Blue Bird Bake Shop- 5 Stars

Cozy and sweet, Blue Bird Bake Shop is the place I love to go for a treat! Located in Audubon Park, it is a place I hope you will also soon call a favorite.

Cupcakes, scones, brownies, cakes, cookies, ice cream sandwiches, coffee...whatever you're craving, Blue Bird has you covered. What to try first, what to come back later for? It is definitely a hard decision. But, no matter what you choose, you will be completely satisfied! My stomach has always left happy.

The few times I have visited so far, Blue Bird has exceeded my expectations. To start, the customer service has always been great. You are greeted the moment you walk in the door with a smile and a welcome that is genuinely sincere. The staff who work here thoroughly enjoy their job. First time, no problem! Just mention it, they love to tell you about the sweets and coffee they have to offer. Customer service will never disappoint you here!

Marsh Nutter and Tuxedo Cupcakes

Their sweets are just as great as their customer service. I have been twice so far and have loved everything I have tried. My favorite cupcakes so far are the Red Velvet and the Marsh Nutter. Red Velvet is always there, but the Marsh Nutter is one of their specials. Check the top shelf for their daily specials. Get them when you see them, because they are only offered for a short time (sometimes just that day). I am so glad I went last week and got to try the Marsh Nutter; it is by far one of the best cupcakes I have had.

Want something different or a Cup of Joe to go with your cupcake? No problem. They have several different varieties of muffins, scones and cookies. Looking for a Banana Chocolate Chip or a Strawberry Streusel muffin? Or maybe a Lemon Cherry or Mocha Chocolate Chip scone? Maybe you would like a Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake cookie? It all looks amazing. I think you will be happy.

Now onto that Cup of Joe. Their coffee is called Top Hat. It is 100% Organic and Rainforest Alliance-certified. The beans are grown in the highlands in Nicaragua just for their store. They have Dark, Light, and Decaf, or if you'd prefer a specialty drink, they have that too. I am definitely going to get a cup on my next visit!

If your mouth is not watering for a taste of Blue Bird yet, then check out their website (http://bluebirdbakeshop.com/) or stop on in. I am confident that you will not walk out empty handed.

Visit Blue Bird Bake Shop and give yourself, friends, or family a sweet treat! 

(Don't forget to mention Local Girl Eats sent you to try their sweets.)

Cafe 906 - 5 Stars

Looking for a new place to try? Cafe 906 is the place to go! Authentic, charming, and delicious; I have not been disappointed yet.

What to eat, what to try? It is definitely hard to choose once you step in the door! They offer many different choices from crepes, omelettes, croissants, quiches, eclairs to lunch choices like soup, salads, and sandwiches. Want a good cup of Joe to accompany your breakfast or sweet? They have great coffee...or mimosas. 

             Croque Madame                 Eclair with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc

Service is also great. The owners and staff have always been friendly and helpful when it comes to deciding on new things. They have even offered to do Gluten Free choices again, once a month, for people like my mom who have Celiac Disease. 

And best of all, you cannot beat the view! Outside seating offers a great view of Lake Baldwin. When the weather is right, outside is the place to sit!

Cafe 906 is a great place for breakfast, lunch, dessert, or brunch...to stop in alone, pick up to go, or enjoy with friends or family. Located in downtown Baldwin Park, it will quickly become a favorite, just give it a try. Don't forget to mention Local Girl sent you! Bon Appetite!

      Paris Crepe                                          Almond Croissants

For more information or for updates check out their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Cafe-906/253770161327543

The Smiling Bison- 5 Stars

The Smiling Bison​ is a great place located in Baldwin Park off Bennett Rd. If you are looking for a good burger, I'd say try here. Their burgers are delicious!

My first visit was a couple months ago, in January. I went with some friends, after a run, to celebrate a birthday. The place was busy and parking was difficult, but to me that is a good thing. Busy means it is a good place. After walking in, I noticed right away I was going to like the place. They had a live Jazz band playing and the ambiance was casual. Definitely a place to go with friends or even on a date.

Bison Burger with fries

The food. I decided since it was my first time, and that they are known for them, I should try a Bison Burger. I was definitely pleased. It is hard for me to find a place that cooks a burger the way I ordered, and they did. The burger was cooked perfectly! The bread, Texas Toast, is a favorite of mine. It makes the burger taste even better. Imagine a group of people who are chatting, having a good time. Then the food comes out, and everyone is quiet. That's how good the burgers are. We all were definitely enjoying them!

Along with the burgers, they have many other options as far as food goes. Don't want a burger, no problem. They also have a roast beef, smoked chicken sausage, or crispy fish roll sandwich. Prefer a salad, pizza, ravioli, ribeye, or a small plate (like meatballs), they have that too. There are many choices when it comes to dinner. Don't forget dessert, they have a few that sound delicious. I am looking forward to trying the Mascarpone Brownie next time I go.

On Sundays they have brunch from 11 am to 3 pm. For brunch they offer anywhere from fish & grits, banana bread french toast, biscuts & gravy, to a breakfast burrito, basic breakfast, or brunch poutine. I have not been for brunch yet, but the menu looks really good.

Drinks? There are many choices of beer and wine to choose from. Happy hour? Every weekday from 5:30-7 pm. Special events/music? They have a calendar on their website: http://thesmilingbison.com/.
Check it out to see what's happening each month.

Great food, good time, & definitely a hidden gem, The Smiling Bison is a place I will visit again! And it should be a place you visit soon and frequently. Let them know Local Girl sent ya and recommends the Bison Burger.

Don't forget to try the pickles! They are so good, I bought a jar to go.

The Briarpatch- 5 Stars

Have you been to Briarpatch in Winter Park yet? If your answer is no, then here is why you should. It has been a fav of mine to visit for breakfast, brunch, or just lunch for a long time now...I'd say about 6 years.

Sticky bun...yes!

Sticky buns, coffee, eggs, bacon, grits, omelettes, waffles, pancakes, french toast...Oh My! There's so much to choose from for breakfast, you won't be able to try just one thing. I personally love their sticky buns with a good cup of coffee; there is nothing better to start off a Saturday or Sunday morning with. But, if you prefer a full breakfast, then their omelettes are really good and definitely more than enough to satisfy your craving. Or maybe you feel like eggs, grits, fried green tomatoes and bacon...delicious as well. I found myself eating my friend's grits even though my omelette was sitting right in front of me unfinished. But, I am a country girl at heart, so grits are a must when eating breakfast. The Raspberry and Brie Stuffed French Toast is always another great option. You won't leave a bite on the plate! Whatever you choose, you will leave "fat and happy!"

Looking for lunch instead, I would recommend their burger. But if you like it medium well, make sure to say well done (but not burnt) because the beef they use (Wagyu Beef from Snake River Farm) cooks differently than regular beef. But it is delicious and really good! They also have great options for salads with a unique blend of fruit, nuts, protein and greens. Or maybe you are looking for a sandwich? Well, have no fear, they have plenty of great options there too! Grilled Chicken Breast, Corned Beef Reuben, Three Cheese Grill, Turkey, Brie, & Raspberry Croissant...Yum is all I have to say to that! Their menu offers many great choices for lunch.

Stop in and give Briarpatch a try sometime! While you are there, make sure to save room for dessert or some of their Homemade ice cream! These have to be tried, otherwise you will leave forgetting to try something amazing!

Located off Park Ave in Winter Park, it is a happening place, so you may want to go at an off time for breakfast or lunch. Or you can be like me, just wait, because it is worth the wait. Don't forget to mention Local Girl sent you!

Want more information or a chance to see the menu before stopping in, check them out on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/thebriarpatchrestaurant?rf=172885909437805

Eggs, grits, bacon and fried green tomatoes or...an omelette with toast and potatoes, it isn't easy to choose! 

903 Mills Market- 4.5 Stars

Hidden local gems are my favorite places to find, and 903 Mills Market is definitely one. It is tucked away in a beautiful neighborhood on S. Mills Ave. Whether you choose to plan your visit or just stop by on the fly, it is a great place.

Neighbors are lucky to have this place so close! Right in their backyard, they have a place with great food, beer, and a great view. People say that after you visit once, you will continue to go back again and again. Well, that is definitely true. All it took was once to get me hooked! The first time I went, I fell in love. Now whenever I am planning to go out after a race, bike ride, or just to enjoy a meal out on the weekend, 903 is always an option I throw out!

The 903 Breakfast Bowl is my favorite for breakfast. It is the perfect combination all mixed together: eggs, sausage, potatoes, and cheese, (onions and peppers also included)...mouth watering good! For lunch or even dinner, my favorite go to is now the Johnny Apple Jack Wrap. Hot roasted turkey, bacon, and pepper jack cheese, with sweet apple butter all in a wheat wrap (also comes with caramelized onions), it will bring a smile of happiness to your face! But those are just two of my favs. When it comes to food, they have a plethora of choices for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, depending on your craving. From bagels, to pancakes, to breakfast pizza, or flatbreads, to wraps or sandwiches, to salads, their menu is not disappointing. Their food is delicious.

The staff is also very nice. I have never had a bad experience. I have been when it was pouring outside and when they were busy; the staff both times were nothing but helpful and nice.

If you are looking for a little breakfast stop during the week, brunch with mimosas, a cute place to stop on a bike ride or walk, or maybe you are looking for a place to enjoy a quiet lunch or dinner with friends (and maybe a beer)...903 Mills Market is that place.

It is a great place, just give it a try once. Then like me, you will find yourself going back again and again. It's name is it's address. Your stomach won't be disappointed! Don't forget to tell them Local Girl loves them and sent you.

Johnny Apple Jack Wrap (and a Mimosa)

View of the outside seating area while hiding from the rain. Great stop on a bike ride (even on a rainy day)!

For more information or to check out their delicious menu stop by their website: http://903millsmarketcafe.com/ or you can stop by their page on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/903-Mills-Market/62625427520?id=62625427520&sk=info.

Prato-Winter Park - 5 Stars

Mustard Spaghettini. Just saying the name of my favorite dish makes my mouth water! Prato in Winter Park is the genius behind this amazing dish! Located on Park Avenue and honestly one of my new favorite places to eat, Prato is a place to try!

If you have never been to Prato, then I will have to tell you, you are missing out on a really amazing experience! Inside they have a bar that stretches most of the restaurant and a very cool kitchen area. They also have several different sized tables all over. Whether you have a big group (call ahead to make reservations though), are on a date, or out with a couple friends, they have accommodations to meet your need. If you prefer to sit outside, they have that available as well. The bar and eating areas have always been clean, and inside has always been lit just right to make me feel at home. Bathrooms are also very roomy and clean. It is a nice place!

This is my favorite dish: Mustard Spaghettini.

Food, food, food. They have plenty to choose from! Their meals range from unique pasta dishes to pizza to salad. Their menu also changes daily, however, favorites are always available like my favorite Mustard Spaghettini. Their pizzas are also always available and they are delicious!

Drinks, dessert...plenty to choose from here as well! If you are a wine drinker, your options are limitless; they have several different choices whether you are a red or white fan. Prefer something other than wine, well they have a full bar. Just make your choice and your wish will be granted (frozen drinks you will have to check, I do not think I've heard them making those the few times I have been). They also offer several different types of beer and cocktails. Tiramisu, Mascarpone Pound Cake, Gelatto, Brown Butter Panna Cotta...delicious dessert choices! The tiramisu is very good. They make it their own by adding a little something special. As my waiter said when I ordered it, "It will make you happy."

How is the service? Very good! I have never had a bad experience the few times I have gone. The waiters/waitresses have always been very helpful and friendly. They also are very helpful with understanding the menu and what is great to try. I would never have tried the Mustard Spaghettini had it not been for the waitress the first time I went. She recommended it and I am so glad she did. It seriously is mouth watering good! The bartenders are fast and helpful as well when it comes to making a drink choice if visiting the bar or waiting for a table at the bar. You won't be disappointed with the service!

Pizza!

   

The Tiramisu is small but delicious!

If I haven't said it enough already, you need to try this amazing place! The food, drinks, dessert, and total ambiance are worth the wait and price. I will go ahead and say you're welcome because once you go, you will see why it has become a new favorite of mine! Make sure to make a reservation though, especially for dinner on the weekends, because it gets very busy and your wait will be long as a walk in.

To learn more, check out their menu, or make a reservation visit their website at:

http://www.prato-wp.com/

Make sure to tell them Local Girl loves them!

The Gnarly Barley...5 Stars

One of my FAVORITE places to go! I love the atmosphere, service, food, and drinks. If you've never been, you need to go and well, you'll probably go back quite often after your first time. :)

The Wall

The Gnarly Barley is a local bar...my dad actually played softball and golf with one of the owners' dads a while ago. They have tacos, sandwiches, and beer. It really is a great place to drink, eat, and hang out.

I have been a few times already. The first time I went, my brother and his wife were the ones who introduced me. I had their Great Grilled Cheese. You literally get to mix and match 5 different cheeses to make your sandwich. Since I am a huge cheese fan, I was in heaven. It was really good! My brother got the Tacos (which ones I don't remember). He is a huge fan of their tacos. My brother's wife had The 38. It is a sub roll filled with turkey, ham, bacon, provolone, honey mustard, and tiger sauce with lettuce and tomato on the side. It's her favorite sandwich there. I tried it and was definitely wanting my own even though I was already eating my grilled cheese. The next time I went, I went with my cousin. We went late just for drinks. This last time I went, I got the Gnarly Dip. Mmm it was good!. It is a sub roll with roast beef, swiss, red onion (no onions for me, not an onion eater), and tiger sauce with au' jus on the side. My friend had the tacos...they are known for their tacos. Deliciousness for both of us! :)

The Gnarly Dip

How is their service? Awesome service! I've never had a problem nor have I ever been disappointed. They are really nice and welcoming. The staff is honestly the nicest I've seen in a while. You don't have to wait for anything except the food to be cooked (of course). :) Would I go back? Absolutely! I have already been a few times and definitely mention The Gnarly Barley when my friends and I plan to go out.

They have Taco Tuesdays where the tacos are $2 all day. Awesome deal. I think I might actually go tomorrow for it. They also have Happy Hour Tuesday-Friday from 4-7. The Gnarly Barley is seriously a cool place! I love going! If you've never been then you definitely need to go and try it out. You won't be disappointed!

Here is their website so you can check them out a little more before you go if you'd like:

http://www.thegnarlybarley.com/

Lido's Italian Restaurant - 4 Stars

A hole in the wall with good food...Lido's is a place I have been going to for years. It has been around since 1970 and the prices are not too bad. Since I've been going, the inside has not changed much. It is kind of nice to go in and see that some things/places have not given into the unnecessary changes of the outside world.

Lido's is a little Italian restaurant off Orange Ave in Orlando. When you get there, you may think it is really little on the inside...but it is actually cozy and nice. The tables are not very far from each other, but far enough away that people near you cannot hear your conversation (unless they are quiet and tuning in on purpose). The music is soft, therefore, helping it to not get too loud. Many restaurants play their music too loud which then makes people talk louder. Or they have such a big place that so many people are talking, which in turn makes it loud inside. Then you just have a really noisy place. With Lido's being smaller and more of a local spot, it is a nice place to go when you are on a date, want to have a nice, quiet meal, or just want to be away from the loud crowds. Parking can be a problem during their busy times, but it is worth it.

Cute little set up

Tonight I decided that I wanted to go back since it has been a while...so I dragged my mom and dad with me (they like it too, it's just not good for my mom who has Celiac Disease). Parking was actually not too bad tonight, but we did go for an earlier dinner, at 6:30. When I got there it was nice to see the cozy, soft atmosphere had not changed. They still had the red and white tablecloths, plants, and candles on the tables. It also was not too dark, but definitely not full lighting...just enough to make it feel inviting and romantic (if you're on a date). When I am inside, I tend to forget about what is going on outside, even with being that close to the busy Orange Ave.

So onto the food. Tonight I actually decided to try something new! I usually get the manicotti or chicken alfredo because they are two of my favorite meals. Their manicotti and chicken alfredo are really good. I like the taste of Lido's alfredo better than Olive Garden's because it tastes more homemade. Tonight I went with Chicken Picante...breast of chicken sautéed in a delicate white wine and lemon butter sauce with a side of pasta. I was very pleased! The chicken was so tender that when I was cutting it, it fell apart before I could finish cutting the piece. The sauce was delicious. The wine gave it a sort of bitter taste with the lemon and butter making it a little sweet too. It honestly is a great idea for a sauce...I could never come up with the right mix of butter, white wine, and lemon to make it taste that good. The side of pasta was angel hair pasta in marinara sauce. I love their red sauce; it's sweet with just a hint of spicy. I was very happy with my decision to try something new!

My dad went with the chicken cacciatore...which is chicken with some veggies (peppers, mushrooms) in their marinara sauce. I may have forgotten a few ingredients in it, sorry. He said it was good, although he likes his friend's wife's chicken cacciatore better (she's Italian and makes it a different way). Overall he was pleased...he ate it all. My mom ate some salad and had a breast of chicken on the side (she cannot eat Italian because of the gluten in it).

With our meals we also got salad and breadsticks (they come with the meal). They come out before the entrees. I love their breadsticks because they aren't too greasy. To me they are just right. :) The salad is good as well, however, my mom and I were disappointed that it didn't have pasta in it tonight. When we used to go, they used to put spiral pasta in their salad...made it different in a nice way. But, I think that it may be something you have to ask for now...don't know.

Tonight was a nice night. We had a nice meal in a clean and cozy place. The server was not great tonight, however, I have had better service before. Lido's is a place people go back to because of the atmosphere and food. It is definitely a place I would recommend everyone try at least twice because if you are used to and a huge fan of Olive Garden or other chain Italian restaurants you might not understand it the first time. Go back a second time and you might just forget about Olive Garden like me. I will continue to go back and dine at Lido's because it is a good little, local Italian Restaurant and I'm all about supporting the independent places!

A couple pictures to make your mouth water...

  

  

Salad and breadsticks (much better than a certain place)

Chicken Picante and Chicken Cacciatore

407 Cafe - 4 Stars

Located in the Lake Nona area...it's really a cute place with great food!

I first visited 407 Café back in April with my sister-in-law. We were going to the nail spa right near it and after decided to just go next door to eat. My sister-in-law had been before, but this was going to be my first experience...I was definitely pleased!

I then last weekend took my mom to 407 Café when I took her to get a pedicure. I remembered how delicious my Panini was last time I went and told my mom she had to try it. So we went! I again got the smoked turkey Panini...mmm...it is really amazing! Sweetly smoked turkey breast, fresh baby spinach, melted swiss cheese, and cool tangy cranberry sauce on...you get to choose: Ciabatta, Baguette, Multigrain, Pumpernickel, or Foccacia Basil Cheese. The first time I went I had it on the Foccacia Basil Cheese bread...it was good! I also deleted the spinach because I didn't know if I'd like it. Last week I went with the spinach and Ciabatta...much better! The Foccacia Basil Cheese is delicious, but I personally liked the Ciabatta better this past time. It is really an amazing sandwich! I eat the whole thing because it's just one of those sandwiches you can't put down! My mom got the same thing, but like me the first time, she didn't get spinach for her first time. :)

While dining there, I met one of the owners, he was very nice! He took the time to talk to my mom and I about the place and how long it's been there. He was also the one who got me to break down and get the gelato (was trying to stay healthy). All he had to do though was let me taste a few, ha! It was worth the calories though...

This place is definitely worth driving to no matter where you live...I definitely recommend! Not only do they have paninis and gelato, but they are also known for their Crepes...Savory or Dessert. My next trip will definitely be for a crepe (and of course another yummy mimosa)!

If you want to look them up and see what else they have to offer click below for their website:

http://www.407cafe.com/index.php

Outside View

My mom and I enjoying our time together