"The tasting menu approach might be off-putting to some. But have faith and give it a shot at Plates. You won’t feel imprisoned. This vegan fine dining restaurant draws inspiration from around the world, and feels like it's doing something different. It’s unusual, mostly delicious, and it gives us weirdly strong feelings about mung beans. Unlike its location near Old Street, this countryside-feeling, tight-knit room is genuinely calming. It’s fully booked until May 2025, but it’s worth trying your luck with same-week cancellations. Input all the dates you want and join the waitlist for an email if a cancellation pops up. Alternatively, they’ve been known to have space for solo diners so give that a try too." - heidi lauth beasley, jake missing, daisy meager