September 28, 2025
New York City is one of the world’s greatest dining capitals, and nowhere is this more evident than in its vegan restaurant scene. Whether you’re looking for an elegant fine dining experience, a quirky burger joint, or a neighborhood café serving soulful comfort food, NYC has it all.
With plant-based dining becoming one of the fastest-growing movements in the U.S., restaurants across the five boroughs are stepping up to deliver innovative, flavorful dishes that prove vegan cuisine can stand proudly next to any other. But with so many choices, how do you pick the right place? After all, nobody wants to end up at a restaurant that looks better on Instagram than it tastes in real life. To avoid regrets, check out How to Pick the Perfect Restaurant (Without Regretting It Later).
In this guide, we’ll explore the best vegan restaurants in New York City — from iconic institutions to hidden gems — and give you pro tips on how to make the most of your dining experience.
Vegan dining is no longer just a niche trend; it’s a cultural shift. In 2025, more people than ever are choosing plant-based meals, whether for health, environmental impact, or the sheer creativity they offer.
New York, always a leader in food trends, has embraced this wholeheartedly. From upscale Michelin-starred spots to fast-casual counters, the city has something for every kind of vegan diner. According to recent data, vegan, Korean, and Mediterranean cuisines are among the fastest-growing in popularity. You can dive deeper into these shifts in Dining Trends: Why Vegan, Korean, and Mediterranean Are Growing Fast.
Not all vegan restaurants are equal — and when curating this list, we considered several key factors:
Of course, reviews and bookings matter, too. To know what to trust in online ratings, check out How to Read Restaurant Reviews (and Spot What Really Matters). And if you’re planning for a special night, don’t miss this Must-Have Checklist for Choosing Restaurants on Special Occasions.
Below are the standout vegan restaurants in NYC — each unique, each worthy of a visit.
abcV, by celebrated chef Jean-Georges, is a sophisticated plant-based restaurant that treats vegetables like works of art. The chic, minimalist interior sets the stage for a menu filled with vibrant, seasonal creations such as mushroom walnut bolognese and whole roasted cauliflower.
Perfect for a romantic night or a special dinner, abcV feels elevated without being pretentious. For more great date-night spots, see Romantic Vegan Restaurants in New York City.
Once a tiny counter-service joint, Superiority Burger has evolved into one of the most celebrated vegan restaurants in NYC. Famous for its namesake burger, often called one of the best in the world, it’s proof that casual vegan dining can be crave-worthy and cool.
The restaurant also rotates daily specials, desserts, and house-made gelato. It’s affordable, quirky, and endlessly fun. For more budget-friendly eats, check out Affordable Vegan Restaurants in New York City.
Cadence, part of the Overthrow Hospitality group, serves vegan soul food that honors Southern traditions. From smoked grits to fried lasagna, every dish is a bold, comforting celebration of flavor.
Its intimate setting makes Cadence ideal for a cozy dinner. If authenticity is what you’re after, explore Authentic Vegan Restaurants in New York City.
This Harlem favorite offers quick-service vegan comfort food that keeps locals coming back. Burdock root BBQ “crawfish,” mac-and-cheese, and hearty bowls are just a few highlights.
Family-owned and community-driven, Seasoned Vegan Real Quick is great for casual, family-friendly meals. Discover more in Family-Friendly Vegan Restaurants in New York City.
As one of NYC’s pioneering vegan fine-dining restaurants, Blossom has been elevating plant-based cuisine for over two decades. The menu includes upscale favorites like truffle risotto and seitan scallopini.
The atmosphere is elegant, making it perfect for anniversaries or business dinners. If you’re considering different reservation styles, see Private Dining vs. Standard Reservations: Which Is Right for You?.
Beyond Sushi brings color and creativity to vegan dining with sushi rolls made entirely from plants. Favorites include the Spicy Mango and Mighty Mushroom rolls, alongside dumplings and noodle dishes.
With locations across Manhattan, it’s accessible and great for groups. For more affordable vegan spots, read Affordable Vegan Restaurants in New York City.
Chef Amanda Cohen’s Michelin-starred Dirt Candy is a celebration of vegetables in their most imaginative forms. Though not strictly vegan, the menu is overwhelmingly plant-based and highly accommodating.
The tasting menus feature playful dishes like carrot sliders and Brussels sprout tacos, making this one of the most creative vegan dining experiences in NYC. Before booking, review How to Make the Most of Every Restaurant Reservation.
Urban Vegan Kitchen combines hearty comfort food with a hip, community-driven vibe. From buffalo wings to decadent mac-and-cheese, the menu is bold and fun. The restaurant also hosts live music, making it more than just a dining spot.
Not sure whether to head out or stay in? Here’s some help: Dining Out vs. Ordering In: How to Decide What’s Best Tonight.
Franchia offers a calm, Zen-like dining environment with Korean-inspired vegan cuisine. The menu features bibimbap, dumplings, and warming noodle soups — perfect for both lunch breaks and quiet dinners.
If you love this style, you might also enjoy exploring Best Korean Restaurants in New York City.
Avant Garden is a cozy, candlelit vegan restaurant that specializes in beautifully plated, vegetable-forward dishes. Highlights include roasted maitake mushrooms and toasts topped with creative spreads.
Its intimate vibe makes it perfect for date nights or special occasions. For more inspiration, see Romantic Vegan Restaurants in New York City.
This lively spot reimagines traditional Mexican cuisine with a vegan twist. Dishes like jackfruit tacos and nachos with cashew queso make Jajaja Mexicana a go-to for groups and festive nights out.
The colorful interiors and energetic vibe make it Instagram-worthy as well as delicious.
Ladybird is a tapas-style vegan wine bar that’s chic and stylish. With small plates like truffle mac-and-cheese and fondue, it’s perfect for sharing. The intimate setting also makes it a strong contender for romantic evenings.
Planta Queen is a global vegan chain with a luxurious NYC location. The restaurant serves Asian-inspired plant-based dishes like bao buns, sushi, and noodles in a vibrant, modern space.
It’s ideal for big group dinners and celebratory nights.
A legend among NYC vegans, Red Bamboo has been serving comfort food classics for decades. Known for its extensive menu of mock meats, wings, and sandwiches, it’s casual, cozy, and endlessly satisfying.
For family outings, this is a reliable pick. Explore more options at Family-Friendly Vegan Restaurants in New York City.
Spicy Moon is a vegan Szechuan restaurant that delivers bold, fiery flavors. The dan dan noodles, spicy wontons, and mapo tofu are among the best vegan Chinese dishes you’ll find in NYC.
If you’re into this style, you may also enjoy Authentic Chinese Restaurants in New York City.
In addition to the headline names, NYC is dotted with hidden vegan gems:
These neighborhood favorites may not always make top-10 lists, but they capture the heart of vegan dining in NYC.
Dining in New York can be overwhelming, but these tips will help:
At the end of the day, the “best” vegan restaurant isn’t just about food — it’s about the experience. You’ll know you’ve found a gem when the service feels welcoming, the flavors surprise you, and the atmosphere makes you want to linger. For a deeper dive, check out 5 Signs You’ve Found a Truly Great Restaurant.
If this guide has inspired you, here are more curated vegan lists to explore:
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