There’s just one week to go until the second annual Orlando Food & Wine Fest at Lake Eola. Last year’s inaugural event was a pretty good first effort, and this year’s is looking like it’s going to be even better. For one thing, it’s no longer confined — and confined is the appropriate word — to Robinson Street. This year the city is allowing the organizers to spill over into the north part of Lake Eola (the park, not the lake; that would not be fun).
They’re bringing back one of the coolest things from last year’s fest, a full-sized sports bar on wheels. You’ve got to see this thing to appreciate it. But there also will be booths where 35 local restaurants will be selling samples and wine reps with dozens of wines available for purchase. Participating restaurants include Cityfish, Funky Monkey, HUE, The Black Olive and Primo. Wineries include Jekel, Bonterra, Ecco Domani and one called Little Black Dress Wines. The latter, I’m guessing, is a wine that goes with anything.
The event, sponsored by Smooth 103.1 WLOQ, Orlando Home & Leisure magazine and the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association, is Saturday, November 14th from Noon to 9 p.m. and Sunday, the 15th, from noon until 6 p.m. Tickets are $10 each day, or you can purchase a weekend pass for $15. As I eluded to above, food and beverages are sold separately. Most food will sell for $2 to $6 and wines will be $6 to $8.
With WLOQ involved, as you might guess, there will be live music on the entertainment stage, including Saturday headliner Average White Band (presumably to complement the Little Black Dress). Another stage will feature cooking demonstrations by some of the area’s popular chefs, including jamie McFadden of Cuisiniers and Bram Fowler of Journeys at Alaqua.
For a look at all the restaurants, wineries, cooks and entertainers, check out the official and very user-friendly Orlando Food & Wine Fest Web site. You’ll also find a link where you can buy your tickets online. Save me a stool at the mobile sports bar.
