Bistro-by-the-Sea, on the crystal coast of North Carolina is a comfortable and attractive haven of good food and drink owned and operated by the husband and wife team of Tim Coyne and Libby Eaton. Both Tim and Libby take pride in the fact that Tim 'cooks on the line' and Libby greets guests every night they are open.

The extensive menu focuses on dishes such as crab bisque, oysters topped with crab meat, bistro style shrimps and grits, grilled tuna and scallops, and fresh meats that could include blackened teriyaki glazed beef tenderloin, sautéed calves' liver and almond encrusted chicken breast in a hazelnut cream sauce.

The desserts change daily and are all homemade; a sensible list of wine and martinis presents interesting options to diners.

A separate private banquet facility is available with a set menu for up to 100 guests. Live entertainment brings light, colour and sound to the piano bar every Friday and Saturday night.