Angel Moreno, founder of Caravan of Dreams in the East Village, has long envisioned a world where food fosters compassion, health and sustainability. His restaurant is more than a dining destination—it’s a sanctuary for nourishment in every sense, blending plant-based cuisine with live music, yoga and meditation to feed body, mind and spirit.

From the start, Moreno and his team have been dedicated to using the highest-quality ingredients while staying informed on the latest in health and nutrition. For instance, after learning that bananas reduce flavanol levels when blended with other fruits, he called a staff meeting and they promptly adjusted smoothie recipes. Similarly, upon discovering Lindt’s 100 percent unsweetened cocoa bars, he incorporated them into Caravan’s signature chocolate blend. 

Both examples reflect an unwavering commitment to mindful, health-conscious cuisine—constantly evolving, growing and rooted in the belief that food is a source of sustenance and energy, best made and consumed with intention.

Moreno champions powerhouse ingredients like purple cabbage, beets and radishes. “Purple cabbage is packed with minerals and amino acids, making it excellent for brain and liver health,” he shares. “Beets, rich in nitric oxide, improve circulation and oxygenation, aiding muscle recovery. And radishes, like arugula, contain sulfur, which purifies the kidneys and benefits the skin and hair.”

In fact, he loves radishes so much he’s been making radish juice, which he hopes to introduce as a menu item at Caravan. Here’s his simple yet powerful recipe:

Radish Detox Juice

• 5 to 8 radishes

• 2 lemons (juiced separately)

• 500 ml water

• 2 to 3 dates (for sweetness)

Blend radishes, water and dates until smooth. Strain if needed. Stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice. For optimal benefits, drink on an empty stomach for two days to cleanse the blood and detoxify the kidneys. Moreno recommends using all organic ingredients and drinking it one hour before breakfast for maximum absorption.

Moreno adds, “It’s always the same principle: food is medicine, and medicine is food. This is so obvious that even the simplest, most ordinary things—like vegetables or little fruits—are packed with minerals and antioxidants. They are pure medicine. The body becomes pure medicine when food is consumed properly, in the right amount, and in the right way.”

Angel Moreno, owner of Caravan of Dreams, is dedicated to organic, vegan food and fostering community. Visit the restaurant at 405 E. 6th St., NYC. For more information, call 212-254-1613 or email [email protected].