10 Delicious Vegan/Vegetarian Spots Around Campus

Perfect for vegans, vegetarians, and veg-curious carnivores alike.

It takes a while after you decide to go veggie to really stick to it. I had cheat days once every two months for the first nine months. But killing a meat craving has never been easier than now. For a guide to some of the best vegan/vegetarian places in town that just happen to be within a walking distance form campus, look no further than below.

Red Bamboo

No list can be complete without this gem that’s blessed us with being just half a block away from Washington Square Park’s South-West corner. It recently raised its prices slightly, which for someone who went there on weekly basis (me) is super upsetting (damn you, property taxes!) but the dishes are worth it. Try the famous buffalo wings, or maybe, my personal favorite, sesame beef. If none of them sound like something you’d like, there is a sea of options to pick from.

Peacefood Cafe

Named after the “simple idea that peace begins on your plate,” this vegan restaurant is perfect for visiting in larger groups (though it is just as welcoming to the party of two). It provides an array of dishes, like my favorite chicken parmesan, sandwiches, pizzas, and even sushi. When you’re done with your main course, you can order a dessert from their vegan bakery, which is just as eclectic. I, however, never steer away from a tiramisu.

Tue Thai Food

While this place isn’t technically a vegan restaurant, I had to include it in the list for their amazing lunch deal, if nothing else. Being an adamant fan of Thai food, it is always a challenge to find a place that 1) can take fish sauce out of their pad thai (after years, I had to sadly say goodbye to Kiin on Eighth Street for that reason) and 2) can make it taste just as flavorful and rich. But Tue Thai managed to do it. I got a delicious no fish sauce, no egg, tofu pad thai with egg rolls, a small side salad, and a select drink, all for $9.90 (make sure to visit during their lunch special hours, 11:30-4). In addition, the place is small, cute, and cozy.

by Chloe

I’m sure I don’t have to go on and on about this place as everyone who goes to NYU already knows about it, but no such list would be complete without the inclusion of by Chloe. Their guacamole burger is U.S.-famous, attracted celebrities like Miley Cyrus, Ari and Pete, and Zac Efron.

&pizza

Do not overlook this relatively new make-your-own pizza place on Broadway, between Waverly and Eighth. You can custom-make your own pie or choose from the small menu. The place provides vegan mozzarella, as well as vegan Italian sausage for a great rectangle of pizza for $10.

Two Boots

Take a walk up to 11th and Seventh for this fun, quirk, colorful, retro pizza place. It’s relatively tiny and a bit farther from campus but with pizza options like Cleopatra Jones (vegan option available), the Buckminster, and the Dude (yes, after The Big Lebowski), who could resist a little stroll?

Ahimza

This cozy spot on Thompson between Bleecker and Third is for all the meatless Indian food lovers out there (with gluten-free options available). They have a wide selection of delicious dosas that remains my go-to, as well as spiced, milky, Indian masala chai.

Go Zen

Not to be confused with the online meditation website, Go Zen is a vegan restaurant characterized by its modern interpretation of classic dishes. Their soul nuggets are a nice comfort treat, while their “any 3 for $10” option allows for a bigger meal on a budget; plus, it’s perfect for a first-timer.

Urban Vegan Kitchen

This vegan restaurant on Carmine St. offers an intimate setting, brunch until 4 p.m. and a bunch of cocktails and mocktails. The place is a bit pricey so make it something you treat yourself with after a test, or a group presentation (we all know those can be a pain). Gluten and soy free options are available, along with a small selection of chocolate-heavy desserts. Instead, dare go another route: try the seasonal fruit pie with ice cream!

Nix

Another fancy option you should probably not make a habit of going to, and the three money signs on Google will attest to that. But for special occasions, like post-finals or when someone else will get the check, it’s worth a try-out. A proud owner of a Michelin star, the place offers seasonal, shareable dishes along with an array of affordable wines and a sizable desert menu. Shiitake cacio e pepe with haricots verts and creamy polenta is a popular option. For a lighter dinner, try the English pea dumplings with snap peas, ginger and scallion oil.

BONUS: Mike and Dave’s

Most of us don’t tend to get dessert at the same place we stop by for lunch or dinner. Those favoring frozen yogurt and ice cream as an option can check out this spot on MacDougal. Started by two lifelong best friends, this place aims to crush cravings as healthily as possible. Along with their dairy blends, they provide vegan options, like Mango Tango with strawberry, dollop vanilla icing, pistachios and coconut flakes.