There’s no meat in that? Really? It’s vegan? C’mon, you’re kidding. OMG this tastes amazing – like a party in my mouth!
That is what was going through my mind as I devoured the Seitan Chimichurri. It has this smoky flaver and slightly burnt edges as if cooked right on the bar-b-que. I could have sworn it was a meat product as it had great texture and substance. Served on skewers like a shishkabob. After this wonder I knew we were in for a treat. I had no clue that going meatless could be so tasty, but Candle Cafe on the Upper East Side of NYC enlightened me as to what delicious vegan cooking can be!
Now let me proclaim that I am a meat eater. I absolutely love love love steak, chicken, bacon, etc. If it moo’s I will eat it! But lately I feel a need to broaden my food horizon and try some healthier options. So here I was in a vegan restaurant.
We ordered two sandwiches to share. The Cajun Seitan Sandwich and the BBQ Tempah and Sweet Potato Sandwich. Both were nicely portioned and came with a side of wonderful cole slaw, salad with balsamic dressing, and sandwich spreads. Honestly, these were big and tasty! I was pleasantly surprised and so happy as I dug in! The Cajun sandwich was like eating breaded chicken cutlet on toasted focaccia bread, and it had these amazing carmelized onions and avocado in it. Just ridiculous! The BBQ Tempah was served on a multigrain bread, with sweet potato and grilled red onion. Again, just terrific flavor.
Had to try the dessert here. The couple next to us and our waitress suggested the chocolate mousse pie, and boy were they right! Dense, smooth, chocolatey! One was enough to share. I wanted to lick the plate!
The service tonight was very attentive, and friendly enough. Water was constantly filled. Never really felt rushed as others have proclaimed in reviews I had read, and the place was packed. Got there about eight, was kind of empty, but by 8:15 not one table was open, so we lucked out. Also, they carry a nice selection of organic beers. Had the Wolavers Brown Ale and it was a nice addition to the meal.
I think I really have to come back here to try more of the offerings on the menu. It was that good. I don’t think I can ever be a full vegan, but I can be a part timer!
Candle Cafe – http://www.candlecafe.com/
http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-candle-cafe-new-york-3
Usually I love you for your famous MEAT, but I had to see what the dilly, yo. That looks really good! I love when a dish is delicious and I found out LATER it didn’t have meat. That’s the kind of thing I like to hear after the fact, so I’m not freaked out about it ahead of time.
Hey Joy!
So glad you ladies enjoy my meat! 😉
I figured I have to mix it up sometimes. We really enjoyed the food here. Not ready to be a total vegan, but heck yeah this was really tasty!
WOW! Who knew Vegan food would look and taste so good? I always had this vision of vegans gnawing raw carrots. And, filbio CHOOSING to dine there?
Until you added the beer review, I worried terrorists (or, your wife) had put mind. Altering MEDS in your water/beer supply.
Hey Gloria!
Hope you are doing well!
Yeah, it’s like the pod people took over my body. Even I enjoy a good salad now and then. But then I come back to reality and eat a bowl of bacon. Along with a beer.
I will admit, some vegan like this is tasty!
I want to lick the plate of chocolate pie.
I want a part in my mouth!
Yessssssssssss, the life of Phil Rocks. x
Hey Kim!
LOL! I don’t know how to take this. Just some hunger pangs or is this an erotic comment! 😉
Great spotlight… I am quite red meatless … Thus this place would fit me perfectly, dear Phil. Happy week ahead to you, Aquileana 🙂
Hey Aquileana!
Sounds like you might enjoy a meatless bite here. Thanks for reading and have a great week!
Never thought I’d see the day when you’d go Vegan. So glad you tried it, looks like you really enjoyed it
Hey Karen!
Must have been momentary insanity on my part! Hey, I’m up for new taste adventures with all the great spots here in NYC. I gotta admit I enjoyed it!
Now this I had to see. Phil? Vegan?! I looks good though. I’m a meat eater but I live right next door to the first vegan restaurant, the first vegan supermarket, and the first 100% vegan clothing shop, in Berlin. It’s hard.
Everybody in my neighbourhood only sells organic stuff, pure juice, and vegetarian grilled sausages. I know. In Germany!
Hey Victoria!
There is always a first time for everything! I’m a meat eater too but have to admit how well made and tasty this was.
I think the vegan spirits are trying to tell you something since they have basically surrounded you over there in Germany! Pass me a brat!
Looks like meat too! I had a terrible experience with a Quorn chicken fillet many years ago, and since then, I’ve been suspicious to anything vegetarian/vegan/no-mooh:) Though recently I discovered tofu, and it’s delicious. No need for meat (even though I’d never abandon my weekend-steak routine)..
Hey Mitzie!
I was a bit suspect too regarding vegan meals but they do it right here. Almost feels as if you are eating meat and everything tasted great. Will I give up steak? Not anytime soon, but I will try this again.
I’m so glad you liked the restaurant! As you know, NYC really is the best place to get vegan food. There and maybe LA. Isn’t Candle Cafe the cafe version of Candle 79?
Hey Holly!
Thanks for dropping by and commenting!
I was pleasantly surprised. I really enjoyed my meal there. Yes, Candle 79 is their other place. Really tasty vegan eats! Will definitely be back,
Did someone say chimichurri? I’m popping in to say a quick hello and am happy to be greeted with this eye porn! MMMMMmmmmmm. Chimichurri sauce is my all-time favorite! Sooo good. This place looks great. 🙂
Hey Brickhouse!
Nothing like some good food porn! Even the vegan type is porn worthy and the food here makes your mouth drool. That Seitan Chimichurri was the bomb!
You almost had me but I just can’t give up bacon, steak, pork…. 🙂
Hey Shelley!
I can’t give up my meats either. Not just yet, but I have to admit they persuaded me here. Delicious vegan food. Worth trying out!
Hey Phil!
I want that sweet potato sandwich right now!
Hey Lisa!
Me too! Get in mah bellah!
Hi Phil, I have to admit I was dying to get back and read this Post first chance I had! Vegan. This place looks adorable and the food looks fantastic. Love Your open mind to try interesting new things!
Hey Peggy!
Glad you liked! Yes, I sometimes try a new food experience. Meat or non-meat as long as it’s tasty!
The idea of vegan doesn’t really appeal to me, but the way you describe it (and the photographs) scream that I should give it a try.
Hey Gary!
I never thought I would like it as much as I did. Glad I gave it a try. Now I want it again.
Kind of sounds like sex!