FORT MYERS, Fla. (Oct. 1, 2014) – Thirty-six years adds up to a lot of stories and memories. Engagements, weddings, first dates, business negotiations, political fundraisers, anniversaries and much more have all occurred at downtown Fort Myers’ restaurant institution, the Veranda.

October marks the last month for anyone who shares a story on the Veranda’s Facebook or Twitter page to be eligible to win a drawing for a $100 gift card.

“Everyone has a Veranda story, as we’ve seen from our six-month social media campaign,” said Craig Peden, who owns and operates the Veranda with his father Paul. “The Veranda has a special place in so many lives, and we are thankful to everyone who has shared their stories with us.”

September’s drawing winner is Kristin Sheehan.

“My most special memory at the Veranda will take place on January 17, 2015 where I get to marry the man of my dreams in your beautiful courtyard,” posted Sheehan. “From the second I walked through the doors at this beautiful venue, we knew it was perfect for the two of us to share our love with both of our families. I was even more certain after my meal that we had made the perfect decision.”

Veranda patrons may participate by sharing a story on the restaurant’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Veranda/83202578325 or its Twitter page at https://twitter.com/verandafm.

According to Peden, patrons may share as many stories as often as they’d like on the Veranda’s social media pages and do not have to live in Southwest Florida.

“We are proud to be celebrating 36 years of operation,” he said. “We could not have survived more than three decades without continually providing an exceptional dining experience in an idyllic setting.”

The Veranda is housed in two, turn-of-the-century Victorian homes in the heart of downtown Fort Myers. The restaurant features Southern regional cuisine with a full bar, extensive wine list and first-class service in a romantic setting. Lunch is served Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m.; a mid-day menu is served Monday through Friday from 2 to 4 p.m., and dinner is served Monday through Saturday from 5:30 p.m. until 10 p.m. Private dining is also available from 10 to 400 guests. Live entertainment is featured in the Veranda’s piano lounge Wednesday through Saturday evenings from 6:30 to 9:30. Valet or street parking is available.

For reservations and more information, call 239-332-2065 or visit www.verandarestaurant.com.