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Categories: Live/Raw Food, Vegan [Edit]
Neighborhoods: Flatiron, Union Square, GramercyUnion Square (4, 5, 6, L, N, Q, R, W)
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raw food is not for me. i left feeling hungry after three courses and left with a very large bill ($170+ tip), i was a little miffed. the food is tasty, i had the "ravioli" that was really a rosemary cashew chevre sandwiched between two finely cut beets and they give you about 5. It had a tangy, vinegary aftertaste. not bad but i just wasn't wowed. i love fresh fruits and vegetables, i am a vegetarian but i prefer it cooked a little different. not their fault.
so why four stars? one of the employee's ipod played every song i adore. the slits? gang of four! joy division!? fantastic! the wine was unbelievable, the darling waiters were charming and very cute. i guess you have to be a good looking man to work there, handsome waiters everywhere. i felt sorry for all of the men on dates because the girls were blushing. i was amused.
the decor is OK, a little outdated, i noticed a lot of paint chips, scrapes on the walls, a touch up would make a difference. it's pretty dark in the restaurant and the walls are red so those white marks stand out. i may return, i will update.
Can vegan food be fancy? It sure can be. Can vegan food be tasty? Yes. Can vegan food be fancy and tasty? Sometimes. I had my stipulations in going to a high class vegan restaurant, but I'm willing to trying anything once (food that is). It was a typical Tuesday night and the place was rather barren at 7 o'clock, but half an hour later, it was almost a full house.
The appetizers (first course) started out strong, so my friend and I were looking forward to the main courses (second course). Unfortunately, the appetizers out-shined the main dishes, which were nothing like we expected. Going in with an inexperienced vegan palette might have placed me at a disadvantage, but it allowed me to be as objective as possible. Dessert is classified as a third course, but we didn't order any. Some of the flavor and ingredient combinations worked well, and some just clashed. The way the menu described the food made everything sound delicious, too bad only some of the items looked good on paper.
I have to warn you to take the name of the menu items with a grain of salt. The ravioli that my friend ordered should be written as "ravioli" on the menu. It's basically a soft cheese sandwiched between two thin slices of pickled beets. As for me, I ordered the "enchiladas," and there was nothing enchilada about them. The dish would be better used as a spread for crackers rather than an entree. You know when you first eat something, and when it tastes really good, you say, "wow, this is really good!" In this case, when we dug into our main courses, me and my friend looked at each other and we both said, "interesting..." My favorite dish of the night was the green papaya salad, and that was the appetizer.
This type of food isn't for everybody, if you're a full-time carnivore, you're not going to fulfill your meat thirst here. It's going to be hit or miss when it comes to the food, and your palette will either be in for a treat, a shock, or confusion. The place has the atmosphere of fine dining and the food isn't cheap, especially for food that's barely cooked. There's nothing special about the ambiance. Dimmed lights, small votive candle...been there, done that. Going in too hungry might result in searching for a heavier meal someplace else afterward. I left barely satiated and I filled the void in my stomach with a tres leches cake and crack pie from Momofuku Bakery and Milk Bar. The menu seems to be seasonal as 3 out of the 4 items we ordered were not on the online menu, so make your selections when you get to the restaurant.
After a cleanse you have to do what is called "breaking a cleanse," namely follow a couple rules to not freak out your digestive tract. No meat, dairy, or bread for 2-3 days. Of course all I wanted post-cleanse was a meat and cheese plate with some bread from a wine bar.
Instead we headed to Pure for a light dinner. We informed the waiter we had just done a cleanse and he kindly offered us something from their juice bar. No. More. Juices. Please!
We started with the flaxseed, cashew, and macadamia "cheese," which is surprisingly cheese-like. Next we split the enchiladas with corn and avocado. Lastly we had to try their famous ice cream which is all nut-based. It's the preparation more than the ingredients that makes it creamy, apparently it's flash frozen on the premises.
This and two glasses added up to a $92 bill for two, but really we only ate for one. So it's quite expensive to make things taste like dairy w/o the use of dairy. If you can afford the extravagance to go raw, local, and organic, this is the place to do it.
Worst service I have ever received in any restaurant. The food was nothing special and very overpriced. We ended up asking for the check when we got our food for fear that we'd have to wait another 2 hours and we received a nasty glare. There are so many good veggie places in the city, take a pass on this place!
Raw (nothing cooked under 118 degrees) and vegan....I don't know about you but was never the most appealing food choices for me until I found out about Pure Food and Wine.
Local and organic...that's more like me...and I can always appreciate the hardwork farmers go through to raise our food :) Kudos to them!
I was blown away when the hostess sat us outside in their CUTE and romantic garden...with lights and trees hovering over us...I felt like I was in a movie, it also didn't help when I noticed Christy Turlington sitting 2 tables away from us. :)
ok..breathe ReyRey...
Came with 3 others and all ordered the Chef's tasting menu. $69/pp with 5 surprise courses for each person where every person gets something different...it came with 2 amuse bouches so really there was 7 courses/person :).
So 5 x 4 = 20....we all shared with one another so I guess I tried over 20 different things that night...almost their whole menu :) #_#
The waiter was very nice, and told us all about his favorites...sometimes a little slow but nonetheless we were taken care of. ^_^
Memorable dishes include: the coconut noodles, stuffed squash flowers, zucchini ravioli, and the DESSERTS!! How is that filling inside the dark chocolate cover not ice cream? Sooo creamy! I loved the raspberry pearls on my friend's plate and enjoyed the strawberry shortcake decadence very much so!
MMmmm....I never thought I would be so satisfied with raw and vegan food :0 I loved being surprised!
Will definitely come again! ^_@
....spoke to the bartender for a few minutes asking him about his wine list...again: Organic, biodynamic, sustainable wines from all over the world! :)
A great date place for the healthy and adventurous.
It's an expensive raw food restaurant tucked below ground level in the Gramercy Park area. When we arrived for dinner, the place was packed and very, very loud.
For appetizers we ordered the Asparagus Sushi Rolls with Mushrooms and the House Olives with Fennel and Orange. Both were delicious.
For the second course I ordered the White Corn Tamales and my date had the Lasagna. The tamales were small but very flavorful. They are about the size of two small fingers. The dish also came with a side of carrots and sliced avocado. That part was a little bit eh. The lasagna however lived up to all positive reviews.
The service is slow (raw food does take time to prepare) so don't arrive starving. Also not impressed by the waiter, but that's just my one time experience going there. He forgot to tell us about the specials and never checked on us. Not a big deal.
I am now eating a lot of raw foods, so I really appreciated dining here. But I can also see where some people feel that there's too much hype.
My first raw experience. Expensive but very much worth it.
I took my girlfriend here for her birthday, and I must say it's an intimate, impressive setting for any special occasion. The service is very attentive and the atmosphere laid back but classy.
We had the 'cheese' plate, which was a selection of soy and other nut cheese from around the world. It was so good we ordered two of them.
My girlfriend had the 'lasagna' which she usually tries at every vegan place we eat at. This raw version was made with an excellent pesto, sun dried tomatoes and pinoli nuts. I had the thai coconut noodles which came in an awesome red curry sauce.
We had the peach cobbler for dessert which was excellent - everything on their dessert menu looked awesome, and if we weren't so full I'm sure we would have tried more.
For anyone on the fence on trying raw food, I highly endorse popping your cherry at Pure.
When non-food obsessed friends (i.e. people who think photographing food is weird) volunteer to select the restaurant, I tend to get nervous. My internal thoughts/responses: How did they find this place? No, I wasn't aware that AM NY had a restaurant section. Citysearch...?!
So when the email announcing that we'd be dining at Pure F&W arrived, I immediately hopped on Yelp.
1. Vegan.
2. Raw Food.
Sigh. Gwyneth Paltrow food for sea monkeys.
However, encouraged by the 4 star rating, I began culling through the 100+ reviews to figure out my order strategy.
Step 1: Immediately filter reviews with:
- "OMG, SOOoooo YuMMy! My boyfriend..."
- "OMG, SOOoooo pretty! My bachelorette party..."
- Over abuse of the exclamation point. !!!!!!!!!!!! (see how off putting that is?)
- Ancillary details that add nothing: "hot hostess," and "Jimmy Fallon sat next to us he totally almost saw us I think!"
Step 2: Zero in on the must order entrees; in this case, the Corn tamales, Beet Ravioli, Lasagna. Pre-research - done!
Upon arrival, we were informed there was a drink special: $6 for a hefty glass of crisp white sangria. Nice. I'm grateful we ordered a round b/c as we discovered, the 7pm cutoff time was strictly enforced. (7:02pm request was denied). I appreciated that the wine wasn't overly sweet, although one person deemed it "not sweet enough." Subjective preference.
Time to Order:
"Lasagna, beet ravioli, or corn tamales," I advised our table. "I did research." (smile like a nerd)
Aftermath:
- Lasagna ($24): Imagine 2 fat slices of heirloom tomatoes (farmer market fresh) and thinly sliced zucchini sandwiched between hummus thick trio of pastes: pesto, pinenut, and a completely overpowering super-concentrated tomato. Sculpturally constructed, this Jenga tower of raw food was a bit cumbersome to eat, but the novel flavors/textures maintained my interest. Unlike the...
- Corn Tamales ($24): Essentially 5lbs of pureed cashew butter trapped in a corn husk. It would have been a tasty appetizer or even an amuse, but as an entree, le boring after 5 minutes as there was zero flavor variation.
- Beet Ravioli ($24) Holy smokes, food for Smurfs! 3 tiny ravioli the size of mini Chef Boyardee bites. That's $8 per piece. I felt terrible for the friend and even more terrible after she asks if we'd be interested in going to K-Town for Chigae (stew).
Conclusion: If you're Gwyneth Paltrow, a Smurf, a squirrel, or a Vegan/Raw Foodist, you'll probably like Pure F&W. If not, I'd exercise caution for you and your wallet.
I can't believe I didn't write a review on this! I thought I had!
One of my top fave restaurants in NYC (albeit pricey). The nut butters/nut cheeses that they have are excellent. For example - we ordered the cheese platter and we had brasil nut, macademia nut and cashew nut "cheese". SO GOOD!. I ordered the special of the day - the sliders. One of them - jalapenos, was way too hot for me, my mouth burned off, I swear! My friend ordered the squash blossoms, which were yum yum yum town! I guess in general I am easily impressed by raw/vegan foods, so maybe I am easy to please hence the five star rating? Regardless, our apps and main dishes were really tasty.
For dessert, we ordered the passion fruit tart - which was also excellent and amazing!
I can't wait to go back!
Ah! Pure Food and Wine your delicious raw food and amazing mojitos have me wanting to come back again and again. Food was amazing, had the Heirloom tomato lasagna. Both indoor and outdoor seating were beautiful. Friendly attentive and knowledgeable servers. All together a wonderful dining experience. Vegan Heaven
While the food was interesting, I was definitely poisoned by my dinner. I had basically the same experience as Jezzie X. - the stomachache, the bloating, the discomfort - after my dinner at Pure Food & Wine, so I don't think it was just her. Now, nothing here was bad, per se. In fact much of it was interesting, a lot of it was tasty. But the more I thought about it on the way home, as my stomachache got worse and worse, the more I realized that I think everything would have been *better* had it been cooked, made with real dairy or gluten instead of vegan substitutes.
For example: we ordered the nut cheese platter. I had no idea what nut cheese was. I didn't even know you could make "cheese" from nuts, so clearly this was something we had to try. Also, a cheese platter is always good for sharing. It came with three different types of cashew cheese - one mustard flavor (I think), one dill flavor and maybe the other was wine? I'm not really sure. Truthfully they weren't that distinct from each other. They weren't bad - they were spreadable and interesting and came on little rosemary crackers (I don't know what they actually were, since crackers would have to be baked) and on the side there were blueberries and mache. We also got the heirloom tomato and eggplant caponata, which was good and straightforward. Maybe not so interesting, but solid and tasty.
For entrees, I got the stuffed squash blossoms. The blossoms were stuffed with a non-dairy herb "cheese", and were atop a bed of marinated heirloom tomato and shaved fennel. This was pretty good, but the squash itself was raw and while that's fine, I actually think squash is better cooked. Now this isn't really the fault of the restaurant - I know I was at a raw food place - but I'm just saying it wasn't transcendent. It didn't make me realize that food is as good raw as it is cooked. I just felt like it was kind of a poor substitute for what it could have been (now if you stuffed squash blossoms with ricotta and had cooked those zucchini and summer squash - this dish would have been great!)
K. got the corn mole tamales, which everyone on Yelp raves about. It was interesting... but also really nutty and very, very filling. I didn't love it as much as everyone else here has. It seems like Pure Food & Wine relies on nuts *a lot* to make their dishes rich. You don't realize you're eating nuts because you're eating "cheese" or a "tamale" but it's nuts again and again. And I think that's why I got the stomach ache. If I ate an entire container of cashews at home, I'd get a stomachache. I think I probably did the same thing last night and just didn't know I was doing it.
For dessert we got the Reisling-soaked apricots with chamomile crème-anglaise (I'm not sure what non-dairy substitute was used for this, since they don't use tofu or anything like it) and an almond cookie... which in truth was more like a hard almond paste (remember - no baking). The dish was interesting and the first bite definitely exploded in your mouth. But then it quickly became overwhelming. I'm glad I shared it between three people, because I couldn't have eaten it on my own.
I don't mean to be a hater on the fact that it's raw. I knew what I was getting myself into. It's just I think vegan and raw food places in general shouldn't endeavor to make things that require cooking or dairy. Plenty of delicious food is raw, but maybe you don't want to bother with the ice cream or the crème angalise or the cheese...
If you are a vegetarian or a vegan, I think this is a very interesting place with great wines, and a lovely outdoor patio. And so I'm giving it a solid three stars because it isn't that it's bad. I went because I like good food, I'm not a vegetarian but I don't think food HAS to include meat all the time, and I wasn't totally satisfied with the food for the amount I paid (we paid $80 p/p).
And I just can't in good conscience give more than three stars to a place that caused such stomach pains after my meal.
Let me start by saying that I am not usually a fan of raw foods and definitely not a vegan but I totally dig this place. Expensive but you really pay for the science and experience of this place. Each dish is carefully thought out and "perfect". It taste like what they wanted and what they want you to experience.
I found the food amazing and fascinating. The taste was well balanced and the desserts left me in awe. I kept wondering "how did they do that without cooking it?"
I wish I could give 2.5 stars. For the price that it charges, Pure Food & Wine is entirely not worth it.
The multiple experiences I've had there include tasty desserts of almond cookies - which get like a 4 out of 5. Their coconut lime tart which gets a 4 out of 5 too. I had their chocolate/caramel bite of something and that was like 3 out of 5.
When I went to eat there, I was under the impression that things could be made without onions/garlic or didn't contain it to begin with. Since these 2 ingredients are so potent, one would figure in a non-cooked environment, they'd leave them out.
But, alas, they did not. I had their guacamole and rosemary cracker combo which hurt my stomach a few hours later and I wished I hadn't had it at all. I've had one of their $8 juices which was not at all good. Liquiteria so wins in that department...
It's a lot of hype, a lot of price and not enough punch to keep you coming back for more. Sorry Pure. You're only good for some desserts that are way too expensive for the average person's daily income.
Pure Food and Wine is a vegetarian restaurant, that follows the raw foods method (and is completely vegan, I believe). I was excited to come here, but honestly, was less impressed by the experience than I have been at several other vegetarian restaurants. The outdoor garden is very nice, and if you do come here, I suggest the outdoor seating. The wait staff were nice enough, but they had a certain snobbiness, like they were doing you a favor by waiting on your table. I had to stare down a waiter to take my drink order while I waited for the rest of my party to arrive.
We decided to share appetizers as a table. We had an eggplant puree, which was yummy and tried the Plate of Assorted Cultured Dr. Cow Tree Nut Cheeses and Rosemary Crisps. None of us were aware that nuts could produce cheese (although after thinking about it realized that soy cheese is quite common, but no soy is served at Pure Food) and none of us were sure that we liked the nut-cheese. Really, it was quite mild and had a nice nutty/buttery flavor. It just wasn't really that special tasting.
For entrees, we each ordered individually, but ended up with the White Corn Tamales with Raw Cacao Mole and Squash Blossoms Stuffed with Spring Onion and Herb Cheese. Both were interesting and enjoyable, but again, we were not floored.
Pure Food and Wine is a fun place to try a "food movement" and see how you figure into it. I would say that there is tastier (and just as interesting) alternative vegetarian cuisine out there, but not necessarily serving all vegan and raw food. This was an enjoyable experience, but I doubt I'd go to lengths to come back, unless someone I knew was dying to give it a try.
It's a good thing that Pure Food and Wine is so expensive, because the food here is RICH! A LOT of nut creams, but not in an overpowering way. Nut cheeses and nut creams are easy to f*** up, but these chefs know what they are doing.
I went with two friends and ordered the tasting menu, highly recommended for first timers. And while the entrees and appetizers are tasting portions, the desserts for some reason, are regular sized. 5 courses of the most beautifully decadent plates, (that's 15 different dishes, artistically presented and full of flavor, to be shared amongst 3 people) then followed up with huge portions of raw ice cream and raw cacao. :) Makes you drunk with raw goodness.
The service was impeccable, ambiance was cozy and romantic, and I like that it's sort of the raw mecca of NY. You can always spot some of your favorite raw foodies in there.
I will remember every flavor.
Came here and had the tasting menu, I am a longtime vegan and my partner is a lifelong omnivore. We both left feeling like we had one of the best meals we've had in NY. The presentation and service were top notch.
The atmosphere is very nice, lots of rich woods with a good homey feel.
The waitstaff were very friendly and knowledgeable about the foods and wines they offered and everyone seemed happy to be working! And if nothing else, Andrew is a superstar!
sit outside, get five course tasting menu and a pitcher of sangria, and enjoy one of the loveliest new york dining experiences around. simply unmatched.
and for those that hate on the heaviness - I can relate. just stay away from dishes loaded with nut cheese and you will be happy. my fave order, besides tasting menu, is one each of collard green salad rolls, nori rolls, and choose a special salad...all three are light, delicious, affordable. followed by desserts and you have a perfect meal for two.
beautiful space, waitstaff, food - simply wonderful.
Pure is interesting but for the price a little disappointing. I love the idea of an all raw restaurant, but I guess there is only so much that our inner "gatherer" can do without the "hunter" or the discovery of fire.
I went with the tasting menu. Although I was delighted with the gazpacho, I was totally underwhelmed by the vegetable carpaccio. The wine pairings were solid but not spectacular. And the desert I felt like I could have done without (kill me, but I love me some processed sugar).
$69 for a 5-course tasting menu in NYC is a pretty good deal though, and you walk away feeling healthy rather than like a glutton.
- What's all this fuss about not heating the food above 118 degrees Farenheit?As a respectable Indian amateur cook, I believe in boiling the hell out of everything. Kills the germs, you see.
- And what's this about charging us 36 dollars per item? Okay maybe it's not 36 but you get the idea.
- And, did anyone tell you that novelty != deliciocity? (how novel of me to have coined that word right there)
However, you've redeemed yourself through your tacos and ravioli, your generous usage of nuts and nut paste in everything, and your uber-creamy desserts. Rich things, yum.
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I was here with a couple of friends a few weeks ago, and between the three of us I think we tried pretty much everything on the menu. If you're going, I suggest taking a couple of people along and getting the tasting menu and share with each other. Communal dining ahoy! Don't get the wine - too expensive.
Pure Food and Wine is the kind of place I would definitely try once, and stop at that one time.
Great meal, classy atmosphere.
Go with a couple of friends so you can try more on the menu. At this price I won't be a frequent patron, but make the most if you go.
We liked the zucchini pasta and the squash blossoms but the best was the beet ravioli.
Desserts are amazing - the peach cobbler had the tastiest freshest peaches.
Minus one star because I want a BIT more flavor and the staff was harsh towards my friend who brought non vegan cupcakes in for my bday. Granted it's a vegan restauraunt and she prob should have called but nonetheless the reaction was a little high and mighty 'how dare you bring in non vegan food even inside these hallowed walls'.
For the most part, I'm a person who "goes out" to eat...not someone for whom the verb "dining" is an appropriate description. I certainly don't seek out preciously plated, frou frou fare. But as a burgeoning aficionado of raw food cuisine, I had been eager to try this restaurant for a while. So on a recent visit to New York I allowed myself to indulge in the artistry of the raw food preparations of Pure Food and Wine.
Feeling a food high even a couple days later, I can absolutely say that, if you have the ability and inclination to treat yourself, Pure Food and Wine is worth it. Even a beans-and-rice type of girl like myself can connect with her inner food snob and appreciate the aesthetics and sensuality of a meal like this.
We started with two first courses: the cheese plate and the scallops. The cheeses were delectable, unlike any other raw cheeses I have ever had (which are usually more like cheese spreads) having the textures of a semi soft cheese like gouda, and even had hardened rinds. My favorite was infused with dill. My friend who was new to raw foods (and a true foodie) was quite amazed. They were served with crackers that were rich and crunchy, not simply a bunch of undigestible whole flaxseeds stuck together as some raw crackers are. Both paired well with the marinated peach slices which accompanied them. The scallops were actually mushrooms, but marinated in such a way that they had the texture and richness that you could enjoy them slowly, which being only 3 on a plate, you'll want to do.
For an entree I had the beet ravioli with goat cheese with saffron sauce. Delicious. My sister had the sushi which was actually a first course but served just as well for an entree...in fact it was more substantial than my selection, which our server kindly warned me was quite light. (Because the portion sizes are inconsistent, sharing is the way to go.) The "rice" was actually made of pine nuts and jicama in a way that approximated white rice so well that my sister forgot at first that they were impostors of that grain. My other friend had a sunchoke gratin that was slightly warmed, served with mushrooms and some other vegetable garnishes. All of the plates had garnishes (mine had an olive tapenade) that were divine. The gratin was very satisfying, and had a comforting carbohydrate quality that I often find lacking in raw foods.
On to the final course: dessert. The ice cream trio is definitely one of the best desserts I have ever had in my life. It consisted of three ice cream bars. The ice cream itself is made of young coconut meat and cashew milk. One of them had a cardamom flavor that was delectable. All were covered in a chocolate coating so dark that you'll know in one bite it's no Klondike bar (though one looked like a mini version of it.). One of the bars had a cookie-like layer as well as a layer of amaretto cream that practically made me tear up. Another had an edible "cone", as if you were eating a grown up version of a drumstick from the ice cream truck. Ahh, being a grown up aint so bad, at times like that.
Our other dessert was a little less memorable...the blueberry ice cream was the best component of it. It was supposed to be some kind of lavender infused tart but the lavender was just too subtle for me to taste and the crumbles a bit spare. It was very good, just paled in comparison the ice cream trio, which is generous enough in portion that two would be more than satisfied to share it.
All in all with tip our meal for 3 was about $180. Note that we did not have wine so that kept the price significantly lower than what one might spend there. For my budget, this is a pretty penny to spend on a meal...but I enjoyed every bite.
Disclaimer: if you're one of the millions of Americans that suffer from a tree-nut or peanut allergy, or one of the hundreds of millions of Americans that voluntarily partake in the nutritional / recreational consumption of flesh and/or animal flesh, DON'T EAT HERE.
Unless, of course, you're like me; allergic carnivore imbued with a vegan, an occasion, and glorious sunshine and clear pre-summer skies under which to sip Pure's sangria in their devastatingly pretty little back garden.
Then, you'll have to settle on the lone nut-free starter ("buttered" lettuce latticed with "chocolate" sauce) and entree (Thai "curry" "noodles"). But, to frame the experience in perspective - I must admit that the assignment - make "real" gourmet food with only raw, organic, vegan-friendly elements - is tough, and that what I ate was reasonably tasty and certainly very beautiful considering it was really just shredded parsnip, carrots and cucumbers topped with a dollop of coconut milk.
Then again, dropping $50 / head to munch on rabbit food (which later had to be supplemented by fried crap and ice cream at the Heartland Brewery) is a really, really disgustingly yuppylicious.
While it's extremely pricey, it's worth a visit. The menu contains lots of culinary surprises and new experiences, and most everything tasted fresh and healthy with a careful mixture of flavors in each dish. The one exception: the burger. Don't order it. In my experience, when someone orders a burger (raw and veggie or not) they are looking for a sandwich, to be eaten with one's hands. This version can only be eaten with a knife and fork, in pieces, which left me unable to get any sense of burger flavors in combination (despite the lettuce, ketchup, mustard and pickles on the plate). It was unsatisfying.
The cocktails are generally fantastic. The white sangria is amazing, and the sake cocktail with fresh strawberries and fresh basil was absolutely stunning (garnished with an orchid blossom).
The gorgeous patio was full when my partner and I visited, but the inside atmosphere was relaxing, romantic and even borderline glam. Not to mention, the neighborhood is cute! All the more reason to stroll over here on a summer evening.
The staff were friendly, knowledgeable and non-pretentious. My partner gave me a small surprise party here on my birthday, and the staff was clearly in on the surprise. She really appreciated their help. I've only ever had one encounter with an unhelpful server, but I suspect he was the exception.
All in all a great place with tasty food - but maybe too pricey for the everyday. A great special occasion spot.
I think this may be my new favorite restaurant. While it's extremely pricey, it's worth a visit.… Read more »
WOW!
I cant believe these drinks are alcoholic, they taste like health juice-spritzers!
I cant believe this food is 100% vegan and isn't cooked!
I cant believe these wines are organic!
I cant believe I'm spending $50+pp and have to grab a slice on my way home!
This isn't your run of the mill vegetarian. And certainly not the typical raw/vegan. This is haute vegan cuisine. And it comes with a haute price. Any foodie must try Pure Food & Wine at least once but even its most devoted fans are going to have a hard time footing the bill.
The creativity with minimal processing is amazing. The dishes are all delicious although some are certainly more satisfying than others. The Lasagna is a signature dish. Its quiet tasty but there are better choices to show off their talents. The use of nuts is incredible and the Mexican inspired dishes are delicious. The Indian inspired are good but no better than any one of a handful of Indian vegetarian places in the city.
The decor is comfortable. The garden is beautiful. Service is very good.
I'm a fan but the price keeps it from getting a perfect score.
I went here on Valentine's day when they were doing a special pre-fix 5-course special.
To start was an olive truffle appetizer, which was quite flavorful and went quite well with our bottle of organic sonoma valley wine.
Next came a mache salad, served in an edible cucumber bowl. The light vinaigrette was sweet and delightful.
After that came an avocado soup, which had the consistency of a gazpacho, but the flavor of guacamole. Sounds weird, but it was delicious.
For the main course was a mushroom truffle that was phenomenally flavorful. Each bite was better than the one before it.
For dessert was a trio of chocolate dishes, each uniquely chocolately and wonderfully paired with a raspberry and lychee soda.
Overall the food was delicious, wonderfully plated, and unique for every bite.
Love, love, love the food. Creative and yummy. Some people are apparently put off by the food being not "literal" enough i.e. it shouldn't be called "ravioli" if no flour or cheese BUT it does look like a ravioli and the flavor is great.
The four star rather than five star rating is because I have left a bit hungry a time or two (and after big tab) and because EVERY time I call for a reservation I get put on hold multiple times, with "I'm sorry"...but come on, it shouldn't be so difficult.
Celebrated a friends 40th birthday at Pure Food and Wine. Her request was to eat at a "raw" restaurant. The food was over the top! Our server walked us through the menu and helped us make our choices. We chose the zucchini and local hothouse Tomato Lasagna (their signature dish), Enchiladas with Pumpkin seeds and Raw Cacao Mole, and Sweet Pickled Beet and Rosemary Cashew Chevre Ravioli. Each dish was bursting with clean, pure flavor. The portions are quite generous. For dessert we shared a mint sundae with mint chocolate ice cream and chocolate cookies. YUM! The only complaint: we ate here on our last night in NYC and didn't get a chance to go back for more tasty treats. This is one swanky spot not to be missed!
OK, hear is the deal: if you are a raw foodie, or even a vegan or vegetarian who loves raw food, you'll love this place. (Disclosure: I'm vegan, have been for 18 years, eat only raw food sometimes.) The dishes are exquisite and lovingly made. However, this restaurant is extremely expensive, and the portions are very tiny. My wife, a vegetarian, wanted to go here for her birthday. The portions were so small, that she literally cried, and she's not overweight: she's actually thin.
Luckily, for all it's shi-shi-ness, the atmosphere is lovely, and the waiters and staff are very friendly. The wine is excellent as well.
If you're looking for food you can sink your teeth into, this is not the place. If you want something oh-so precious and exquisite, and price is no option, this is the place for you.
I was visiting NY and my cousin wanted to take me here. The food was good for being raw and vegan. The service was not so good and the tables were too close together. No privacy.
Again, if 1/2 stars were available, I'd give 3.5 stars.
This place was great; however, I usually 'give' my stars based on price and what one expects for that price, ambiance and service.
I was quite happy and surprised at the size of the backyard- this was my first time and it was a celebratory meal on a nice warm evening. The atmosphere was perfect- honestly, it doesn't get any better: mellow lighting, not crazy loud, comfy tables and chairs, etc.
We waited for table for a little bit- no biggie, we got there around 8:45pm. After a 'no show' reservation, we got seated. It took a while to take our order, and since they have wine, we didn't bring our own. The wine here is not cheap by any means. I don't know what the mark up is, but it is pricey- the selection is large and our wine was great. Just a bit expensive, that's all. Actually the mixed drinks as well were pricey.
For an app we ordered a asparagus sushi- it was awesome. For our dinners we got the following: the Lasagna (had to!), a Caesar Salad and I got a Roasted Mushroom meal. The lasagna, hands down, was the best selection. The Caesar was really good as well (my friend wasn't that hungry) and my mushroom plate was 'okay'. Mind you, i LOVE mushrooms more than anything. This plate, in my opinion, was just a bit overseasoned. The mushrooms were pretty good, but the pairing of broccoli with cashew cheese was slightly on the salty side. The first few bites were really good. REALLY good. But after a few, there was just too much of the cheese and the saltiness kind of got annoying.
For dessert we requested macaroons, which they brought a TON of... along with some hot fudge with vanilla ice cream. The latter was AWESOME. We also ordered the Strawberry Shortcake- this was AMAZING... the paired ice cream I didn't like at all (was it creme fraiche?) but the cake was really tasty! I'm not a huge fan of (coconut kind) macaroons so I had about 1/2 of one (they're tiny) and put it down.
Overall, this was a great experience- would I go back? Probably if I felt like spending some cash. I actually thought that the portions weren't bad- because the service was slow, we actually took our time to eat and weren't rushing. We went starving and walked out pleasantly full... weird. But between three of us, we did polish off two desserts....so that might have something to do with it....
The final bill wasn't as bad as I expected- only inflated because of the wine..desserts are definitely steep: $16 each! But I don't dis them on this as I'm sure the preparation is crazy hard.
Overall, great experience, just a tiny bit let down because I expected more from what I've heard over the past few years. It was REALLY REALLY good, just not AWESOME (with the exception of the strawberry shortcake, of course!) Go when you have time though- our dinner was about three hours (slower than normal per my friend, who had been here before.)
In my opinion, everyone should experience this place at least once.... A 'must try.'
The hostesses were very hot supermodel-esque and quite intimidating. But it was a beautiful balmy night and we sat out in the lovely garden with some very friendly and accommodating waiters/waitresses serving us.
I have to say though, after this meal, my stomach was tossing and turning and I felt so nauseous and stomach upset/indigestion - all these nasty feelings I haven't felt for a long time, ever since I ate some bad strawberries. I have discovered that my stomach does not like the raw ingredients in the food and I am probably intolerant to something in there, perhaps the rich cashew cheeses or the sauces or something. I mean, I eat organic and vegan a lot but this is the first time I've tried raw vegan, and the first time I'm eating all these "nut cheeses" which the merely macrobiotic/vegan diets do not necessarily involve.
With that said, however, even as I am typing this with an unsteady bloated stomach, I am giving this restaurant five stars. I have to separate my individual reaction from the purely objective appreciation of this fantastic restaurant. My friend and I split an appetizer and a dessert and we each got an entree. We got a tomato based appetizer with pine nuts, olives, and truffle oil, among others, and the flavors just explodes in your mouth. Then I got the often-raved about corn tamale with raw cocoa mole and avocado with cashew nut cheese, and my friend got the beet ravioli. Her dish was probably 100000x better than mine, if that was possible. I thought MY dish was great until I tried her. The corn tamale was excellent but the thing was, I just wasn't that big of a fan of that yogurty fermented after-taste of the corn tamale. Now that I think about it, the nut cheese were incorporated everywhere within the corn tamale and the ravioli and the sauces...rich, rich ingredients but you would never guess it.
However, the highlight of the meal is undoubtedly the dessert. The riesling soaked apricots with vanilla chamomile ice cream and shortbread - A LITTLE TASTE OF HEAVEN. It was worth every single cent. Indeed - those 10 bites of the dessert was worth the whole meal. I have never tasted dessert that was so light and tantalizingly explosive in your mouth. Sweet - but not in a sugary way. Tangy - but not in an identifiable fruity way. O.M.G.
I am echoing someone else here that said next time, they are going just for dessert and wine. I wish so bad I can try the other entrees and appetizers - but I think my stomach cannot digest the nut cheeses, unfortunately, that is such a central ingredient in almost all the dishes. The quality of the food is top-notch - and by the time we left the restaurant we were giddy and ecstatic over this truly special meal.
The outdoor area is exactly where I want to be on a warm summer night in the city.
I am not raw, but I'm usually vegan and always vegetarian. Usually, I'm not a fan of raw food but this place was a good exception. The biggest surprise was how good the raw cheese was! Second biggest surprise was the amazing desert, a mint cookie sundae. I got the tomato zuchinni lasagna for my main and wasn't that impressed (which is why there aren't 5 stars on here) but the wine and the AWESOME outdoor seating, with greenery, rich colors, candles and hanging lights more than made up for it.
To clarify: My 4 stars are for the desserts which are really delicious. The ice creams and sorbets in particular have great flavor and unctuousness, and you would never know they were raw, vegan + free of refined sugar unless someone told you.
That said, I wouldn't return for the savory food. None of things I tasted was as delicious as it looked on the plate. It was a bit disappointing, but thank god the desserts made up for that!
Way too expensive. They did a good job with the raw food, but how much could it cost the restaurant to serve nut-based cheeses and vegetables that they don't even have to cook?! It's a nice trend right now, but I believe you can eat healthy in a much less expensive restaurant, even in Manhattan! Not a fan!
I'm a proud meat-eater and I was still amazed by the food. Granted, I'm no "foodie" when it comes to vegetarian restaurants (a friend who was interning there basically dragged us to the place), so I have no basis for comparison. But nevertheless -- I was really impressed. I came from a family that tried to be strictly "healthy" - aka no red meat, lots of vegetables and fruits, and no offense to mom, but this restaurant opened my eyes to what's possible with vegetables.
I'm giving this 5 stars just for the creativeness of the dishes. I'm not sure what dishes some of the reviewers got, but I have to say the flavors are RICH - almost too rich, but I don't see that as a bad thing, especially for a carnivore going into a full meal without meat. I guess it helped that the girl that brought me there was explaining how the dishes were done (lots of ground nuts for texture). I had the lasagna, and it was surprisingly filling and tasty, it really didn't taste like a vegetable dish at all to me.
The only thing that was a miss was the dessert - it was some kind of indian ice cream that tasted a bit funny but what do you expect if you can't use milk? I'd take a star off for that but overall, everything was tasty and inventive to say the least, so I'm keeping it at 5.
I still like me my steak/burgers/fried chicken - but if I ever think of going for a vegan dinner (which would be a rarity) I would go here.
Being so pricey, this is a special occasion restaurant for my bf and I. We've only been here twice, but I really enjoyed the food very much both times. If only it weren't so expensive, but I understand that a lot of work goes into the preparation of raw food.
The first time we came here, we had the tasting course, just to be able to try a little of everything. The bf's favorite was the tamale dish, mine was biryani. The other standout was the dessert, the trio of ice cream. Our second time here, he ordered the tamales again, since he hadn't forgotten how good they were. I switched it up and had the lasagna, which was pretty good, but the tamale was definitely better. We finished off with the classic sundae, which was absolutely delicious. You have to order the sundae! Oh, and we started with the sushi rolls, which were surprisingly filling. Actually, from both of my experiences here, I was surprised to be as full as I was, but it was a very different full; a lighter full and not a feeling I've ever experience before. I'm guessing it's from all the ground nuts they used in a lot of the dishes.
All in all, I've enjoyed most of the food here, and definitely gives you an appreciation for the food, knowing that it's all raw. The only two negatives I would have to say about this place is of course the pricing, and the NOISE. I wish they could do something about dampening the sound in there, it's just ridiculous to even try to hold a conversation in there.
Still, I'll definitely be back, and would love to eat in the beautiful garden outside that many have mentioned.
My sister lives in NYC.
I'm a foodie and she's a vegetarian.
These two worlds don't often coincide.
We both found happiness at Pure Food and Wine.
Divine.
I didn't even miss the meat (and I love me some steak, yes indeedy)
All right...would you guys still be my friend if I told you this lover of braised beef ate VEGAN?
Of course you would because I'ma give it to you straight with no chaser:
Best friend who is currently vegan had this restaurant at the top of her list for a while, so I happily obliged because I too - being open minded and kindhearted - wanted to be green/vegan.
So first of all, the restaurant is beautiful. Absolutely a date place. That, and a place where a lot of chic people eat. Dark red walls, candlelight everywhere, two-and-a-half hour wait at 7pm on a Saturday (What!! Never experienced that in my life, not even at Gramercy.).
So, the appetizers were pretty good - my friend had some sort of Asian-inspired springroll/dumpling, and I had pecan mustard stuffed cremini mushrooms, which were actually fantastic. But that's where the buck stopped. Entrees were horrible. Friend had heirloom tomato stuffed with anise and sunflower, and I had some sort of tostada which ended up being more like a bitter-tasting fiasco. The only good part of my entree was the delicious avocado. I ain't paying $26 just to enjoy some avocado, know what I mean?
Anyway, my recommendation is: Don't go unless you're looking to be seen.
Our friend H said the funniest thing...
Look at that table next to us
"The Ice Princess" and 3 Wall St Dudes -
Guess who's idea it was to eat here?
H that's Sarma --she's the owner and the Steak Mc Lovin' Guys are "potential investors"! hee hee hee
Outta this world we ordered:
First Course
2 Cheese Plate - creamy cheese & pate (love this one)
1 Salsify Fettucini -black truffle $26
Second Course $24-$29
1 Tamale -mostly cashews, raw mole was elegant and light
1 Mash greens, mushrooms, tapenade, candied kumquat (excellent)
3 Salads -great dressing
2 Signature Lasagnas
Ran out of time for desserts but the Cabernet Franc was perfect with the entrees.
Surprised the restaurant was completely booked. The temp was hot and stuffy in the main room we usually dine in the outside space (it's really fun & zen in the warmer months).
I was looking for Dhrumil "Dru" (We Like It Raw website) a regular but wasn't present.
This place gets better and better -Very innovative Modern Cuisine!
BTW -- Leo M. the Classic Sundae was on the menu last night.
Pure Food and Wine will make a good chunk of change vanish, but noshing on the Creamy Cauliflower Samosas with Banana Tamarind Sauce makes me beg for them to take another $13 from my surrendering hands. My bf gets the Marinated Shiitake and Avocado Sushi Rolls, also $13, which are brilliant (the delicious "rice" is made from pine nuts and jicama). As I eat my plate of White Corn Tamales with Raw Cacao Mole I forget why I ever thought it was a good idea to cook food.
Unfortunately I don't care much for their signature Zucchini and Roma Tomato Lasagna, but I'm not too keen on tomatoes. The last time I was there I tried some "noodle" dish with cashew cream and truffles and found it hard to eat (it's not on the menu anymore), but I've never been disappointed with a single appetizer I had or stolen from a friend.
Neighborhood: East Village
Category: Live/Raw Food
Neighborhood: Harlem
Category: Vegetarian
Neighborhood: Upper East Side
Category: Vegetarian
Neighborhood: Upper East Side
Category: Vegetarian
Neighborhood: Chelsea
Category: Vegan
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