Here’s where you can get your Bambino’s fix during Delmar renovation
Bambino’s, the beloved family restaurant in the Phelps Grove neighborhood, will be closing temporarily to make way for expansion and renovation work. But those who frequent the location at Delmar Street will not have to go far to enjoy a plate of Bambino’s pasta during renovations.
Founder and CEO Andy Faucett, who owns Bambino’s with his mother and brother, said a temporary location for the restaurant has been found downtown. As long as all goes as planned closing on the building Tuesday, the restaurant will open its doors at 405 W. Walnut St. — former home of Bosky’s Vegan Grill and Mo’ Beef before that.
Faucett told the NewsLeader that once the building is secured, Bambino’s
plans to start operating the downtown location for take-out, limited dine-in and catering around the third week of March.
Delmar closure, work in progress
The work planned at the Delmar location includes an expansion of the kitchen, improvements to the parking lot with more spaces and the addition of a second floor for an outdoor patio and additional dining, office and storage space. In order to realize these plans, the property has going through the rezoning process at the city, with a plan scheduled to go before Springfield City Council for final approval Monday.
With construction expected to start in April, Faucett said the Delmar restaurant will likely remain closed for six months. He said there’s not decision yet will happen with the downtown spot once the original reopens.
Most of the staff from the Delmar location will be absorbed between the Battlefield restaurant and the temporary location, though Faucett told the News-Leader in November some have opted to step away for the time being.
Beyond the Delmar expansion, the restaurant could also see more recreational features added. The Faucetts also now own the vacant lot across the street from the restaurant on Delmar. For now, Faucett said the plan is to landscape the lot and leave it as a picnic and games area, if the city approves that use.
Marta Mieze covers local government at the News-Leader. Contact her with tips at mmieze@news-leader.com.