121-Year-Old Carroll Gardens Institution Revived Under New Ownership

Bar Ferdinando to open in April at the former site of Ferdinando's Focacceria

Mar. 3, 2026 at 2:53pm

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A new Italian bar and cafe called Bar Ferdinando is set to open on April 15 in the former location of the 121-year-old Ferdinando's Focacceria in the Carroll Gardens neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York. The new establishment is the fourth business venture of local restaurateur Sal Lamboglia, who was hand-picked by the previous owner, Francesco 'Frank' Buffa, to take over the space after Buffa decided to shutter Ferdinando's Focacceria in February 2025.

Why it matters

The opening of Bar Ferdinando represents the preservation of a longstanding neighborhood institution in Carroll Gardens, as Lamboglia aims to build upon the legacy of Ferdinando's Focacceria while modernizing the space and offerings. This transition highlights the challenges and opportunities facing small, family-owned businesses in rapidly gentrifying areas of New York City.

The details

Bar Ferdinando's menu will feature a mix of classic Ferdinando's dishes like Sicilian rice balls and octopus salad, as well as new additions like eggplant caponata and insalata di mare. The beverage program will focus on aperitivi, amaro-based cocktails, martinis, and vermouths, along with a take on the iconic Brooklyn-based espresso soda, the Manhattan Special. Pastry chef Jackie De La Barrera, formerly of Radio Bakery and Agi's Counter, will oversee the dessert menu of bomboloni, olive oil cakes, and Sicilian sweets.

  • Ferdinando's Focacceria closed in February 2025.
  • Bar Ferdinando is set to open on Wednesday, April 15, 2026.

The players

Sal Lamboglia

A local Brooklyn restaurateur who is opening Bar Ferdinando, his fourth business in the area.

Francesco 'Frank' Buffa

The previous owner of Ferdinando's Focacceria, who selected Lamboglia to take over the space after deciding to shutter the 121-year-old institution.

Ricardo Echeverri

The bar manager at Bar Ferdinando, who previously held the same role at Lamboglia's other establishment, Swoony's.

Jackie De La Barrera

The pastry chef at Bar Ferdinando, who previously worked at Radio Bakery and Agi's Counter.

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What they’re saying

“My goal is to preserve what makes Ferdinando's so special while giving it the care it needs to keep going for years to come.”

— Sal Lamboglia

What’s next

Bar Ferdinando is set to open its doors to the public on Wednesday, April 15, 2026.

The takeaway

The opening of Bar Ferdinando represents the delicate balance between preserving the legacy of a beloved neighborhood institution and adapting to the changing needs and tastes of the community. By honoring the history of Ferdinando's Focacceria while introducing new culinary offerings, Lamboglia aims to ensure the longevity of this Carroll Gardens landmark.