Now you can read us on your iPhone and iPad! Check out the BTRtoday app.

The West Village is a culinary mecca; and one of its many gems is the unassuming, tucked away cozy spot called Hudson Clearwater.

Earlier this week, my parents came to town. They made plans for us to have dinner with a close family friend and her boyfriend, who requested that we look for a restaurant with some solid vegetarian choices (the boyfriend eats mostly vegetarian, with some fish sprinkled in here and there.)

I rolled my eyes (vegetarianism isn’t exactly my thing…) but then I remembered the always scrumptious vegetable dishes at Hudson Clearwater. They’re veggie heavy dishes are rich, decadent, and extraordinarily creative.

We were sat opposite the open kitchen, where we watched some very handsome chefs prepare mouthwatering dishes over an open flame. We ordered an inordinate amount of food, and two bottles of lovely wine. Out of everything we chose, here are some highlights:

Dayboat Scallop Crudo with Tatsoi, Cayenne, Pickled Radish, Yuzu-Lemon Vinaigrette

Baby Kale, Blood Orange, Heirloom Carrots, Fennel, Dill, Sunflower Seeds, Carrot Vinaigrette

Maple Leaf Smoked Goat Cheese, Beets, Watercress, Shallot and Pomegranate Vinaigrette

Grilled Octopus, Fingerling Potatoes, Spinach Puree, Preserved Lemon Yogurt, Watercress

Pan-Seared Hake with Sautéed Cabbage, Salsify, Champagne Cream, Soft Herbs

Seared Duck Breast, Braised Leg, Wilted Spinach, Garbure, Quince

Each and every dish was complex, multifaceted, but most importantly, downright delicious. By the time we finished, the plates were nearly licked clean.

Located on the corner of Hudson Street and Morton, this semi-hidden restaurant boasts some of best food around. With a rotating menu that features seasonal ingredients, and some truly delicious innovation, this neighborhood haunt tops my list when it comes to farm-to-table new American cuisine.