Food & Drink

Meatless Magic: 21 Veggie-licious Restaurants in the Big Apple

New York City has long been known for its diverse food scene, with an array of international cuisines available at every turn. However, for vegetarians, finding a restaurant that caters to their dietary needs can be a bit of a challenge.

Fortunately, the city is home to a number of fantastic vegetarian restaurants that offer delicious, innovative cuisine that even meat-eaters will love.

From cozy cafes to upscale dining rooms, there is a vegetarian restaurant to suit every taste and budget.

Whether you're a lifelong vegetarian or simply looking to try something new, these eateries are sure to impress. Many of them use locally-sourced, organic ingredients and offer creative takes on traditional dishes.

One of the great things about vegetarian cuisine is its versatility. With a focus on fresh produce, whole grains, and plant-based proteins, these restaurants offer a wide variety of dishes that are both healthy and delicious.

Whether you're in the mood for a hearty pasta dish, a flavorful stir-fry, or a light and refreshing salad, there is something for everyone.

So, whether you're a vegetarian or simply looking to explore the city's food scene, be sure to check out some of these amazing vegetarian restaurants.

With their creative menus, cozy atmospheres, and commitment to sustainability, they are sure to impress even the most discerning diners.

1. Vegan On The Fly

Vegan On The Fly
24 W 45th St, New York, NY 10036 (Google Maps)

Vegan On The Fly is a laid-back counter-serve eatery that offers a variety of delicious plant-based options, including burgers, gyros, and loaded fries.

The seitan gyro is a must-try, with perfectly seasoned and textured seitan that will leave you feeling satisfied.

While seating options are limited, the heated outdoor seating area is a great spot to enjoy your meal.

2. Jajaja Mexicana

Jajaja Mexicana
162 E Broadway, New York, NY 10002 (Google Maps)

Jajaja Mexicana is a colorful and contemporary vegan restaurant that serves up authentic Mexican cuisine.

Offering an all-vegan menu, this hip eatery is the perfect spot for those looking for plant-based options with a twist.

From the hearts of palm ceviche to the delicious nachos loaded with guacamole, Jajaja Mexicana serves up dishes that are both flavorful and filling.

Don't forget to try their signature churros served with coconut sauce, they are absolutely delicious! Whether you're a vegan or not, Jajaja Mexicana is definitely worth a visit for a unique and tasty dining experience.

3. Le Botaniste

Le Botaniste
833 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10065 (Google Maps)

Le Botaniste is a quirky and unique vegetarian restaurant that offers a range of delicious and healthy dishes.

The menu is entirely vegan and organic, and the ingredients are fresh and flavorful. The atmosphere is cozy and relaxed, with a homey, apothecary-inspired decor.

The staff is friendly and helpful, and the service is prompt and efficient. Whether you're looking for a quick and inexpensive lunch or a leisurely dinner, Le Botaniste is definitely worth a visit.

With its varied and flavorful dishes, it's the perfect place to nourish your body and soul.

4. Bodhi Kosher Vegetarian Restaurant

Bodhi Kosher Vegetarian Restaurant
77 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10013 (Google Maps)

Bodhi Kosher Vegetarian Restaurant is a Chinese restaurant that serves delicious vegan food.

The menu has plenty of options, including dim sums and dumplings. The staff is friendly and accommodating, making the dining experience enjoyable.

The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere. The food is cooked to perfection and full of flavors. The quality of the food is impressive, and the prices are affordable.

Bodhi Kosher Vegetarian Restaurant is an excellent choice for anyone looking for authentic Chinese vegan food.

5. Vegan Grill Diner

Vegan Grill Diner
1726 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10128 (Google Maps)

Vegan Grill Diner offers delicious vegan comfort food at a reasonable price.

The menu has a variety of options to choose from, including bowls, sandwiches, and desserts. The staff is friendly and always willing to help.

The restaurant is clean and has a welcoming atmosphere. The food is made fresh to order, so be prepared to wait a little longer.

If you're looking for a great vegan spot, Vegan Grill Diner is definitely worth checking out.

6. Spicy Moon

Spicy Moon
328 E 6th St, New York, NY 10003 (Google Maps)

Spicy Moon is a Chinese Szechuan eatery that serves up delicious plant-based dishes in a cozy and casual setting.

Their menu is creative and flavorful, with options like Kung fu tofu, Dan Dan noodles, and vegetable wonton in chili oil.

They also have a good selection of drinks, including non-alcoholic fruit punch and Grey Goose vodka. The portions are generous and reasonably priced, making it a great spot for lunch or dinner.

Whether you're a vegan or not, Spicy Moon is definitely worth a visit for their unique and tasty cuisine.

7. Dirt Candy

Dirt Candy
86 Allen St, New York, NY 10002 (Google Maps)

Dirt Candy is a vegetarian restaurant that offers a unique dining experience. Their menu consists of five courses with two extra dishes that are sure to leave you feeling satisfied.

The presentation of the food is beautiful and the flavors are bold and creative.

The wine pairing from small batch, women-owned wineries is a great addition to the meal. The atmosphere is inviting and the staff is friendly and attentive.

If you're looking for a modern spot for creative vegetarian fare, Dirt Candy is the place to go.

8. Franchia Vegan Cafe

Franchia Vegan Cafe
12 Park Ave, New York, NY 10016 (Google Maps)

Franchia Vegan Cafe is a must-visit for anyone looking for delicious and creative vegan Asian fusion cuisine. The extensive menu features meat alternatives and authentic Asian dishes, and the drink menu includes cocktails, hot and cold teas, and juices.

The restaurant's serene, tea-house-inspired setting provides a calming atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the tasty food.

Be aware that the restaurant can get crowded during peak hours, but the wait is worth it. The service is attentive and accommodating to food allergies.

Don't miss out on the vegan sushi and the cheesecake for dessert. Franchia Vegan Cafe is a great spot for vegetarians and vegans alike.

9. Divya's Kitchen

Divya's Kitchen
25 1st Ave., New York, NY 10003 (Google Maps)

Divya's Kitchen is an Ayurvedic vegetarian restaurant that serves healthy and flavorful food.

The menu is marked for vegan and gluten-free options, making it easy for customers to choose. The ambiance is calming and inviting, and the staff is friendly and efficient.

The food is beautifully presented and composed, and the portions are satisfying. The prix fixe menu is a good deal and covers the entire menu.

The rose chocolate mousse is a must-try dessert. Divya's Kitchen is a great spot for those looking for clean and nourishing food.

10. Vegan Ginger Root

Vegan Ginger Root
1164 1st Ave., New York, NY 10065 (Google Maps)

Vegan Ginger Root is a cozy and authentic Asian vegan restaurant that offers a variety of delicious and well-prepared dishes.

The staff is friendly and helpful, making the dining experience enjoyable. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous.

The restaurant is perfect for vegans, vegetarians, and non-vegans who are looking for a tasty and healthy meal.

The ambiance is calm and peaceful, making it a great spot to wind down and enjoy a well-balanced vegan meal. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a great vegan restaurant experience.

11. Quantum Leap

Quantum Leap
1103 1st Ave., New York, NY 10065 (Google Maps)

Quantum Leap is a must-visit for vegetarians and vegans alike.

With a wide selection of delicious and healthy options, this restaurant is perfect for those looking for a quick lunch or a sit-down dinner.

The staff is friendly and attentive, making the dining experience all the more enjoyable. Prices are reasonable, and the atmosphere is cozy and inviting.

Don't miss out on the chance to try some of the best vegetarian and vegan food in town at Quantum Leap.

12. Hangawi

Hangawi
12 E 32nd St, New York, NY 10016 (Google Maps)

Hangawi is a vegetarian restaurant that offers a creative and upscale menu of Korean fare. The tranquil space creates a unique dining experience where patrons must remove their shoes upon entering.

The restaurant has an extensive menu of vegan and vegetarian options, making it an ideal choice for those following a plant-based diet.

The staff is attentive and hospitable, providing excellent service throughout the meal.

The dishes are beautifully decorated and full of flavor, creating an unforgettable culinary experience. Hangawi is a must-visit for anyone looking for a gourmet vegetarian restaurant.

13. Avant Garden

Avant Garden
130 E 7th St, New York, NY 10009 (Google Maps)

Avant Garden is a cozy and intimate vegetarian restaurant that offers a unique dining experience. The menu is filled with vegetable-forward dishes that are packed with flavor and creativity.

The service is impeccable, with knowledgeable staff who can guide diners through the menu and help them choose the perfect wine pairing.

The restaurant has a rustic open kitchen concept that adds to the ambiance. It is a great place for a date night or a special occasion.

Highly recommended for those looking for a fine dining experience with a vegetarian twist.

14. P.S. Kitchen

P.s. Kitchen
246 W 48th St, New York, NY 10036 (Google Maps)

P.S. Kitchen is a sophisticated vegan restaurant with a mission to give back. All profits go to charity, and the food is delicious.

The menu offers a variety of vegan options, including burgers, salads, and wings. The staff is friendly and attentive, and the ambiance is trendy and chic.

The outdoor seating is a plus, and the cocktails are witty and delicious. It's a bit pricey, but it's worth it for the quality of the food and the good cause.

Highly recommended for anyone looking for a tasty vegan meal with a purpose.

15. Plant-Blossom

Plant-Blossom
881 10th Ave, New York, NY 10019 (Google Maps)

If you're looking for a delicious vegetarian meal, Plant-Blossom is a must-try.

This restaurant offers a variety of plant-based alternatives to meat dishes that are just as flavorful and filling. The workers are friendly and the portions are generous.

The menu is diverse, with plenty of vegan options to choose from. Even those who aren't vegetarian will enjoy the creative and tasty dishes.

The take-out only format may be a downside for some, but it's worth it for the quality of the food. Plant-Blossom is a hidden gem that shouldn't be missed.

16. PLANTA Queen

Planta Queen
15 W 27th St, New York, NY 10001 (Google Maps)

PLANTA Queen is a unique vegetarian restaurant that serves Asian fusion and tapas-style dishes.

The menu features plant-based foods that are full of flavor and complexity. The sushi is particularly noteworthy, with flavors that rival some fish sushi.

The mushroom bao and crispy rice are also standout dishes. The atmosphere is hip and modern, with great music and attentive service.

The restaurant is a must-visit for vegans and non-vegans alike who are looking for a unique dining experience.

17. The Organic Grill

The Organic Grill
133 W 3rd St, New York, NY 10012 (Google Maps)

The Organic Grill is a top-notch vegetarian restaurant that serves outstanding food. The menu is full of flavorful and health-promoting options that are all made from scratch.

The owner, Vlad, is passionate about serving quality, sustainable, and seasonal foods.

The restaurant has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere that adds to the dining experience.

The Organic Grill is definitely worth a visit for anyone looking for delicious plant-based cuisine.

18. VeganHood

Veganhood
2100 Frederick Douglass Blvd, New York, NY 10026 (Google Maps)

Looking for a plant-based restaurant that serves delicious comfort soul food without compromising on taste and quality of ingredients used in the dishes served, VeganHood is the place to be.

The restaurant offers a varied menu with a good number of choices that cater to vegetarians and vegans alike. The staff is friendly and attentive, making the dining experience a pleasant one.

Although the portions are a bit pricey for the size, the food is fresh and well-prepared, making it a great option for a healthy and tasty meal. The ambience is pleasant, with an indoor and outdoor seating space that is well-decorated with flowers.

VeganHood is a great option for anyone looking for a vegan or vegetarian restaurant that offers creative and delicious dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.

19. Happy Veggie

Happy Veggie
76 Mott St, New York, NY 10013 (Google Maps)

Happy Veggie is a great vegetarian restaurant that offers Asian fusion cuisine. The food is delicious and perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking for a healthy meal.

The portions are generous, and the prices are affordable. The staff is friendly and provides quick service.

The restaurant is clean and Covid friendly. The menu has many options to choose from, including vegan dumplings, steamed buns, and noodles.

Happy Veggie is definitely worth a visit for those looking for a tasty vegetarian meal.

20. Willow Vegan Bistro

Willow Vegan Bistro
199 8th Ave, New York, NY 10011 (Google Maps)

Willow Vegan Bistro is a cozy and intimate restaurant that serves delicious plant-based homestyle cooking.

Their menu features a variety of vegan options, including truffle mac and cheese, hickory smoked burger, and calamari made with king oyster mushrooms.

The staff is friendly and attentive, making for an enjoyable dining experience.

The restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking for high-quality vegan food in a comfortable setting.

21. Veggie Grill

Veggie Grill
12 W 23rd St, New York, NY 10010 (Google Maps)

Veggie Grill is a modern, counter-service vegetarian restaurant. They offer a variety of vegan dishes, including sandwiches, salads, faux meats, and sides.

The staff is friendly and attentive, and the food is fresh and delicious.

The prices are fair for the quality of the food, and the atmosphere is clean and welcoming.

Veggie Grill is a great option for those looking for healthy and tasty vegetarian meals.