TBAY’s own Dunedin made its Hallmark debut this week, with the premiere of “A Taste of Love.”
The food-forward rom com stars Erin Cahill as a TV chef at a career crossroads who comes home to visit her parents and their family restaurant — and the plot thickens. No worries, we don’t share spoilers in this house.
The movie was set and mostly filmed in the funky and bustling Pinellas County city in 2021, after receiving partial funding from Visit St. Pete/Clearwater and its film commission.
In the spirit of love month — or as Hallmark calls it, “Loveuary” — we’ve planned a swoon-worthy date day to spots heavily featured in the flick.
The casual eatery is tucked in the heart of downtown Dunedin.
Photo by TBAYtoday
Wild Iris Cafe
Kick the day off with a quiet morning on this downtown Dunedin gem’s patio. Chow down on breakfast sandwiches, savory crepes, and all the sides, or start your date later in the day with a satisfying lunch and Bellini.
Clearwater Beach
The nationally-acclaimed beach is featured multiple times throughout the movie, and for good reason. The powdery white long strip of beach is the perfect place to take a dip at dusk with a paramour or enjoy a quick chat on a boardwalk just taking in the views.
The Fenway Hotel
Sip on swanky cocktails just like the stars did on the historic hotel’s Hi-Fi Rooftop Bar. In addition to prime Caladesi and Honeymoon Islands views, the bar serves up a range of inventive mixed drinks like the Summer Rhapsody or the Fenway Sunset.
Take in the views from the Fenway Hotel’s outdoor bar.
Photo via %40fenwayhotel
Sea Sea Riders
The bulk of the love story’s tale takes place — and revolves around — this decades-old local fave. The 1903 Key West-inspired Old Florida cracker house is the perfect backdrop for an intimate dinner of Florida grouper sandwich, a New York Strip, and a few drinks.
Dunedin’s Main Street
The lively strip of eateries, ice cream shops, boutiques, and plant shops oozes small town charm + potential date options for all kinds of interests — including the Dunedin History Museum. We recommend a hot fudge sundae at Strachan’s Ice Cream and Desserts (it’s big enough for two) and catching live music at one of the bars and restaurants along the walk.
Before you head out on your romantic jaunt, make sure to stream the movie on Peacock or on the Hallmark app.
