One of the perks of publishing is getting to preview food and wine events – and Magical Dining month is definitely a foodie happening you don’t want to miss. For my sneak peek I visited DoveCote, a brasserie located downtown in the Bank of America building, that I have fallen in love with in the short year they have been open. The décor is divine and Chef Clay Miller has created dozens of delicious reasons to dine over and over – at brunch, lunch or dinner.
For the Magical Dining menu, I started with the Chilled Mulligatawny (pepper water) Soup, a beautiful combination of madras curry, coconut, cauliflower and apple. The flavors melded so well I could have slurped up a second bowl. The other appetizer choice is the Tomato Water Risotto, which is a favorite on the regular menu.
The entrée choices included the Breaded Pork Cutlet with lemon beurre blanc, brown butter caper sauce, white wine and a Gruyere cheese pancake. My table mates raved over this, but I opted for the Atlantic Salmon with quinoa, olive, kale, almond, spiced yogurt. With several courses, I decided to be somewhat healthy on this course. I loved all the textures and color.
Finally – for something I do not normally order – the desserts included Vanilla Crème Brulee or Olive Oil Cake with Strawberry. This was an easy one. I mean, who can resist the delicate, crispy crunch of fired up sugar on top of a silky smooth custard. It lived up to all expectations.
There is a very nice wine list at DoveCote and your server can guide you to what you already love or something new for a surprising pairing. Valet is available; although the nearby parking garage is also an option.
Celebrate Orlando’s amazing culinary scene during Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining Month, sponsored by American Express. Continuing through October 1, more than 100 Orlando area restaurants will offer prix fixe dinners for just $35. Indulge in imaginative appetizers, entrées and desserts sure to leave you spellbound. Through Visit Orlando, one dollar from each meal supports Freedom Ride and BASE Camp Children’s Cancer Foundation. For a complete list of participating restaurants and menus, visit http://www.visitorlando.com/magicaldining.
We also recommend checking out our following partners:
Ruth’s Chris Steak House – Lake Mary, Winter Park and Sand Lake Road
A Land Remembered and Calla Bella– Rosen Shingle Creek
Everglades Restaurant – Rosen Centre Hotel
Jack’s Place – Rosen Plaza Hotel
Ravello – Four Seasons Resort Orlando
Maxine’s on Shine – Thornton Park
David’s Club – The Omni Resort ChampionsGate
Bulla Gastrobar – Winter Park