Beach Restaurants & Entertainment years with the Pelican Bay Foundation, part of a distinguished 28-year career in the hospitality industry. His culinary journey began in Livonia, Michigan, where his love for cooking was nurtured by his mother and grandmother. Starting in restaurants at the age of 15, he quickly realized the culinary world was his true calling, drawing inspiration from chefs like Bobby Flay. His leadership has been instrumental in guiding the Sandbar through its recent reopening, unveiling a brand-new kitchen and a refreshed dining space ready to welcome guests. From the newly renovated kitchen, he and his talented team have earned rave reviews for their creative and versatile approach to a variety of cuisines, including Caribbean, coastal, Italian, and Asian fusion. His vision emphasizes fresh, local ingredients blended with innovative techniques. Beyond his culinary skills, what truly sets him apart is his commitment to mentorship. He has passionately cultivated his team, developing many H-2B visa staff members into a core group of culinary leaders, ensuring that his dedication to excellence and innovation shines through in every dish served at the Sandbar. The Nest The Nest serves as a charming and convenient beach bar and takeout spot, perfectly situated just south of Sandbar. It is designed for casual, selfservice ease, offering delicious food delivered directly from the acclaimed Sandbar kitchen. It is the ideal spot to grab refreshing drinks, including a variety of hand-crafted cocktails, classic frozen beverages, and the now-famous “Frosé.” Housed in a cozy 400-square-foot building, The Nest provides an intimate and relaxed atmosphere. The venue offers limited indoor seating for eight and outdoor seating for six, perfect for a quick rest in the shade. For those looking to enjoy their snacks and drinks with a view of the sand and surf, additional picnic tables are conveniently located on the beach just under The Nest balcony. This setup makes it the ultimate grab-and-go destination for beachgoers seeking both quality and convenience during their day. As we enter a new and exciting new season, we invite you to explore the latest culinary creations from our team. You can find all our updated menus, make reservations and view the current hours of operation for our beach restaurants at pelicanbay.org. Chef Sean McKenna taste of the coast...continued from page 53 Pelican Bay Lifestyle Guide 2026 54 PelicanBay.org
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