There were a lot of buzz for Plum, a small plate wine bar restaurant in Oakland opened by Coi‘s Daniel Patterson last year. I’ve heard many praise for Coi (i.e. Michelin 2 stars) but never manage to try it, mostly because it’s too expensive. On the other hand Plum’s price range is more manageable.
The restaurant has a fun neighbourhood vibe to it with long communal tables and high tables+ bar stools right in front of an open kitchen. Whoever was in charge of music that night seems to have the same ipod playlists as I do. There’re lots of interesting sounding dishes on the seasonal daily menu.
Steelhead trout with charred cucumber, granita, rye, horseradish
A great starter. There’s a lot of details in this dish and all the flavors balance each other well. You would wish you’re not sharing it with anyone! One of my favorites of the night.
Squash Blossom with creme fraiche, lemon and mint
Fried Anchovy with gribiche, espelette
Both were delicious! The fried batter was light and crispy. The lemon and mint were a nice touch. I wish the portion of the fried anchovy was bigger.
Eggplant with bulgar, seared avocado, tomato, pinenut, padron vinaigrette
Monteterey squid & Pork Belly with cannellini bean, escarole, leek, romesco
The Pork Belly was heavenly! Another highlight of the night.
Smoked farm egg with quinoa, summer squash, padron and blossom
This was really good. Lots of unexpected flavors, another of my favorites.
Roasted Beets, with apricot, smoked goat cheese and pistachio
Pate Cicioli with mustard, chervil and toast
Line caught albacore with heirloom tomato, fennel and celery
On paper it doesn’t seem that exciting but when you taste it, wow it’s so flavorful and interesting
Lemon Parfait with red fruits, raspberrry ice and rose geranium meringue
Very good!
Overall the food was outstanding. Something about the way they paired the ingredients together made the food quite exceptional. All the dishes were great with a few that really stood out. The ingredients were fresh and the execution was refine in every dish. I wish the portion is a little bigger in general (though probably good size for a party of 2).
Plum
2214 Broadway (between Franklin St & Grand Ave)
Oakland, CA 94612
Tags: small plates, Wine Bar
OH YUMS!! The food looks fantastic. How fun is it that you two sisters enjoy trying out and documenting your meal experiences together 🙂