Bainbridge Bistro

A new chapter in local dining.
And a tasty one at that.

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By Jeff Fraga

Photos by Dinah Satterwhite

After four years as Bainbridge Tapas, owners Sonja Fredricks and Chef Osmar Lovo have reimagined their restaurant as Bainbridge Bistro, blending Spanish, Italian and Northwest flavors with a community-focused vision.

“Under Tapas, we were constrained by the name,” said Fredricks. “People expected small plates and low prices. That model wasn’t sustainable—or fair to our chef’s talent.”

Trained in French and Italian cuisine, Lovo wanted freedom to cook more broadly. “With the Bistro, we can do everything we love—still Spanish and Italian, but focused on local seafood and seasonal ingredients,” he said.

The transformation happened fast: Tapas closed on a Saturday night and by Tuesday morning, Bainbridge Bistro opened its doors after two nonstop days of rebranding. “We worked harder than ever, but it was worth it,” said Fredricks.

The new space celebrates food, art and music. Local artwork adorns the walls, craft cocktails are poured and produce comes from nearby organic and hydroponic farms. “We want guests to forget the outside world for a while—just good food, drink and calm energy,” Fredricks said.

Menu favorites include lemon chicken capellini, 12-hour braised lamb ragu and lobster risotto, alongside signature tapas, such as empanadas and crispy cauliflower. Desserts, including pistachio cheesecake and tiramisu, come from a local Italian baker.

Beyond great food, Bainbridge Bistro embraces a mission: supporting local producers, women-owned businesses and minority entrepreneurs. “If you’re in this industry, you do it for love,” said Fredricks. “That’s what people feel when they come here.”

Lovo summed it up simply: “Restaurants must evolve—you move or you die. Bainbridge Bistro is our evolution.”

>> 403 Madison Ave N , Suite 140, 206-460-4367

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