Solomon & Kuff

With cocktail whiz Karl Franz Williams and a selection of 100 rums, some thought Solomon & Kuff (Rum Hall) was a modern-day speakeasy when it debuted in Dec. 2015. Now that Chef Christopher Faulkner is working his magic, the menu includes more than bar bites. Buttressed by his stints at Patroon, Melba's and Colors, Solomon & Kuff's lineup is peppered with West Indian influence featuring rustic dishes presented in a gastropub style. Even the name is spiked with history: named for the sons of a slave who secured his freedom and theirs. A dicey selection might include yucca fries complemented by a flavor-packed green chili aioli; Escovitch skewers paired with a decadent warm onion and pepper marmalade; and Jerked Japanese Eggplant drizzled with a rich red wine thyme vinaigrette.