Moxie Colorado Springs

I've been in twice now, once for lunch and coffee, once for dinner and cocktails. At any time of the day, everything here is very affordable. It's probably one of the most affordable speciality restaurants I've been to, which makes sense, since vegetarian food options tend to be less expensive to prepare than non-vegetarian meals. I've been fortunate to try a good chunk of the menu, eating family-style with friends, and I really liked everything. The presentation is good, the balance, portion size, and unique quality of each item is great, and it's just all very tasty. I recommend the fettuccini or lentil fritters for your entree. Tempura battered fries are an awesome app. Expected vegan offerings make an appearance, like a Buddha bowl type dish, salads, seitan, etc. The desserts are also on point. If you order Brussels sprouts, get a side of sauce or a lemon wedge. If you get the burger, I recommend asking for extra tomato chutney and pickles. Coffee is properly prepared (usually -- it's definitely going to be a step below the best coffee in town prepared by professional baristas), inexpensive, and roasted by either Loyal Coffee or Story Coffee Co, so it's great. Both drip and espresso drinks are served, including caffè affogato with homemade ice cream. Yum. The cocktail menu is focused on bright, refreshing drinks, and most non-liquor products are made on site, such as the Mary mix or various syrups (coffee liqueur, anyone?) and citrus. Everything I tried was great -- well balanced, utilizing quality ingredients, and attractive. What's not featured are any cocktails utilizing vermouth or amaro, such as Manhattans, Martinis, Negronis, and the like. They do, however, carry Lillet Blanc, Punt e Mes, and Amaro Averna, and I see some gorgeous Manhattan/Champagne-style coups. Methinks you can order off-menu here safely. The space is attractive, but still a little bare. Because there is no carpeting, sound echos father, and it's not hard to overhear a conversation across the restaurant if it's otherwise quiet. Still, the sound level in here is usually quite pleasant. The service has been great. If it's not apparent, everything is totally vegan, and if you're real strict, you can rest easy; the bar manager called every wine producer directly to confirm there is no isinglass fining, no honey is used, etc. I definitely recommend this new restaurant.