'Big Chill' beachfront event venue slated for May
La Vida Hospitality Group has announced the addition of a new, family-friendly restaurant that will likely give crowds another reason to hit the beach.
Opening on the southeast side of the Indian River Inlet, Big Chill Beach Club will offer 360 degree views of the Atlantic Ocean, Indian River Inlet and Indian River Bay, as well as beach fare and drinks from breakfast through dinner, a state-of-the-art wind and weather proof umbrella bar, fire pits and more.
"You can be sure visitors will enjoy spectacular features from every vantage point," said Josh Grapski, managing partner for La Vida Hospitality Group. "It’ll be a place to slow down and be with family and friends."
The upper deck area will be constructed atop the existing concession building, providing seating for about 200 people and an unobstructed view of the ocean and the Indian River Bridge bathed in cobalt blue at nighttime. The space will maintain a beachy theme, with simple food that’s easy to take down to the water or to enjoy on the casual deck.
Adjacent to the dining building will be a tented and floored event venue which will also afford an amazing view of the ocean and the bridge. Future improvements are in the works to include a live stage at the mouth of the river as it meets the Atlantic.
The expansive project is a collaborative effort between La Vida Hospitality and Delaware State Parks to enhance the Indian River Inlet area. Delaware State Parks Director Ray Bivens said the park is, "excited to see to it unfold."
"This company shares our vision to create a new, family-friendly venue to enhance the south side of the park," Bivens said, referring to the RFP (Request For Proposal) won by La Vida Hospitality Group to revitalize the existing state park’s concession area. "Their proposal offered the ideal solution for this public-private co-op project."
The partnership will improve customer service and recreational opportunities while using a smart environmental design, she said.
Big Chill Beach Club will be the newest addition to the La Vida Hospitality Group’s portfolio which includes Rehoboth's Fork + Flask at Nage, Crooked Hammock Brewery in Lewes, and Big Chill Surf Cantina. La Vida is also behind the food and beverage service for the newly opened Lefty’s Alley and Eats family entertainment center in Lewes.
"As so many locals will tell you, our Big Chill brand embodies the true spirit of the area we live in," said Grapski. "Now we can expand that attitude to this new beach club; a place where visitors — families and locals alike — can all share in the joy of beach life."
One incredible advantage of the venue is that its location permits for ceremonies on the beach, accompanied by full bar service and an ideal cocktail party area.
"The venue could not be more ideal," said Nicole Bailey, owner of Elevee Events, which specializes in coastal wedding planning.
Custom event catering, including a variety of wedding packages, will be exclusively provided by La Vida Hospitality’s award-winning Pantry at Nage Catering, a six-time "Best Caterer of Delaware" award winner.
"Today’s couples want traditional ceremonies in unique, beach settings and no other space offers this level of memory-making surroundings," she said, also noting that she has begun booking for 2017 and 2018.
For more information and advance booking dates at the Beach Club Event Tent, contact Kathy McDonald at 202-841-3331. Event menus are also available online at bigchillbeachclub.com.
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