packs a powerful punch

Wednesday, August 6th, 2008 Take Five Pierce

Take Five: Vividly Vegan

A hub for sustainably cultivated, locally grown, and organic foods, it is no surprise that the New York restaurant scene, already world-renown for its increasing environmental and health consciousness, is such a major haven for vegans and anyone who enjoys fresh, green cuisine. Here at Gobbl it is our mission to provide our readers with access to the highest quality food at reasonable prices (not to mention ultra-slick ambiences and interesting clientèle). Therefore, we present to you our green-thumbed guide to the best vegan restaurants in New York City. Whether you are a vegan or not, these restaurants are definitely worth the trip!

Blossom
Voted the best vegan restaurant in NYC in 2008 by Time Out New York, this vegan mainstay serves up beautifully presented dishes ranging from a succulent seitan scallopini to a portobello mushroom stuffed in a cashew-tahini sauce. Head to their Upper Westside location, Blossom Cafe, for a chance to enjoy their quiet ambience, smooth yellow lighting, and exquisite diner-top dining. Don’t forget to try the mouthwatering vegan Philly cheesesteak and sample their daily selection of freshly-baked desserts.
Blossom, 187 9th Ave. (Between 21st & 22nd Sts.)
Blossom Cafe, 466 Columbus Ave. (Between 82nd and 83rd Sts.)

Angelica Kitchen
This East Village gem bases its name off of the Angelica blossom rumored to have holistic health benefits. Angelica Kitchen strives to further the plant’s healing tradition by directly eliminating the middleman in all of its food procurement practices to ensure that it nurtures deep roots in local farm communities. Angelica brings you the freshest organic ingredients while inside the restaurant still sustaining the rural farming ambience that it supports.
Angelica Kitchen, 300 E. 12th St. (Between 1st & 2nd Aves.)

Sacred Chow
A comfy and casual vegan bistro in the West Village, Sacred Chow may be easy to overlook at first glance but packs a powerful punch with its artsy decor and beautiful waitstaff. It’s perfect for a weekend lunch with friends or to catch your breath after an outing in nearby Washington Square Park. Don’t miss out on their seitan heroes or freshly squeezed fruit juices either.
Sacred Chow,227 Sullivan St. (Between Bleecker & W. 3rd St.)

Pure Food and Wine
This Irving Place hotspot considers itself the real deal when it comes to organic and sustainable dining. All the food here has never been heated above 118 degrees Fahrenheit, which qualifies it as an exclusively raw food restaurant. Be sure to check out their extensive organic wine list, quite like the one at Counter’s organic wine bar to pair with your creatively raw concoctions.
Pure Food and Wine, 54 Irving Pl. (Between 17th & 18th Sts.)

Candle 79
The Upper East Side boasts the finest in vegan dining, Candle 79, a bit pricier than its counterparts but more luxurious and sophisticated. Try one of their farmers’ market entrees such as the sesame crusted tofu, the seitan timbale (served with a black bean sauce and chipotle coulis), or even the tuscan lasagna. For a more low-key outing head to Candle Cafe (the original locale) and try a blended fruit smoothie or take out from their catering menu.
Candle 79, 154 E. 79th St. (Between Lexington & 3rd Aves.)
Candle Cafe, 1307 3rd Ave. (Between 74th & 75th Sts.)