Ribbon Cutting Formally Opens Batuque

By Christina Georgiou

Center, Antonio, Ana, and Barbara DeMattos, owners of
Batuque, cut the ribbon, accompanied by, left, Easton
Mayor Sal Panto, and right, Phil Mitman.
Photo by Howard Lieberman

Easton's newest restaurant, Batuque, quietly opened last month, but with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and grand opening celebration the authentic Brazillian barbecue bistro held last evening, word is surely out.

A number of local notables attended the event, including Easton Mayor Sal Panto and former Mayor Phil Mitman, representing Easton Area Industrial Land Development, who helped with financing for the new eatery, along with the Lehigh Northampton Counties Revolving Loan Fund and the Greater Easton Development Partnership.

Representatives from the business community were on hand too, including from the Easton Main Street initiative and the Two Rivers Chamber of Commerce.


Ana DeMattos greets guests and makes
menu recommendations.



Once the official business of the slicing the ribbon was complete, all enjoyed wine, appetizers, and a number stayed for dinner, enjoying the restaurant's specialty, to strains of Nazareth guitarist Doug Sanders.

Batuque is owned by Antonio and Ana DeMattos, along with their daughter, Barbara DeMattos, who are the former owners of Rios in Nazareth, as well as Made in Brazil in Allentown, closed due to sharply rising rent which made the business unprofitable.

Antonio DeMattos said he's looking forward to a long, prosperous future in Easton.



Ana and Antonio DeMattos' smiling faces greet restaurant
guests at Batuque, located at 154 Northampton St. in
Downtown Easton.



With an "endless" stream of meats cooked on a Rodizio charcoal rotisserie grill served by chefs tableside, also known as "Churrasco", the new restaurant is sure to be a hit.

Batuque, located at 154 Northampton St., is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. for both lunch and dinner.

To make reservations or for more information, call the restaurant at 610-250-7171.