Hours & Address: Wed.-Fri., 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Sat.-Sun., 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. 41 Royal Palm Pointe, Vero Beach 32960 | Phone: 772-226-5461
What and Where: A decade after Tim Girard told Vero he would soon be launching a steak and seafood restaurant on Royal Palm Pointe, Tradewinds 41 is finally open – but still trying to gain its footing. While some dishes on some nights are very good, this season is shaping up as a struggle to find room at the top end of the Vero dining pyramid.
Reservations: Recommended.
Adult Beverages: Full bar. Good wine selection.
Ambiance/Atmosphere: Modern dining downstairs; Tiki-style dining outside on canal-front porches.
Price: $$$-$$$$
Rating: Three and a half stars
Overall Verdict: After changing head chefs, the Tradewinds 41 kitchen seems to be hitting its stride, but the menu (and prices) are still evolving. On a recent visit, the pan-seared diver scallops with shiitake mushrooms, Serrano and leeks were outstanding, and a wood-grilled filet mignon was tasty though not exactly charred Pittsburgh-style. If you are hoping to dine overlooking the canal, much of the seating is at high-tops – so ask for a regular table.
Photos by Tina Rondeau
