Chinatown's first all-vegan market turns 30.
Chinatown’s beloved vegan market, Lily’s Vegan Pantry, is marking a major milestone—30 years of bringing cruelty-free, sustainable, and flavorful plant-based options to the community. Since opening in 1995, this family-owned, minority-, and women-led business has evolved into a hub for ethical eating and cultural culinary experiences.
Founder Lee Mee, reflecting on the journey, shared, “When we started in 1995, our goal was to offer healthy, delicious, and enjoyable vegan alternatives. Over the years, our belief in the mission allowed us to overcome challenges and grow. The relaunch as Lily’s Vegan Pantry in 2020 was a new beginning, and now, 30 years later, we’re thrilled to celebrate this milestone with our incredible community."
30th Anniversary Celebration & Special Events
To commemorate this milestone, Lily’s Vegan Pantry is hosting a month-long celebration in May 2025, packed with exciting events and exclusive product launches:
- Anniversary Celebration Day: Live cooking demos, free tastings, and panel discussions featuring local vegan advocates.
- Exclusive Product Launches: Limited-edition vegan gift boxes and nostalgic flavors inspired by the past three decades.
- Customer Appreciation Sale: Special discounts and giveaways throughout May to thank loyal customers.
Courtesy of Lily's Vegan Pantry
Nationwide Shipping Expansion
Lily’s Vegan Pantry has expanded beyond Chinatown, offering nationwide shipping through its Chow Vegan network. This service allows customers across the US to enjoy signature vegan products—including dumplings, spring rolls, and other plant-based delights—while also supporting small vegan businesses.
Looking to the Future
As it steps into its next chapter, Lily’s Vegan Pantry remains committed to making plant-based living more accessible. Through initiatives like Vegans<3Chinatown and continued collaborations with local businesses, the market continues to uplift the community while sharing its love of vegan cuisine nationwide.
Join the celebration at 213 Hester Street, New York, NY 10013 or explore their online store at LilysVeganPantry.com.
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