Nate Howell
Nate Howell
We knew Nate Howell was good when he launched the cocktail program at the new Cusp in La Jolla last year with seasonal ingredients and house-infused liquors. So we expect big things as he moves into the Gaslamp to restart another Kimpton hotel bar concept, this time at Jsix inside Hotel Solamar, which debuts its much-needed menu and design overhaul this month. In keeping with hallowed chef Christian Graves’ culinary style, Howell is focusing the cocktail program on regional flavors. His Northwest homage, Hunt & Gather, blends local cedar-infused Aviation gin with grenadine, fresh grapefruit, egg white, and Oregon Pinot noir. He nudges the South with Hola Y’all, a blend of BBQ rub-infused Tito’s vodka, mezcal, agave, fresh lime, and house-grown cilantro. And the drinks get even more chef-y: we hear he’s infusing some of the house spirits with smoked meats and rubs from Graves’ kitchen.
