After nearly 20 years, LBI's Sandbox Cafe in Ship Bottom has closed
This summer would have marked 20 years in business for Dana DiSalvio's Sandbox Cafe, a beloved breakfast and lunch spot in Ship Bottom on Long Beach Island.
But the seasonal restaurant, known for its brightly colored Key West-style outdoor patio and deep-dish pancakes, will not reopen this summer.
DiSalvio lost the lease on the space, she said.
"I'm going to miss it," said DiSalvio, who was drawn to the unique space while it operated as other restaurants through the years. When it became available, "we jumped at it," said the owner, who ran the restaurant with her husband, Vincent.
Their second Sandbox Cafe, in Surf City, will reopen for its sixtht season in February. The restaurants typically operate through summer and close in early winter.
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"We may even try full time," she said. "Things are going to roll and change here."
DiSalvio doesn't know what is planned for the Ship Bottom location, and the property's owner did not respond to a request for comment.
Sarah Griesemer joined the USA TODAY NETWORK New Jersey in 2003 and has been writing all things food since 2014. Send restaurant tips to sgriesemer@gannettnj.com.
This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: LBI's Sandbox Cafe in Ship Bottom on Long Beach Island has closed
