Natura Cafe. - Dallas, Texas - restaurant reviews

Vegetarian Times, May, 1995 by Victoria Andrews

Two giant artichokes looming in front of the Natura Cafe make this Dallas-based restaurant hard to miss. Owners Phil and Janet Cobb continue the whimsical approach inside with a veritable forest of asparagus spears in the entryway. The dining room, which seats 200, has a post-modern feel to it with its whitewashed, hard maple tables. Framed artichoke prints and a view of the kitchen provide visual stimulation as well-groomed waiters in snazzy gold lame shirts and black pants work the crowd. The festive ambiance and moderately priced fare are so winning that well-heeled business patrons have already inquired about franchise opportunities.

Though the mood screams fun-meals arrived festooned like ships at a bon voyage party, with garnishes that look like confetti extending to the plate rims - the folks at Natura Cafe are serious about what you eat, drink and breathe. Breads, pastas and desserts are homemade, and the kitchen uses local, organically grown produce. The bar includes organic wines. Water (including the water in the dishwasher) is filtered through a central purification unit.

Although the restaurant does offer meat and fish entrees, there are plenty of vegetarian dishes to choose from. in addition to the obvious veggie fare, Manager Greg Spencer notes that patrons can have a number of items prepared either vegetarian or vegan. The pizzas are a veg favorite; try the one with mushrooms, thyme and oven-dried tomatoes on herb crust ($8.95).

A savory vegan appetizer, mesquitegrilled artichoke with smoked tomato sauce ($5.95), was good enough to make a satisfying entree on its own with focaccia and a salad. Or dig into spinach and chard tossed with goat cheese, corn, caramelized onions and light balsamic vinegar, Too full for apple pie with cinnamon ice cream ($3.50)? A fruity smoothie ($2.95-$3.25) ends your feast on a lighter note. Or take home your complimentary reverse fortune cookie...the fortune is printed on the wrapping paper of your homemade cookie. Mine read, "Never give anybody a fondue set or anything painted avocado green."