With Cafe Bambi Dead in the Water, New ‘Elevated Gastropub’ Concept Pitched for 107 Eldridge Street
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It appears that the ever-delayed Cafe Bambi concept is on ice. Jack Abramcyk (kid brother of nightlife impresario Matt) had planned a bilevel nightspot at 107 Eldridge Street despite an outpouring of opposition. Funny, considering the unopened concept even found its way onto Grub St’s top 20 openings of 2014.
Until the end of last year, there hadn’t been much in the way of activity at 107 Eldridge. Lots of milling about the storefront. Then, one William Tisch (who may or may not be involved with Major Food Group) entered the scene with a new full liquor license application for the space. But just as quickly withdrew. This month, however, he’s back on the docket for Community Board 3 consideration.
Here’s what we can expect. The unnamed establishment will boast two stand-up bars, occupancy of 100 seats, and serve a menu of “elevated gastro pub.” Whatever that means. Planned hours of operation are 10am to 2am Sunday through Tuesday, and 10am to 4am the remainder of the week. Judging by the application and food, this could be an issue for denizens of this block.
For context, the space in question sits directly next door to Fontana’s, which will end its decade-long run in March, as reported. It’s also worth remembering that Community Board 3 vehemently denied Cafe Bambi’s application for a 4am liquor license (ground floor and basement), originally pitched as a “restaurant” giving patrons a “fine dining experience.” The crew went straight to the State Liquor Authority anyway, but without results, apparently.
So, a similar fight is likely for this place, despite all the progress being made inside. Confident, are they?
Here’s a sample menu for the unnamed pub: