Big Time Local Options for the Big Game

If you're interested in more than just bar fare for the big game this Sunday, Bellmore has a few interesting options.

The Super Bowl is kicking off early at The Bayou, one of the community's most popular and well known eateries, located at 2823 Jerusalem Ave. in North Bellmore.

Famous for it's authentic Louisiana style cooking and atmosphere, The Bayou is hosting a special New Orleans Saints Happy Hour this Friday night from 5 to 7 p.m. with $5 Hurricanes, Cyclones and Margaritas as well as free Cajun snacks at the bar.

The restaurant will actually be closed for the Big Game itself, but customers can place catering orders to be picked up by Saturday.

Manager Katie Accaro said, "...not all items might be available as some we need time to order special ingredients. But if customers call the restaurant (785-9263) after 3 p.m., a manager will be happy to help them with suggestions." 

Some highlights from the Bayou menu that are game perfect include their traditional Gumbo, Southern Grillades (thinly sliced seasoned steak), Jalapeno Shrimp (with jalapeno, lime and cilantro), Bayou Popcorn Shrimp and Ragin' Cajun Calamari. 

Since 1986, owner Lisa Livermore has kept true to the charm and atmosphere of this intimate restaurant, which serves up Cajun creole cuisine. Executive Chef Cara Thompson cooks a wide variety of traditional fare from the mild Molly's Panfried Catfish and Chicken and Crawfish Etouffee to the smoking hot yet flavorful Steak Diablo and Marie Laveau's Voodoo Tuna.

On Super Bowl Sunday, and every day, the entire Bayou staff has but one caveat for all of its customers - old and new alike, "Laissez Les Temps Rouler!" (Let The Good Times Roll!)

Another excellent local option for Super Bowl dine in or takeout is Viva Loco, located at 2381 Merrick Rd. in Bellmore.

On Super Bowl Sunday this eclectic Mexican/Italian fusion stronghold will be featuring it's regular dinner menu all night. Four televisions around the bar will all be showing the game, with free food and treats at halftime. Drink specials for the night at the bar will include: $5 Mixed Svedka Drinks, $3 Red Stag Shots and $5 Sauza Blanco Margaritas for the duration of the game. 

Viva Loco is also heavy on takeout for the gig game. Orders do need to be placed in advance.

However, according to manager Tom Scherer, "depending on the item; orders can be done as late as the night before, and based on availability, even the day of the game. We also offer regular take out off our entire menu at anytime as well."

Highlights from Viva Loco's catering menu include: Rigatoni Broccoli Rabe and Sausage, Veggie and Meat Lasagnas (Deep Dish) , Meatball Parmigiana, Chicken Scarpiello, Chicken Francais, Ceasar Salad and Pescatore Salad. 

From the Tex-Mex side of their kitchen highlights include: Beef or chicken enchiladas and football staples such as Buffalo wings and Jalapeno Poppers.

Call Viva Loco at 679-5900 for pricing and more details.