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Restaurant Reviews for Dirt Candy

Dirt Candy

430 East 9th Street
New York, NY 10009

Cutting edge vegetarian food with added flavor and no politics in this sleek and stylish underground room that’s a showcase for crazy, pop-tastic dishes from award-winning chef, Amanda Cohen. A below-the-radar wine list, raves from Gourmet and Bon Appetit, and vegetables presented in all their earth-shattering, gob-smacking glory.

Dining Style: Casual Elegant
Price: $31 to $50
Parking: Street Parking
Cross Street: Between 1st Avenue and Avenue A

See more Dirt Candy details

Average Diner Rating
Overall Rating		4.3 out of 5 (179 Reviews)

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

Summary of Special Features

Diners classify this restaurant as:

fit for foodies (139)
neighborhood gem (101)
special occasion (63)
romantic (37)
hot spot (26)
notable wine list (22)
late-night find (5)
good for groups (3)
scenic view (1)

Dirt Candy Reviews List

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"This place is tiny, but fantastic! I suggest reservations (even for a party of two). The fact that they will modify almost anything on the menu for vegans is fantastic! The Jalapeno hush puppies with maple butter were to die for! Our entrees had so many delectable flavors. My friends said that the mint ice cream bar tasted like biting into a sprig of fresh mint. I have been to most (if not all) vegetarian/vegan restaurants in the city, and this one is a top contender!!!"

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Energetic)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 03/17/2010

(review submitted 03/19/2010)

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Review 2 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Good)

"A must for vegetarians and health minded foodies. very creative fare. restaurant is very small and not big on ambience, however. small tables for two or four. service friendly and enthusiastic about the food."

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Fair)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Quiet)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 03/16/2010

(review submitted 03/19/2010)

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Review 3 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Inventive Vegetarian and Vegan cuisine. A true food adventure with sampling around the table from everyone's dish to compare. One word of caution, one member of our group was sensitive to spices and some of the dishes were "hot". Talk to the staff and they will modify everything for you. Try to go with a group to sample the starters, entrees and definitely get their Popcorn Pudding for desert and a remarkable end to an inventive and tasty meal. The sitting is very limited so be certain to reserve your table in advance."

Special Features: fit for foodies

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Fair)
Service		(Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 03/11/2010

(review submitted 03/13/2010)

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Review 4 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Always excellent and delicious."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Energetic)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 03/11/2010

(review submitted 03/13/2010)

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Review 5 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Chef comes to the table to help you order!!! Most interesting and creative menu!! We felt the love and care that goes into this food and this restaurant it was delicious to boot!!!"

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Energetic)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 03/10/2010

(review submitted 03/12/2010)

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Review 6 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"It was a first rate, first date, for two vegetarians. I couldn't have asked for a better experience. Thank you."

Special Features: fit for foodies, late-night find, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 03/05/2010

(review submitted 03/07/2010)

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Review 7 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"The evening was wonderful. Nine tables; all full. MAKE A RESERVATION AND BE PROMPT. Everything we had was excellent. We shared the jalapeno hush puppies, each had a second dish (soup and salad), and then each had an entree. Waitresses just present enough and explained every dish. Food arrived right out of the oven, just the right temperature. Can't wait for another chance to go back. We had the winter menu; looking forward to spring."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Energetic)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 03/05/2010

(review submitted 03/07/2010)

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Review 8 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"The service was just lovely. The menu is small, but everything on it is delicious. It's wonderful to find a vegetarian restaurant that brings out TASTE in the food! Thank you so much, Amanda Cohen. I can't wait to return as you update the menu with seasonal treats."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Outstanding)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 03/04/2010

(review submitted 03/06/2010)

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Review 9 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"The food was delicious, the service fine, the room lovely."

Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Energetic)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 03/03/2010

(review submitted 03/05/2010)

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Review 10 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Our meal was outstanding. Never had such imaginative and delicious presentation of vegetables. Never missed the meat! The restaurant is tiny, exuberant. Not surprising. The diners are eating joyous food!"

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Energetic)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 03/02/2010

(review submitted 03/04/2010)

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Review 11 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"The food was incredible. I went with two non-vegetarian friends and they loved everything we ordered. The jalapeno hush puppies with maple butter well deserve their reputation, the kimchi donuts were good although now I wish I had ordered the pumpkin salad. The gnocchi and the grits were both delicious- our plates were literally wiped clean. For dessert we tried the vegan ice cream bar and it was very good as well. The sweet pea mint ice cream made me realize how fake the chocolate chip mint ice cream you buy in markets is. All in all, great for a special occasion- incredible food, incredible service (the head chef was our waitress!)."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/27/2010

(review submitted 03/02/2010)

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Review 12 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Fabulous Vegetarian Food- an absolute find in the East Village."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/24/2010

(review submitted 03/01/2010)

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Review 13 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Good)

"The food is definitely interesting and good, but not outstanding. Don't go without a reservation because the place is tiny and I don't think they do too many walk-in's."

Special Features: fit for foodies

Food		(Good)
Ambiance		(Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Quiet)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/26/2010

(review submitted 03/01/2010)

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Review 14 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"The restaurant was exactly what I expected after going to the website. Delicious vegetarian fare, different from normal in that it doesn't make an attempt to be "healthy" - hence the delicious! To start, I had the jalapeno hush puppies, which were deliciously cut with a maple butter. My date had the pumpkin salad - it had a nice smoky flavor and a medley of textures. She had the eggplant main course, which was a bit heavy but delicious, and I had the "grits," which were unlike anything I'd ever had before. These were very satisfying dishes, regardless of whether or not they were vegetarian - I didn't miss meat at all! Also, the hostess/server was exceptionally well-versed in the dishes and the chef/owner was fully involved as well."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/24/2010

(review submitted 02/26/2010)

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Review 15 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Excellent food and service. A bit cramped, but to be expected for east village dining. Don't expect to have a very private conversation, but definitely worth it. Very tasty!!"

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/13/2010

(review submitted 02/26/2010)

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Review 16 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Poor)

"Not one, but two confirming emails regarding our reservation. And a confirming phone call that morning. It's dinner, not surgery. We appreciate the creative use of vegetables, but the food doesn't live up to the hype or the tab."

Food		(Fair)
Ambiance		(Poor)
Service		(Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Quiet)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/20/2010

(review submitted 02/25/2010)

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Review 17 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Absolutely incredible food - tofu tasted better than a steak!"

Special Features: fit for foodies

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Quiet)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/23/2010

(review submitted 02/25/2010)

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Review 18 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Delicious, rich vegetarian food with friendly and attentive service. Cozy. Limited but thoughtful menu."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/17/2010

(review submitted 02/24/2010)

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Review 19 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"The food continues to be excellent (this was my third visit) and the staff is very accommodating and friendly. The flavors in the all-vegetarian dishes will surprise you (and delight) and I wouldn't hesitate to bring a meat-eating foodie companion, as I did. Recommend the squash salad, kimchi donuts, and the grits. Bring back the grapefruit lollipops, please!"

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/20/2010

(review submitted 02/24/2010)

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Review 20 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"very cute little restaurant with great food. best vegetarian specialty restaurant i've tried! will definitely go back"

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/16/2010

(review submitted 02/19/2010)

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Review 21 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Good)

"Food was intersting, but not spectacular. I had higher expectations. Dessert (sweet potato puffs) did not taste fresh or homemade--very disappointing. Limited menu. Small restaurant and open kitchen means that cooking smells fill whole restaurant. Service was amiable and energetic, but understaffed."

Special Features: fit for foodies

Food		(Good)
Ambiance		(Good)
Service		(Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/17/2010

(review submitted 02/19/2010)

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Review 22 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"The restaurant proves you don't need meat to tempt diners. Though the menu is seasonably small it was difficult to make a decision. The Austrian red wine was an odd choice yet was outstanding. The small space and one server were noticable but not a real problem."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Energetic)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/17/2010

(review submitted 02/19/2010)

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Review 23 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"We were there late, but you would have thought that we were the first diners of the evening. I enjoyed watching the chef, Amanda Cohen, gazing over the customers from the kitchen as she worked, making sure that every diner's experience was going well. My favorite: the winter salad. I could have made a meal of it alone."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Quiet)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/12/2010

(review submitted 02/18/2010)

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Review 24 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Went with my boyfriend and had a great time. The service was excellent and although the tables were a little cramped, the delicious and innovative dishes made you forget all about it. Can't wait to come back!"

Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Energetic)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/09/2010

(review submitted 02/11/2010)

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Review 25 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Although the veggies were cooked perfectly and the service was very helpful and enthusiastic, the prices were a little too high.

They are not lying with there name, the parsnip gnocchi were as sweet and decadent as any candy."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/06/2010

(review submitted 02/08/2010)

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Review 26 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Fabulous creative menu. Informative and friendly staff"

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Quiet)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/06/2010

(review submitted 02/08/2010)

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Review 27 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"All I have to say is...dazzling. I loved every bite. Beautifully prepared and served. A+"

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Quiet)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/04/2010

(review submitted 02/07/2010)

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Review 28 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Fair)

"Some dishes were delicious--notably the pumpkin salad and the hush puppies. I found eggplant fettucine bland (especially the broth). The popcorn pudding and sweet potato puffs were interesting but not my thing."

Special Features: fit for foodies

Food		(Good)
Ambiance		(Fair)
Service		(Fair)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/04/2010

(review submitted 02/06/2010)

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Review 29 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"we were very impressed with the creativity & handling of the 'vegetarian' menu."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 02/03/2010

(review submitted 02/05/2010)

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Review 30 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Good)

"A vegetarian restaurant with dishes prepared vegan upon request. I don't like vegetables much, but wanted to give it a try. The menu was limited, as it's new, but refreshingly simple. We split the red pepper hush puppies with maple butter - yummy. I got the Radish! appetizer, which was kimchi donuts, one of the more innovative dishes I've had, with a tasty side salad. My friend got Mushroom! and enjoyed a portobello pate on toast. My main course was Corn!, and though it's hard with corn not to end up with generic mush, it was fine. Friend loved the Eggplant! The red pepper velvet cake NOTHING like red velvet cake, but flavorful. Nice organic red wines, and only one beer, Japanese, but friend approved. Service by the friendly chef herself."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/29/2010

(review submitted 01/31/2010)

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Review 31 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Good)

"The food was much better than expected after reading negative reviews on Yelp, etc. Portions were ample. Jalapeno hush puppies are a must - super light and fluffyt. Might be my fave thing there. Squash salad was a great mix of flavors - lots of depth. The gnocchi is a little one note, although neat to see the whole dish could be made vegan. The grits were superb - creamy, tasty, comforting and the tempura egg on top is genius. Popcorn pudding for dessert was a total let down - absolutely not worth it. The service was really spotty- great at first but dishes came out before we were done with the previous round, and it took 25 mins to take our dessert order but we were rushed out repeatedly to free up our table. Bad way to end!!"

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Fair)
Service		(Poor)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Quiet)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/23/2010

(review submitted 01/26/2010)

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Review 32 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Lavish and inventive vegetarian cuisine."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/22/2010

(review submitted 01/25/2010)

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Review 33 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Good)

"Good restaurant for Vegetarians."

Food		(Good)
Ambiance		(Fair)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Quiet)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/15/2010

(review submitted 01/24/2010)

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Review 34 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"It is a very small space, but the the food is fantastic. Amanda Cohen can do unbelievable things with vegetables. The service was a bit spotty, especially considering there is only room for about 30 diners, but it was overall a fantastic experience. I would definitely go back."

Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Good)
Service		(Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/22/2010

(review submitted 01/24/2010)

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Review 35 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Amazing vegetarian and vegan food!"

Special Features: fit for foodies

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Good)
Service		(Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/20/2010

(review submitted 01/22/2010)

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Review 36 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"best vegetarian meal ever. thoughtful, smart, creative food pairing and preparation. absolutely amazing wine choices. our 11th wedding anniversary was perfect!"

Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/16/2010

(review submitted 01/19/2010)

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Review 37 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Eat your vegetables! :-) We started with the jalapeno hush puppies, which came with
with maple butter. Oh. My. Goodness.

He had the radish app (with kimchi donuts) and the parsnips main, while I went for the pumpkin winter salad and the corn main. Everything was rich and delicious. It was wonderful."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/15/2010

(review submitted 01/19/2010)

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Review 38 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"A really terrific experience. The food is both interesting and delicious. Service was great, and friendly. The chef is clearly very passionate about her food and excited about sharing that. I'd highly recommend it."

Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/16/2010

(review submitted 01/19/2010)

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Review 39 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Amazing food . . . if you like to eat and run.

We ordered a snack, appetizer, two entrees, dessert, and a bottle of wine yet we were rushed! We couldn't eat/drink any faster."

Special Features: special occasion

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Good)
Service		(Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/15/2010

(review submitted 01/18/2010)

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Review 40 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Every morsel of food served was beautiful and full of delicious flavors. The presentation was inventive and well balanced. While you will not leave stuffed, you will enjoy every bite. The service was warm and inviting. Reservations are a must, and are repected by the restaurant."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/09/2010

(review submitted 01/12/2010)

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Review 41 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Good)

"The place is too small for its tables. Otherwise, very nice. Food very impressive and tasty."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Energetic)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/06/2010

(review submitted 01/08/2010)

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Review 42 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"everything was great. the strangest thing on the menu - the eggplant - ended up tasting the best... good place to be adventurous!"

Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/06/2010

(review submitted 01/08/2010)

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Review 43 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Food was delicious, head and shoulders above all of the vegetarian only restaurants we have enjoyed. Service was excellent."

Special Features: romantic

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 01/02/2010

(review submitted 01/05/2010)

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Review 44 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"It was just a fabulous experience. The staff were just amazing. It is not just for vegetarians. Try the squash salad and the veggie fritters. The menu is quite short but each item we tried was great. The restaurant is small, but it didn't fel too small. Highly, highly recommended."

Special Features: fit for foodies

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/19/2009

(review submitted 01/03/2010)

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Review 45 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Food, though limited in choices, was very well prepared - the maple butter that accompanied the jalapeno poppers was tremendous. I recommend checking out their website and the head chef's blog. It's fun to see the chef thumb her nose at an establishment of which she also has a pretty good mastery."

Special Features: fit for foodies

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Quiet)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/23/2009

(review submitted 12/29/2009)

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Review 46 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Exceptional food for the price, cosy if not a little cramped, so book to be sure of a table - and enjoy really innovative vegetarian cooking and the warmest of welcomes from passionate staff.

Vistor from London, England"

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Energetic)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/19/2009

(review submitted 12/22/2009)

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Review 47 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Food was very unique. Dessert: must try the velvet red pepper cupcake with icecream."

Special Features: notable wine list, special occasion

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Energetic)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/17/2009

(review submitted 12/20/2009)

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Review 48 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Good)

"The chef proudly proclaims that this is not health food vegetarian, which is true. Indeed, my companion and I found the menu slightly greasy, and with an unfortunate repetition of ingredients so that it was hard to select a dessert that did not feature one of the main ingredients from a previous course. With the tiny menu of 4 choices per course, this was puzzling (perhaps some fruit could be added-- a nice tarte tatin would have been so much more appealing than the popcorn dessert following on the heels of the very tasty grits). The presentations are very attractive and the concept is good, but the execution lacks the intensity of flavor that extraordinary vegetables have. Overall a good experience, but it falls far short of the raves"

Food		(Good)
Ambiance		(Good)
Service		(Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Energetic)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/17/2009

(review submitted 12/19/2009)

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Review 49 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Excellent. New additions to the menu were super and the standbys like the Jalapeno Hush Puppies and Popcorn Pudding are can't miss! I only wish they would expand to a larger space!!"

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/16/2009

(review submitted 12/18/2009)

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Review 50 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Fair)

"Snack and Second Course were really good...although food is over priced since the portions are really small as well as the space...after a while we had to leave because they needed a table...desserts may sound good but I'll recommend to skip them because they don't taste as good...we were really disappointed about that...Service was perfect...the waitress was really nice and explained everything on the menu and answered our questions..."

Food		(Good)
Ambiance		(Fair)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/15/2009

(review submitted 12/17/2009)

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Review 51 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Wonderful innovative menu and helpful staff"

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/15/2009

(review submitted 12/17/2009)

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Review 52 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Really great, though tiny restaurant serving delicious cuisine. Don't go in thinking "It's a vegetarian restaurant" because its like no other I've been to. Its honestly a high end restaurant, that just happens to serve no animal as its proteins. The presentation is that of a 3-4 star NY Times review restaurant."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Quiet)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/15/2009

(review submitted 12/17/2009)

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Review 53 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Kimchi Donuts with greens, Asparagus paella, nanaimo bar with mint pea icecream - gorgeous.
Lovely, small and local."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/08/2009

(review submitted 12/15/2009)

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Review 54 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"This small gem of a restaurant delivers spectacular vegetarian food that even a non-vegetarian can appreciate. They are very welcoming with a knowledge of the menu and wine list. The food is delicious and spotlights the myriad flavors of fresh seasonal vegetables (without trying to be imitation meat). This was our second visit and we will return. (NB: Just don't linger over coffee--someone else is waiting for their turn at a wonderful meal. The restaurant is too gracious to tell you this.)"

Special Features: fit for foodies

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Quiet)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/12/2009

(review submitted 12/15/2009)

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Review 55 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Small but impressive vegetarian restaurant in the east village with food that is beautifully presented and artfully cooked. Prices are a tad high for the portion size and the menu is limited (four entrees, four appetizers, four desserts) but Chef Amanda Cohen manages to make the most of her vegetable-centric menu in a refreshingly original way. Interesting wine list with quite a few Austrian varietals not frequently seen on this side of the Atlantic."

Special Features: neighborhood gem, notable wine list

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/12/2009

(review submitted 12/14/2009)

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Review 56 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"small but fresh, seasonal, menu prepared with tlc and it shows.
Vegetarians and people who want to eat healthy, clean, declicous food will be delighted.
cb"

Special Features: fit for foodies

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/11/2009

(review submitted 12/13/2009)

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Review 57 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Excellent food, presentation and service!"

Special Features: neighborhood gem

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Quiet)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/08/2009

(review submitted 12/10/2009)

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Review 58 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Overall the experience was satisfying but did not quite live up to some of the more glowing reviews. Highlights were definitely the first courses, standouts being the kimchi donuts and the hush puppies with maple butter.
I also found the Red pepper velvet cake to be a successful dish, with the moderate heat of the peppers providing an interesting counterpoint to the soft sweetness of the cake and the crunchy sweetness of the peanut brittle.
The service was just the right combination of attentiveness and restraint that enabled us to relax and enjoy the experience.
The wine list was small but well chosen to pair with the food, and diverse enough to please most people's palates.
Recommended to anyone who enjoys interesting, well executed"

Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/04/2009

(review submitted 12/06/2009)

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Review 59 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Good)

"Good food, not too esoteric. Liked that I was satisfied/full after the meal. Service was excellent!"

Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion

Food		(Good)
Ambiance		(Fair)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Energetic)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 11/21/2009

(review submitted 12/06/2009)

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Review 60 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"One of the few boites which lives up to the hype and delivers affordable luxury in a recession economy. Chef Amanda gets my dinner dollars for her creativity and obsession with non-carnal desire on a plate. Note to foodies: Was like Sussan Goin in LA without meat"

Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 12/04/2009

(review submitted 12/06/2009)

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Review 61 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"My dinner companion and I enjoyed the creative and delcious food, and the friendly service. Our waitress was very knowledgeable about the food and its ingredients! I liked the little touches, such as the candle on the desert in celebration of my friend's birthday. Kudos Amanda!!"

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 11/28/2009

(review submitted 12/05/2009)

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Review 62 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"We had such a fun dinner experience here. We are both veggies and enjoyed the unique twist on a vegetarian menu. Dessert was amazing. Our entrees were our least favorite of all the courses, but still delicious. I highly recommend it and I am already thinking about what I'll try next time."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Quiet)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 11/21/2009

(review submitted 12/05/2009)

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Review 63 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Fantastic use of flavours - very enjoyable evening."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 11/21/2009

(review submitted 12/05/2009)

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Review 64 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Fair)

"The meal was uneven. Some things were pretty flavorful and interesting, like the jalapeno hush puppies with maple butter and the red pepper velvet cake. However, my entree (asparagus paella) missed the mark - bland and the rice was too mushy, like cafeteria spanish rice. The flavors should have been impressive in every dish instead of just the apps and dessert. Also did not care for the low lighting, as it was somniferous.

Overall, overpriced and overhyped."

Food		(Fair)
Ambiance		(Fair)
Service		(Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 11/25/2009

(review submitted 12/04/2009)

0 of 1 people found this review helpful.

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Review 65 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"Fun and delicious! The staff were particularly friendly and clearly very interested in the food, which always makes me want to return. The wines were delightful and available in half glasses. The food was a nice mix of the familiar and the engineered. I'm still mystified by the tomato pearls..."

Special Features: fit for foodies

Food		(Very Good)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 11/20/2009

(review submitted 12/04/2009)

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Review 66 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Really liked it.
Enjoy Vegetarian food, but am not a vegitarian. But with food like that I would never miss meat."

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 11/27/2009

(review submitted 12/03/2009)

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Review 67 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Freaking fantastic Food. This is definitely the best vegetarian restaurant in the country. At first I was a little put off by the small space but as soon as I sat down all my fears disappeared and I couldn't have had a more pleasant meal. Must tries are the hush puppies, the soup and the pasta. There was so much flavor packed into each dish. The owner/chef served me. What a treat!"

Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 11/25/2009

(review submitted 12/03/2009)

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Review 68 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

"The dishes were interesting, but portions small and the dishes were just not "wow" enough to justify the price tag. I say this as a vegan who loves food and dines out all the time. The portobello mousse was interesting, but the black olive fettucine was one-note and disappointing."

Special Features: neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic

Food		(Good)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 11/28/2009

(review submitted 12/02/2009)

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Review 69 for Dirt Candy

Overall Rating

(Outstanding)

"Great service and freshly prepared meals are very good. We had the jalapeno hushpuppies, kimchi donuts, asparagus paella, and black olive fettucine with eggplant in a basil broth. All great.

I felt that the olive fettucine could have had a dash more seasoning (lemon? salt?)to bring out the olive notes. The asparagus paella was amazing. All of the dinner items can be made vegan, and there are two vegan dessert options.

The wine list, while limited, is very well selected to pair with the food. Our server was extremely knowledgeable about the food and wine and attentive but not at all pestery or salesy."

Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Outstanding)
Service		(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Quiet)

By an OpenTable.com user

who dined on 11/21/2009

(review submitted 11/23/2009)

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Ratings-Only Reviews for Dirt Candy

Based on the average of (110) ratings-only reviews

Overall Rating

(Very Good)

Food		(Outstanding)
Ambiance		(Very Good)
Service		(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level		(Moderate)

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