Dear reader,
Today, I’m writing to share a small bite of enthusiasm for one of the best spots in the plant-based foodie world: Brooklyn, New York. As someone who only lived there for three months, I realize I’ve only scratched the surface of Brooklyn’s delight. However, my current knowledge of this place deems it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a diverse and exciting culinary adventure.
The Food
Brooklyn is known for its vibrant and diverse food scene, and the plant-based options are no exception. From small vegan cafes to fine-dining restaurants, Brooklyn offers something for everyone. One of the most popular plant-based restaurants in Brooklyn is the acclaimed Modern Love, which features a menu of indulgent comfort foods that are 100% vegan. Other notable plant-based restaurants include Loving Hut, an affordable, quick bite just steps from the Grand St. L train in Williamsburg. They offer a mixed menu of vegan Pan-Asian and American staples for those nights when you need anything from General Tso’s to French onion mac and cheese delivered straight to your door. Another great spot is Bunna Cafe, a completely vegan Ethiopian gem in Bushwick.
The Shops
In addition to the outstanding plant-based restaurants, Brooklyn is also home to numerous farmers markets, health food marts, and specialty shops, making it easy to find fresh and locally-sourced ingredients for cooking at home. Not to mention that Brooklyn hosts numerous food festivals throughout the year, such as the Vegan Food and Drink Festival and the Brooklyn Flea, which showcase the best of the city’s culinary scene.
The Sights
Beyond the food, Brooklyn is a dynamic and culturally rich destination, with plenty of art galleries, museums, and music venues to explore. Visitors can take a stroll through the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, which offers stunning displays of flora and fauna, or visit the Brooklyn Museum, which houses a vast collection of art and artifacts from around the world.
Obviously, I’m a big fan of this city. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone seeking outstanding plant-based cuisine, as well as a diverse and exciting cultural experience.
With all of that being said, here are my top picks for a full day of plant based eating in Brooklyn…
- Breakfast at Clementine: If you’re a plant-based foodie in Brooklyn, there’s no better way to start your day than with breakfast at Clementine. This cozy, sunlit cafe offers an impressive selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes, made from fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms. The menu features classics like avocado toast and tofu scrambles, as well as unique dishes like sweet potato and black bean hash and vegan breakfast burritos. The coffee is excellent, and there are plenty of fresh juices and smoothies to choose from. With its welcoming atmosphere and delicious, plant-based menu, Clementine is a brilliant way to kick off your day in Brooklyn.
2. Lunch at Brooklyn Ball Factory: For a scrumptious lunch as a plant-based foodie in Brooklyn, look no further than the Brooklyn Ball Factory. This restaurant specializes in handcrafted vegan meatballs made from a variety of delicious plant-based ingredients. From classic lentil and mushroom to more unique flavors like sweet potato and quinoa, there is a ball for every taste preference. The menu also features an ever changing range of sauces and sides, including vegan mac and cheese, roasted Brussels sprouts, and garlic bread. The cozy, brick-walled interior provides the perfect atmosphere for a casual lunch with friends or colleagues. With its inventive and flavorful plant-based options, the Brooklyn Ball Factory is a must-visit spot for any plant-based foodie in Brooklyn.
3. Dinner at La Superior, Samurai Papa, or Jajaja Mexicana for a casual night out, and Laser Wolf, or Brooklyn Public Records for a swankier affair:
For plant-based eaters seeking a lovely little casual dinner out in Brooklyn, I highly recommend checking out Samurai Papa, Jajaja Mexicana, and La Superior. Samurai Papa offers an extensive menu of vegan ramen bowls made with hearty, flavorful broths and fresh, seasonal vegetables. Jajaja Mexicana serves up vibrant, plant-based Mexican fare, including vegan tacos, enchiladas, and nachos, all bursting with flavor and color. La Superior is a beloved neighborhood spot offering a range of vegan-friendly Mexican dishes, from guacamole and chips to veggie-filled tamales and tacos. All three of these casual dining spots offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian options, making them perfect for groups with mixed dietary preferences. With their lively atmospheres and delicious plant-based menus, Samurai Papa, Jajaja Mexicana, and La Superior are top picks for a satisfying and flavorful casual dinner out in Brooklyn.
For plant-based eaters seeking a swankier dinner in Brooklyn, Laser Wolf and Brooklyn Public Records are two of the best places to visit. Lazer Wolf offers a sophisticated atmosphere and an extensive menu of modern Israeli cuisine, with numerous vegetarian and vegan options, such as their vegan shawarma and roasted cauliflower. The restaurant also has a diverse wine list and an extensive cocktail menu, making it the perfect spot for a night out. Brooklyn Public Records is a chic restaurant and music venue, with a focus on Mediterranean cuisine and an impressive selection of natural wines. The menu features vegan and vegetarian small plates, such as their roasted beet hummus and grilled baby eggplant, as well as heartier plant-based entrees like their vegan moussaka. With their upscale atmospheres and delicious plant-based offerings, Lazer Wolf and Brooklyn Public Records are top choices for a swanky dinner out in Brooklyn.
Put Brooklyn on your travel list, and enjoy a full day of delicious plant based eats.
Until next time,
Bridget
s & s
If you’ve visited these spots, or have additional recommendations, leave a comment below! Follow @sunnyandspiced on Instagram for more.