As I was walking home last night, I noticed the lights on, the front door open, and a handful of people inside the long-awaited restaurant on the corner of 11th and P, Veranda. Peeking inside, I was pleased to learn that they were open with a limited menu and staff (I imagine that their official opening this Wednesday night will feature the full menu and a full staff). Despite my inclination to give new dining establishments a few weeks to work the kinks out before patronizing them, I could not resist giving it a try. I was pleased I did.
Veranda's atmosphere is great. A terracotta floor with tile inlay compliments the warm colored walls and beautiful and large wood bar. Wonderful aromas sneak out of the open kitchen in the back. Candle-lit table tops and dim lights make for an intimate setting for a drink or for dinner.
From the abbreviated menu, I ordered the scallops, which were served with a black olive sauce and linguine, and Drew ordered the skirt steak, which was served with a red wine sauce, pesto vegetables, and mashed potatoes. Both were a delicious preview of what's to come.
I think Veranda is going to find much success in its location and I am happy to welcome them to the neighborhood.
Veranda
1100 P Street, NW
5 comments:
Hanger steak... I had a hanger steak! As well as Chimay on tap... And it was all delicious!
Wow, even at 10:15am, these descriptions are making me hungry! Can't wait to try the place....I think they will be very successful...
As a side note, I was watching MSNBC yesterday morning, and they had a live broadcast from the new convention center (a doctor's stent conference), and it reminded me - once again - of the vast potential of the neighborhood.... there is a ton of revenue yet to be captured by businesses that will eventually populate the streets....
Kevin Chapple reported on some of the dishes they offer -
http://chappleanc.com/public/index.php/sitesnsounds/2007/10/19/mangiamo_the_proof_is_in_the_lamb_shank
I think me and the Mrs. were sitting behind you guys last night...
We ordered the same dishes, plus the carrot soup and (authentic) Greek salad for apps. The Greek salad is served without Romaine and feta, tossed in olive oil, rosemary and salt and was excellent. The soup too was creamy and delicious. I had the Alagash on tap and the wife had some yummy voignier. Everything was wonderful and very good.
The only recommendation I would make to the Veranda team is with regard to music. Perhaps some jazz or traditional Greek music would make the atmosphere even better.
Otherwise, we are very excited about this place and can't wait to come back - especially for brunch.
Cool! I've been looking forward to checking this place out.
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