Upper Cape Codder, MA - Apr 26, 2006
Changes on the Horizons
By Silene Gordon/
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The landmark eating and drinking establishment on Cape Cod Bay known to several generations of visitors as Horizons will soon be under new management, now that its all-season liquor license transfer has been approved by the town.
"We’re very close," said new owner Tracy LaBonte, who, along with her husband Eric, will own the property and the business. "Now that the menu is finalized, that was the last big hurdle."
Although the property is a well-known destination for food, drink and stunning views, the site has been home to casual dining and entertainment rather than upscale dining.
"It’s been known as a beach destination, a beer joint," said selectman Doug Dexter. "Maybe someplace where you can get some food. But it never lived up to what it could be."
Eric LaBonte said he and his wife intend to change that, emphasizing that moving forward fine dining will be the standard.
"We want people to know us for the food first and foremost," he said. "We’ve been able to talk with neighbors and friends locally about the menu. There’s been a lack of consistency. They hired new chefs, new staff every year. I plan to raise the quality of the food above and beyond putting together a fancy menu."
In addition to creating a fine dining experience, the LaBontes have plans to make use of the square footage on the lower level for functions and events. Tracy Labonte said that 40 events already are on the books for the coming season. "We’re getting four or five calls a day from people wanting to book the space," she said.
"The downstairs always just sat there," she added. "That room is undergoing an image renovation," including the installation of 15 columns throughout the room. "It’s really going to shout of classy Cape Cod."
The LaBontes are set to complete the transaction that would give them ownership of the property on Town Neck Road. While Eric will be responsible for the culinary changes and their execution as head chef, Tracy will manage the business and provide event planning expertise.
Described by their attorney Jonathan Fitch as a "couple of 30-somethings who have been tested in the employment of others," they will close the deal as soon as the license transfer is approved.
"They are Sandwich residents, they are risk-takers, and they are ready," added Fitch. The Labontes, who met in Harwich, lived in Cambridge and California before settling in Sandwich two years ago.
While selectmen unanimously approved the liquor license transfer, the board is expected to vote on whether or not to provide an entertainment license for the premises at tonight’s meeting. The LaBontes anticipate having music "piped in" to the dining areas or having an acoustic musician or quartet for functions.
"Entertainment isn’t our emphasis by any means. We know this is a residential neighborhood," said Tracy LaBonte. "We know our neighbors."