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This New Vegan Mexican Joint in NYC Is a Must-Try

The new plant-based spot appeals to vegans and non-vegans alike.

RaĆ­z
News
New York

Photo courtesy of RaĆ­z

The new plant-based spot appeals to vegans and non-vegans alike.

If youā€™re anything like us, youā€™re frequently on the hunt for a vegan burrito in your city that comes with all the fixings, like the sour cream and queso you grew up loving. If youā€™re in NYC, the search is over! A new plant-based Mexican-inspired spot just opened in the heart of East Village and is already garnering attention from vegan foodies, plant-curious foot traffic, and even New Jersey senator Cory Booker!

Vegan Mexican Food Inspired by Local Taqueria Favorites

An idea born through the pandemic, the founders of RaĆ­z created the concept for the new restaurant when a spotlight was put on global health and environmental issues. Understanding that much comes down to the way we eat, the team created a concept with the goal of changing individuals’ perceptions of vegan food by showing them they donā€™t have to compromise taste or flavor by ditching meat. With that, the menu was created with meat-eaters in mind, featuring items customers would recognize from their favorite taquerias.

Embracing a Plant-Based Lifestyle

The business operates under the motto, ā€œlet us surprise you,ā€ with a goal to ensure plant-based, plant-curious, and even meat-eaters can enjoy the flavor-packed dishes on the menu and embrace a more plant-focused lifestyle. With items like the Westside Burrito, inspired by the West Coastā€™s famed California burrito and packed with RaĆ­z asada, fries, sour cream, guac, pico, and pepperjack cheese, itā€™s no surprise their mission is working and bringing in the likes of New Jersey senator Cory Booker, who stopped by and bought meals for his entire team. The senator even commented on the restaurantā€™s Instagram requesting delivery to his state.

Birria Tacos, Burritos and Churro Bites

The menu was created by Chef Jesus Villafan, and thereā€™s truly something for everyone and every palate. From classic favorites like birria tacos, piled-high nachos, gooey quesadillas, and churro bites to delicious, inventive dishes including corn soup, oat milk flan, and cactus salad, you canā€™t go wrong, no matter your order.

RaĆ­z officially opened on January 27, located in the heart of East Village at 7th St and 1st Ave. Limited dine-in seating is available, as well as pickup and delivery. First time online orders receive 10% off. If youā€™re in NYC, pop into RaĆ­z at ā€‹ā€‹120 1st Ave, New York, NY 10009 or check them out online at RaizNYC.com and on Instagram at @RaizNYC.

Melissa Nowakowski

Melissa Nowakowski

she/her

Melissa has been vegan since 2017 and is a self-proclaimed pizza and donut enthusiast. A public relations executive by dayā€”when she’s not scouring New York City and beyond for the next great vegan food and beauty findsā€”she dedicates her time to supporting animal rescues, traveling, and spoiling her cat, Waffles, and dog, Albie.

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