Last week Eric and I went to Karyn’s Cooked for a fabulous vegan dinner.  I have been several times on my own for take away and with vegetarian girlfriends, but this was the first time bringing Eric, who is a meat eater.

The organic beverages were a wonderful way to begin – Eric had an organic beer and I had a lovely glass of organic Meinklang Pinot Noir.

For startes we had a bowl of cream of broccoli soup and bruschetta.  The bruschetta was standard with almost a smokey taste from how the bread was grilled.  The cream of broccoli was fantastic – thick and full of flavor.  I miss cheesy broccoli soup as I consume very little dairy so this really satisfied my craving and reminded me of my childhood when that was my favorite soup.

For an entree Eric selected Green Enchiladas – Corn tortillas stuffed with garlic mashed potatoes, smothered in a green tomatillo sauce and drizzled with soy cheese. Served with a side of Spanish brown rice and refried black beans.  The meal was good but not amazing – of course I tried it too

  The enchiladas were good but I would have like them to have some veggies inside.  They were very unique being stuffed with mashed potatoes but by the end of the meal it just seemed like potato overdose.  The best part was the Spanish brown rice which Eric quickly gobbled down, leaving none for me to try.  The refried black beans were rather dry and crumbly – disappointing.

I opted for the Stuffed Eggplant- Thin grilled eggplant stuffed with a homemade faux ricotta cheese topped with marinara sauce.  I’ve had this before and it has been amazing each time.  It is a unique dish that you don’t often see – even with real ricotta – so I had to have it.  I really should make this at home some time – it can’t be too difficult!

To finish off our lovely dinner we had the blueberry cheese cake – the cheese cake itself was blueberry flavored and then there was a blueberry compote on top with a whole wheat crust.

On past visits I’ve had the mac and cheese(vegan of course), sloppy jo  and stuffed cabbage(which is often a special).  I highly recommend anyone of those dishes!  YUM – I’m getting hungry just thinking about them!

We’ll definitely be back – even Eric!  Even if you’re a meat eater give it a try – there are lots of great things on the menu that you’ll find surprisingly delicious.  If you’re nervous to be too adventurous there is always pizza and salads that should make you feel safe for your first visit

738 N. Wells St.

312-587-1050