Cuisine:

• Others
• Mediterranean
• American
• Contemporary

Varanese Description:
The auto repair shop origins of the building that housed the late RED Lounge were obvious in the garage doors that rolled up to reveal two dining bays. Now extensively remodeled, the structure was bumped out and the front wall consists of a series of French doors that unfold to provide al fresco dining. Chef-owner John Varanese's Mediterranean-American menu highlights nightly specials based on the best ingredients the chef has that day. Fresh fish comes grilled and garnished simply. Appetizer mainstays include an intriguing curried lamb and lentil soup. Light but satisfying bites are provided by sandwiches such as lump crab cake dressed with spicy slaw and served on a toasted sesame bun. Main dishes are almost equally divided between grilled and pasta preparations. Grilled salmon comes over cream cheese grits. Add either chicken or shrimp to aromatic angel hair pasta with herbs. A welcome retro dish is the generously portioned prime rib, updated with mushroom and Parmesan risotto. Desserts utilize fruit as much as chocolate. The peaches-and-cream crêpes are served with a rich vanilla bean ice cream; a chocolate torte is laced with raspberry and mango. Service is not quite yet as polished as the venue and the menu, but doesn't detract from the experience, either. The wine list is extensive, although it's missing any good rosé, and offers a mix of both familiar and unusual selections from around the globe. Sensitive to wine service, the restaurant uses good-quality glassware for its wine patrons.


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