Fresh, good-sized salads followed. The spring greens shared a plate with grape tomatoes, cumin-scented black beans and hearts of palm. The honey-mustard dressing was well-balanced, the blue cheese dressing chunky and good.
It should be noted here that these salads are included in the price of entrees, something that once was a given but has dropped off with the advent of a la carte steakhouses.
My Bourbon Street filet consisted of two medallions of tender, juicy, well-flavored beef topped with a sour mash whiskey sauce that had sweet notes balanced by the more astringent tang of the liquor. Properly cooked green beans, a dollop of spaghetti squash and smashed potatoes were nice accompaniments. My companion's pan-seared grouper consisted of a generous, juicy fillet topped with blue crab, wilted spinach and julienned roast peppers, making for an excellent dish. This one came with the same beans and squash, but with rice rather than potatoes.
We finished up with one large piece of the richest Key lime pie I have ever had. It was creamy and thick, with a powerful Key lime flavor and a thick graham cracker crust topped with a mix of fresh strawberries, raspberries and blueberries.
The Veranda may be old enough to vote, but it has matured well, maintaining the quality and ambience that made it a success so many years ago.
Superbly professional servers, good food presented attractively and an atmosphere that seems plucked from a century ago make for a fine night out. It's a great choice for a romantic dinner or a place to impress out-of-town guests with our oh-so-Southern charm.
Jean Le Boeuf is the nom de plume of a local food lover who dines anonymously at the expense of The News-Press.
The Veranda
Price: $$$$-$$$$$
Hours: Lunch is served from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Dinner is served 5:30 to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
Credit Cards: Major cards accepted.
Call: 332-2065
Noise Level: Moderate
Etc.: Reservations recommended.
Al fresco dining available in courtyard. Full bar.
