Plaza Cafe: A Village Gem Gets Makeover

When the dust soon settles — literally — in Southampton Village will re-open its doors with a new look and fresh, more casual additions to its menu and décor beginning March 18. Under the nurturing eye of chef/owner Doug Gulija, this low-profile, seafood-centered place has for 13 years boasted a high-profile reputation among both critics and food lovers. The Plaza Café’s makeover will include fresh paint with a blue/grey “beachy” theme, explained Gulija, and an emphasis towards modernity, with separate seating and bar areas where guests can enjoy simpler menu items like pulled pork and tuna sliders, Tapas selections, even sushi.

But don’t fret, old-school Plaza fans. Traditional favorites like Gulija’s swordfish “chop” served over a bed of savory broccoli rabe will still be available on the existing menu, as well as a prosciutto-wrapped jumbo shrimp appetizer that sits atop porcini risotto in white truffle oil. And don’t forget the yummy lobster shepherd’s pie. The restaurant’s wine list will also stand, still chock-full of wines from worldwide producers with a special emphasis on varietals by North Fork vintners. “, and are by far our favorites, and we love Miguel over at Palmer,” said Gulija, referring to winemaker Miguel Martin at the Aquebogue winery.

Gulija, a culinary graduate of Johnson & Wales, said his inspiration for the changes came about as a result of loss of dining volume and the country’s economic meltdown several years ago. 

“We’re known as this formal, three-star fine dining place, which is great,” he said Tuesday during a visit to the restaurant, where workers were busy putting the final touches on the Plaza’s new interior. “But I wanted the Plaza Café to be more relaxing, with an option for patrons to sit around the fireplace, order a few appetizers, a couple glasses of wine and then go see a movie.”

Conveniently, sits just a half–block south of the restaurant at the 71 Hill Street complex.

With the recent signing of a five-year renewal on his restaurant’s rental property, Gulija could say the Plaza Café has, well, a new lease on life. “I’m not going to change the way I cook,” he promised. “Our goal is simply to take some of the formality out of the dining experience.”

The re-opening of the Plaza Café will coincide with Hamptons Restaurant Week, which begins March 18 and will run through March 25. All participating restaurants will offer a three-course prix fixe menu at two price points, $19.95 and $24.95.

The Plaza Café
61 Hill Street, Southampton Village
Call for reservations
631-283-9323