So…I did a thing
Delicious bites at the Michelin Guide event at The Tampa EDITION. That’s Maine lobster tail carpaccio on the right, ahi tuna crudo in the cup and jumbo shrimp.
And what I did was, I accepted a media invite to attend the event to announce the Michelin Star and Bib restaurant winners from Orlando, Tampa and Miami. It was held at the gorgeous The Tampa EDITION Hotel on Thursday night. I’m a huge fan of The EDITION on Miami Beach so I knew this place would be a stunner.
Charred chicken masala bites served up by Bombay Restaurant in Orlando.
Duck fat tots served up by Lilac Restaurant.
Stunning sunset view at The Tampa EDITION balcony.
There were plenty of oysters too and a fun ice sculpture where all the bites were displayed.
I also wanted to see all the great Miami winners and I was impressed at how many of those restaurants I’ve been to! It was a fabulous event with great food, an exciting upbeat atmosphere with plenty of smiles and hugs happening all night. I was so glad I drove up to attend. Click here for a whole slew of articles about that night and the winners.
Dramatic lobby staircase at The Tampa EDITION.
One of the many elegant bars at The Tampa EDITION.
It also gave me the opportunity to spend some time with my brother Mario who was a wonderful host at his condo in Bradenton. We got to visit his son Chris (the new head coach at St. Stephen’s that I mentioned last week) at his school on Friday, and take a tour of the amazing campus. It was fun to see him greet students and introduce us to teachers, administration and coaches. Lunch at the funky Tide Tables in Cortez Village with my brother was so relaxing. The vibe at this little spot is just laid back waterfront, my absolute favorite type of restaurant atmosphere.
View from Tide Tables Restaurant at Cortez Village in Bradenton, FL.
Entrance to the Cypress Swamp Trail at Highland Hammocks State Park in Sebring, FL.
In the heart of the Cypress Swamp Trail.
View at the end of the Cypress Swamp Trail. I could’ve sat here all the day but the mosquitoes began paying a visit to I had to cut my time short.
On the road to Highland Hammocks State Park.
Driving back home yesterday, I took advantage and intentionally drove across the state so I could make a stop at Highland Hammocks State Park in Sebring, FL. It was glorious!!! I’m a huge fan of visiting state parks and this is another one I’m proud to say I can check off my list. My sister-in-law Kerri gave me a Florida State Parks book years back that has a page dedicated to each of the 175 state parks and I can’t wait to add my notes and memories of my experience.
Overall it was a fantastic week, it really was, and I can’t wait to hit the road again soon!
Driving to the Keys, the view never gets old!
View from our table at Robbie’s Marina in Islamorada.
Nick enjoying the water at Anne’s Beach.
View at Anne’s Beach
This boat is on display in front of Rain Barrel Village in Islamorada. It hit me hard when I read that sign.
Oh and I almost forgot to mention our day trip to Islamorada last Sunday. We went to Robbie’s Marina and had a fantastic lunch on their waterfront deck. We then went to Anne’s Beach where they’ve got a lovely boardwalk and cute little beach. Then we stopped at the Rain Barrel Village where we bought a beautiful windchime for the backyard.
Also, we remain the reigning champs at Wednesday night trivia, taking first place AGAIN this week! And, here’s a link to my latest Artburst Miami article which was also picked up by Biscayne Times. Click here to read it on Artburst and click here to see the article in Biscayne Times.
Next week I’ll share the link to my last article, a full feature wrap-up article on the F&B@Sea Convention.
Until next Friday (or maybe Saturday? LOL) have a wonderful weekend and week.
