La Vida Vegan: Charmed by Parm

The Dish:

Melanzana alla Parmigiana (traditional Italian eggplant parmigiana)

The Spot:

Civico 1845, 1845 India Street, Little Italy

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The Scene:

Tucked in the heart of Little Italy, Civico’s prime location allows for people-watching outside, or indoor dining with a lively, bustling atmosphere as the gregarious and gorgeous Italian staff greets guests. Bellissima!

Recipe for Success:

This is the best vegan dish I have tasted yet. As part of Civico’s new plant-based menu option, the plate features thinly sliced eggplant, stacked and baked until tender. The marinara sauce is thick, sweet, and just a tad acidic. The vegetable tower is topped with a nut-based cheese that any non-vegan could easily confuse for ricotta—silky, soft, and delicious.