Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Vegan Foodies
Top Things to Do in New York City for Vegan Foodies
1. ABCV
Jean‑Georges’ plant‑based concept in Flatiron elevates vegetables with beautiful plating, house-milled grains, and a serene, light-filled dining room.
✓ Why Go:
For inventive, market-driven dishes that feel special-occasion yet nourishing—think vibrant hummus, seasonal pastas, and standout roasted vegetables.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday lunch or early dinner (5–6 pm) for easier walk-ins and a calmer room.
✓ Insider Tip:
Sit at the counter if solo; order the green chickpea hummus and any seasonal mushroom pasta—staff can guide fully vegan, gluten-free combos.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests rave about refined flavors, welcoming service, and a spa-like ambiance; prices are premium but considered worth it for the experience.
2. Jajaja Plantas Mexicana
A lively Lower East Side spot serving colorful, from-scratch Mexican fare that happens to be entirely plant-based, plus an agave-forward bar.
✓ Why Go:
Creative tacos, chilaquiles, and nachos deliver bold flavor without compromise—great for groups and a fun night out.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weeknights after 8 pm or weekend brunch when turnover is steady and the vibe buzzes.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask for the jackfruit or chorizo-style mushroom tacos and finish with churros; the agua frescas are naturally dairy-free.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Diners love the festive energy, standout salsas, and cocktails; expect a wait at peak hours but quick, friendly service once seated.
3. Screamer's Pizzeria
Beloved Greenpoint slice shop turning out classic and creative New York–style pies with melty vegan cheese and playful toppings.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the quintessential NYC pizza experience—minus the dairy. Grab a slice or share a whole pie with friends nearby at the park.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon (3–5 pm) for minimal lines; evenings see a steady rush.
✓ Insider Tip:
Try the white pie or buffalo slice; ask for a well-done bake for extra-crisp crust.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Fans call it a must for vegans and non-vegans alike; consistent flavors and fair prices keep locals returning.
4. Ras Plant Based
A bright Crown Heights restaurant celebrating Ethiopian flavors with injera platters, slow-simmered stews, and spice-forward veggies.
✓ Why Go:
Shareable spreads make it easy to sample the breadth of Ethiopian cuisine in a fully plant-based way.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weeknights or Sunday early dinner to savor a relaxed meal; prime hours can be lively.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order a combo platter to mix favorites like shiro, gomen, and misir; injera refills keep the feast going.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests praise the warm hospitality, balanced heat, and generous portions; many consider it a destination-worthy meal.
5. Erin McKenna's Bakery NYC
A Lower East Side pioneer of vegan and gluten-free baking, known for doughnuts, cupcakes, cookies, and celebratory cakes.
✓ Why Go:
Sweet tooths rejoice—everything is dairy-free and cleverly crafted for inclusive indulgence.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mornings for the widest selection; weekends sell out of favorites quickly.
✓ Insider Tip:
Grab a box to-go and a cinnamon sugar doughnut for the walk; cakes can be pre-ordered for special occasions.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors love the light textures and nostalgic flavors; some note premium pricing, typical of specialty baking.
6. Orchard Grocer
A compact vegan deli and market offering NYC-style sandwiches, soft serve, pantry staples, and picnic-perfect snacks.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the downtown go-to for a fast, fully plant-based bite—breakfast to late lunch—plus hard-to-find vegan goods.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekdays before noon to avoid the lunchtime line; limited standing space inside.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order the breakfast sandwich or a lox-style carrot bagel; stock up on vegan cheeses for later.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Regulars praise the inventive deli classics and friendly crew; tiny space, big flavors.
7. Franchia Vegan Café
A refined, serene Korean teahouse and restaurant near Midtown offering plant-based bibimbap, pancakes, noodles, and teas.
✓ Why Go:
For comforting Korean flavors presented with care—great for a peaceful pre- or post-sightseeing meal around Midtown.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early evening on weekdays for a quiet table; lunch prix fixe is a value.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pair the stone pot bibimbap with a pot of blooming tea; ask for spice level adjustments.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests highlight soothing ambiance, clean flavors, and dependable service; a reliable Midtown haven for vegans.
8. Bunna Cafe
Bushwick favorite for communal Ethiopian dining, coffee ceremonies, and plant-based feasts served on injera.
✓ Why Go:
Vibrant, shareable platters and live music nights make it a flavorful cultural experience as much as a meal.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekend evenings for music and energy; arrive early or reserve for groups.
✓ Insider Tip:
The Feast for Two (or more) lets you sample nearly everything; finish with traditional Ethiopian coffee.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Patrons love the warm vibe, generous portions, and value; a Brooklyn staple for vegans and omnivores alike.
9. Chelsea Market
An indoor food hall in a historic factory building with diverse vendors and plenty of plant-based choices, from savory bowls to dairy-free sweets.
✓ Why Go:
Perfect for mixed-diet groups—everyone finds something, and vegans can graze multiple stands in one stop.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mornings or late afternoons on weekdays; weekends are packed, especially around lunch.
✓ Insider Tip:
Scan vendor menus for clearly marked vegan options; take your haul upstairs to the High Line for a scenic picnic.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Travelers appreciate the variety and atmosphere; crowds can be intense, but selection and convenience win out.
10. PLANTA Queen
A stylish NoMad destination for pan‑Asian, vegetable‑forward plates—think crispy rice, bao, noodles—and a lively bar scene.
✓ Why Go:
Modern, shareable dishes and a chic space make it ideal for a celebratory dinner or brunch with friends.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekend dim sum brunch for variety or late-night bites after 9 pm when the room loosens up.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order the crispy rice and udon noodles; ask about seasonal specials and zero-proof cocktails.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Crowd-pleasing flavors and photogenic plates draw mixed groups; some note noise at peak times, but overall high marks.
