Violet, named after the state flower of Rhode Island, is a new restaurant by chef/owner Matt Hyland and the Pizza Loves Emily Group, in Manhattan’s East Village neighborhood (511 East 5th St). Hyland's menu focuses on grilled cuisine that pays homage to New England and Rhode Island's flavors and abundant fresh seafood. The menu highlight, grilled pizzas, are inspired by his nostalgia for Al Forno in Providence, where he and Emily often ate while attending school in Rhode Island and his desire to fill the void of grilled pizza destinations in New York City. The pies, grilled on both sides and served with scissors to cut slices, feature seasonal and innovative toppings. Small plates with a focus on New England seafood favorites, and a rotating selection of fresh, house-made pastas round out the shareable menu.