Top Vegan Restaurants in New York City

Far from the days of the side salad (hold the dressing!), today’s vegan culinary scene in New York City is fresh with flavor and innovation. In a city where the predominant vegan options were once limited to organic juice bars, New York is now home to one of the world’s most expensive vegan dining experiences.

But don’t expect absurdly priced root vegetables; we are talking about vibrant dishes that celebrate the diversity of vegan ingredients. Here’s where to go now in NYC for the best vegan food.

Divya’s Kitchen

East Village
What to get: mung soup, seasonal khichari

Divya’s Kitchen specializes in Ayurvedic vegetarian cuisine, delivering dishes that promote wellness without sacrificing flavor or ambiance. Relax in a warm atmosphere while the friendly staff introduces you to the benefits of Ayurvedic dining through rich, delicious options like deep mung soup and chakri with cilantro-mint chutney.

Omakaseed at Plant Bar

Flatiron District
What to get: The omakase

Perfecting the art of an innovative vegan dining experience, Omakaseed at Plant Bar offers a tasting menu designed for exploration. Styled for only 8 guests per hour, the vegan chef personally presents an exquisite selection of courses that include enticing options like pressed king oyster mushroom nigiri and delightful watermelon tartare. Don’t miss their creative cocktails, specifically the refreshing Feel The Beet.

Fat Choy

Lower East Side
What to get: mushroom sloppy sandwich

If you’re longing for a hearty and filling alternative to traditional sloppy joes, Fat Choy’s mushroom sloppy sandwich has you covered. With its savory, gravy-soaked mushrooms heaped between a sesame bun and paired with fresh slaw, this meal will satisfy your cravings. To elevate your experience, consider ordering the salt and pepper fried cauliflower, complemented by a creamy shallot sauce.

Urban Vegan Kitchen

East Village
What to get: buffalo wings, mac n’ cheese, chick-un and waffles

Urban Vegan Kitchen serves up delicious comfort food that will delight your palate. With a menu filled with bold flavors and deep-fried indulgences, don’t miss the seitan buffalo wings paired with ranch dressing, the creamy mac n’ cheese, and the popular chick-un served alongside waffles—all incredibly satisfying vegan renditions of classic dishes.

Jajaja

Lower East Side, West Village, Hudson Yards, Williamsburg
What to get: beet & pumpkin empanada, chorizo burrito, churritos

At Jajaja, you will find yourself tempted to order nearly everything on the menu. This vibrant all-vegan Mexican restaurant offers choices that are bursting with flavor. Highlights include their hot beet & pumpkin empanada and comforting chorizo burrito. Don’t forget to leave room for their churros served with a delectable coconut dulce de leche sauce.

Modern Love Brooklyn

Williamsburg
What to get: from their brunch menu: brekky burrito, French toast & bacon

Modern Love Brooklyn is the go-to spot for comforting vegan fare, offering a wide-ranging selection of classic dishes. Their brunch menu features delectable items like the brekky burrito and thick French toast with bacon. Be prepared, as reservations are recommended due to the restaurant’s limited seating.

Spicy Moon Vegetarian Szechuan

East Village
What to get: mapo tofu, dan dan noodles, scallion pancake

With locations in both the East and West Village, Spicy Moon is a must-visit for fans of vegan Szechuan cuisine. Their scallion pancakes are perfectly fried and serve as an excellent introduction. The mapo tofu, considered some of the best in the city, and dan dan noodles with a perfect balance of flavors should not be missed, especially during lunchtime when they offer tantalizing specials.

PLANTA Queen

NoMad
What to get: spicy tuna roll, bang bang broccoli, pineapple fried rice

A Toronto transplant, PLANTA Queen blends fun and flavor in their lively venue. Diners will appreciate both the atmosphere and the extensive list of Asian-inspired vegan options. The spicy tuna roll is a great appetizer, while the bang bang broccoli and pineapple fried rice are essential picks to ensure a fulfilling meal.

Dirt Candy

Lower East Side
What to get: the only thing on offer, the 5-course Chef’s Tasting Menu for $90 per person (note your vegan preferences)

Dirt Candy offers a unique tasting menu that showcases the creative vision of Chef Amanda Cohen. Although it’s the most costly option, the menu’s innovative flavors and artistic presentations make it a worthwhile investment for food enthusiasts. Be sure to specify vegan preferences to fully enjoy this exclusive culinary experience.