently my food bucket list had other plans.

So welcome to New to Me: Orlando Eats: where I'm finally getting around to the restaurants everyone else has been talking about.

Wave Sushi - Maitland & Mount Dora

WAVE leans heavily into creative formats and Asian-fusion, including playful sushi creations beyond traditional rolls. I heard about their push pop suhi and knew I had to give this a try, because I didn’t even know sushi could do that!

Price range: $13.50 - $20 depending on the sushi push pop

I went with Mango Tango ($16): Tempura shrimp, spicy krab, avocado, mango and tobiko. I loved the flavors and presentation!

Harlow Grove - Winter Garden

Located in the heart of Downtown Winter Garden, Harlow Grove is a Bar and Restaurant destination where great food and good cocktails collide in the absolute best way! We chose to sit around the bar on the main level so we could be close to the DJ and see the entire restaurant during brunch. No rules for us, so we started with a dessert tower, had cocktails in a tea pot and ordered way too much food! Flavors were great and portions were enough for leftovers!

Teapot for two was $30 and we had a few glasses each, drinks range from $15-18 . The dessert tower was $24 and meals ranged from $18-28.

I had the full breakfast with eggs, bacon, potatos and sour dough for $18.

Bulla Gastrobar - Winter Park

I’ve never been to this Spanish brunch and I’ve been missing out! I knew that Bulla had delicious tapas but the curated brunch made my Sunday perfect.

For $32 you can get a 3 course meal with a varity of options to chose from.

I had the croqueta de jamon, huevos bravos (eggs, potatoes, peppers, sauce) & dessert empanadas. You can also add on bottomless sangria or mimoasas for $23.Very filling for a combo deal, authentic Spanish flavors.

The Drake Kitchen + Bar - Downtown Orlando

My unexpected favorite hidden right by where I work. The Drake has a more polished downtown feel with globally inspired food and a craft cocktail program. In looking at the menu in advance we saw they had brussel sprouts and salmon options that would help us stay on our fitness plan. While those were our responsible choices, the espresso martinis were so good they became our personality!

Red Quinoa, Sea Island Red Peas, Chickpeas, Crisp Local Greens, Orange Blossom Honey Mustard Dressing - $26

Fresh and light meal with very big portions.

Estefan’s Kitchen - Kissimmee

I was missing Miami and the richness of Cuban food so Estefan’s quickly moved up my list. You know I'm going to investigate when Cuban flavor shows up on an Orlando menu!

When I see starters like bacon wrapped plantains served with a guava sauce, I know I’m in the right place. I also enjoyed classics like ropa vieja and tres leches!

Slightly higher price points since it’s in the tourist area so about $65 per person, I would recommend coming for Magical Dining where 3 courses is $40. Food was excellent and authentic with enough to take home for leftovers.

Salt & Ember: A Magical Dining Worth the Drive

I love when a restaurant experience reminds me why I’m always up for trying somewhere new. For Magical Dining, I made my way to Mt Dora to check out Salt & Ember, one of the newer spots in town, and let me just say… this one did not disappoint.

From the moment we started with the Tuna Crunch, I knew we were in for a good meal. It was packed with flavor, had the perfect combination of textures, and was the kind of appetizer where I immediately thought, “Could we just order four more of these?” Honestly, I would have happily made the entire meal out of them.

For my entrée, I went with the salmon, and it was cooked beautifully. The salmon was tender, perfectly seasoned and paired with flavors that let the fish shine without overpowering it. It was one of those dishes that doesn't need much explanation, it was simply really, really good.

And because dessert is non-negotiable, my friend and I decided the best strategy was to share both. We tried the tres leches and key lime cheesecake, which gave us the best of both worlds: something rich and creamy alongside something bright and tangy. Both were delicious, but sharing meant we didn't have to choose and I'm always going to support that decision.

What I loved most about this dinner was that it felt like exactly what I want from a night out: good food, good company and a reason to explore somewhere beyond my usual Orlando spots.

Comida: the food you have to try in Puerto Rico

Home isn't always a place, sometimes it's a flavor. For me, it's a colorful piragua melting in the sun, the taste of crispy bacalaítos, warm sorullos, or a savory mofongo. Food has always been my family's love language, bringing everyone together around the table, at the beach, or in someone’s kitchen. These dishes aren't just staples of Puerto Rican cuisine, they're pieces of my childhood, my culture, and the memories that remind me where I come from. If you're visiting Puerto Rico, don't just see the island... taste it. Every bite has a story to tell.

While exploring the plazas in Puerto Rico, one stop you can’t miss is a piragua stand! A piragua is a traditional Puerto Rican treat made of hand-shaved ice, packed into a cone or pyramid shape and topped with vibrant, fruit-flavored syrups. The name piragua is likely derived from pirámide (pyramid) and agua (water), representing its cone shape.

I went for guava, but the piragüero insisted I try a classic: tamarindo. With its sweet and tangy flavor, it has a deeper, more tart taste that’s less sugary than most and honestly, the combination was perfect. Refreshing, flavorful, and exactly what you need while strolling through the city in the heat

A staple of Puerto Rican cuisine, mofongo is made with mashed green plantains (plátanos), garlic, and savory seasonings, creating a dish that's crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with flavor. The best part? You can customize it with juicy chicken, tender shrimp, succulent steak, or crispy pork rinds (chicharrón). It's authentic comfort food that captures the heart of Puerto Rican cooking in every bite. Trust me, once you discover the magic of plátanos, you'll be hooked.

Empanadillas are Puerto Rico's answer to the classic empanada but with their own island twist. Unlike the thicker, baked versions found in other countries, Puerto Rican empanadillas are made with a thinner dough, folded into a half-moon, and fried until perfectly golden and crispy. They can be filled with seasoned chicken, beef, shrimp, or chunks of pork, making every bite savory and satisfying. My favorite will always be the ones my grandma made for me, crispy on the outside, packed with flavor on the inside, and served with a whole lot of love.

Move over fries, sorullos deserve a spot on your beach snack list. These crispy Puerto Rican cornmeal sticks have a crunchy exterior with a warm, pillowy center that makes them completely addictive. Pair them with a cold piña colada, ocean views, and salty air, and you've got the ultimate island happy hour. It's one of those simple, authentic bites that instantly transports you into vacation mode.

Pasteles aren't just a meal, they're a labor of love. Made from a mixture of grated green bananas, plantains, root vegetables, and filled with seasoned meat before being wrapped in banana leaves, each pastel takes time, patience, and generations of tradition to create. They're most commonly enjoyed during Christmas in Puerto Rican households, bringing families together in the kitchen for an all-day cooking tradition. While many people only enjoy them during the holidays, I'm lucky enough to have them whenever I visit Puerto Rico, where every pastel feels like a celebration and a reminder of home.

No trip to Puerto Rico is complete without trying a bacalaíto. This paper thin, crispy cod fritter is a beloved beachside favorite, made with salted cod folded into a light, savory batter and fried to golden perfection. The edges are perfectly crisp, the fish is incredibly flavorful, and it's the kind of snack that disappears faster than you expect. I may be a little biased, but the very best bacalaítos came straight from my Uncle Ray's kitchen, made with love and served fresh, they're a taste of home I'll never stop craving.

Caffeine Crawl in Portland, Maine

Caffeine Crawl: My Favorite Caffeine Stops in Portland, Maine

If there's one thing I do in every new city, it's find the best caffeine. Whether it's a cozy café, a perfectly whisked matcha, or my personal favorite the espresso martini, I'm always up for a little pick-me-up.

Portland, Maine, did not disappoint. From the buttery pastries and expertly crafted coffee at Tandem, to the vibrant matcha creations at Matcha Mood, and the espresso martinis at The Grill (because let's be honest, that's my favorite way to enjoy coffee ), each stop had its own personality and flavor.

Whether you're an early-morning coffee enthusiast, a fellow matcha lover, or someone who prefers their caffeine with a splash of vodka, here's where I recommend getting your fix while exploring Portland.

Tandem Coffee in the West End, get there early there is always a line becuase the coffee and freshly baked goods are amazing. This place was so good, we went every single morning! They are known for their biscuits and for good reason! I had to have the loaded savory: Buttermilk biscuit with Fredrikson Farm goat cheese and house made tomato jam and it was 100/10! They also have cookies, scones, pie and quiche!

Matchamood, the first dedicated matcha bar in Portland, Maine. Their menu is a matcha girl's dream, featuring flavors like strawberry, purple ube, black sesame, coconut cloud, Biscoff, yuzu lemonade, and more. You can customize your drink with coffee jelly, order it iced, hot, or blended as a frappe, making it easy to find your perfect matcha mood. I went with the Purple Matcha, an iced matcha with ube and lavender and it was just as delicious as it was photogenic.

Don't skip the croffles (croissant + waffle). Whether you're craving sweet options like strawberries & cream, cookies & cream, or Biscoff, or savory favorites like egg & bacon or ham & cheese, they're the perfect pairing with your drink. And if you're traveling with someone who's not on the matcha train, they also serve rich Vietnamese coffee, so everyone leaves happy. It's one of those cafés that's just as fun to photograph as it is to sip your way through.

The Grill Room & Bar is known for the best espresso martinis! This urban steakhouse has a great vibe and the bar was so much fun! The staff was fantastic, bartenders made the best drinks, shoutout to Karl! Their version “TGR” is a little different: Smirnoff Vanilla, Mr. Black Coffee Liqueur, Espresso, Frangelico, Baileys. Top tier!

Foodie Finds in Portland, Maine

Tandem Coffee in the West End, get there early there is always a line becuase the coffee and freshly baked goods are amazing. This place was so good, we went every single morning! They are known for their buscuits and for good reason! I had to have the loaded savory: Buttermilk biscuit with Fredrikson Farm goat cheese and house made tomato jam and it was 100/10! They also have cookies, scones, pie and quiche!

Matchamood, the first dedicated matcha bar in Portland, Maine. Their menu is a matcha girl's dream, featuring flavors like strawberry, purple ube, black sesame, coconut cloud, Biscoff, yuzu lemonade, and more. You can customize your drink with coffee jelly, order it iced, hot, or blended as a frappe, making it easy to find your perfect matcha mood. I went with the Purple Matcha, an iced matcha with ube and lavender and it was just as delicious as it was photogenic.

Don't skip the croffles (croissant + waffle). Whether you're craving sweet options like strawberries & cream, cookies & cream, or Biscoff, or savory favorites like egg & bacon or ham & cheese, they're the perfect pairing with your drink. And if you're traveling with someone who's not on the matcha train, they also serve rich Vietnamese coffee, so everyone leaves happy. It's one of those cafés that's just as fun to photograph as it is to sip your way through. 💚

Start the day with famous gourmet potato donuts at Holy Donut! Started by a a visionary single mother, who her apartment kitchen into a donut laboratory fueled by a desire to offer a healthier donut that she felt comfortable sharing with her daughter. With so many fun flavors to try, I opted for the Lavendar donut!

Lunch at Highroller is a must! Known for their lobster rolls and beer, the menu has also expanded to include oysters, red snappah red hot dogs, grilled cheese, whoppie pies and more! We opted for hot lobster rolls with butter, red hot dogs, chicken nuggets and a variety of fries.

Sur Lie is a tapas style restaurant with a unique and local flare. We did the Chef’s Choice Tasting and it was amazing! Some of the dishes we tried had such unique touches like mussles with bruschetta, Shakshuka made with lamb, fried brussel sprounts with tastes of pistashio and pomergrante, tuna tartare with shaved foie gras and a vanilla ice cream made with olive oil was my favorite!

Crispy Gai is a small local spot not to be missed! Orignally went for the variety of crispy wings but realized they have so many great options! Rangoon spring rolls, Maine crab, cream cheese, sweet chili sauce - say less. The thai basil mushroom Pad See Ew was packed with so much flavor, I’m still dreaming about it! They also donate $1 for each item with a small heart on the menu to different local community organizations, so you are helping give back to the community when you dine there!

Just walking distance from the pier you can get the best Italian food at ViA VECCHiA. Located in an iconic brick and ivy covered building overlooking cobblestone streets, it has the perfect evening out vibe. All of their wine is imported but our server was so knowledgeable in helping each of of find something that went well with our meal and that we would love! The focaccia and aranchini is a nonnegotiable to start with, both were amazing! The chicken marsala and campanelle were table favorites but everything was fresh, flavorful and delicous!

For a special night out, Fore Street is the place. In 2001 and 2006, Fore Street was named in Gourmet Magazine's Top Fifty Restaurants of the United States. In 2004, Chef-partner Sam Hayward was named “Best Chef – Northeast” by the James Beard Foundation. Oysters & steak for the best surf & turf you’ve ever had!

Enjoy a local brew at Austin Street Brewery. Open concept vibe with both indoor and outdoor seating. They are known for their corn dogs and you can do a happy meal on Wednesdays and get a corn dog and beer for a discounted price! I enjoyed a glasss of “After the Glitter Fades” Tart Blonde Ale with Mint & Lime and it was so refreshing!

The Grill Room & Bar needs to be on the list if only for the best espresso martinis! This urban steakhouse has a great vibe and the bar was so much fun! The staff was fantastic, bartenders made the best drinks, shoutout to Karl! Another favorite was the Maine Blueberry Gin & Tonic but they also have a mocktail list and variety of beers. They are known for their beef tartare and steak but also have oysters, pizza, and lobster mashed potatoes that were great!

Shipyard Brewing & Tasting Room was a great stop for the group, lots of seating and a variety of drink options. Beers on tap, prosecco or vodka, CBD or THC drinks and sodas give a wide range so everyone can find something. I mixed their Blue Lobster Prosecco with the Blueberry Seltzer with 10mg of CBD for a relaxing refreshing drink.

Make it stand out

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

MIAM Miami & all day breakfast

/mjam/ (n.) — the French way to say “yum”… and honestly, it fits perfectly 💛

Tucked right in the heart of Wynwood’s arts district, this spot had been on my list and since my friend Jackie is the queen of all-day breakfast, brunch here was non-negotiable after our museum day.

It’s a casual counter-order setup, but while I was in line I spotted their matcha situation and immediately pivoted!

They layer fruit at the bottom (mango or strawberry), and I didn’t even hesitate… instant order.

10/10 would go back for the matcha alone.

For quick bites they have empanadas: you have a choice of beef, chicken, spinach or ham & cheese.

But where they really shine? The food.
Think fluffy pancake stacks loaded with Nutella, dulce de leche, even Dubai chocolate 👀
Or if you want something savory, they’ve got grain bowls, salads topped with mahi mahi, Caribbean chicken or steak, plus open-faced toasts and sandwiches.

But like I said… we came for breakfast.

I went with the Iberian breakfast burrito and it did not miss:
flour tortilla, scrambled eggs, cheddar, Iberian ham croqueta, avocado smash, pickled onions, pico de gallo, sour cream + a side salad.

Vanderpump Rules Foodie Guide

If you’re a foodie and a Vanderpump Rules fan, this is basically the ultimate dream day. I set out on a full-on culinary crawl through some of the most iconic, cast-owned spots

Starting with lunch at Something About Her, the chic sandwich shop that lives up to all the hype. Owned by Ariana Madix and Katie Maloney and located in We-Ho. The line was long but thankfully the food was worth the 45 minute wait to just walk in. Almost all of us ordered “The Drew”, priced around $14-$18. It features a sweet and savory mix of whipped chive-infused goat cheese, mango jalapeño jam, shaved Pink Lady apples, cucumber, balsamic glaze, and arugula on an artisan baguette. Make sure to add the prosciutto for the ultimate sandwich.

Later in the day after doing some exploring, we went straight into the drama and ambiance of dinner at SUR Restaurant & Lounge, where it truly feels like you’ve stepped onto the show. It was a no brainer to order the signature Pump-tini and goat cheese balls. Both lived up to the hype!

And of course, no day would be complete without ending the night with cocktails at TomTom, because what’s a Vanderpump-inspired day without a little bit of glam, good drinks, and just the right amount of chaos?

All About Absinthe

Classic cocktails, French- and Spanish-influenced fare a focus at Death in the Afternoon

“Death in the Afternoon” is a book by Ernest Hemingway about bull fighting in Spain and it was also a drink invented by Hemingway - Pour one jigger absinthe into a Champagne glass. Add iced Champagne until it attains the proper opalescent milkiness. Drink three to five of these slowly.

Thankfully, this cocktail bar gave the drinks a much more delicious spin! The menu gives a nod to both French & NOLA style in addition to Spanish fare. On the Happy Hour menu we tasted a few options:

Shrimp Ceviche made with Florida rock shrimp and served with tostones.

And the broccoli / manchego empanadas served with a jalapeño crème.

Mofongo from Diners Drive ins & Dives

Guy Fieri made a trip to West Palm Beach to try some of the best mofongo outside of the island of Puerto Rico. La Cosinita Latina Restaurant has truly Authentic Puerto Rican Cuisine. A quaint location in South Florida which built by family and continues to be family-run to this day uses authentic flavors, ingredients and taste.

My go to order is the palomilla steak with mofongo (without chicharones). But let me take a few steps back and explain each item:

Palomilla Steak - Palomilla steak is a thinly cut top sirloin. Top sirloin is a very tender lean cut of meat, which is perfect for the traditional thin cut of the palomilla. It's incredible how tender and flavorful your steak can be considering how thin it is and fast it cooks!

Mofongo - Classic plantain mofongo is a dish made of fried plantains, mashed and mixed with garlic paste and chicharrón. It is served alongside beef broth.

Chicharones - crispy pork skin

I also like to have one pastele on the side with it. Pasteles are made with pork and adobo stuffing encased in a green plantain masa and wrapped in banana leaves. It is something takes a lot of time and effort to make.

Orlando Taco Tuesday

Tuesday should be the best day of the week because it’s all about the Tacos! Here are some of my favorites (I will be updating regularly)

Talkin Tacos - 3123 S Orange Ave Suite 106, Orlando, FL 32806 (Jan 17)

Less talkin’ more tacos! I knew I had to try this new spot in SoDo. The aesthetic alone had me dying to come in, you know I love a good mural moment!

I went with the Cali Burrito - California Style Burrito: Flour Tortilla, Rice, Your Choice of Protein ( I went with steak), Cheese sauce, French Fries, Chihuahua Cheese, Avocado Salsa, Sour Cream, Spicy Mayo, Takis, and Cilantro. The burrito comes with chips dusted with cheese and a dippin cheese sauce. I also had to have a Jarritos agua fresca.

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Solita Tacos - 222 S Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32801 (Nov 30)

I went with the quesadillas - two large flour tortillas, cheese, salsa fresca & guacamole. What was super fun is that their flour tortillas are pink! The chicken was full of flavor and their salsa had just the right amount of kick.

They have a Taco Tuesday special from 3p - 6p on Tuesdays. Street tacos 2 for $7 or 4 for $12. Plus drink specials on the tequila.

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Rocco’s Tacos - 7468 W Sand Lake Rd, Orlando, FL 32819

They used to do an all you can eat taco deal but recently switched it up to $2 off tacos and margaritas. You can do individual tacos or taco platters that come with yellow rice and choice of beans. I went with their classic spicy beef and the carne asada. I also love their esquite, which is a side big enough to share! Lots of margarita options and both bar areas are super lively!

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Barrio Tacos - 749 N Alafaya Trail, Orlando, FL 32828 (Sept 15)

This place has perfected the build your own taco concept. You pick the kind of shell, style of filling, protein and add ons. My favorite proteins are the coca-cola marinated steak, beef short rib and the spiced rub chicken. They also have a variety of salsa and sauces. The combinations and possibilities are endless.

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Black Rooster - 1323 N Mills Ave, Orlando, FL 32803 (Sept 3)

Street taco style quick service restaurant. most of the tacos are around $4 and its recommended to get 2 or 3. I go for the Carne Asada - Seared beef, house marinade, onions, salsa, cilantro and they also have the Black Rooster Asada - Seared beef, apple wood smoked bacon, Oaxaca cheese, pickled chile poblano. Smoke Beef Brisket is another fav Thinly sliced beef, chimichurri, romaine lettuce, crema fresca, pico de gallo, cotija cheese. They also have chicken and pork options too. Make sure to add chips & guac to the order too!

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Other local taco favorites:

Taco Kat - 11 S Court Ave, Orlando, FL 32801 | $2 tacos & margaritas on Tuesdays

Tin & Taco - 40 W Washington St | 419 E Michigan St | 861 N Alafaya Trail,

Agave Azul - 900 S Orlando Ave | 4750 S Kirkman Rd

Cilantro’s Taqueria - 1427 S Bumby Ave, Orlando, FL 32806

Jacksonville Food & Drinks

Jacksonville, or Jax as the locals call it, is a city in the north east corner of Florida. There are beaches, a cute downtown and lots to do!

Most important meal of the day

Looking for a delicious breakfast? Grumpy’s is worth the drive! They pride themselves on providing home-style cooking, attention-to-detail, sweet southern hospitality and serving a hungry-person's portion at a working-class price. They close at 2pm so make sure to come early. I saw they do fun flavored waffles and had to try. The waffle of the day was cookie dough but I went for the red velvet and yes it comes with pieces of cake. It might be called Grumpy’s but everyone is friendly and you will leave full and happy!

Start with Matcha

I found this cute coffee shop, Flamingo on yelp and fell in love! I loved the chill vibe in here. Soft music, great lighting. You could sit at the bar, a couple high tops or a couch with some chairs.

I stopped in for a matcha and it was fantastic! They whisk it authentically and you can add sweetners if you would like. They offer a variety of milk and non dairy options.

Poptarts

I went to another cute coffee shop but this time for some snacks. I read about the poptarts at Vagabond Coffeee. They had two different flavors but I went with the mix berries. They had indoor and outdoor seating. Next door is a cute theater, great for photos.

Hidden Gem

I originally wanted to try their tacos in a bag but had no idea Obscura Social House only served breakfast only until 2pm and wouldn’t have the tacos until 6pm. Went with the breakfast taco options instead. They sell out of items so come early if you can!

Local brews

There are a lot of local breweries in the area. I looked up some reviews and went with Aardwolf Brewing Company. They have a great outdoor area and a nice indoor brewery with plenty of seating. They are known for their sour beers. I went with the San Marco Sour.

Tacos but make them PINK

PINK Tacos? You read that right. There is a new place in Orlando serving up traditional Mexican food but an Instagramable flare.

Vibe

It doesn’t seem it from outside but as soon as you walk in you are welcomed into a pink whimsical wonderland. You can sit in tables or booths both inside and outside.

Drinks

They do have margaritas and other beverages but I had to go with their agua fresca and did the lemon flavor. It was crisp and refreshing and not too sweet.

Tacos

They offer a variety of traditional Mexican meal options but they only have pink corn tortillas for their tacos. They are mini sized and come three to an order. I went with the

Dessert

They have a few options to try like churros … but I just HAD to try their Tres Leches! It’s my favorite dessert but what really drew me to theirs was the pink accents, scoop of ice cream and extra pink milk to pour over!

Photo Ops

There are plenty of instagram worthy backdrops, like pink walls, greenery walls, fun accents on the tables. But the queen of photo moments is their bathtub filled with pink balls.

Savannah Food & Drinks

More than just typical Southern Food in Savannah!

Breakfast

Maple Biscuit Company

I love fresh biscuits, so was really excited to try this place out. Warning there is a line, but that usually means its worth it! I had the Squawking Goat, which was featured on Food Network. Flaky biscuit, all-natural fried chicken breast, fried goat cheese medallion and house-made pepper jelly. IT WAS AMAZING. They sell their house maple and one with bourbon but man I wish they sold this jelly! So much flavor, and filling! My friend got the three layer cake appetizer and she said it was the best thing she ever had! Fried hash brown cake with smoked gouda cheese, topped with chives, gravy, and an egg.

Goosefeather

Another great gem that tends to have a line. They have fresh breads, pastries and pies for sale in addition to your typical breakfast food. I opted to try the peach bars and it was SO GOOD! Croissants and bagels were so fresh and they serve coffee in cups or large steins!

Huey’s

Cajun comes to Savannah! We came here for the variety of eggs benedicts and beignets and they did not disappoint. My friend went with the crab cake benny that came with a fried green tomato, I had the friend chicken one with pepper bacon hollandaise, both were packed with flavor and a good portion of food! Beignets come in 3 or a dozen!

Lunch/ Dinner

The Grove

Made a reservation for lunch but decided instead of eating in the main restaurant, to enjoy the beautiful day on the rooftop. BEST DECISION! They have both high tops and couch with table seating. Live music and gorgeous views of the city. For starters we did the hummus and guacamole plates. Large portions both delicious. First round of drinks HAD to be the champagne pop that came with a King of Pop popsicle! That day the flavor was blueberry and it was amazing. Perfect on a summer day! We also ordered burgers with fries and switch to their adult capri sun drinks called the Cruel Summer Pouch, so much fun! It was flavored vodka, fresh fruit, OJ and club soda.

Graffitio Pizza

I love pizza! I love specialty pizza even more! Graffitio is located on the riverfront within the JW Marriott property. There is indoor and outdoor seating. We started with the melon and prosciutto and it was out of this world! They fried the prosciutto like bacon and the saltyness paired perfectly with the fresh melons and mint. The honey and balsamic was also a perfect touch! For pizza, we split the quatro formaggi and it was a mushroom lovers dream! So much flavor and the crust was crisp but still fluffy.

Corleone’s

Italian restaurant in the heart of DT. You could smell the amazing food just as you walk up! The wines were great, make sure to ask for the pairing with the food you have. Everything was delicous!

Drinks

Electric Moon

What a fun spot! Rooftop bar but covered so it was perfect when it started to rain! They have a variety of clusters of tables and seating and also hightop and bar seats. We only came for drinks but they do have some food options. I had the ELECTRIC MOON LEMONADE which had Absolut Citron, Blue Curacao, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup. It was very sweet! My friend opted for the BLACKOUT which had Tito’s Handmade Vodka Muddled Blackberries, Lime, Simple Syrup, Sprite, Soda Water and she liked it. For an extra $10 you can get your drink served in a really fun lightbulb cup and you keep the cup. Unfortunately they were out of them when we went.

Two Tide Brewery

Originally had this on my list because they have a huge mural on the side of the brewery but I’m so glad we decided to go inside. This brewery is in a converted house which is pretty cool! Each room has a super cool mural, eclectic furniture and seating and a great vibe. Pro tip to get on the balcony, just open the windows! They have so many beers on tap, I recommend doing flights so you can try a few options!

The Grove

Adding this here twice because even if you only have time for drinks, add this to you list! In addition to the great options we had listed above. They also have large group drinks like a big cups that have like 12 drinks inside which make for good pictures too!

Downtown St. Pete Food & Drinks

Downtown St. Pete is bursting with flavor! There are so many places to eat and drink, especially on Central Ave!

Breakfast/ Brunch

The Mill

200 Central Ave UNIT 100

Make reservations if you can because this place books up fast and for good reason. The food and drinks for brunch are amazing! You can get a pitcher of mimosas for $34 and every pitcher after is half off, if you are with a  group this is a great deal! If you enjoy coffee for the El Duderino, it’s cold brew vodka with frosted flakes on top! The Sausage and Waffle Benny was out of this world! First, the waffle is made out of corn bread. Then they place two sausages on either corner then a fried green tomato under the egg with delicious hollandaise sauce on top!

The Library

600 5th St S

Inspired by the George Peabody Library

This place is perfect for brunch. Another spot you should make a reservation early and request to sit inside. As the name indicates, the theme is a library so the walls are filled with books and the check providers come in old books! To start with drinks, they have the typical variations of mimosa, bellina, etc but if you want a signature cocktail I say go for the beautiful pink Hawthorne Margarita it had corazon blanco tequila with fresh lime juice, and hibiscus syrup very tasty but not overly sweet! The library's signature cocktail, The Librarian  was also a good choice, Hendrick’s Gin with St Germain, orange bitters and filthy cherry  and the  Title with vodka, rosemary, lavender and lemon.  Most of us had the shrimp cesar salad. It was a big portion with romain, tomato, chopped eggs, olives, pancetta and a garlic crostini on top. The Breakfast Flatbread Pizza was also a great option, caramelized onions, three cheeses, sausage and eggs on top! For the sides no matter what you get, go for the truffle fries! We got two for our table because they were so good! And for dessert, go for the cinnamon bun with the cream cheese glaze and fresh strawberries! 

Tap Room at the Hollander

421 4th Ave N

This was the restaurant at our hotel and we came here due to timing and wanting to go to the pool for a little bit. The inside of this hotel, restaurant and bar is so cool! It’s worth checking out and walking around. They had a small menu but all the standard breakfast items. We both went with eggs, their breakfast potatoes were so crispy and delicious! I also enjoyed their biscuits, you can get them in pairs of two. And if you want to be extra you can get a little bowl of smashed avocado!

Squeeze Juice Works

18 22nd St S

I don't drink coffee but I love finding little shops and enjoying a matcha latte. I came across Squeeze when looking for the Hoxxoh mural (which is right next door). This is a light quick breakfast option if you don’t want anything heavy. You can grab and go or enjoy on their outdoor patio. They offer non dairy milk and dessert options. I had a pastry and the highlight was their matcha lemonade! I love matcha and this was a cold drink with a fun color combination filled with flavor!

Others on my list: Cassi’s, Datz, Maple Street Biscuit Company

Lunch

Doc Ford on the Pier

610 2nd Ave NE

This place has a very casual vibe and amazing views! They have a full bar and both indoor and outdoor seating. For lunch I had the grouper sandwich grilled. It is served on a fresh roll and the fish was so fresh and full of flavor! The burger was also an easy classic option. Both served with fries. 

Engine No. 9

56 Dr M.L.K. Jr St N

If you enjoy a good burger, you HAVE to eat here! The names of each burger are amazing and so creative! I had the Windy City, prosciutto, basil pesto, mozzarella and tomato - SO GOOD! The prosciutto with the burger gave such a  unique flavor. My friend got the Thin Lizzy a vegetarian option, so lots of veggies on a grilled multigrain toast. Another favorite at our table was the shrimp burger, jumbo shrimp patty, crispy slaw, cajun sauce and guacamole. You can do thin crispy fries or sweet potato fries. 

Others on my list: Dr BBQ, Bavaro's Pizza Napoletana & Pastaria, The Lure

Dinner

Social Roost

150 1st Ave N

The vibe here is so cool. Indoor and outdoor seating. The drinks here are so unique and beautiful! I had to have the Social Butterfly, gin, passion fruit, lemon and an orange blossom. It was strong and a pretty pink color! My friend went with the goddess cucumber jalapeno tequila drink and said it was the perfect amount of heat and refreshing flavor.  For food, you have to start with the ricotta toast! I wish it was larger because I could have eaten that as a main dish. It was so delicious! Honey made ricotta, honeycomb, elderflower and strawberries on a thick toast. The chicken and waffles was phenomenal and not just for brunch! The fluffy waffle was topped with a crispy boneless chicken topped with a smoked maple syrup and served with bacon butter on the side with a watermelon salad. The smoked maple syrup gives that smoked cooked flavor on top of the fried chicken. The watermelon seals the deal as a perfect southern comfort meal! 

Red Mesa Cantina

128 3rd St S

Details on drinks below, they do not take reservations here but they have a nice outdoor bar that is the perfect place to wait and have a drink beforehand. For the table we started with chips and guacamole, crispy plantains and yuca. Everything was delicious! For the mains, if you do not like spice tell your server because everything seemed to have a kick! For my main dish I had the palomilla steak, it’s my favorite Cuban dish but I figured I would give it a go! I am so glad I did, it was the most delicious meal I had the entire trip! They cooked it perfectly, grilled onions on top then had the classic french fries on top with a tamarind aioli drizzle that was a little spicy. I was also served with plantains. A lot of the girls went with bowls like the chicken bowl or the barbacoa bowl. Meat, cheese, veggies and rice were a perfect dinner option packed with mexican flavors. If you do not want shredded meat (all the bowls have shredded meat) go with the Chicken Fernandez, mojo grilled chicken served with rice and veggies. If you are gluten free almost all of the items can be GF and the chips are corn chips! 

Others on my list: The Avenue, Trophy Fish

Drinks

The Canopy

340 Beach Dr NE

They do not take reservations but try to come early for Happy Hour and score a table with an amazing view of the pier! For a starter we did the crudite and hummus which was such a large and wonderful presentation! Roasted red pepper hummus with raw veggies, tzatziki and grilled pitas. We also could not say no to the truffle fries! Happy Hour is from 4p - 7p and they have $5 wines and $3 beer with half off some of their cocktails.

No Vacancy

937 Central Ave

This is a fun spot that gives me the tropical Miami vibes. The inside is a little small but I thought the outside was a better and more fun option anyway (they also have big umbrellas to keep you cool)! They have fun tropical flora pillows on bench booth style seating and every few feet are tables with stand alone chairs around the table. They also have the egg porch style chairs and fun lawn games in the middle. If you have a group they have a bunch of fun fish bowls that have a few drinks in them! We all got the peach don’t kill my vibe and it was the perfect choice! Tito’s vodka, lavender, peach and lemon and it had a nice visual layer to it! Unfortunately that day we went they did not have food available but you could eat there too!

Red Mesa Cantina

128 3rd St S

The outside area of the bar is covered and has a bunch of fans so it stays very cool and a perfect place to wait for your table. They have both red and white sangria and if you are with a group, you could get a pitcher for a better price than by the glass. The ladies that did not have sangrai all went with the Lifted Lemonade and kept ordering them since they were so good! Made with vodka, muddled sage, touch of sugar, passion fruit nectar and lemon juice. If you don’t like sweet you can ask for them to go lighter on the passion fruit for the perfect drink!

Others on my list: Parks & Rec, Swingers, grand Central Brewhouse Rooftop, Wild Child, Whiskey Exchange. If you like beer there are so many Breweries: Three Daughters, Pinellas Ale Works Brewery, Cage Brewing, Green Bench Brewing, Cycle Brewing.

San Antonio Food

San Antonio is one of my favorite cities in Texas. It may not be as big city as it’s sister cities, San Antonio brings a unique charm and lots of amazing food. The culture you find in this city is in full force and your tastebuds will appreciate it the most!

Art of Donut

It is so hard for me to say no to a donut but when I see fun and unique flavors, I’m in heaven! Art of Donut really takes the culinary art of baking to another level. Perfectly located just down the street from the zoo and Japanese tea gardens, it completes a lovely afternoon exploring.

Fun flavors like Mr O, and Oreo donut; WTFT what the French toast, maple cinnamon icing with cinnamon French toast crunch and bacon on top. I went with the leprechaun charms. Bright blue caramel frosting with lucky charms cereal on top.

NOLA Brunch

New Orleans was one of my favorite vacations. I was so surprised to find a nod to the big easy in Texas! Beignets are the sweet powdery treat I missed the most so when I saw it on the menu, I knew I had to go for breakfast. I was so tempted to go with their bread pudding French toast which is served with an almond raisin granola but was trying not to overload on carbs and save it for dessert. I instead went with the uptown eggs Bennie. Served with a buttermilk biscuit, fried green tomato, poached egg and I skipped the shrimp creole. The fried green tomato was so goo I thought I was back in the south! It is so cozy inside, almost like you are at a friend’s mama’s house

Mad Hatter Tea

I am not a coffee drinker so am always on the lookout for cool tea rooms. Alice in wonderland is a whimsical fairy tale so I was very excited to check this place out. They specialize in having a variety of teas, certified kosher, organic, gluten free, and non gmo options. I went in for breakfast and enjoyed eggs, potatoes and fresh fruit. It was a great way to start my day!

Steel City Pops

I’m a sucker for ice cream. Even though it was pretty cold, for this Floridian, I still made the trip out to try steel city pops. What is so cool about this location is that you can see the factory and watch the treats being made. There are so many options to customize your pop with multiple flavors, drizzles and toppings.

Esquire Tavern

We were looking for a happy hour place with a nice view. San Antonio is known for the Riverfront so we wanted to be on the river. After a little searching on yelp, I found Esquire Tavern. Monday through Friday from 3pm - 7pm you can enjoy $3 off all menu cocktails and wine by the glass and $1 off Texas draft beers. They also have a small happy hour food menu list which includes jalapeños rellenitos, shrimp toast, green eggs and ham nachos, taco con papa and deviled eggs. We requested to sit outside with a view of the river and it did not disappoint.

Señor Veggie

I try to stay somewhat healthy on vacation, when I can. I was meeting a friend who is vegetarian so thought it a perfect opportunity to try Senor Veggie. It is a walk up counter then you order and get a number. There were so many options I wanted to try but I went with the house specialty macaroni con queso which I steamed broccoli, cashew cheese sauce and almond Parmesan which is perfect for those eating vegan! I paired that with the black bean and quinoa burger that is served with chipotle mayo and guacamole.

Smoke Shack

Texas is known for the BBQ, so it was a given. Smoke Shack is a very popular lunch spot, so plan your time accordingly. If you know me, I am a sucker for some Fritos so when I saw there was a frito pie on the snack menu, I knew I had to have it! Bowl filled with brisket, pinto beans, cheese and bbq sauce. The meat was cooked and seasoned perfectly. I love the how the saltiness of the chips pairs with the sweet sauce. My aunt went for the brisket grilled cheese and she said it was heavenly! You get to pick a side, pinto beans, green beans, fried okra , Mac n cheese, spicy cream corn, slaw, potato salad, collard greens or fries. She went with the Mac n cheese and it was ooey gooey goodness. I kind of wish she tried the corn, I love me some Mexican elote and was wondering if it would be similar. Everyone was raving about the sweet tea but I went for the lemonade. If you enjoy tea, I say go for it, it seemed to be a local favorite!

Henry’s Puffy Taco

San Antonio has so much Mexican influence so I new I had to try my favorite kind of food - TACOS. I read a lot about different places to go but all the locals said that Henry’s Puffy Tacos was the place to try them. This location is a little off the beaten path, but it is worth the Uber trip! The idea of a puffy taco is a unique family recipe. Two brothers started this and experimented with various fried foods. They fry corn masa dough and then fill it with either meat or filling of your choice then topped with lettuce and tomato. I went for shredded chicken and carne guisada. Guacamole is extra, but so I am i and I had to have it too!

Food & Drinks of Delray Beach

You might be familiar with Miami and Fort Lauderdale food scenes, but just a bit north is local’s hidden gem of restaurants and bars. Atlantic Ave is walkable and perfect during the day and livens up even more at night.

Dada

Located in one of the oldest historic homes in Delray Beach, Dada is a local favorite. An eclectic interior, tons of artwork and very creative cuisine!

For dinner, you have to start with the truffle fries. The fries are hang cut and topped with truffle oil and parmesan cheese - making it the perfect combination. If you enjoy crab cakes, the jumbo crab cake with key lime mustard aioli is light and delicious. It is paired with a grilled corn salsa that I would put on everything!

For a drink, you have to order the Max Ernst, a delightful gin drink served in a mini bath tub with a rubber duck!

End the meal with dessert, the creme brulee is perfection!

The Office

How perfect is it to say you will be “at the office” a little late today. Happy Hour here is the perfect option.

I love the patio style bar. You can see into the restaurant but still people watch. Also the background is a fun pineapple mural!

To start you have to get the angry cauliflower. It’s gluten free, vegan and a great healthy option on a bar favorite. They crisp the cauliflower bites and toss it in a sweet and spicy sauce.

The burgers are really tasty here too. I keep it classic but you can take your burgers to the CEO level with tomato jame, gruyere, blue cheese and arugula.

Drinks are always flowing but the fact that they serve Frose, is such a winning option especially in this Florida heat! They also have fun drinks like the Pink Slip a sweet vodka, grapefruit and pomegranate drink.

Le Sorrelle

One of the best Italian restaurants I have ever been to. You can tell everything is made fresh and with authentic recipes.

Make sure to stop in for Happy Hour. Between 4p - 7p you can get 50% off drinks and $5 plates on the Happy Hour menu.

I highly recommend the chicken parm. It is such a huge serving of crisp chicken full of flavor with lots of pasta!

Rocco’s Tacos

The best day to come is obviously on Tuesday! But they have happy hour every day from 4p-7p with $3 bottles of beer, $3 wines, $5 cocktails & margaritas. Chow down on $2 tacos and $2 apps.

The atmosphere is laid back and fun! If you miss HH, their dinner is amazing. The molcajetes are a must try! Your food is served in a sizzling traditional lava rock mocajete with flour tortillas, pico, cheese & guac. I went for the carne that had steak, chicken, chorizo and delicious sauces.They also have so many options for tacos, make sure to ask about specials of the day too!

Death or Glory

This is a quaint bar with cozy seating inside, a nice outdoor patio or up at the bar.

To start you need to try the crispy chickpeas dusted in cheetos seasoning. You really think you are having the guilty pleasure snack not something healthy!

I love coming here during the holidays. During Halloween, they go all out in the decorations and have a special menu of spooky drinks and food! Similarly during Christmas, Miracle rolls into town with festive menus!

Batch

While it is not on the main strip, Batch is still worth talking about! I use to visit this gastropub in Miami and was so happy they opened a second location.

You have to try the Batch chicken & waffles! The chicken is brined in sweet tea and fried to perfection! Served on mini cornbread waffles with bourbon maple butter.

My favorite is a Miami secret menu option, the boneless wings tossed in the sweet chili sauce with dorito dust. I dream of these wings! It’s an appetizer so I also order a side of the truffle fries!

They have a great selection of drinks and tons of seating options.

Sweets of The Glass Knife

The perfect way to celebrate anything is with CAKE! And if you are looking for the best in the dessert game, you need to look at The Glass Knife! But the Glass Knife is more than just a dessert cafe! Inspired by a loving and talented mother and upheld by family The Glass Knife has become a pilar in the community! To them, baking was a metaphor for togetherness and celebration, the syrup that kept them together.

You can feel the warmth of family right as you walk in. The decor is of a beautiful kitchen with the tiles and accents of gold. There are multiple display cases of mouth watering treats. You can get some cakes by the slice or the entire cake (serves 8-10 people). There are also various pastries that come in a cuplike cylinder, hand crafted donuts, macaroons or a brownie sundae! We opted for a slice of the red velvet cake and a tiramisu.

Options

There are coffees, teas and even booze! I really appreciated that they have a variety of non dairy milk options, soy, coconut, oat and almond! That is the only way I can enjoy tea or coffee. But the real winner is there summer all day 2-4-1 drink specials on ALL wines, mimosas, sangrias, spritzers and beers. Since we were celebrating, we went for the bubbles!

Since these desserts are a hot commodity, if you are looking for something particular you can order in advance! For cakes, they ask for a 3 day lead time but for donuts, just a day.

Fun fact, dogs are welcome in their beautiful outdoor patio! So you can make your afternoon a yappy hour too!

Foodie Finds: Sacramento

If you love food, Sacramento needs to be added to your list! If you are headed to the California Capitol make to sure include these on your list!

Temple Coffee

Speciality drink is BLISS! Peppermint tea, vanilla soy milk, coconut milk, honey steamed in the milk and you have to wait about 10 mins before you drink it

Fox & Goose

First of all the establishment is housed in what was once the Fuller Paint & Glass Company. Exposed brick is my favorite design element!I enjoyed coming here for breakfast/brunch. The main event - home made scones! Perfectly made, crispy on the outside but velvety on the inside! I think it also has to do with the devonshire cream, the thick spread really compliments the density of the scone. 

Pizza Rock

blends some of my favorite things, good pizza and good music! The vibe inside is really fun and they incorporate a lot of rock and roll elements, like the menus have records as pages. Pizza is an obvious choice but for the appetizer make sure to get the italian coccoli! This is the real hero: Sea Salted Fried Dough, Prosciutto di Parma, Burrata Cheese. SO.MUCH.YES.

BOBA tea

One of my favorite things about California is the mix of so many different cultures. A must try are the boba teas. There are a few different places to try, T4 is the best option for an Instagram experience. It has super cute decor and a lovely flower wall backdrop, but quickly has always been my favorite. Quickly teas are much better in flavor and a bit cheaper. I like getting the taro boba and egg puffs (which are like a sweet waffle). It's a great afternoon snack and way to cool off during the super hot summers in NoCal. 

Soup Dumplings

You don’t really find Soup Dumplings everywhere so when I find them, I have to check it out! Journey to Dumplings was our pick and I loved it! You can really tell each dish is prepared well and with lots of flavor. We opted for traditional pork soup dumplings and pan fried soup dumplings. Remember it is ok to admit you don't know how to eat soup dumplings, it is super important to do it right! Our server taught us a trick with the sauces and spoon and no one burned their mouth! 

Zocalo Mexican

Zocalo Midtown has the best happy hour! Food & drink specials start at just $5! Various types of margaritas like traditional, strawberry basil, blackberry oh my! You can grab a glass or go for the pitcher! The $5 tostadas were our favorite and went great with the chips and guac.