Bambusa is a casual, laid back restaurant that happens to dish up fantastic food that won't set your charge card on fire. "This one is more fun," said Biondi, about his newest restaurant.
Where did the name come from? "It means 'bamboo'," he said. "We wanted to name it something indigenous to the area."
Biondi and Soutner want Neapolitans to consider Bambusa their neighborhood restaurant. "We want them to feel like it is an extension of their living room," said Biondi.
"You feel relaxed when you walk in here," said regular customer Gerard McBride.
With a daily happy hour from 3 to 7:30 p.m., and promotions throughout the week, Bambusa's Bam Bam Bar already has a following. Karaoke Mondays and Retro Disco Sundays (specials on Long Island and South Beach Iced Teas), for example, offer a little something different.
Open for lunch and dinner, the menu is eclectic and satisfying. "The meat balls are a big hit," said Soutner. The burgers are organic, antibiotic and hormone free.
"If you're going to eat meat you might as well eat the best," added Biondi. Burger choices include the 'Havana' (topped with Virginia ham, swiss, pickles and mustard), and the 'Floridian' (topped with grilled shrimp, pepper jack cheese and garlic aioli).
Maryland lump crab cakes, littleneck clams, grilled pork loin topped with a roasted red pepper cream sauce, and baby back ribs join in the happy cacophony of choices on the menu. Catering is available. With boat access from the Gordon River, the smoke-free bar and grill offers up a steady stream of music videos and friendly smiles.
Bambusa Bar & Grill is located at 600 Goodlette-Frank Road North. For more information visit www.bambusaonline.com or call 649-5657.