Dine, Wine, and Shine

Good morning, Orlando. Well, that sucked. Apparently, just hours before I wrapped up last Thursday’s newsletter containing a Beach Boys tribute event at the Garden Theatre in Winter Garden, they posted a closure notice. Big-time caca, but a movement is underway to “Save The Garden Theatre.”

In other news, I had a breakfast experience that left such an impression last Friday. I decided to go for a second round Saturday morning! You’ll see what the spot is in today’s Foodie Find section below.

🌀 And last but not least. I hope everyone stays safe during Hurricane Milton scheduled to arrive Wednesday. Here’s a listing of all sandbagging spots in case anyone needs it.

 In today’s issue: 👇

• Dine, Wine, and Shine

• Beyond the plate

• The Maple Dose

• ….and much more

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Let’s dive in!

- Philip

ORLANDO REWIND ⏪
The Extraordinary Life of the San Juan Hotel

In the heart of modern Orlando, where the Morgan and Morgan building now stands, once towered the legendary San Juan Hotel.

Born in 1885 from Henry S. Kedney's audacious vision, this architectural marvel rose as Orlando's first permanent hotel and largest edifice. Its unconventional foundation, laid daringly atop bare ground by Captain C. E. Pierce, defied naysayers and stood firm for nearly a century.

Under Harry L. Beeman's ownership, the San Juan expanded to five stories, serving not just as a luxurious retreat but also as Orlando's post office. Through decades of renovations and expansions, it remained the epitome of elegance and modernity, boasting amenities like private baths and a grand veranda.

Yet, the grand dame's story wasn't without turbulence. Financial woes and changing times led to multiple closures and rebirths. Its final incarnation as the Grand Central Hotel in 1977 saw it transform into a vibrant "disco hotel," attracting star performers like Donna Summer and Gloria Gaynor, and embracing the LGBTQ community amidst controversy.

Tragically, a mysterious fire in 1979 wrote the hotel's final chapter. Despite preservation attempts by the Orlando Historic Preservation Board, the San Juan succumbed to demolition in 1980, leaving behind a legacy of ambition, resilience, and the ever-changing face of Orlando.

THE SQUEEZE 🍊
Dine, Wine, and Shine: College Park's Philanthropic Feast

College Park's culinary extravaganza returns!

On October 10th (Thursday), from 6 to 9 p.m., the Taste of College Park Food and Wine Festival transforms the Great Southern Box Co. Food Hall into a foodie's paradise.

Nearly two dozen local eateries, from Jeff's Bagel Run to Hawkers Asian Street Food, will showcase their finest. This epicurean adventure, organized by the Rotary Club, isn't just about tantalizing taste buds—it's a feast of philanthropy.

Historically netting up to $45,000, proceeds benefit local charities like Ronald McDonald House and Dolly Parton's Imagination Library.

With auctions, raffles, and mouthwatering delights, it's "College Park's best night out," where good food meets goodwill.

Policing with a Heart in the Homelessness Crisis

A new chapter unfolds as HB 1365 (No public camping/sleeping now implemented) reshapes the landscape of homelessness and law enforcement.

Central Florida's law enforcement agencies navigate this shift with compassion as their compass. From Orange to Seminole County, officers prioritize aid over arrests, offering resource information and collaborating with shelters and mental health professionals.

Marion County balances strict enforcement with support for those battling addiction or mental health issues. Deputies across the region now serve as bridges to vital services, transforming their role from mere enforcers to community lifelines.

As Volusia County cautiously considers its approach, one truth shines bright: in Central Florida, the badge now symbolizes both protection and profound care for society's most vulnerable.

Enzian's 13+ Films of Halloween With a Spellbinding Cinematic Feast

Enzian Theater's "13+ Films of Halloween" returns with a vengeance in 2024, promising a month-long descent into cinematic terror. Although, there’s only 10 left at this juncture.

This expanded series offers a bewitching blend of cult classics, modern nightmares, and family-friendly frights. From the teen-witch drama "The Craft" to the surreal "Phantom of the Paradise," the lineup caters to every shade of horror enthusiast.

The Eden Bar conjures "13 Cocktails of Halloween," while free outdoor screenings invite communal scares under the stars.

With midnight showings, international chillers, and even a costume party for mini-monsters, Enzian crafts an immersive Halloween experience that'll haunt viewers long after October fades to black.

👉 Here’s the full list.

Beyond the Plate: Orlando's Tastemakers Redefine Dining

From humble beginnings as a college bar owner, Michael D'Esposito has transformed Orlando's culinary landscape with Thriving Hospitality.

Each venture, from The Knights Pub to the innovative Lamp and Shade in Mills 50, reflects the group's evolution and commitment to tailored experiences. Chef Ryan Stewart, formerly of Universal Studios, spearheads their culinary innovation with a generous R&D budget.

D'Esposito emphasizes creating joy, not just serving food, while Stewart believes in immersion as both creators and consumers to stay cutting-edge. Their latest concept, Lamp and Shade, pushes boundaries in the creative Mills 50 district.

Thriving Hospitality continues to redefine success in the industry, crafting unique dining experiences that resonate with each community they enter.

See an expanded version of this article published by our media partner, Winter Park City Lifestyle.

TASTY NEWS 🧑‍🍳
Orlando Eateries On Their Way

1️⃣ Light on the Sugar - Confectionery Crescendo Hits Orlando

Light on the Sugar's (Insta) maestros, Yixi Qiu and Wen Pan, orchestrate a sugary expansion at 429 N Alafaya Trail. Expect a pastry paradise opening within weeks, followed by Obon Chocolate Shop's grand debut early next year. Orlando's palate is poised for a delectable expansion!

2️⃣ Beignets & Brew - Big Easy Comes to Orlando!

Beignets & Brew (Insta), the Miramar Beach sensation, is set to jazz up Orlando next month at 885 N. Orange Avenue. Expect classic and adventurous beignets, from traditional to s'mores, paired with energizing brews. As Downtown Credo bows out, this sweet newcomer promises a taste of New Orleans magic in its space!

3️⃣ The Glass Knife - Dessert Paradise Doubles Down

Winter Park's dessert haven, The Glass Knife (Insta), is set to dazzle Park Avenue with a second location in Spring 2025. This culinary gem promises all-day delights, from sumptuous breakfasts to their legendary, waistline-expanding cakes. Get ready for a sugar-coated revolution at 212 N. Park Avenue!

👎 Dearly Departing: Doshi (Insta closing statement), the contemporary take on Korean cuisine, from classic dishes to street food will close at the end of the month. You can book a last hurrah here.

#ORLANDOSIGNAL 📸

Sperry Fountain

📷 via @orlandosignal |📍Lake Eola

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FOODIE FIND, FORK YEAH! 🤩
EggDose Pop-up

📍Popup around Orlando

Let’s talk about EggDose (Insta), a pop-up sensation transforming the humble breakfast sandwich into an Instagram-worthy masterpiece.

I experienced this gem on a Friday with my son in front of Sunset Bodega. I was so impressed I returned the very next morning with my wife to their Winter Garden Farmers Market pop-up.

The star, the Maple Dose (see my photo below👇), features cloud-like scrambled eggs, smokey bacon, and tangy cheddar nestled in French toast-style brioche, dusted with powdered sugar and served with maple syrup. 🔥

EggDose is creating a breakfast experience that's truly egg-ceptional. ← you see what I did there???

MORE PULP! 😎
Weekday things to check out

> Monday (today), conjure up some cocktail magic at Basic Witch Mixology in JoJo's Pumpkin Patch. From 6-8pm, learn to brew BOO-Cardi Rum Punch & Caramel Apple Mules under the guidance of expert potion masters. Your ticket includes two bewitching drinks and 20% off diner classics. (boo-ze)

> Monday, saddle up for a night with Lyle Lovett and His Large Band at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. This Grammy-winning cowboy and his posse hit the stage at 8pm, serving up a hearty helping of country, swing, jazz, folk, and gospel. (yeehaw)

> Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, witness ambition and madness collide in Macbeth at Orlando Shakes. UCF's talented third-year MFA performers bring Shakespeare's darkest tragedy to life, proving that heavy is the head that wears the crown. (toil and trouble)

> Thursday, score a touchdown for your taste buds at Feast on the 50 at Camping World Stadium. Starting at 5pm, enjoy unlimited local eats and drinks while college alumni clubs battle it out for the most spirited tent. It's a tailgate party of epic proportions! (touchdown)

> Thursday, Friday, let The String Queens at Dr. Phillips Center orchestrate your musical journey. This dynamic trio will have you swaying from Baroque to Billboard hits, proving that three bows are all it takes to rule a musical kingdom. (bow-tiful)

> Thursday to Saturday, brave the chilling world of Phantasmagoria XV: "Grim and Grimmer Tales" at the Alexis & Jim Pugh Theater, Dr. Phillips Center. Edgar Allan Poe, Henry James, and Le Fanu's ghostly stories come alive through a spine-tingling mix of dance, puppetry, and original music. (spook-tacular)

THANKS!

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Thanks for reading! I’ll see you again on Thursday’s weekend fun issue.

My Best,
Philip - Publisher, Orlando Signal