The local delegation of state representatives on Monday unanimously approved support for a bill that would create a liquor license exemption for restaurants in a specifically designated downtown area.

The bill, which will be sponsored by state representative Mike Miller, will be placed on the agenda for a vote by the full Florida House of Representatives.

If enacted, the bill would allow restaurants in the downtown district with 80 seats and at least 1,800 square feet to serve full liquor. Currently, restaurants must have the capacity to serve at least 150 customers at one time and occupy a space of at least 2,500 square feet to be able to serve full liquor, or purchase a license for approximately $300,000.

The city of Orlando sought the exemption to encourage independent restaurateurs and boutique eateries to open in downtown Orlando.

More details on the bill and a map of the proposed downtown dining district at this link.

Chef Jared Gross of Urban Tide at the Hyatt Regency Orlando demonstrates how to prepare the Salmon Pastrami that he features at that terrific seafood restaurant. The recipe is below, so take a look at the video then gather the ingredients and give it whirl.

This sounds like fun — a massive, live, online cooking class.

Gary Appelsies, chef and director of healthy eating at the YMCA of Central Florida, is hosting “Sunday Supper Live with Chef Gary” on Oct. 22, but please don’t show up at his house.

Instead, log on to Facebook and join his live broadcast as he demonstrates how to make a more healthful version of spaghetti and meatballs. In fact, go log in now and sign up, then go to the Family Dinner Project website where you can find the recipes.