The city that never sleeps is not exactly the first place you’d think of when looking for healthy eats. When it comes to vegan food, LA generally takes the cake. But just because the metropolis isn’t slathered with an abundance of gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan offerings, doesn’t mean that they don’t exist.
Vegan restaurants are popping up in droves, and I have to say, they do not disappoint. We’re talking about a city whose culture thrives on cuisine after all. So without further ado, we present to you, our favorite vegan finds in New York City.
Le Botaniste
One of my favorite finds in Soho (there are 2 other locations in the city as well) is all about the bowls. Le Botaniste is the brainchild of Alain Coumont, the creative force behind Le Pain Quotidien, which came from his “desire to offer a health-focused, eco-friendly, organic menu that is, above all else, delicious.” The most popular bowl on the menu is the Tibetan Mama which comes with brown rice, kimchi, coconut peanut curry, and greens. It’s pure heaven.
abcV
Famous chef Jean-Georges’ third restaurant inside of the ABC Carpet & Home furniture store goes veggie. And we’re beyond thankful for it. The sophisticated haunt boasts “high vibration foods, embracing balance with beauty, wellness, wisdom & love to nurture” and the menu is all plant–based, non–GMO, sustainable, artisanal and organic from local and global family farms. Chic vegan eats at its very best.
The Butcher’s Daughter
So popular that it resides on both coasts (there is an LA location as well!), The Butcher’s Daughter refers to itself as “a plant-based restaurant, cafe, juice bar and ‘vegetable slaughterhouse.’” The angel hair carbonara is made with spaghetti squash and the most delectable cashew ricotta is something I still dream about daily.
Blossom
Hailed as one of New York’s top vegan destinations, Blossom considers itself a pioneer on the vegan food scene. From a Moroccan tagine made with chickpeas, eggplant, and zucchini, to their trumpet mushroom scallops, there’s a reason why this city-favorite calls itself refined vegan dining for food lovers.
Ladybird
This trendy tapas joint by restaurateur Ravi DeRossi and musician/activist Moby is located in the always-hip East Village neighborhood. Chef Derrick Styczek, formerly of Michelin–starred Etats-Unis, also consulted on the menu, so you know with a powerhouse team like that the food is going to pack a punch. Aside from tapas, Ladybird also offers an array of fondues, featuring Brooklyn’s NUMU vegan cheese, which is always a yes from me.
