In one's life, they will encounter a certain number of sandwiches that are truly life changing. Sometimes it's the magic combo of high quality ingredients. After all, a smuckers pb&j doesn't have the same effect as an artisanal hand pounded nut spread with homemade jam. Sometimes it's because of the locale--a caprese on a baguette in Italy for example, might include the same ingredients but be as memorable as the one at the corner cafe. And it's understandable to think that perhaps Black Sands Bistro may have the benefit of the breathtaking view. And yes, their offerings are humble. But my. Goodness. This place is amazing. The life changing sandwich in question was the breakfast sandwich special: fresh, home made foccacia. Marinated, grilled veggies. Thick sliced quality ham. Covered in perfectly melted cheese. It was incredible. I had a meatball sandwich the next day, and while it was pretty damn good I will be thinking about the Alice in Wonderland special for a good long time. As a horde of comedians descended onto the town, full of last nights beer and quippy one liners, the kitchen didn't blink an eye as they fried up plate after plate of hearty, breakfast sandwich perfection. The owners were so welcoming to all of us. They make all the baked goods in house, including that delicious foccacia. And THAT VIEW. Where else can you enjoy a good meal with a view to match? Pair with a cold beer or a hot coffee and this is the perfect quiet ritual to begin your days in Shelter Cove. I will absolutely be back, again and again, whenever I am lucky enough to return to this beautiful part of the world. read more

Black Sands Bistro - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Whitethorn, California

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I frequently visit another California coastal town ,(touristy) that I have tried several restaurants and been disappointed with - I gave up trying to find good food in that OTHER town. This was my first time to Shelter Cove, and Black Sands Bistro was my first place to try food at. I wasn't expecting much. But I must say, we were very pleasantly surprised! I got a cheeseburger for $17 and being that it was a tourist town, expected a small, generic McDonald's type hamburger. But it was good sized, not preformed patties, with 3 slices of tomato and generous helping of lettuce and it was juicy and very good. They gave a nice selection of baked desserts (all $5) and they are large servings and not the generic baked items you find in every other aery in California. We got the German Chocolate Cake and it was quite good. I got coffee, too and it was better than average. While not cheap, it did seem to be one of the less expensive options. The staff are very friendly and welcoming. If we go back to Shelter Cove, this will be the place we always go to. read more

Black Sands Bistro - Large, not generic,bakery goods. Very - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Whitethorn, California

Such a cool little spot with the best view of Black sands beach and tables out on the deck! Friendly people with homemade breakfast and Lunch! Great quiche in a croissant crust, Coffee and a baked good case! Hidden gem! read more

Wow! Wonderful food and view. We ate their quiche and a meatball sandwich while watching the waves crash on the rocks. I was able to navigate a wide bite of meatball while whale watching. read more

Had two paninis and potato salad. All very good. Favorite was the turkey and green chili. Also a cappuccino and German chocolate cake. Nice strong smooth coffee and very fresh cake. Sat on the patio enjoyed a great view. Staff was very friendly read more

A good breakfast in a hole-in-the-wall restaurant. Located on a corner of the Inn of the Lost Coast, upon opening the door, you might think you had the wrong place. The entryway is a hall that goes past a miniature kitchen (barely big enough to be called a kitchen). The enclosed porch has two tables. the exterior deck room for three or four, and across from the cooking area and cash register is another table tucked in the corner. With very little there, they make quite a serviceable breakfast, and at times, they are the only choice in Shelter Cove, so they are well worth considering. They are very small, so if there's a crowd, it could be a while before they can get to you. I really enjoyed my breakfast, and the people were very nice (both customers and staff). Be sure to look on the corner of the building, or you might miss it altogether. read more

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This place is a local gem! Very friendly cook and girl taking our order/barista. Beautiful ocean view. I had the Alice in Wonderland--next level breakfast sandwich on homemade focaccia! I took desert home for after dinner. Cherry brownie is AMAZING! German chocolate cake--homemade! Delicious cappuccino! A+++ read more

Amazing breakfast with a view!! Loved every bit. The food was fresh and the best part it was peaceful. What a location!! Highly recommend read more

Black Sands Bistro - Eggs benedict , Veggie scrambled eggs , Coffee - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Whitethorn, California

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DELICIOUS EVERY TIME!!! The food, service, pastries and ocean view are fantastic! Best breakfast and lunch in Shelter Cove!! Highly recommend this wonderful restaurant! read more

This little bistro is so yummy. They have a great menu and everything we got was delicious. They also have homemade pastries that were also yummy. The two ladies working were absolutely delightful. One of the ladies pointed out some cool features along the rocky coastline that their patio overlooks. If you are in shelter cove do not miss the chance to dine at this cute bistro!! read more

Hands down one of the best breakfast & lunch restaurants in Shelter Cove! They have amazing homemade cakes and pastries as well. The homemade organic pork sausage is made with several fresh herbs and spices. The organic beef cheeseburger is the best burger in Humboldt County. I highly recommend The Black Sands Bistro when visiting "The Cove." read more

I was so impressed with this cafe. We came in pretty late (they were getting ready to close), so I expected to get a coffee to go and not much more. Well let me tell you.... The owners here were so gracious and kind. Not only did they stay to make us some food, I really wanted a breakfast item and they didn't blink an eye! Made me a special request and had friendly conversation while we waited. It was a beautiful day and their patio has spectacular views! Pure bliss. Really appreciated their service and hospitality here. Top notch delicious food was the cherry on top! read more

The breakfast burrito, the everything bagel with cream cheese, the German chocolate cake, and the carrot cake are all delicious! But the best part of this place is the wonderful welcome! We were greeted with a warm smile and the kindest hello! My daughter and I stopped in this morning, and we loved everything about it! We got the desserts to go, and as soon as we returned to our rooms, we tried a bite. Wow, Mary Jo, so delicious! So far, this has been our favorite meal! read more

The owners/staff were wonderful, friendly and funny. Food and coffee was great with a lot of options for such a small place, I went back to get a slice of the raspberry bread for dessert. The location and vibes were impeccable. I couldn't have asked for a better reprieve after hiking the Lost Coast Trail. read more

Great service, exceptionally friendly. Delicious food, coffee, & tea. Beautiful view. House made English muffins were top tier! Guaranteed to return to this spot! read more

Great food! All homemade, Staff very nice and friendly. Great view! Definitely worth a visit

Love this place! Great food. Was there for brunch. The Breakfast Sandwich was amazing. Killer views over the ocean, and a truly local establishment. Great friendly service and dog friendly too. I saw them bringing in freshly caught fish and some spare ribs for later in the evening. They have an outdoor kitchen, and all their stuff is locally made. Wish I could stay for dinner, but maybe next time! read more

Great food, homemade desserts and baked items. Cheeseburger on a house made bun is the best. Lasagne is amazing with a very tasty meaty marinara. Nice people too! Of course, you can't beat the view. read more

Above and beyond service in a beautiful location. I got a breakfast sandwich and the English muffin was home made! All of their baked goods are made in-house. Solid sized portions, hot, fresh and fast. Highly recommend. read more

Delicious food and friendly service! Ocean cliff views in the outdoor seating! Trust me, try the french toast. It's incredible! read more

Incredible oceanside spot -- unbeatable views. They made a delicious oat milk decaf latte, and an amazing biscuit sandwich. They also had almond milk for my friend. The food is very homey and delicious. The new owners are also so kind. 10/10 read more

The sweetest people who own this place. They are super dog friendly and we visited them twice already. They are some of the kindest humans around. Treated our dog like a queen. Cakes were yummy. Coffee was so good. Loved looking out at the ocean while drinking my coffee. Can't wait to go back again. read more

Delicious treats, friendly staff, yummy looking breakfast food and a person ready to make espresso as soon as I walked in!

Lovely owners making delicious fresh food! I recommend the Richardo panini for a vegetarian option otherwise get the French dip!