From Yogeswari, a senior Jivamukti teacher and founder and president of AZAHAR Foundation:

Clean Eating in NYC

Manhattan is a haven for healthy food enthusiasts, offering a diverse selection of restaurants, cafes, and markets that cater to every palate.

From vegan delights to fresh, wholesome options, here’s a guide to some of the best healthy spots in the city.

Local Favorites

LifeThyme Health Food Store: This small, charming Village health food store next to Bigelow Pharmacy is packed with everything from dry body brushes to fresh produce. Their homemade dishes, like soups and samosas, are a hit, alongside a popular vegan bakery offering delicious cakes. The salad bar is perfect for a quick, nutritious meal.

https://lifethymemarket.com

Union Square Farmers Market: A go-to spot for fresh, locally sourced produce and artisanal goods. Many Manhattanites swear by the variety and quality of ingredients available here.

https://www.grownyc.org

Plant-Based Delights

PLANTA Queen: Located near Souk, this trendy vegan sushi spot is always buzzing. Reservations are a must for their innovative and flavorful menu.

https://www.plantarestaurants.com/location/planta-queen-new-york-city

The Butcher’s Daughter: A laid-back vegan spot in the West Village on Hudson Street offering creative plant-based dishes. Perfect for brunch or a casual dinner.

https://thebutchersdaughter.com

Plnt Burger (Broadway, 26th and 27th Streets): This NoMAD plant-based burger joint is a great option for a quick bite. Known for its delicious, hearty burgers, it’s a favorite among health-conscious diners.

https://www.plntburger.com

Om Juice (Madison Avenue): Known for their fresh juices, wraps, and burritos. The tempeh avocado wrap is especially popular.

https://omjuicebar.com/#location

Cultural Flavors

RAS Plant Based: This Ethiopian restaurant on Bleecker Street serves incredible injera bread and a selection of flavorful vegan and vegetarian dishes. Their rectangular platters feature a variety of small, delicious portions.

https://www.rasplantbased.com/location/ras-plant-based-west-village

INDAY: Serving fresh Indian cuisine, INDAY, offers both sit-down dining and takeout, with several locations throughout the city. I go to the one on 26th Street.

https://www.indayallday.com

Thai Villa: This family-run Thai spot on 19th Street is a must-visit for its authentic flavors. Make a reservation to enjoy their popular dishes.

https://thaivillanyc.com

Chama Mama: Georgian cuisine on 14th Street at its best, featuring unique and hearty dishes.

https://www.chamamama.com

Other Gems

Delice & Sarrasin: A French-inspired vegan restaurant with high ceilings, a charming garden, and plenty of style, this spot is a true hidden gem.

https://delicesarrasin.com

Kolkata Chai Company: A family-run business offering vegan chai and authentic Indian snacks. Their chai is a must-try. With a Mott Street and an East 3rd Street location.

https://kolkatachai.co

Candle (East Village): A beloved vegetarian cafe has returned to the East Village. This eatery -- from the team behind Candle Café and Candle 79 -- has a cozy ambiance and a menu full of delicious, wholesome options.

https://candlecafe.nyc

About

Yogeswari is a senior Jivamukti teacher and founder and president of AZAHAR Foundation, a non-profit committed to empowering others through yoga and community development in war and conflict-torn countries.

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Lifethyme Natural Market / Facebook