Perfectly Planted

If you are even the tiniest bit curious about plant-based cuisine, the place to explore that culinary adventure is Planta, currently in South Beach and Coconut Grove, and opening in West Palm Beach early this year. 

 It is truly a life-changing experience that challenges any preconceived notions you may have about plant-based food and restaurants. Planta’s cuisine is exceptional, highly innovative, and served solicitously while you relax in an atmosphere of breezy luxury.

Planta’s menu by Chef David Lee comprises a wealth of plant-based-only options, from snacks, starters, and sushi, to pizza, main dishes, and dessert. For plant-based cuisine novices, experience this for all the new flavors and textures you will enjoy. For plant-based cuisine aficionados, get ready to love your food like never before. 

But first, drinks. There are plenty of alcoholic and non-alcoholic options at Planta, which has an impressive wine list, along with beer, cider, sake, and cocktails that will make your taste buds sit up and take notice. Mine did when I had the Pink Flamingo, made with Beluga vodka, lychee, grapefruit, hibiscus, and lime – topped off with a beautiful, free-floating viola flower that is edible. Planta’s “Free Spirits” are antioxidant tonics and there is an assortment of cold pressed juices. 

Having never tried plant-based sushi, I was game but skeptical that I would enjoy the Ahi Watermelon Nigiri with ginger and a refreshing Citrus Soya. It was fabulous, with taste and texture that rivaled the most tender tuna but without any of the heaviness. The Stuffed Mushrooms with artichoke hearts and garlic butter have the rich texture of escargot and are among the best I have enjoyed.

The Cauliflower Tots with truffle almond parmesan are a sophisticated take on potato tots that you would swear is an amazing version of the real thing – just much more nuanced in taste. And if you love truffles, you must have the Truffle Bianca Pizza, made with potatoes, cashew mozzarella, and black truffle. It tastes like the smoothest and richest version of white pizza with a just-right crispy crust.

We topped this decadent and guilt-free feast off with the Flourless Banoffee Pie, which has an exceptional almond crust, dates, Dulce de Leche, bananas and coconut cream.

My palate was perfectly pampered at Planta. 

Planta South Beach is located at 850 Commerce St., Miami Beach. For more information, call 305-397-8513 or visit plantarestaurants.com. Planta West Palm Beach will be opening in Rosemary Square early this year.