Category Archives: Travel

Farina’s Winery & Cafe

Before we attended the Grapevine Christmas Wine Train last week, we had dinner at Farina’s Winery and Cafe on Main Street. I had never been here before and have I ever been missing out.

Once you walk in, you will know exactly what I’m talking about. First of all, the atmosphere is amazing. Exposed brick, rustic, warm colors, decorations, and check out the lighting (above). It’s one of those places where the size of the restaurant is just right, you feel so comfortable. We sat in a room off the back, check out these photos. Love, love, love! Let’s bring a little history into the restaurant!

Now, to be completely honest, I think I knew I was going to like this place as soon as I walked in so it’s probably a little bias but we all know the food is the real taste test! Heck, we didn’t even start off with food, we started off with a frozen sangria. Now, I’m just going to say – try one and tell me how you like it. It was better than it looks (and it looks pretty darn good)!

I’m a fan of the menu size. Not too big, not too small with a good variety – just right so you don’t feel overwhelmed with the options but each and every one sound so good that it still makes it a little hard to pick from! I went with the Shrimp Scampi and a house salad. I recommend the house salad just so you can get the dressing, it’s so delicious. I’m pretty sure you can put it on anything.

The Shrimp Scampi. The Alfredo sauce on the pasta is so creamy. It literally feels like it’s melting in your mouth. The shrimp… I don’t even know where to begin. The shrimp is coated in bread crumbs and sits in a garlic butter sauce. The sauce is made to perfection. It doesn’t feel really buttery or oily, it’s the perfect combination and provides a savory taste to the shrimp.

If you are looking for a place to catch up with friends or a new place for date night, head on over. I have a feeling you won’t be disappointed.

Christmas Wine Train, Grapevine, TX

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(Picture Courtesy of Grapevine CVB)

Grapevine, Texas has a vintage train. It is amazing and I’ve wanted to ride it since the first time I found out about it. Although there are trips that run throughout the year from Grapevine to Fort Worth, the town of Grapevine does an amazing job incorporating the train into tons of events all year long. During the holiday season, they have the North Pole Express for families and the Christmas Wine Train for the adults. I had the pleasure of checking out the Christmas Wine Train last week.

The Christmas Wine Train is great for adults. For a girls night, date night, double date or even just to relax, there is a place for everyone! Something that I love about the train is ‘keeping it local’. Each wine train presents a different winery in the area. Su Vino winery was featured on the train that I went on and this upcoming Thursday is D’Vine Winery.

It doesn’t stop there. On the Su Vino train, Main Street Bistro and Bakery had appetizers and desserts. Although, we happened to eat dinner prior to boarding the train, we still tried a few items. One thing is for certain, if you happen to try one of the macaroons you are in trouble. They are beyond delicious!

I hope you got to see my previous post about the decorations in Grapevine this time of year. It’s truly magical. The train is no exception. The inside of the train car is filled with Christmas decor, holiday music is playing throughout the entire trip. You are even visited by Santa and the staff is kind and very friendly. What amazed me the most was how absolutely relaxing the trip was. Honestly, I thought the train would run a little faster but it was the perfect pace. Along our route, we could see homes decorated with lights in the coziness of the train car. I cannot describe how relaxing the trip was, you almost want to snuggle up with a blanket and shut your eyes for a few minutes.

The wine! I tried the Chardonnay and the Toasted Snowman – both delicious in their own way. Do be warned, if you try the Toasted Snowman, it is VERY sweet. It’s dessert within itself. Heather, tried the Almond Sparkling Wine and loved it. I don’t think you can go wrong with any wine that was featured on the train and it also allows you to taste the options for a great last minute holiday gift!

If you happen to be in the Grapevine area, by all means buy your ticket and head on over. The trip is just the right amount of time to unwind after a long day, catch up with your girlfriends or even snuggle up with your love. Treat yourself, it’s one of the best things to do and we all need it every now and again!

Facts:

The Christmas Wine Train boards at 7:30pm and returns at 9:00pm.

Parking is free and convienent, nearby.

Each train features a different winery and winery representative.

You will receive a Christmas Wine Train glass and a ticket for one glass of wine to choose from the selection available. Additional glasses can also be purchased on board.

Tickets can be purchased here.

Disclaimer: I was not compensated for this post, however I did receive free admission to the event in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are 100% my own.

Grapevine, TX – Christmas Capitol of Texas

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Have you heard of Grapevine, TX? It’s also known as the Christmas Capital of Texas and it’s definitely one of my favorite places to visit this time of the year. Within 40 days there will be more than 1,400 events. Millions of lights, decorations and even sightings of Santa make this a great place to visit alone, as a couple or even with your family.

Last week, I took a little trip to Grapevine and as usual, the Christmas spirit was all around. The Historic Main Street is absolutely AMAZING! The stores are so unique within itself but during Christmas, it’s really kicked up a notch. Each store takes part. In all honesty, it kind of reminds me of the towns in the Hallmark movies, stunning.

I even made a friend on Main Street!

From antique stores and unique shops, the Vetro glass blowing business to the Palace Arts Center and restaurants and wineries, there is something for everyone. On top of it all, if you are still looking for a unique gift, this is the place you’ll want to visit!

For the kids, be sure to visit the park. Honestly, I was so mezmerized by all the lights on Main Street but if you are with a child(ren) be sure to visit the park. There are different areas set up within a little winter village. It’s a great place to snap some photos of loved ones!

When it started to get a little darker, the lights really illuminated the area! At night its absolutely magical!

Grapevine, a little Christmas village in the heart of the Dallas / Fort Worth area. You really forget that you’re in the middle of the metroplex and feel like you’re in the middle of a Christmas wonderland. Now if only we could get a little snow.

Be sure to check out tomorrow for more on my adventures in Grapevine!