If you missed it, last week we went to Florida to visit my grandfather! He just turned 96 (96!!!) so we always make a point to visit him for a long weekend (which turned into a week thanks to a little unexpected weather) each year.

For the past few years, I’d been dying to visit this one restaurant down the strip from where we stay - Sale e Pepe. I’d only seen photos online, but it looked SO dreamy.

But a pretty Italian oasis comes at a pretty penny. It was definitely more than we’re used to spending, but for me, when it comes to GOOD food, there is no price too high. (KIDDING, of course. But I certainly don’t mind paying a little more if the food and environment are top notch.)

Somehow, I was able to convince the two money-saving men (my hubby and grandfather) that this was a good idea, that I had rented a dress JUST FOR THIS SPECIFIC OCCASION and that we essentially HAD to go. (Still can’t believe it worked!)

We arrived and I *actually* felt as if we were back in Italy on our honeymoon. I made a bee-line for the romantic terrace overlooking the ocean (even though my poor grandfather tried to sway us to eat inside instead - PAPOU, YOU CAN’T INSTAGRAM WHERE THERE IS NO NATURAL LIGHT, SILLY!)

Besides the swarms of people covering the picturesk sunset, it was perfect in every way. Wonderful wine selection, a plethora of dishes for me to choose from (ME! THE VEGETARIAN!) I ended up with the black truffle risotto (still can’t believe I actually said YOLO after ordering as I handed the menu back to our waiter.) $200 later, we all left with happy tummies and of course, a few photos to mark the occasion.

About the dress: This gorgeous Line + Dot maxi dress from Rent the Runway was everything I had dreamed of and more. It was lightweight and romantic - the hubs even asked how much it would cost to keep it. Even though RTR doesn’t work that way, I know I’ll be keeping an eye out during their next Clearance sale!

Wearing Line + Dot maxi dress and Lovers + Friends jacket via Rent the Runway, Maumero sandals c/o, HOBO the Original bag c/o, Cuyana belt.