A Tropical Splash

Written by Jason Gutierrez

It seems like just yesterday downtown Bakersfield was welcoming Mama Roomba to the neighborhood, but the locally-owned and -operated restaurant has actually been serving authentic Caribbean fare to hungry diners for five years.

Specializing in seafood, tapas, and a plethora of favorites too tasty to mention, it’s a cozy place you’ll want to enjoy with friends and family. And the drink menu here is expansive and exotic. While the bartenders there say the sangria is to die for, and the mojitos are out of this world, there’s a new favorite that has been creating some buzz around town: the mango bellini.

Mamma Roomba's Mango Bellini

• Champagne or sparkling wine
• Mango juice
• Sliced mango garnish (optional)

Fill a fluted glass, three quarters of the way full, with champagne. Top with mango juice. Garnish with mango slice. Enjoy!

If only this concoction from Mama Roomba could be sold in juice boxes to take home. It’s a champagne cocktail quite similar to a mimosa (concocted of orange juice and champagne), and prominently served during Sunday brunch. However, what sets this drink apart is the cuisine and atmosphere of Mama Roomba. Bartenders say the drink has grown in popularity over the past few months because it’s refreshing and very easy to enjoy.

The simple sophistication of the mango bellini allows the drink to pair with anything on the menu. If you like seafood, definitely mix this concoction with the ceviche. It also blends well with any of the empanadas, the spinach salad, or Jamaican jerk chicken.

Whether you stop in for an afternoon of tapas, a quick dinner before a night on the town, or after-work cocktails to melt the stress away, the mango bellini is the type of sipping drink that goes down smooth and keeps you satisfied. But don’t take my word for it.

Article appeared in our 28-4 Issue - October 2011