4.5
I didn't know what to expect when I pulled up to Avo. I came here soon after it opened and with only one previous raw, vegan dining experience. It wasn't positive. If you search my reviews, you can read the sad (but funny) tale. But, I am all about trying new things and supporting the local landscape so when I had a lunch meeting to set up, I chose Avo and let things fall where they may.
First impression: love the campus. Again, when I first came here, the onec1ty campus was more of a twinkle in the developer's eye than a full realized thing, but looking at the layout, examining the space and speaking with restaurant ownership, I got an impression. I loved the dedication and commitment to re-imagined urban growth. Not only does it make sense (and is the way of the future), it non-verbally communicates that the folks at Avo aren't poseurs. Their mission is real and you experience it before you ever take a bite of the food. The inside of the storage unit that houses the restaurant is beautiful: reclaimed wood, high ceilings, greenery. Again, such a smart use of space. It instantly sets a mood that encourages diners to be adventurous, present and excited about what it is they're about to undertake.
From a food perspective, I wasn't too adventurous. I opted for the vegan caesar. Not only was the salad huge, it was deceptively filling. I had a hard time getting through it all -- and not because it didn't taste fantastic! I was intrigued and delighted (legit delighted) by the tree nut parmesan. I couldn't believe that it wasn't milk cheese. Light, flaky and with a consistency that reminded you of the real deal, I could have that shaved on all sorts of dishes. Likewise, the cashew garlic caesar dressing was delicious. It was liberally applied to the salad, naturally attached to the leaves and had a flavor that added to every bite. Loved it and would order again. My dining companion had the lasagna and, despite my concerns, I accepted a bite. Delicious. I have a fear of vegan cheeses and meats. Oftentimes, neither agrees with me and leads to... bad things. I don't know whether the quality of product is higher at Avo or if it's the fact that the food is raw... but everything was easily agreeable, digestible and enjoyable.
But, the salad wasn't the star of the food show. If you come to Avo, avail yourself of the juice and dessert programs. Do it. Trust me. Avo has a diverse selection of juices but when I was there, the program hadn't been set up. So, I was allowed to make my own. I had an orange/lime/ginger concoction that was out of this world. Ask for it. Since the food is raw and naturally fit for our bodies, even eating a big lunch won't make you feel rough and bloated, so I decided to try dessert. Again, I was initially skeptical of raw, vegan dessert... and that skepticism was entirely misplaced. I enjoyed one of the most decadent desserts I've ever had: smoked vanilla, full-fat coconut milk ice cream. It tasted like roasted marshmallows and had the consistency of luscious ice cream. I was mesmerized. I was mystified. I was addicted. No lie: I have often thought of that dessert. I'm not kidding when I say it's one of the best I've ever had -- and it was raw and vegan. #themoreyouknow
Avo is an important part of Nashville's food landscape. As the city grows and residents demand & expect a more cosmopolitan... everything, businesses like Avo are going to be what stems the tide. Nashville's 'it city' status completely depends on forward-thinking and facing businesses like Avo (and onec1ty). I'm so pleased it's here. read more