Sipping with a View: Discovering Blu Violet
Sipping with a View: Discovering Providence's Rooftop Gem, Blu Violet
They say third time's the charm, and it definitely was when I finally met a virtual wine friend in person! Sharing a glass and good conversation is always a joy, but it's even better when the setting is as stunning as Blu Violet.
Tucked away inside the Aloft Hotel, Blu Violet is a true hidden gem boasting breathtaking panoramic views of Providence's Jewelry District, the shimmering Providence River, picturesque Water Place Park, and the iconic Point Street Bridge. It's an invitation to settle in for a night of delicious discoveries, and everyone is welcome to join the party with their ever-changing seasonal cocktail menu.
Blu Violet specializes in small bites and tapas, perfect for nibbling your way through the evening while soaking in the dazzling Providence skyline. Chef Joel Eugene takes a contemporary spin on American cuisine, drawing inspiration from his Haitian roots with flavors spanning from Haiti to Thailand and India. Prepare for a culinary adventure!
We couldn't resist diving into Blu Violet's enticing tapas menu, and let me tell you, it was a flavor explosion! Here's a peek at the delicious journey we took:
Korean Chicken Lollipops: Sticky, sweet, and spicy! These lollipops were coated in a vibrant orange gochujang sauce and sprinkled with toasted sesame seeds. The accompanying apple and cabbage kimchi added a refreshing crunch, while fresh chives provided a burst of freshness.
Fried Green Tomatoes: A Southern classic with a spicy kick! These cornmeal-crusted, buttermilk-battered tomatoes were fried to golden perfection and drizzled with a Calabrian chili + lime aioli. A final flourish of lime zest added a bright, citrusy note.
Mango Sticky Rice Eggrolls: Talk about fusion done right! These hand-rolled eggrolls were filled with a delicious mango coconut sticky rice and drizzled with a gochujang glaze. Served with fresh avocado and napa cabbage for a touch of freshness, and a cooling cilantro mint yogurt for dipping.
Charred Edamame + Tahini Whipped Hummus: A Mediterranean-meets-Asian delight! Creamy tahini-whipped hummus topped with charred edamame, Korean chili flakes, and a drizzle of sesame oil. Served with crispy pita chips for the perfect bite.
Coconut Curry Shrimp: Tropical flavors abound! These coconut flake-crusted shrimp were fried to a golden crisp and served with grilled curried pineapple wedges and a Korean chili yogurt. A truly unique and flavorful dish!
And let's not forget the cocktails! Their diverse menu offers a tempting array of handcrafted drinks, from timeless classics to innovative concoctions. I couldn't resist the "Flower Power" cocktail, a vibrant blend of Rouge Gin (infused with red berries, rhubarb, and juniper berries), Chambord, and lemon juice, all beautifully accented with a colorful floral ice cube. Talk about Instagram-worthy!
Blu Violet is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a memorable night out in Providence.
