First Bite: Kupros Bistro

I stopped by Kupros Bistro in midtown a little after 5pm last Friday evening. It was opening night for the new gastropub, and the place hummed with jittery excitement and anticipation. The snug downstairs space where I sat was absolutely stunning, dominated by a glossy, u-shaped wood bar and stained glass drop ceiling. Kupros’ beer selection is very fun – ranging from a Lost Abbey Red Barn pale ale to something called New Belgium “Lips of Faith,” there seems to be a sudsy selection for every beer lover. The opening menu is quite intriguing – I enjoyed the kitchen’s light, refreshing calamari salad, tossed with chunks of avocado and feisty pepperoncinis; and the tasty duck confit Reuben sandwich was – big surprise – great with beer.  I’ll be back soon for a cold pint of the Arrogant Bastard ale and the chef’s seasonal charcuterie platter, which includes “potted” rabbit, oxtail foie gras and pickled chanterelle mushrooms.