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Discover the Vibrant Flavors and Careful Craftsmanship of Pomelo's Innovative Thai Dishes Prepare to have your taste buds transported to heaven with each and every dish served at Pomelo. Located on Magazine Street, this quaint eatery exudes a warm, neighborhood feel that will make you feel right at home. With every delectable bite, you'll experience an explosion of flavors that will quite literally give you goosebumps. Simply put, the authentic Thai cuisine served at Pomelo is a culinary masterpiece. The husband and wife team behind Pomelo, Aom Srisuk and Frankie Weinberg, pour their hearts and souls into each dish they serve. Aom, in particular, takes her craft to Michelin-star levels of detail, ensuring that each plate that leaves her kitchen is absolutely perfect. Her dishes are crafted with love and passion, and you can taste the care that goes into every morsel. What sets Pomelo apart from other Thai restaurants is the sheer authenticity of their dishes. Not content to simply serve typical dishes, they also offer popular Thai street foods that you likely won't find anywhere else in the U.S. From start to finish, the meal is a journey through Thailand's rich and diverse cuisine. One dish that's not to be missed is the sweet corn salad. This light and refreshing starter is a perfect balance of sweet corn, tofu, celery, cilantro, onion, mango, and lime. The flavors meld together perfectly, creating a one-two punch that'll have you ready for more. Pomelo's laab dish, made with seasonal vegetables, is another standout. This typical meat dish has been veganized by the talented chefs at Pomelo, resulting in a light and fresh creation that's entirely unique. And then there are the curries. Aom has drawn inspiration from a variety of techniques to create her gluten-free curries. The green curry is a particularly exceptional creation, with sweet pumpkin squash balancing the heat from the spices. The dish is made with a coconut milk base, and topped with tofu, cilantro, broccoli, kaffir lime, and Thai basil. The peppers are actually grinded down with mortar and pestle, that is how much detail is put into the creation of this food. Originating from southern Thailand, the red curry, Massaman, is loaded with dry spices including cinnamon, cardamom, and anise. Served with brussel sprouts, asparagus, eggplant, potatoes and peanuts, every bite is a feast for the senses. This dish was like nothing we've ever tasted before–it had a totally unique curry stew vibe going on! The glass noodles really completed the meal–they were slightly spicy and packed with a mix of tasty vegetables, cilantro, lime, and onion that all exploded with flavor. What truly sets Pomelo apart is the level of detail that goes into every dish. From the tiny, perfectly fried onions that are mixed into the eggplant for an extra crunch, to the carefully sourced ingredients that make each dish sing, everything is done with purpose and intention. The result is food that's nourishing, authentic, and undeniably delicious. Opened just a year and a half ago in the aftermath of Hurricane Ida, Pomelo is a labor of love for its owners. They've created a cozy, welcoming space that's a true reflection of the care and passion they pour into every dish. So if you're in the mood for an unforgettable Thai dining experience, look no further than Pomelo.

Rarely do we start a review with such unwavering enthusiasm, but let us be clear: Omakaseed is a must-visit. Located in the heart of NoMad, just steps away from the renowned Virgin Hotel, this restaurant has earned a well-deserved reputation for excellence. Led by a respected and highly skilled sushi chef, the kitchen creates vegan sushi that is truly unmatched. Yet, Omakaseed's greatness extends far beyond its culinary expertise; its captivating ambiance creates an enchanting atmosphere, immersing diners in an unparalleled dining experience. While the sixty-minute tasting menu has become the talk of the town, Omakaseed has ingeniously designed a space where guests can savor the afterglow of their extraordinary journey. Imagine this: after indulging in a magnificent culinary adventure, one can seamlessly transition to the vibrant adjoining seating area for handcrafted drinks. Engaging conversations with newfound companions fill the air, creating a convivial and captivating atmosphere. This concept is brilliant in its ability to prolong the enchantment, allowing guests to extend their evening of pure delight. Omakaseed’s tasting menu demonstrated sushi mastery. Many establishments falsely present mundane combinations as sushi, carelessly placing eggplant on unseasoned rice. But fear not, as Omakaseed's visionary chef defies convention at every turn. Each meticulously crafted dish at Omakaseed embodies a delicate approach, striking the perfect balance of seasoning, flavors, and textures, elevating the dining experience to unprecedented heights. It was a sensory journey like no other. We had the privilege of sampling upcoming additions to the menu alongside their time-honored classics. To say we savored every moment would be an understatement. During the tasting experience, we were captivated by the exceptional creation of the Smoked Eggplant Nigiri where the chef skillfully seared marinated jackfruit, revealing its enticing smoky essence. We were truly astounded by the innovative creation of zucchini tempura, a dish that boldly pushed the boundaries of traditional flavors. One of the standout dishes from their standard menu was the Enoki Mushroom Salad, a refreshing sunomono-style creation that pleasantly surprised us with the invigorating zest of yuzu, accompanied by crisp cucumber and seaweed. The Cauliflower Puree, delicately infused with the flavors of torched satsuma mandarin and togarashi, left a lasting impression on us. The beautiful preparation of dishes like Pressed King Oyster Mushroom Nigiri and Tomato Nigiri, subtly enhanced with kombu, also showcased Omakaseed’s uniqueness and brought about an exceptional and pleasing taste. The Carrot Nigiri, expertly koji-cured and smoked, garnished with white kelp, demonstrated the chef's ingenious approach as well. Every bite of the Spaghetti Squash Nigiri, adorned with a delicate veil of fried onions, and the Zuke Daikon Nigiri, harmonizing the richness of fried shallots, brought pure enjoyment. We were enthralled by other highlights of their sushi creations, including the beautifully pressed and marinated Cucumber Gunkan, the perfectly layered Truffle Avocado Oshizushi, the exquisite Smoked Pineapple Nigiri, and the captivating Shiso Takuan Maki. Each of these offerings showcased the artistry and innovation present at Omakaseed. The Oyster Mushroom Handroll, sautéed in yuzu, and the Melon & Almond Ricotta, featuring chilled melon accompanied by whipped almond ricotta and nori, provided a harmonious end to our extraordinary journey. With the utmost reverence, we make an extraordinary claim: Omakaseed possesses undeniable qualities that deserve the highest accolades. To overlook the opportunity to savor the vegan sushi this establishment has to offer would be an irrevocable loss.

Chai Thai-Lao, owned by the visionary duo Lauren Cheramie and Nang Keophommavong, is a standout dining establishment in Baton Rouge. Despite its unassuming exterior and primarily takeout-focused service, the restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere. For those who choose to dine in, the casual setting ensures a friendly and relaxed experience. Honoring the roots of Thai culinary heritage, the menu provides a fresh take on traditional flavors, combining creativity with authenticity. Our culinary journey at Chai Thai-Lao began with their unique non-egg "egg" rolls. These exquisite handcrafted delights feature wheat flour wrappers filled with a medley of glass noodles, cabbage, carrots, and green onions. Each bite of the golden-crisped rolls bursts with authentic and bold flavors. While they are accompanied by a side of sweet and sour sauce, they truly shine on their own and require no additional accompaniments. Next, we eagerly devolved into the celebrated Pad Thai—a true Thai culinary masterpiece, thoughtfully prepared in line with tradition and expectations. In the dish, the stir-fried rice noodles were coated in vibrant Pad Thai sauce which harmonized well with the expertly seasoned vegetables and rich and flavorful tofu. We sampled both the medium and mild heat levels, each delivering a perfectly balanced profile. For diners seated in-house, the unlimited peanuts add a customizable touch that elevates the dish. Chai Thai-Lao also impresses with its generous portion sizes, ensuring you will leave satiated. Our dessert adventure led us to the sticky Mango Rice. Served warm, this dish exudes irresistible allure. The coconut sauce, rich in sweetness, beautifully complements the fresh mango and perfectly prepared sticky rice. Although the consistency of the coconut sauce was slightly thinner than expected, it did little to diminish the overall excellence of the dish. We look forward to revisiting Chai Thai-Lao to explore the fried banana dessert featured on the menu. We wholeheartedly recommend Chai Thai-Lao. A return visit is certainly on the horizon for us as we aim to explore the full spectrum of noodle and rice dishes on their menu, with a journey through their curries eagerly anticipated as well. Chai Thai-Lao is a culinary experience not to be missed in Baton Rouge.

A Gastronomic Masterpiece at the Pinnacle of Vegan Fine Dining Avant Garden beckons both New Yorkers and those from afar with an allure that transcends mere recommendation—it is an absolute must-visit. Located discreetly in an intimate setting, this exceptional gem casts a spell of refined sophistication on its guests. As the restaurant prepares for expansion, a testament to its overwhelming popularity, one must not miss the chance to secure a coveted reservation and embark on an extraordinary gastronomic adventure. The exceptional team at Avant Garden serve as invaluable guides, skillfully assisting guests in navigating their enticing menu. Any hesitations quickly fade away as the attentive staff graciously helps in selecting the perfect ensemble of dishes. Our journey began with the "Colds" section, starting with the baby gem—a charred gem lettuce Caesar salad. We then delighted in the brussels, a superb blend of brussels sprouts, candied walnut, cranberry, fig gastrique, and green apple. The avocado dish stood out, embodying the essence of Avant Garden's philosophy. The dish showcased a captivating combination of carrot ginger dressing, crispy rice, miso glaze, and blistered shishito peppers. What may seem like a simple avocado unravels into a captivating sushi-like experience, where perfectly vinegar-glazed rice, exquisite miso undertones, and an enchanting dressing elevate the dish to new heights. Despite being classified as "Colds," these dishes presented a harmonious interplay of temperatures, blending elements of warmth and cold temperatures. The brussels were equally enchanting, with a Caesar dressing that defied expectations and a humble Brussels sprout creation that exuded both simplicity and decadence. The restaurant's dedication to decadent plant-based cuisine was abundantly clear, as every dish showcased an exquisite balance of simplicity and skill, a testament to the expertise behind their creation. Moreover, each dish presented itself as a true work of art. Our journey continued with Avant Garden's renowned toast offerings, celebrated for their artistry and flavor. The roasted beet, featuring a sumptuous hummus, date, sumac, chickpea, and cucumber dip, captivated our palates. Equally captivating was the artichoke, accompanied by a luscious spinach artichoke puree, black truffle vinaigrette, and jicama. The intersection of flavors in these creations was truly divine, as the thoughtfully crafted dip transformed the roasted beet, while the exquisite combination of spinach artichoke and black truffle left a lasting impression. Each bite offered a delightful medley of textures and flavors. The hot dishes were equally impressive. The scorched cauliflower dish, boasting toasted garlic, fried capers, and a velvety cauliflower puree, presented a unique and outstanding creation. The celery root dish, accompanied by a Shiitake mushroom sauce and mushroom gremolata, reignited our appreciation for this often-overlooked vegetable. The hen of the woods mushroom puree dish, served alongside kohlrabi and pickled hon shimeji, showcased a remarkable blend of flavors. The roasted carrot entree, artfully paired with farro, ramp chimichurri, and cucumber tzatziki offered a remarkable reinterpretation of the humble root vegetable. Lastly, the house-made spaghetti, enveloped in a creamy carbonara-inspired sauce and adorned with smoked mushrooms and spring onion, delivered an unparalleled taste experience. Each hot dish surpassed expectations, emerging as culinary masterpieces. The scorched cauliflower exceeded any prior encounters with this ubiquitous vegetable, while the celery root displayed a level of creativity that defied expectations. From its ambiance and atmosphere to its decadent offerings, this establishment sets a new benchmark in vegan fine dining. Avant Garden astounds with its ability to deliver an unparalleled sensory experience. If the opportunity arises to secure a reservation, spare no effort or expense, for the rewards of this culinary pilgrimage are immeasurable.

Breads on Oak is Doing God’s Work & Elevating the Art of Baking with Artisanal Delights As self-proclaimed experts in the art of indulgence, we set out to leave no stone unturned when exploring the offerings of Breads on Oak . We’ve tried the entire menu for sweets (you know, for research purposes) and were impressed by every SINGLE item. It’s as though the bakers here possess an otherworldly talent for turning flour, sugar, and spice into bites of pure bliss. It’s like they’ve bottled up pure joy and sprinkled it into every pastry, every cake, every cookie. Every single item on the menu boasts an unparalleled level of perfection that left us truly in awe. The secret? Only the finest, most premium ingredients are used in every recipe. The use of high quality ingredients makes a huge difference, as you can indulge in an entire cake without experiencing a sugar rush and the complexity, depth of the flavor, and texture profile are on another level. Oh, and did we mention that everything is vegan? Now, we haven’t had a chance to try the savory items yet (we know, we’re slacking), but we promise to fix that soon. Stay tuned for the sequel to this review. We can’t wait to savor the savory side of this culinary paradise, because the sweet offerings alone have earned our unwavering loyalty. We do have our personal favorites, of course. The Oak Street location is a true gem, with a slight edge over its downtown counterpart. And if you’re a lover of all things chocolate, we recommend indulging in the chocolate cake ganache, brownies, or chocolate chip cookies — they’re an absolute must-try. But for us, it’s the white chocolate cookies, cinnamon rolls, maple bars, and brioche donuts that truly take the cake. (Pun fully intended.) But let’s talk about the literal breads of Breads on Oak, shall we? They’re nothing short of a culinary marvel. Each and every one is a work of art, boasting a taste profile and mouthfeel that is nothing short of divine. Oh, and the fillings of the pastries are out of this world. The richness of the cream cheese and the tanginess of the strawberry cream cheese in particular will leave you weak at the knees, and those are just two options among many. This bakery is a true hidden gem, a culinary wonderland that must be experienced firsthand. The quality of the ingredients, the care that goes into every dish, and the one-of-a-kind flavors are sure to win over even the most discerning of foodies. This is a place that everyone needs to try before they depart from this Earth.

Indulge in Vegan and Gluten-Free Delights in the Heart of New Orleans’ French Quarter We recently had the sublime pleasure of dining at Zhang Bistro , situated in the heart of the charming French Quarter of New Orleans. This vibey Asian-fusion restaurant, which opened its doors in 2021, offers an exceptional culinary experience that will enrapture even the most discerning palates. The delectable blend of Thai and Chinese cuisine, complete with a separate vegan menu, ensures that all guests are treated to a feast that delights both the senses and the soul. The fact that the restaurant also offers a gluten-free menu is a testament to their dedication to catering to every discerning palate. Our culinary journey began with the delectable spicy garlic edamame, its perfectly cooked and seasoned beans awash with the fiery essence of a piquant garlic sauce. As we savored this superb starter, our taste buds were further invigorated by the captivating fresh roll tofu, a divine creation of rice paper enveloping tender tofu, crisp lettuce, carrots, and fragrant Thai basil, complemented by a sumptuous hoisin peanuts sauce that sang in harmony with every bite. The cucumber salad was also a delight, the combination of fresh cucumber with sesame seeds and a slightly spicy crunchy garlic chili sauce is a feast for the senses. The cool, crisp cucumber contrasts perfectly with the nutty sesame seeds and the bold, garlicky chili sauce. Our taste buds were then set alight with an array of magnificent main courses, including the spicy Szechuan hot wok, a vivacious concoction of tofu, onion, green pepper, cauliflower, jalapeno, and garlic, artfully tossed with a fiery Szechuan sauce that evokes the most vibrant flavors. The sweet and sour tofu, served with pineapples and vegetables in a mouthwatering sweet and sour sauce, was a symphony of sweet and tangy flavors that left us spellbound. Another dish that left us entranced was the red curry, a bewitching blend of coconut milk, red chilies, and a medley of fresh vegetables such as Thai basil, bamboo, and bell pepper, all harmoniously combined to create a fiery curry that captivated the senses. The vegan egg roll was everything. Encased in a crispy wheat wrapper, its interior was a symphony of flavors, composed of tender carrots, verdant cabbage, crunchy bamboo shoots, and delicate bean thread noodles. Every bite was a revelation, further enhanced by the subtle tang of the homemade sweet chili sauce that accompanied this exquisite dish. Finally, we savored the General Tso’s tofu, a superbly crafted dish featuring crispy tofu, red and green peppers, onion, and garlic in a spicy and tangy red sauce that sent our taste buds into an ecstatic frenzy. As we dined at Zhang Bistro, we were treated to a mesmerizing ambiance that was accentuated by the melodies of the early 2000s that brought all the nostalgia. Zhang Bistro is a culinary haven that transports diners on a mouthwatering journey with classic Chinese and Thai dishes. With their generous portion sizes and flavors that are both authentic and bold, it is no wonder that locals in New Orleans hold this enchanting restaurant in the highest regard.

Indulge in the Epicurean Delights of Thaihey’s Gastronomic Odyssey Nestled in the heart of the enchanting French Quarter of New Orleans, lies a culinary gem known as Thaihey — a restaurant that elevates the art of Thai cuisine to new heights. From the concept’s beginnings at the Lafayette Farmers & Artisans Market to a short stint at the White Star Market, and finally, a full-fledged restaurant on Lee Drive in Baton Rouge, Thaihey has come a long way to grace the streets of NOLA with its unparalleled flavors. The vegan menu is a fan favorite — on some days, as many as 70% of the menu items ordered are vegan offerings. The Fried Tofu & Lotus Root dish is a standout, featuring deep-fried tofu and lotus root tossed with spicy Thai seasoning. The combination of the crunchy texture and bold flavor profile is nothing short of delightful. Another must-try dish is the Tofu Satay, consisting of grilled tofu marinated in coconut milk and turmeric, accompanied by a peanut sauce and sweet pickled cucumber radish that perfectly balance the tofu. The Pumpkin Curry is a delectable Red Curry Kabocha pumpkin dish that is served with tofu and Thai basil, complemented by a side of Jasmine rice. The depth of flavors and the aromatic spices used in the curry are simply unmatched, making it the most popular item. For an indulgent dish, the Spicy Eggplant is highly recommended as well. The flavor-packed eggplant is hand-cut to perfection and incredibly crispy, served in a spicy garlic and basil sauce which bring it to life. The Vegan Boat Noodle is also a tantalizing option. The dish features five-spice rice noodle soup served with silken tofu, shiitake mushroom, and spinach. The broth is savory and robust, and the toppings perfectly complement the dish. To complement the meal, the Purple Palmer and Thai Ice Tea were refreshing and flavorful. The presentation of the food is impeccable, and the quality is top-notch. The menu is seasonal, and many of the ingredients are locally sourced, adding a unique touch to each dish. The restaurant’s atmosphere is more than just a feast for the taste buds — it’s an aesthetically pleasing haven that elevates the dining experience to a whole new level. Every detail has been thoughtfully curated to create a soothing and inviting ambiance. With a passion for precision and an unrelenting focus on crafting the perfect flavor profile, owners Orawin “Nim” Yimchalam and Nathan Greene have poured their hearts and souls into every dish at Thaihey. Nim’s extensive experience in the industry and her mother’s legacy of culinary excellence in Thailand are evident in every bite, making Thaihey a destination for any true food connoisseur. In fact, such is the caliber of the sauces at Thaihey that the team is planning to bottle and sell them soon, a testament to their quality and popularity. Don’t miss the chance to taste these delectable sauces for yourself!

The Ontario pizza trail continues as we explore the region’s eclectic pizza scene. When in Ontario, any food enthusiast must make a pilgrimage to Earth to Table: Bread Bar. Curious to uncover the secrets of the best pizza in Canada, I ventured forth and, spoiler alert, my hasty ordering left me with a sense of regret. So let me give you a little tip — make sure you order the right one. Unfortunately, I missed the mark on the first go-round at Earth to Table Bread Bar. I went with the vegan option, the “MEAN BEAN,” and then proceeded to customize it like a mad scientist in a lab. Now, don’t get me wrong, it had some great components — red onion, crispy sage, chili flake, and a maple tahini sauce — but the white bean puree was just meh. Not terrible, mind you, but not exactly a flavor explosion either. It left me feeling a little lost, like I was caught between hesitant satisfaction and terror. To make matters worse, our toppings didn’t quite cover the pie like I wanted. I mean, when I eat pizza, I want my toppings to be cascading off the slice like a waterfall of flavor. I want it to be so top-heavy that I have to cradle the slice like a newborn baby just to keep it together. This pizza, on the other hand, was more like a light dusting of toppings. I needed more, I craved more. But here’s where things get interesting — the crust. Oh my, the crust. It was like a choir of angels singing a sweet melody in my mouth. Soft, full of gluten, and thick. Like really thick. With each bite, I was getting an entire meal of bread. And, to top it off, they actually seasoned the crust, giving it a delicious flavor that complemented the toppings (or lack thereof) quite nicely. Now, I don’t want to discourage you from trying the “MEAN BEAN,” but if you’re like me and want to go for the gusto, go for the marinara sauce pizza. That’s where the real magic happens according to my dining companions. I found myself quite envious of their selection when it was all said and done because it was certainly the superior choice. And if you’re still feeling skeptical, just ask for a plate of their bread. Trust me, it’s worth it.

A look into our expedition through Canada’s eclectic pizza scene in Ontario. Greetings, my fellow food enthusiasts! I must say, my journey to the land of maple syrup and hockey was an adventure like no other. Who knew that the great nation of Canada would be so bold as to banish salt from its culinary landscape? Okay fine — slight exaggeration — the sodium levels are limited by Canada’s food administration. Alas, however, my taste buds were in for quite the shock. As an American who grew up on the S.A.D–Standard American Diet — I’m accustomed to having a massive amount of salt in everything, even in desserts. But Canada’s government had other plans, and I must say, it has worked wonders for my health as I’ve drastically reduced my sodium consumption since. Now, let us move on to the review at hand. We had the pleasure of indulging in some vegan pizza, and oh my goodness, it was quite the experience! The thin crust pizza is the star of the show, and we simply couldn’t decide on just one, so we went for two. First up, we had the Potato pizza, which featured roasted garlic purée, sliced potatoes, roasted apple, vegan cheese, and fried rosemary. Now, I’ll admit, I was a bit hesitant to try potato pizza, but my curiosity got the best of me, and I requested sweet potato and SMOKED PIRI PIRI TOFU on the side in case I wanted to spice it up. And a few slices in sure enough I decided to add the sweet potato and tofu and let me tell you, the Piri Piri tofu was a flavor explosion in my mouth! Without the crutch of salt, the chefs have mastered the art of seasoning, and each bite was bursting with deliciousness. However, I must note that the toppings were a bit sparse for my liking. As an American, I’m used to indulgent loaded pizzas with layer upon layer of toppings, but this place was not like the usual suspects. It was more of a “less is more” approach. Nevertheless, the Daiya cheese was good, albeit not in-house made, and the crust had a good gluten content, although it was a tad too hard for my taste. Moving on to our second pizza, the vegan Chorizo pizza, which boasted tomato sauce, spinach, roasted red pepper, vegan cheese, and their lentil and chickpea in-house made meat substitute, pickled red onion, and their vegan sumac and dill aioli. This pizza was a game-changer. The flavors were so perfectly balanced that it hit every single spot in my palate. The pickled red onions were a true highlight, and they worked wonderfully with the sauce. Again, the toppings were sparse, but the taste more than made up for it. Overall, would I go back here if I didn’t have to? Perhaps not. But would I avoid it like the plague? Absolutely not. If you’re looking for a unique pizza experience that’s light on salt and heavy on flavor, then this is the spot for you. And who knows, you might even discover a newfound appreciation for potato pizza like I did!

Beautiful foods and views at Elements at the Sanctuary Resort . Paradise Valley, the luxurious Beverly Hills of Arizona, offers a picturesque landscape that’s bound to make your heart skip a beat. This quaint oasis is nestled amidst towering mountains and swaying palm trees that leave a lasting impression on your senses. And, if you’re on the hunt for delectable cuisine, then look no further than Elements at the Sanctuary Resort. Their menu is a feast for both vegans and omnivores alike. The restaurant offers an array of farm to table American Cuisine with Asian accents. Elements’ Chef Samantha Sanz creates seasonal menus incorporating local, organic produce. From the moment you step in, the impeccable service and sophisticated decor sets the tone for an unforgettable culinary journey. The star of the show has to be their chilled coconut and chia seed parfait. The combination of velvety chia pudding, succulent berries, sweet banana, crunchy coconut flakes, and nutty dark chocolate hemp seeds create a symphony of flavors that delight your palate. Not only is it scrumptious, but it’s also packed with essential nutrients and antioxidants, making it the perfect guilt-free indulgence. However, if you’re looking for something more substantial, the vegan burger will not disappoint. The “smash” burger patty is generously stacked with caramelized onions, their signature “fancy sauce,” and classic lettuce, tomato, and pickle toppings, sandwiched between two seared buns. The burger is juicy, seasoned to perfection, and simply massive. And, let’s not forget about the fries. These thick, natural cut fries, sprinkled with just the right amount of salt, are the cherry on top of an already incredible meal. Overall, Elements is a must-visit restaurant that exudes a trendy vibe while satisfying your cravings with scrumptious food. The ambiance is equal parts chic and cozy, leaving you with a dining experience that’s unparalleled. I can’t recommend this place enough.

If you’re looking for a cheat meal, I-Tal is your place! We’re not just food critics, we’re food enthusiasts and this is why! Let us take you on a journey to one of the best vegan soul restaurants in New Orleans, where we had the pleasure of dining not once, but twice. I-Tal Garden is the name, and it’s a must-visit spot for all foodies out there. The menu is predominantly battered and fried, but don’t let that fool you. I-Tal only uses premium ingredients and no seed oils, making you feel full, light, and nourished after your meal. We started with the crabless crab cakes made from chickpeas, hearts of palm, and artichoke hearts, grilled to perfection and fried with a light batter. The sauce complemented the dish well, but honestly, it didn’t even need it. It was that tasty! The cauliwings were addictive. We couldn’t stop munching on them, and we even had to try them with every sauce available. The honey mustard sauce was the clear winner, though. It was so good that it could make anything taste great, even celery! Next up, we tried the mac and cheese, which we ended up having twice. The cheese was amazing, the noodle was cooked perfectly, and the seasoning was perfectly executed. The cornbread was FIRE. Not many restaurants can pull off vegan cornbread — this was expertly seasoned and moist. The Ra pasta, named after the owner, was a real winner. The smoked jackfruit, grilled veggies, and coconut milk-based sauce made for a heavenly dish that had us rethinking our life choices. We also tried the Rodeo Burger, a house-made plant-based patty topped with vegan American-style cheese, seitan bacon, crispy fried onion rings, and veganaise. Messy but delicious, it was one of the best burgers we’ve ever had — and let me tell you, we are burger snobs to the highest degree. The Filet Mushroom Burger was another winner, with crispy oyster mushrooms dressed in vegan tartar sauce, lettuce, tomatoes, and vegan cheddar cheese. The Shrimp Sandwich was also a hit, with panko-fried mushroom bites dressed in veganaise, lettuce, tomatoes, and ketchup on a sprouted bun. Despite being stuffed to the gills, we tried the coconut chickpeas and the jackfruit ribs, which were succulent and satisfying. Lastly, the Fluffy double stack buttered spelt pancakes, chickpea scrambled, seitan sausage, and quinoa jambalaya were divine. The moist pancakes paired perfectly with the sweet sausage and delicious scrambled chickpeas. Although we’re not the biggest fan of quinoa, the jambalaya was outstanding. Each dish was cooked to perfection and left us feeling satisfied and happy. Overall, I-Tal is top-notch and we can’t wait to go back for more. It’s a cheat meal that won’t leave you feeling guilty and the flavors are out of this world!

Indulge in Vegan Culinary Magic, Impeccable Vibes & Unforgettable Plant-Based Creations and Divine Desserts Planta is a verdant paradise that has taken the restaurant world by storm since its inception in 2016. With 12 locations across the US, including two in the Big Apple, Planta has wowed the palates of vegans and meat-lovers alike. Our recent visit to the Williamsburg branch of this gastronomic sanctuary left us awestruck by its offerings. The moment we entered, we were struck by the sheer amount of natural light that flooded the space, which along with the captivating decor created the ambiance of a cozy, earthy, and modern minimalist vibe that was beyond compare. The customer service was nothing short of impeccable, a testament to Planta's commitment to delivering plant-based hospitality at its finest. The clientele added to the vibrant atmosphere, with everyone thoroughly enjoying themselves while maintaining an appropriate noise level, allowing for uninterrupted conversations. Planta is an ideal setting for a romantic date, a professional business meeting, or a group of friends seeking a delightful experience. What sets Planta apart is its unflinching dedication to crafting flavors that are miles away from the ordinary mock meats and tofu or seitan-based dishes. Each dish is a work of art, with intricate textures and flavors that are multi-dimensional, creating a remarkable depth. This isn't a restaurant that merely mimics meat-based cuisine, but rather it redefines plant-forward cuisine in an entirely novel way. One aspect we particularly admire about this restaurant is its authenticity in embracing their plant-based ethos . If the notion of a vegan menu offends you, you may miss out on exceptional food, but Planta is confident enough in their culinary creations that they do not shy away from their vegan identity. During our visit, we had the pleasure of savoring a plethora of dishes, each more tantalizing than the last. The Avocado Lime Tartare stole the show. With its beetroot tuna, pine nuts, and capers, the dish had a bold, fresh taste, and the citrus soy, sesame, and cilantro added a zesty kick. Served with crispy taro chips, it was the perfect appetizer to kickstart the meal. Most customers will try a dish like this and just love it, but they won’t realize the time and effort that went into meticulous R&D to make this dish taste exactly like the analogue it is replacing. This is what makes Planta truly exceptional—despite knowing that most customers won't think twice about the effort behind each dish, they still put in the painstaking effort to ensure an unparalleled dining experience. The Unagi Eggplant Nigiri was a standout with its perfectly textured eggplant and miso truffle glaze that added a delightful umami flavor. The torched and pressed sushi roll, filled with creamy avocado and drizzled with miso truffle glaze, was another crowd-pleaser. Another must-try starter was the Whipped Ricotta dish (this might be one of the best ricottas we have ever tried…and its housemade), the dish involved a creamy vegan ricotta cheese spread served with warm bread, truffle mushroom shavings, and agave drizzle. Additionally, the bao slider with its "chick'n" fried mushroom and pickled cucumber paired with hoisin sauce was a definite winner. Moving on to the mains, the Spicy Chorizo pizza, featuring a cashew mozzarella base and potato chorizo, was a flavor explosion with just the right amount of heat. The perfectly crispy crust held up well under the toppings. It's worth noting that the sauce on this pizza is sweeter than ordinary pizza sauce, a deliberate choice to balance the spiciness. We enjoyed the contrast, but if you prefer a less sweet pizza sauce, other options on the menu might be more suitable. During the lengthy course of our Future Food journey, you all know that we have encountered numerous disappointments with pizzas, mac and cheese, and pancakes, but we can confidently say that Planta's pizzas have surpassed our expectations. Another standout dish was the Spicy Lumaconi Pasta, featuring a tangy tomato rosé sauce, cashew mozzarella, and calabrese chili. The combination of textures and flavors was simply divine. No visit to Planta is complete without indulging in their decadent desserts. The Cinnamon Bun, served warm with a drizzle of maple syrup, was truly exceptional and pleasantly avoided the overwhelming sweetness common in most cinnamon buns. We cannot stress this enough: if you visit Planta, ordering the cinnamon bun is an absolute must. If you’re conscious of calories, it is well worth spending extra time in the gym to experience this culinary delight. The Banana Waffles, topped with roasted pecans, maple syrup, and chocolate sauce, were heavenly, while the French Toast, coated in a crunchy corn flake granola and topped with a berry compote, offered a delightful twist on a classic dish. It is safe to say that this French toast is the epitome of a life worth living, and missing out on it would be a tremendous loss. When it comes to beverages, we highly recommend the Melon Rose, a refreshing concoction made with watermelon, rose water, lemon, mint, and agave. The selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages was extensive, and the inviting bar added to the overall experience. Although we do not consume alcohol ourselves, we can confidently say that there is plenty of variety to suit different preferences. Planta Williamsburg is more than just a vegan restaurant—it is a botanical gastronomic adventure that stimulates all the senses. From the impeccable service to the thoughtfully crafted dishes, it lives up to the hype. Planta has expanded to Marina Del Rey and will soon open in Brentwood on the West Coast, followed by Atlanta in the South. We highly recommend visiting all of the Planta locations, as we plan to do, and if you happen to visit before us, please share your thoughts with us. Our next Planta stop will be the stunning Marina Del Rey location and the location where it all began, in Toronto. We don't say this often, but a visit to Planta is an absolute must !