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  • 5
  • Exquisite vegan dining

The moment you walk into this restaurant, you know you've reached the pinnacle of fine vegan dining. The lighting, the decor, the tables, the chairs, the staff, the kitchen and the plates of food passing you by as you gawk. The reason I consider Candle 79 to be at the top of the vegan dining scene is simply because of the attention to detail from start to finish in every course. Really though, it's probably because of the phenomenal plated desserts made in house. It is a rarity to have vegan restaurants trained and talented enough in their staff's abilities and chef's capabilities to make time for such luxurious vegan creations. It's not just frozen dessert out of a container or tofu cheesecake. Here, it's housemade ice creams and seasonal sorbets. It's fruit desserts with fresh fruit and well seasoned crusts and/ or crumble. It's decadently smooth and rich chocolate based desserts that don't make you wish for real dessert- it is as real as it gets here. The other course that I always find essential for fine vegan dining is the salad selection. Here, they separate appetizers from salads! Yes! This is what I feel is the right way to go- salad is it's own vegan course! Appetizers are small bites to be shared! Guacamole timbale bite or two per person, then one or two bites of another appetizer, then a kale or arugula or spinach or mesclun based salad with nuts, seeds, fresh seasonal vegetables and legumes. Done. I also appreciate that their salads could serve as a meal for those with smaller appetites. The entrees are delicious, but I'm usually waiting for dessert and just going through the motions of eating to reach that goal. Don't get me wrong, they have delectable choices including a daily pasta, seitan dishes, spaghetti and wheatballs, a rice or couscous or quinoa dish, a live/raw dish and a few other tasty dishes to highlight the season's bounty. They also have beverages galore to quench anyone's thirst. Some of them can serve as courses themselves. An aperitif or cordial, coffee or cappuccino, juice or smoothie, or just a beer- you're covered. Also, just remember that the staff is knowledgeable beyond the menu, which doesn't mark common allergens or foods to be avoided. There are plenty of options if you avoid gluten or soy or nuts, just ask. The staff is attentive and patient, waiting to clear courses when you look done, and waiting to bring new courses after clearing the prior course. Order happily and heartily, but still, you'll be back!


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