Bluecoast Seafood Grill & Raw Bar Bethany — Restaurant in Fenwick Island

Whenever we visit our favorite state-side vacation area, Bethany Beach- no visit is complete without a trip to Bluecoast.

The theme of my review is above and beyond, because that it what we experienced during our most recent trip: above and beyond service from the entire staff.

Upon arriving at Bluecoast, we were informed of the 1.5 hr wait. Having come to Bluecoast every summer, we knew to expect the wait. The hostess went above and beyond to find a place for us to sit while we waited outside as my five-year old son was tired from a long, fun day at the beach.

The outdoor area is as enjoyable as the interior of the restaurant. Comfortable 'beach chique' furniture, and pleasant lighting.

After we found seats, a server greeted us. To say he was busy, was an understatement. But despite his workload, he too treated us with sheer kindness and gave us wonderful service.

While it happens every time we go to Bluecoast, It's always hard to believe that some people can find a reason to complain about an expected wait at a beautiful, beach-side restaurant that provides great service, and keeps the champagne and wine flowing. Despite the beatings that the staff takes, they keep their good service, respect, and charm at full speed at all times.

Our outside server came to check on us, refilling drinks, checking in on the status of our wait. He was wonderful.

After our wait, the charming hostess took us to our table. Our server was outstanding. She thanked us for our patience during the wait, and flawlessly described the specials, answered questions, and replenished our drinks.

The little guy was pretty tired after the wait (it was nearly 10 pm by this point), so we opted to have appetizers and his entree at the table (which he loved), while taking the adults in our parties' entrees home.

Our server was completely understanding and had the waitstaff pack our entrees to go.

As always, the food did not disappoint. From the soft shell crab entree,to the crab carbonara - each dish was a hit.

Bluecoast is worth the wait. Every time. Bluecoast is always the highlight of our vacation.

Thank you, Bluecoast, for always being such a special treat for us! We cannot wait until...

WELCOME: We were a family group of 10 on a summer Monday and called to check seating availability at 7:30pm. After being told to arrive immediately, half of us rushed out to secure the table. By 7:45 we were standing in the crowded bar trying to get the frenzied bartenders attention while we waited on the rest of our group to arrive. Once they did we were shown to a large round table in the corner. There was not much air circulation but it was nice to be able to sit together instead of splitting into 6 and 4, which is what we had been prepared to do with such a large group.

SERVICE: Our waiter was charming but could not possibly have come around to serve the far reaches of this table.

BEVERAGE: I do have to mention that the wine we ordered was a different year than what was listed on the wine menu. When it arrived at our table we called attention to that but no price adjustment was forthcoming. Perhaps the wine menu should not be that specific, or the wine cellar made larger.

FOOD: The food was tasty and overall well-executed. We ordered the BlueCoast Tots ($17), Fried Calamari ($17) and Mussels ($16) to share. We also shared 2 dozen PEI oysters. My husband had the Lobster Cavatappi ($34) and the spiral pasta was the right vehicle to convey the delicate white cheddar and bacon sauce. I chose the Wedge Salad ($16) with a broiled Crab Cake. It was a good crab cake despite being on the smaller side, and since we’re close enough to the Maryland state border I made an exception to my self-imposed rule of never ordering crab cakes outside of Maryland. The Daily Fish Board offers a choice from 3 fish, and this week it was being served over cous-cous and grilled peaches. Our companion who ordered the salmon was very happy.

DÉCOR: With all the glass and wood that makes it a chic place, it’s quite loud, so...

While waiting for a table, the three of us went to the bar to grab a quick drink. We patiently waited to get served, but the bartenders seemed to be ignoring us and continued to serve other patrons who came to the bar AFTER us to also get drinks while they waited for a table. We were skipped three times. Both bartenders were aware of our presence. They made eye contact with us when we walked in and even pointed at us and whispered behind our backs while we were waiting. At no point were we rude or out of line. We eventually grew impatient, and I politely asked one of the bartenders if we could order drinks when he had a moment. The bartender seemed annoyed and replied, 'Yeah, in a second.' Five minutes went by, and you guessed it, we were skipped and he took an order from another patron. In total, we spent 15+ minutes at the bar without being served. At no point were they overwhelmed, and it seemed like they were refusing to serve us. At that point, our table was ready. We left the bar to be seated, and thankfully our waiter was great! He was courteous, respectful, and professional. Our food came out quickly, and our appetizers and entrees were delicious. Unfortunately, the tuna in my poke was frozen, but the waiter graciously took it back and gave me the choice of another dish on the house. I chose the fish fry and thoroughly enjoyed it. The signature cocktails could have been better, but I did not expect anything less. If not for the very unpleasant experience at the bar, I would have had a very pleasant evening. Both bartenders were unprofessional and made the restaurant as a whole look bad.

(Please note the 1 star review for service only reflects on that of the bartenders. Our waiter could not have...