The year 1985 marked the opening of what would soon become a favorite gathering place for island locals and one of the top dining and entertainment spots to enjoy while on vacation.
What made family-owned Nolan’s Restaurant so popular? It may have been the lively atmosphere combined with a sense of comfortable familiarity, even if it was your first visit. Perhaps the incredible flavor of the legendary Steerbutt Steak, or Greek-Style Grouper or Snapper drew folks in. Others might say it was the top-notch band that was there each night for listening and dancing.
The memories of all those things – and more – will forever linger in the hearts and minds of the loyal patrons. Those memories, though, were all that remained after Hurricane Ivan buried it in 2004. The kitchen, dining area, bar, dance floor . . . all swept away from the East Beach location, in a matter of just a few hours.
But WELCOME BACK, Nolan’s – we’ve missed you!
Yes, the grand opening of the beautiful new Nolan’s Restaurant was July 1, and the buzz on the island is that of pure excitement. Now located at Sawgrass Landing (on Hwy. 59 just north of Waterville – 251-948-2111), wonderful new memories are already being formed.
The warm, classy atmosphere (you guessed it – table cloths and candlelight) will welcome hungry diners, as the old favorite dishes mingle with new menu items in a sumptuous variety to suit all palates.
Signature beverages have been added – Godiva Chocolate Martini, anyone? Or Millionaire’s Coffee? – but the famous Long Island Tea in the quart-size Mason jar again plays a starring role.
The new house band, Midnight Confessions, will lure you onto the dance floor Monday through Saturday nights, so be sure to bring your dancing shoes. Dancer or not, you will marvel at the group’s talented sax player as he strolls through the restaurant and lounge, even stopping for some tableside solos. Cameras are encouraged!
The great service and friendly staff played a strong role in making the old Nolan’s the place to be. You can count on a continuation of that customer-centered philosophy, so expect to find yourself drawn back there time after time.
The locals’ gathering place has returned. And so has a new favorite gathering place for our area’s guests. And no matter which group you belong to, the folks at Nolan’s Restaurant can’t wait to serve you.
