New York City is one of the top travel destinations in the world and for good reason—it’s got some of the best art, culture, and food on the planet! Nicknamed the Big Apple, NYC is home to more than 8 million people across five distinct boroughs (Queens, Brooklyn, The Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island). With more than 800 languages spoken in Queens alone, NYC is truly a melting pot of different cultures and cuisines. But what are the best vegan restaurants NYC has to offer? We’re here to tell you!
If you’re planning a trip here or just love learning about regional foods, this NYC vegan guide will give you a tiny taste of the city’s best offerings!
The bustling city of New York is known for many things and while you’d be right to think pizza and bagels right off the bat, deli food is also a vital New York City staple, especially late at night. While there are a few places to get super late-night vegan options around Gotham such as at the occasional vegan-friendly bodega, we’re focusing on deli spots that are 100% vegan here.
Located in the deli-lined streets of the Lower East Side, Orchard Grocer is an all-vegan market with a deli counter! On their menu, you can expect to find a wide variety of sandwiches, salads, pastries, and best of all, vegan soft serve with seasonal flavors (mmm). They also feature products from an extensive selection of vegan favorites including The Herbivorous Butcher, Vegan Rob’s, Yeah Dawg, and Miyoko’s in addition to more unique items such as vegan caviar, local vegan cheeses, and a wide variety of dairy-free sweets. They also feature a daily special on their deli menu! Past specials have included double-decker Beyond Burgers, tofu-fried chick’n sandwiches, and the versatile JUST Egg on a vegan croissant!
Across the bridge in the neighborhood of East Williamsburg, Brooklyn is Seitan’s Helper. This queer and worker-owned vegan deli specializes in incredible house-made vegan meats and sandwiches. Vegan versions of hearty pepperoni, mortadella, versatile ham, and much more are available by the ½ pound if you want to enjoy their delicious seitan at home. In their deli case, you can also find veganized comfort classics such as pasta or potato salad along with other savory specials. On a budget and in a rush? Their grab-and-go sandwiches are pay-what-you-wish! How awesome!
Our NYC vegan guide could be solely dedicated to all of the incredible vegan Asian restaurant options available around the city! With delicious dim sum spots and no shortage of sriracha-heavy dishes, NYC is a haven for amazing Asian cuisine. Below we’ve included two spots that are very much worth your time in different parts of the city. Plus, you can find delicious vegan options on most Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Filipino, Malaysian, Singaporean, Indonesian, Cambodian, and other Asian restaurant menus.
Located in the same area of Brooklyn as Seitan Rising, Amituofo serves a wide variety of delicious vegan dishes. Our personal favorites include their Traditional Fried Rice and Grilled “Fish” Banh Mi. And once it starts to cool down, their Curry “Chicken” Noodle Soup is an absolute must! You can also find Chinese classes such as Smashed Cucumbers and Steamed Red Bean Paste Buns. You can also get Kimchi Fries, which are a delight all on their own! Want to have a Beyond Burger with a side of Spring Rolls? You can do that here at Amituofo!
New York City vegan sushi chain Beyond Sushi has evolved its menu quite a bit since its inception in 2012. In addition to vegan sushi made with ingredients like hijiki, vegan tuna, and eggplant, you can now also enjoy dishes such as Glazed Impossible Meatballs, Nori Tacos, and Ube Cashew Cheesecake. They even have four locations to choose from depending on where you are in the city!
Franchia is a vegan and vegetarian Korean fusion restaurant in New York City, offering a casual and elegant dining experience. Located in Midtown Manhattan, Franchia’s menu features a blend of traditional Korean flavors with modern influences, creating unique plant-based dishes. Some of their standout menu items include japchae dumplings, spicy kimchi pancakes, various stone bowl rice options, and Korean chili tofu. With its tranquil, tea house-inspired decor and an extensive selection of teas, Franchia provides a peaceful retreat in the bustling city, perfect for enjoying innovative and flavorful vegan cuisine.
Hangawi is a vegan Korean restaurant in New York City (although it says it’s vegetarian), offering an authentic and serene dining experience that reflects its rich culinary traditions. The menu features an array of plant-based dishes, including favorites like Korean pancakes, black truffle dumplings, various tofu dishes, hot pots, and more. With its tranquil atmosphere and beautifully presented dishes, Hangawi provides a unique and immersive dining experience that transports guests to the heart of Korean culture.
In NYC’s Chinatown area lives Lily’s Vegan Pantry, formerly known as May Wah Vegetarian Market. This vegan Asian market features a huge variety of spices, snacks, and more mock meats than you can shake a leaf at. If you’ve ever wanted to try vegan abalone, or a vegan lobster shaped like one, this is the spot to hit up! They also partner with local vegan vendors such as Kozy Toasts and Veggie Grub.
Looking for a little spice in your life? Vegan Szechuan restaurant Spicy Moon features a menu full of vegan spins on traditional dishes such as Zha Jiang Noodles, Mapo Tofu with Beyond Beef, and much, much more. And no worries if your spice meter is on the lower end—you can ask for lightly spiced!
The beauty of the Big Apple is that there’s room for a little bit of everything. If you’re craving something on the greener side or need a quick caffeine fix, we’ve got great news! These vegan cafés in NYC will hit just the spot.
Nestled in the cozy neighborhood of Greenpoint, Brooklyn, Jungle Cafe features a delicious list of juices, smoothies, burgers, tacos, and more! They also have a vegan buffet with a rotating weekly menu so if you want a little bit of everything, you can have it! They even offer a children’s menu, which is a rare feature of many independent restaurants in New York!
With locations in downtown and uptown Manhattan, Peacefood Cafe offers the whole family a variety of fresh dishes, juices, and desserts. An absolute must-try is their award-winning Chickpea Fries, which are among some of the only ones you can find in New York! Other notable dishes include their Seitan Medallion Panini, Pumpkin Quiche, and Fluffy Quinoa Salad.
Sometimes you just want to grab your veggie burger and then get on with your day! Luckily there’s no need to settle for measly vegan options in the City of New York when it comes to fast food. With more spots opening up every day, you can truly have it your way in this bustling and brilliant city.
Beatnic is a fast casual chain around NYC that serves plant-based burgers, fries, sweet potato mac and cheeze and more! Formerly by CHLOE., Beatnic rebranded in 2021 after a years-long legal battle with renowned chef Chloe Coscarelli who was originally behind by CHLOE but was ousted from her own business in 2017.
Caravan of Dreams is a long-standing vegan and organic restaurant in the East Village, NYC, known for its eclectic menu that combines global flavors with a focus on health and sustainability. The menu features a variety of dishes, including dishes like their huitlacoche & chorizo quesadilla, raw nori rolls, and cashew lemon pasta. The restaurant also offers an extensive selection of organic wines, juices, and teas, making it a popular spot for those seeking a holistic dining experience. Established in 1991, Caravan of Dreams remains a beloved destination for its warm, bohemian atmosphere and commitment to nourishing, plant-based cuisine.
Philadelphia-based vegan fast casual chain HipCityVeg made their NYC debut in October 2021 and features favorites like their Blackened Chipotle Fajita Wrap and Ziggy Burger. Tasty breakfast specials include veganized versions of BEC (bacon, egg, and cheese) along with other sweet and savory sandwiches. Be sure not to sleep on their banana whip or seasonal shakes!
Ro’s Diner is a modern vegan restaurant in New York City, offering a fresh take on classic American diner fare. Located in the heart of the city, Ro’s Diner serves up plant-based versions of comfort food favorites, making it a go-to spot for vegans and non-vegans alike. The menu features vegan comfort food dishes like chicken and waffles, corn beef hash, French toast, and chicken parm. With its retro-inspired decor and a welcoming atmosphere, Rosie’s Diner delivers a nostalgic dining experience with a contemporary, plant-based twist.
Seasoned Vegan is a Harlem-based vegan restaurant that offers a unique twist on vegan comfort food by creating plant-based versions of traditional Southern and Caribbean dishes. Founded by mother-son duo Brenda and Aaron Beener, the restaurant focuses on hearty, flavorful dishes BBQ “crawfish” and fermented soy protein nuggets, using innovative techniques to replicate the textures and tastes of meat. The cozy, welcoming atmosphere makes it a community favorite, dedicated to serving delicious food in the heart of New York City.
Urban Vegan Kitchen is a vibrant, fully vegan restaurant located in the Chelsea neighborhood of Manhattan, offering a creative and comforting menu. It features popular items like chicken and waffles, a roasted mushroom sandwich, and a fully gluten-free section. The restaurant’s atmosphere is casual and eclectic, often hosting live events and fostering a community-oriented vibe. Urban Vegan Kitchen is committed to using high-quality, sustainable ingredients, making it a go-to spot for delicious and ethical dining in the heart of New York City.
Vegan Grill NYC is a laid-back eatery located in the East Village, specializing in plant-based comfort foods that are both satisfying and flavorful. The menu features crowd-pleasers like the a nacho platter, creamy Alfredo pasta, and faux-meaty gyros. This spot is perfect for those looking to enjoy quick, hearty meals without compromising on taste or quality. With its relaxed vibe and extensive menu, Vegan Grill NYC has become a popular choice for those seeking delicious vegan options in the neighborhood.
Vegan On The Fly is a fast-casual vegan restaurant in New York City, offering a unique blend of Mediterranean and American comfort food. Located in Midtown Manhattan, this eatery is known for its quick service and flavorful plant-based dishes that cater to a variety of tastes. The menu includes popular items like the vegan gyro made with seasoned seitan, Nashville hot chicken, and a Beyond Mac bowl. With its convenient location and satisfying options, Vegan On The Fly is a perfect spot for a quick, delicious, and entirely vegan meal on the go.
Sometimes finding vegan-friendly brunch options can be a little tricky. It’s easy to get stuck with a basic bowl of fruit or some dry toast and little else. But here in NYC, vegan brunch options are not only plentiful but they’re absolutely delicious! Whether you’re in the mood for a plant-based scramble or vegan crêpes, The City That Never Sleeps is here to help you wake up.
Located in the heart of NoMad and Williamsburg, PLANTA Queen is a hotspot for inventive, plant-based brunches in New York City. With an entirely vegan menu, PLANTA Queen serves up a wide variety of Asian-inspired dishes and brunch classics that pack serious flavor.
You can indulge in French toast, breakfast burritos, bao sliders, or their famous avocado lime tartare. For something savory, don’t miss the bang bang broccoli or chick’n and waffles. The NoMad location is just steps away from iconic landmarks like Madison Square Park and the Empire State Building, making it the perfect brunch destination whether you’re local or visiting.
Le Botaniste, with multiple locations across NYC, offers a fully vegan, organic brunch that’s both wholesome and flavorful. Known for its apothecary-inspired vibe, this plant-based eatery serves up globally influenced dishes like spicy chili con carne, vegetable tajine, and refreshing veggie sushi rolls.
For lighter fare, try the young coconut ceviche or a hearty chia pudding. Whether you’re craving something savory or a bit more refreshing, Le Botaniste’s brunch options are perfect for a weekend recharge. With its commitment to sustainability and vibrant, nutritious offerings, it’s a must-visit for conscious eaters in New York.
It’s no surprise that NYC is home to several upscale vegan restaurants. Some of them are even Michelin star-rated, so you know their food and flavors will be exceptional!
Anixi is an upscale vegan restaurant in New York City that offers a refined Mediterranean dining experience. With a focus on plant-based ingredients, Anixi’s menu features a creative fusion of Greek, Turkish, and Lebanese flavors, all crafted to delight the senses. The restaurant’s chic and contemporary decor complements the elevated dishes, providing a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere. Located in the heart of Manhattan, Anixi is a destination for all food lovers seeking innovative and flavorful Mediterranean cuisine.
Avant Garden is a sophisticated vegan restaurant located in New York City’s East Village, offering a creative, plant-based dining experience. The menu focuses on elevated small plates that highlight fresh, seasonal vegetables, with dishes like scorched cauliflower, cremini mushroom toast, and lobster mushroom risotto. With its intimate setting and artfully plated dishes, Avant Garden provides a refined yet approachable atmosphere in New York City.
Coletta is a vegan Italian restaurant in New York City, serving up a contemporary twist on traditional Italian cuisine. Located in the heart of the city, Coletta’s menu features a variety of plant-based dishes, including favorites like wild mushroom truffle pizza, sun choke and scallop risotto, and eggplant lasagna. Each dish is crafted with care, using high-quality, vegan ingredients to deliver rich flavors and an authentic Italian dining experience. With its chic and welcoming ambiance, Coletta is an ideal spot for enjoying a flavorful, plant-based meal in NYC.
Serving nothing but vegetables, this restaurant managed to acquire a Michelin Star, and for good reason. Their single tasting menu changes seasonally but their quality is consistently out of this world with bold and beautiful flavors.
Considered one of the top restaurants in the world, this Michelin-starred restaurant went entirely plant-based just a few years ago, thanks to celebrated chef Daniel Humm embarking on a mission to protect the environment one plate at a time. You can expect dishes that make you feel as satisfied as a meal with meat would. Rice porridge with celtuce, a brightly flavorful beet dish, and an amaranth-seed-and-sweet-pea served with a creamy fermented almond cream and pea-miso puree are just a few of the many amazing dishes on the menu.
This vegan tapas and wine bar has a seasonally rotating menu that highlights fresh produce alongside its classic offerings. Whether you want brunch or dinner, both menus feature mouthwatering options from matcha waffles and JUST Egg frittatas to potato au gratin and truffle mac & cheese.
Willow is a vegan restaurant in Chelsea, NYC, offering a modern take on classic bistro comfort food, all made with 100% plant-based ingredients. The menu features creative interpretations of familiar dishes, like truffle mac and cheese, New England clam chowder, BBQ brisket, and salmon crudo, offering an elevated dining experience in a casual, inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re dining in or opting for delivery or takeout, Willow’s thoughtfully crafted dishes are designed to delight and satisfy. Located in the heart of Chelsea, Willow is the perfect spot for a relaxed yet refined vegan meal.
With more than 23 restaurants per square mile, the chances of you finding a vegan restaurant that features house-made vegan meats and cheeses are higher than in most places. These two restaurants have totally raised the bar for excellent vegan fare that won’t break the bank.
In the vibrant West Village tucked between Gay Street and Waverly Place is Delice & Sarrasin, a completely vegan French restaurant that serves traditional fare with a plant-based twist. You can find French classics such as veganized escargot, buckwheat crêpes, coq au vin made from pea protein, steak tartare, and much more. They also feature a house-made vegan cheese plate which is absolutely divine. If there’s one restaurant not to miss on a trip to NYC, this is it.
Owned by the incomparable Isa Chandra Moskowitz, Modern Love offers comfort classes with an elevated touch. Vegan mozzarella sticks, seitan burgers, and “Mac & Shews” are among the many delicious items on Modern Love’s meticulous menu. Looking for a Beyond or Impossible patty? You won’t find it here! If you ever find yourself in Omaha, you can also visit their flagship restaurant!
Vegan Mexican food in NYC? This city truly has it all! While you may not find as wide an array of restaurants compared to cities such as Austin or San Diego, New York does have some truly appetizing options when it comes to vegan Mexican fare.
With locations throughout NYC, Jajaja delivers serious south of the border flavor with delicious Mexican dishes such as jackfruit tamales, enchiladas mole, and Mexican street corn. You can also find all-day brunch options including chilaquiles and brunch tacos along with an impressive drink menu. Looking for vegan churros? You’ll find them here!
100% soy and gluten-free, this Matthew Kenney restaurant is perfect for those who are looking for vegan Mexican fare rooted in truly whole foods. Items such as quinoa chorizo, napolitos, and maitake enmolada can be found on the menu along with delicious desserts such as flan and churros with chocolate.
You don’t need to search far for some excellent vegan soul food in the City of New York. Home to large a large Black population with roots in the West Indies, Africa, and Puerto Rico, New York serves up some fantastic Southern fare.
Cadence is located in New York City’s East Village, specializing in Southern and soul food-inspired vegan cuisine. The restaurant offers a menu created by James Beard Award nominee Chef Shenarri Freeman, featuring dishes like Southern fried lasagna, smoked grits, and maple buttermilk cornbread. With a focus on flavors deeply rooted in tradition, Cadence combines plant-based ingredients with the rich culinary heritage of the American South. The intimate dining space and carefully curated dishes make Cadence a unique and unforgettable destination!
In the neighborhood of Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn, is Black and woman-owned Greedi Vegan, a soul food restaurant with an intentional touch. Menu highlights include the Greedi Beef Burger, Crab Cake Sandwich, Watermelon Arugula Salad, and Fried Okra Bites. They also have a robust juice menu and even serve a gluten-free mac and cheese! In the mood for drinks and dessert? Greedi Vegan has it all!
Located in historic Harlem, Uptown Veg is a casual vegan soul food restaurant that features delicious plant-based spins on classic dishes. You can enjoy items from their buffet such as vegan mac and cheese, chick’n drumsticks, chickpea curry, and much more. They also feature signature Jamaican patties filled with soy chicken, soy fish, kale, callaloo, or lentil. Don’t sleep on their “chicken” wrap or macaroni salad!
No NYC vegan guide would be complete without the mention of pizza! The city is home to two 100% vegan pizzerias in Brooklyn and Manhattan.
Matthew Kenney’s Double Zero features an extensive menu of wood fired pizzas and finely crafted Italian staples in the East Village. They can also make any pizza free of gluten and nuts! Pizzas such as Pepperoni or Squash Blossom are served with artisan cashew cheese by default but can be made with rice cheese upon request. They also serve a variety of pasta, antipasti, and salads along with a really nice brunch menu.
The brainchild of the owners behind Brooklyn’s Champs and Philly’s Blackbird Pizza, Screamer’s serves some of the finest slices in NYC. With locations in Greenpoint and Crown Heights, Screamer’s features pizzas with toppings like housemade seitan, Violife cheese, garlic oil, and more. There are slightly different items available depending on which location you’re in. Crown Heights has a more extensive menu, featuring sandwiches such as a Philly Cheesesteak, a Kale Caesar Salad, and fried items.
Our NYC vegan guide would not be complete without a dessert list! From vegan soft serve to raw cakes, here are just a few of the many vegan dessert spots to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Clementine Bakery is a vegan-owned and operated bakery located in the heart of Clinton Hill, Brooklyn. Established in 2019, this bakery offers a wide range of house-made vegan pastries, breads, and cakes, using organic and locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. In addition to its baked goods, Clementine Bakery also serves a variety of vegan sandwiches, salads, and beverages, creating a warm and inclusive space for the community to enjoy delicious plant-based fare.
Confectionery! NYC is a vegan chocolate and pastry shop located in the East Village, born from the collaboration between Lagusta’s Luscious and Sweet Maresa’s. The shop specializes in artisanal vegan chocolates, macarons, and other confections, all handcrafted with a commitment to using fair trade, organic, and ethically sourced ingredients. Confectionery! NYC is dedicated to offering unique and decadent vegan treats in a charming, intimate setting, making it a beloved destination for dessert lovers in New York City.
Dun-Well Doughnuts, located in Brooklyn, New York, is renowned as one of the first all-vegan doughnut shops in the city. Founded in 2011, the shop offers a wide variety of classic and creative doughnut flavors, all made from scratch with high-quality, plant-based ingredients. Dun-Well Doughnuts is committed to providing delicious, ethical treats in a cozy, old-timey setting, making it a favorite spot for vegans and non-vegans alike who crave indulgent, gourmet doughnuts.
Erin McKenna’s Bakery, originally known as BabyCakes NYC, is a pioneering vegan and gluten-free bakery with locations in New York City and beyond. Established in 2005, the bakery specializes in creating allergen-friendly baked goods, including cupcakes, cookies, and doughnuts, all made without refined sugar, gluten, dairy, or eggs. Erin McKenna’s Bakery is dedicated to serving delicious treats that cater to various dietary needs, offering a welcoming space for those with food sensitivities and anyone who enjoys quality, plant-based desserts.
Happy Zoe Vegan Bakery is a fully vegan bakery located in Brooklyn, New York, known for its diverse range of plant-based desserts and pastries. The bakery offers a wide variety of treats, including cakes, cookies, and pastries, all made from scratch using natural, organic, and non-GMO ingredients. Happy Zoe Vegan Bakery is dedicated to creating delicious, cruelty-free desserts that cater to a variety of dietary preferences, providing a welcoming space for vegans and those with food sensitivities alike.
Rawsome Treats is a vegan bakery in New York City specializing in raw, plant-based desserts that are both delicious and health-conscious. Founded by Chef Marlie Wasserman, the bakery offers a variety of raw cakes, tarts, and other treats made from organic, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free ingredients. Each dessert is crafted with a focus on wholesome, natural ingredients, providing a guilt-free indulgence for those seeking vegan, raw, and gluten-free options. Rawsome Treats is committed to creating desserts that are as nutritious as they are flavorful.
Urban Dessert Lab, located in New York City, is the world’s first oat milk soft-serve ice cream shop, offering a revolutionary plant-based dessert experience. Founded by sisters Zahra and Victoria, the shop is both black and women-owned, specializing in creating creamy, dairy-free soft serve made from oat milk, available in a variety of flavors and customizable with a wide range of toppings. Urban Dessert Lab is dedicated to providing indulgent, sustainable, and allergen-friendly desserts that cater to everyone, in a modern and inviting setting.
The following vegan-friendly restaurants are our honorable mentions! These establishments aren’t 100% vegan but still offer substantial plant-based options and are totally worth a visit!
We hope you’ll be able to find some of the best vegan restaurants NYC has to offer with this helpful vegetarian, vegan, vegan-friendly, and gluten-free friendly guide. There’s so much great food in this amazing, bustling city!
Featured image credit: Modern Love
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Please update this page. Many of these are now (and have been for some time) out of business, on hiatus, or have changed names. And, how could you leave out Franchia and so many others?
We will add it to our queue of articles to update, thanks for bringing this to our attention! It’s hard to include every restaurant but if you have some specific ones you think deserve recognition, please share them here in the comments and we’ll be sure to get them added to the update 🙂
I’m dying to try it all!! Can’t wait for my next NYC trip to try all these vegan gems.