For up-to-date consumer news every day, visit
SpringfieldNewsSun.com /go/bargains
Urbana
Restaurant offers global taste trip
A pair of native Champaign County brothers and a local chef are bringing area residents a new concept in fine dining. Mark and Remko Bloemhard and Chef Yesho Chetty recently opened Fusion 40.83 at 115 Miami St., just off Urbana’s downtown square.
The name, which includes the GPS coordinates for Urbana, came about after the trio decided on the menu concept — one that will take guests on a trip to a new country each month.
“Fusion represents the cultures we all bring together — Indian, Dutch and American — and the international flair we want to have here,” Mark Bloemhard said.
Chetty created the menu, which will feature a core of Americana Bistro-style food, then starting in July there will be a monthly special menu that will revolve around one country or culture.
“What we want to do is be able to have the flexibility to offer unique menu options in addition to our strong standards,” said Remko Bloemhard. “I’m not aware of any other restaurant that offers a rolling menu that will take you around the world.”
Remko Blemhard and Chetty worked together when Bloemhard was the operations manager for the Urbana Conference Center and Chetty provided catering services.
“We never even considered another location – we wanted to be here and we made this work,” said Mark Bloemhard.
The owners of Fusion 40.83 are working to offer fine dining with a twist. They understand that people decide to locate to small towns for various reasons, including work, schools and overall quality of life. But that often means sacrificing certain amenities like good food.
“This is going to be special. We’re trying to redefine fine, fun dining,” Mark Bloemhard said. “While we want Fusion to be a fine dining restaurant, we want to make sure it’s fun. We’re glad to be able to offer an option for those who want great food in our community.” Elaine Morris Roberts