"Open since 2008, this influential vegetarian spot is still making fun, colorful, and sometimes downright wacky food. The five courses served at Dirt Candy—and additional small "gifts" throughout the evening—are a good budget alternative to Eleven Madison Park for a meat-free celebration, especially considering the no-tipping policy. Not everything is a hit, but dishes like a palm-sized carrot pizza, or a potato ice cream sundae inspired by Wendy’s fries and Frosty always entertain. A vegan version is available on request, and the wine pairing is $55." - bryan kim, willa moore, will hartman, molly fitzpatrick, sonal shah