New York City is home to a large Jewish community, so it’s a great place to find tons of kosher eateries. Dining vegan at a kosher spot, whether vegan-centric or not, is easy because meat and dairy are not allowed in the same kosher restaurant. They’re either all-meat or all-dairy (or, like our list, all vegetarian/vegan!). So, if you’re enjoying a meatball at a dairy restaurant, it’s definitely vegetarian (labeled “pareve”). To check if it’s vegan, ask if it contains egg or honey.
Sacred Chow
227 Sullivan St, New York, NY 10012
This quaint organic vegan cafe, located in Greenwich Village, serves up big flavors for brunch and dinner. Customers love their veggie spins on Eastern European Jewish cuisine, such as Bubby Meyer’s “Chopped Liver” seitan pastrami on rye and Pate made with French lentils, caramelized onions and sunflower seeds. To get the most bang for your buck, order the Tapa Tower, which allows you to try three smaller-portioned entrees for $25. Tapa Tower items that get rave reviews include the Mexican Latkes (potato pancakes) and Thai Ginger BBQ Seitan. For those with dietary restrictions, the wide-ranging menu of salads, burgers, power bowls, paninis, and breakfast classics includes clearly marked soy-, gluten-, and sugar-free options. Sacred Chow is closed on Mondays.
Beyond Sushi
Multiple Locations
Started by former Hell’s Kitchen contestant Chef Guy Vaknin, Beyond Sushi is a chef-driven fast-casual concept that serves vegan sushi with high-end appeal. We’re not talking about your average cucumber and avocado roll. Popular sushi rolls here include the Spicy Mang (spicy mango) and Mighty Mushroom, which is filled with enoki mushrooms, baked tofu, and braised shiitake and topped with micro arugula and a shiitake truffle sauce. Besides sushi, try the dumpling dishes like “Fun-Guy’ (for mushroom lovers, get it?), and rice paper wraps. There’s also always something new to try with their seasonal sushi, dumpling, and soup specials. Most of the six Beyond Sushi locations are quick-service, while the West 37th Street site is a full-service restaurant that takes reservations and offers a special upscale dinner menu. Make sure to get the Beyond Sushi app to earn rewards for every order!
Caravan of Dreams
405 E 6th St, New York, NY 10009
Caravan of Dreams was opened in 1991 by a Spanish expat and describes its atmosphere as a “romantic Old World meets East Village” setting. It’s a perfect spot for romantic dates and girls’ nights out alike, with live music and a fully-stocked bar. Made up of both cooked and raw food options, popular dishes on the kosher vegan menu include the huitlacoche and chorizo quesadilla, which features house-cultured cashew kefir cheese, the raw ravioli sampler plate (beet, pear, and jicama ravioli-what??), and raw zucchini garden pasta with Brazil nut and sesame meatballs covered in creamy Alfredo sauce. If you you’re stretched for time, pick up one of the many healthy juices, shakes, and smoothies that Caravan of Dreams offers.
Candle Cafe West
2427 Broadway, New York, NY 10024
Opened in 2012, Candle Cafe West is the kosher sister restaurant of Candle Cafe East and Candle 79. It has an upscale and and intimate ambiance, making it a great choice for romantic date nights. At the same time, it’s also very family-friendly, offering a kids’ menu complete with crayons and a coloring book. Customers love their four cheese mac ‘n’ cheese, Candle nachos, and seitan piccata. To build your own dish, try the Market Place, which allows you to choose any four market sides (plant proteins, veggies, and grains) and two Candle dressings. For dessert, opt for the brownie. And if you’re in the mood for a drink, look no further! The restaurant’s bar offers organic wine and beer, as well as both alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails, like the refreshing Sun Kissed Mocktail featuring pear, orange, vanilla, and lemon. Candle Cafe West is open Tuesday through Sunday for lunch, Monday through Sunday for dinner, and Saturday and Sunday for brunch. Check their website for seasonal menus, daily specials, and catering information. Those with mobility issues should be aware that their bathrooms are located downstairs.
Peacefood Cafe
460 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10024 & 41 E 11th St, New York, NY 10003
This all-vegan restaurant aims to nourish the mind and spirit in addition to the body. Peacefood is named to reflect the idea that “peace begins on your plate.” The food is fresh, delicious, and intended to promote a nonviolent lifestyle. With a full menu of salads, soups, sandwiches, and desserts, you can’t go wrong no matter what you choose. Taste is number one at Peacefood, and the menu does not disappoint. We’re a fan of the roasted veggies (Japanese pumpkin, Chinese eggplant, zucchini, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts) and the chickpea fries. Other items on the menu include a raw Cashew Cream Cheesecake (yes, please!), Pan-Seared Shanghai-Style Dumplings, and a Bombay Delight smoothie (coconut, banana, date, cardamom, and nut milk). From pizzas to juices to sides and focaccia, Peacefood offers something for everyone.
