We are truly pleased to announce that Maria Costa has returned to the Sandbar as Chef. After leaving for her native New Jersey, to assist with the care of her grandmother, she realized that Carteret County is forevermore home. "I missed my life here. And, I missed working at the Sandbar," she says.

Fortunately, Sandbar owner Claire Tulevech bumped into Maria while supermarket shopping. Maria had decided to return to Carteret County and further her education in Culinary Technologies and Hotel and Restaurant Management. "Sometimes things happen for a reason, and I quickly asked Maria to return to the Sandbar," Claire says.

Regular diners will quickly note the Sandbar's new 2008 menu changes. Chicken, Salmon, Steaks and Veal can be served in a diner's choice of specially prepared sauces -Picatta, Peasant, Privateer and Salvatore. Petite (lunch) portions of these culinary delights are available. "We offer great service, and we want to give our customers the meals and drinks that help make their day even more enjoyable," says Maria.

Maria has been working in the restaurant industry for 27 years, and she enjoys creating new dishes and especially making her clients happy. Maria's love of the restaurant business has also lured her sons. To The Sandbar. Joseph Costa is Sandbar's Sous Chef, and son Christoper Held is assisting with the bar keeping and wait staff. (Son Anthony works in the restaurant business, too).

Sean Gilchrist, who has worked at the Sandbar for several years, will once again be serving and assisting in the front of The Sandbar. He is Dining Manager. "Your dining experience at The Sandbar will hopefully be one you truly enjoy, and will bring you back many times during the year," Sean says. "We will open the Tiki Bar in April, just in time for warmer weather."

Watching Gallant's Channel, the Beaufort (Grayden Paul) drawbridge and the Newport River from the porch of The Sandbar gives one a unique perspective of relaxation. Located upstairs at Town Creek, The Sandbar offers diners a breathtaking setting and a memorable meal. Sandbar diners, and Tiki Bar-flies, can watch frisky dolphins playing in the water for endless amusement. The spectacular sunsets can be truly amazing.