Hey PeakGuy!

I have been a vegetarian for 10 years, and it is a really positive way to change your lifestyle. I salute you. In the interim period while you are adjusting to a meatless diet, try some of the "meat analog" soy foods. They might help satisfy any cravings. Morningstar, Gardenburger and Boca brands aren't bad. Sometimes I'll make these for convenience, but I am trying to steer clear of as much processed food as I can.

Experiment with new foods like tofu, seiten, tempeh and polenta, it will open up new worlds of taste. Some good restaurants in NYC include Angelica's Kitchen (E 9th St), Galaxy (next to Irving Plaza), Pump Energy Food (various Midtown locations), and Veggie Heaven (W 4th.)

While we're at it, let me add: Kate's Joint (Ave B and 4th? St), Vegetarian Paradise 2 (W 4th near MacDougal, actually, is that what you mean by Veggie Heaven? I think so), Red Bamboo (next door to VP2). Counter (east village), Candle Cafe and Candle 79 (both on Lex on upper east side) are high-end vegetarian places.