Orlando

Well, I survived my first trade show in Orlando. It certainly wasn't stress-free, but the amount of relief felt after the fact more than made up for it. Unfortunately, beyond the show being an unbelievable learning experience for me, the city of Orlando (or at least the part around the Convention Center) is one of the tackiest places I've ever been in my entire life. If anyone has been to Pigeon Forge Tennessee (home of Dollywood!), let me just compare it to a watered-down version of that. I've never seen so many Denny's in my entire life in such a small area. Brunch clearly was not even an afterthought to these people. Ugh.

The redeeming culinary value of Orlando was found in the unlikeliest of places. Next to our hotel, in a completely standard tacky strip mall (think liquor stores and Subway) there was nestled a small, unassuming Italian restaurant called Ciao Italia. Thankfully a coworker who'd gotten to Florida before me had unwittingly stumbled across it and returned singing its praises. Being somewhat of a food snob (unbelievable, I know), I had low expectations, but was pleasantly surprised with the atmosphere inside. There were plenty of tables for large parties, white napkins, a great wine list, and a casual attitude with what seemed to be a very nicely put together menu.

We started with the Bruschetta al Pomodoro, which was FRESH FRESH FRESH. I maybe snuck a few pieces of calamari from my co-workers plate... and enjoyed it thoroughly. I also split a bottle of St. Andrews Pinot Grigio, which is one of the most flavorful ones I've had in a long time. I ultimately settled on the Penne alla Contadina (penne with imported prosciutto di parma, mushrooms, and peppers in a light tomato basil sauce.) It. was. fantastic. Just a fabulous, melt in your mouth experience. Their saucier should be given a raise and offered a 24 hour harem at his disposal. The prosciutto was flawless, the mushrooms were fresh, and the pasta could not have been cooked more perfectly.

Feeling full, I packed up half to eat later in my hotel room, but when they brought us out dessert menus, I couldn't help myself. My boss and I split a New York cheesecake and their Tartufo Nero (let's just say it involved chocolate, hazelnut, and a creamy center that I can't even describe). I mean, I LIKE cheesecake, but there is a huge difference between even mediocre cheesecake and GOOD cheesecake. I think it's a safe bet that this was by far the lightest, tastiest, and most wonderful cheesecake my tongue has ever been privileged enough to experience.

In fact, the next day after raving about it to our reps at the show, they asked if I would be opposed to going again the next night. Um, no. I would not be opposed to that. Not only was it fabulous, the alternative is Denny's, so yeah I think I can manage a repeat. This time I started with a Peroni and a Caesar salad (I love it when the dressing is a bit more oily and not just a straight cream- to die for) and a basket of garlic bread was gladly torn into by our party. This time I opted for the Ravioli de Pesce (Artisian ravioli stuffed with mixed seafood in a vodka basil sauce.) Keep in mind I was THIS impressed with the lower end of the price spectrum. Others who went even more balls out than I reached levels of ecstasy that until then were uncalculated.

From the rest of the party, their lasagna was impeccable, the salmon was just ridiculously orgasmic, and the veal chop was melt in your mouth excellent. In no way was I disappointed, and my expectations were blown out of the water. If you ever find yourself in this city dedicated to mass consumerism and commercialism, take a moment to locate this hidden gem on Westwood Blvd. You won't regret it, and maybe, just maybe, pass this info along and together we can give Denny's a blow they won't soon forget. Chalk up one more for the little guy!