![](https://westseattleblog.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/bambu.jpg)
(Remodeling under way inside Bamboo, which provided the photo)
After a rocky summer, Alki’s Bamboo Bar and Grill is closed most of this week, to reopen Friday, and is announcing new, local ownership. Two months ago, after a shooting outside, its management – then-ownership wasn’t present – called a community meeting to answer questions and make promises (WSB coverage here). Today, they’ve sent a news release saying they’re keeping the promises they made.
From the news release:
According to the new owner Plamen Stoyanov, over the last year or so the Bamboo had “lost its way.” The #1
priority, according to Plamen, is to bring back the magic of the Bamboo. “It will take work, but we are dedicated to bring fun back to the beach. I am removing many things that brought in the wrong clientele and bring back the things that attract the smart, professional customers who are looking to have a fun time.”Safety and quality are the focus points of Bamboo’s new owner. How does he plan on doing that? “By increasing security headcount and changing the Bamboo’s overall entertainment.” … It is not only about changing the look and feel of the Bamboo, the food and drink is being revamped as well. New drink and food menus are already done. “In the past the Bamboo was known for its unique delicious, consistent food. I want to bring that back,” says John Theofelis, head chef and General Manager of the Bamboo. Switching some food vendors and focusing on local quality ingredients was the first step in this process. “We have trained and re-trained our support staff so that every customer gets the service they expect and deserve.”
Plamen is no stranger to the restaurant business. Having been the industry for over 18 years, he has seen what has worked and what hasn’t. “It is all about your customers, if you can win their hearts, they will be loyal. I enjoy winning hearts. It is important to be seen by your customers, they must know that you appreciate their business.”
Giving back to the community is important. The new owner already has a number of charitable events lined up, leveraging the Bamboo to increase charitable donations to a number of local charities.
Living literally 3 minutes from the Bamboo (via car), Plamen is a local West Seattleite and has lived here for over 8 years. A professional bike rider, Plamen rode for American and Italian bike racing teams and enjoys riding on the beach and around West Seattle.
The news release also says Bamboo will have a “grand reopening” this Friday (October 26) with an event billed as “Halloween on the Beach and Costume Competition,” featuring a DJ, dancing, and prizes.
(SIDE NOTE: The man charged in the August shooting, Michael Helmer, remains in jail, with his next court hearing set for early November.)
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