It's easy to intellectualize the reasons to eat healthier and the ways to do it. Yet, honestly, I have not been a very healthy eater as of late. Why is it that I can see the merits of eating foods that are healthful but I haven't fully integrated these concepts into daily practice?

The short answer is, I suppose, is that it's easier said than done.

Which is why I was elated to find Clean Plates N.Y.C. This just-released NYC restaurant guide carefully reviews eateries across the city, recommending those that are truly healthful and who source their food responsibly and ethically (bonus!).

Lest you think that such places exist, this is not some paper-thin tome - though it's succinct and portable, perfect for keeping in your bag or at your desk for those last-minute dinner plans. Jared Koch, with New York City food critic Alex Van Beuren, have painstakingly done all the hard stuff: find restaurants that live up to your ideals (healthy! local! sustainable!) and serve delicious food.

When I first saw the book, I bought it from Jared himself in about 10 seconds. The book is easy to read and supplemented with helpful tips on eating better and advice that's easy to stomach! The restaurant reviews are cleanly designed with icons to make it as easy to read as possible: pricing, location, type of food, hours and website, etc. Nestled in between reviews are mini-profiles on chefs and the book also tips you off on grocery and health food stores.

I highly recommend it! And when he comes out with the Boston edition, I'll be sending copies to my family!

Meet Jared in person on Friday, June 19 at 7:30pm before the 8pm performance of Give Us Bread, playing at the Milagro Theater, 107 Suffolk St. (between Rivington & Delancey) on the Lower East Side. Tickets at smarttix.com.