Curator’s statement
New York City has something for absolutely everyone, and the more I have visited, the more I have fallen in love with the city! It may seem overwhelming at first because there is so much to see and do (and eat), but I recommend not trying to overdo it—pick some key things to see and otherwise, just enjoy the energy, chaos, and vibrancy of this unmatched city. While you plan a trip around any of dozens of themes, this guide is for plant-based eaters, or those who enjoy ethical and intentional cuisine, who are looking to explore some of the special and meaningful historical elements of the city—the art, the narratives, the diverse people and events that have built this city. Suggested activities and destinations honor the struggles, the pain, and the triumphs of the people and communities whose legacies echo in the identity of New York City.
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Things to do in New York City
The Tenement Museum: This is one of my favorite museums in the world and a must-see for anyone interested in the diverse narratives of New Yorkers. The Tenement Museum explores the lives of the residents of its Orchard Street tenement houses over the past 150 years, with various tours each focusing on different stories with themes of immigration and assimilation, perseverance through hardship, family, and community. The tours give you a new perspective on the neighborhoods you see around you in the Lower East Side. (I recommend the “Under One Roof” tour).
Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration: Ellis Island is a massive part of US and New York history, and this important and massively busy immigration port contributed so much to what New York City was and is. Learn about the harrowing process of arriving in a new country and going through the immigration process, and the stories of those who took that courageous risk.
The Museum of Chinese in America: Chinese immigration has shaped the city within and well outside of the Chinatown neighborhood. The MOCA aims to preserve the rich history of this important group of New Yorkers. They also have a walking tour through Chinatown, which includes museum admission in the price of the ticket, but you’ll want to plan in advance to reserve a spot!
Museum at Eldridge Street: This museum is housed within a gorgeous historical synagogue and is focused on the Jewish immigrants in the Lower East Side of NYC and their lives, stories, and experiences. Plan ahead to reserve one or the guided tours, either the tour of the synagogue itself, or a walking tour of the Lower East Side.
Center for Brooklyn History (at Brooklyn Public Library): This Center focuses on the history of Brooklyn through the years, housed in an 1881 landmark building, and contains an extensive collection of artifacts, photographs, and oral histories. Brooklyn is such a special neighborhood and has had such a rich history and evolution over time. This is a great pick for someone who wants to get off the more touristy path in Manhattan and spend a bit more time really getting into neighborhood history. Apart from this Center, Brooklyn is a great place for art, food, and views with a very different vibe from Manhattan.
Places to eat & drink in New York City
The Orchard Grocer: Just a block away from the Tenement Museum, the Orchard Grocer is a laid-back grab-and-go store and deli featuring entirely plant-based foods and products. The bagel sandwiches are incredible and resemble many non-vegan deli classics (such as lox, pastrami) and do an excellent job capturing the essence of those foods. (Seriously, try the pastrami.)
Dirt Candy: Dirt Candy describes itself as not a vegan/vegetarian restaurant, but a restaurant dedicated to highlighting the amazing ways plants can be used to create absolutely astounding, unique, and delicious meals. The menu comes as a pre-set tasting menu, which changes seasonally. Don’t be worried that pre-set means you’ll get stuck with something unappealing... my last time there, the lettuce course was my favorite, and one of the best things I’ve ever tried (seriously... lettuce!). Also—the sommelier-curated non-alcoholic drink pairings were astounding. Non-drinkers can expect to be just as wowed by their drinks as their food!
HanGawi: An entirely plant-based restaurant in Koreatown serves a large menu of traditional Korean items in a refined, stylish, and authentic setting. Guests must take off their shoes and sit on the floor, putting their legs into a recession underneath the tables. The environment feels very culturally-authentic without being intimidating, and the food is really delicious! The Korean pancakes are my recommended must-try dish.
Hungry Moon: Hungry Moon is a 100 percent vegan szechuan restaurant with a few locations in the city. The vibe is playful, colorful, and welcoming, and the menu features a variety of classic szechuan items and veganized classic American-Chinese takeout favorites, like crabless rangoons. This is a great spot for a quick lunch alone or a leisurely dinner with friends alike.
Ladybird: If you’re looking for a delicious brunch in an extremely cute setting, this is the place for you. (They have dinner too, not just brunch... I just think the brunch is great!). Indulge in your Chikin ‘N Waffles or French Toast classic brunch options knowing everything is plant-based! Dinner is tapas-style and includes vegan takes on ethnic/fusion classics such as bao buns, kimchi arancini, and tonkatsu sandwich. It’s a vibrant and creative vibe, just like the city!
Artistic Pizza: It wouldn’t be a NYC visit without a good slice of pizza! Artistic Pizza is a no-frills little pizza shop with a couple of small tables where you can get pizza by the slice. They offer several varieties of vegan pizzas to satisfy that pizza craving you may get after a couple days in the city.
Thomkins Square Bagel: Once you’ve satisfied your pizza craving, it’s time to get your New York bagel fix! Thomkins Square has a large number of vegan bagels and delicious house-made tofu-based cream cheeses, perfect for a breakfast on the go.
Need to know
New York is so much fun, but getting around can definitely be a bit overwhelming and intimidating at first. For practical information about how and when to use the subway, which part of the city to stay in, and more personalized activity and dining recommendations, reach out to plan your customized New York City itinerary with me!
Travel Advisor
Teagan Walter
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