Bobby’s: Go for the burgers and the beef
I have always thought it a bit strange when a reviewer goes to a highly regarded restaurant that is known for its specialties, and pans dishes that clearly are not the reason most diners go in the first place.
After all, in the real world, how many people go to a fish house if they are craving tortellini al prosciutto.
Which brings us to Bobby’s, our favorite beachside hangout when we have a hankering for great burgers or steaks. That (and the clubby ambience) clearly are why nine out of 10 diners are willing to queue up at the bar while waiting for a table.
The burgers (whether the All American hamburger, the cheeseburger, or the Bobby’s burger), are among the best you will ever taste, and Bobby’s more elaborate entrées – steaks and ribs – are pretty darn good as well.
So on a recent visit, did we stick with the tried and true? Nooo. Foolish us, my husband and I decided after we were seated that this was probably a night for seafood.
Bobby’s always has a catch-of-the-day, which on this evening was grouper ($24.95). So my husband ordered the parmesan crusted variation, while I opted for the broiled sea scallops ($22.95).
Both of the entrees came to the table slightly overcooked. A couple of lemon wedges brought them within the range of acceptable, but suffice it to say on our next visit to Bobby’s, we will be ordering red meat.
Actually, the decision to try something other than burgers was not entirely inexplicable, for on several previous visits, this impulse was well rewarded.
On one occasion, I had the prime rib ($24 for the 12-ounce size; $27 for the 16-ouncer) which is touted on the menu as “local’s favorite.” The prime rib, juicy and tender, may well have been worthy of this accolade.
Another time, I had a flatiron steak ($18.95) served with five shrimp prepared scampi style in a wonderful garlic. Then there are the steak tidbits, strips of marinated London broil served open face with gravy on garlic bread. Bobby’s says this is its number one seller, and it is easy to see why. The steak is as tender and tasty as you could possibly ask, and at $11.95, the price is more than right.
My husband’s favorite among the steaks is the New York Strip (16 oz for $29, 12 oz for $26), though he also occasionally has the 10 oz filet ($31) with Béarnaise sauce on the side. He generally orders the strip Au Poivre style served with cracked black pepper and topped with a light brandy cream sauce (an additional $3.50).
When we opt for appetizers, our favorites are the sautéed crab cakes ($11.95), which themselves can make a delicious light meal, and the fried calamari ($10.95), lightly battered and served with a tangy marinara sauce.
On this most recent visit, I started with a very tasty Manhattan seafood chowder, while my husband was content with the house salads that come with each entrée -- a nice mix of greens, cucumbers and tomatoes with a variety of tasty dressings.
I would also be remiss in not noting another entrée we have tried on previous occasions – Bobby’s baby backs ($22.95), a rack of seasoned and flavorful glazed ribs which are better than those at any of the rib houses in the area.
Dinner for two with a modest bottle of wine, before tip, runs about $80. If you stick to burgers, the tab with wine runs about $60.
The take home message from this review is that after all these years, Bobby’s is still going strong. Stick with burgers, ribs and steaks, and you are certain to go home happy.
I welcome your comments, and encourage you to send feedback to me at tina@verobeach32963.com.
The reviewer is a beachside resident who dines anonymously at restaurants at the expense of Vero Beach 32963.
Hours
Daily, 11:30 am to midnight
Bar
Full Bar
Address (MAP)
3450 Ocean Drive, Vero Beach, Telephone: (772) 231-6996
