Feasting Through Four Seasons: Orlando
Orlando is one of the world's most popular travel destinations. For kids, Disney World creates dreams of Mickey Mouse, pixies, roller coasters, princes and princesses. However, if you think Orlando is for kids only — think again!
The Four Seasons Resort Orlando, which opened in August 2014, presents a fresh take on the city. Acclaimed culinary and management teams set the tone for a service-centric experience. Luxurious accommodations and near Mouse-less design create a modern feel that is unique in an area where themes reign. I did see a few "hidden Mickey's" throughout the hotel though. The clean, contemporary décor and renowned guest service is likely the reason that this resort is the first and only recipient in Central Florida of the coveted AAA Five Diamond Award.
Adults can experience the magic of Orlando without setting foot in a Disney park — unless one wants to, of course. At Four Seasons, guests enjoy the sanctuary of the adult-only pool, The Oasis, which is exclusively for guests 21 and older. It is an infinity-edge lakeside pool surrounded by cabanas and royal palms. Think hourly treats, from frozen grapes and iced mocha shots, to sunglass cleanings and Evian spritzes.
With several options to choose from, and chefs specializing in each cuisine, this is an Orlando for food-lovers. From Latin to Italian, burgers to branzino, with what's happening in Orlando right now this hot city is quickly becoming a top culinary destination. Feasting my way through Four Seasons at their six hip and happening restaurants under one umbrella was supremely savory! Here's the skinny:
Capa
This stunning rooftop signature steakhouse is helmed by chef Tim Dacey, a chef with strong city roots at acclaimed independent restaurants, having cooked at hot eateries such as The NoMad in NYC and Spiaggia in Chicago. Tapas and prime meats are the specialty at Capa and an open kitchen and sizzling wood fire create an alluring ambiance. Floor-to-ceiling windows and an expansive terrace entice diners to step outside to view the nightly Magic Kingdom Park fireworks. In hues of black, grey, and crimson, this striking restaurant evokes "big city hot spot" among the plethora of chain eateries that Orlando is known for.
Lickety Split
Sandwiches, croissants, fresh treats and gelato are here at your fingertips. This café is known for the special iced coffee that has an 8-hour cold brew drip process. It is high octane and will definitely help keep you up and running! The gelato is outstanding and are all made in-house by the resort's uber talented pastry team. You can choose from over 15 creative and delicious flavors like Pistachio and Peanut Butter & Jelly.
The Lobby Bar
The Lobby Bar is as the name describes, the perfect go-to bar whether it's for happy hour, dinner, or late night drinks. The expansive terrace is ideal to unwind on underneath a giant umbrella, while enjoying a custom cocktail such as Ryan's Rootbeer or the Girlfriend Is Better.
PB&G
This lakeside open-air restaurant has an all-day dining menu with a Southern flair, including fresh Florida seafood and daily specials. A rotisserie grill ensures barbecued specialties are cooked to perfection. Handcrafted cocktails such as the Watermelon Crawl are refreshing and perfect for the warm Florida climate. Set on three floating wooden pavilions, with colorful picnic tables, rustic lanterns and stringed lights, PB&G is fun for nighttime events, too, and is usually open until 9 p.m.
Plancha
Chef Pedro Sanchez knows how to dish up flavor at Plancha, the resort's lakeside restaurant at Tranquilo Golf Clubhouse. The Cuban sandwich was one of my favorites and the fresh catch of the day is paired with a delicious salsa. It's just a hop, skip and jump from the resort and well worth it!
Ravello
Executive chef Fabrizio Schenardi is the star at this amazing Italian restaurant. Serving recipes straight from his grandmother's kitchen, chef Fabrizio makes everyone feel warm and instantly at home. The veal ravioli and Bolognese tagliatelle just melt in your mouth. All of Ravello's pastas and breads are made fresh daily in house.
This resort is a must visit for the food-lover who's also a fan of fun and the sun!