Dining news - 10/05/07

Ring the Bell for Bomberos

It's not Scottsdale, but this news is too delicious to pass up: Bomberos Cafe and Wine Bar opens Oct. 29 at Dunlap and Central in north Phoenix, serving a light menu of South American food alongside a collection of South American wines and beers.

That means rare-to-these-parts tidbits like tuna escobechado, prosciutto crudo y queso bruschetta, salami and pesto panini, assorted artisan cheeses and meats, olives, pastries and occasional authentic specialties as the Argentinean chef can produce them in the small kitchen. The alcohol will come from Argentina, Brazil, Chile and Uruguay.

Bomberos means "firemen" in Spanish, an appropriate moniker given that the building is a former Fire Department complex, restaged into contemporary space including an artsy patio with fireplace and sculptures.

Owner Oscar Mastrantuono, a native of Uruguay, grew up running a bodega with his father in New York, and in another nod to Latin American sensibilities, will offer complimentary pedicab service within a mile from the café.

Details: Bomberos Cafe & Wine bar, 8801 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, bomberoswinebar.com.