Taste: Dining Out: Where We’re Eating: Thoreau

This upscale vegetarian restaurant draws customers to 10th and Spring Garden because herbivores will travel for good food. As at its sister restaurant, Blue Sage Grille in Southampton, you won’t find fake proteins or tofu on the menu. Rather, chef Mike Jackson applies an understanding of sauces and textures to create dishes that have an international flair — think falafel, Cuban sandwiches (pictured) and summer rolls. Some entrées lacked distinct flavors — the Indian khorma didn’t taste that different from the peanut soba noodles — but the meatless fare is fresh, intricate and satisfying.
Insider tip: Portions here are huge. Order a few items and share.
Thoreau, 1033 Spring Garden Street, 215-232-9001.

Where We’re Eating Contributors: Timothy Haas, Lauren McCutcheon, Ashley Primis and Christine Speer