Dining review: Nosh a posh place for plant-based small plates
Noshing is one of my favorite ways to eat. You know what I mean: opting for a plate of snacks or a light meal instead of going to the trouble of making a full, well-rounded one.
Well Nosh, the restaurant in Colorado Springs, has been providing that opportunity – with a flavorful flair that can make a humble vegetable shine – for eight years. It continues to be the downtown spot for vegan diners looking for a business- lunch locale, after-work drinks with bites or a higher-end dinner.
Vegan soups are on the menu at Nosh, and the spicy coconut lentil soup is my go to at lunch. I opt for the cup ($5) because I can never resist the plate of umami-rich roasted cauliflower ($9). The coconut milk in the soup offers a subtle sweetness that softens the hint of spice in the thick broth. Moving from a South to East Asian influence, the dense miso glaze on the roasted cauliflower make the dish of vegetables as meaty as the legumes in the soup.
This swanky restaurant is a great spot for a date or fun night out with friends. Call ahead and the host is sure to ask if you’re coming in for a special or occasion and if you have special dietary requests (nice touch!).
Without fail, I go for the spicy bowl. No matter how you order it, it begins with green chili and peanuts. It’s vegan as is ($11), or you can order tofu ($12) to beef it up. Tough kale simmered in peppery broth becomes tender but still chewy enough to contrast the soft tofu. Though small plates are the name of the game at Nosh, this bowl is one solid meal. (Tip: If you’re watching your sodium intake, you might ask them to take it easy on the salt – it can be hit or miss.)
Looking for a downtown spot for a gathering after work? Nosh’s happy hour is a must. From 3 to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, you can sample small bites from the snack menu. Order the sweet potatoes ($5) and edamame ($4) – very basic with salt or dressed in the jalapeno-infused house sauce for serious kick – to share.
Still hungry? Opt for a cup of that hearty lentil soup or fresh greens. The citrus salad ($7) is robust with vegetables, fruits and nuts. It’s happy hour, so don’t miss out on the multitude of beverages (and good luck making a choice): special martinis and cocktails ($5) sparkling, white and red wine ($3-$8), and sangria ($5-$7) are all up for grabs.
Whether going to Nosh for a lunch meeting, happy hour or a special night out, tasty bowls and plates of plant-based, whole foods can appease any size appetite in the posh downtown space.
Nosh Restaurant “Roasted Cauliflower and Spicy Greens Bowls” Tuesday December 15, 2015. Photo by Jeff Kearney.
Nosh Restaurant “Roasted Cauliflower and Spicy Greens Bowls” Tuesday December 15, 2015. Photo by Jeff Kearney.
Nosh Restaurant Tuesday December 15, 2015. Photo by Jeff Kearney.
Nosh Restaurant “Roasted Cauliflower Bowl” – Garlic miso, caramelized onion, basil, and cashews. Tuesday December 15, 2015. Photo by Jeff Kearney.
Nosh Restaurant “Roasted Cauliflower Bowl” – Garlic miso, caramelized onion, basil, and cashews. Tuesday December 15, 2015. Photo by Jeff Kearney.
Nosh Restaurant “Spicy Greens Bowl” – Hearty greens, garlic, chilies, peanuts and cilantro. Tuesday December 15, 2015. Photo by Jeff Kearney.
Nosh Restaurant “Roasted Cauliflower Bowl” – Garlic miso, caramelized onion, basil, and cashews. Tuesday December 15, 2015. Photo by Jeff Kearney.