Bazzini at 28 Oak Street's makeover from Fox's "Kitchen Nightmares" television show is complete, or nearly so.
Outside, the restaurant now sports a silver and black sign that proclaims BAZZINI. The two large windows are emblazoned with large B's (although the one on the left still has a large crack in the bottom), which stand out when large, white shades are drawn.
While the exterior was spruced up with leafy trees and an arbor for last nights grand reopening, as Fox likes to call it, those elements were removed this morning, leaving a pair of smaller plants by the doorway.
Inside, the layout remains the same, with a sunken main dining room and low ceilings. You can't tell from this photo but the color scheme is much lighter and brighter, with light-colored walls (no more Pocono-esque mirrors) and tan banquettes (presumably reupholstered). It's a far more cheerful looking place than chef-owner Paul Bazzini inherited five years ago.
Today is the crew's last day, said a source close to the restaurant. Cameras and temporary lighting were still installed this morning.
The Ridgewood News photographed the grand reopening, which included the mayor, a few professional athletes and other dignitaries. In a caption, photographer Chris Peters noted that Bazzini and his wife, Leslie Martin-Bazzini, said that after all they'd been through with the filming and redesigning of the new restaurant, "they had not filed for divorce." The stress of a failing restaurant can have on a marriage is a favorite theme of "Kitchen Nightmares" producers.
Now just can't wait to hear about the food!
Posted by: Matt | May 14, 2009 at 02:42 PM
Apparently Ramsey and Bazzini didn't approach the Ridgewood Historical (aka Hysterical) Society for approval as it didn't take three-four months for the makeover to happen. I would have loved to see video of Ramsey waiting over two hours at one of the RHS's monthly meetings to state his case.
Posted by: CGWestwood | May 15, 2009 at 04:16 PM
Ramsay must have been doing double duty while in NJ. I read on another blog that he was revamping Flamangos (near Flemington) May 9-17.
Posted by: Pete | May 20, 2009 at 07:21 PM
I worked for Paul when he first opened. I was a server for the former-chef owner and Paul was nice enough to keep most of the staff. He was an incredibly talented chef and just such a great human being! I hope this helps him and his family!
Posted by: Kate | Jul 06, 2009 at 03:00 AM
My husband and I dined there last night and it was excellent! Attractive and serene setting and delicious food! Get the risotto!!
Posted by: Sara | Jul 12, 2009 at 01:29 PM