From Yogeswari is a senior Jivamukti teacher and founder and president of AZAHAR Foundation,:
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.
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.
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.
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.
Om Juice (Madison Avenue): Known for their fresh juices, wraps, and burritos. The tempeh avocado wrap is especially popular.
https://omjuicebar.com/#location
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.
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.
Chama Mama: Georgian cuisine on 14th Street at its best, featuring unique and hearty dishes.
Delice & Sarrasin: A French-inspired vegan restaurant with high ceilings, a charming garden, and plenty of style, this spot is a true hidden gem.
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.
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.
Manhattan is one of the easiest cities for healthy dining, with options that cater to a variety of diets. While vegan options might not be as abundant as pre-pandemic times, the diversity and quality remain unmatched. Along with Berlin’s extensive vegan scene and London’s vegetarian options, New York stands out as a culinary paradise for health-conscious eaters.
55 Columbus Cir, New York, NY 10023, USA
Lifethyme Natural Market / Facebook