THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Heirloom

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Heirloom Restaurant Review:

Amidst the bodegas and boutiques of the Lower East Side, gourmet is superseding grunge and Midtowners are mixing with the bohemian East Villagers. Heirloom, with its richly casual décor (gleaming central bar, red banquettes, peach walls and dark wood tables) showcases a menu devoted to vegetarian fare. The darkened dining room flickers with subtle tea lights---just enough to barely read the organic wine-cocktail list and world-inspired menu. Peppery hush puppies with spicy crème fraîche or honey butter offer flavors of the South while a sweetly satisfying tomato-coconut ragoût with bananas and homemade tofu has hints of Brazil. There's also a very pleasing entrée of plantain gnocchi. Diversity rules the appetizer section with selections such as the truffled portobello crostini and tempura sushi rolls stuffed with sugar pumpkin and shiso. There's a bit of everything here, enough to impress both vegans and raw foodies. On a sunny day, the solarium and outdoor garden will soothe even the most jaded Manhattan-ite.