Gobo

One of the most stylish vegan restaurants in the City, Gobo is dark, spirited and innovative. During the day, West Villagers stop in for light lunches and fruit smoothies from the organic juice bar. At night it's more about sampling beer and organic wine. The open kitchen whips up colorful plates like slow-cooked Malaysian curry and deeply flavored vegetable lasagna. There is a Zen-like approach to the food, but portions are ample, not monastic. Dishes are well seasoned and service is a well-oiled machine. For a vegan place, it doesn't come off as crunchy—except for the super-crunchy yam and yucca fries. The lively buzz and creativity of the spot wins over omnivores and softens feelings toward the somewhat pricey check.