Saffron Indian Cuisine

Curry. I had issues with this food concept for the longest time. I thought it to be too overwhelming for my palate and just a bunch of spices in one dish with no thought process behind it. I could not have been more wrong. When done right, curry is so much more than I originally gave it credit for. Yes, it is complex and not for those who would rather have a burger and fries. Thanks to my fantastic friend, Alex, who never lets me write off an entire cuisine after one bad meal, I decided to give Saffron a chance. Located on Sandlake road, next to Cedars and Roy's, this place is quite new. Its decor is simple, yet gorgeous. The attention to detail is beautiful, every seat has a comfy pillow. And even though I do not drink, my favorite part of the look are the wine bottles on the wall. What a great idea!

This place is perfect for lunch. The specials are unbeatable for authentic Indian cuisine and you get a taste of everything. The lunch menu is split into Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian dishes and like any good restaurant you get to pick your spice level (I love choices!). There are about 15 dishes to choose from and the dishes range from $8 to $10. I got the Chicken Curry (ordered with nuts) and Alex got the Lamb Vindaloo. Both orders came with an array of items: naan, papadum, one samsosa, raita, lentils and rice pudding. I have had many samsosa's, but this one wins hands down. It was not greasy at all and it was packed with potatoes and peas. The tray was full of all these different dishes and it all was fresh and made to order. The bill came to about $30 after the tip!

The service was quick and friendly, but the waitress seemed to not want to modify anything on the menu. I asked for nuts to be added to my curry and she seemed to not like this. Perhaps it was an Indian foodie faux pas? Whoops! Also, the Lamb Vindaloo turned out to be chicken. We
ended up not returning the Vindaloo (Have you seen Waiting?). However, these two missteps will not deter me from going again. This place is a must-go!

Check out the huge, flavorful menu: http://www.saffronorlando.com/

Menchies

I like choices. MANY choices! Menchies Frozen Yogurt offers up a whimsical take on everyone's favorite after dinner dessert. From the lime green and fuchsia decor to the endless topping possibilities, this dessert spot is unlike any other. When you first walk in you may feel overwhelmed. I know I was! What should I get? A waffle bowl or cup? One flavor or six? Cereal or fruit? Nuts or fluff topping? But all this deciding becomes fun especially when you're with a group of friends. Tip: This place is great for affordable get togethers with friends or co-workers.

Menchies offers up a wide range of flavors, which they change out daily (check their location specific Facebook pages for the flavors of the day). Some flavors you will always find like, Cable Car Chocolate and Very Vanilla. BUT...then there are the flavors that will surprise you...and you just can't say no! Devil's Food Cake, Irish Mint, Root Beer Float, Pumpkin and Island Banana! Already low in fat, Menchies also caters to the people looking for low carbohydrate, no sugar added and dairy free options. Still not sure what to get? No problem. On the round checkout counter be on the lookout for sample cups. It's a fantastic way to try out all the flavors before you make a purchase. Another great thing about this place is that you serve yourself and the price depends on the weight of your ice cream! So, you can get as little or as much as you would like :)

If you want my advice on flavors, go for: Island Banana, Cookies and Cream, Peanut Butter, Irish Mint and Butter Brickle. Pumpkin and Peppermint Patty are my least favorites :( But, of course, I have not tried them all (Post your favorites in the comment section!!!). Toppings range from cereal (Captain Crunch, Fruity Pebbles), nuts (almonds, peanuts), candy (M & M's, Reese's), fruit (kiwl, mango, cherries),cookie dough, strawberry fizzies, fudge, caramel and much more!

Sign up for their Smileage Program and get points every time you go. After 50 smiles, you get $5! Outdoor and indoor seating is offered and a small cooler of drinks are available for purchase. Don't forget to leave a message on the chalkboard for the next customers ;)

Quick! Click here for Frozen Yogurt bliss: http://menchies.com/