Verandah - Fernandina Beach
Jim Richards Wait...a rare 5 Star?? Indeed, took 11 guests out to try this place. Restaurant is very nice setting modern with some elegance. Once we were seated we were greeted by Philip, our waiter, and offered drinks. He suggested blue crab dip as appetizers and man was at a hit... We all cleaned out the bowls of that delicious concoction. As we all ordered our entrees we had our choice of soup or salads, I got their Caesar which was presented in a most unique way and was delicious. Some got the soup and it must have been very good because their bowls were licked clean: - ) as far as the entrees most of us got their Grouper, this is a delicious fish that I have only found available in Florida. The rest of the party had steak or scallops. I can tell you the grouper was without a doubt the absolute best Ive ever eaten! One of my guests gets to eat grouper all the time he too made the same comment best ever... Turns out its been on their menu for 30 years in a row now I know why. Those that had steak said they were fabulous with a delicious crusting and the others who had scallops said they were absolutely perfect. Naturally we all decided to have desserts and their selection was vast and again everybody cleaned their plate. Unfortunately, no one ordered a pasta dish something I believe theyre known for as they make their pasta homemade fresh as needed daily right there. So that will have to be another trip and if its anything like what we ate it will be fabulous. I should mention the level of service we had... Our water glasses were constantly topped off and the silverware and plates were constantly switched out between each course and any refresh on cocktails or wine or ass before a glass got empty. Everything came out and an excellent casual pace And I can assure you that in the kitchen they have a true chef... Not a cook! This was a true dining experience in the way they handled such a large crowd as ours was flawless. Well worth every single penny and more. Well Im not a Forbes or Michelin rater, if I was, this place would certainly be extremely high on their recommendation chart and as far as me as I rarely issue a five-star across the board... This one has earned it from me