November 4, 2014

Omni Amelia Island Plantation, a Culinary Haven

By Natalie Maneval

Omni Resorts is known for its plush accommodations, exceptional service, and resorts that enhance the local culture. Omni Amelia Island Plantation is no expectation; in fact, this resort located about 30 miles from Jacksonville on Amelia Island may be Omni Resorts prized jewel. After an $85 million dollar renovation the 1,350-acre resort features white sandy beaches, adult and family pools, world-class golf courses, and exceptional culinary experiences. The resort is home to nine restaurants and lounges that serve everything from delicious gourmet pizza to fabulous seafood. For a touch of Florida’s sweet side guests are urged to taste the Florida Orange Pie with Champagne Sabayon and Wildflowers served at the Seaglass Lounge. This dish, inspired Executive Chef Daven Wardynski’s childhood and Florida orange orchards, has a perfect balance between the sweet orange and vanilla bean taste. The champagne sabayon adds the finishing touch to this delectable dish.

Wardynski believes in providing the freshest ingredients for all the dishes severed at the plantation, which is what inspired him to create the “Sprouting Project.” What began as a concept to bring the best ingredients to guests has grown into a state-of-the-art aquaponic greenhouse with Bream, Bluegill, and Sunfish, which grows 6,000 plants a year. There is also an organic garden that boasts strawberry vines, herb beds, and pineapple guava trees. To complete the experience there are two beehives that produce 3,000 pounds of honey a year and a smokehouse is set to be completed in 2015. All of these natural components are used throughout the resort and help to create a truly unique culinary experience that guests will be hard-pressed to forget.