Sandbox — Restaurant in Port Macquarie

We have visited the Sandbox regularly over the last three years, during Easter breaks, Winter holidays and Springtime. It had been a favourite morning spot during this time, with lovely staff and beautiful views. However after todays experience I will no longer be visiting. Service at the checkout was lovely, food and coffee was average, however the table staff were rude allowing people to jump the queue for sought after tables, despite many people ahead of them waiting patiently. Abruptly demanding people to move to keep areas clear, but then turning a blind eye to others doing the same thing. Killed the experience feeling like a sheep being herded around, no apologies no acknowledgement or query as to whether we were waiting for a table despite standing around with our drinks while we waited for our food. Even customers already seated were more aware, offering us their table as they were leaving, only to be snapped at by the head wait lady, no I have allocated the table to these people who had clearly come in after us. Just as this happened our food arrived indicating the length of time we had been waiting. Very sad to say goodbye to this spot after many years visiting, but will not be returning to be treated this way and will not be recommending to anyone else. The Sandbox has...

Fantastic spot for a good feed. Fast, polite and attentive service. The girls on the day we visited (I believe some sort of SLS event was on) were exceptionally on the ball: cleaning, managing the crowds, taking orders and serving - All with a friendly and professional attitude! The Spring Salad Bowl ($16) was ENORMOUS, loads of fresh, good quality greens and seasoned well. Added chicken, which I'd recommend for the non-veggos. Great without though. Burger was fantastic for beachside kiosk standards, well priced too ($14). Brewed chai was flavourful, though I found it a little heavy handed on the milk and slightly lacking in spiciness (personal preference though). Overall, great spot for a chill brunch while exploring the east coast. Would return...

Genuinely one of the best cafes we have ever been to! We’ve been 2 mornings in a row now, can’t wait to go back again. Food was incredible. Service was excellent!!! All the staff were working incredibly hard to clear tables and get people seated as fast as possible. One of the workers (I assume a manager - he was all over it!!!). Food arrived to our table and he wasn’t happy with the quality of the halloumi so he returned and fixed it! (Honestly I didn’t even know anything was wrong!) He took time to check on everyone regarding meals - despite being run off his feet! Have never seen such hard working hospitality staff who all seem like they genuinely care about the service to their customers!!! Also, extra bonus we saw whales just off the...