Flat White Craze

Flat White: an coffee beverage developed in Australia and New Zealand; similar to a cappuccino and consists of coffee and milk with two ristretto shots; noted for its strong taste and velvety consistency  

Starbucks recently came out with their version of the traditional flat white.  Since then, the drink has been trending in the American coffee community.  Let's face it, Starbucks is basically the voice of the American coffee community by practically monopolizing the U.S coffee industry.

When I heard Starbucks came out with the drink I was ecstatic to try it.  The drink was quite delectable and something I would definitely order again.  However after visiting Whole Foods Market and seeing the Allegro coffee bar selling their rendition, I had to partake.  Turns out, I actually preferred Allegro's version of the drink and the price difference is quite shocking.

Starbucks Tall Flat White (12 oz): starting from $3.75 (price varies in different regions) = strong and smooth, but not necessarily tasty
Allegro Flat White (12 oz): $1.75 = strong and smooth with a tasty finish

More bang for you buck in my opinion!

Ciao,

       Monique

Chef John's Place

As one enters Chef John's Place in Kissimmee, Florida, they are embraced with its cozy and inviting ambiance.  

Chef John's menu can satisfy various taste palates with its options ranging from barbecue, seafood, grilled steaks and even some Mexican influenced plates.  

The relaxed, quaint environment, as well as the delectable food, makes it a wonderful place to share a delicious, intimate meal with the one's you love.             

Clam Strips

Fried Mushrooms

Both appetizers were the perfect options to satisfy our watering mouths.  They came to our table hot and fresh.  Although both the clams and mushrooms were fried, they were not greasy.

Rib Eye with hericot vert and roasted potatoes

Both my aunt and father decided to order the rib eye.  I stole a bite, and it was really up to par.  The meat was flavorful and tender.

Blackened Grouper Linguine 

I ordered the Blackened Grouper Linguine.  The pasta was rich with flavor and laced with a delightful beurre blanc.  The vegetables was crisp and the grated cheese (not sure which kind) suited the dish perfectly.  The grouper was perfectly cooked, being crisp on the outside and moist on the inside. The fish had a great kick to it, which is great since I love spicy food!     


Chef John's place hasn't just charmed us local Floridians with its delicious food, but also has grabbed the attention of the media.  Not to mention celebrity chef Emril Lagasse's attention who featured the restaurant in his show Emril's Florida (aired on the Cooking Channel and Food Network).


Ciao,

       Monique

Buonissimo Italia!

 

Chicken Bruschetta

                                                                      Chicken Bruschetta  

When it comes to having a nice, authentic Italian meal, All Italian Market and Deli is the place to go.  I absolutely love the place!  The ambience is homey and inviting and the service is fantastic.  They have a wide selection of Italian meats, cheeses, pastas, etc. (many of them being imported),  as well as a delectable menu.  My family and I have been there nearly every consecutive weekend since our first visit, whether it being to enjoy a meal together, sip on a cup of cappuccino, or indulge in their sinfully good desserts and gelato.  

 

All Italian Market and Deli is co-owned by two Italian brothers.  I was able to meet and have a nice conversation with Rocco (picture up above), one of the owners.  Rocco is very friendly and did a great job of accommodating us on our first excursion to the restaurant.

All Italian (amazing meat and cheese platter)

  Della Casa Salad (has the perfect medley of sweet, salt and bitter)

 Manhattan Special (espresso soda)

Penne Alfredo (rich and hearty)

 live band that plays every Friday night

Cappuccino (really hits the spot!)

Divine Tiramisu!

Ciao,

       Monique

Dolce

Dolce Bakery and Café is one of my favorite places to brunch.  The vibe there is modern and chic while still being homey and inviting.  Influenced by both Venezuelan and Italian culture, its menu includes deliciously pressed panini’s to hot and crisp arepas.  Most of their meals are in heavy portions, so there is more bang for your buck. 

 

Colombian Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with tomatoes and green onions, rice and black beans, Venezuelan arepa ($7)

Coffee and cookie that came along with the Colombian Breakfast

Dolce also has an AMAZING selection of pastries and cakes, all well and professionally done. 

Whenever my mother has to order a cake for a party or event first choice is almost always Dolce. Their bakers are incredibly skilled and make gorgeous and delicious cakes at a reasonable price.    

My 14th Birthday Cake (Type: Amaretto with whipped cream and chocolate chips)

Ciao,

       Monique

Lunch on Mills

Orlando always has quaint, little places to eat, but sometimes it takes a little effort to search for them. 

Being the inquisitive person that my father is, he found a cute cafe buried between a plethora of houses called 903 Mills Market.

 The ambiance at 903 Mills Market is top notch.  Its outside patio has a very calming, relaxing atmosphere. It’s a great place to have a Sunday brunch with your girlfriends. 

The menu consists of mostly deli items (salads, sandwiches, etc., as well as breakfast items).  The place is also known for its wide selection of beer and wine.  

 

Genoa salami, ham, provolone, lettuce, tomato, onion mayo, and olive tapenade on a roll. $7.99

I had their Italian specialty sandwich.



I didn’t really enjoy the sandwich as much as I thought I would have, but that wouldn’t stop me from going to 903 Mills Market again.  I caught a glimpse of their salads, and they looked scrumptious!


The surrounding atmosphere was also very nice.

 *If you have been to 903 Mills Market and have any suggestions on what I should order next time, please comment below : )



Ciao,

       Monique