By Kelly Romo
Mt. Hood Hospice
SandBar BBQ in Sandy has quickly become a beloved fixture in the community. Just one year after opening its doors, SandBar BBQ is celebrated for its mouthwatering baby back ribs, succulent smoked meats, and an impressive array of microbrews and handcrafted cocktails. The restaurant, founded by Clint Melville, brings a unique blend of flavors and a laid-back atmosphere to this charming town.
Clint’s journey to establish SandBar BBQ in Sandy is a testament to his connection to the community. With a rich background in the culinary world, including owning Rip City Grill for seventeen years, his decision to open SandBar BBQ was driven by a personal connection and a keen sense of opportunity. He saw the potential in a building he had long admired, envisioning it as the perfect location for his next venture. When the building became available, he seized the opportunity, motivated by his top employee’s local roots and his belief that Sandy was ready for something fresh and exciting.
The name “SandBar BBQ” is a thoughtful nod to the local landscape. It references the Sandy River and the sandbar at Oxbow Park — a favorite local retreat. Clint envisioned his restaurant as a place where people could relax, unwind and enjoy a laid-back atmosphere, much like they would at a sandbar. The name encapsulates Sandy’s spirit and the easy-going vibe he wanted to create.
At SandBar BBQ, the culinary experience is nothing short of extraordinary. Their baby back ribs have garnered a loyal following. These ribs and their tri-tip steak — smoked to perfection and finished on the grill — epitomize the West Coast BBQ fusion style Clint has perfected. The meats are smoked until they develop a deep, flavorful smoke ring, then finished on the grill for a delightful char. One standout menu item is the fried cauliflower coated in a tangy sriracha BBQ sauce. It’s a must-try for anyone looking for something unique and delicious. They are constantly experimenting and finding new ways to excite their guests, and the fried cauliflower has been a surprising hit.
SandBar BBQ prides itself on sourcing ingredients locally, ensuring all its meats are from the Pacific Northwest. This commitment extends to their selection of microbrews, which features a list of over 20 taps showcasing the best local craft beers, wines and non-alcoholic options. Their handcrafted cocktails are another highlight, with the SandBar Old Fashioned being a crowd favorite. This signature drink blends Dickel Bourbon with Ancho Reyes for a smoky, peppery twist that pairs perfectly with their BBQ offerings.
The ambiance at SandBar BBQ is designed to make guests feel right at home. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming whether you’re enjoying a meal in their cozy indoor dining area or on the covered patio. Clint wanted to create a place where people could kick back and enjoy good food and drink in a comfortable setting.
SandBar BBQ keeps things exciting with nightly specials, from smoked prime rib on Fridays to pork belly burnt ends on Thursdays. Each day brings a new culinary delight not found on the regular menu. If you’re planning a barbecue, they offer a convenient large party takeout, making it easy to bring their delicious BBQ to your gathering. Check out their website at SandBarBBQ.com for your next event.
For Clint, the most rewarding aspect of running SandBar BBQ is the team he works with. He is grateful to have a crew that he likes and trusts. They’re a big part of what makes the place special. As SandBar BBQ enters its second year, exciting plans are on the horizon. A new smoker will soon be added to increase their capacity, and he has plans to heat the patio to enhance the dining experience during the cooler months.
Head on over to SandBar BBQ and experience their unique blend of BBQ, craft beers, and a welcoming atmosphere. Visit them at 39750-HWY 26 in Sandy and join in the celebration of their first successful year.