New York City, often considered the culinary capital of the world, has embraced the vegan movement with a fervor that matches its diverse and dynamic food scene. From gourmet dining to casual eateries, the city’s vegan restaurants offer a tantalizing array of plant-based dishes that cater to every palate.
Whether you’re a lifelong vegan, curious about plant-based dining, or simply seeking healthier options, NYC’s vegan restaurants promise an unforgettable culinary adventure. Here, we delve into the top 10 vegan restaurants in New York City, each offering a unique and delightful dining experience.
1. Superiority Burger
Located in the heart of the East Village, Superiority Burger has garnered a cult following for its innovative approach to plant-based fast food. Chef Brooks Headley, a former pastry chef at Del Posto, has created a menu that revolves around his signature Superiority Burger. This compact eatery serves a variety of veggie-forward dishes that are as flavorful as they are satisfying.
The Superiority Burger itself is a marvel of texture and taste, combining a crispy patty with tangy pickles, fresh lettuce, and a zesty sauce. The menu also features an ever-changing selection of sides, such as burnt broccoli salad and roasted carrots with yogurt and mint. For dessert, don’t miss out on the gelato, which comes in unique flavors like burnt caramel and pistachio.
2. Avant Garden
Avant Garden, also located in the East Village, offers a fine dining experience with a focus on vegetable-centric dishes. Chef Will Horowitz’s creations are a testament to the versatility and beauty of plant-based ingredients. The restaurant’s intimate setting and artful presentations make it a perfect spot for a special night out.
The menu at Avant Garden is designed to highlight the natural flavors of vegetables, with standout dishes like the Mushroom Toast, which features a medley of wild mushrooms on house-made bread, and the Artichoke with sunflower seed risotto, which is both creamy and satisfying. Each dish is thoughtfully crafted and beautifully plated, making Avant Garden a must-visit for any vegan food enthusiast.
3. Modern Love
Modern Love, located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, is the brainchild of renowned vegan chef Isa Chandra Moskowitz. Known for her bestselling cookbooks and innovative recipes, Moskowitz has created a cozy, inviting space that serves hearty, comforting vegan fare. The restaurant’s motto, “Swanky Vegan Comfort Food,” perfectly encapsulates its approach to dining.
Popular dishes at Modern Love include the Mac & Shews, a creamy cashew-based mac and cheese that is as indulgent as its dairy counterpart, and the Seitan Marsala, which features tender seitan in a rich mushroom sauce. The restaurant also offers a selection of mouthwatering desserts, such as the Brooklyn Blackout Cake, a decadent chocolate cake that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
4. Jerrell’s BETR BRGR
What started as a food truck has now become a beloved brick-and-mortar establishment in SoHo. Jerrell’s BETR BRGR is known for serving some of the best vegan burgers in New York City. The restaurant’s mission is simple: to create delicious, plant-based burgers that are accessible to everyone.
The menu at Jerrell’s BETR BRGR features a variety of burger options, each made with a house-made patty and served with crispy fries. The BETR BRGR is a standout, with its savory patty, fresh toppings, and a perfectly toasted bun. The restaurant also offers a selection of sides, such as sweet potato fries and onion rings, making it a great spot for a casual, satisfying meal.
5. PLNT Burger
Founded by celebrity chef Spike Mendelsohn, PLNT Burger aims to bring high-quality, plant-based burgers to the masses. Located in the East Village, this fast-casual restaurant offers a variety of delicious burgers, sandwiches, and sides, all made with fresh, sustainable ingredients.
The Classic PLNT Burger is a crowd favorite, featuring a juicy plant-based patty, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and PLNT sauce on a soft bun. For those looking for something a bit different, the Crispy Chik’n Sandwich offers a delightful crunch and flavor. PLNT Burger also offers a range of sides, including savory waffle fries and creamy mac and cheese, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.
6. Jajaja Plantas Mexicana
For a vibrant and lively dining experience, head to Jajaja Plantas Mexicana. With locations in the Lower East Side and Williamsburg, this restaurant offers creative vegan takes on Mexican classics. The colorful decor and lively atmosphere make it a perfect spot for a fun night out with friends.
The menu at Jajaja features a variety of flavorful dishes, such as the Mole Burrito, which is filled with black beans, plantains, and mole sauce, and the Chorizo Tacos, which are packed with spicy plant-based chorizo and topped with fresh salsa. The restaurant also offers an array of refreshing cocktails and mocktails, making it a great place to enjoy a meal and unwind.
7. Dirt Candy
Chef Amanda Cohen’s Dirt Candy is a trailblazer in the world of vegetable-forward cuisine. Located on the Lower East Side, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers a tasting menu that changes with the seasons, ensuring that each visit is a unique experience. Cohen’s inventive techniques and commitment to fresh, local produce have earned Dirt Candy a loyal following and critical acclaim.
The tasting menu at Dirt Candy is a journey through the possibilities of vegetable cuisine, with dishes like the Carrot Slider, a sweet and savory creation that highlights the natural sweetness of carrots, and the Brussels Sprouts Tacos, which feature crispy sprouts with a tangy sauce. Each dish is a work of art, both in terms of flavor and presentation, making Dirt Candy a must-visit for any food lover.
8. Cadence
Cadence, located in the East Village, brings a Southern flair to vegan dining. Chef Shenarri Freeman has crafted a menu that pays homage to her Virginia roots, offering plant-based versions of classic soul food dishes. The restaurant’s cozy, welcoming atmosphere makes it a great spot for a comforting meal.
Standout dishes at Cadence include the Smoked Grits, which are rich and creamy with a hint of smokiness, and the Fried Oyster Mushroom, which offers a crispy, satisfying crunch. The Southern Fried Lasagna, made with layers of pasta, vegetables, and a savory sauce, is a unique and delicious twist on a classic comfort food. With its warm hospitality and flavorful dishes, Cadence is a true gem in NYC’s vegan dining scene.
9. Double Zero
Part of celebrity chef Matthew Kenney’s plant-based empire, Double Zero in the East Village specializes in artisanal vegan pizza. The restaurant’s wood-fired pizzas are topped with house-made vegan cheeses and fresh, high-quality ingredients, making it a top choice for pizza lovers.
The Truffle Cashew Cream pizza is a standout, featuring a creamy truffle sauce, cashew cheese, and a mix of seasonal vegetables. The Margherita, with its simple yet flavorful combination of tomato sauce, cashew mozzarella, and fresh basil, is another favorite. Double Zero also offers a selection of salads, small plates, and desserts, making it a well-rounded dining experience.
10. PS Kitchen
Located in Midtown, PS Kitchen combines delicious vegan cuisine with a mission to give back. All profits from the restaurant are donated to charity, making dining here a feel-good experience. The menu features a variety of globally inspired dishes, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.
Popular dishes at PS Kitchen include the Korean BBQ Burger, which features a savory patty topped with kimchi and Korean BBQ sauce, and the Buffalo Cauliflower Wings, which are crispy and tangy with just the right amount of heat. The restaurant also offers a selection of cocktails and mocktails, making it a great spot for both lunch and dinner.
New York City’s vegan restaurant scene is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself, offering a wealth of options for every taste and occasion. From gourmet dining to casual eats, these top 10 vegan restaurants showcase the creativity and versatility of plant-based cuisine.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, make sure to explore these culinary gems for an unforgettable vegan dining experience. As the vegan movement continues to grow, NYC’s restaurants are leading the way, proving that plant-based food can be both delicious and innovative.
Lance has been passionate about the plant-based diet and we have been following a whole food plant-based diet for over 5 years. We focus on health, natural healing, weight management, animal rights, and the health of the planet and environment by focusing on whole plant-based foods and sustainable practices.
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