Gateway to India 790 East SR 434 Longwood, FL www.gatewaytoindiarestaurant.biz Goan spices and authentic Indian cuisine are frequent cravings for me. The Gateway to India is one of the best in the Orlando area for taste, however, I cannot say the same for the atmosphere, service, and price. Not to mention the four glass option wine list. The place is way to brightly lit for a date night cuddle, the staff only tends to you if you are the only one in there dining, and the prices are a bit high for the quality of overall experience. I have been to this place twice, once where my friend and I were the only ones in there, and once when we were seated near a party of about 25. The first time, we were waited on hand and foot. The second time, not so much. What really made it worse was that it wasn’t a “short… [Read more]

The Boheme 325 South Orange Ave. • Orlando, FL www.grandbohemianhotel.com This restaurant is located inside Downtown Orlando’s only luxury hotel. I say this to make it clear that there is only one of these, and therefore, the hotel seems to bank on the fact that if wealthy people want to dine downtown, they will do so in this place. The prices are very high for the quality of food and the staff are very unfriendly to anyone who is not “dressed the part”. I had the opportunity to dine in the Boheme during Restaurant Week, where the participating restaurants create a more affordable menu for those who love gourmet cuisine, yet cannot always afford a $50 steak. Usually the participants provide a 3 to 4 course meal that consists of smaller portions of their best dishes for between $25 and $45 a person. The Boheme seemed to spit on those who would take advantage of… [Read more]

Twisted Bamboo Bar and Bistro 3687 Tampa Road • Oldsmar, FL www.jacafe.net This restaurant has an atmosphere that makes you love the place before you even sit down.  The music has a mellow contemporary jazz feel and the staff is very friendly.  The seating is set up as to separate the intimate diners from the  loud fun of the bar patrons and each booth is equipped with backs so high that even a 6’5″ man cannot intrude on your conversation by just looking over the top.  There are pillows for your comfort and the tables are candle lit which makes this a great date night spot.   The covered outdoor seating is a nice compliment for those who enjoy the fresh air. The menu is mostly Asian inspired with a twist of Hawaiian flavors in addition to a selection of regional favorites like Beef Stroganoff, Pad Thai, and  Huli Huli Chicken.  There are several tempting choices… [Read more]

The Funky Monkey Wine Company 912 North Mills Avenue in Downtown Orlando, FL http://www.funkymonkeywine.com I provide the exact address because if you are not paying attention, you will definitely pass this place, as it’s a hidden gem nestled on a block in between a gas station and a Vietnamese noodle house.  However, as soon as you walk inside, it’s like you are in another world, away from the broken sidewalk you walked in on.  Complete with velvet couches and pillows, high dining tables for two, and regular tables for parties of 3 or more, this quaint little Asian wine bar is the perfect place for the intimacy of a first date or a fun celebration with friends.   The dim lighted atmosphere mixed with XM radio on the “chill” station makes for the perfect relaxing evening. The menu consists of affordable upscale dining and is owned by the President of the Tasters Guild of Orlando, a… [Read more]