As for me, Seasons 52 is my go-to spot for casual dining when I'm in the States. You might ask, why? Easy-peasy, the three magic words: Lunch, Happy Hour, and Dinner. And the ultimate cherry on top? Their specialty in seasonal menu options. Not many places change their menu according to the season and available local ingredients, which really intrigued me and kind of added that element of surprise.
Interestingly, you'd be amazed to find out that Seasons 52 is under the banner of Darden Restaurants, the same guys that gave us Olive Garden and Red Lobster. Now, that's reassuring! Their strategy of a floating menu capitalizing on fresh ingredients and, well, seasons coupled with an impressive hand-picked wine collection by their in-house sommelier, Brian Phillips, is something worth giving a shot.
Sounds like a unique concept, right? It actually came about when Darden Restaurants realized their customers' affinity for fresh ingredients and healthy cooking techniques. So, they gave rise to the first ever Seasons 52 back in 2003 in sunny Orlando, Florida. Now, they've grown and expanded in states such as New York, New Jersey, Illinois, Alabama, and California, amassing more than 40 locations as of September 2018. Talk about growth!
The core items on the menu are starters, soups and salads, entrees, desserts, and an elaborate wine list with more than 100 bottles. To know more, do visit their official website.
Why Seasons 52 Captured My Palette?
Well, it's simple. It’s the novelty behind the floating menu. You see, their menu is as dynamic as the four seasons themselves. They revolve based on available ingredients and that adds a real excitement of anticipation for me. To think that no other joint near me uses such a variable yet fresh approach!
Fun fact for you foodies, the name Seasons 52 is actually symbolic of their concept of changing the menu 52 times a year (Imagine that!). They’ve got a wine list including a staggering 52 options that can be ordered by the glass- another unique yet thoughtful touch.
Also, what caught my attention was their servings; their commitment lies in serving light yet bursting-with-flavor dishes. To my surprise, each item on the Seasons 52 menu has under 595 calories. Furthermore, the level of sophistication they offer with private dining rooms and valet parking really brought a distinguished dining experience for me.
So, What's Cooking at Seasons 52?
Despite a menu that changes 52 times a year, they've maintained a core menu available at every location. Depending on the availability and local sources, some ingredients may differ, but the standard menu stays put. The categories for the Seasons 52 menu are as follows:
On my visits, I've fallen in love with their cocktails and intriguing wine and flatbread combos. Happy hour, available every 3 - 6 pm daily, also includes to-share items such as Avocado Toast (my fave!), Slow-Roasted Meatballs, and Lump Crab Cake, among others.
Personally, I’m a fan of their lunch but others do agree that the Mahi-Mahi Tacos, Wood-grilled Steak Tacos, and Naked Cheeseburger are a revelation!
I was truly blown over by their 'Mini Indulgences'; desserts served in shot glasses, like Cinnamon Crumb and Pecan Pie, to name a few!
At dinner, alongside pita-style flatbread, I was treated with starters and entrees like half-portion Rotisserie Chicken and Wood-Grilled Filet Mignon!
Do bear in mind that due to seasonal changes some of these items may not be available when you visit the restaurant.
The Season's Best Selling Items
Of course, there are those all-time popular items on the Seasons 52 menu, like:
- Grilled Shrimp and Avocado Cocktail
- Roasted Tomato Flatbread
- Tomato Cheddar Soup
- Wood-Grilled Handline Tuna
- Sesame-Grilled Salmon
- Salad Roasted Cauliflower Florets
- Espresso Panna Cotta
And their flatbreads are to die for! They're a perfect companion with their wine list.
And They Treat Vegans Equally!
Oh yes! Season 52 is well known for its distinct vegan and vegetarian menu. It’s really refreshing to find Roasted Tomato Flatbread without cheese, Grilled Artichokes with Preserved Lemon Hummus, and Avocado Toast, among others, on the menu. Always remember to confirm certain menu items at your local Seasons 52 branch, especially if you're planning to go vegan for the night!
And There's Something For The Little Ones Too...
Kids are not left out either, as they offer kid-friendly menu options like Flatbread, Kid’s Burger, and Mac and Cheese. There’s also a variety of soups and entrees depending on the location. That’s a family night out sorted!
Are They Open When You Need Them?
While opening hours may vary, Seasons 52 generally opens for lunch, happy hour, and dinner every day starting typically from 11 am to 10 pm.
Can I Take My Order To-Go?
As a frequent traveler, I found it really convenient that Seasons 52 offers take-out or curbside pick-up, which you can order online or through their app. However, they don't offer delivery. So, essentially make your order, pay online, and pick it up at your local Seasons 52 hot and ready!
My Personal Take on Seasons 52
Pros
- Floating menu keeping it fresh and interesting
- Fan of their Happy Hour and its unique pairings
- Variety of vegan and vegetarian options available
- Convenient 'curbside pick-up' option
- Private dining rooms and valet parking add a touch of sophistication
Cons
- Unavailable delivery option
- The timing of Happy Hour might clash with work hours
- Seasonal menu changes could disappoint if favorite dish is no longer available
While my experience was quite positive overall, the lack of delivery can be a major letdown for some, and those delightful Happy hours aren't quite going to work for those still stuck in the office. However, it’s worth mentioning that their ever-changing seasonal menu contributes to a more immersive and delicious journey throughout the year!