Special Menu at Emeril's Orlando for Valentine's Day

Want to make Valentine's Day special this year? A restaurant where I experienced one of the most fabulous meals of my life is offering some affordable specials on February 14. 

At Emeril's Universal Citywalk, Chef de cuisine Bernard Carmouche created a special four-course tasting menu and a selection of special appetizers, entrees and desserts in addition to the restaurant’s regular menu.

The Chef's Tasting Menu, at $60 per guest, features an Amuse Bouche, Salmon Carpaccio, Butternut Squash Tortellini, Beef Wellington, and Limoncello Mousse. Also on special are: Grilled Bone-in Strip Steak, Grilled Lobster, and Black & Blue salmon.

I love the ambiance and high quality of food at Emeril's Universal Citywalk. Even if you don't get there for Valentine's Day, make a reservation soon for dinner. While you're there, you must try Emeril's New Orleans Barbecue Shrimp and Andouille Gumbo.

For Valentine's Day menu and reservations, visit: http://www.emerilsrestaurants.com/article/valentines-day-emerils-orlando. 

Unique Lunch Fare Awaits at Dexter's

Why I sometimes forget about Dexter's for lunch is beyond me. But I am so glad I was reminded of the extensive lunch menu and value for the money that Dexter's restaurants in Lake Mary, Winter Park and Thorton Park offer customers.

Dining recently at the Lake Mary location with a friend, I was a little worried about the kind of experience I would have. That was because I had previously visited Dexter's Lake Mary for brunch on a busy Sunday. It was difficult to get good, friendly service and there were not as many brunch options as I had hoped.

Setting that experience aside, I was pleasantly surprised when I opened the lunch menu to see a full page of lunch menu specials for the day. Everything from sandwiches to salads to seafood meals. Plus, we had the option of ordering off Dexter's regular menu. There, you can order their amazing sweet potato fries, one of their many delicious burgers, pastas, and comfort food such as Eggplant Napoleon and Chicken Tortilla Pie.

My friend ordered the Corsican Salad, which features baby greens, marinated artichokes, greek olives, feta cheese and Mesquite Grilled Chicken. The full salad for $9.95 is a great value, with a humongous chicken breast on top and enough for leftovers. Plus, the salad was very flavorful and unique. I ordered the mahi lunch special with grilled mahi, rice pilaf and asparagus. The mahi was cooked right, and it was huge portion for under $13.

We will definitely be back for lunch again soon. What is your favorite meal or drink at Dexter's? Let me know in the comments section below.