When the exclusive invitation for the launch of Bambino called for formal attire, it was already a sign from the universe that Tuesday, October 6th was going to be anything but ordinary. And darling, extra-extraordinary does not even begin to cover it.
Montreal’s most anticipated new Italian dining destination threw open its doors at 428 Rue Saint-Nicolas in Old Montreal for an exclusive invite-only media event, and the evening that followed was nothing short of a spectacular theatrical masterpiece in every possible sense.
Upon arrival, the elaborately gowned and well-suited media crowd were greeted by a bevy of the most Italian-styled beauties, sporting the most exaggerated and magnificent coiffures and proffering baskets overflowing with electric-hued lemons, tomatoes, and Bambino tomato sauce in a never-before-seen upscale mini market moment that set the most extraordinary tone for everything that followed. The creative direction by Félix Fournier of Félix de La Nuit was nothing short of visionary. To say he outdid himself would be an outlandish understatement.
An elegant cocktail reception inside the breathtakingly appointed restaurant followed, with the most mouthwatering pizzas circulating on festive platters and conversation flowing as freely and joyfully as the evening itself. And the space? Utterly, completely magnificent. Marble, burlwood, red velvet, gold, and hand-painted fresco-style ceilings come together in the most spectacular and theatrical collision of Old World Italian heritage and bold contemporary design. A sweeping 30-foot red velvet banquette sculpted in the shape of Savoiardi biscuits. 6,000 hand-placed wooden spheres honouring Chef Andrew’s nonna and her beloved pearls. A monumental concrete cherub transformed by Montreal artist Stikki Peaches. Every detail as deeply personal as it is breathtakingly beautiful.
The multi-course, family-style feast that followed was the evening’s most triumphant chapter. A wonderfully creamy Caesar salad. Authentic Parmesan pasta of extraordinary depth. Delicate grilled fish of the most refined simplicity. And a perfect tiramisu that tasted less like a restaurant dessert and more like something made with love by Nonna herself. Gifted Chef and co-owner Andrew Bambino clearly and completely nailed that foodie goal.
Co-owner and JEGantic CEO John Edward Gumbley, sartorially magnificent in a bespoke suit, delighted the entire room with an incredibly entertaining recap of the seven-year journey that led to this extraordinary evening. Seven years of changing locations, unavailable materials, structural challenges, and countless design reinventions, all culminating in what Gumbley himself calls “a beautiful nightmare” — and what the rest of the world will simply call the most beautiful restaurant in Montreal.
Because at Bambino, dinner is only the beginning. And what a beginning it was.
A huge congratulations to Chef Andrew, John, and the entire Bambino team, including the REV PR family, who brought the most magical launch to life on what would have been just another ordinary Tuesday.
Bambino is located at 428 Rue Saint-Nicolas, Old Montreal. Open Tuesday through Saturday, with Sundays reserved for famiglia. Follow @bambino_mtl on Instagram.
Photo ANTHONY FERLA @anthonyferlaphoto and @bambino_mtl
