Eating big in a small town

At first glance, Bernie’s Gourmet to Go wouldn’t catch your eye, but a closer look and find an inviting hotspot of hometown tradition. Bernie’s keeps a cozy atmosphere where everyone can feel at home, and the food reflects that. From traditional dinners that change every night, to the variety of chicken salad flavors, Bernie’s provides food that tastes like Mom’s, without her having to ma...

At first, Fire on the Bayou sounded like a Western song my grandpa listens to while he reads the newspaper. By the time I figured out it was a restaurant it seemed like the last place I wanted to go, but I am glad I did. Fire on the Bayou is a New Orleans-style Cajun restaurant with a huge menu; po boys, gumbo, jambalaya-you name it, they have it.  I am partial to the shrimp and grits. A lot of pe...

When you think of a landlocked suburb of Orlando, sushi is the last thing that comes to mind, but Sushi Pop has changed that. The edgy lounge and bar is designed to look the part of a modern Japanese anime, that makes just sitting in the dining room an event. The sushi bar is in full display with expert chefs working diligently behind it.  The food is amazing. So much so that celebrity chef Emeril Lagas...

Cafe Rio provides a new take on traditional Mexican food and drink. They have a variety of meats that will leave the family satisfied. I recommend the sweet pork quesadilla with a side of chips and queso. The quesadilla is oozing with cheese and pork that is tender and flavorful, and the homemade tortillas are the icing on the cake. They have a station set up, so you can see the tortillas being mad...

A canadian steakhouse isn't something you see every day, but Le Celier was a pleasant surprise. This is a great special-occasion spot to go with the family. The steak is some of the best you will ever have, and everyone there treats you with true Canadian friendliness.  The menu changes with the seasons, and so far, the fall options do not disappoint. We ordered the filet mignon with mushroom r...

De La Vega is a Spanish fusion restaurant that packs a punch with its flavors. Just like a tapas bar in Spain, De La Vega’s menu is made up of a collection of appetizers and cocktails. The swanky lounge overlooks Oviedo on the Park, which makes for good scenery and good food.   Between plantain tacitas and sundried tomato steak salad, it is hard to order wrong. The call to fame, however, is thei...