Described by The New York Times as “a darling of downtown New Rochelle,” Alvin & Friends– selected by Open Table users for a 2015 Diner’s Choice award and winner of a 2015 Certificate of Excellence from Trip Advisor -- serves contemporary cuisine with Southern and Caribbean flavors in a sophisticated space that is both elegant and comfortable: Wooden panels inset with glass windows carve the main room into cozy dining areas, while dramatic iron-and-hemp chandeliers accent the high ceilings and provide a counterpoint to the colorful artwork that covers the walls. Indeed, the dozens of stunning, Matisse-inspired oil paintings — created by owner Alvin Clayton — are part of the restaurant’s signature look. Alvin & Friends offers live music on Friday and Saturday nights as well as a jazz brunch on Sundays from 11:30 am to 3 pm. Alvin & Friends is open Thursdays through Sundays for Lunch from noon to 3 pm (Brunch on Sundays) and Tuesdays through Sundays for Dinner from 5 to 10 pm, with a late night menu available on Fridays and Saturdays till midnight. Call (914) 654-6549 for reservations. And visit the restaurant online at www.alvinandfriendsrestaurant.com.