The food, always beautifully executed, doesn’t shout for attention. It doesn’t need to. Each plate seems to be saying, “Here, taste this. Isn’t this good?”
On one of my visits, I had the Oysters Rockefeller with cream, chard, parmesan and pine nut pangritata. The oysters were perfectly golden, and the pinenut pangritata added a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor. I also ordered the local chicory Caesar salad, which came with boquerones (anchovies usually marinated in vinegar), parmesan and mini grilled cheese croutons. Finally, I ordered the pappardelle al cinghiale, which is a wild boar ragu served with house made pappardelle noodles.
On another visit, I enjoyed the North Carolina grouper khao soi, which is made of rice noodles, curry, peanuts and crispies. I usually don’t choose fish when I go out to eat, but this dish really surprised me. I also ordered the meatball appetizer, which came with three juicy meatballs and lots of sauce with parmesan on top. Paired with the focaccia, it was hearty and delicious.
Bombolo isn’t trying to impress you with polish or perfection. It wants you to lean back, sip something interesting and be in the moment.
“Charming, disorganized and always ready for a good time,” Lacy said when asked to describe Bombolo’s personality in three words.
Of course, running a real restaurant is hardly child’s play like it used to be for Flemming and Lacy.
Lacy admitted that the scope of the restaurant is the hardest part. Having such a small staff means that operations and administrative work, as well as menu preparation, fall on herself and Flemming.
“I think the experience in the food we provide and seeing people delighted with it [is what brings me joy],” Lacy said.
From the personal warmth of the staff to the curated, often playful wine list — yes, there’s a monthly mystery wine case — to desserts that balance texture and sweetness, Bombolo always delivers a full experience.
When I asked how she wanted people to feel when they left, Lacy smiled.
“I want them to feel full and elated,” she said. “You know, just sort of riding high on the good things that life has to offer.”
Mission accomplished.
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@orjarman
@dthlifestyle | lifestyle@dailytarheel.com