I met Scott Varricchio, Owner and Executive Chef at Citrus in Vero Beach, while seated side by side judging the United Against Poverty Burgers and Brews competition last month. While there, I got to know more about his impressive resume, as well as his passion and commitment to his restaurant. Although it would be a busy night at the restaurant, he had made time that day to give back to the community at Burgers and Brews. I had been to Citrus once before- with another couple on an upscale date night. I remember we all enjoyed our meal of fresh fish and a crisp, beautifully paired wine, but we simply had not gone back. Per their website, Citrus boasts an “American Style Bistro, oceanfront restaurant where the dishes are simple classics, with Italian and Mediterranean inspired origins.” Chef Scott’s dishes are always evolving and changing with the seasons, using regionally grown produce and specialty meats and seafood.
After learning that Citrus offers an “early dining” option, I decided to head back a second time (one year later) to show off the gorgeous ocean view (its crowning glory!) to my son and his girlfriend, visiting from Colorado. You can make a reservation, and this time I made sure to request outdoor seating, which works pretty well even in the heat of summer because you have a roof over your head with plenty of fans running. The early dining menu is attractive price-wise because you get your choice of Two Courses for $28, $2 off beers and cocktails, and you can add a bottle of House Wine for $15. My son got a local grapefruit-flavored IPA, and his girlfriend and I split a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc.
Now, feast your eyes on the magnificent view (stellar photo-op location) and the delicious food
we enjoyed!
The Haystack (Left) is a small plate of field greens topped with tomato, cucumber, carrot, and an herbed red wine vinaigrette. Crisp and fresh, it did not disappoint! Bacon (Middle) is a starter that will make your mouth water, and it’s a slice of roasted, thick-cut applewood smoked bacon topped with a bourbon-fig glaze. The chew with its sweet finish is a winning combination. Watermelon (Right) is a very refreshing summer starter option. They elevate it by compressing it, then tossing it with tomato, onion, and cucumber. This is topped off with a whipped feta & honey-lime vinaigrette. Delicious!
A grilled Norwegian Salmon filet is served with parmesan orzo, blistered tomato, and a charred tomato vinaigrette. Cooked medium, it came out perfectly. The orzo was fine, but I do wish the menu had more side dish offerings to put with the main entree selections. I also would have loved some type of bread service.
A pan-roasted breast of Chicken, tender and juicy, served with potato puree and broccolini, in chicken jus. My son Logan finished every bite of this succulent dish!
Dessert – Bite-sized assorted mini cheesecakes (something for everyone’s taste!) and a slice of chocolate mousse pie with caramel sauce. A great way to end the evening!
Citrus Grillhouse
Address: 1050 Easter Lily Ln, Vero Beach, FL 32963
Phone: (772) 234-4114
https://www.citrusgrillhouse.com/
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