Pure Food and Wine

Pure Food and Wine

The Inn at Irving Place, location of Pure Food and Wine

Pure Food and Wine was a renowned raw food restaurant located in the Gramercy Park neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City. It was celebrated for its innovative approach to cuisine, focusing on raw, vegan dishes that emphasized fresh, organic ingredients. The restaurant was part of a growing movement towards plant-based diets and was instrumental in popularizing raw food cuisine in the United States.

History

Pure Food and Wine was founded in 2004 by Sarma Melngailis and Matthew Kenney, both of whom were prominent figures in the raw food movement. The restaurant quickly gained a reputation for its creative and flavorful dishes, attracting a diverse clientele that included celebrities and food enthusiasts alike.

The restaurant was located at 54 Irving Place, in a historic building that also housed the Inn at Irving Place. The ambiance of Pure Food and Wine was elegant yet relaxed, with a garden patio that provided a serene dining experience in the heart of the city.

Cuisine

Pear Ravioli, a signature dish at Pure Food and Wine

The menu at Pure Food and Wine was entirely raw and vegan, meaning that no animal products were used and no food was heated above 118 degrees Fahrenheit. This approach was believed to preserve the natural enzymes and nutrients in the food, offering health benefits and vibrant flavors.

Signature dishes included the "Zucchini and Heirloom Tomato Lasagna," "Salsify Noodles with Radicchio and Fresh Figs," and "Pear Ravioli." These dishes showcased the restaurant's commitment to using high-quality, seasonal ingredients and its innovative culinary techniques.

Impact and Legacy

Pure Food and Wine played a significant role in the popularization of raw food cuisine in the United States. It was frequently featured in culinary publications and was a favorite among food critics. The restaurant's success helped to inspire a new generation of chefs and restaurateurs to explore plant-based and raw food cooking.

Despite its acclaim, Pure Food and Wine faced challenges, including financial difficulties and legal issues, which ultimately led to its closure in 2015. However, its influence on the culinary world continues to be felt, as more people embrace plant-based diets and the principles of raw food cuisine.

Salsify Noodles with Radicchio and Fresh Figs

Related Pages

• Raw foodism
• Veganism
• Plant-based diet
• Sarma Melngailis
• Matthew Kenney