Bites of Bethel - Better in Bethel Restaurant (B.I.B)

If you haven’t yet had the opportunity, grab your bib and head down to B.I.B. Restaurant to indulge your senses. Located in the Old Opera House at the corner of Greenwood Avenue and Depot Place, owner Elmond Blakaj is here to show you that things really are Better in Bethel. Serving an inspired array of New American cuisine, B.I.B. is Mr. Blakaj’s love letter to the town of Bethel—written seven days a week.

“What makes B.I.B. truly special is our uncompromising focus on quality, freshness, and how food makes people feel,” says Adela Gjonikaj the bar manager at B.I.B. “We work with premium Kobe beef, organic free-range chicken, fresh oysters, and thoughtfully sourced ingredients. We also offer a wide range of gluten-free options so everyone can enjoy our menu. Every dish is designed to be visually stunning and deeply comforting—refined enough for a night out, yet familiar enough to feel like home.” Adela has also crafted a mouth-watering cocktail menu, featuring crowd favorites like the Better Martini.

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Beyond the food and libations, B.I.B. takes pride in the full guest experience. Since opening last March, diners have witnessed a stunning transformation of the space through opulent, seasonal décor. Summer evenings were spent on the patio accompanied by live music. Fall brought turning foliage, followed by a winter wonderland indoors—each season offering its own prime photo opportunities. One can’t help but notice that even the restrooms are thoughtfully designed.

While B.I.B. is undeniably beautiful, it’s what’s on the inside that truly counts. The restaurant is deeply committed to giving back to the Bethel community, supporting holiday food drives, providing free meals for local families in need, donating gift cards, and partnering with local schools and charities. “The incredible support from our guests allows us to continue paying that generosity forward,” the team shares.

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With an entire career in the food industry behind him, including work in several cities, Mr. Blakaj also operates Barnwood Grill in both Newtown and Yorktown Heights. Ultimately, Bethel is where he chose to settle his family and raise his children. Their love for the town was often summed up by a familiar refrain: “Dad, it’s just better in Bethel.”And so, B.I.B. found its name.

Looking ahead, B.I.B. plans to continue dazzling and delighting Bethel with seasonal menus, special events, and creative dining experiences. Whether gathering for a celebration, private event, date night, family dinner, or anything in between, B.I.B. is there to welcome you. “Most of all, we are grateful for the ongoing support of our guests and the town of Bethel, whose loyalty and love have helped make B.I.B. what it is today.”

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