Ok, so it is admittedly not in Grammercy Park OR the East Village at all... but based on a recommendation by a veggie friend, I took several friends to ZEN PALATE. I dined at the (I believe original) location at 9th and 46th around Hell's Kitchen, though I now see there are 4 locations, including one at Union Square. At any rate, 1 of my 3 friends was a vegetarian... but we all had a phenomenal and inventive meal from their entirely veggie menu. Look at it as an adventure for all of you to explore veggie cuisine!! This way, instead of him feeling like he has to settle for a veggie option and be restricted, the two of YOU can indulge his lifestyle and give it a try. You won't be disappointed. Though it doesn't carry the price tag of some of the other suggestions I've read, the ambience is beautiful, serene, and.. well... zen. In fact, I'm heading to NYC this weekend for an interview, and fully intend on introducing another friend to the Zen Palate.
