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A brand new Orlando area restaurant, Four Flamingos, is opening to the public on December 3 at 5:00 p.m. I was invited to a preview to learn more about the new eatery and taste some of the food.
Credit: PaulaK
Four Flamingos is the creation of Celebrity Chef and author Richard Blais of ‘Top Chef’ fame. He attended the preview and admitted that he loves starting new restaurants. Unlike some famous chefs, Blais is likable, with a great sense of humor.
Credit: PaulaK
Surprisingly, Four Flamingos is Chef Blais’ first restaurant in Florida. He has a love for the state, his wife is from the Tampa area, and he and his family spend a lot of time here. He said that it makes sense to open a restaurant in the Sunshine State.
While Four Flamingos is not located at Walt Disney World, it isn’t far. It can be found at the Hyatt Regency, 1 Grand Cypress Boulevard Orlando. To put that into perspective, it’s about 15 minutes from either the Magic Kingdom or Disney Springs. It’s located in the space that used to be Hemingway’s restaurant.
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The name Four Flamingos stands for the four types of flamingos found in Florida. One of the signature cocktails is called The Fifth Flamingo. Mixologist Ryan Ferraro created the drink that is made with rum, tropical fruits, and more. It’s served with a flamingo swizzle stick. That is just one of the specialty cocktails that the restaurant will soon be known for.
Credit: PaulaK
Since it is a restaurant that has its roots in Florida, there is a lot of fresh seafood, all with Chef Blais’ special twist. For starters, Ice Cold Oysters & Pearls feature fresh, clean oysters with “pearls” that are similar to Dippin’ Dots. There are Conch Hushpuppies with curry and honey. The restaurant has a distributor who deals only with fresh shrimp.
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The seafood selections continue to the entrees. You can order Lobster or Fish & Grits. If you like steak, there are a couple of different cuts, and surf and turf is available as well.
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There is also a creative meatless option at Four Flamingos. Cauliflower Steak is vegan as is, and the entire staff raved about it. Chef de Cuisine Shelby Farrell told me that there are also some sides that are made without animal products, and that they really want to provide a delicious, filling meal to all, no matter what their dietary preferences are.
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There are several selections that use smoke bubbles. The food or cocktail will be brought to your table, and then an opaque bubble is added on the top. The buddle is popped, adding fragrance and flavor. It’s fun to watch.
If you’re looking for a relaxed, filling meal outside of Walt Disney World, Four Flamingos could be the solution. Instead of being one large room, there are several small rooms. There is an open kitchen. There are pictures of flamingos throughout, and there are some nods to Hemingway’s.
Credit: PaulaK
If you’d like to dine at Four Flamingos, reservations are recommended. You can make them through Open Table. Give Four Flamingos a try, Chef Richard Blais can be proud of his newest location. It’s the perfect combination of atmosphere and delicious food.
