The Opening

February 2nd 1998 the Verandah opened its doors to the outside community. Prior to that date, the restaurant was only open to club members and resort guest. That was the first day that residents of Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach were able to experience the culinary delights of the Verandah. We opened with 200 reservations, 7 cooks in the kitchen and a host of front of the house staff, some of them are still a part of that dinning room staff today. That was the day we were off and running. Here it is 14 years later and there are still staple items on the menu that were there on day one. Some of those menu items have had to be re-invented as they should be. We owe it to our guest to always strive for ways to improve while serving them a consistent product. A product that reputations are built on.
Just yesterday 1-07-2011 I was part of  a new menu tasting at the VK (Verandah Kitchen).Melissa McKnight the Verandah Chef is putting together a new menu for the restaurant and I have to tell you... its creative, inspiring and delicious. It looks to be staying true to the concept of sumptuous seafood served in a family relaxed atmosphere, however the presentations are with her creative flair.
I digress. Back to the opening on my next post.