Nestled along picturesque Royal Palm Point, Cooper’s for lunch on a Friday seemed to be the perfect way to kick off a weekend. Chef/owner Daniel Wise opened this gem last November, and it’s looking to be a smashing success. I honestly wish I hadn’t waited so long to check it out.
Cooper’s lineup of quality, affordable lunch, lively happy hour, and fine dining for dinner means there’s truly something for everyone! The casual, yet classic coastal vibe is well appointed without being pretentious, and the full sized bar is beautiful. My friend Robin and I chose a sunny booth by a window and began the difficult process of what to order. Each item was calling out to us!
I chatted with John (manager) who quickly offered to pour the “cocktail of the day” in two separate glasses, so we could each have a little taste. The “Goombay Smash” was smashingly delicious, with its coconut rum and fresh juices. While enjoying the river canal view with its many boats at dock, we then moved on to the food. Here’s what we enjoyed:
Venetian Shrimp Crostini – This warm and decadent starter item was an All Star, with large sautéed gulf shrimp in a tomato basil garlic butter cream sauce, served on toasted crostinis. We didn’t want it to end so we wouldn’t let the server, David, take the sauce away when we finished the shrimp crostinis! We knew we could dip the frites in it.
Cooper’s Chophouse Tacos – These come two to an order, on grilled white corn tortillas. Options include crispy chicken, grilled shrimp, fried catch of the day, or butter lobster for a couple bucks more. Of course, I’m a lobster girl and had to go that route. Crisp house slaw, sweet tomato and tangy onion finish out these tacos. The lobster was lightly seasoned, and the crispness of the tortilla with the soft, tender lobster works very well. The salsa Rojas dipping sauce gave it a fun little kick without taking over. For the frites, I suggest the truffle Parmesan option. Crispy on the outside, and soft in the middle, I was on cloud nine!
Cooper’s Grilled Angus Beef Burger – This was the $10 lunch special of the day. We ordered it “medium” and it was cooked perfectly, and oh so juicy! Served with aged cheddar, sweet onion, greens, tomato and pickled cucumber. The burger had a char-crisp on the edges, a soft bun on top, and it married the condiments in each well-balanced bite!
Closed Monday/Tuesdays, the rest of the week is busy with the popular $10 lunch specials, the live music scene on the patio from 4-6pm, (12-5 on Sundays) and dinner (reservations accepted). It is worth noting that they offer both clams and oysters on the half shell, all sourced from your choice of Sebastian, FL or Norwalk Islands, CT. A seafood lover’s delight for sure!
Cooper’s Chop House & Seafood
Address: 30 Royal Palm Pointe, Vero Beach, FL 32960
Phone: (772) 907-5771
https://www.cooperschophouse.com/
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The shrimps look fantastic. Ill have to try it there some day 🙂 Thanks for sharing!