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thedisneychef · 1 year

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Victoria and Albert's Mushroom and Roasted Garlic Soup Recipe

I’ve never tried anything from Victoria and Albert’s and boy, this recipe has me thinking I should save my pennies and give Walt Disney World’s ultimate luxury dining experience a try. Victoria and Albert’s is located at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and is one of the most acclaimed restaurants not only in Walt Disney World, but central Florida. More Delicious Recipes You Will Love: - Roasted Potatoes – Tusker House - School Bread – Kringla Bakeri Og Cafe - Scotch Eggs – Rose And Crown Pub And Dining Room It has the highest luxury fine dining reviews on TripAdvisor and Yelp, and it’s one of only three restaurants in all of Florida to have AAA’s 5-Diamond Award. During your two hour experience, you have not just one, but two servers who work with each person individually to craft your own personal menu that’s laid out over six courses. That is, unless you sit at the Chef’s Table… Then you get your own Executive Chef who comes out and consults on your 11 course meal over three or four hours. No big deal, right? This is one of the highest levels of fine dining out there. Men wear dinner jackets, women wear dresses or pantsuits… They also (somewhat controversially) have a policy to not seat children under the age of 10 due to the size of the dining room and acoustics which command a quieter dining party. I can’t think of any restaurant at Disney that has table side sommilers to help you find individual wine pairings per course. Very fancy pants, for sure. Since dining here is slightly out of my price range, I was really excited to try a recipe from here. Not only did I want to get a taste of what the high rollers get to experience, I wanted the chance to practice some different techniques and just see if I was up to the challenge of making something that’s fine dining-style, as opposed to homestyle. I was really fascinated by this recipe because it wasn’t what I expected, in the absolute best of ways. It ended up being a spectacular reminder that a few well-chosen, high quality ingredients prepared correctly can really knock your socks off. As this is a cheese soup, my mind went immediately to perhaps the most famous cheese soup on property, and I expected this to be really similar. However, it could not be more different. Where the Cheddar Cheese Soup at Le Cellier is thick, creamy, and hearty, this soup is light, clean, and very thin. The texture is more like your traditional broth soup and not a thick cream. Designed to be a light soup course meal, this is a great alternative to people who love the flavor of that other cheddar soup, but not the heaviness. Honestly, and I was told it was sacrilegious to say this, I feel like this soup is actually better than Le Cellier’s soup. While you could bulk it up with bacon for a taste that’s both light and elevated, but slightly more hearty, I really think this soup is best appreciated as-is. I think this recipe is a new favorite of mine and I wish I could do justice to describing the flavor. The sharpness from the beer is obvious, but it’s tamed by the snap of the cheese and the creaminess of the cream, making it a really bold and not overwhelming flavor. While I can only have a bowl of the Le Cellier soup before feeling full, I ate a whole bowl of this and felt warmed, satisfied, but not heavy. It’s so amazingly delicious and perfect as both a cold weather comfort, or a light introduction to a gorgeous, luxurious dinner. In addition to the delicious food and recipes, Disney World is also known for its unique dining experiences, such as character dining and themed restaurants. Whether you want to have breakfast with Mickey Mouse, dine in a replica of a sci-fi drive-in theater at Hollywood Studios, or enjoy a meal with an ocean view at the Coral Reef Restaurant in Epcot, there's something for everyone. And with the help of Recipes Today and the How to Make category, you can even recreate some of these magical dining experiences in your own home. So why not start planning your next Disney-inspired meal or dining experience today? Read the full article

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badwolfweightloss-blog · 1 year

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1-26-23 Weigh in Good.

January is officially in the books. I posted the results to WW. Here are the stats:

Start 216 Week 1: -2.3 Week 2: -2.6 Week 3: -2.2 Week 4: -3.9 Total January Loss: 11 pounds

That's really impressive, considering especially the binge that was wigging me out was this past week (week 4.) I'm happy that January was a success. February has me worried. I will be at Disney world, and its really, really hard to maintain, never mind lose while on vacation. I know from multiple instances that vacations trigger me REALLY BADLY. I have never EVER come back from a vacation and continued a weight loss program successfully. So, I need to come into the last week of February with the best plan to end all plans. I don't know what that looks like. Maybe set my expectation to maintain for February? (with the idea that I lose the first three weeks of Feb?) It just feels like a terrrible plan to gain potentially 6 pounds while I'm at disney world. (The 6 that I anticipate losing.) its like that work goes out the window.

What are my other options? Stay on plan as much as possible during my work week. That's difficult, given that the lunches are provided and I'm at the mercy of the buffet. Ugh, I hate eating in front of people. That's the worst!!!! Also, I am always afraid that I won't have enough food later during vacations by myself. So, how can I handle this? Breakfast will be eggs. Maybe a piece of toast and some fruit. Stay clear of potatoes. Stay clear of bacon and meat. Maybe substitute out the eggs for a sausage or something one of the days. For lunch, eat the lunch, stay clear of cheese. Try for chickens or turkey - as close to what you normally have as possible. For dinner on Sun - its sushi. Just get a roll and the soup. That should be fine. Get some fruit and pirate booty for the room. For Monday, its Epcot - you know where you are eating. Try to stay somewhat healthy in there. No alcohol. For Tuesday its Hollywood studios. Again, you have ideas on quick service. Look it up ahead of time and try to be reasonable. At least both of those days will be walking. But I can't count on exercise to save me. I have to be reasonable with my portion sizes and meals. Next is Wed. I have no dinner plans. I was thinking of going to circus de soil and getting something at Downtown disney. This is possible - maybe look for something reasonable. Or maybe even a quick service sandwich at the hotel before I go? Not sure. That's a big question mark.

For Thurs, the hubby and kids are there. Its going to be quick service at MK. Again, this is a fairly easy thing to control. Sandwich, take away the cheese. Deserts are a big thing once the family arrives. I might say no to MK desert. Maybe stick to popcorn - see if they have airpop option, no butter. For Fri its Epcot and this is definitely going to be a challenge. Space at night - I'm not staying on plan. i am dining at one of the most incredible and expensive restaurants - I'm having my dinner. This is a lets dip into points day. I may even choose to go non-AF on this day. Something challenging here is that we do not have any reservations for lunch or breakfast, so we have to figure out what that is going to look like. I might see if we can get breakfast in our room to eat ahead of time - low cal bread, eggs should work. Then lunch, again finding something lowish points. Snacks at the showcase would be good. I have to stay clear of the alcohol, that I know that Vincent is going to be going towards. I just don't want it. I want to be AF until space. (and even then...?)

Saturday - ack. Hollywood studios, another reservation, this time at Brown Derby. I'm eating all I can eat again. Possibly another wine choice. That's going to have to be the same process as the previousd day. And lunch, maybe we will find that lunch box quick service. I think there are reasonable things there.

Sunday - last day, and arguably the hardest. Buffet! And not just any buffet - one of my favorite. Ever. Like in the world. Its at animal kingdom, and I just love it so so much. I think the key here is going to be loading up on low cal stuff and then getting small selections of the stuff I love. Which is everything. Ack. Well, this is is - this is the last meal and I would not be eating again till the airport, or something on the way to the airport.

This is not an easy thing to navigate, but all i can do it make the best choices I can. Eat at the three restaurants I want to eat at, and make somewhat healthy choices during those meals. The space one especially, I can enjoy the ambiance and eat reasonably. Brown derby - steak. Maybe a salad or soup sub for potatoes. Buffet - ugh. And that's it. Its vacation. Weight loss prayers, please. And, hey, at least we have january success!

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kaitlynpcallmebeepme · 5 years

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Food and Wine Festival

Tom Holland x Reader

Warnings: Fluff and Food

Summary: A trip to Disney World, but seeing it in a new light.

A/N: This is my first of two works I have for @peeterparkr and @marvelousxtsh (now @lovestrucktom) for their Rom Coms writing challenge. Both of them are separate from one another. I am VERY LATE on this, but I had to get my college readings annotated before band camp starts because I know I will have no time then to work at all.

#mandnchickflicksummer

I’ve only been to Epcot once on a band trip and I realized why I don’t like it (or maybe it’s just my family). I tried to do some research before writing this. Comments and feedback are always appreciated. Requests are open and Messages are open if you want to chat. I’m trying to make these shorter because I’m behind on some of my writing. Also, sorry for not really putting the events in order by where they are in the park. I haven’t been there in years and forget how it’s set up. P.P.S. As I was googling stuff, the question came up on what phd does Dr. Doofenshmirtz have on reddit? The person who asked had a username of u/SEND_ME_YOUR_D1CK and that made me laugh at 5 a.m. I’m going to link the two videos that helped me out. One is from Disney Food Blog which gives great coverage on disney snacks in all parks and one is a vlog from one of my favorite youtubers, Syndicate (on his Life of Tom vlog channel)

Disney Food Blog: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lNk550AeBuY

Life of Tom vlog: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GG1-M-EqdLo

P.S. Ok, I’ve now seen Far From Home because I won a bet and my mom said she’d take me to see my first Marvel movie in theaters. I’m going to write something else about what happened that day. ♡

Tag list: Send me an ask if you want to be added.

@trashinaglass and @peter-pan-hoe ( @definitely-not-black-cat and @nnatasha you two seemed to like my stuff so I added you, tell me if you want me to take you off)

Song Prompt:

1. I see the light – Tangled

Word count: 1,383

This ended up being so much longer than I intended.

"Tom. Please. I've been to Disney World a million times. I can probably make it around Magic Kingdom without a map that's how well I know it." It was late summer, before the hussle of school and work swept everyone away, Tom wanted to get away for a mini vacation with you.

“Please come with me. Doesn't mean I don't enjoy it. And you know how much Disneyland freaks out when there's a celebrity there. Also, you can go on different things that you wouldn't normally go on.” You don’t like to admit when he’s right. Your family can be a little controlling when it comes to vacations. Like why does a baseball game need to be involved in every one.

“You know that won’t stop people from coming up to you.”

“We’ll just wear our matching bucket hats and be that couple. Please.” You couldn’t resist his puppy pout anymore, and you both needed a break.

“Ok, as long as we don't go on roller coasters if I get sick from one.”

“I won't make you go through that. Especially the amount of stories you tell me about someone being sick on vacation.”

After a long plane ride and a good night's rest, you two are ready for a trip. You got your backpack with the old school Disney World logo ready to get your weekly tickets. You got the tickets while Tom was spending time with a couple people who noticed him. You both never minded it as long as they were respectful. You thank the lady as Tom heads back to where you’re standing.

“Ok, you want to head to Epcot first?”

That five letter word made you choke on your own spit. You followed Tom up the railway to the monorail. As you waited in line, you felt the need to tell Tom what's been eating at your mind. “Tom, you know I don't really like Epcot that much.”

“What! Why?”

“Well, the only other time I've been here was with my family once we went on the band field trip here. You know my dad never keeps his opinion to himself about how he thinks all of this ozone layer and eco saving thing is bullshit and how he hates culture. He just kinda complained that whole day, so I've never liked the park. Also, there's more food than rides here and you know I’m not a big food guru.”

“Is your dad coming with us?”

“What?”

“Is your dad coming on our vacation with us?”

“No. But what does that-.”

“Then his opinion and voice should not affect our judgement.” To be fair, Tom has changed your opinion on a lot of things, football (English kind) being one of them. You just didn't know if you could shut up that annoying tick in the back of your head that repeats all the things your Dad would say about this place, but you were willing to give it a shot. You grabbed a food passport and map in front of the golf ball and off you two went.

Before entering the park, you booked fastpasses for the one thing you knew you loved at Epcot, and that was Sorin’. It felt like you had wings and earth with its gravity could never take hold of you again. Even with the fastpasses the line wasn’t too long because people wanted to be the first to get the food in all the countries. It reminded you how Harry would have his drones to get the cinematic videos of the ocean washing up on the beach that look gorgeous. But alas, you had to touch ground again and continue.

You two went to have a good time eating stuff. Like you wanted to order everything from the Irish stand, except the alcohol which Tom took so you could keep the decorative cup (best boyfriend ever), so you settled on chocolate pudding with custard and the two of you split the Irish sausage with potatoes and gravy. You two weren’t worried about overfilling yourselves because 1) everyone does that at the food and wine festival and 2) there weren’t many rides that could make you throw up afterwards.

You grab a Light Lab Phosphorescent Phreeze (you secretly wanted to collect all the cups you could) and signed up to do a Perry the Platypus adventure in the UK (just to see if Tom liked their stereotyping). “Okay, well this is from and American Disney Show Phineas and Ferb where they do a bunch of crazy stuff during the summer, and the subplot is their pet platypus is a secret agent that stops this not-so-good supervillain every episode. Dr. Dofesnberg-something was his name. You basically have to go to different shops within the country, follow the story video on our phone, and some objects will move as you interact with stuff. Basically stopping this guy from carrying out his completely elaborate and unnecessary evil scheme to rule the world.”

“Okay, and of course it’s about golf. How can you get more British than that.” Apparently the adventure included tea once you told the cashier a secret word phrase, so yes, it got more British than golf.

You guys stopped by Canada and you could not stop doing impressions of Ryan Renolds as you stopped for a quick snack as the Perry the Platypus mission took an hour. You ordered a Canadian Cheddar Cheese and Bacon soup with pretzel rolls to split (of which you only at the pretzels because even Tom doesn’t know why you don’t like bacon).

After the Frozen ride and a couple more snacks along the way you settled in China and watched some acrobatics and get out of the heat. You couldn’t do everything in Mexico, but the San Angel Inn would be a place you save for a different trip. You got your faces painted to be half skulls with decorative details. It definitely helped you get recognized less.

Last stop of the night before the fireworks/water show you traveled to Japan. The architecture was realistic and you just thought of the time it took for someone to design and construct that. You both waited in line to try to see if you could get a pearl out of an oyster. You both end up getting one with the lady being very excited for you two. “Mine was 7 ¾ mm, and what was your Tom?”

“7 ½ mm. But you know size doesn’t matter.”

It wasn’t long before the fireworks and lights danced on the water’s surface and you two were heading back from a long day. Tom wanted to take the ferry boat back complaining that the line for the monorail was too long. It always is but the boat was very slow. You gave into his wishes because he was the one who made you enjoy the park today. You stood over the bow of the ship looking at your reflection upon the water until Tom broke you from your thoughts.

“So, didn't I say you would have a good time?”

“Yes you did. My dad's opinion did not affect my judgement as much as I thought it would. It’s still hard to see things with my own opinion, but I’m getting better at it. Thank you Tom.”

“My pleasure princess. Maybe next time we can crack some oysters and keep the pearl” You two share a sweet kiss and the fireworks in Magic Kingdom across the water started going off. Nothing could make this moment more romantic. “But there's still one more thing to do tonight.”

“Thomas Stanley Holland. Do NOT follow that statement with ‘when we get back to the hotel’.”

He laughed so much that he leaned back and his eyes crinkled in the corners. “Not what I was going to say darling.” You’re still confused at his intentions, until he starts playing music from his phone and holds your arms out while you two are on the tip of the boat; keeping his hands on your hips.

“Only you could turn this into a Titanic moment. “I'm flying Jack. I'm flying.”

The moment had gotten better once you realized Tom had asked a crew member to take your picture, and now you have a new phone background and a new perspective.

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theliterateape · 3 years

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President Joe Biden’s Other First 100 Days List

by Joe Janes

Joe Biden has vowed to bring strength, compassion, and dignity back to the office of the president. He released an aggressive First 100 Days agenda.

But what are Joe’s personal goals for himself for each day. It’s just as ambitious and here it is…

1) Pick a fist fight with Gritty

2) Challenge interns to “Punch Ol’ Joe in the gut.” To show off my abs

3) Binge watch “The Wire” again

4) Finish that Sudoku puzzle I started in the bathroom in 1987

5) Teach Kamala Obama and my’s secret handshake

6) Shave the dogs

7) Play Hide ‘n’ Seek with Secret Service agents

8) Get my body upholstered in leather

9) Practice my uneven bars routine for the US Olympic Trials

10) Prevent an earthquake with my mind

11) Eat a bucket of atomic chicken wings

12) Wear my clothes backwards and walk backwards all day

13) Shoot boudoir pics for my calendar

14) Eat a bucket of ice cream without my hands

15) Wrestle a bear

16) Appoint bear to a cabinet position

17) Dress up like an old school fringe-y cowboy for Jill

18) Clean out that junk drawer that we didn’t clean out before moving

19) Ask staff for volunteers for cannibal experiment

20) Eat pizza without cheese

21) Read the Bible out loud in my God voice

22) Meet with generals and demand they let me tickle them

23) Eat sherbet out of a feedbag

24) Pass executive order that sherbet be officially spelled sherbert

25) Watch all of Jim Verney’s movies simultaneously

26) Stand at Whitehouse window, look deep in thought, then suddenly jump up and click my heels and shout “Eureka!”

27) Hangout around the monuments busking with my harmonica

28) Knit a cozy for my Camaro

29) Learn to speak Portuguese

30) Sniff Hair Day

31) Kill a whale with my bare hands

32) Learn a magic trick

33) Finally put all those pennies into penny rolls

34) Tippy Toe Day

35) Build a life-size Play-Doh statue of Sacagawea

36) Make Canada a state

37) Announce that I will be riding a motorcycle when I enter the senate chambers to give the State of the Union Address

38) Hang out with the youngsters at the Senior Center

39) See what happens when I eat rope

40) Lead a hot yoga class in the ballroom

41) Put a dozen foosball tables on that tennis court

42) Dig up that bland rose garden and put in some corn and some of that purple cabbage stuff Jill likes

43) Teach Lady Gaga my signature moves

44) Go parasailing over the Potomac

45) Challenge Mitch McConnell to a duel

46) Be dropped naked in the middle of Wyoming to survive on my own for the day

47) Paint like Bob Ross

48) Hire tuba player to follow me around all day

49) Make my own oatmeal

50) Issue executive order to Hollywood that end credits can’t be any longer than three minutes and to let people know if there’s a mid or end credits scene

51) Set up confetti canon in Lincoln’s lap at memorial

52) Be taller

53) Make “Speak Like A Pirate Day” a national holiday with banks and government offices closed

54) Learn to cook blowfish

55) Eat cheese out of my closed fists

56) Offer free hand car washes to White House tourists

57) Go to the homeless shelter with my “Free Hugs” sign

58) Shave the dogs again

59) Marzipan is not a dog breed – learn it for good

60) Break the Guinness World Record for largest bubble blown with gum

61) Climb Mount Rushmore in a yellow jumpsuit and dangle from Teddy Roosevelt’s nose

62) Put my face on a coin but make it so it winks at you

63) Try to lick myself the way the dogs do

64) Host a cabinet poetry slam

65) Fuck it – Let’s go to Vegas! 46 on Red!

66) Make all the countries at Epcot Center US territories

67) Let’s try fried bull testicles

68) Walk through the park and only talk to pets, ignore their owners

69) Make a fluffy omelet

70) Rap Battle with Jimmy Carter

71) White House yard sale – There’s a lot of junk here

72) Make healthy snacks for supreme court justices

73) Try something new with Kombucha – olives?

74) Release the secret files on Bigfoot

75) Do a new vision board

76) Send Inauguration thank you notes – I’m so behind on this!

77) Make Girl Scouts a formal branch of the military

78) Replace Space Force with flying Girl Scouts

79) Take set of A-Team travel mugs to pawn shop

80) Work on tightrope routine – no net

81) Nominate Dolly Parton for sainthood

82) Get the dogs’ toys out from under the refrigerator

83) Do the dishes

84) Go see a play (not Ford Theater)

85) Buy a telescope

86) Read a trashy novel

87) Take Jill to one of those restaurants where they make the guacamole at your table but surprise her by taking it over and making the guac myself

88) Twister Day in the Oval Office

89) Walk around with blank video tape cassette and whisper to people, “I have the pee tape.”

90) Email all my tweets so far to Trump so he can enjoy them, too

91) Put up my blacklight posters

92) Pizza Roll Eating Contest on the South Lawn

93) Dance a jig

94) See if I can fit my fist in my mouth

95) Everyone gets a dog

96) Hook accordion up to the furnace to stoke the embers

97) Pitch idea for solar-powered bomb rocket catapult to ACME

98) Dress up like old-timey crook and try to walk by security

99) Wear a crown and eat mutton noisily

100) Free healthcare for all (JK!)

#President Joe Biden #Dr. Jill Biden #First 100 Days #comedy #satire

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kissablescars-blog1 · 5 years

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When tradition becomes a passion: Chef Peng S. Looi’s sophisticated cuisine with a native twist.

When thinking of Malaysia, a beautiful country surrounded by sea comes to mind and invites to think of probably the long planned summer vacation that hasn't happened so far. It is then, when I decided to take a vacation and make my way to meet someone who has left his mark in the culinary world: Chef Peng S.Looi. Malaysia being surrounded by countries such as Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia and Philippines which them itself having extensive fame when it comes to cuisines and creative tastes. Here, we meet a very interesting chef, who very excitedly and full of pride decided to share his journey with me from how he started ( the very bottom) to where he ended (the very top).

His name is Peng S. Looi (54), and was born in the city of Ipoh in Malaysia. It is one of the largest cities in the country and is the capital of the Perak State as well. It is very well known for its international and unique food culture, which incorporates elements from other continents as well as taste, such as Chinese, Malay and Indian cuisines. It is because of this interesting mix of tastes that helped him to gain his current award-winning restaurants, such as “ Asiatique” and “August Moon Chinese Bistro”. Two of Louisville’s premier restaurants.

“The bar at Asiatique”.

Entering one of his newly opened restaurant “Asiatique”, I was greeted by the Chef himself and after ordering our drinks he decided to open up and talk about himself and his past. Feeling that this would definitely be an adventure through time, I got as comfortable as possible in the high-end classy chairs and took out my always-ready notepad and pen, ready to take as much notes as possible and to carefully not miss any details.

When asked where he got his inspiration from, he stated: “I started cooking when I was very young. Helping my mother, my sister, and a lady my parents hired to help around the house”. From then on, I started to slowly develop new cooking skills by being able to manage the raw product ( chicken, fish etc.). Even though it was at home where I’ve encountered my first semi cooking experience and got familiar with the knives, it was time for me to leave and explore new cultures, and thus at the age of 17 I left Ipoh and aimed for my further education more in the west, “ He continued”.

Manchester, was his first stop, where he finished his high school. Once done, in 1981 he moved to the States to study Engineering in the University of Louisville J.B Speed School of Engineering. However, even though he was studying a different career path, he would not cease to dedicate his free time to cook not only for himself but also for his friends. He would create dishes to surprise them as well as show that he was a very capable Chef. It was then when he realized that engineering was not his passion, but cooking is, and so decided to drop engineering school. In August 1987, he and his partner Mimi Ha-Dabbagh decided to open a restaurant called “August Moon Chinese Bistro". The name itself created sensation as it was something that the population on Lexington Road had never experienced before. Its cuisines varied from goat cheese and crabmeat won tons with Asian salsa to hoisin duck with pickled root vegetables and Grand Marnier sauce. With dishes like this, it took no time for the restaurant to boom.

“Tea Eggs by Chef Peng S.Looi”.

One of the most interesting sentences, and probably one of the most important one, that he mentioned is that “People, specially Chefs, have a long journey. Some of them change career paths, and I am not any different. You have to follow your passions”. Peng Looi, following his own advice, adventured himself on a partnership with Pam Sembillo in 1994, to open another restaurant, called Asiatique. The name itself speaks of what the restaurants main cuisine would be. "The Asian touch in our dishes”. This restaurant was not only approved by the masses of people, but also was well recognized in the media such as “Louisville magazine” and “ Weekly LEO”. It was renounced by “The best upscale Casual” by prep magazine. Not to forget about “August Moon Chinese Bistro” which together with “Asiatique” have been mentioned in the American Automobile Tour Guide, Asian Restaurant News, Bon Appetit and Chef’s Magazine.

Together, with his honorable mentions in the different magazines, comes the Jefferson Evans award for “Best Chef of the year” in 2008. This marked an important step in his life, as Looi was the first Asian to receive such Award. He has been invited to the notoriously known James Beard House multiple times. Peng Looi, has had the chance to be the master Chef at World Gourmet Summits in Las Vegas and Dubai, UAE. He also appeared at the Epcot Food + Wine Festival in Disney, Houston’s Grand Food and Wine Affair, the Charleston Food and Wine Festival, the Boca Bacchanal in Boca Raton, and the San Diego Food and Wine Affair.

Even though he has had the vast experience and has gotten a lot of merits, Looi does not take it for granted, and works everyday a little harder to make sure that his dream continues. He stated that, how he managed to climb up the culinary ladder, has not been easy and that it takes certain skills to get there as well as it takes an even more set of skills to maintain that position. Throughout my conversation with the Chef, I found myself more and more drawn into his food and culinary art, to the point where I asked him if he could make a designer dish from scratch for my food blog. Thinking he would decline my request, I was surprised he agreed. I decided to give him a challenge in which I told him, that seafood was not a personal favorite of mine, and that since his cuisine is partially seafood based, he would manage to convince me to like it.

Watching him move around in the kitchen, was pure art and a show. The way he waltzed around the kitchen, picked up the utensils and ingredients, measured the spices... As said: “It was such a pleasure to watch”. After an hour or so, I found myself drooling to the exquisite aroma of spices and fish. When he brought the dish in, I was taken aback. I had never seen anything with such well presentation, decoration and definite looks. The red soup with spices floating around, the noodles floating inviting the eater to devour it as well as the soft fish and clams laying around the bowl. With such a good smell, it must taste even better I thought. I picked up the chopsticks he handed to me, and started eating. I was blown away into an adventure of different tastes and flavors. It seemed as if my taste buds, regained consciousness on its own and a new door to the tastes was opened. What I was unable to do before, I was able to do now. I felt the fish dissolve softly in my mouth, combining perfectly well with the noodles, seaweed and eggs. As a person that is not into seafood, this was my first experience where I knew that from now on, seafood would become my new favorite dish on my list. After I was done, I kindly thanked the Chef, who’s busy himself, had kindly given me his time to interview him.

“Seafood Noodle Soup”

Following my first encounter with Chef Looi, I not only learned a new dish and a new way of savoring food, but also the value of following a persons passion in life to reach to a desired goal. What made the Chefs recipes and restaurants famous was not only his imagination, that is limitless, but his support from his staff, to whom according to him were described as “ a big part of my success. I run a tight crew. They are motivated and well trained. It is not easy to maintain a consistent high quality, but we just try our best. At the end of the day, if you know you tried your best, you can sleep well.” With that last statement I couldn't have agreed more.

Having Chef Peng S. Looi’s success as an example, we can learn how following your dreams can only lead to bigger dreams and therefore to never give up on them, no matter how hard the road might be. Last but not the least, it’s a proven fact that, with the taste of different flavors and combinations in food, It can develop your senses and give you a tremendous pleasure. That being said, if you are in the United States of America, Go grab some “Seafood Noodle Soup” and "Pork Shank’ at Asiatique that is located at 1767 Bardstown Rd. Louisville, trust me, you will thank me later for the suggestion.

“Pork Shank”

#food #foodgasm #yummyfood #foodnews #foodblog #kissablescars #foodblogger #healthyfood #pork

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carmineri · 6 years

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Monthly Merchandise Review — September 2018

Unless you’re hiding under a rock somewhere, you’ve heard by now that Epcot’s International Food and Wine festival is in full swing. With it comes a whole slew of merchandise that can separate you from your money faster than one of the food booths. Here’s some of the merchandise for Food and Wine spotted on a recent trip to Epcot.

Figment has become the main mascot for Food and Wine (followed by Remy and Mickey), and everywhere you turn you will find something with him on it. Case in point, you’ve got this adorable shirt.

And if you go over to Art of Disney, you can see that Figment in the window as well!

I don’t wear aprons, but I almost bought this Figment one. I mean, really–who wouldn’t want to wear this!

Likewise for this Figment Tervis. I have no need for more Tervis cups, but this one is very, very tempting…

And same thing with this coaster set. Can you tell I just love One Little Spark?

Mickey also ends up on some of the merchandise, like this Tervis cup.

He also ends up on this coffee mug. It’s okay–I’m frequently disappointed with Disney coffee mugs, which are too heavy for my preference and often seem to have weird shapes/sizes for the handles. At least this one is decently large, however.

Likewise, I’m not often a fan of baseball caps offered by Disney. But, if you are, here’s one around the festival theme design.

I’m not sure I’d want to use this deep dish pie pan for pie–I’d worry that I’d scratch up the design on the inside. Maybe as a decor piece on a wall?

I’ll admit, this pepper mill is cute, and actually more useful than some of the items they have. Is it worth $25, though? (I don’t use much pepper, so that’s a no from me–what about you?)

If you need something to go with the pepper mill, you could always get one of the trash can salt shakers for this year.

Also on the cute and useful list are these measuring spoons. My big challenge is that my kitchen floors are tile, and I could see myself breaking them at the first use.

There were some nice wood serving items available. I could see this being used to hold crackers.

And this cutting board being used for a selection of cheeses.

Speaking of cheese, fans of Remy and Emile, I could see this on a shelf in a kitchen somewhere.

The official festival art has a very relaxed vibe to it. You can get it framed or just as a poster.

Non-character shirts are also available. This long-sleeve will probably be more popular when it isn’t blazing hot outside.

If you want a cool shirt that isn’t covered with characters, this one is actually pretty neat. The style on the front is okay, but….

…the miles to the different locations of some of the booths really jumped out at me as just plain cool.

And yes, there’s a spirit jersey for this event as well.

Along with Minnie ears.

If you’re more into the wine than the food part of the festival, you can buy a commemorative wineglass.

Or, possibly more useful, some wine stoppers.

A few years ago, Target had a Mickey collection with a black melamine bowl similar to this. It’s a great design for chips and a couple types of dip.

Every year, Disney puts out these little tasting plates that can help you carry around food and a beverage. I have to wonder, do many people use them? It may just be that I sneak in and out of Food and Wine early in the day, but I don’t think I’ve ever seen anyone using one.

For the Annual Passholders out there, don’t forget to stop by and pick up your magnet, and keep stopping back until you reach the threshold to get your cutting board. “Free” stuff is always nice. If you’re looking to spend some money to assert your Annual Passholder-ness, however, Disney has you covered. First up, a selection of Dooney bags.

Next, you’ve got pins and a Dooney-styled limited release MagicBand.

There’s also special Food and Wine Annual Passholder Pandora charms.

And don’t forget your annual passholder t-shirt. I’m on a t-shirt buying hiatus, but this one gets close to breaking my resolve!

Out of all the passholder items, I really liked seeing the glass pitcher. It’s something different, and that’s welcome to me.

One final item that caught my eye. Out of all the items that I saw, this one I think will be the sleeper hit–if you’re a beer drinker, this really is a neat way to make some wall art to show your personal style.

According to signs in the festival center, more AP merchandise will be released throughout the festival, so there’s a possibility that other items will be added as well.

Until then, did you see any items that are on your must-buy list, or are you just there for the food (and drink)? Let me know in the comments.

The post Monthly Merchandise Review — September 2018 appeared first on TouringPlans.com Blog.

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#TouringPlans.com Blog

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chipandco · 6 years

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Have you ever thought of enjoying a Family Fun Day at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival? Start with amazing kid-approved food with non-alcoholic beverages, Remy’s Hide and Squeak Game around the World Showcase, Festival Play Area and a Chocolate Display. Be sure to enjoy a visit to the glowing Light Lab before closing out your family adventure day with a child-friendly Eat To The Beat Concert and the Disney Du Jour Dance Party.

First, we are loving the addition of the Kid-Approved Menu items icon. Look for the adorable Smiley Strawberry next to items listed on the menu boards. For example, the Light Lab Flavor Experiments Menu and the Creme Brulee on the France Menu Board as shown above. Our Little One’s favorite food of the day was the original Classic Poutine.

Hence, the adults in your party may be searching for something a bit more adventurous. How about some added flavor with the Beef Brisket Poutine, Warm Chocolate Pudding, or Croissant Aux Escargots with La Passion Martini Slush? Personally, our favorite bites of Family Fun Day were the Grilled Lamb Chop, the Spice-Crusted Verlasso Salmon and the Lump Crab Cake. Additionally, best sips were the non-alcoholic Frozen Apple Pie and the Tropical Mimosa.

Second, be sure to take on the challenge of Remy’s Ratoutille Hide and Squeak game around the World Showcase. To begin, help Remy find all the necessary ingredients to complete his most famous dish. You will need to stop at each country to determine what sticker to select for that country. Upon completion, take your map to a redemption location to pick up your prize. I mean, what child doesn’t love the opportunity to pick their own prize?

Third, you may wish to take your young ones over to the Family Play Zone. You will find this fun and interactive play area behind Mouse Gear. Also, there are a few Adirondack chairs available for seating as your youngsters engage in play and discovery.

Fourth, the Chocolate Display at the Festival Welcome Center in the “From Bean To The Bar” area is sure to be a hit with the entire family. This year’s hand-crafted chocolate displays feature Toy Story Land, The Headless Horseman and Coco to name a few.

Next, no Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Family Fun Day experience is complete without the Light Lab. This glowing fluorescent room is a great place to take fun photos. Also, be sure to observe the lab technicians as they create some amazing beverage concoctions. The Wall Boards contain interesting facts about our senses, thus making this a cool learning experience as well.

Lastly, be sure to close out your Family Fun Day with the Eat To The Beat Concert Series and the Disney Du Jour Dance Party. Child-friendly music and Disney Dancing are sure to wrap up your day in a big way.

We, at Chip and Company, are a very family-oriented group. Being that this was a family outing, we decided to take Flat Chip on his very first adventure. He enjoyed his first ride on the monorail, the perfectly sized Flat-Chip-Friendly Food & Wine keepsake plate and his favorite Cheddar Cheese and Bacon Soup from the Canada Outdoor Kitchen. Flat Chip took time to hydrate with the Phosphorescent Phlight from the Light Lab. He then decided to take a nap on a bench! A Fan noticed him and woke him up to have her photo taken with him. Certainly, Flat Chip had a fabulous First Adventure Day.

In conclusion, we highly recommend planning a Family Fun Day at Epcot’s International Food & Wine Festival. From food, beverages and games, to learning opportunities, concerts and dance parties the experience is sure to build lifetime memories.

We wish to send a special thank you to the folks at Disney for inviting us to attend Family Media Day. The opportunity to experience the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival together, as a family, is greatly appreciated.

Are you planning a Family Fun Day visit to the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival? Please leave your comments in the box below.

Family Fun Day Visit Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Have you ever thought of enjoying a Family Fun Day at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival…

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stay-berryful · 7 years

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Why I’m happy I got fired from Chipotle

I’ve been working for Chipotle for almost 2 years now (it would’ve been two years on May 5). I’ve moved three stores not because I’m a bad person, but because at my first store my manager would only give me 5 hours a week and never properly trained me on anything. You’d think that after 2 years, I wouldn’t struggle with opening Salsa or Cash, but I had never opened for Chipotle so it was a foreign concept for me. The second store I worked at made me feel empowered; I loved the crew, my manager, my customers. The store was a mess, let’s be real, but our crew was a dysfunctional, beautiful mess and that’s why I loved it. The only reason why I had to transfer to the one where I was at now, in Oviedo, Florida was because I go to UCF.

I need to give some backstory. Lately, I’ve been struggling with minor depression and distorted body image. I’ve been struggling with money, being so far away from home, school and trying to find internships that were as far away from chipotle as possible. That being said, these last few weeks I’ve been really struggling because my ex-boyfriend decided to join the Army one month after he visited Florida and left, leaving us both broken. He went to therapy, dude. We cried in Epcot. I’m still broken. Lately, I’ve been letting my personal life interfere with my work and professional life. I’m tired all the time, I’m cranky and irritable-- it is my fault, but like, I really don’t know how to fix it. I’ve just become numb to everything, tbh.

Now, going forward, in the last two weeks, I’ve worked almost 70 hours, written five papers, dealt with finals and have a flight at 7 am. Needless to say, I am LITERALLY PHYSICALLY AND MENTALLY exhausted. I’ve pulled 3 all-nighters, my car got towed, my room is as messy as my brain is. I haven’t been focused because I haven’t had time to rest. And I know that’s what impacted the termination of a company in which I have slaved over for the last two years with little to no training in some areas.

I knew something bad was going to happen five days ago when this kid whom I was always in general friendly with started giving me attitude. At first, I figured he was joking around because like, that’s what we do. We’re sarcastic as fuck. It’s just who we are, ya know? It was when he started saying that I wasn’t doing my job when I realized that it wasn’t just joking around (This was the day before my 15-page paper was due on FINALS WEEK, so like honestly my brain wasn’t in the right place.) I noticed something bad when my manager and my coworker were talking shit about me in the walk in and called me, word for word “Fucking Stupid.” I noticed it when my manager was on expo today and kept /hitting/ me if I put too much cheese even when a customer asked for extra cheese. I noticed it when my manager called me his greatest challenge and when they made me clean the floor with a toothbrush. Never in all my days have I been treated in this way and it crushed me that I was stuck for 30 hours a week to deal with this type of treatment. Some might say that it’s the job; it’s character building; it’s work. But is it? Is it work when your manager tells you to your face that you’re incompetent and that you’re not improving in the way they expect you to? Is it work when while they’re firing you that they rub it in your face that nobody likes working with you? Is it work when you ask for fewer hours because you’re a student first and you’re only getting paid 11 dollars an hour to roll burritos for people who don’t even know the difference between sour cream and Greek yogurt? Is it worth it? Well, at the time it was.

While I was talking to my mom today, I felt as though I had a weight lifted off my shoulders. I realized that the only thing I regretted was not taking every dollar in the tip jar and walking the fuck out. But it also made me sad knowing that the next day, some people were going to jump for joy that I was no longer with them. And that sucks. It’s not exactly a mood booster, ya dig? I’m going home tomorrow. I can breathe again. I can pay attention in class without worrying about how I’ll get to work or when I’ll get to work. I can do so much now, and that’s what makes me feel better. Maybe it was just my store and their obsession with becoming the best restaurant in the country, with managers who never corrected what you did wrong and crew members who believed that they were managers and could tell you whatever the fuck they thought was wrong. Iduno. But I’m glad I’m no longer with them.

#chipotle

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notclub33 · 8 months

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The Cheesiest Thing You Can Do at EPCOT

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#Cynical Disney #Cynics on Disney #Disney dining #Emile&039;s Fromage Montage #Epcot #Epcot Cheese Challenge #Food & Wine Festival #walt disney world #Youtube

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thedisneychef · 1 year

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Victoria and Albert's Mushroom and Roasted Garlic Soup Recipe

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c0rnelia-street · 7 years

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Jan. 15, 2017

•Sydney drove us to Hollywood and we listened to One Direction the whole way. •When we parked, we started discussing all the construction and conspiracy theories related to the parks. I love having conversations like those. •We took the boat to Epcot and talked about DVC. DVC came up periodically throughout the day and at this point I'm pretty sure I sold Sydney. •The Festival of the Arts was going on at Epcot and as part of it there was a paint by numbers exhibit. The cool part is that the canvas we helped paint is a replica of a mural in Future World North, so it was kind of emotional. •Our cashier at Electric Umbrella was hella adorable. He was British and he was having an accent challenge with the guest in front of me (who was also British). She asked him to do an American accent and when he did it he mentioned that he didn't understand why we elected Trump as our president. Another guest was being rude and asking him to "hurry it along" to which he replied by rolling his eyes and saying "wouldn't want you to miss your fastpass". And he kept calling Sydney and I lovely and let get a kids meal even though I'm not 9, so he's a keeper. •The upstairs of Electric Umbrella was open, so we ate there. I hadn't been up there since I was like 12 and it made me very nostalgic. •We walked through multiple gift shops and just fangirled over mercy together. •We went to the pastry shop in France, which I'd never been to. I got a macaron and chocolate mousse that was to die for. •We saw this awesome painting of golden oak and it had hidden Disney objects in it (82 of them to be exact) so we spent time trying to find them all. •We also took a picture of a Kylo/Rey painting and use Snapchat stickers to put Angela's face over Rey. •We watched the Trials of the Temple show again. A cute little girl padawan literally laughed in Darth Vader's face and stuck her tongue out at Kylo Ren. It was magical. •Yoda's voice came over the loud speaker and the Jedi on stage made the most incredibly hilarious face. •STAR TOURS. •I beat Sydney on Toy Story Mania. •We went to get snacks before grabbing our spot for fireworks. I ordered a pretzel without cheese and the CM told me I had to get the cheese with it because there wasn't a key to ring it out otherwise. I was nice enough about it and said it was fine, but I was disappointed because I get it without cheese all the time. She could tell I was disappointed and gave me a free frozen lemonade. I love cast members. •A Galactic Spectacular is just so good.

#reasons to smile #2017

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talkdisney · 4 years

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Recipe Macaroni and Cheese with Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs Cheese topped with Herbed Panko from 2020 Taste of EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival

With the 2020 Taste of EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival in full swing, I thought I would share some of my favorite dishes from this year’s festival marketplaces! This festival celebrates the best of global food and drink across six continents with authentic ingredients, cooking techniques, and presentations so it was a challenge to narrow them down to just a handful of top tastes.

Macaro…

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vacationsoup · 6 years

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New Post has been published on https://vacationsoup.com/orlando-in-october/

Kissimmee & Orlando in October - Trick or Treat?

We're well into Fall fun and festivities here in Kissimmee and Orlando in October. There are some amazing reasons to visit in the Fall.

Enjoy Hot Sunny Days and Balmy Warm Nights While many of you will soon be thinking about dusting off those thick winter jackets, here in Florida we only have one wardrobe. Flip flops optional. Sunscreen essential.

Fall is one of our favorite times of the year. The extreme highs and humidity of the summer months are fading and the temps average a very pleasant low 80 degrees. 12 hours of sunshine. Bliss!

Enjoy Halloween like Nowhere Else Orlando in October is a spooky time of year full of tricks, treats, ghouls and ghosts. We've included the major Halloween events below, but do check our Orlando Halloween Guide for full details everything happening in the Halloween Vacation Capital.

So here's What's on around Kissimmee & Orlando in October

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival

Take your taste buds on a trip around the world throughout October. There will be 35 individual market places offering bite size snacks, desserts and beverages during the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival.

This hugely popular culinary extravaganza includes a host of events: Cheese Seminars; Beverage Seminars; Mix It, Make It, Celebrate It; Culinary Demonstrations; Celebrity Chefs; The Chocolate Experience; tasting events; food and beverage pairings and a host of add-on packages.

Join thousands of foodie fans to savor unique food and wines from around the world.

The icing on the cake? The Eat to the Beat concert series showcasing over 20 chart topping bands.

When: August 30th 2018 through November 12th 2018 Where: 200 Epcot Center Dr, Orlando, FL 32821 Web: Epcot International Food & Wine Festival

Mickeys Not So Scary Halloween Party

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party is one of the most popular events for Orlando in October. MNSSHP brings lots of fun for all ages, special parades, awesome fireworks and plenty of trick or treats on select dates throughout October.

When: October 2, 4, 5, 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30, 31 2018 Where: Disney's Magic Kingdom Web: Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party

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Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando

Orlando in October is home to one of the Nations premier Halloween events. Unlike Mickey's party at Magic Kingdom or Spooktacular at Seaworld, Universal Orlando's Halloween Horror Nights are definitely not for the faint hearted. The streets in the evenings transform into a monsters paradise ready to create heart pounding horrors featuring Haunted Houses, Scare Zones and live shows.

When: October: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 31 - November: 1, 2, 3 2018 Where: Universal Studios Orlando, 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819 Web: Halloween Horror Nights

SeaWorld Spooktacular

Orlando in October brings us this super kid-friendly Halloween event. SeaWorld Spooktacular is perfect for the entire family to have some trick and treating fun.

The little ones will love this underwater "fantasea" with bright and colorful whimsical creatures, trick or treating, Penelope's Garden Party, Halloween Dance Party and Sesame Streets Countdown to Halloween.

When: Weekends through October 28th 2018 Where: SeaWorld Orlando Web: SeaWorld Spooktacular

Howl-O-Scream at Busch Gardens

Continuing with the more adult theme, Howl-O-Scream is Tampa Bay's premier Halloween event. Select nights through October 30, 2017 with tormenting surprises around every corner and unexpected scares.

The streets will be swarming with hundreds of roaming creatures, making escape nearly impossible. A chilling live show and the chance to challenge Florida's top thrill rides in the dark will keep the screams coming all night.

When: October, 5, 6, 7, 11, 12, 13, 14, 18, 19, 20, 21, 25, 26, 27 and 28 2018. Where: Busch Gardens, 10165 McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612 Web: Halloween at Busch Gardens

Brick or Treat LegoLand Florida

A perfect Trick or Treat for the younger kids with Brick or Treat at LegoLand.

Lots of activities including LEGO ghost building, Scavenger Hunt, Costume Contest, Meet & Greet with LEGO characters, a 13 foot Vampyer Hearse and a fireworks finale. All included with the entry ticket.

When: October 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28, 31 2018 Where: LEGOLand Florida, Legoland Way, Winter Haven, FL Web: Legoland Florida

The Haunt at Old Town

Explore the areas only permenant haunted house, Mortem Manor along with haunted attractions and scare zones. The Haunt at Old Town is held on select nights below.

When: October 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 & 31 November 1, 2, 3 2018 Where: Old Town Kissimmee - 5770 West Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway, Kissimmee Web: The Haunt at Old Town

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Viva Osceola

Osceola County's premier Latin festival is held on October 6th. This annual event features entertainment, food, fun and games for the whole family, Viva Osceola!

When: October 6th 2018 11am to 6pm Where: Kissimmee Lake Front Park, 201 Lakeview Dr, Kissimmee, FL 34741 Web: Kissimmee/Osceola Chamber of Commerce

Vett Fest

In honor of the Corvette, Old Town will once again host VetteFest on Saturday, October 6, 2018. This special car event now in its 13th year welcomes Corvettes, classic and new, to spend the day showing off their muscle power and shine.

We welcome everyone to this unique and fun event!

When: October 6th 2018 registration: 10am | Corvette Cruise 3pm Where: Old Town Kissimmee, 5770 W Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy Kissimmee, FL 34746 Web: Old Town Kissimmee

Blocktober Fest

Orlando in October brings a treat for visitors aged 21 and up. Blocktober Fest will transform Wall St. Plaza into the ultimate German party with German drinks, specialty German food and live Oompah music.Beer: From 7-10pm you can get unlimited Sam Adams Oktoberfest and your own German stein for just $20. Then enjoy $3 Sam Adams Oktoberfest beer all night. Food: German food specials in the restaurants served until 11pm Music: The Jimmy and Eckhart German Oktoberfest Show will be appearing live on stage from 11.30pm.

When: October 6th 2018 Where: Wall Street Plaza, Orlando Web: Blocktober Fest - Wall Street Plaza

Silver Spurs Bulls 'n Barrels Rodeo

The second annual halloween rodeo combines two of the most popular rodeo events, bull riding and barrel racing. Kids can dress up in their costumes and trick or treat in the arena's concourse.

Entrance for adults is $15 and children under 10 are free. Groupon has an offer for tickets at $9.

When: October 6th 2018 at 7.30pm Where: Silver Spurs Rodeo, Kissimmee FL 34744 Web: Silver Spurs Rodeo or Groupon Offer

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What's On at Island Grove

Did you know we have a winery right in the heart of Kissimmee? Island Grove Wine Company is a winery and microbrewery serving award-winning fruit wines. The bistro offers freshly made snacks and small bites and the coffee shop offers responsibly sourced coffee. And if you're staying at our 5 bedroom home, Island Grove is within walking distance! It's just a few minutes drive from our other homes.

October 10th - Wine & Cheese Paring - 5-7pm. Limited seating, call ahead for reservations. $20 per head.

October 17th - Big Bold Red - as the Holiday season approaches, Sommelier Deanna Huber explores the world of big, bold red wines- 4pm, 5pm, and 6pm $15 Per Person. Reservations Required.

October 27th - Halloween Party - games, giveaways, food and drinks. A spooky special will be announced too.

Where: Islands Grove at Formosa Gardens, 3011 Formosa Gardens Blvd Kissimmee, FL 34747 Reservations: 407-507-9888 ext.5 Web: Island Grove Wine Company

Come Out With Pride Festival

Orlando in October is home to Come Out With Pride - a multi-day experience beginning with evening events on October 8th, and the main event being a day-long festival on Saturday October 13th 2018.

October 8th: 5K Drag Race

October 9th: Reel Pride Film Screening

October 10th: House of Pride - The Edge Reunion

October 11th: Weekend Launch Party

October 12th: Block Party

October 13th 12-3pm: OIC Big Gay Brunch

October 13th 4pm: Come Out With Pride Festival

October 13th 9.30pm-3am: Pride After Party

October 14th: Recovery Brunch

Come Out with Pride Festival attracts over 150,000 visitors with a massive parade lining the streets of downtown Orlando. There's a marketplace filled with vendors from and supporting the LGBTQ+ community as well as the most impressive entertainment and fireworks display.

Spectators line the streets around Lake Eola to watch the many organizations, businesses and individuals supporting the LGBTQ community. With such a diverse array of marchers and floats, this is The Most Colorful Parade in Orlando!

When: October 8th-13th 2018 Where: Lake Eola, Downtown Orlando Web: Come Out With Pride

BBQ and Blues Festival

Five of the nation's best BBQ teams compete for the top prize in this event at Lakeridge Winery, Clermont. As well as delicious BBQ, guests can listen to a free concert of Blues music on the outdoor stage. Or go inside to the Wine and Cheese Bar for solo acts. Arts and crafts vendors have plenty to offer and beers, soft drinks and ice cream are also available alongside the wines of the Lakeridge Winery. Admission is $10.00. Children under 12 free. A portion of the proceeds go to support the South Lake Chamber of Commerce

When: October 12th and 13th, 10.00am - 8.00pm and October 14th, 11.00am - 5.00pm Where: 19239 US-27, Clermont, FL 34715 Web: BBQ & Blues Festival

Winter Park Autumn Art Festival

Orlando in October brings us this fan favorite art extravaganza. The organizers expect more than 40,000 visitors for this annual event where local artists display their exceptional wares.

Food is supplied by local restaurants and live entertainment keeps adults happy. Workshops for children will keep them occupied and, hopefully, educated.

When: October 13th and 14th 2018 Where: Central Park, Winter Park, FL 32789 Web: Winter Park Autumn Art Festival

IMMERSE

Artists break past the stage and invite you into their performances at IMMERSE. Over 1000 diverse artists immerse you in interactive shows, art installations and inspiring live performances.

4 IMMERSE Ticket options are available:

The IMMERSE Experience Basic Ticket

The Full Experience Plus Ticket

The VIP Experience Ticket

The Dinner Party Project Experience

When: October 19th-20th 2018 Where: Downtown Orlando Address: Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32801 Web: Immerse

Zoo Boo Bash

This might just be the wildest Halloween Orlando event you'll visit! This not-too-scary event is perfect for the young and old alike. Kids are invited to bring goody bags and wear costumes for trick or treat stations. There's even a face painter for those feeling a little under-dressed.

No additional ticket needed, this event is included with the entry fee.

When: October 20th 2018, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM Where: Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, 3755 U.S. 17, Sanford, FL 32771 Web: Zoo Boo Bash

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Fall Art & Craft Fair, Cocoa

The beautiful, historic town of Cocoa, on Florida's Space Coast, plays host to 200 vendors with their arts and crafts. A kid's zone will keep the youngsters happy and live music will entertain the adults. food and beverages are available and it is free to enter.

When: October 20th and 21st from 10.00am - 5.00pm. Where: Historic Cocoa Village, FL 32922 Web: Fall Art & Craft Fair

BOO! on Broadway

Take your little ghosts and goblins to Main Street in Downtown Kissimmee for the annual BOO! on Broadway. Great fun for all the family.

When: October 26th 2018 - 6-9pm Where: Kissimmee Main Street Web: BOO! on Broadway

Twilight Ghost Tour of Downtown Kissimmee

The Osceola County Historical Society are presenting this twilight Ghost Tour of Downtown Kissimmee. 45 haunting minutes for only $10 adults, $5 children (12 and under).

Scheduled Tour Times:

Tour 1 (5:45PM - 6:30PM)

Tour 2 (6:00PM - 6:45PM)

Tour 3 (6:15PM - 7:00PM)

Tour 4 (6:30PM - 7:15PM)

Tour 5 (6:45PM - 7:30PM)

When: October 26th 2018

When: October 26th 2018 Where: Downtown Kissimmee Web: Ghost Tours

Spooky Empire

The Nations largest horror convention comes to Orlando in October, with celebrity guests including Richard Dreyfuss, John Cusack and Joan Cusack.

Visitors will enjoy celebrity autographs, a tattoo festival, film festival, zombie walk, kid zone, costume contest, seminars, live entertainment.

When: October 26th-28th 2018 Where: Caribe Royale Orlando, 8101 World Center Dr, Orlando, FL 32821 Web: Spooky Empire

Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic

Top chefs, a delicious selection of food and beverages, wine tasting, pairing experiences, seminar instructors........the list is endless. Two days of self indulgence at the 9th annual event. What's not to like?

When: October, 26th and 27th, 2018 Where: Swan and Dolphin Hotels, Walt Disney World Web: Swan & Dolphin Food & Wine Classic

Clermont Harvest Festival

Head over to Historic Downtown Clermont for a good old fashioned family harvest festival full of fun and festive spirit.

There will be pumpkin painting, kids zone, games, costume parade, petting farm and hay rides, traditional games such as bean bag toss.

Adults will enjoy over 100 craft vendors showcasing homemade and handmade goods, one of a kind collectables and gifts. Food trucks will be available for snacks and the Downtown restaurants will all be open. And decorated!

When: October 27th 2018 from 10am Where: Montrose Street, between 7th and 8th, Clermont Web: Clermont Downtown Partnership

Central Florida Veg-Fest

You don't need to be a vegetarian to enjoy one of the biggest and longest running veg festivals in the world. It's a smoke-free, alcohol-free family fun day showcasing a diverse range of vegetarian and vegan cuisines. Check out new products, learn healthy living alternatives and food prep demos. There's a kids zone, artists corner, live music, animal corner and drum circle.

When: October 27th 2018 10am to 6pm Where: Orlando Festival Park, 2911 E. Robinson Street, Orlando, FL 32803 Web: Central Florida Veg-Fest

Halloween Hustle 5K

This Halloween themed fun run is an event for all ages organised by the Junior League . The Halloween Hustle 5K race to end childhood hunger includes a 5k walk/run, kid's fun run, trick or treating, food-trucks and live musice. A great family day for all ages from 5.30pm to 8.30pm

When: Thursday October 27th 2018 Where: Bill Frederick Park at Turkey Lake, 3401 S Hiawassee Rd, Orlando, FL 32835 Web: Halloween Hustle 5k

Mount Dora Craft Fair

The 34th Mount Dora Craft Fair expects to receive over 100,000 visitors to view or buy the offerings of more than 400 gifted artists and crafters. Food and entertainment is also supplied over the two days in this delightful little town.

When: October 27th and 28th 2018 Where: Mount Dora, FL 32757 Web: Mount Dora Craft Fair

There are lots of Halloween events in Orlando and Kissimmee, be sure to check our Halloween Guide too:

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#Brick or Treat #Events in October #Halloween #HHN27 #Howl-O-Scream #Lights on Jeater Bend #MNSSHP #Orlando Events

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itstoughstartingover · 6 years

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Unsettling dreams and other thoughts

8/1/18

I hate that I still dream about Evan. Last night, he and his brother showed up briefly shortly before I woke up. There was a boxing lesson, we were going to go to EPCOT, and Molly had talked him into getting an earring. The thing is, although I was aware of her and her influence on him, I’m fairly certain there was still that underlying understanding of us being together. Maybe it’s because Glenwood called about Wilson; I’m guessing that’s why I’ve slipped and almost called Riley Wilson twice today. Since I decided to bring Riley home, I’ve thought about Evan less. I miss Wilson, but I’m happy to have given a home to a sweet dog who needed it. He’s my new family and my new focus, both of which I needed. I don’t know if Evan or Wilson will ever leave my subconscience. Evan was central to my life on and off for over 10 years, and Wilson became my baby. They were my family - I can’t discount that. It hurts that Evan has changed so much that I had to let them both go, but I know I did the right thing, especially since the shelter I rescued Riley from thanked me for giving him a home. He deserves a good life filled with love, and I’m believing more and more that I can give him that.

I’m getting tired of the low FODMAP diet. Yes I generally feel physically better, but I’m still physically exhausted and it’s so much harder to eat. I’m beginning to feel really deprived, which is why I outright broke it Saturday night. I’ve been doing this for just shy of 2 months now so I’m used to it, but I think that’s part of why it’s becoming more of a burden. I’m more aware of the physiological effects alcohol has on my body when it’s not mixed with tons of bread and cheese, my body is responding better to slips, and I feel more attuned to how my body reacts now. I know I need more rest, but when I’m stressed the exercise helps keep my anxiety at bay. I like that I can talk openly with Megan about all of this now, and none of it feels like I’m victimizing or seeking validation. I’m matter-of-fact about the exercise bulimia and how the low FODMAP is beginning to feel more restrictive and challenging. I just emailed Debbie to let her know how I’m feeling.

I do feel like having Riley is changing things for me, and he and I will continue to adjust to each other. It’s been less than a week and we have a long way to go. I needed someone to come in and disrupt my perfectly orderly life to remind me that shit happens (literally, and thank goodness for good stain remover and deodorizer). It makes sense that I’ll still think about Evan, and I need to keep processing those thoughts and feelings. The good thing now is that I can keep my distance more and not have to reach out to him, and more importantly, he’s lost his control over me. I’m so glad I took back my key. I also realize I have unresolved feelings about Michael and Mike and Megan that I need to process and address. Riley keeps me home more so I rest and get down time, which I need. As much as I like to always be busy, it’ll be nice to not just relax because I’m crashing and burning. True, he adds stress to my life, but I think he’s worth it. I can’t focus on a future with Adam because I don’t know if we have one. I can see him getting more attached when we’re together and it seems like he’s falling more when we talk, but I’m trying to avoid doing the same. As crazy as I am about him, I don’t trust him enough to allow myself to be vulnerable. Everything about being with him feels natural and right (to use his words from when we laid on the ground looking at the stars), but his hesitance requires that I keep mine in tact. If he wanted to be together, I would, but I think I’d still be wary for a while. How could I know he wouldn’t change his mind? With Riley in my life and Canterbury rehearsals starting on Sunday, I have plenty in my personal life to distract me, not to mention still wanting to see my friends when I can. It’s all about balance. I feel much more stable and clear-headed when it comes to Adam now, and the fact that Evan still shows up in my dreams and I still think about Mike and Michael means I still have more work to do on my own first. I like knowing that I’m ready to put in the time to do the work and that I want to refocus my priorities away from romance.

Actually, right now I just want to sleep, preferably without Evan injecting himself back into my mind.

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news-mashable-yahoopartner-blog · 6 years

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These are the best 24 dishes at The Cheesecake Factory

As one of the country's leading Cheesecake Factory experts, I know what it's like to navigate the restaurant's the extensive menu.

It's a challenge for the everyday consumer to choose the right dish among more than 250 menu items. Most Americans can't choose between the Factory's famed Four Cheese Pasta and Fettuccine Alfredo. Who's to blame them? I have dedicated my life to eating creamy poison from mall restaurants, I can't expect the average, healthy consumer to do the same.

If you're an anxious Cheesecake Factory customer, let me help you.

SEE ALSO: Mom's viral rant about cheesecakes is too relatable

Below are the top Cheesecake Factory items that should be on everyone's bucket list. This list is a result of years of culinary research and taste-testing. Please consider this entire ranking to be 100 percent accurate and true.

Thank you for your support in advance.

24. Four Cheese Pasta

The Factory's Four Cheese Pasta greatest strength is also its greatest weakness: it has so many damn cheeses. Still, mozzarella, ricotta, parmesan, and Romano are classic middle American favorites, and this pasta is all the better for it. Celebrate!

23. Chocolate, Strawberry, and Vanilla Milkshake

The Cheesecake Factory doesn't get nearly enough attention for their milkshakes, and it's understandable. It's not like they're bursting with originality. But what they lack in creativity they more than make up for in robust flavor: imagine your favorite fat combined with your favorite sweet.

22. Cajun Jambalaya Pasta

Look! Real flavor at a mall restaurant!

Image: cheesecake factory

Cajun Jambalaya Pasta frequently tops the list of Cheesecake Factory favorites. Sure, it sounds like something you can get at Epcot, but it has flavor, which is more than you can say of any restaurant attached to a mall.

21. Chicken Pot Stickers

It's almost always a bad idea when an all-purpose chain restaurant tries to go "international." Once you accept, however, that these chicken pot stickers aren't even close to anything authentic, you begin to accept them for what they are — fatty pieces of goodness.

20 Buffalo Wings

Buffalo wings are one of those things chain restaurants almost always do better than upscale. It's a fact soon to be proven by science. Cheesecake Factory is particularly adept at the classic buffalo wing, providing a comfortable, suburban level of spice.

19. Reese's Peanut Butter Chocolate Cheesecake

Brand excellence

Image: cheesecake factory

Reese's makes everything better including cheesecake. Peanut butter and cheese aren't a combo I'd try anytime, but if there's one chain I trust to execute it correctly, it's Cheesecake Factory. No chain is better at producing delightful low-brow creations with a mid-range level of skill.

18. Almond-crusted Salmon Salad

One of the healthier options on the Cheesecake Factory menu, and strangely not disgusting, is the salmon salad. Plus, you can't go wrong with anything crusted — period. I typically go for cheese-encrusted items, but for those of us who want to be healthy and still a little gross, this is your best shot.

17. Shepherd's Pie

I'm a vegepreferian, so it's been a long time since I've had meat. Still, I sometimes dream of meat pies at night, especially those crafted by the heroes of Cheesecake Factory. You also can't go wrong with a mashed potato parmesan cheese crust.

16. Chicken Parmesan

Breaded chicken with cheese is an Italian-American gift to the world. I wish more contemporary restaurant didn't snub the dish. Thanks to Cheesecake Factory for standing up for what's right and fatty and including this on their menu.

15. Fish Tacos

Beer-battered fish and avocado is always the correct choice. I wish Cheesecake Factory accepted their middle American roots and embraced the hard shell. Still, there's a lot of stigma against hard shells, and I'm not going to judge the chain for being unprepared to embrace them.

14. Chicken Bellaggio

The Chicken Bellagio is one of the more popular Cheesecake Factory dishes, and it's easy to see why. It combines chicken, slathered in a parmesan cream sauce, with prosciutto and a bunch of boring greens not worth mentioning. Hell, they should probably call rename this place the Chicken Factory.

13. Mashed Potatoes

Not everyone can do mashed potatoes, even though everyone thinks they can. The Cheesecake Factory gets all of the points for their mashed potato side. It's creamy and rich and wildly buttery, which is all it takes to rise to mashed potato excellence.

12. Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake

Cookie dough belongs everywhere, and especially in my mouth. Kudos to Cheesecake Factory for picking up on this '00s fad and making it last. The Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough is an underrated dessert speciality.

11. Chris' Outrageous Cheesecake

Whoever this dude Chris is, I need to meet him.

Image: cheesecake factory

Chris' Outrageous Cheesecake has everything that makes a cheesecake great: coconut, chocolate brownie, moist chocolate cake, and cheesecake. I really hope you open your heart to this cheesecake. Just because it's not one of the most popular cheesecakes on the menu doesn't mean it doesn't have worth.

10. Eggplant Parmesan

I applaud the Cheesecake Factory for making a chain restaurant vegetarian dish that doesn't make me want to vom. The Factory's parm is way less rubbery than most restaurant-made eggplant parms. And while it lacks the glitz and glamor of the chicken parm, it makes up for it in healthfulness (sort of) and style.

9. Chicken Taquitos

I'm not fully sure what this is, but I love it

Image: cheesecake factory

These taquitos are adorable. And sure, they don't resemble anything on a traditional Mexican menu. But that's not why I eat the taquitos — I eat them because they're zesty and crunchy and don't crumble all over my clothes.

8. Crispy Fried Cheese

I feel awkward about putting the fried cheese this far up on the ranking, because fried cheese is always good. Nonetheless, I praise any restaurant that puts Crispy Fried Cheese on the menu and doesn't hide it. Cheesecake Factory, I applaud you for your bravery.

7. Black-Out Cake

It's a cake with multiple layers of chocolate and fudge. It doesn't skimp, it's not thinly sliced, and it doesn't pretend to be anything than its raw disgusting self. We need more cakes like these out there.

6. Dulce de Leche Caramel Cheesecake

Sugar on fat on sugar on fat

Image: cheesecake factory

This cheesecake is heavy on the caramel, so it's not for everyone. Still, the Dulce de Leche is a beautiful option who anyone who's unsatisfied with the frightening level of sugar already present in cheesecake and needs more.

5. Lemon Raspberry Cream Cheesecake

It's always depressing when people recommend raspberries as a solo dessert option. However, raspberries do wonders when it comes to cheesecake. I'm so glad the Factory found a way to be inclusive.

4. Buffalo Blasts

Fried on fried

Image: Cheesecake factory

It's chicken and cheese in a spicy wrapper. Wraps mostly terrify me but this one is so foul, it's wonderful. I highly recommend the Buffalo Blast for the foodies bored of the wing.

3. Warm crab and artichoke dip

This is a people's favorite. I've never been a huge fan of crab myself, but I applaud anything drowned in a bucket of cream. Bonus: It likely contains all of your calories for the day. No need to eat anything else!

2. Pumpkin Cheesecake

The pumpkin cheesecake is perfect for the basic bitch, pumpkin-spice-latte-lover in all of us. It's got just enough bite to keep me interested, and buckets of sugar to keep me awake all night.

1. Hot Spinach and Cheese Dip

Cheesy greatness

Image: cheesecake factory

I'm going to take a lot of heat for listing such a traditional, unoriginal favorite first. So be it. Sometimes, you've just got to stand up for what you believe in. I commend the factory for making such a superior appetizer. As anyone in the foodie community knows, appetizers, not entrees, are where it's at.

Run along, my dear Cheesecake Factory fans, and try everything on this listicle. You (excluding your arteries) won't regret it.

WATCH: Would you throw $19,000 on this bathtub?

#_author:Heather Dockray #_uuid:2993f16d-c729-3940-8d38-b79e1bd6bfd3 #_lmsid:a0Vd000000DTrEpEAL #_revsp:news.mashable

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