diningreview5
A sad statistic we hate reporting on in the restaurant world is that the majority of businesses don’t make it into their fourth year. Seeing the revolving door is a very real thing, so when places have true staying power, they deserve all the recognition they can get.
Two stalwarts in Southwest Florida have hit a milestone in 2018: The Veranda, a grand dame in Fort Myers’ River District that exudes old Southern charm by the honeypot, has turned 40. And M Waterfront Grille, a serene and sleek fine dining haven in Naples’ The Village Shops on Venetian Bay, is now 30.
Both managed to stay current—and true to their roots—with slight tweaks to menu and appearance. The Veranda has incorporated lighter fare into its ultra-traditional steak and seafood offerings; M Waterfront renovated the entire space several years ago and recently brought back chef Adam Nardis, who had been a steadying hand in the kitchen. At the rate they’re going, we’re hoping—and betting—we’ll be able to write about their 50th and 60th anniversaries.