The New Epitome of Street Food....

These days, street food can be found on every corner.  (Haha... get it?)

Eating out of a truck is now the norm. When I heard Asian street food... that is exactly what I expected on my way to Mamak. Then something very rare happened.....  I was wrong.

 

 

First, Mamak is absolutely gorgeous on the inside. Very modern and sleek. When I first arrived, right before diner, the place was empty. By the time I left, it was packed. The atmosphere is very welcoming with a huge communal table in the middle of the restaurant. While I love eating outside on a paper plate next to a gas station, I must admit this is a nice change of pace.

 

 

I love Asian Food. Give me some pad thai and I am set. So much so that a lot of places start to taste the same. Mamak does not fit into that mold.

 First... you have to try the Roti. "Malaysian Roti toasted til golden brown, crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside. Served with a spicy curry sauce."

 

  

I know what you're thinking... bread with curry sauce, what is the big deal?

 No. No. It IS a big deal. I have had dreams of this Roti every night since I tried it.

Best part?

After you fall in love with the appetizer, you can get it again for the desert with some chocolate sauce and bananas. Its the circle of the Mamak experience.

 

 

So the main course.... just as phenomenal. After asking the waiter for his suggestions, I ordered the Malaysian Coconut Kari. There are not enough words to describe all the flavors in this food. Seriously, why are you not at this restaurant right now? Why am I not writing this while eating at the restaurant??

 

 

 

Everything that came out of that kitchen looked perfect. It is probably good that I didn't sit at the communal table, because I would have eaten off of a stranger's plate without a second thought. If this is what Asian street food is really like... I'm ready to pack my bags.

 

 

 

The service? Impeccable. Our waiter, Marlon, was helpful and hysterical. Definitely follow his suggestions. He will be your Mamak Yoda.

 

 

 The food? Unequaled. Beyond compare. Out of this world. There are not enough clichés.....

 

 

 To make everything better....  4 appetizers, 2 main dishes, and desert.... the bill was under $35.00.

Tip... check in on yelp for some free edamame, It is worth it.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Laugh Your Way to Monday

A friend recently asked me about comedy in Orlando. The first and only sentence out of my mouth was "Daniel Tosh went to UCF!!" While yes, that is awesome (Go Knights!)... Orlando apparently has a pretty big comedy scene. We have several improv theaters around town and quite a few different venues that host open mic nights. Who knew? 
Well... a lot of people probably knew... but I was not one of them. 

I vowed I would check out this comedy scene ... and what a better place to start than the very first Orlando Indie Comedy Fest. Have you heard about this?
It is

4 Days 
(started last night)

 9  Venues
(Winter Park, Milk District, Mills area)

17 Shows
(Some early, some late, it will fit into your schedule somehow)

&

50 National Comics
(Of course, quite a few are from Central Florida which is AWESOME)

The real question is.... are they good??

 Last night, I caught the first show at the Geek Easy in Winter Park and I was honestly blown away at how funny these people are! Fresh material, great timing, and they read the crowd really well. You could easily see some of these faces on SNL or Comedy Central in  no time. I would love to embellish this with some examples of the jokes I heard.... but that would just be wrong.... so you'll have to check them out yourself.

Money wise? This is definitely worth your time. Only $5 a day! Even better... half the proceeds go to the National Alliance on Mental Illness of Greater Orlando. You're basically laughing for charity. 

Now before you get too excited when you see that Kyle Kinane is performing... his show is sold out. However, don't get too down because there are still several other shows you can see. Tonight is the Underwear Show  at Spacebar... where each comedian will perform in nothing but their underwear.  Love some food with your comedy?? There is a late breakfast show on Sunday... that includes  free pancakes. FREE PANCAKES. 

Check out the full schedule and line up here:
http://www.orlandoindiecomedy.com/fest/

An Encounter with the Past...

Like all great ghost stories, it began on a dark and rainy night on Church Street in Downtown Orlando. If you’ve ever been to the Church Street Station, you know that it has a very old time feel. The buildings have been restored and modeled to represent a past Orlando. However, most of the stories that you hear of Church Street are those of alcohol induced frolic, not of years gone by. Last night was different though. Last night those fire burning lanterns helped transfer me back in time to see past the partying of the night into the actual history of Orlando.

 

 

Whether you’re a firm believer, a skeptic, or just curious.... a night with the ghost ambassadors from American Ghost Adventures is guaranteed to be an interesting time that you will always remember. They offer several different tours in the Central Florida area throughout the year. The tour of Downtown Orlando met at Harry Buffalo’s last night, which used to be the old Orlando Hotel. We took an hour walk around a few blocks learning about various ghost sightings, interactions, and haunts. These are more than just stories to the ambassadors for most of them have actually had interactions with these ghosts when they’ve done investigations within the buildings. You will learn the three different type of ghost haunts and how they are able to research and communicate with the ghosts.

 

If you are a history buff, like me, I definitely recommend the tours because you get to learn the actual history of the areas. There were more brothels, graveyards and hospitals in Downtown Orlando than I had ever even imagined! Also, I had no idea that Ted Bundy was on trial in the old Orange County Courthouse which is now the Orange County History Center. I have so many interesting facts that I can now spout out about Downtown Orlando!

 

Do you notice what is on top of the pillars at the UCF building downtown? Urns! This used to be a funeral home!

 

One of the unique things that I love about this tour is that the second half is actually an interactive encounter, where you get to attempt to interact with actual ghosts. We went inside the Harry Buffalo, up to the third story, where it is believed to be haunted. We were provided with our own ghost hunting equipment and were able to walk around looking for activity. We also sat in one room and used the equipment to try to find out information about the spirit(s) in the room. This allows each tour to be a different and unique experience.

If it flashes up past green.. it may be a spirit. Mine kept going off; I'm apparently popular with ghosts

 

I cannot say for certain that I am a true believer, but I am curious and I love history. I have been on several ghost tours before in different cities within the US and I must say that American Ghost Adventures is my favorite. This was my second tour with them (I did the one through the Greenwood Cemetery downtown) and I would definitely do another. They provide a fun environment, a few laughs and an accurate history. As for whether or not the ghosts exist, that is up for you to decide….. so you better book a tour soon!

 

You can book your tour at www.americanghostadventures.com

 

Just Six Minutes....

Sixteen guys. Six minute conversations. Long enough to really know someone? No…. but it definitely creates a starting point.

 

 

Last night I went speed dating for the first time and it was a rush to say the least.  Hosted at Taps in Winter Park, the whole scene was highly picturesque. Little numbered tables and couches, a score sheet to keep your notes on, and a bell that dictates the whole night. The women stay seated at their assigned tables while the men move each time the bell rings. Luckily, I was able to order a drink to calm my nerves ever so slightly before the night began.

At the end of the night, you get to mark down who you were interested in and who you were not. The next morning, emails are dispersed from the host… you get the email address of everyone that liked you and it is up to you where to go from there. So many potential future dates/friends from just one night!

I must say, if you’re looking to meet new people… this is a highly efficient way to do so. The event called for all single professionals from 21-32. The daters came from all over the Central Florida area, as far out as DeLand and Ocala. One guy had actually just moved to Orlando last week from another state! Their careers were just as diverse; there were people in hospitality, law, service, entertainment, and sales to name a few.  It was a great opportunity to meet people I probably never would have otherwise.

In hindsight, I made a LOT of mistakes at speed dating. It was still a great time and I now have veteran advice…

·         Take the time to TAKE NOTES on the people you meet. Something as simple as their job, or a key word about the conversation will help you in the end. You have to mark the people you want to hear from… so it is very important to remember who everyone is.  (I did not do this. I did not remember every conversation. I ended up marking everyone yes because I was in a rush at the end. Do not do that!)

·         Try to keep the conversation original. I think every single person asked me “what do you do for a living” and/or “what do you do for fun?” Those are great questions to get to know someone… but you have SIX minutes to be memorable! Ask something different!!! Stand out!!!!! (My perfect question was… Time Travel- do you travel to the future or the past?!)

·         The most important thing is to be yourself. Let your awkwardness show! Do not act shy!!! You’re not losing anything by showing these people your true personality. There is no reason to hold back because in the end you only have to spend a few minutes with them.

 I actually went with my friend that is a guy and I do recommend going with a friend of the opposite sex if you don’t want to go alone. It was great because we had a unique opener and you kind of get a six minute break when you two finally sit together.  If you go with someone of the same sex, you run into the dilemma of liking the same person and being competition.  

If you’re single, try it! In the end, I met sixteen super nice guys, had a fun night out, and was able to cross something off my bucket list.   Pre-Dating Speed Dating offers an event every month… the next one on July 15^th. You can sign up here http://www.pre-dating.com/orlando-speed-dating . The host, Roy, is extremely helpful and can answer any questions you may have.

Oh yes, one more piece of advice… DO NOT SHOW UP LATE! They have to wait on everyone to arrive before the event can begin… so when you’re late, it is definitely noticed.

A Taste of Sanford....

I have never spent a lot of time in Sanford, except for at the Zoo. After today, that will definitely change! I heard about A Taste of Sanford a few months ago and knew it was something I had to try. Within my first few minutes, I fell in love with the small town feel mixed with a sophisticated cultural taste.

Located on Lake Monroe (which is gorgeous), this event was free to attend! If you wanted to try anything, you could purchase tickets for food at the entrance. I thought this was a great take on a food festival since it made the event wallet friendly for large families.

Hosted by the Greater Sanford Regional Chamber of Commerce, the event featured local restaurants, artisans, crafters and live music.

All food vendors were local, making this a fantastic way to try some new restaurants in the area!

Riverwalk Pizza, located in Downtown Sanford, was serving up some Italian favorites including their delectable lasagna.

Wishful Concepts Catering was proving that they are not just around for weddings and events; they also provide personal chef services! After seeing what they could cook up today, I would definitely consider a personal chef!

Shrimp and Grits never looked so good.

The Breezeway Restaurant and Bar is another local Sanford treasure. I could tell that they were definitely a favorite in Sanford since they knew all the locals personally.

The Golf Club of DeBary was serving up a storm at the event. Apparently their restaurant is open to the public! After seeing their new unique menu, I will definitely have to stop in!

In addition to the locally owned businesses, local representatives for chain restaurants were serving as well. Kids were able to get their favorites from places such as Joe's Crab Shack and Ale House.

A Taste of Sanford was more than just food though. A variety of other local artisans and crafters attended the event. These rescues were looking for love while Pet Rescue by Judy was spreading the word about responsible adoptions and spaying/neutering your pet.

Inside the civic center, local vendors and stores were set up with free samples, giveaways and contests.



Happy Bee Honey



Park Ave Popcorn Shoppe

New this year a Kid Zone was added! Face painting, bounce houses, slides and cotton candy all guaranteed kids a great time!

Oh did I mention all the coupons they were giving away? I seriously think I could eat for a week off of all of these coupons alone!

You can get all the complete details on the vendors of this event at www.taste-of-Sanford.com

 If you missed this event, I definitely recommend attending the next one! You can keep a look out on things to do in Sanford at  www.visitseminole.com 



I always kind of figured it was a myth.....

I always kind of figured it was a myth. Then... one magical night downtown... I found it.

  

 

 The Vegan Hot Dog Cart.

 

 Its real.

 

And it  is DELICIOUS.

 

Vegan, Carnivore, Omnivore.... Whatever your meat-eating preference, I promise this will be the best hot dog you have ever devoured.

 

 

Before you write this off as crazy, hear me out. I am a person that never goes downtown.. just because I'm not big into the club scene. However, within two weeks, I have made three trips to this hot dog cart. I'm pretty sure the guy that runs the place is going to think I'm a stalker. The Chili Cajun Hot Dog is 100% worth it though... I have no regrets.

 

 

The Vegan Hot Dog Cart is locally owned and ran by three friends. (Eat Locally!)  

You can catch them every night downtown on Orange Ave (seriously, a vegan downtown option is amazing)... from 9pm to 3am.

If this is past your bedtime, you can catch them every other Tuesday at Tasty Tuesdays (hopefully EVERY Tuesday soon).

They also work different veggie events around town, most frequently Earth Day at Lake Eola.

 

 

 

They have a few different options... some quite unusual.

 The Kimchi dog (think Korean BBQ) is next on my list to try.

They have recently been featuring a Holiday Dog, which is basically like eating  Thanksgiving in a bun. The hot dog is covered in Cranberries.. it sounds weird... but it is sweet and somehow amazing.

 

 

My current obsession is the Chili Dog. Infused with Cajun flavoring, covered in chili and vegan cheese ( both made by them) and topped with fried onions. Oh, it sounds like heartburn, but its 100% Vegan.

 It will leave you will feeling satisfied, slightly spicy and completely addicted.

 

Do not let this majestic opportunity pass you up.

 Go.

As soon as possible.

(I already have plans to go tomorrow.)

 

https://www.facebook.com/TheVeganHotDogCart

 

 



The Most Fun You Will Have Downtown... For Only $10

I am not usually the person that is found hanging out downtown. On one rare night, I was down on Wall Street (for the first time ever) and I found myself staring at some guy dressed as Marty McFly. I couldn't figure it out... what was this guy doing?. A moment later, I noticed Madonna talking up Where's Waldo. Then.... then I saw Nightrider walking around, with a car and all.

 No it was not Comic-con nor Mega-con. It was the once a moth event known as Orlando Pub Crawl. With awesome themes, four free drinks, free cover for four bars and an unforgettable night... all for $10! Even if you're not a big club/party person (which I am not).... this event is still for you.

Unfortunately, I had missed the awesomeness of the 80's Pub Crawl and I vowed not to miss the next awesome theme. Last night, The Walking Dead Pub Crawl happened and it was anything but dead.
For a few extra bucks, you could get your make up done at the bar. Of course, with normal Orlando flare, most people did their own make-up and costumes.... and it was PHENOMINAL.



My friend Ryan as a character from Walking Dead



There were show characters, there were survivors, there were zombies, and there were normal humans that just wanted to drink. No matter how you were dressed, you were guaranteed a smashing time. Random fans were taking pictures with each others left and right. Fandoms were mixed, mingled and created. One guy even brought a box of twinkles... (think Zombieland). Friends were made all around.



Vegan Zombie "Grains Not Brains"

This five hour downtown night was truly unforgettable. We got into four different clubs,  with a free drink at each one and two dollar specials all night.  Walking between the bars, we definitely freaked out some pedestrians which was unintentional but totally worth it. Each bar was mingled with pub crawlers and people that had no idea what was going on. It was quite entertaining.

 

 I was actually lucky enough to go with a group of friends that were really into the event. We even were able to get a special effects artist to do our makeup before we went.



If you have an event and need some professional make up, please contact me for her info! She is amazing!

I definitely suggest looking for a theme coming up that you're into... getting a group together... and going all out. It was invigorating going down town and not having to worry about heels, make-up, hair or how you look. Instead the focus was on the costume and just having fun!

If you want to see some far better pictures- please check out Orlando Pub Crawl's Facebook page to see their official photographs!  I was way too busy having fun to capture shots. Also  don't forget to follow them on FB to find out about the next crawl. Www.orlandopubcrawl.com

An Unofficial Self-Proclaimed Insider Look at Universal...

 

 

I have a friend that recently moved to Florida and the other day when we were chatting I asked if he had ever been to Universal. He said he had and he finished the whole park in two hours. TWO HOURS! I was flabbergasted! Universal is one of my favorite places on Earth and he finished the whole park in TWO HOURS!! Once I picked my jaw up off the floor, I realized he we went with another Florida resident and she gave him the tour... the I've been here a million times, let's ride the coasters and leave tour. I seriously mulled over this for days because it bothered me so much. I realized that we are spoiled here in Orlando and we take advantage of the wondrous world in our own back yard. Places that as a child living in Ohio I only dreamed I would be able to visit. Even worse... we are allowing our bad habits to rub off on others.

 

 

 I say get rid of your "Let's hit the rides and leave" mentality and take in everything there is to do at Universal Orlando! I decided to do an unofficial blog about all the wonders at Universal that I, a self-proclaimed insider, love.

 

 

 

 So here we go..... (Please imagine your own movie theme music at this time... preferably the score from Back to the Future).

 

Old Hollywood

 

 

Whenever I enter Universal.... I cannot resist going into the Lucy Tribute. Even if you're not a huge I Love Lucy fan, it is still a great look at Hollywood History and how television production used to be. They also have a great array of old Hollywood novelties you cannot find in other stores.

 

 

For me, a lot of the great things in life are in the details... so I suggest you pay attention to the signs at Universal. Keep reading and you'll understand why. This is probably the only version of Rodeo Dr. I could afford to shop on....

 

 

 

This may be my favorite store... ever. I mean, come on it is shaped like a bowler hat! And it sells hats!! Every kind of hat, so stop in and try some on. It is here that I learned I could never rock Marge Simpson's haircut.

 

 

As Weezer says.... Beverly Hills, that's where I want to be! Take the right selfie with this sign and your gullible friend on Facebook might actually believe you're in Cali.

 

 

It wouldn't really be Hollywood without stars would it? The walk of fame is here!

 

 

You can also find quite a few of your favorite actors/actresses walking around too such as Betty Boop and Marilyn Monroe. Get ready for that new profile picture!

 

 

Terminator 2 is definitely one of the classics but when is the last time that you helped Arnold Schwarzenegger save  human kind? This show is amazing! Half live actors... have recorded... full of adventure! It's also kind of a kick to see what they predicted future technology to be and how far we've come. So come with me if you want to live have fun.

 

 

I am truly embarrassed at the number of times I passed this building without realizing that it really is a LIVE MAGIC SHOW! If you pass by while the doors are open, go in! It features several magic tricks that are sure to delight. These magicians do reveal their secrets... so if the kids (or you) are really into it, you can even buy a kit for each trick that teaches you how to do it.

 

 

While you're walking down the street, take time to look inside these store windows. They are so detailed. If you're really lucky, you may find some cleverly hidden references.

 

 

Located on top of the Horror Makeup Show is this sign for McCurdy and Sons Photo-Graphics. Perhaps named after Arthur McCurdy who developed the portable tank for developing film??

 

 

Speaking of the Horror Makeup Show... if you make one stop in Hollywood it HAS to be this! This show is a non-stop riot. It takes you behind the scenes with a horror makeup artist to see how they use movie magic to make creatures come to life. Universal takes a second to laugh at some pretty horrible creations they've had but they also highlight the progress and changes within the industry that allow the use of the CGI transformations we see today. It's great for all ages.

  

 

 

Stop here at the right time and you can join some of your favorite characters from Despicable Me and Hop for a dance party!! Make sure to check a map for the times for Universal's Superstar Parade.

 

 

Getting hungry yet? Stop by one of the grooviest places around for some fries and a shake... Mel's Drive-In. Does the name sound familiar? Versions of Mel's have been featured in various movies such as Guess Who's Coming to Dinner and American Graffiti.

 

 

I always take time to stroll back in the Garden of Allah Villas. It's absolutely beautiful and a great spot to take pictures. It is almost always empty because everyone just walks on by...

 

 

Does the name sound familiar? Well it should. Garden of Allah Villas was located on the Sunset Strip and was a temporary home for numerous famous people including F. Scott Fitzgerald. 

 

 

Woody Woodpecker's Kidzone

  

Don't let the heading fool you... let's be honest you want to hang out here too. If you haven't... well you are missing out! While sure... only kids can ride Woody's rollercoaster, there are a ton of things you can do to feel like a kid again!

 

 

 SpongeBob Storepants is more than just a store... Inside you can often find SpongeBob or Patrick waiting to take pictures. You can also climb inside SpongeBob's pineapple and see Gary!

 

 

 ET is waiting for you to help him fly home! What other ride lets you ride a flying bike into outer space?? Sure... it has been around for a while but it is a classic!  Plus, no other ride actually says your name at the end of it!!!

 

 

Fievel Goes West was one of my favorites as a kid and it is a blast to go into now! Climb around giant props to feel like a kid again. It also makes awesome Instagram pics.

 

 

 

Normal Florida weather means that you're probably a little hot right now...

 

Follow George's footsteps through this water area to stay dry! Or if you want... go your own way, splash, play and cool down.

 

If you catch someone unaware... you can surprise splash them which is just as fun as it was when you were a kid!

 

Need to dry off? Tired of walking? Take a break and hang out with some of the best actors around...

 

This show is adorable. It is also a great place to catch some of your favorite characters including the pug from Men in Black.

 

It is absolutely mandatory that you stop and admire these props from Back to the Future.

 

I now request a moment of silence for contemplating how great this trilogy is.

Springfield

Whether you're a Simpson fan or not, it is amazing how Universal transformed this area that was originally just the Simpsons' Ride into a real life Springfield.

 

If you haven't eaten yet... this is the perfect time. They have donuts, hamburgers, chicken and a taco truck.

 

 Thirsty? You can even stop by Moe's Tavern for a Flaming Moe or a Duff Beer

 



 

 World Expo

Nothing says fun like some friendly competition....

 

 

Which is exactly what you'll find at Men in Black. Want some tips? Listen for the announcement to hit the red button and score some major points. If your team scores high enough, at the end... they will give you the suit. Moral of the story? Aim well and go for the SUIT!!

 

 

Where else could you get the opportunity to do Fear Factor?? Why not auction to do it for the day. I have yet to do this but it is definitely on my UO bucket list!!

 

Harry Potter!!

 

 

Okay so it's not open yet... but they have a great view of the progress!

 

 

 

You're probably wondering why I added a picture of the fence surrounding the construction... that's because this is not just an ordinary fence. Downloaded the ScreenPLAY app for your phone and watch these posters come to life. The Jurassic Park poster is definitely worth your time... it looks like the T-Rex is coming out of the poster! Bravo Universal, bravo!

 

San Francisco

 

Welcome back to California for an amazing time!

 

 

You probably remember the attraction Earthquake... well it got a makeover. Follow director Christopher Walken (Yes that Christopher Walken) as he gives you the opportunity to be in his next action movie. Try to sit up front so you get chosen!! In the end, you even get to watch it! It is so worth the time.

 

 

Missing Jaws yet? I am. At least you can still take your picture with him at the pier.

 

This may just be a candy store.. but you should go inside. They have great gifts you can take home... or eat there if you have a major sweet tooth! Watch out though because they do sell flavored bugs. Yes. Bugs.

 

I had always just walked by Beetlejuice until last year and now I totally regret it. This show... which recently received an update... is a true monster bash!

 

New York 

 

 

Time to head back to the East Coast... and of course... there is a Starbucks here. Or if you prefer, there is also a Ben and Jerry's.

Much like the Hollywood area... New York is filled with history and beautiful sights. The Empire Hotel is a famous hotel in New York.

If you have Irish ancestry... this store is a must. You can look up your family's symbol. It also comes available to buy on mugs, key chains, etc.

There's areas of New York that you can walk through and they are just stunning and almost always empty. Once again... look closely at the signs. You may find some hidden meanings.

 

Finnegan's bar and grill has the most delicious french fries in the park. I definitely recommend eating here if you haven't stopped for food yet.

My favorite ride at Universal is the Mummy. You should ride it numerous times. Seriously, it is that good. It actually used to be King Kong... if you look closely you may be able to find the statue of him still inside the ride!

 

While Super Hero Island is next door... you can catch the Metropolis Tribune here at Universal.

 

There is no subway... but this definitely gives the feel of New York and it is a great photo op.

 

 

Production Central

Production Central is the area where you will find numerous new and exciting rides! But first... there is a classic.

 

Be honest with yourself... when was the last time you actually went through Twister? It's time you do it again.

 

 Rip Ride and Rocket is phenomenal. Jump on this one of a kind roller coaster, choose your own background music, and take off. While waiting in line, you can look up codes for extra song choices on your phone!

 

Put on your ogre vision goggles and go on adventure with your favorite fairy tale creatures. Pay attention when you leave the attraction, the characters might be out for photo opportunities. 

Another 3D adventure is right across the sidewalk with Despicable Me. Be prepared for a cute storyline and a very awesome time. The line for this ride is can be really long due to high popularity... so try to hit it up first thing in the morning!

 

 

The newest attraction is Transformers and it is everything you hoped it would be. I don't want to give anything away so that is all I will say... besides RIDE IT SOON!! I also recommend hitting this up early in the morning before it gets super busy.

 

 

With everything there is to see and do at Universal... it will definitely take more than two hours. Turn off Netflix for a day and actually spend the whole day exploring this wondrous place that is right down the road. If you haven't seen the Cinematic Spectacular at night it is amazing. Check online to see what nights it is running. Also, don't forget Mardi Gras is still going on for the next month!!