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.

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

Getting to know local girl...

Hi, I am Jessica. This is my blog, I'm new, and this is my passion...finding local/independent places with great food. I have lived in FL all my life. I grew up in Orlando (O-Town), went to Jacksonville for college, then moved back to Orlando after graduating and teaching for 2 years. I am a First Grade teacher, 10 years of teaching now (updated 2015). Love my job, love my kids, teaching is a passion!

Another passion is eating! I love to enjoy good food, whether it's alone, with family, or with friends. My passion is to support local places to support the local economy. I like to find new places that are independently owned, and then tell others about them to promote them.

I am also an avid gym girl! I love to work out. I love the gym, running, hiking, bike riding, anything to be active. I also like to eat healthy. I try to watch what I eat throughout the week, but then let loose a few nights and on the weekends. I do have to admit, I give into Ben & Jerry's quite frequently!

Follow me to enjoy some amazing local food and help me support the local economy!