THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO VALENTINE’S DINING
Who Said Valen-DINING is for couples only? There’s of course Galentine’s Day for all the ladies out there! When February 14th rolls around you’ll find me eating my feelings. On a serious note, there are so many beautiful friendships and loving relationships in my life that are worth celebrating. (This is me looking for any excuse to OVER eat)
Check out some of the locations below, featuring different cuisines and vibes.
Galentine’s Day – FEBRUARY 13
Leslie Knope created the day for ladies to celebrate ladies, and now we have Galentine’s Day. While we can always have girl dates, see a few notable spots perfect for the occasion.
Pepe’s Cantina– Winter Park Wine Down featuring all you can eat + drink for $15
Hamburger Mary‘s- check out this church street staple for some grub…don’t be a drag just be a queen. Quite the selection of burgers and get the rainbow dip!
Rising Star– inside Universal Studio’s City Walk lies this karaoke spot
VooDoo Doughnut- Happiness comes in pink boxes – City Walk @ Universal Studios
The Briar Patch– The ultimate brunch spot in Winter Park, FL – opted for the raspberry brie french toast and I would highly recommend!
Ice N Bites– Taiyaki, drinks, and other bites
Valentine’s Day- FEBRUARY 14
Tornatore’s Pizzeria– Offering two specials $40 & $75 with glasses of wine, option of entree, salad, and desserts. Located in College Park, FL
Metro Diner- Try their limited time offer “Strawberry Cheesecake filled Waffles” paired with a $2.99 mimosa, make sure check out their loaded home fries as well.
Hawkers- casual vibe, with sharable Asian Street Fare
Mather’s Social Gathering –intimate speakeasy where you can chat and order signature hand crafted cocktails. Snag a pic in the hanging chair!
Joysticks Video Game Bar – the only games I’m trying to play are VIDEO. All the nostalgic feels when you enter this bar, and the best part is that the games are free (minus the darn air hockey) even a Goonie’s VIP Lounge, Barbie Chair, and GoT tribute. Try the “Weird Science” drink for the ultimate experience.
Aku Aku Tiki Bar- Hidden between Stardust and WOB is a small Tiki Bar with some deliciously deadly Tiger F*cker shots. Try at your own risk.
Dexter’s – relaxed vibe with contemporary American cuisine in Thorton Park + Winter Park, FL
Santiago’s Bodega- Tapas perfect for sharing (or ya know, to eat alone…no shame) and make sure to grab a photo at this #Mural Stop
Thorton Park Wine Walk- monthly event that features various bars in the area on the second Thursday of every month
The Wine Room- bar and restaurant in cozy Winter Park
TopGolf– Really adding this to the list because I am very upset that I haven’t been here yet. Seems like the perfect spot to again, spend a few hours, eat and hang out. If you have friends trying to DOUBLE DATE (or triple, etc) this could also be a viable option. At TopGolf you rent a bay, which could easily be split among several people – making it extra affordable if you too are #BallinOnABudget
Farris & Foster’s Chocolate Factory – Show your significant other your sweet side and indulge together. It’s true chocolate does make you happier, so make it happen.
Hillstone- This upscale spot lays right on the lake and is perfect for a sunset dining experience.
A La Carte- Casual outdoor dining with food trucks and a bar
Bosphorus- Winter Park, FL – I HAVE NOT BEEN HERE, So I will be taking myself on a date here thank you.
The Melting Pot– If you haven’t been here, I am talking FONDUE HEAVEN. GO hard or GO home. Or do both, and take some to go…like me. But really don’t skip the cheese or the dessert, you are really missing out if you cut corners on this dining experience.
The Garlic– NSB – Somehow this is still another spot I have yet to check out. All I am going to say is, I have overheard many guys talking about bringing a date there…so I am going to assume this is a nicer establishment. After some research I’ve confirmed this should be added to the list. If you’ve been here, let me know what you got!
Blue Man Group– Born and raised Orlando Native but this is a tourist attraction I have not been to. For those who don’t know, this musical experience is tucked away in City Walk at Universal Studios.
Sugar Factory- located at the Orlando Eye, this restaurant known for his outrageous drinks and desserts is the perfect celebration spot. Be prepared for louder music and a pricier bill, you are on I-Drive after all.
Lake Ridge Winery– located in Clermont, FL with available tours and events
Winter Park Fish Co. – added to my list and I have heard great things, in Winter Park if that wasn’t already obvious. In a cluster of other great establishments, I see a tour coming soon.
Apron’s Cooking School- Yup Club Pub brings hearts together, and nothing like doing a little cooking while you’re at it. Rates vary based on food selections.
Lake Eola Swan Boats– End the evening in a romantic way in the city beautiful
Tampa Bay Lightning Hockey Game – #MakeHockeyViolentAgain
Orlando Magic Basketball Game– We’re on a little run, could be fun!
Disney Fireworks- If you don’t already know it is extremely easy to park at the Boardwalk hotel, hotel hop, monorail crawl, and watch fireworks poolside for FREE with all the Disney Vibes…well now you do!
Hour Glass Brewery- located in Longwood,FL and word on the street is that Sour Glass Brewery is in the works.
The Tasting Room– home of the spiciest Margarita to date, with a variety of delicious selections – Winter Garden, FL
Kabooki Sushi– perfect sushi date night spot, possibly the best in Downtown Orlando
Better Than Sex– BEST DESSERT – also good luck getting a reservation. If you can’t snag one these next few days, mark it on the calendar ASAP. The Sexiest Dessert Dining Experience. (Ivanhoe area) *GET THE KISS ME KATIE
Howl At The Moon– A tad touristy, but if you’re into dueling pianos this is your spot.
SAKS Comedy Lab– if your love life is also a joke, this is perfect – Orlando, FL
The Hall on Franklin- a little taste of everything in this classy establishment – Tampa, FL
LONG DISTANCE
Distance makes the heart grow fonder, and the way to many hearts is through the stomach. Surprise your loved one with one of these deliverable options.
Edible Arrangements- These beautifully crafted chocolate and fruit creations are delicious and really make a statement.
Uber Eats– Nothing says I love you more than a food delivery. Drop the addy, send them a pizza or four?!
Sherri’s Berrie’s- THE BEST CHOCOLATE COVERED STRAWBERRIES, hands down.
(recently) DIVORCED?
Splitsville– Didn’t want to leave anyone out, but on a real note hitting some pins and checking your MPH could be quite therapeutic.
At the end of the day, I hope everyone enjoys Valentine’s for what it is.
For those in love, we celebrate you. For those in heart break, we comfort you. For those who just don’t know, I am one of you! Much like the rest of this generation I am turned off by the idea of my fairy tale beginning with a swipe right but welcome to
Off the apps, happy, and focused on building.
If you need me, I’ll be eating XOXO
The Garlic is so yummy! I would highly recommend. I had the shrimp and scallop scampi when I went. My dad had the Bocce Ball. Talk about a huuuuge meatball!