Chef Samuel G. Beket, formerly of Le Relais
in Manhattan, has launched his first restaurant, Kush Cafe, on
Putnam Avenue in Clinton Hill. To give diners a taste of his
Pan-African cuisine, on Jan. 28 and Jan. 29, from 5 pm to 11
pm, Beket will offer a grand opening sampling menu of his dishes
at reduced prices.
The setting of the cafe – named for the ancient land of Nubia
– could double as an art gallery with oversized books depicting
African life placed atop the bar and on bookshelves; walls sporting
ancient African symbols of prosperity and protection; and framed
photos of African tribesman.
The cooking promises to live up to the dramatic backdrop with
a stew of shellfish, tilapia, turnips and other root vegetables
in "mafe," a peanut butter sauce; and "couscous
royale": chicken, lamb, veal sausage and vegetables moistened
with a light veal and lamb broth.
For dessert, there’s a fusion take on the classic French apple
tarte Tatin (pictured) – Beket adds slices of sweet plantains
to the tart, naps it with caramel sauce and tops the confection
with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Kush Cafe (17 Putnam Ave. between Grand Avenue and Cambridge
Place in Clinton Hill) accepts cash only. Entrees: $8.50-$12.
The cafe serves lunch and dinner Tuesdays through Sundays. Brunch
is served Saturdays and Sundays from 10 am to 4 pm. Closed Mondays.
For more information, call (718) 230-3471.
