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Discover the Art of Wine: EVERY Sunday Wine Classes This Summer at The Laurel Oak Inn

At The Laurel Oak inn Bed and Breakfast we believe that a relaxing getaway should be accompanied by an exquisite wine experience.

As part of our commitment to providing our guests with an unforgettable stay, we are thrilled to announce our new Sunday Wine Classes with Melody Wilson from Beaker and Flask Wine Co . Indulge in the world of wine, expand your knowledge, and savor the flavors as we take you on a journey through the vineyards of the world. Join us every Sunday of the summer months and embark on a delightful exploration of the diverse and fascinating world of wines.

Unveiling the Sunday Wine Classes: At The Laurel Oak Inn Bed and Breakfast, we understand that wine appreciation is an art form that enhances the senses and elevates the overall experience of fine dining. To celebrate the rich and diverse world of wines, we have designed an exciting series of Sunday Wine Classes that cater to both wine enthusiasts and novices alike. Led by our experienced sommelier, each class provides a unique opportunity to learn, taste, and discover the intricacies of different wines.

A Variety of Themes and Regions: Our Sunday Wine Classes offer a diverse range of themes and focus on various wine regions from around the globe. Whether you have a penchant for the rich reds of Tuscany, the crisp whites of Burgundy, or the vibrant sparkling wines of Champagne, our classes will introduce you to the distinctive characteristics and stories behind each bottle.

Each Sunday, we select a specific theme or region and curate a selection of exceptional wines for our guests to sample. From Old World classics to New World favorites, our classes aim to broaden your understanding of different wine styles, grape varieties, and winemaking techniques. Join us as we explore renowned wine regions like Bordeaux, Napa Valley, Rioja, and beyond, unlocking the secrets and nuances of their terroir.

Expert Guidance: Our wine classes are led by our knowledgeable wine expert Melody Wilson, who brings a wealth of experience and passion to every session. She will guide you through the art of wine tasting, helping you develop a discerning palate and teaching you the proper techniques to evaluate the appearance, aroma, and flavors of each wine. With her expertise, you will gain valuable insights into pairing wines with food, understanding wine labels, and discovering hidden gems within each region.

Intimate and Interactive Setting: To ensure an intimate and engaging experience, we limit the number of participants for each class. This allows our wine expert Melody, to provide personalized attention and encourages lively discussions among attendees. You will have the opportunity to ask questions, share your thoughts, and exchange recommendations with fellow wine enthusiasts, fostering a sense of camaraderie and community.

Unwind and Savor the Moment: Following the wine class, you can continue your wine exploration in our cozy lounge or picturesque garden, indulging in a selection of delectable cheeses, charcuterie, and artisanal bread. Relish the tranquil ambiance and relive the delightful moments from the class as you immerse yourself in the world of wine.

Join us every Sunday of the summer and indulge in an enlightening and enjoyable wine experience that will leave you with lasting memories!

Join us on July 16 from 4:00 to 5:30 PM Click here to purchase your ticket. Embark on a captivating journey of Italian wine discovery as esteemed wine expert, Melody Wilson, invites you to an enchanting evening at the picturesque Laurel Oak Inn. Prepare to immerse yourself in the rich traditions and irresistible flavors of Italy, as Melody guides you through a carefully curated selection of remarkable Italian wines.

Join us on July 30 from 4:00 to 5:30 PM Click here to purchase your ticket. Step into the world of German & Austrian elegance and savor an unforgettable wine tasting class that showcases the rich flavors and cultural heritage of both countries. Wine expert, Melody Wilson from Beaker & Flask will guide you through each wine, sharing captivating stories and insights into the vineyards, regions, and winemakers behind the selections.

Join us on August 6 from 4:00 to 5:30 PM Click here to purchase your ticket. Step into the world of Spanish elegance and savor an unforgettable wine tasting class that showcases the rich flavors and cultural heritage of Spain. Wine expert, Melody Wilson from Beaker & Flask will guide you through each wine, sharing captivating stories and insights into the vineyards, regions, and winemakers behind the selections.

BAMBUU Asian Eatery in Gainesville Florida
By Susannah Peddie April 2, 2025
BAMBUU Asian Eatery: Gainesville’s Go-To Spot for Flavor-Packed Bowls and Modern Vibes Gainesville’s dining scene just got a major upgrade with the arrival of BAMBUU Asian Eatery, a fast-casual fusion concept that’s already making waves across town. From build-your-own bowls to freshly prepared appetizers and a welcoming atmosphere, BAMBUU offers a delicious, modern take on classic Asian flavors—all served fast and made with care. Whether you’re craving comfort food with a twist or just need a healthy lunch option near campus or work, BAMBUU hits the spot. ๐Ÿœ What Is BAMBUU? BAMBUU Asian Eatery is a Florida-born concept that blends traditional Chinese, Japanese, and Korean cooking with a fresh, contemporary spin. It’s designed to deliver quick, high-quality meals built around customizable options and clean ingredients. Everything is made-to-order, and you’re in control—choose your base, mix in your favorite proteins or veggies, and top it off with scratch-made sauces. It’s a fun, casual experience that doesn’t compromise on flavor or freshness. ๐ŸŒ Visit BAMBUU Online ๐Ÿ“ Where to Find It The Gainesville location is right in the action at 3606 SW Archer Road , in the busy Butler Plaza area. That makes it super convenient for University of Florida students, Shands staff, and anyone shopping or running errands in the area. Whether you’re grabbing lunch between classes or picking up dinner on your way home, BAMBUU’s spot is easy to access and surrounded by plenty of parking. ๐Ÿฑ The Menu: Build Your Bowl, Your Way One of the most appealing aspects of BAMBUU is its build-your-own bowl format . Whether you're vegetarian, gluten-free, or just picky (hey, no judgment!), there’s something here for everyone. Start with a base like: White rice Fried rice Lo mein noodles Fresh greens Then add your proteins and vegetables—options include: Grilled chicken Spicy beef Korean BBQ pork Basil shrimp Tofu (for a plant-based option) Their signature combos include: The Bambuu Bowl : Choose 2 bases + 3 proteins/veggies The Four Bowl : 2 bases + 2 toppings The Two Bowl : A single base + 1 topping—perfect for lighter appetites Every bowl comes to life with bold sauces like sweet soy glaze, creamy sesame, or spicy chili garlic. ๐Ÿงพ Explore the Full Menu ๐Ÿฅ  Don’t Skip the Starters Before you even get to your bowl, BAMBUU’s appetizers deserve their own spotlight. They offer crave-worthy sides that are ideal for sharing (or hoarding for yourself). Top picks include: Cream Cheese Rangoon – Crispy and golden with a creamy, savory filling Veggie Spring Rolls – Light, crispy, and perfect with dipping sauce Whether you’re dining in or ordering out, these are the perfect sidekick to any bowl. ๐Ÿง‘‍๐Ÿณ Fast-Casual Done Right BAMBUU offers a quick and easy dining experience without sacrificing quality. Guests walk through the ordering line (similar to Chipotle), selecting bases, proteins, veggies, and sauces as they go. It’s efficient, friendly, and made right in front of you—so there’s no wondering what’s going into your food. The interior is clean and modern with just enough flair to feel fun and welcoming—whether you’re eating solo or with a group. ๐ŸŽ‰ Hosting an Event? They Cater, Too BAMBUU also provides group catering , which is perfect for office luncheons, family parties, or student events. Catering trays are available in several sizes and include full meals with proteins, bases, sauces, and sides. They make it easy to customize a spread for any crowd—with the same bold flavors and fresh ingredients they’re known for in-store. ๐Ÿฅก Order Catering via ezCater ๐Ÿ’ฌ Community First: Giving Back in Gainesville Since opening, BAMBUU has made it a point to give back to the Gainesville community. They’ve hosted appreciation events with free meals for teachers, hospital staff, and first responders , showing their gratitude to those who make the city better every day. That kind of heart isn’t something you see every day in a fast-casual restaurant—and it’s one of the many reasons BAMBUU is earning loyal fans quickly. ๐Ÿš€ Growing in Florida This is BAMBUU’s second location , following their successful debut in Vero Beach . Gainesville was selected as their next stop thanks to its diverse, energetic population and thriving food culture. Their vision doesn’t stop here—more locations are in the works, including one coming soon to Clermont, FL. ๐Ÿ“ See All BAMBUU Locations ๐ŸŒŸ What Customers Are Saying Reviews have been glowing so far. Customers love the bold flavors, the speedy service, and the freedom to create a meal that’s just right for them. One happy diner shared: “Fresh, flavorful, and fast. Exactly what Gainesville needed. The spicy sauce was amazing, and I’ll definitely be back for the cream cheese rangoons.” ๐Ÿ—ฃ๏ธ Read Reviews on Yelp ๐Ÿ“ฆ Dine Your Way: In-House, Pickup, or Delivery You can enjoy BAMBUU however you like: Dine-in for a casual sit-down meal Takeout for lunch breaks or dinners on the go Curbside pickup for convenience Delivery through DoorDash, Grubhub, and Uber Eats Whether you’re relaxing at home or on the move, your next flavorful meal is just a few taps away. Final Bite: Why BAMBUU Deserves a Spot on Your Foodie Radar Gainesville’s restaurant scene is always growing, but BAMBUU brings something fresh and exciting to the table. With high-quality ingredients, a commitment to community, and a menu that’s endlessly customizable, this is more than just another rice bowl joint. It’s a place to connect, eat well, and feel good about your meal—every single time. ๐Ÿ“ Visit BAMBUU at 3606 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32608 ๐ŸŒ Order Online or View Menu Looking for a place to stay while visiting the local Gainesville attractions? Look no further than Gainesville's locally owned vacation rental company, StayGainesville . Book directly on our site, or call us at 352-519-3994 for guidance. For homes and condos, StayGainesville has many options- large and small/ budget and luxury, and more. For a shorter stay, we have 2 beautiful historic Inns in downtown Gainesville. The Camellia Rose Inn and The Laurel Oak Inn - both have unique personalities and they both feel like a home away from home. Looking for more things to do in Gainesville? Visit our Things to Do link.
Things to do in Gainesville Florida this week!
By Susannah Peddie March 26, 2025
From garden blooms to craft brews and scenic bike rides, Gainesville is full of life this weekend. Whether you’re planning to explore or host, this is the perfect time to enjoy all that spring has to offer. And when you’re ready to rest or celebrate, The Laurel Oak Inn and The Camellia Rose Inn provide ideal settings to unwind in style.
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