Vegetarians can often have trouble finding flavorful and interesting dishes at American restaurants; thankfully, that's not the case in New York City. In fact, these NYC vegetarian restaurants are so good that even meat-eaters will rave about them. Now that’s saying something. Whether you’re a vegetarian or not, you’ll being doing yourself a disservice by not stopping in for a meal at every one of these dining establishments. Do yourself a favor and start bookmarking.
Best of NYC Vegetarian: Dirt Candy (Lower East Side)
As Dirt Candy proves, being a vegetarian doesn’t have to mean boring dinners. From a kale matzoh ball soup with poached egg and okra to a “vegetable ice cream salad” (lettuce sorbet, walnut cake croutons, dill sprinkles, etc.), Dirt Candy’s menu is as innovative as its food is delicious. Who knew broccoli dogs could be so good? 86 Allen St., 212-228-7732, dirtcandynyc.com
Best of NYC Vegetarian: Hangawi (Midtown East)
Hidden in the heart of Koreatown you’ll find a vegetarian haven filled with kimchi, tofu clay pots, acorn noodles, and kabocha pumpkin pancakes galore at Hangawi. Patrons will be instructed to take off their shoes upon entering, adhering to traditional Korean dining practices and adding to the overall calming environment. You’ll leave Hangawi feeling full and tranquil, just what we all need. 12 E. 32nd St., 212-213-0077, hangawirestaurant.com
Best of NYC Vegetarian: Blossom Restaurant (Chelsea)
Blossom serves a lot more than salads and quinoa. In fact, it has some of the heartiest vegetarian food you’ll find in the city. Their Country Breakfast includes a tofu scramble with apple sage seitan sausage, mesclun greens, and optional French Toast, while their Soy Bacon Cheeseburger is bursting between its semolina buns with vegan mozzarella, soy bacon, and a slew of vegetables. Additional locations in the West Village and the Upper East Side. 187 9th Ave., 212-627-1144, blossomnyc.com
Best of NYC Vegetarian: Beyond Sushi (Gramercy)
Sushi has taken on a whole new meaning at this popular vegan restaurant. Instead of rolls filled with spicy tuna and unagi, think rolls filled with sweet potato, asparagus, and enoki mushrooms. The sauces that top these babies off range from toasted cayenne and almond pesto to tomato guajillo and shiitake truffle. And don’t even get us started on the rice paper wraps (the Nutty Buddy is their best-seller and with good reason). Additional locations in Midtown West and Chelsea. 229 E. 14th St., 646-861-2889, beyondsushinyc.com
Best of NYC Vegetarian: Candle 79 (Upper East Side)
Candle 79 is going to cost you, but even vegetarians need to splurge now and again. If you’ve got some bills to throw down, this restaurant is the place to do it. Herb-Grilled Portobello Steak, Live Stuffed Zucchini Blossoms, and Wild Mushroom Crepe are just some of the memorable entrées adorning the menu. We’d also feel wrong not mentioning the roasted cauliflower side with sautéed almonds and shallots. 154 E. 79th St., 212-537-7179, candle79.com
Best of NYC Vegetarian: By Chloe (Greenwich Village)
Chef Chloe Coscarelli is the first vegan to ever win a televised culinary competition, and this was her restaurant…at least until her partners cut her loose in early 2017. The Guac Burger is one of the best veggie burgers you’ll find in town, and the Spicy Thai will actually fill you up. The only downside of By Chloe? The food here is so delectable that you’re probably going to have to stand in a very long (but fast!) line. It’s a price worth paying. Additional location in the Flatiron. 185 Bleecker St., bychefchloe.com
