ELA’S Waterfront Dining at its Finest BY RISA WILLIAMS MCMILLAN
Picture a spot perched pleasantly over the water where the Seagulls and Osprey raise a wing in salute and where the sun bids a slow farewell every evening. The dolphins frolic by with an arch in their back and the boats, both big and small, give a wave on their way in and out of port. Add the perfect meal to the perfect view and you have found ELA’S. Combining a first class meal with a bird’s-eye view of Shelter Cove Marina, ELA’S on the Water is worthy of a special occasion and is always a memorable meal. A family owned and operated business, ELA’S has been a cornerstone in Shelter Cove since 2011. At the helm of this seamless operation is Earl Nightingale, a man who had a vision and a dream and made them come true. The restaurant is named after Earl’s three children, Erin, Lauren, and Alex who are all still actively involved in the overall success of the restaurant from daily hands-on operation and marketing to customer satisfaction. The concept behind ELA’S, according to Earl, was to create a Fresh Fish restaurant that offered a combination of superior menu, service, and quality. “When we created the concept, I wanted people to be able to enjoy their fish like some people relish a good steak – thick, meaty, panseared, fresh.” The location they chose, mid-Island and right on the water, was the icing on the cake to Earl’s vision. “When I think of a seafood restaurant, I think of fried fish and oysters. That is not us. We off clean fresh ingredients and handmade preparations to every dish. Think pan seared, grilled, heart healthy. Think Bass, Redfish, Tilefish, and Snapper. Our chef works with small local fisherman and picks the best products of the day. We run on whatever is freshest,” said Earl. Their specials may last for only two days at a time because they change with the tides. Chef Dustin Ricker is a native of New England and knows a thing or two about lobster and oysters. 12
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PHOTOS BY ROB KAUFMAN