Beatstro: Hip-Hop Restaurant in The Bronx
"Manhattan keeps on making it, Brooklyn keeps on taking it...Bronx keeps creating it, and Queens keeps on faking it".
Bronx is the home of Hip-Hop and Boogie Down Productions reminded us of that in the famous dis track "The Bridge is Over". Beatstro is the newest restaurant/lounge in South Bronx that is paying homage to the birth of Hip-Hop and keeping very it BX from the artwork, the menu which is inspired by the community, and even the source of the furnishings. Owner and Bronx native, Alfredo Angueria, wanted to create something that older residents would appreciate and the newcomers could enjoy as well.
The entrance of Beatstro has the appearance of a record store with bright hues of green, records that have been donated by local DJs, turntables, and boomboxes. The walls are covered with posters of Jimmy Hendrix, Wu-Tang, Bob Marley, and other prominent musical figures. What lies behind the black curtain is even more impressive such as reds sofas, beautiful full bar, and an elevated seating area with 100 gold globe speakers set into the wall. The menu is a fusion of two cultures that include African-American and Puerto Rican and include items such as Mojo Chicken, Shrimp & Grits, Spicy Shrimp Tostada, and Jambalaya. I didn't get a chance to eat while visiting (sad face), but you can bet I will be back to do so very soon to do so.
Beatstro drink menu has clever names such Method-Man-Hattan, The Ruler, Blueprint, Blackouts, Red Top, and of course Gin & Juice. Each drink I tried (and trust I had several) was carefully crafted, smooth, and well priced. Hands down Anotherone was my favorite cocktail and included Wray & Nephew, pineapple, and bitters, and lime. I would have to say close second was Gin & Juice which was made with mango, lime, and mint.
Beatstro is open now but is holding their grand opening on July 12th which I am sure will be a star studded event and they have music by DJ Ted Smooth or better known as the Remix King! I have more than enough photos for your view pleasure below.
ENTRANCE
ANDANOTHERONE AND VIRGO
METHOD MAN-HATTAN
GIN & JUICE