Post Overview: Best Vegan restaurants NYC
It’s estimated somewhere between three to four percent of the population in the United States is vegan. That might only seem like a small few, but it’s a growing lifestyle. So much so that vegan restaurants in NYC are popping up left and right and are luckily here to stay!
In fact New York was voted America’s most “vegan friendly” state in America and plant-based foodies travel from far and wide to try the different cuisines. With so many options it can be difficult to pin-point the best vegan restaurants in NYC.
And that’s where I hope to be some assistance. I’ll be honest – I don’t follow a plant-based diet exclusively *gasp!* however hear me out! I believe that makes me a more honest judge. Although the vegan lifestyle is growing in popularity it’s still in its grassroots stage, and vegans are limited in options.
Since I’m not sworn to the lifestyle I know the vegan restaurants in NYC I visit are damn good if they keep me coming back.
Not to mention, my best friend of 12+ years is vegan and we enjoy a meal together at least twice a week. Therefore I’m constantly trying new vegan restaurants in New York City, and if they’re good sometimes I come back on my own.
But hey – enough of the small talk. In sum I just want to say that even if you’re not vegan you should at least read this article and see if any restaurants pique your interest. If you are vegan, visit as many of these joints as you can!
Best Vegan Restaurants NYC
Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (The best neighborhoods for first timers +2 to avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s our favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
#20. Franchia Vegan Café
Murray Hill is home to one of the best vegan restaurants in NYC, named Franchia Vegan Café. Made to look like a Korean palace the neighborhood favorite is cozy and inviting, especially on a rainy day (with a hot plate of vegan pho).
They boast a 100% vegan menu with innovative takes on staple Asian dishes ready to fill your tummy full of flavor. Whether it’s a pad-thai, curry hot-pot or sushi you can rest assured you’re eating sustainable versions of your favorite plates.
Franchia also has a gluten-free menu for those who don’t want to give up the foodie lifestyle to the hands of dietary restrictions. Although it’s small there is still enough variety to satisfy even the staunchest critics.
Whether you choose to dine indoors or enjoy the luxury of their heated outdoor seating, a meal at Franchia Vegan Café is non-negotiable. As one of the best vegan restaurants in NYC you can visit for lunch, dinner or even just for a glass of vegan wine!
Address: 12 Park Ave, New York, NY 10016, United States
#19. Urban Vegan Kitchen
Sometimes you just need to pig-out, and a salad doesn’t always make the cut. Urban Vegan Kitchen (UVK) is an absolute must-stop for those looking to combine vegan-cuisine with gorge-worthy comfort classics.
Chicken and waffles, chili cheese fries, and wings are transformed into vegan masterpieces. The ability to meet ethical and dietary restrictions while remaining true to the classics makes Urban Vegan Kitchen one of the best vegan restaurants in NYC.
Even better – Urban Vegan Kitchen is booming! Their continued ascent to the upper-echelons New York City’s food scene has forced them to expand. The restaurant recently opened a second location, UVK The Bronx and has a sister location, Urban Vegan Roots in Astoria.
I should also mention that not only is Urban Vegan Kitchen one of the best vegan restaurants in NYC, but it’s also black-owned. For those of us who work towards being allies, this is a spot that cannot be missed!
Address: 41 Carmine St, New York, NY 10014, United States
#18. Caravan Of Dreams
Caravan of Dreams claims to be the oldest organic vegan restaurant in New York City, and although I couldn’t fact checked it I believe it. The East Village staple is well established as the stomping grounds for locals from all five boroughs.
Opened by Spanish expat Angel Moreno in 1991 the restaurant provides locals with mouthwatering vegan plates. There is an emphasis on raw food (which essentially means foods that are unprocessed) in an effort to serve those searching for a healthier lifestyle.
As such you’ll find a variety of salads as well as common plates made with raw ingredients (like nori rolls, tostadas and even pizza).
But the fun and healthy food doesn’t end at the entree, Caravan of Dreams could be one of the best vegan restaurants in NYC solely thanks to their drink menu. Not only do they have smoothies and juices like other vegan restaurants in New York City, but they also boast organic tonics, coffees and cocktails.
Therefore Caravan of Dreams can be one of your go-to vegan restaurants in NYC! Whether it’s for brunch with your boss or drinks with your date, the restaurant can be the hub of your vegan life!
Address: 405 E 6th St, New York, NY 10009, United States
#17. P.S. Kitchen
Conveniently located in Times Square, P.S. Kitchen is one of the cutest vegan restaurants in NYC. They have a subtle, dim-lit pink vibe going that’s a flawless blend between exclusive-lounge and girls’ brunch destination.
The food covers the gamut, you’ll find wraps, salads, burritos and burgers to fill your belly. The crowd favorite however are the wings! You’ll have to trust me on this, of all the vegan restaurants in NYC you’ll be hard pressed to find better wings than those served at P.S. Kitchen.
And if you needed more convincing that P.S. Kitchen is one of the best vegan restaurants in NYC they also donate all their profits to charity. As if sustainable, plant based food wasn’t enough they also donate to charity? If the pope was vegan he’d eat here!
For a list of P.S. Kitchen’s charity partners visit their official website.
Address: 246 W 48th St, New York, NY 10036, United States
#16. Beatnic Vegan Restaurant
If you’re looking for delicious vegan burgers you can call off the search, Beatnic is where you want to be. And fortunately for us, they have eight vegan restaurants in NYC (one in Brooklyn, seven in Manhattan).
The menu consists of what’s best described as casual American grub. Burgers, mac and cheese, wraps and salads are all par for the course. You also have a small selection of vegan and gluten free desserts available, just in case you have to finish every meal with something sweet.
Even though Beatnic is one of the most popular vegan restaurants in NYC they don’t offer reservations! Fortunately their multiple locations across New York City help remedy what would likely be a guaranteed wait to get a table.
Address: Multiple Locations in New York City
#15. Le Botaniste
At first glance Le Botaniste just looks like a cute cafe. There’s a counter where you wait in line to order like at a deli, and your food gets served on a tray you then take to your table.
It isn’t until further inspection that you realize it’s actually one of the best vegan restaurants in NYC! Thanks to a 100% plant-based menu you can order bowls and small bites to conveniently hold you after a busy day in the city.
And that’s exactly what founder Alain Coumont dreamt of when he opened the restaurant. After traveling the world he was disappointed at the lack of healthy food options. He opened the first Le Botaniste in Ghent, Belgium, a city well known for their “Thursday veggie day” where nearly half the population orders and makes plant-based food.
The resounding success in Belgium put Le Botaniste on the fast-track to becoming a global brand. After that it only took Coumont and his team four months to open one of the best vegan restaurants in NYC, first in the Upper East Side and now also in Midtown, the Upper West Side and SoHo.
Incredibly Le Botanist is not only one of the best vegan restaurants in NYC, but it’s also certified carbon-neutral. Folks can rest assured knowing the money spent on their meals is going to such a responsible business!
Address: Multiple Locations in New York City
#14. Divya’s Kitchen
For those unfamiliar, Ayurveda is a form of medicine originally from the Indian subcontinent that has spread across the globe. It focuses on holistic approaches to health and medicine, a large portion of which comes through diet.
According to Ayurveda’s teachings, the world is broken up into five elements: fire, earth, water, air, and space. In humans the elements combine to make three doshas, vata, kapha, and pitta which help make us who we are. Each individual has a unique ratio of doshas, and your strongest dosha is central to you as a person.
Now I’m not trying convert you to Ayurveda (the practice has a lot of followers, but just as many detractors) but I have to explain doshas because they’re central to Divya’s Kitchen’s menu.
As one of the most unique vegan restaurants in NYC, each menu item is made to help a dosha. You can pick a meal based off what sounds appetizing, or based off the dosha you’re trying to correct.
Example: the jicama-avocado salad is light, energizing, sweet and cool so it’s listed as a meal to help optimize your Pitta dosha. Each item on the menu lists the dosha it’s meant to correct.
With the belief that food can heal the restaurant sources organic and local ingredients to make healthy meals. Divya’s Kitchen is completely vegetarian but I still included it as one of the best vegan restaurants in NYC because it’s vegan options are extensive.
And Divya’s Kitchen doesn’t only make Indian food, the restaurant also serves plates inspired by Italian, Asian and Mediterranean cuisines.
For a more in-depth explanation of Ayurveda’s doshas (and to find out yours) read this helpful article. To learn about Divya herself and take some of her courses on Ayurveda click here.
Address: 25 1st Ave., New York, NY 10003, United States
#13. abcV
Not all vegan restaurants in NYC are exclusively sun-soaked gardens for Patagonia wearing, craft-beer drinking hipsters who live out of a van. In NYC vegan restaurants can be fancy enough to for a date night or business dinner.
abcV is the prime example. It’s a Michelin Guide restaurant and although not exclusively vegan, its plant-forward approach ensures there are plenty of vegan options available.
The restaurant was opened by renowned French Chef and author, Jean-Georges Vongerichten and features all the bells and whistles of a hot, flashy restaurant.
The open kitchen and bar give makes abcV emanate a full-of-life feeling. Furthermore, the chandeliers, upscale decor and bright white tables make it feel modern and welcoming. Be warned, the restaurant is loud and expensive but sometimes a splurge-dinner is in the cards.
As I mentioned earlier, the menu is loaded with vegetable heavy plates. Dishes like the walnut bolognese, green chickpea hummus and market beets help make abcV one of the best vegan restaurants in NYC.
Address: 38 E 19th St, New York, NY 10003, United States
#12. HanGawi
HanGawi does a superb job transporting you out of New York City and to a bonafide Korean sanctuary. Upon entry you’ll have to take your shoes off (so leave the holey socks at home) before grabbing a seat at the cozy restaurant.
Dim lit yet warm and inviting, HanGawi is one of the best vegan restaurants in NYC for an intimate meal. Whether you’re enjoying the company of a date or a good friend, there’s a safe atmoshphere that helps conversation flow.
The menu mirrors the Korean decor so you’ll find staple dishes like dumplings, tofu, and soups to fill your belly. They also have a bar, but my suggestion is to order a hot-tea to fit the snug vibe.
HanGawi advertises themselves as vegetarian, but I consider them one of the best vegan restaurants in NYC since the vast majority of its menu is vegan.
If you need a suggestion the mushroom sizzler plate is a must-order for any first time visitor. As the name suggests it comes out of the kitchen sizzling, turning heads as it steamily works its way to your table! Tasting even better than it looks the dish is the perfect shareable appetizer to get your meal started.
Address: 12 E 32nd St, New York, NY 10016, United States
#11. Terms of Endearment
Crossing the East River into Williamsburg, Brooklyn we have Terms of Endearment, one of the best vegan restaurants in NYC. Opened in 2019 it hasn’t taken this joint long to become a popular spot for plant-based goodies.
As a cafe and pastry shop Terms of Endearment is my go to when I need something sweet to go with my coffee. Only a stone’s throw from Domino Park you can always take your pastries to-go if the charming cafe is too full.
The menu is small and simple but has enough options you’re all but guaranteed to find something yummy. From the breakfast sandwiches (the bacon is good enough to pass as real) to the almond croissants, sweet and savor are both well accounted for on the menu.
Having said all that the cinnamon rolls are non-negotiable regardless of how many times I visit. Not only are they enormous but the cream is so good I’d buy it by the cup!
Address: 135 Metropolitan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249, United States
#10. Bunna Cafe
Part of the beauty of vegan restaurants in NYC is that they can come from all corners of the globe. Bunna Cafe teeters on the border between Bushwick and Williamsburg but traces its origins to Ethiopia!
Indeed, the African country is a hub of the global coffee trade and Bunna Cafe does them justice serving delectable cups of joe. Even better, the food menu consists of plant-based dishes for both brunch and dinner.
My suggestion is that if you’re visiting Bunna Cafe for the first time you visit for the Ethiopian coffee ceremony. Taking place every Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 5PM Bunna Cafe will roast, season and make coffee for everyone in attendance.
The coffee ceremony is a unique experience and something that separates Bunna Cafe from other vegan restaurants in NYC. In Ethiopia it was a way to build community, and thankfully the ceremony is doing the same in New York.
Address: 1084 Flushing Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11237, United States
#9. Avant Garden
Thanks to a modern approach to plant based diets, Avant Garden distinguishes themselves as one of the best vegan restaurants in NYC. The restaurant is featured on the Michelin Guide thanks to their ability to provide high-end dining to the under-served (but growing) crowd of vegans.
Albeit limited in both size and menu, Avant Garden is a reminder that great things come in small packages. The tiny dining room is accompanied by an outdoor patio but just because this is one of the best vegan restaurants in NYC doesn’t mean it’s the impossible to get into. Fortunately, with a bit of planning reservations are easy to get online.
Among the popular dishes you’ll find a variety of toasts, which at first glance don’t scream “fine dining” but are worth considering. Topped with unique fruits and vegetables (beets, mushrooms, prickly pear etc) the toast both looks and tastes incredible!
For those of you in the “the know” about restaurateurs, Avant Garden was founded by renowned chef Ravi DeRossi. Fortunately, Avant Garden won’t be DeRossi’s only restaurant to crack the list of best vegan restaurants in NYC. 😉
Address: 130 E 7th St, New York, NY 10009, United States
#8. Orchard Grocer
New York City is a destination for foodies in search of great delis and counter serve cafes. I mean hell, one of the most iconic restaurants in NYC is Katz Deli, which is frequently listed as the best Jewish deli in the country.
But where do vegans go when they want the quintessential, New York deli experience? They head to Orchard Grocer for some delicious sandwiches and ingredients!
As one of the best vegan restaurants in NYC Orchard Grocer has been able to capture the essence of a deli without compromising its values. Meat and cheese alternatives are available so you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for morals.
And for those who rather cook at home, Orchards Grocer also sells vegan ingredients. It’s a one-stop shop to make your apartment one of the best vegan restaurants in NYC! Not only are there meat and cheese alternatives, there’s also an array of vegan sweets to make sure you have everything you need.
Address: 78 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002, United States
#7. Beyond Sushi
Sushi is my love language, and I say that sincerely. The fastest way to my heart is with the Japanese delicacy so it’s no surprise I consider Beyond Sushi one of the best vegan restaurants in NYC.
Made entirely of plant-based ingredients the demand for the restaurant has boomed. In less than 10 years in business Beyond Sushi has expanded to three locations in Manhattan! Two is in Midtown, the other is in the Upper East Side.
They have fish substitutes so you’ll find a plethora of your favorite rolls available. The spicy tuna roll is a crowd favorite and a must-try for those of you who like things a little hot. With just enough kick to get your mouth tingling you’ll be running back to the kitchen to shake the chef’s hand in no time.
There’s also dumplings and soups along with a bar selling sake, wine and beer. And I’ll leave you with a personal tip, I’ve found the location at 37th St to be the best. The reason? It’s so close to Bryant Park you can enjoy one of the best vegan restaurants in NYC under the open sky!
Address: Multiple Locations in New York City
#6. Bar Verde
Few cuisines are as widely appreciated as Mexican food. Even the smallest, most secluded towns in the middle of nowhere will often have a place to buy tacos, burritos or enchiladas.
With that said, it’s only fair one of the best vegan restaurants in NYC be a Mexican food joint! Bar Verde not only fits the bill, it exceeds all expectations. Found in the East Village, the restaurant does Mexican food justice and has become a popular meeting ground for vegans.
Bar Verde boasts a handful of vegan tacos but takes a step further. They also have flautas (taquitos), enchiladas, burritos and fajita bowls all 100% plant based.
If you’re an early rise, Bar Verde is one of the best vegan restaurants in NYC for brunch. Not only is the food *chef’s kiss* but they have a one hour, bottomless mimosa deal for only $30!
Address: 65 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003, United States
#5. Double Zero
Is there a more quintessential New York meal than pizza? Didn’t think so. Fortunately one of the best vegan restaurants in NYC, Double Zero, just so happens to be a pizzeria.
The pies are impressively 100% plant-based and made in a wood-burning oven. They’re both healthy and tasty! Even better, every pie can be made gluten, soy and nut free so food intolerances are a non-factor.
Double Zero also makes non-pizza plates, including pasta dishes that could’ve fooled me into thinking they were made with real cheese. It’s no wonder the Michelin Guide donned Double Zero a Bib-Gourmand rating, given to restaurants that offer a good value.
My only complaint with Double Zero is that their seating is mostly stools. Sitting on them for a while can be uncomfortable, but not to the extent of knocking them off the list of the best vegan restaurants in NYC.
Address: 65 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003, United States
#4. Jungle Cafe
Greenpoint, Brooklyn is lucky to have Jungle Cafe, one of the best vegan restaurants in NYC. The joint is colorful and inviting from the second you arrive and the staff all seem to enjoy their jobs.
The food is simple and unfussy yet loaded with flavor. Jungle Cafe’s menu if full of things I could likely make at home, but I don’t mean that in a bad way. To me it just means the meals are straightforward.
The jungle burrito is a masterpiece worthy of being displayed in the MET. It’s made with black beans, Mexican rice, pico, guacamole, seitan, vegan cheese and mixed veggies. Since I live in Manhattan I’ll often take two to make my trip worth it, one to enjoy in the moment and another to take home.
Jungle Cafe is also one of the most unique vegan restaurants in NYC because you have the option to enjoy your meal buffet style! Each day features a different cuisine (Indian, Mexican, Dominican Republic) so check their Instagram for the most update schedules.
Address: 131 Greenpoint Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222, United States
#3. Planta
Planta is a chain of restaurants founded in 2016 that is slowly taking the country by storm. Created with the idea that dining should be an unguilty pleasure, they focus on making healthy meals you can feel good about eating.
Two of the best vegan restaurants in NYC are a part of the chain. One is Planta in Williamsburg Brooklyn and the second is Planta Queen in NoMad (North of Madison Square Park). A third location, Planta Cocina, is expected to open soon SoHo.
If you’re curious why they all have different names allow me to explain. Planta Queen is a Planta restaurant exclusively focusing on Asian inspired dishes, Planta Cocina covers Latin cuisine and Planta is all encompassing.
Bear this in mind when deciding which vegan restaurants in NYC you want to visit. Planta Cocina and Planta Queen will have totally different menus so read them online before heading out the door!
Address: 15 W 27th St, New York, NY 10001, United States
#2. Ladybird
Perfectly posh and pink, you need to head to Ladybird for the best vegan brunch in the East Village. The tapas bar not only makes delicious plant-based plates, but the drinks are worth the trip alone.
With velvet seats, gold accents and flowers galore Ladybird is also one of the cutest vegan restaurants in NYC. Every time I visit with my friends we end up playing the “one more drink” game because the vibe is immaculate.
Food options rotate constantly since the cuisine relies heavily on in-season produce, but the maitake buns are a must-try. And if you like whipped coffee you’re going to love Ladybird, because they make some of the best.
And allow me to give a small suggestion, before heading home be sure to check out the bathroom. If there was a competition between vegan restaurants in NYC for the prettiest bathroom Ladybird would take home the gold.
Address: 111 E 7th St, New York, NY 10009
#1. The Butcher’s Daughter
The Butcher’s Daughter first came onto my radar I was looking for the best happy hour deals in the West Village. Little did I know it’s also one of the best vegan restaurants in NYC!
The restaurant is plant-forward so there’s a plethora of vegan and vegetarian options. The Butcher’s Burger (made from a vegetable & black bean patty) has me weak in my knees! The burger and the cauliflower Cacio e Pepe are the reason I consider this one of the best vegan restaurants in NYC.
The happy hour deal is also worth mentioning here. Expect to find cocktails for $10, beer for $6 and a handful of food options ranging between $10-$14. If you’re in search of New York City vegan restaurants and are on a budget, The Butcher’s Daughter is the creme de la creme.
Address: 581 Hudson St, New York, NY 10014
Quick recap of the best vegan restaurants in New York City
- The Butcher’s Daughter
- Ladybird
- Planta
- Jungle Cafe
- Double Zero
- Bar Verde
- Beyond Sushi
- Orchard Grocer
- Avant Garden
- Bunna Cafe
- Terms of Endearment
- Hangawai
- AbcV
- Divvya’s Kitchen
- Le Botaniste
- Beatnic Vegan Restaurant
- P.S. Kitchen
- Caravan of Dreams
- Urban Vegan Kitchen
- Franchia Vegan Café
Vegan restaurants NYC (Helpful Map)
And there you have it, folks! My roundup of the best vegan restaurants in NYC. I hope you found the article helpful. If you know of any hidden gems let me know!
Leave a Reply