John Mayer – St. Pete Times Forum
This past Friday I went with a few friends to see John Mayer perform at the St. Pete Times Forum in Tampa. I’ve seen John Mayer in concert many, many times so I’m always comparing the next show to the last one.
Show opener Michael Franti & Spearhead brought the crowd to their feet with their Reggae beats. The crowd interaction was unlike anything I’ve ever seen at a show this size (10,000+ people). Not only did Franti pull two concert-goers from the crowd on stage, but they were given guitars to jam along to the music with. If that wasn’t enough Franti appeared throughout the venue during the show, singing along with the crowd whose seats weren’t as good as ours. He even closed the show by bringing more people up on stage for a group singalong.
A few minutes later John Mayer took the stage, opening with his current single “Heartbreak Warfare.” From the start of the show through the end of the two-hour set Mayer was on. His band (made up of several new additions, including the first showing of back-up singers) was as tight as I’ve ever heard. There was a cohesion that was hard to imagine considering this was only the second show of the tour. We were fortunate to hear 8 of 11 tracks from Mayer’s current CD “Battle Studies” and the songs didn’t disappoint.
One of the greatest parts of any John Mayer show is the banter. Tampa’s show was no different. Mayer even got his hands on a sign that referenced a recent “Rolling Stone” interview he’d done … definitely funny stuff.
We followed up the Tampa show with another one in Jacksonville the next night and it was equally great, minus a lame Jacksonville, blazer-wearing crowd.
Gringos Locos in Downtown Orlando
As both resident of and someone who works in downtown Orlando, I’m always happy when a new restaurant or store opens. And while I was certainly sad to see Season’s Harvest close its doors (it’s still open for catering) I was definitely excited to hear about the opening of a downtown Orlando Mexican restaurant (and something different than the so-so Pancheros and Tijuana Flats).
So, did I check-it-out? You betcha.
Now first of all, I must mention that Gringos Locos is brand new. I definitely think they have a few kinks to work out in their operations, but I’m willing to give them some time. Service was pretty slow (food is made upon order) but my dish was worth the wait. The majority of my party was happy with their meals as well.
I enjoyed the “Gringo Enchiladas” (yummy green sauce, although one of my friends didn’t like it at all) along with delicious homemade rice & beans!
The dining area needs a little “livening-up” but there is some interesting artwork–available for purchase–on display:
Overall I was pretty happy with my new experience. Pricing at Gringo’s Locos was a bit high, in my opinion. But in general good experience. Am looking forward to returning once Gringos has gotten through all of its growing pains.
Have you been yet? We’d love to know what you thought.
Nude Nite in Orlando
Ever been to Nude Nite? Wondering what it is? If you’re a fan of art, this event is a must.
A friend and I actually went to Nude Nite nearly 10 years ago, and it was definitely an interesting experience. I’m planning on revisiting it again this coming weekend.
A little about Nude Nite, according to their website:
The largest nude art show in the country, Nude Nite returns for its 12th annual Valentines show in Orlando and its 2nd year in Tampa. Nude Nite is a 3 night multi-media art event celebrating the art of the nude. Hundreds of artists show and sell their interpretations of the nude and thousands attend to see photography, fine art, sculpture, mixed media, metal, digital, installations, saucy classic burlesque, world class body painters, living paintings and a visual evening of inspiration you will not soon forget.”
Location:
Lake Ivanhoe Row/Antique District (corner of Alden and Virginia)
503 Brookhaven Drive
Orlando, FL 32803
For additional details, including hours, cost, and location, click here.
I’m hoping I’ll be able to take photos of the event to share with you all. Stay tuned….
(NOTE: This event is only suitable for adults 21-years-old and over. ID is required for entrance.)
Paul Oakenfold at Club Firestone
Well, I was actually able to stay committed to all the shows I’d written about last month. This past weekend I joined some friends at Club Firestone in downtown Orlando to see Paul Oakenfold perform live. I’ve seen him several times, and he never disappoints.
Oakenfold took the stage about midnight, and for the time I was there he totally rocked the club:
Are you an Oakenfold fan but didn’t know about the show? Follow Club Firestone on Twitter to keep up with upcoming shows!
Out and About: Tagged
Mmmm…Oregano!
(Location: Loch Haven Park in Orlando.)
Out and About
Instead of obeying this, I stopped and took a picture. Should I be worried I didn’t follow instructions?
(Location: Downtown Orlando, corner of Orange Avenue and Robinson.)
McDonald’s to Leave Downtown Disney
We all know how upset I was when I first found out Virgin Megastore was leaving what must be a now desolate Downtown Disney. Well, yesterday I ran across a Tweet stating that food monger McDonald’s is now pulling out of its Downtown Disney location. It’s last day of operation is April 30th. Apparently its replacement is the I’ve-never-heard-of-it Pollo Campero.
According to the original article featured on “The Daily Disney” blog, this pull-out has been planned by Disney for several years, and that “their partners are ever-changing.”
I don’t know…. What do you think? Is there more to this story?
Out and About
Blue Note Ball
If you’re looking for something to do at the end of this month, head over to the Junior League of Greater Orlando’s Blue Note Ball!
For a mere $75, you can enjoy an evening at the Winter Park Farmer’s Market. Ticket price includes an hour of open bar, southern-style food and live entertainment.
Don’t have a tux? Don’t worry! The “ball” is taking a more casual approach this year; cocktail attire is suggested.
For more information or to buy tickets, visit the Junior League’s Web site.
Mochi Frozen Yogurt Orlando
As we head into Spring and the warmer months, I’ve got a great way for you to beat the heat: Mochi Frozen Yogurt! This little place recently opened in downtown Orlando, in the same building as the Plaza Cinema Cafe. I went there this past week, and I can tell you Mochi’s is quite a treat!
The interior is very minimalistic:
So what’s so special about Mochi? Well, two very awesome things:
1. It’s cheap! At only $0.45 an ounce you control what your price. So go light on those delicious toppings if you’re looking to save some cash.
2. It’s fat free! I don’t think there’s anything else to mention here!
And like many of the downtown Orlando restaurants, bars, and clubs, Mochi can be found on Twitter as well. In fact, in doing so, you just might catch a special treat or discount:
One of the really “cool” things about the Mochi yogurt is every cup is under a certain amount of calories. And the flavors change on a daily basis, so every trip might be something new!
So if you’re eating downtown, coming home from the bars, catching a movie, or just looking for something new to do in Orlando, pay Mochi Frozen Yogurt a visit…and figure out what your favorite flavor is!
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