The Yellow Plum, Bloomfield

Chef Lukic can't credit any one person with inspiring his cooking. The French Culinary Institute graduate honed his professional skills in kitchens throughout Manhattan, working alongside world-renowned chefs such as Wolfgang Puck, Rocco DiSpirito, and Marcus Samuelsson. Drawing a little bit of inspiration from each of these fine-dining experiences, Chef Lukic showcases his own culinary voice at The Yellow Plum. His seasonal menus feature regionally inspired American dishes with eclectic Latin, Mediterranean, and Asian influences. Short rib and avocado quesadillas, shrimp and grits with cilantro and sriracha, and an otherwise familiar burger served with boursin cheese and ancho-spiced fries represent a handful of the surprising flavor combinations that may be found on The Yellow Plum menu.

The restaurant's dining room similarly fuses traditional and contemporary elements. Exposed brickwork and cream-colored walls complement the warm earth tones of the space's simple wooden tables and moss-green banquette. At the same time, custom pieces of modern artwork add vibrant splashes of color. Lemon-yellow sun umbrellas rise above tables in the outdoor seating area, providing cozy bits of shade where diners can enjoy a meal or take a break from the constant work of photosynthesizing their own nutrients.