A little while ago I told you that I’d been on what I called my ‘vegan NYC’ trip in November. My goal was to visit a few restaurants and stores that had a vegan or eco bent. Candle 79 is a place I’ve been to once before…for dinner and loved it. This time I wanted to go there for brunch. So my cousin, sister and I took a leisurely stroll on a beautiful Sunday morning through Central Park and up to the 79th Street exit. Very convenient since the restaurant is on East 79th. Took me awhile to figure that out. (Here is where my sister groans). After two and a half hours of wandering through the park, stopping to take photos of course and check out the gift shop, we finally made our way out and over to Candle 79. Our reservations were for noon which is when they open. We were shown upstairs where the sunlight was coming in, very warm, welcoming. Our waitress was great. Very down-to-earth and friendly. Patient and agreeable as I asked her to take our picture. Same cannot be said for my sister (who is slightly photo-phobic). My choice for brunch was the Butternut Squash and Wild Mushroom Crepe with roasted garlic aioli and mesclun greens. Not being a huge mushroom fan, I was a bit concerned but it was very nice, not overwhelming with the mushrooms at all. Sis had the Mixed Grain Waffles and my cousin had Quinoa Pancakes. Can I say I had a little Hot Toddy too? We did walk alot you know. And we walked more after brunch. Up to the Guggenheim Museum. Anyway, aside from excellent food, Candle 79 has a nice, warm atmosphere. A couple of years ago when I’d gone for dinner, they’d treated us like special guests being from out of town and all. They said to come back, and it took a bit, but we did! And I’ll go again next time I’m in NYC. One of my reasons for doing this blog is to share places I’ve been and enjoyed so if you ever find yourself in NYC absolutely give Candle 79 a try.
