Food so good you won’t believe it’s plant-based
Keep your eyes peeled for the opening of Plant Base Cafe in Taos because your
taste buds have been waiting for this.
“We are a one-of-a-kind, 100 percent plant-based, gluten-free,
soy-free, refined sugar-free, and organic restaurant,” said Frankie V., the founder of Plant Base Cafe. “We strive to make high-quality plant-based food mainstream with a passion to create and serve delicious and healthy food to the local community.”
Frankie V., who is both a chef and food scientist, has created
distinctive menus that bring together amazing flavors and quality ingredients from around the world
to showcase just how good plantbased food can be. Breakfast-all-day, Mexican, American and Italian items are featured, with a menu
expansion to include Indian and Asian fare planned for later this year.
But apart from his global sourcing of ideas and ingredients, Frankie V. also relies on his own
expertise in crafting the nine protein bases and eight plant-based
cheeses that are the linchpins of his culinary creations. “Everything is made from scratch and with love and gratitude,” he said.
His inaugural cafe, located in Santa Fe, has been enthusiastically
received by locals and visitors alike. He’s sure it will be a good fit for Taos, as well.
“There’s no other option like this in town,” he observed. “And I think diners are in a transition period now; they’re curious about
exploring plant-based food but may not have had a good experience. When they come to Plant Base Cafe, they’ll have a wide range of
entrées, pizzas, sandwiches and wraps, tacos, soups and salads, all
made with wholesome ingredients. They can feel good about their choices while enjoying a delicious meal.”
The venue is located in the old Eske’s, at 106 Des Georges Lane. Frankie V. has transformed
the kitchen and service areas into a high-tech chef’s dream while maintaining the historical integrity of the building itself.
Working with the blessing of his landlord, Albert Deveaux — whose family has owned the property
since the late 1800s — the space has evolved into a warm and welcoming one. Frankie V.’s partner, Maureen Dodd, and daughter, Taylor Valdez, added vibrant and
uplifting interior wall murals which heighten the ambiance with a soupçon of pure joy.
The exterior spaces have also received some tender loving care, including the outdoor stage and
seating areas. “When the weather warms and as things allow, we’ll
be presenting live entertainment,” much to the delight of the area’s local musicians. “We’ve been
dubbed the ‘Plant Base Hard Rock Cafe’ by some,” he laughed. Also planned is an ongoing series
of events featuring many of the region’s top wellness experts and lecturers.
“Dietary and lifestyle changes can be powerful,” Frankie V. said, noting his own positive transformation when he adopted a plant-based regimen. “So, in adopting a vegan
diet I first addressed my health; then, it was about the animals; and finally, it’s about the environment and sustainability,” he emphasized.
Today, it’s also about sharing the plant-based lifestyle with as many people as possible.
“Good, healthy food should be an innate right, like water,” a conviction that has him taste-testing new recipes in a unique way.
“In Santa Fe I offer food to homeless and displaced people, asking for their honest opinions. I get great feedback and plan to do the same thing here in Taos.”
A soft opening offering breakfast and lunch during the hours of 8 a.m.- 2 p.m. is scheduled for midMarch, pending approval of final permits.
“I make a mean breakfast burrito and cup of coffee,” he said, so be
sure to swing by and eat in or take out.
Once the venue’s beer and wine license is received the grand opening will be scheduled.
And with Frankie V.’s dynamic energy it’s sure to be grand, indeed.