By: Nick Gambino
The pandemic forced many of the singles looking to mingle (yes, I regret it, but my backspace is broken) to partake in virtual dates to mitigate risk. Now that vaccinations are in full swing and things have begun to open back up, we’re seeing more and more in-person dates.
The women-first dating app, Bumble, is looking to move things off the app and back into the real world of in-person dating with their newest venture, Bumble Brew.
“Eat, sip, and connect at Bumble Brew – and all-day café and wine bar,” the website reads. “Get to know them over delicious food and wine.”
The restaurant is a partnership with Pasquale Jones of the Delicious Hospitality Group (DHG) and is located in the Nolita neighborhood of Manhattan. They’ll start with breakfast on July 24th with lunch and dinner making an appearance in the coming weeks.
“We’re thrilled to join forces with Bumble and open a new space in our community, especially after this challenging year,” CEO and Executive Chef of DHG, Ryan Hardy, said. “We’ve always designed our restaurants so that people can connect over delicious food and drinks in a fun and energetic environment, so our mission aligned perfectly with Bumble.”
The restaurant features an 80-seat dining space as well as a bar and patio. The Nolita spot will also sport light musical fare with a particular focus on female artists and signature yellow colors associated with the Bumble app. Though, it doesn’t look like the app itself is connected with the eatery.
For now, it’s a standalone with no ability to make reservations in the app. I can see that changing in the future with the option to take a relationship to the next level and reserve a table for two so users can meet in person without having to leave the app when making plans.
Patrons will also be able to reserve space for private events and more private dining. Pickup and delivery options are available as well. The menu is mainly inspired by Italian cuisine, which makes sense with partner Pasquale Jones right next door.
This idea emerges from the Bumble Hive project that sprung up back in 2017. Those little pop-ups were Bumble’s bright idea on how to create safe spaces for users to connect off the app, essentially leaning into the community aspect of it.
You can visit Bumble Brew at 98 Kenmare St in New York starting July 24.
