Last month I turned 46. My husband asked where he could take me for dinner to celebrate my birthday. He rattled off the usual joints. We live close to New York City, where there are tons of vegan options, but in Westchester County, there are few vegan-only options, mostly “fast” food (Andy’s & Mrs. Greens and Jolo’s Kitchen). You only turn 46 once, so I wanted something a bit more “upscale.” I turned to Google and hit a site that led me to Haven in Pleasantville, NY. I perused the online menu which indicated “vegan friendly” on several items. Dave called to make a reservation to confirm that they, in fact, offered vegan options. “Absolutely!”
Truth be told, I spent most of my birthday in pajamas and would have been just as happy to take a warm bath and change into a new pair of PJ’s and chill for the evening. (Anyone else love those weekend days when you never leave the house?) I’m glad I showered, dressed in actual clothes and even put on a little make-up because I was dazzled by a local, “mainstream” chef.
What?! It was true, the menu actually used the word “vegan”. I did clarify with the serve that vegan-friendly actually meant vegan. Whew!
I was like a kid in the candy store. I wanted it all! And it was my birthday so I did have it all! Sort of.
The feeding frenzy began.
With a little Prosecco in hand we enjoyed the chips and humus and the amuse bouche which was a cold, melon soup.
And then…
…I started with the corn soup.
Followed by the chickpea fries with aioli.
These were so good that I had to stop myself after just a few. I wanted to save room for the rest of the feast (and they made great leftovers).
Because I couldn’t decide between the two entrées I requested a half order of each. First up, the black bean meatballs over fettuccine with spinach and pomodoro sauce.
Next, the ravioli of asparagus, sweet onion and mushroom with onion soubise.
I took half of each half home.
Oh, wait…
Three vegan dessert options?!
Warm peach crisp, please.
Okay, what is up with the chef? Why so many vegan options at a “mainstream” restaurant? I asked Chef Daniel Petrilli when he came to our table. It’s simple–one of his best friends is vegan. See folks, we are ambassadors of compassion. When we live our vegan lives, people watch. They listen. Chef Daniel watched his friend dine out in frustration and made a commitment to honor vegans in his own establishment. He said he likes making vegan dishes. (Hear that, non-vegan chefs of the world?) I like Chef Daniel Petrilli making vegan dishes, too. He does so incredibly well. Everything was divine. The New York Times thinks so, too.
I will return. Often.
Haven
472 Bedford Road
Pleasantville, NY 10570
(914) 747-4646
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