Local Resort And Restaurant Receive Four Diamond Designation

The American Automobile Association has recognized the outstanding quality and service of The Sanderling Resort and Spa by presenting it with AAA's venerated Four Diamond award. It is the only Four Diamond resort in the Outer Banks.

The Sanderling's signature restaurant, The Left Bank, received the Four Diamond award for the eighth consecutive year. It also has the distinction of being the only Four Diamond restaurant in the Outer Banks.

In receiving the award, The Sanderling Resort and Spa joins an elite group of lodging and dining facilities. Less than 4 percent of hotels and restaurants attain the prestigious rating. Only 34 accommodations and 14 dining facilities throughout North Carolina have received the Four Diamond designation.

"AAA's requirements for a Four Diamond rating are rigorous, and those that win it are among the best hotels and restaurants in the world," said Dave Parsons, president and chief executive officer of AAA Carolinas, an affiliate of AAA. "Only 3.5 percent of the more than 58,000 annual inspections conducted nationally result in a Four Diamond rating."

Achieving the Four Diamond rating means The Sanderling Resort and Spa provides upscale amenities. Its array of services includes a tennis court and fitness club, fine dining, and a luxurious spa and salon. In addition to offering a refined and elegant atmosphere, the Four Diamond rating means guests are treated to a high level of hospitality and attention to detail.

This is the first year The Sanderling Resort and Spa received the Four Diamond designation. To be considered for the award, a resort has to meet 27 quality requirements based on comfort, cleanliness and safety. Once these requirements are met, a trained AAA evaluator conducts an unannounced overnight stay.

Lodgings are considered in one of four classifications — bed and breakfast, cottage, hotel and country inn — with four sub-classifications: resort, historic, casino and classic.

The Left Bank has a long-standing tradition of providing a fine dining experience to its guests. Serving contemporary American cuisine, The Left Bank reflects the Four Diamond criteria of quality menus presented with a high degree of complexity and creativity using fresh ingredients. A wine steward adds to the sophisticated ambience.

When reviewing a restaurant, the evaluator dines anonymously. In addition to basic requirements of cleanliness and comfort, the facility is evaluated for the extensiveness of its menu, décor, and the personal service and attention demonstrated by the staff.

The Sanderling Resort and Spa and The Left Bank will be listed in AAA's TourBooks that are distributed free to its members nationwide.

The Diamond awards are presented annually by AAA.

For more information visit http://www.thesanderling.com/ or call 800-701-4111

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