The new regime at The Veranda, led by Chef Robey, has brought a truly memorable New Orleans experience within reach of those, like myself, who don't get back to the real thing as often as we'd like. The food is superb, innovative while still remaining true to its cajun/creole roots. THe service and atmosphere are also excellent, but make no mistake, the stars of the show are the ever changing menu and the expertly conceived and prepared dishes. I would already compare the output of this kitchen favorably to any in the Birmingham area. A true delight.

What a fantastic outcome for this place which has gone through so many management changes. Upon arrival, my party of 6 was seated in a private room with a long white table cloth draped table. Drink orders were immediately taken by a waiter who was both professional and friendly without crossing the boundary of being too casual with the customers (as many do). He came close though.

We all ordered vodka drinks with different vodka requests (Stoli, Finlandia, Shopin) and we were all accomodated. The drinks were excellent.

The Veranda House salad was excellent in every way. The vegetables and fruits were fresh and tasty. The portion was appropriate, and the vinaigrette dressing tart, but not too tart.

I had a mustard crusted smoked pork shoulder and it was fantastic. A dish I will remember. My wife had the seared diver scallops which, while less inventive, were excellent for that particular dish.

While there, we toured the upstairs dining area, event area, and wine cellar. The current owners have done a great job with that space which is now very elegant and nicely appointed whereas it used to feel very cramped and "standard."

The only dissappointment was dessert. My wife's peanut butter pie was not good. My creme brulee was average.

The wine list was extensive, but was lacking in selection at the lower end of the price range.

So far so good with the new Veranda. Hopefully they will continue on the right track.

I went to Veranda for the first time on Thanksgiving and was beyond impressed!

We had reservations, and while we had to wait a few minutes (they were packed!), the Chef came out and greeted us and assured us we would be seated very soon.

I had a salad (the Veranda salad, which had a great tart dressing), while others at my table tried the turtle soup and the rabbit gumbo. The rabbit gumbo got rave reviews!

For out main courses, we sampled different things on their Thanksgiving menu. The lamb was cooked perfectly. Nobody at our table had a single complaint. The food was so fresh, which is something I can't say for many other places.

My family visited Vernada on Highland Sunday for brunch. As soon as we entered the door we heard a live jazz band and instantly thought we had been transformed to New Orleans. The restaurant is beautiful and has a comfortable ambiance. The service is good and the food delicious. The only complaint we had was that the kitchen was a bit slow. After ordering it took a while to get appetizers and then we had to wait another 20 minutes or so to get our main courses. Once we did get our food we were pleased. We will visit again with hopes that we just caught the kitchen on an off day.

By far my favorite location for brunch in Birmingham...their shrimp & grits are incredible and the portions are nice and filling. We have been impressed by everything we've tried there accept for the soups (good but not great). Also love the Dixieland Jazz provided by Sweet Licks!