Thursday, April 22, 2010

Food @AS220

Food@ AS220
103-105 Empire St
Providence, RI 02903
401-831-FOOD
website

Food is the reincarnation of Taqueria Pacifica.  I'm pretty much in love with their philosophy of cooking from scratch and working with local farmers and vendors.

The setting is funky and the crowd is a random mix.  AS220 is the non-profit community arts and performance space in the area, so that makes sense. 

When you get there, pick up a menu and order at the counter.  Once you pay, they'll give you a playing card that serves as your number to pick up your food.   You have to love that they say, "We are an equal opportunity eatery.  Please alert us of any food allergies or aversions and we will administer appropriate alchemy to accommodate you."

Just about everything on the menu has a vegan option.  I've been there four times now and have enjoyed almost every dish.  I'm not a huge fan of the vegan Spicy Portuguese open faced sandwich though.  On the other hand the Herb Roasted Chicken Seitan with lentils and veggies is awesome.  I also highly recommend the vegan Cauliflower Empanada and the Crispy Chickpeas side dish.
 Cauliflower Empanada

Crunchy Chickpeas

There's plenty of on street parking available in Providence!

*Note about AS220: This performance space is unique. They have artists in residence and various shows throughout the week. There is almost always graphic art or photography in the gallery. Nights you find poetry readings, musicians, and film presentations. Thursday the Poetry Slam takes place and the show is a must see. Saturday afternoon in the cold months, AS200 hosts a winter farmer's market.