Today we’d like to introduce you to Tiara and Luis Marenco.
Built in 1996, The Veranda is a fine dining restaurant featuring hand-cut steaks and fresh seafood. The Executive Chefs are a husband and wife team, Tiara and Luis Marenco. Tiara’s parents are the owners of The Veranda and had two children, Tiara, and James, both becoming chefs after trying other careers.
Tiara and Luis met in culinary school, at Culinary Institute LeNotre, here in Houston. Both graduate Magna Cummerbund Laude after years of classical French cuisine education. Since getting married, Luis joined Tiara in her kitchen at The Veranda. Together they concentrate on using fresh ingredients and offering specials that showcase local foods.
The Veranda is unique in the fact that it is also a Culinary Institute approved “teaching kitchen”. Each year, The Veranda offers internships to both high school and college students, to help them get a feel for working in the industry. Students come from neighboring high school ISD’s and college campuses such as The Art Institute, Culinary Institute LeNotre, Houston Community College, and Escoffier Culinary Institute. Luis and Tiara focus their efforts in growing and connecting their community, Tiara grew up in Kingwood, so returning there to run the kitchen was simply natural. Now they are committed to sharing their love of food with their customers, some of whom travel long distances to dine.
The Veranda requires reservations and is a “never turn” restaurant. Once you have your table, it is your table all night. The owner, Pat Guard, prides herself in telling guests, “we will never rush you out to reseat the table. Once it has been reserved, it is considered ‘full’ from open to close.”Tiara and Luis Marenco are proud to be a part of a family owned and operated restaurant for almost 25 years now.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It has not always been easy. A few years ago when Houston was hit by Hurricane Harvey, Kingwood endures severe flooding. All businesses suffered as a result. The Kingwood community, however, is strong. Houston has come together to rebuild and support their local businesses and we feel so blessed to be a part of that.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about The Veranda – what should we know?
The Veranda restaurant sets itself apart by the attention it gives to its guests. Soft candlelight on black cloth covered tables, accent the hand-cut steaks and fresh seafood. The music is soft and the wine flows in unique Go Texan glasses. All entrees are paired with the chef’s selection of starch and vegetable. Whether guests are celebrating a special night or just enjoying a moment away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Tiara and Luis dedicate themselves and their food knowledge to ensure each person has a remarkable experience. The Veranda has a reputation for marriage proposals too!
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
Without the support of our guests, we wouldn’t be here today. We are so excited to be celebrating 25 years of service to our city and look forward to many more years to come!
Pricing:
- Filet Mignon – $36
- Fire and Ice Shrimp – $9
- Creme Brulee – $7
Contact Info:
- Address: 2820 Chestnut Ridge Dr
Kingwood, Texas 77339 - Website: www.verandakingwood.com
- Phone: 281-358-2820
- Email: info@verandakingwood.com
- Facebook: Facebook.com/theveranda
Image Credit:
Pat Guard
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