30+ Best Vegan Restaurants in NYC & More
New York City is a magical place — full of unlimited energy and inspiration; it is one of the best cities for vegans in the world (in my opinion). There is so much to do, see, and eat! I’ve visited countless times and even lived outside of the city for a short period, and each time I visit I still find new things to check out, and of course, NYC always has vegan restaurants to visit!
All of that is to say you’re in for a treat, no matter if this is your first or 100th visit!
This article contains affiliate links (paid links) and Veggies Abroad is a member of Amazon Services LLC Associated Program. At no cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase — this helps keep Veggies Abroad churning out free content! For an explanation of our advertising partnerships, please review our privacy policy.
The Best Vegan Restaurants in NYC
The lineup of vegan restaurants in NYC is seriously a mile long and so diverse! I’ll cover globally-inspired spots, fine-dining, fast food, and more! So if you don’t see something, keep scrolling! When planning your dining adventure, it’s important to know that these restaurants are peppered all over the city — it’s best to save the ones you really want to visit on Google Maps. That way, you can see what’s near you while you’re out and about.
New York City Vegan Food Tour
There’s a lot to eat in NYC, you might want to consider booking this tour to get the vegan lay of the land!
Delice & Sarrasin
20 Christopher St, NY, NY 10014
Vegan French food with gluten-free & soy-free options.
If you thought light and crispy crepes and boeuf bourguignon were off the table for vegans, you need to come here! This family-owned restaurant in West Village is delighting guests with its veganized French creations — fruits de mer, coq au vin, and even foie gras! They are also one of the best spots for vegan brunch in NYC! If you’re gluten-free or soy-free, no worries; they have options for you, too!
Buddha-Bodai
77 Mulberry St, NY, NY 10013
Vegan & Kosher Chinese food.
If you like Dim Sum, you can’t miss this vegan paradise in Chinatown. All the dishes at this Chinese restaurant are super flavorful but don’t skip the steamed shumai, curry dumplings, and sticky rice in a bamboo leaf.
Peacefood Cafe
Two locations — Uptown and Downtown
Vegan comfort food with great desserts.
For over a decade, this casual vegan café has been dishing out a creative mix of vegan comfort food, along with a few raw dishes. Whether you’re interested in diving into a filling Peace Food bowl or want a cookie on the run, you can do that here.
Ras
739 Franklin Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238
Vegan Ethiopian cuisine.
This plant-based Ethiopian restaurant in Brooklyn has a colorful selection of dishes to delight eyes and taste buds! Their menu features a selection of hearty bowls for lunch, larger entrees, and small bites for dinner. The best way to experience authentic flavors is to order and share a few options.
Beyond Sushi
Multiple locations throughout NYC
Vegan sushi & other Japanese fare.
You will be in awe of these gorgeous fish-free creations! This Japanese spot has veganized all the fishy things no one would expect to be vegan — crab, tuna, zalmon, and more! Don’t leave without trying a few different specialty rolls — the spicy jackfruit crab is outstanding. This is one of the best spots for vegan sushi in NYC!
Le Botaniste
Multiple locations throughout NYC
Casual healthy cafe with rotating bowls & salads.
If you’re looking for an excellent spot for nutrient-packed dishes, look no further than Le Botaniste. The sustainable menu features bowls overflowing with fresh veggies, house-made soups, sushi, and even healthy desserts. It is also the only carbon-neutral restaurant in NYC.
Modern Love
317 Union Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Vegan comfort food.
The vegan comfort eats at this Brooklyn diner are incredible! The seasonal menu features mouthwatering burgers, mushroom fried chick’n, loaded mac-n-cheese, and much more. Try and save a little room for one of their house-made desserts or a peanut butter shake!
Screamer’s Pizzeria
620 Manhattan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222
NY-style vegan pizza.
A visit to NYC isn’t complete without at least one slice of tantalizing pizza! This Brooklyn pizzeria is cooking up the finest slices of NYC-style vegan pizza topped with an array of creative ingredients.
Jajaja
Multiple locations throughout NYC
Vegan Mexican food with many gluten-free options.
The Mexican cuisine at this vegan spot will make you want to do a little dance! It will be hard to decide between their house-made empanadas, loaded nachos, or gorditas, so you should probably bring a friend and get one of each. Their menu is very gluten-free friendly!
May Kaidee
215 E Broadway, New York, NY 10002
Vegan Thai food.
If you’re a fan of Thai eats, but want something authentic and spicy, look no further! This spot vegan spot started in Bangkok and then brought its mouthwatering food to NYC! Their menu features veganized traditional dishes from throughout the country.
Spicy Moon
A location in East and West Village
Vegan Chinese food.
If you’re looking for something full of flavor and maybe a little spice, don’t miss this vegan Szechuan! Their menu features various dumplings, buns, noodles, veggie dishes, and more!
NY Dosas
50 Washington Square S, NY, NY 10012
Vegan South Indian food, focus on dosas.
If you see a line wrapping around Washington Square Park, it’s probably for the tantalizing South Indian eats at this food cart! All of the house-made dosas, noodles, samosas, and more are not only vegan but also gluten-free!
Willow Vegan Bistro
199 8th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Vegan comfort food.
This cozy vegan restaurant in Chelsea reinvents classic American eats with a plant-based twist. Their menu features a diverse lineup, many of these dishes you won’t find anywhere else! Fishy fans shouldn’t miss their creamy clam chowder or crab cakes; for something meaty, don’t miss their BBQ seitan ribs. In addition to being vegan, the restaurant is also Kosher-certified.
Coletta
365 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10016
Vegan & Kosher Italian food & pizza.
The same team that created Willow also created this charming vegan Italian restaurant (that is also Kosher and gluten-free friendly). With one look at their menu, you’ll be struck with indecision! From endless bowls of creamy pasta to pizzas topped with fig jam and veggie prosciutto, you’ll definitely want one of everything!
Chloe.
185 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10012
Vegan comfort food & award-winning cupcakes.
Longtime fans of NYC’s vegan scene or even fans of Cupcake Wars will be very familiar with the face behind this hip vegan West Village eatery! The popular cookbook author and chef, Chloe Coscarelli, is back with her signature comfort food and classic sweet treats. The lunch and dinner menu feature savory favorites like a spicy Italian meatball sandwich with cashew mozzarella, loaded nachos with addictive maple seitan, crispy sweet potato fries, and more. Just save room for a slice of chocolate sprinkle cake!
Vegan Fine Dining (Or Upscale) Restaurants in NYC
Many of these fancy-schmancy spots require reservations (sometimes months in advance) and a few of them are Michelin- Starred, so be sure to call before you go!
Cadence
111 E 7th St, New York, NY 10009
Veganized Southern specialties.
You’ll not want to miss the Southern specialties at this amazing Michelin Star vegan spot! Treat yourself to maple buttermilk cornbread, buffalo oyster mushrooms, Southern fried lasagna, and more. Aside from being vegan, the kitchen is also 100% soy-free!
Eleven Park Madison
11 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10010
5-course chef’s tasting menu.
It’s quite possible you’ve already heard about this upscale spot — they made quite a stink when head chef, Daniel Humm made the entire menu plant-based just a few years ago. The chef’s tasting menu consists of 10 courses that highlight seasonal and local ingredients. Reservations are required.
Ladybird
111 E 7th St. NY, NY 10009
Vegan tapas & wine bar.
This East Village vegan spot is owned by the same group that runs Avant Garden. So, if you’re looking for another chic spot with incredible vegan tapas and natural wine, plan a stop here! They also offer brunch on the weekend.
Dirt Candy
86 Allen St. NY, NY 10002
5-course vegan tasting menu.
This stylish vegan restaurant delights guests with an epic 5-course tasting menu with an optional wine pairing. The dishes draw quite a crowd, so make sure you make reservations in advance. This would be an excellent place for a special night out!
Avant Garden
130 E 7th St. NY, NY 10009
Vegan tapas-style menu.
For a memorable dining experience, check out the vegan tapas-style menu at this modern restaurant. The menu features a selection of dishes meant to be shared and enjoyed with a glass of natural wine.
abcV
38 E 19th St, NY, NY 10003
Plant-forward, seasonal vegan menu with gluten-free options.
The dishes here are worthy of a Michelin Star. Located right in the heart of Manhattan, they focus on plant-based, sustainable, and artisanal foods, all sourced from small farms. The dishes are so refined and excellent.
PLANTA Queen
15 W 27th St, New York, NY 10001
$$ Traditional eats with a healthful spin (breakfast, lunch, & dinner)
This chic spot is perfect for a night out with friends or with that special someone! Their Asian-inspired menu is absolutely mouthwatering — bao sliders, spicy tuna (made with watermelon) sushi rolls, noodles, and more. You’ll definitely want to share a few dishes!
Anixi
290 8th Ave, New York, NY 10001
Vegan & Kosher Mediterranean food.
Enjoy the powerhouse flavors of Greece, Turkey, Syria, and Lebanon at this beautiful vegan and kosher restaurant in Chelsea. The mouthwatering menu features classic dishes reinvented with seasonal ingredients in the most creative ways. Make sure you start with an order of their creamy whipped almond and cashew ricotta.
Vegan Fast Food Restaurants in NYC
Whether you’re looking for a giant loaded burger or crispy chick’n with a side of seasoned fries, you’ll find it at one of these vegan fast-food joints! These vegan fast food spots are terrific whether you’re on the run or just want something insanely delicious and greasy!
Vegan Bakeries & Ice Cream in NYC
Whether you’re looking for cream cheese covered cinnamon rolls or artisanal chocolates, you’ll find it at one of these fabulous vegan dessert spots. Also, don’t skip checking out the amazing lineup of vegan bakeries in Brooklyn, too!
Erin McKenna’s Bakery
248 Broome St, NY, NY 10002
Vegan & gluten-free bakery.
This adorable vegan and gluten-free bakery (also soy-free options) has everything from towering cakes covered in sweet buttercream to sinful cinnamon rolls.
Orchard Grocer
78 Orchard St. NY, NY 10002
Vegan soft serve ice cream.
At first, you wouldn’t think a vegan deli and sweets go together, but this spot has some of the creamiest oat milk vegan soft serve in town!
Whipped Urban Dessert Lab
95 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002
Vegan oat milk ice cream.
If you love ice cream, don’t miss this shop’s outrageous oat milk creations! They offer creamy soft serve, hard scoop ice cream, truffles, and cakes.
Confectionery!
440 E 9th St, NY, NY 10009
Vegan chocolates & cakes.
This lovely vegan bakery has a little bit of everything — handmade chocolates, cookies, pies, cupcakes, and gorgeous macarons (also gluten-free)!
Rawsome Treats
158 Orchard St, NY, NY 10002
Vegan & gluten-free raw cakes.
There is no better place for beautiful raw desserts than this spot! On top of being vegan, everything is also gluten-free and includes cakes, tarts, cheesecake, and more.
Happy Zoe Vegan Bakery
102 B Nassau Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222
Vegan bakery & cafe.
This cozy café in Brooklyn has a diverse lineup of sweets, including gluten-free donuts!
Vegan Markets & Shops to Visit
In addition to amazing vegan restaurants, NYC also offers plenty of options for vegan-friendly shopping.
Is New York City Vegan-Friendly?
Is the sky blue?! NYC is one of the most vegan-friendly cities in the world! You’ll find loads of vegan and vegetarian restaurants — plus vegan-friendly ones! One report estimates there are over 1,000 restaurants in NYC with vegan options — that’s huge!
One caveat, certain parts of the city are more vegan-friendly than others, and getting from one end of the city to another can take some serious work. So be sure to plot out restaurants that you really want to visit and activities ahead of time so you don’t spend all of your time traveling.
Bookmark These NYC Vegan Eats!
19 Epic Vegan Bakeries & Dessert Spots in NYC
13 NYC Vegan Ice Cream Shops You Must Visit
Where to Find Vegan Donuts in NYC
The Best Spots for Vegan Pizza in NYC
Where to Find Vegan Mexican Food in NYC
The Most Creative Vegan Sushi Spots in NYC
The 14 Best Spots for Vegan Breakfast or Brunch in NYC
10 Spots for Vegan & Gluten-Free Food in NYC
Vegan-Friendly Hotels in NYC
Vegan Food Tour of Brooklyn: From Breakfast to Dinner
Vegan-Friendly Hotel in NYC
Unfortunately, New York City doesn’t have a fully vegan hotel yet, but here are two that are friendly, plus I have a whole lineup of other vegan-friendly hotels in NYC too! If you’re prefer to stay outside of Manhattan, don’t miss my guide on where to stay in Brooklyn!
231 Hudson St, New York, NY 10013
It is considered a micro-hotel, which makes me think it’s a shoebox, but it isn’t. It’s about the size of a traditional European hotel room, with a hip, updated vibe — a pleasant stay for half the price of many other NYC hotels and their onsite restaurant has vegan options.
NYC Vegan Wrap Up: More Travel Help
New York City is in a great location to check out other vegan-friendly cities like Washington DC and Philly and I’ve got everything you need to plan the perfect vegan adventure!
8 Can’t Miss Spots for Vegan Food in Washington DC
The Best Vegan Bakeries & Ice Cream in DC
Philadelphia Vegan Travel Guide
Complete Vegan Travel Guide to Washington DC
The Ultimate Vegan Travel Guide to The Finger Lakes
Amazing Finger Lakes Hiking Trails
Vegan Festivals and Events Worth Traveling To This Year
The Best Vegan Documentaries to Watch Right Now
TrustedHousesitters Review: The Pros and Cons from a Pet Sitter
Saving this amazing list! Le Botaniste is one of our favorite spots.
Thank you! I am looking forward to an eating adventure through NYC soon 🙂
Great list!
Remember to stop by the other East Village highlights of Divya’s Kitchen and organic Caravan of Dreams (open for 30 years). Both have great brunch, lunch, dinner, desserts, drinks, and staff. Not to miss if you are local or visiting.
There is also Blossom on University and on the Upper West Side near the American Museum of Natural History.
Kajitsu near Grand Central is a rare opportunity to have a 10 course menu inspired by Japanese Buddhist temple cuisine. They have to close in mid September 2022. Hopefully, they can reopen somewhere else, but this might be your last chance.
Thanks for checking it out and the additional recommendations!
Like Queens don’t exist,literally one of the best vegan spot in NYC is veggie castle.
Definitely great places in Queens and could easily have its own section!