Looking for a small-plates supper? There's a new spot in town to get your fix. The new addition to the South End, called Bardo, is located at 1508 S. Mint St.
Bardo's chef, Michael Nolls, boasts an impressive resume, having worked at Chicago restaurants Moto, Butter, and Schwa. Running the bar is Amanda Britton, formerly of 204 North in Uptown and recently named Mixologist of the Year by the North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association.
Nolls' current spring/summer menu includes dishes like beef tartare with egg yolk jam, mushroom, radishes and togarashi, or lamb belly with carrot, mustard, cocoa nibs and rhubarb. For something sweet, check out the carrot cake, made with ginger, cream cheese and opal basil.
Britton's cocktails include the South Mint, composed of gin, lemongrass, lemon, sparkling wine and mint, and the Putting Down Roots, with rum, mezcal, yellow beets, carrots, ginger, dill and lime. Bardo also offers an extensive list of wines, sake, beer and more.
With a five-star rating out of three reviews on Yelp, Bardo has already gathered fans.
Randolph J., who was the first Yelper to review the new spot on May 25, said, "Arrived and was immediately welcomed into a warm and inviting space. The impeccable decor and eye for detail is apparent at every corner. We were greeted with great warmth by the owners, and Chef Michael took great care and concern over my allergies. Their menu is a true culinary artisan experience! Every bite is a new experience, a new flavor, a new journey. The finest ingredients and worth every penny!"
Ken L. added, "Excellent food. The oyster was fresh and delightful. The yuzu sauce doesn't overtake the freshness of the oysters and the oysters were fresh and yummy. The Spanish octopus is crunchy on the outside while the inside is soft and tender. The steak is cooked perfectly. The lamb belly has layers of flavor bursting out on and after your first bite. It's a must order item. I usually don't rate five stars for a restaurant unless it shows passion, great service and good food. This one has all of the above."
Swing on by to take a peek for yourself: Bardo is open from 5 a.m. - 10 p.m. from Tuesday-Thursday and 5 a.m. - 1 p.m. from Friday-Sunday. (It's closed on Monday.)
