The Best Vegan Food in New York City

As one of the most diverse cities in the United States, and with the largest population of any U.S. city, New York is bound to have an incredible range of cuisine. NYC is also consistently ranked one of the most vegan-friendly cities in the United States. As you might imagine, eating vegan in New York City is a joy! New York City has a vibrant and rapidly growing vegan food scene, with many fantastic vegan restaurants and options. The city is also home to a number of vegan food festivals, including the annual NYC Vegetarian Food Festival and the Vegan Street Fair, which showcase the city’s diverse vegan food scene and attract foodies from all over the world.

After indulging in the rich and diverse vegan offerings available throughout the city, I can confidently say that New York City is a vegan foodie’s paradise! My experience in New York City’s vegan food scene left me eager to return and discover even more of what this vibrant culinary destination has to offer.

Here’s our take on the best vegan food in New York City!

P.S. Kitchen

Price: $$

Cuisine: Fusion

Website: ps-kitchen.com

P.S. Kitchen is a vegan restaurant with a mission to fight hunger and poverty by donating 100% of its profits to charitable causes, with a focus on organizations that support sustainable agriculture, ending homelessness, and providing job training and education for marginalized communities. In addition to its philanthropic mission, P.S. Kitchen is known for its delicious vegan cuisine. The restaurant has a chic, modern interior and a lively atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both casual and special occasion dining. Some of my personal favorite menu items include the Maitake Buffalo Wings, Truffle Fries, and Chicken Pot Pie.

Jajaja Plantas Mexicana

Price: $$

Cuisine: Mexican

Website: jajajamexicana.com

Jajaja Plantas Mexicana is a vegan Mexican restaurant with several locations throughout New York City and is known for its fun, lively atmosphere and creative plant-based twists on traditional Mexican cuisine. The restaurant has a colorful, vibrant interior with tropical decor and plenty of greenery. Popular dishes include the Palm Carnitas Street Tacos, Mezcal Mushroom Street Tacos, and Buffalo Flower Street Tacos. If you’re looking for a tasty appetizer and a refreshing drink to complement your meal, I highly suggest trying the Nachos with Guacamole to start and an Almond Horchata.

Beyond Sushi

Price: $$

Cuisine: Sushi

Website: beyondsushi.com

Beyond Sushi is a vegan restaurant that specializes in sushi, and they have multiple locations throughout New York City. In addition to its iconic vegetable sushi, Beyond Sushi also serves hearty dishes like Fried Chick’n Bao, Glazed “Meatballs”, and Ube Cashew Cheesecake. One of Beyond Sushi’s most popular menu items is the Mighty Mushroom Roll, which is made with black rice, shiitake and enoki mushrooms, and a truffle-infused sauce. Other popular rolls include the Spicy Mang Roll, Rainbow Roll, and Sweet Tree Roll.

Urban Vegan Kitchen

Price: $$

Cuisine: Comfort Food

Website: urbanvegankitchen.com

Urban Vegan Kitchen is a completely vegan restaurant that offers a diverse and creative menu of plant-based comfort food. The restaurant has a cozy, rustic decor with wooden tables and exposed brick walls, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The menu and Urban Vegan Kitchen feature a variety of vegan twists on classic American comfort food, such as mac and cheese, burgers, and fried “chicken” sandwiches. The Chick-un & Waffles at Urban Kitchen is a must-try dish for anyone visiting this restaurant. Not only is it one of their most popular menu items, but it’s also my personal favorite. The seitan is perfectly crispy and the waffle is warm and fluffy, and when you drizzle the maple syrup on top, it’s absolute perfection!

Screamer’s Pizzeria

Price: $$

Cuisine: Pizza

Website: screamerspizzeria.com

Screamer’s Pizzeria was founded by two friends who shared a love for pizza and a vision to create a plant-based alternative to traditional pizza. The menu at Screamer’s Pizzeria features a variety of vegan pizzas made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. They offer classic toppings like mushroom and onion, as well as more unique options like buffalo cauliflower and cashew ricotta. One of the most popular items on the menu is the Screamer Pizza, which is a classic New York-style pizza with tomato sauce, cashew mozzarella, and garlic oil. The Buffalo Pizza, Pepperoni Pizza, and the White Pizza are all popular choices at Screamer’s Pizzeria, and I personally love the White Pizza the most!

Delice & Sarrasin

Price: $$$

Cuisine: French

Website: delicesarrasin.com

Delice & Sarrasin is a French-inspired vegan restaurant opened by a French couple, who were inspired to create a plant-based restaurant that offered the same classic French cuisine they grew up with. The menu at Delice & Sarrasin features a variety of veganized French dishes, including savory crepes (galettes) made with buckwheat flour, sweet crepes, and a range of appetizers and entrees. Some of the most popular dishes include the Brie Roti Et Fondant Vegetal which is a melted and roasted macadamia nut-based brie served with baked potato, and Beef Bourguignon which is a stew with marinated pea protein beef. They also offer a popular and delicious vegan cheese plate, Plateau De Fromage, which features a variety of nut-based cheeses.

Avant Garden

Price: $$$

Cuisine: Refined Vegan Dishes

Website: overthrowhospitality.com

Avant Garden is a popular vegan restaurant that focuses on highlighting the natural flavors of vegetables and other plant-based ingredients. The restaurant’s rustic interior features a cozy, intimate atmosphere with exposed brick walls and candlelight. Some menu favorites at Avant Garden include the Baby Gem Salad, Housemade Spaghetti, and Scorched Cauliflower. In addition to its food menu, Avant Garden has a wide selection of natural wines, craft beers, and specialty cocktails.

Spicy Moon

Price: $$

Cuisine: Chinese Szechuan

Website: spicymoonnyc.com

Spicy Moon is a standout vegan restaurant in NYC, serving up Sichuan-inspired cuisine that will satisfy your craving for bold and spicy flavors. The interior is simple and intimate, making it a great spot for a relaxed dinner with friends. The Dan Dan Noodles, Steamed Vegetable Dumpling, and Mapo Tofu are among Spicy Moon’s most sought-after menu items. For a sweet finish to your meal, consider trying the Red Bean Bun or Mochi that comes in a variety of flavors!

Vegan On The Fly

Price: $$

Cuisine: Quick Bites

Website: veganontf.com

Vegan On The Fly is a casual vegan restaurant with a focus on healthy and fresh plant-based meals. Their menu offers a variety of options, including salads, sandwiches, burgers, and juices. Some of the most popular menu items include the Mac n Cheese, BBQ Drumsticks, and Impossible Kefta Gyro Sandwich. If you’re looking for a delicious and unique dessert option, the vegan Twinkies are a must-try!

Le Botaniste

Price: $$

Cuisine: Health-focused, Organic

Website: lebotaniste.us

Le Botaniste is a plant-based restaurant specializing in healthy and flavorful vegan dishes that are free from gluten, dairy, and refined sugar. The restaurant’s menu is inspired by traditional plant-based diets from around the world, with a focus on fresh, whole foods and seasonal ingredients. They have several locations throughout NYC, each with its own unique ambiance and design. The Vegetable Tajin, Spicy Chili Sin Carne, and Botanical Salad are just a few of the customer favorites at Le Botaniste. Indulge your sweet tooth with the Omega 3 Brownie, a delectable dessert that will leave you wanting more!