Rod and Gun Club

Rod and Gun Club Review

The striking, polished pecky-cypress woodwork in this historic building dates from the 1920s, when wealthy hunters, anglers, and yachting parties from around the world arrived for the winter season. Presidents Hoover, Roosevelt, Truman, Eisenhower, and Nixon stopped by here, as have Ernest Hemingway, Burt Reynolds, and Mick Jagger. The main dining room holds overflow from the popular, expansive screened porch overlooking the river. Like life in general here, friendly servers move slowly and upkeep is minimal. Fresh seafood dominates, from stone crab claws in season (October 15-May 15) to a surf-and-turf combo of steak and grouper, a swamp-and-turf combo of frogs' legs and steak, and seafood and pasta pairings. For $14.95 you can have your own catch fried, broiled, or blackened, and served with salad, veggies, and potato. Pie offerings include key lime and chocolate-peanut butter. Be aware that separate checks are discouraged and there's a $5 plate-sharing charge. Yesteryear's main lobby is well worth a look—even if you plan to eat elsewhere. Arrive by boat or land.