Hotel/Rest recommendations for picky eater in NYC
 

Does anyone have suggestions for New York City restaurants to take someone who's a vegetarian and serious calorie counter who can't eat spicy food but wants a "regular, fancy" restaurant atmosphere? (In other words, most interesting ethnic cuisines and hardcore veggie spots like Souen, Caravan of Dreams, Zen Palate and Angelika's are out-it's even hard to get her to go to Japanese, and Chinese is out of the question, too oily). In the past we have had success at Italian places but there is always the danger of too much oil or cream in the sauces. We usually end up having at least one meal at a place where this diner (my mother) can have rice and steamed vegetables, so any restaurant that can deliver that but still appeals to less picky eaters (myself and my sister) would be greatly appreciated. We did go to Heartbeat last visit but I think the recipes were a bit too creative for her tastes and it was a tad expensive (upwards of $25 for an entree), although I do recommend it to others of similar inclination. <BR> <BR>Also, any recent stays at either the St. Moritz or Roger Smith hotels? Thanks in advance!

I really like Spring Street Natural Restaurant, at the corner of Spring and Lafayette. They have everything from beautiful salads and vegetable dishes, to fish, chicken etc. The atmosphere is nice and the price is moderate (entrees anywhere from $10-$20). The food is very tasty and very healthy.

I really like Spring Street Natural Restaurant, at the corner of Spring and Lafayette. They have everything from beautiful salads and vegetable dishes, to fish, chicken etc. The atmosphere is nice and the price is moderate (entrees anywhere from $10-$20). The food is very tasty and very healthy.

The Roger Smith is pleasant and in a good location within walking distance to lots of places. I haven't stayed at St Moritz but it is on Central Park-however- I hear it needs work.

The Roger Smith is pleasant and in a good location within walking distance to lots of places. I haven't stayed at St Moritz but it is on Central Park-however- I hear it needs work.

Dear Rebecca: forget the St. Moritz. Stayed there 4 years ago with my husband and our 9 year old son. Elevators took forever to get open and to get to and from the lobby. At least we had a front view of Central Park and I didn't see any roaches. Otherwise the lobby was crowded and messy and so was the room. The good part was $100. w/tax for 3 and the window was so old it actually opened. The view was worth it, but if you go "accommodationsexpress.com", you may find The Essex House at $188. a night. We were there until this past Sun. Beautiful great service and great view of park. Ask for an upgrade when you get there & you might get a room with the view". Its a smaller room than the one you get for $188., but believe us its worth it for the romance of the park.

I think Vietmamese is the ultimate lean cuisine and you cant do better than the beautiful Le Colonial on 57th near Lex for that. <BR>While you are in the neighborhood, check out the Fitzpatrick,on Lex near 57th where I always stay. Very reasonable and very enjoyable. . <BR> <BR>Also, have you tried favia on 60th and 2nd. They only serve spa food and the menu has the calorie and fat vounts on it. No problem for veggie girls like your firend and I.

Maybe you should look at the Zagat's Restaurant Guide. If your not familiar with it, it rates practically every restaurant in the city, based on real people's experiences. They list them by type of food, location, etc. <BR> <BR>We recently went to a restaurant on the upper west side called Calle Ocho, which is sort of Spanish cuisine (eclectic, really), but has a really nice, "fancy" atmosphere. They have some very healthy foods, and is great quality. We all really enjoyed it. I know they have a fab veggie entree that I got, and it was great. It's on Columbus bet 81/82. Beware, it's a bit expensive. <BR> <BR>Good luck.