As a vegan, it is often hard to find places to eat that honor your approach to food. Until recently, veganism has been a hard concept for some to comprehend, and in some parts of the world, vegans will still be offered fish and dairy. But with the increase of mainstream awareness about the benefits of eating a plant-based diet, traveling is no longer a daunting experience for a vegan who loves food. Check this bi-coastal guide for some of my favorite places to stuff your face. For vegan options in other cities, find me on Instagram @chefangelalowe and I will point you in the right direction.
Los Angeles
Erven (ervenrestaurant.com): Global flavors, local produce, delicious and innovative.
Cruciferous (cruciferousla.com): Small bites, fermented foods, nut cheeses and fully veg-centric.
Cruiser (cruzerpizza.com): Your all-vegan, go-to pizza and no-fuss Italian favorites.
Gracias Madre (graciasmadreweho.com): Out Chef Chandra Gilbert has an incredible all-vegan menu of Mexican delights.
New York
ABCV (abchome.com/eat/abcv/): This new Jean-Georges joint is setting the tone for plant foods with amazing global ingredients put together in the most gorgeous ways. Your palate will sing when you leave.
NIX (nixny.com): Michelin star, say no more. Bunna Cafe (bunnaethiopia.net): All vegan, tried and true. This place is worth the hike to get there. Screamer’s Pizzeria (screamerspizzeria.com): In true New York style, this place is the go-to for slices.
Blue Hill at Stone Barns (bluehillfarm.com): A bit of a trek into Westchester, but totally worth the drive. All of the produce is grown on the farm. It’s not explicitly vegan, but their vegan tasting menu is truly divine. Part of the experience includes a course in the kitchen. Pricey but worth it!
Avant Garden (avantgardennyc.com): This restaurant group has a bunch of NYC-based vegan bars and eateries.
The Cinnamon Snail (cinnamonsnail.com): What started as a food truck has quickly become a staple. You will not be disappointed!
Beyond Sushi (beyondsushinyc.com): All veg sushi and hot dishes. Unique Flavors, delish sauces and a nice option for sushi lovers.
Modern Love (modernlovebrooklyn.com): Upscale comfort food from a badass chef.
The V Spot (vspot.nyc): Latin fusion food. The empanadas are amazing.