Spotlight On: From the Boot

Ambler Patch: When did you open your business?

From the Boot: Our flagship location in Lafayette Hill has been open since 1999. The summer of 2009 saw our Ambler location opening its doors. This spring we opened in the Whitpain Shopping Center in Blue Bell and are currently working on an expansion.

AP: Who is your ideal client or customer?

FTB: We like to think that we have something for everyone. With well over 100 menu items we feel that anyone could be our ideal guest. We are a great place for an early dinner with the kids, a date night with that special someone or just having a drink and unwinding after work. We are also a popular destination for folks heading to the Ambler Theatre and Act II Playhouse because of their close proximity. If you are hungry, you are ideal.

AP: What makes your business unique from others in your field?

FTB: We have always tried to listen to our clientele. Almost all of the changes we have made have been based on feedback from the guest whom we serve. We believe guests should always feel well taken care of and we are constantly evolving to better serve their needs. There is no pretense or belief that we "know it all". Every day is a new experience to learn how to better serve the Ambler community.

AP: What made you decide to open a business?

FTB: From The Boot is truly a family restaurant. Brother Nick and Marc Ciaffone had a passion for food and had always wanted to wok together in a successful establishment. Nick's best friend (and Ambler resident) Bob Devine joined the partnership after a successful stint in the New York restaurant scene. This close knit group had always wanted to work side by side and From The Boot made it a possibility. 

AP: What’s your most popular item?

FTB: Our Bruschetta is our most popular dish. It is a blend of Plum Tomato, Red Onion, Garlic, Olive Oil, Pecorino Romano & Basil served with Italian toast. We often have to remind guests not to fill up on Bruschetta or they won't be able to eat their meal.

AP: What make’s your community special?

FTB: Ambler is thriving right now. There are so many options for arts, shopping & dining. With the warm weather upon us we are seeing more people coming to Ambler without a specific course of action. They spend hours strolling the streets and taking in everything this community has to offer. We have added al fresco dining because so many guests want to take in the Ambler experience. From The Boot is a part of a very special locale that is unlike any other in the area, and for that we are truly blessed.

AP: Where can customers find your specials?

FTB: Specials rotate on a daily basis. Guests are always encouraged to call if they are interested in the specials for the evening since they change so frequently. Our Facebook page is also great place to learn about dinner specials as well as exciting new products behind the bar.

AP: What are your chef’s specialties?

FTB: We have 2 items designated as Signature Dishes on our menu. The first is our Filet Mignon. It is a 10 oz cut butchered in house and served in a red wine reduction with red onions, portobello mushroom & roast potato. The second is a 12 oz Veal Chop in our tomato gravy w/provolone cheese and homemade gnocchi. Both are exceptional representations of Chef Ciaffone's passion for food.

From the Boot in Ambler opens everyday at noon. To learn more about them or find their specials, visit their website, Facebook page, or on Twitter.