Category: Featured Articles

There’s nothing quite like a sweet, juicy orange on a warm spring day—or perhaps a slice of our fresh Florida Orange Cake! But if one bite isn’t enough, an orange adventure across the Sunshine State is sure to satisfy.

Read on as we share a few of our favorite local spots for orange aficionados!

St. Augustine

St. Augustine may be known more for its colonial allure than citrus groves—but as it turns out, America’s Oldest City actually played an important role in the Sunshine State’s orange scene!

Christopher Columbus brought the orange to the New World, but it was likely Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de Leon (the namesake for many familiar Florida destinations) who planted the first orange trees in St. Augustine. The rest, as they say, is history. As Florida grew its citrus scene did, too, and forever the Sunshine State came to be known for its warm, sunny climate and deliciously juicy oranges.

Florida Citrus Tower, Clermont

Located in Clermont, the 226-foot Florida Citrus Tower stands as a proud homage to the state’s vibrant history. A midcentury marvel, it was opened in 1956 to give travelers the chance to admire Florida’s orange groves as far as the eye could see. Today, much of Central Florida’s landscape has changed—people live, work and play where many of those old groves used to grow. But the Citrus Tower is still a great place to visit on your orange adventure, and offers up beautiful lake views and glimpses at the thriving theme park scene just a few miles away.

Al’s Family Farms, Fort Pierce

Of course, Florida’s landscape may have changed—but there are still plenty of groves producing the sweet, tangy treat we all love. One of them is Al’s Family Farms in Fort Pierce. Tours run through April 12^th, and offer visitors the chance to get a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the farm’s wash-line and packinghouse. Kids will love the O.J. Corral, and the whole crew will enjoy sampling fresh fruit and fresh-squeezed juice.

Mixon Fruit Farms, Bradenton

Over on the West Coast, Bradenton’s Mixon Fruit Farms offer up another sweet adventure. This destination offers a day’s worth of fun and fruity treats—you will find a kids’ Amazing Play Place, gorgeous grounds for a picnic, and, of course, the Orange Blossom Express. On this family tram ride, you will be able to explore the grove, learn more about citrus, and even see rescued reptiles, birds and other animals who call the farms “home.” Be sure to grab a bite (and, of course, some fresh-squeezed orange juice) at the Groveside Café before sending an orange gift, or perhaps some Mixon’s Wine, to someone sweet!

Orange World, Kissimmee

For all things orange, no trip to Central Florida would be complete without a stop at Orange World. Its bright orange-shaped roof is impossible to miss (perfect for a sweet photo op), and inside is an abundance of Sunshine State gifts and delicious treats like Florida honey, orange marmalade and even orange butter to try when you’re back home.

Craving an orange right about now? We’ve got you covered with our Florida Orange Cake, a local treat that features decadent three-layer cake, orange Bavarian cream, shaved white chocolate and a housemade blood orange whipped cream—a cool, citrusy touch that caps off this truly vibrant dessert.

The Florida Orange Cake joins Carpaccio, Six Cheese Lobster Mac and Macadamia Encrusted Mahi Mahi on Stonewood’s latest Seasonal Flavors Menu, a selection of chef inspired creations you’re sure to love. Pair your orange dessert with one of these delicious entrees for a meal to remember! We look forward to seeing you soon. 

Great company, a friendly atmosphere—and, of course, delicious Irish-inspired bites and beverages! Here at Stonewood, we’ve got all you need for a perfect St. Patty’s Day.

All weekend long, we will be serving up flavorful holiday treats inspired by the Emerald Isle itself, alongside your favorite Stonewood go-tos. We’ve also got ideas for planning the perfect St. Patrick’s Day staycation!

Take a look below and see what’s on the menu, at dinner and beyond.

Indulge in Irish refreshments

It wouldn’t be St. Patrick’s Day without some delicious drinks to enjoy with friends! We have two tasty options to savor. For just $3, you can enjoy the famously creamy flavor of Guinness stout—a true Irish tradition. Or opt for the citrusy spark in our Irish Mule, a tasty spin on the classic that features whiskey in place of vodka. The result? A fresh, exciting take that’s delicious and perfectly apropos on St. Patrick’s Day.

Dig in with friends

Be sure to come hungry, because we’ve got you covered with dinner, too! Pair your glass of Guinness with its perfect match, a plate of our Guinness Glazed Stout Wings. We’ve tossed our house-breaded wings in a Guinness, honey, soy and garlic glaze that’s sure to satisfy—served alongside crispy seasoned waffle chips, it’s a true St. Patty’s treat.

For dessert, a rich, chocolatey option will blend beautifully with the roasted notes in your Guinness. Try our Chocolate Mousse Cake or decadent Chocolate Bread Pudding for the perfect finale to your dinner. It’s a day of celebration, after all, so dig into something truly special!

Explore the Sunshine State, St. Patty’s style

You don’t need to travel all the way to Ireland to enjoy some classic St. Patrick’s Day revelry! All across the Sunshine State, there are opportunities for friends and families alike to enjoy a sunny staycation they’re sure to love.

Over in Tampa, the River O’Green Gallop is a great way to enjoy the warm weather while also getting your green on—they’re dyeing the Tampa Riverwalk green! You can also take part in a scavenger hunt around the Downtown Tampa area, with the grand prize being a four-day Cayman Islands vacation. It doesn’t get much better than that!

Of course, if you crave a taste of the islands a little closer to home, why not check out the Emerald Coast? Like the Emerald Isle itself, this region of Florida (located in the northwest section of the state) boasts beautiful views—in Florida’s case, by way of beautiful coastal waters that shine in teal-turquoise brilliance. Explore Crab Island, go snorkeling or simply kick back and relax. You don’t need much to enjoy the perfect staycation around here.

For a burst of green, verdant landscapes, you can also head to the natural escape that is Ocala! Take a leisurely hike or go kayaking in the city’s famous Silver Springs, where you’re sure to fall in love with the canopy of color and sparkling clear waters ahead. Plus, Ocala is a sister city to Newbridge in Ireland’s County Kildare, so visiting over St. Patrick’s Day weekend is especially fitting.

Craving Irish flavors and fun? Reserve a table, bring your friends and come down to Stonewood and see where the St. Patty’s spirit takes you!

 

Mild weather. Bright, sunny skies. Colorful produce and delicious handmade goodies as far as the eye can see. It’s official—Florida’s farmers’ market season is in full swing.

Now is the perfect time of year to explore these local hot spots, where friends, families, farmers, and artisans come together to celebrate the delight of fresh, quality goods and shopping al fresco. While many of these markets are open all year-round, the mild weather and abundance of in-season eats means that this is truly the best time of year to get out and enjoy this unique experience. And there’s a lot to experience.

Whether you’re a local or simply to embark on an in-state getaway, here are a few of our favorite farmers’ markets around the state. Just read on to see what makes each so special!

Florida Keys Farmers’ Market

We’re starting our virtual adventure in the Florida Keys, where a flip-flops-friendly culture and ocean breeze lend themselves to farmers’ market fun every week. It’s a place where you simply want to spend every minute outside anyway… which is why the Florida Keys Farmers’ Market in Islamorada works so well. Between dips in the ocean or leisurely bike rides along the waterfront, treat yourself to the simple pleasure of shopping for fresh produce, seafood, pastries and even local island-inspired art you can’t find anywhere else. You can even pick up the colorful veggies and Floribbean flavorings to complement your own catch-of-the-day!

The laid back, feel-good atmosphere comes in by way of the sea breeze—and with every whiff of that familiar, salty air, you’re reminded of just how lucky you are to be shopping in paradise in the middle of January.

When to go: Sundays, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

West Palm Beach GreenMarket

The West Palm Beach GreenMarket is a seasonal treat that rolls in every winter and lingers until mid-spring—so it’s perfect for those who flock to Florida as their warm-weather hideaway every year. Located in Downtown West Palm Beach, the GreenMarket is a bustling event. The community comes alive to partake in this beloved tradition, held by the gorgeous waterfront, to snack on cider doughnuts and crepes, or to pick out fresh produce and gourmet cheese to bring home for dinner… to name just a few goodies! More than 90 vendors in total take part in the fun, so there’s more than enough to do and see. We say you might even need to come back a second weekend to really get your fill.

After the market, head to the family-friendly activities that abound throughout West Palm Beach. From the market, you can stroll along Clematis Street and grab a bite to eat for brunch or lunch, then be sure to head to nearby Manatee Lagoon, an FPL clean energy center where wild manatees lick to gather due to its warm water. It’s truly a sight to see, and you can check it out all season through March 31^st!

When to go: Saturdays through April 20^th, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Sarasota Farmers’ Market

Another must-do destination is the Sarasota Farmers’ Market, a downtown destination that’s built for strolling around on easygoing Saturday mornings. Here you will find fresh produce, flowers to bring home and beautify your space, artisan goodies and even on-site art classes for the kids! The spirit of community abounds at this sunny West-Coast market.

Be sure to pack your flip-flops and sunscreen, because the beach is only minutes away! We recommend heading over to Siesta Key, where its famously soft, white sand provides the perfect backdrop to a day of sandcastles and splashing (or lounging) around.

When to go: Saturdays, 7 a.m.-1 p.m.

Orlando Farmers’ Market

This Central Florida market is a must-do destination for visitors and locals alike. The Orlando Farmers’ Market takes place at the heart of downtown, right along the picturesque shoreline of Lake Eola. Here, a thriving scene offers you the chance to do a bit of everything. Shop for your fresh produce, browse for arts-and-crafts gifts, dig into a handmade lunch and even bring Fido along for the fun! As you shop, spend time with loved ones and sway to the sound of live music, you realize what truly makes this farmers’ market so special. And of course, when you’re done shopping, the abundance of Orlando attractions awaits—ride a swan boat on the lake, do some shopping or visit a favorite park to enjoy a seriously fulfilling day.

When to go: Sundays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Ormond Beach Farmers’ Market

Looking for a fun way to mix up your week? The Ormond Beach Farmers’ Market has your solution! This market takes place every Thursday, giving you the chance to indulge in some al fresco fun, shopping, and delicious food in the middle of your week. Who says you have to wait for Saturday to enjoy the fresh air, anyway?

Held at City Hall Plaza, right by the water, the Ormond Beach Farmers’ Market offers a shopping experience with a view. Pick up fresh produce (avocados, grapefruit, guava, and tomatoes are just a few of the deliciously colorful, in-season options to choose from this January) and engage with local vendors who offer everything from honey to soap to handmade gifts, sweet bread and beyond. It’s a welcoming, eclectic mix of local flavors all in one beautiful open-air destination. Beyond the market, be sure to make some time to visit local historical sites (such as the Birthplace of Speed park), cruise the Halifax, explore nature or spend time relaxing in the sand!

When to go: Thursdays, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Daytona Flea & Farmers Market

Just minutes down the coast you’ll find the Daytona Flea & Farmers’ Market, a three-day event that’s brimming with things to do and see… and, of course, eat!

Browse through fresh citrus, honey, popcorn, and other delicious offerings, as well as gifts you’ll want to bring home—from crystals to surf gear and everything in between. You’ll never run out of things to explore. What makes this market really special, though, is a lively schedule of events that makes every weekend truly one-of-a-kind. On the first Saturday of every month, for example, you can see beautifully maintained, old-school cars at the Classic Car Cruise-In. On the second Sunday of every month, an Arts & Crafts Show gives you even more locally made, handmade goods to admire.

While you’re in the area, take some time to explore! If you’re a racing fan, the Daytona International Speedway is right up your alley. You might also want to carve out some time by the shore—this is the “World’s Most Famous Beach,” after all—or head a bit farther down the south to enjoy some choice surfing action at Ponce Inlet.

When to go: Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

We hope that today’s guide helps inspire a trip to your local (or not-so-local) farmers’ market. As you’ll soon discover, food is just the beginning of the fun!

Springtime should be bright, zesty, fun—and a little unexpected! Our favorite citrus, the versatile lemon, is all these things and more.

As we swing into the season, let’s take a look at our favorite lemony dishes and drinks here at Stonewood—as well as a few delicious ways to incorporate lemons into your at-home meals! Just read on and dig in.

Calamari

Looking for a way to begin your meal with a kick? Our Calamari is the quintessential seafood starter, a delightful combination of hand-breaded, flash-fried calamari and jalapeno rings, pineapple chili sauce, and a citrusy flair—a grilled half-lemon and house-made lemon aioli that’s sure to please.

Lemon Beurre Blanc

Rich, classic Beurre Blanc is a delicious addition to any dish—and our citrusy twist makes it even more exciting. Enjoy Lemon Beurre Blanc as a creamy complement to any of your favorite entrées, or dig our oak-grilled Tuscan Chicken or Crab Crusted Flounder, which both feature it as a star ingredient.

Limoncello Cake

When you’re craving something sweet to cap off your dinner, our Limoncello Cake is sure to satisfy! We’ve paired a light lemon layer cake with limoncello mousse for a fresh medley of textures that’s as exciting as the citrusy flavor itself.

Lemony refreshments

You don’t need a fork and knife to savor a touch of lemon—here at Stonewood, you can enjoy your favorite citrus in many delicious refreshments, too. Lemon adds a tangy touch to classic drinks such as our Poma Orange Pick-Me-Up, Ultimate Margarita, and Red and White Sangrias. But it doesn’t stop there. Did you ever notice that your favorite berries, especially blueberries, have a sweet touch of tanginess to them? This latent flavor blends beautifully with lemon, which is why several of our favorite Stonewood cocktails pair the two together! Try our Blackberry Crush, Blueberry Citrus Mule or Blueberry Martini to experience the fusion of flavors, firsthand. 

Enjoying lemon goodness at home

When life gives you lemons, you can make lemonade—and so much more!

While cooking at home, you don’t need to do very much to let the citrus flavor shine. Add it to plain pasta for a light, tangy touch—or to sauce to really play up the sharpness of your fresh tomatoes. Lemon juice can dress up plain white rice, or lend fresh flair to classics like Spanakorizo (Greek spinach rice) and other classics from the Mediterranean, where the lemon plays a vital culinary role. Lemon juice can even be squeezed onto sliced apples to slow down the browning process. The bottom line? Lemons can do a whole lot! When in doubt, adding a touch of lemon juice to an everyday dish can make it a little less “every day,” ensuring that your taste buds are always excited and ready to enjoy even more.

From sweet desserts to savory entrees and everything in between, is there anything the lemon can’t do? Enjoy its zesty flair on your next trip Stonewood.

Craving some delicious seafood? Pair your dish with sunshine, music and all the makings of paradise at the 43^rd annual Original Marathon Seafood Festival.

The best part? This weekend adventure is just $5, and free for the kids! Read on as we explore the food and fun at this one-of-a-kind festival, and the idyllic island paradise it calls “home.”

A tasty, time-honored tradition

The Original Marathon Seafood Festival is a rich tradition, serving as a celebration of anglers’ fresh catches for 43 years and running. The first of its kind in the Florida Keys, it started as many great things do—with humble beginnings, in this case a parking lot that now serves as the local Publix. Local fishermen would get together to share their fresh catches, ranging from sport fish to spiny lobster, oysters and more.

What’s on the menu?

As its name might suggest, the Original Marathon Seafood Festival offers plenty in the way of fresh, delicious seafood. Dig into Mahi Mahi, lobster tails, shrimp, stone crab, ceviche and more. Surrounded by saltwater in just about every direction, the Keys are your go-to spot for indulging in the freshest possible flavors. Enjoy them in new ways and dig into dishes with a bright Floribbean flair—there’s something for every kind of foodie at this year’s festival.

Beyond the plate

Come for the food, and stay for the fun. Against the backdrop of Marathon’s gorgeous ocean views and the calm, soothing sea breeze, you’ve got plenty to enjoy—a boat show, rock-climbing, activities for the whole family, giveaways, and more than 200 vendors with arts, crafts, and gifts to share with friends back on the mainland. There will also be live music from talents such as I-Land Vibe, Caribe, Howard Livingston & Mile Marker 24 Band, and many other acts to sway and sing along to.

Exploring Marathon’s island paradise

For foodies who love to travel, too, there is plenty to explore around Marathon. Cruise around and land a fresh catch of your own, or kick back in the unparalleled tranquility of nearby Bahia Honda Key. Here, soft, white sand complements the cool, vibrant turquoise of the horizon—it’s the perfect place to simply kick back and enjoy a slice of Sunshine State paradise that feels, somehow, uniquely yours.

For seafood cravings close to home…

When you’re craving seafood back on the mainland, Stonewood is here to help all year round. We’ve got your favorite fresh seafood flavors, including Calamari, Seafood Cavatappi, Tuna Steak, Herb-Encrusted Mahi Mahi and much more. And of course, if you’re craving a touch of the Keys, be sure to pair your meal with a Pain Killer cocktail! Made with Papa’s Pilar Blonde Rum from Key West (just a quick drive, or cruise, from Marathon), its medley of coconut puree, pineapple juice, and orange bitters is sure to satisfy your tropical appetite.

Take a trip south to enjoy the lively (and delicious) fun at the Original Marathon Seafood Festival! And of course, when you’re craving vibrant seafood picks closer to home, enjoy a slice of a staycation at your nearest Stonewood—after all, fresh seafood is a passion shared all across the state!

Lime. Tequila. Salt and a touch of sweetness. The makings of a margarita seem pretty simple—but somehow, we’re still constantly learning more about this beloved beverage.

In honor of National Margarita Day on February 22^nd, we’re taking a look at some of the fun facts behind our favorite sweet-and-sour treat. Just take a sip and read on to learn more!

What’s in a name?

We’ve come to associate “margarita” solely with our favorite drink—we even named a glass after it! But the word is actually Spanish for “daisy.” While margaritas can certainly be colorful like the heart of a daisy, though, many actually believe that the margarita drink is not named after the flower but after another cocktail called, well, the daisy. This drink certainly seems like a predecessor to the margarita, featuring a few basic ingredients like brandy, simple syrup, lemon and citrus liqueur. As one story goes, throwing tequila into the mix added a Mexican flair to the drink and, hence, the Spanish-named cocktail was born. (Though depending on who you ask, the margarita could have been named after a variety of women, too, including the singer Peggy Lee—“Margarita” is short for “Margaret,” for which Peggy is a nickname—and a showgirl named Rita.)

We’ll never quite know the full story behind the margarita, and that’s okay. The mystery aspect just makes the margarita that much sweeter.

Cheers!

Because of the margarita’s Spanish name, you might find it fun to toast in that language, too. The next time you want to say “cheers” with friends while sipping a margarita, opt for the Spanish “salud,” which can be used to refer to good health, to say “bless you,” and, of course, to wish someone well!

Sweet-and-salty science

While sipping a margarita, the only thought going through your head is probably “mmmm.” But as it turns out, a lot of science goes into every sip!

Just like pastry chefs know that salt can bring out the sweetness in cakes and cookies, bartenders have learned that salt prevents competing elements in a drink (in our case, sweet agave and sour lime) from overpowering one another, while simultaneously emphasizing that perfect spot where the elements shine their best. It brings out the best of both. While science can still sometimes be stumped when it comes to why we like certain flavors, one possible explanation is that salt, especially, touches on our gustatory receptor cells, a.k.a. taste buds, resulting in that mouthwatering feel and emphasizing the flavor experience. At the same time, too much salt can overpower a flavor—so with the margarita, it’s placed lightly on the rim of a glass to achieve a perfect balance.

A Stonewood special

The science behind a margarita’s flavor may be complex, but here’s something a little simpler: On National Margarita Day, come down to Stonewood Grill & Tavern and buy one House Margarita, get one free! These vibrant refreshments serve as the perfect complement to a delicious dinner with friends and family, so be sure to gather up the crew and we’ll see you soon. This offer is only valid on February 22 with our special coupon. 

Searching for a flourish of culinary inspiration? Try looking in an unlikely place—like Pantone’s 2019 Color of the Year, Living Coral.

The beautiful shade—which is lively, yet still down-to-earth—is described as “an animating and life-affirming coral hue.” It’s cheerful, energizing and natural, making it an intriguing pick for those who like to deck out their dining spaces (and their plates) with a new hue every season or so.

Read on as we share a few fun ways to incorporate this coral hue in your dining routine—from your kitchen setup to the food itself! Take a look.

Go for a coral kitchen

Looking to make a big change? Go all-out! For your kitchen or dining space, a bright coral backsplash, wallpaper or accent wall is sure to mix things up in a cheerful way. You can even opt for a slightly more muted version of your favorite coral so that it meshes more easily with your overall décor scheme. The end result? A kitchen space that’s as adventurous as the foods you enjoy inside it! Plus, the coral walls are very apropos for the Sunshine State, where pastel facades have reigned supreme for about as long as we can remember.

Incorporate bright accents

Of course, a big sweeping change might not be for everybody. If you crave coral in your kitchen space, you can always opt for bright accents that liven up your room without overpowering your current setup. From a cozy breakfast table, to an eclectic set of colorful chairs, to your table runner, kitchen curtains or even dishware, there are plenty of ways to show off your coral spirit in subtle, spirited bursts.

Add fresh flowers

A fresh bouquet of flowers is a surefire way to brighten up any space! Coral-colored flowers are especially pretty for springtime, and can add a fun, playful feel to your next dinner party or get-together.

Dig into coral cuisine…

While the Color of the Year usually refers more to décor than to food, we say—why not? Coral is a beautiful hue that can be found throughout nature, including in some of our favorite foods. For a bit of coral inspiration on your plate here at Stonewood, here are a few tasty picks…

Bruschetta

While a whole tomato is a bright orange-red, it takes on a vibrant pink-red tone reminiscent of coral when cut up into pieces for an Italian Bruschetta! This starter is as beautiful as it is delicious, as the vine-ripe tomatoes, basil, garlic, parmesan and house-made balsamic combine to form the perfect blend of tanginess. The ideal way to begin your meal with a kick.

Lobster Roll

You might be too busy savoring the chilled, tender Maine lobster meat to notice its gorgeous coral color—but it’s there! Paired with waffle chips and a griddled split-top bun, it’s a delicious seafood pick all around.

Benziger Rosé

For a splash of coral in your beverage, opt for the gentle, picture-perfect pink in a glass of Benziger Rosé.

Feeling inspired? Deck out your space in vivid coral, then check out the coral flourishes in some of your favorite Stonewood dishes and drinks! By approaching your food from a painter’s perspective, you’re sure to see things in an all-new way.

Are you a chocolate connoisseur? A fan of all things cocoa, whether it comes in the form of a cake, cookie, candy bar or good-old-fashioned milkshake?

If so, here’s to you! Chocolate Lovers Month is here, and it’s the perfect time to indulge your true, chocolatey passion at home and here with us at Stonewood. Read on as we share a few of our favorite chocolate picks, as well as some delicious ways to pair them!

Chocolate Mousse Cake

For a classic chocolate dessert, our Chocolate Mousse Cake is a must-try. Enjoy a double-dose of chocolatey goodness—in our moist chocolate cake, as well as layers of milk chocolate mousse that are sure to soothe your soul. The velvety treat is topped off with dark fudge icing, chocolate nibs and fresh whipped cream for a sweet, light touch. When you’re going for “decadent,” this dish is sure to satisfy.

Chocolate Bread Pudding

Chocolate and vanilla, warm and cool—for those who love a playful balancing act in their dessert, the Chocolate Bread Pudding is just what you need. We’ve paired a comfort-food, chocolate bread pudding with vanilla bean ice cream, a warm Jim Bean bourbon sauce, and a fresh cookie crisp for good measure. The result? An ooey, gooey treat that’s sure to hit the spot when you crave ultimate dessert comfort.

White Chocolate Raspberry Martini

A delicious liquid dessert for the grown-ups, our White Chocolate Raspberry Martini offers a sweet, fruity blend for those who crave white chocolate. We’ve blended Godiva Raspberry Vodka, Godiva White Chocolate Liqueur and a bit of Chambord for a creamy treat you’re sure to love.

Chocolate Martini

For all-out chocolate lovers, opt for our Chocolate Martini! This decadent liquid dessert pairs Van Gogh Dutch Chocolate Vodka and Godiva Chocolate Liqueur with house-made chocolate cookie crisp crumbles for a sophisticated twist on your favorite chocolatey treat.

For the perfect chocolatey pairing…

Wondering how to pair wine with your chocolate dessert? Just keep this simple rule of thumb in mind—your wine should be sweeter than your dessert, so that it is not overpowered in terms of flavor. In general, Merlot and Pinot Noir are two wines often recommended for milk chocolate pairings. Of course, if you’d rather let the chocolate take center stage, that works as well! The key here is indulging in a way that’s delicious and fulfilling for you.

Worked up a craving? We’ve got you covered! Indulge in these chocolatey treats this February and all year long—because who says the sweets have to stop on Valentine’s Day, anyway?

Seafood, sunsets, sea breeze… and did we mention seafood? This February, the SunWest Crab & Shrimp Festival has something for the whole family to enjoy.

As we count down the days until the fun begins February 22^nd, read on and see what makes the festival such a special event!

A growing tradition

Now in its fourth year, the SunWest Crab & Shrimp Festival is a young but quickly growing festival—and that’s good news for seafood fans.

From the charming West Coast city of Hudson, Florida, the festival is making a name for itself. This year, there will be increased seating, an expanded entertainment lineup and longer hours for those who just can’t get enough of the breezy coastal setting (and, of course, all that delicious food).

Indulge in coastal fare

Speaking of that delicious food, guests should arrive hungry! There will be plenty of vendors and seafood picks to choose from, including the stars of the show, crab and shrimp. These crustaceans are popular fare throughout the Sunshine State, and crabbing is especially enjoyed over at hidden-treasure spots along the West Coast.

Have some fun

Of course, if you come really hungry, why not indulge in some friendly competition? One of many ways to show your crustacean love at this year’s festival is through the stone crab claw eating contest. If you’re more of a spectator, watch the contest and then have fun on carnival rides, playing cornhole or checking out the crab races.

Catch the sunset

Situated at the far west end of Pasco County, SunWest Park offers gorgeous water views. By day, it’s a hopping place, a great spot to splash around with the family and soak up that classic Florida sunshine. As the sun starts to dip below the horizon, though, it takes on an entirely new character—a dreamy spot to catch the sunset and watch hazy colors swirl above. Be sure to take some time during the festival to kick back by the water!

Sway to the music…

… or pull up a lawn chair and sit! Whichever way you enjoy the live entertainment, including Jimmy Buffett tribute band The Landsharks, you’re sure to find yourself slipping into a relaxed mindset.

With all the sun and seafood, who wouldn’t feel that way?

Hungry for more?

If you find yourself craving crab and shrimp after the festival’s over, don’t worry—Stonewood has you covered! Our Tampa location is just an hour’s drive south and features delicious seafood picks like our Spinach, Crab & Brie Dip, Crab Crusted Flounder, Shrimp & Scallops and many more.

Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply love exploring new coastal destinations, the SunWest Crab & Shrimp Festival is a can’t-miss event. It’s one of many delicious Sunshine State food festivals worth checking out in the months ahead, so be sure to stay connected with Stonewood as we explore them all!

Sit back, relax, and sip—in honor of National Drink Wine Day on February 18^th, we’re sharing some of our favorite ways to unwind with a good glass of vino. Just read on to learn something new!

Develop a taste for wine

Some of us are avid vino aficionados, while others haven’t quite discovered a glass we truly love. That’s okay! By giving yourself time to try out different types, you might find that your favorite beverage has been hiding right in front of your nose all along.

Speaking of your nose—it plays an important part in the process of experiencing wine! Wine glasses actually have large openings so that you can breathe in the aroma of your wine before and during that first sip. Feel free to ask your Stonewood server about different types of wines and how they pair up with your all-time favorite dish. You might just discover a match made in flavor heaven.

Try something new

So maybe you already have a favorite go-to glass—this Drink Wine Day, why not switch things up and discover something new? Favorites are favorites for a reason, but there might be another wine you love just as much without you even knowing it! If you’re used to red wine, mix things up and opt for white (you might want to change your meal, too—fish, especially, goes well with many whites, for example). Or if you’ve always seen wine as a formal beverage, turn the tables and try out a Red or White Sangria for a fruity, casual twist!

Make your food taste even better

Wine is exquisite, and your favorite Stonewood dish is, too—but together, they can make each other even better. It’s the power of complementary flavors at work. Rich red wines, for example, are a ready-made match for roast meats. A crisp white, on the other hand, is delicate enough to let the flavors in milder fish and poultry dishes shine. Thee are just some of the basic rules of thumb, of course. Over time, you’ll learn what wine truly showcases your favorite flavors best—and it just gets better from there!

Embark on an international excursion…

Did you know you can travel the globe without ever leaving the dinner table? By matching up wine and foods by the region they call “home,” you can enjoy an international excursion with ease: Spanish wines with Spanish dishes, Italian with Italian, you get the idea. (Of course, if you ever do catch the travel bug, just ask to see where your favorite wine is from and make a trip to see where it’s grown!)

Keep track of new favorites

Finally, here’s a tip that can help you long beyond Drink Wine Day. Keep a wine diary or journal! Whether it’s a dedicated scrapbook of sorts, or a simple running list on your phone, a record of all the wines you try and love (or don’t love) can help narrow down the characteristics you most crave in a glass. If you’re not already, this last step will have you feeling like a true sommelier in no time.

We hope that these highlights help you enjoy your next glass of wine to the fullest. Whether it’s a special occasion or a just-because dinner with friends, it’s one of our favorite ways to elevate the evening—and make delicious meals even richer.