This week, Scott and I revisited the location of our first date.
Wait… this where it was?
Just kidding. Scott knows quite well that he took me to Cafe Tu Tu Tango for our first official date. Four years ago I walked into CTTT for the first time and fell in love… with the restaurant that is.
I only liked Scott back then. Man, (I sure think) I am funny today! 😉
Cafe Tu Tu Tango
Within a few seconds of entering Tu Tus, it is obvious that the place is truly unique. The atmosphere pays tribute to the starving artist, filled with vibrant colors and a collection of eclectic artwork.
Everything on the walls is up for sale, and there is always at least one artist on location creating pieces while you eat.
Besides the artwork, there is a variety of live entertainment including palm readers, belly dancers, flamenco dancers, break dancers, jugglers and even magicians.
The place is a blast and it’s no wonder why we bring anyone who comes to stay with us in Orlando in for an experience. I love seeing the reactions of new patrons. I’ve never seen anyone deny that the fun atmosphere and menu are equally fantastic.
Joining us for dinner was the adorable and fun couple, Jared and Lauren.
You might remember Jared from my cocktail hour wedding recap. He is an electric violinist for Cirque du Soliel, and we were honored to have him play throughout the wedding.
Right after sitting down we went straight for the goods… their award-winning sangria. They have a traditional red and white, but my favorites are the four flavors: mango, pear, passion fruit, and wild berry.
The four of us shared a pitcher of mango to start and ended with wild berry. You can’t really go wrong with any flavor.
The entire menu is tapas style, meaning everything is made as an appetizer size. Restaurants that serve mainly tapas usually encourage each person to order at least two or more dishes, then share everything around the table.
I love tapas and trying a little bit of this and a little lotta’ bit of that. I didn’t take a picture of every dish we ordered, but I made sure to capture the highlights.
The Eats
We started out with my absolute favorite: Dynomite Shrimp. It’s got a crisp, spicy kick and we get it every single time.
Next on the must-order list were the Cajun Chicken Egg Rolls filled with roasted corn, cheddar, goat cheese and creole mustard.
Our server assured us those two were the most popular on the menu, and I can totally see why. Y-U-M.
I was impressed that they offer a page of specials that change out daily, and we tested it out by ordering the Seafood Skewers.
Keep it comin’!
They encourage you to order as you go, so it’s not unusual to only order one or two dishes at a time. The upside to this is you can sit back and re-evaluate how hungry you still are. Were we full yet? Nope!
Hmm… what’s next?
This! The Prosciutto and Mango Flatbread.
Prosciutto, mango, tomato sauce, Parmesan and baby arugula drizzled in a balsamic glaze? Umm… yes please.
Girls: “Are you guys ready for dessert?”
Guys: “Are you serious?”
Girls (both): “I might still be a little hungry!”
Guys: “You’ve got to be kidding me.”
Girls: “Nope.”
Dessert it was!
Cinnamon flatbread topped with streusel, fresh bananas, banana-walnut ice cream, caramel sauce and whip cream made up the deliciousness they call Banana Pizza.
I swear I’m not trying to ruin you guys with all of the sweet food I’ve had on the blog lately. Yesterday it was mint chocolate chip ice cream and cheeseburgers, now this. I promise to get back to the healthy eats next week!
Until then, enjoy the food and this cut out canvas picture.
They actually encourage you to take it off the wall, take a picture and upload it to Facebook tagging Cafe Tu Tu Tango. Brilliant and DONE.
If you live in Orlando or plan to come for a visit in the future, I highly recommend you check this restaurant out. From families with children to starving artists, there seems to be something for everyone.
Today I’m teaching a barre class and then heading over to St. Petersburg for my friend’s 80’s theme roller skating birthday party. I can’t wait to share the pictures with you!
Have a great weekend! 🙂
Questions:
Have you ever been to a tapas style restaurant?
Do you like to share food around the table or prefer to keep to yourself?
Sarah
DROOL! that all looks SO delicious! I don’t know how you can eat like that and stay in such great shape! I think I’m going to have to run at least 30mi just from looking at that yummy banana concoction!
Heather
Sarah, it WAS!!! As far as eating sweets and staying in shape, it’s all about moderation. I don’t limit myself off of ANY food, but instead eat small portions of what might not be considered healthy.
Also, I notice a huge difference when I’m running consistently or not. Barre 2-3 times a week is a huge help as well!
I workout to stay healthy, not drop weight…but the important thing to remember is to find a balance that works for you!