I met up with my parents in New York this past August and every night, for over a week, we dined at terrific vegan places. The city is a wonderful place to eat meat-free.
The first thing I did when I started planning my vacation was make reservations for Candle 79, New York’s premier vegan oasis (yes, it says that on their website and it’s so true!). On our first night in the Big Apple. we left our condo in Harlem and went to Candle 79’s two-story location on the Upper East Side.
I never thought I’d forget the exact names of what we were eating, but I did. And being an organic, local, seasonal eatery means the menu changes often. So forgive my inaccuracies–and believe be when I share how delicious it all was!
First, we were treated to an amuse-bouche. A delightful teaser and hint of things to come. I tasted chickpeas and cucumber in a smooth creamy sauce.
My parents split an order of spaghetti and wheat balls. It’s a classic simple dish but Candle 79 put their own unique twist on it and my parents couldn’t get enough!
I ate a seitan (or possible tempeh) cutlet with apples and beans. It was divine. The best part about eating in a vegan restaurant (aside from knowing it’s a cruelty-free place and everyone is not eating animals) is that I can order anything off the menu, no questions asked! So I asked very few questions and now I can’t tell you the specifics of what I ate (except I’d be eating there right now again if I could teleport).
Finally, we had chocolate peanut butter bliss for dessert.
Happy, healthy dining!
After our meal, we walked toward Central Park along Lexington, took in the quintessential New York streets, and caught a cab back to our place.
What a fantastic way to start a vacation. If you’re ever in New York, don’t miss the Candle 79 experience!
Sunshine and Slaughter 
One day my husband and I will get there! One day… 🙂
You’ll love it, celeste!
I’m so glad I stumbled upon your blog today! And I have to say – as a New Yorker, Candle 79 IS one of the best vegan restaurants in the city. Glad you were able to find it when you were here!
🙂
Jamie
Thanks for stopping by! I’ll check out your blog right away. I’m glad I was on the right track when I booked a table at candle 79. I enjoy authentic travel experiences and if a New Yorker (you) can vouch for the place, I feel like I made a good choice! We also went to Blossom, Pure Food and Wine, and several other places. What a treat!
Ah yes! You definitely hit the right places. Pure Food & Wine is another one of my favorites – and Blossom is always a go-to. 🙂
Wow, I was just about to work on my Candle 79 post also!!! Was so happy to go there for my birthday this past weekend! I was curious about their other dishes! This is great!
That’s a great coincidence! I’ll have a look at what you wrote! It’s a perfect place to go for a celebration. Happy Birthday!
Great photos!!! Thanks for doing all the research and finding these wonderful places to dine in style with delicious, nutritious food served in elegance!! I felt regal!! It’s more than eating–it’s an experience to savour!! ♥
It really is an experience, isn’t it? More than just about filling one’s belly. Of course we all left satisfied, but it was social, nourishing, decadent, and ethical. No wonder we left recharged!
I’m a NYC native and generally go back once or twice a year to visit my family. We have to go to Candle 79 next time we are there! Thanks, Jean!
So cool! I didn’t know you were from NY! I have to recommend Blossom and Peacefoods as well. Wonderful dishes.