TWO years after fire swept through the Nelson Bay Golf Club and restaurant, the popular Bluewater Grill will reopen its doors this week.

It has been a tough couple of years for Bluewater owners Will and Tanya Semmens, but they can finally see a light at the end of the tunnel.

“Working out of the makeshift clubhouse has been difficult, particularly the last 12 months … we had to sell our home,” Mr Semmens said.

“But we can now move forward with confidence. We are looking forward to starting again.

“We see the reopening in a brand new building as a great opportunity to build on the close relationship we have with our loyal customers and hope to attract a host of new ones.

“We are extremely grateful to the local members who have stuck by us through these difficult times.”

Diners will notice lots of changes with the décor and seating capacity, which has doubled from the current 60 to more than 120.

The menu will feature modern Australian cuisine and retains chef Tanya’s signature salt and pepper squid, along with family favourites such as beef cheeks and lambs fry.

“There will also be a bigger emphasis on the café section with coffees and freshly homemade cakes,” Mr Semmens said.

“In fact all our meals are made to order, using only fresh local produce.”

The Bluewater will also cater for weddings, parties and conferences, along with golf groups, fundraisers and the like.

Families will be made most welcome with the inclusion of a children’s play area strategically placed adjacent to the restaurant.

Mr Semmens said that the restaurant employed up to 20 staff including chefs, waiters and kitchen hands, and that customer service remained a priority.

The Bluewater Grill is open every day from 10am to 9pm and bookings are essential.

The restaurant is situated in the newly built Nelson Bay Golf Club, in Dowling Street. To book telephone 4981 4256 or go to bluewatergrill.net.au.

 

By Charlie ELIAS