New York City is a magical place — full of unlimited energy and inspiration; it is one of the best cities 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!
All of that is to say you’re in for a treat no matter if this is you first or 100th visit!
This NYC vegan guide will help you find fantastic vegan restaurants, bakeries, shops, things to do, and much more.
You’re in for an epic vegan adventure!
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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 options and most restaurants are vegan-friendly. 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 friendlier than others, 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!
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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 or Where to Stay in Brooklyn
Vegan Food Tour of Brooklyn: From Breakfast to Dinner
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
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 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
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 Café
Two locations — Uptown and Downtown
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
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
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
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
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!
Pure Grit BBQ
36 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10010
A vegan BBQ joint that’s a lot gluten-free friendly? No way! That sounds way too good to be true — luckily for you and me it is true! You’ll be head over heels for their smoked BBQ jackfruit, burnt end shrooms, and fried Oreos.
Screamer’s Pizzeria
620 Manhattan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222A visit to NYC isn’t complete without at least one slice of tantalizing pizza! This pizzeria is cooking up the finest slices of NYC-style vegan pizza topped with an array of creative ingredients.
Jajaja
Multiple locations throughout NYC
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
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
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
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
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
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!
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!
Eleven Park Madison
11 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10010
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.
Cadence
111 E 7th St, New York, NY 10009
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!
Ladybird
111 E 7th St. NY, NY 10009
This 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
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
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
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
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
Enjoy the powerhouse flavors of Greece, Turkey, Syria, and Lebanon at this beautiful vegan and kosher restaurant. 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!
Hartbreakers
313 Knickerbocker Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11237
Vegans on The Fly
24 W 45th St, New York, NY 10036
Vegan Grill Diner
Locations in Manhattan and The Bronx
Beatnic Vegan Restaurant
Locations in SoHo, Flatiron, & Rockefeller Center
PLNT Burger
139 4th Ave, New York, NY 10003
Plant Junkie 52
152 W 52nd St, New York, NY 10019
Neat Burger
230 Park Ave, New York, NY 10169
Superiority Burger
119 Avenue A, New York, NY 10009
Jerrell’s BETR BRGR
117 6th Ave, New York, NY 10013 (They are open late!)
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
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
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
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
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
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
This cozy café in Brooklyn has a diverse lineup of sweets, including gluten-free donuts!
Vegan Markets & Shops in NYC
In addition to amazing vegan restaurants, NYC also offers plenty of options for vegan-friendly shopping.
Moo Shoes
78 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002
There aren’t many cities where you can find a vegan shoe shop, so while in NYC, don’t miss this adorable independent boutique! Aside from shoes, they also have men’s and women’s tees, jackets, and accessories.
Orchard Grocer
78 Orchard St. NY, NY 10002
Right next door to Moo Shoes is this cute vegan market and deli! If you’re looking for specialty vegan cheeses or snacks, pop in here.
Riverdel, the Original Vegan Cheese Monger
88 Essex St, NY, NY 10002
A visit to NYC isn’t complete without a stop at this fully vegan cheese shop! Since 2015 they have been crafting their own specialties and stocking the shelves of many well-known and upcoming brands. Make sure to create a cheese-tasting flight with multiple creamy creations, jams, and crackers.
Market 57
25 11th Ave, New York, NY 10011
This vegan-friendly market is a unique place to visit whether you’re hungry or not! What was formally a maritime pier along the Hudson River is now a bustling space filled with food, art, and culture. One the vegan side, the market is home to Ras Plant-Based and Lolo’s on the Water (vegan-friendly) as well as the produce company Local Roots.
Save the Duck
496 Broadway, New York, NY 10012
Stay warm and be cruelty-free with one of these puffer jackets! Save the Duck is on a mission to protect the planet and its animals with its lineup of outdoor wear for the whole family (four legged friends too)! You’ll find everything from heavy duty parkas to light rain jackets — perfect for weather in NYC!
Stella McCartney
112 Greene St, New York, NY 10012
There is no better designer to check out for luxury vegan handbags and fashions while in NYC! The Soho shop has vegan and cruelty-free shoes, bags, clothing, and more.
Vegan-Friendly Hotels 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!
The Arlo Soho
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.
The Archer
45 W 38th St, New York, NY 10018
This hotel is ready to welcome you with your favorite plant-based milk in the mini bar, vegan & cruelty-free toiletries by Malin + Goetz, and a vegan treat with the turn-down service*. Their Spyglass Rooftop Bar is also an excellent place for a cocktail and views of the city.
*You need to let the hotel know in advance that you want vegan options.
What To Do in NYC
Here are just a few things to consider doing, for even more options, check out my lineup of 10 unique things to do in New York City! If you’re time is short and you want to know what to prioritize, check out this 2-day NYC itinerary, created by a local!
Take a walk on the High Line
A visit to The High Line is one of the best free things to do in NYC. The High Line is a mile and a half path that snakes through the Meatpacking District and Chelsea. It was built on a historic, elevated rail line and includes beautiful gardens, art, street performances, and food. It’s a lovely spot to meet friends. One important note, bikes and dogs are not allowed.
Discover Prospect Park and feel like a Brooklyn local
Prospect Park is 585 acres of nature right in the heart of the city. There are countless activities to enjoy, from yoga to kayaking and everything in between. You’re bound to find something to enjoy or just relax and enjoy the scenery.
Check out the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens
This 52-acre park is a living museum — home to over 14,000 plants! It is wonderful when everything comes back to life in the spring.
Take a walk in Dumbo (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) at the waterfront and set up a picnic (weather permitting)
The creative neighborhood features art galleries, bookshops, boutiques, cafes, and more. This is also a great spot to capture beautiful views of Manhattan from the Brooklyn Bridge Park.
In the winter, go skating in Bryant Park (it’s great in the summer, too)
Year-round, Bryant Park is a lovely place to enjoy, but in the winter, it really comes alive with a winter wonderland of holiday shops, skating, and festive cheer.
Other Vegan-Friendly Cities on The East Coast
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
Eco-Friendly Hotels in Philadelphia
8 Things to Do & See in Philadelphia
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
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