Hours & Address: Dinner daily 5 p.m. Lunch, Mon.-Thurs. 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Fri. and Sat. to 3 p.m. Cocktail service and light food oceanside all afternoon. Sunday brunch debuts Dec. 6 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
1050 Easter Lily Lane, Vero Beach 32963 | Phone: 772-234-4114
What and Where: For al fresco dining with an ocean view, Citrus has long been the best Vero has to offer. Executive chef Scott Varricchio, who opened this American-style bistro next to Humiston Park 16 years ago, is no longer there. But the new leadership – bringing new energy, new dishes and new hours – is working to take Citrus to a new level.
Ambiance/Atmosphere: Casual dining with an upscale vibe.
Must-Try Dishes:
Adult Beverages: Full bar; good wine selection.
Reservations: Suggested.
Price: $$$-$$$$
Rating: Four Stars
Overall Verdict: Our experiences at Citrus the past couple of years have been a bit inconsistent, so we weren’t sure what to expect on a recent visit. While a variety of dishes we have long enjoyed remain on the menu, we opted for two new offerings. I tried the evening’s special, a shrimp étouffée over creamy grits. A riff on the iconic New Orleans dish, this would be better described as a light Cajun shrimp and grits. But whatever the name, it was delicious. My husband gave high marks to the steak and frites, a perfectly grilled Wagyu with a peppercorn sauce. We came away encouraged. We’ll be back.
Photos by Tina Rondeau
