Best Upscale Vegan Restaurants in Chelsea | Upscale & Vegan

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Vegan Restaurants in Chelsea | Upscale & Vegan

• Joe's Pizza — Italian · rated 5/5: The rhythmic slap of hand-tossed dough and the warm glow of the stone oven define this bustling neighborhood staple, where the air is perpetually perfumed with the scent of bubbling mozzarella and toasted flour. Each slice offers a masterclass in simplicity, featuring a perfectly charred, foldable crust topped with a vibrant tomato sauce that captures the soul of traditional Italian street food. It is a vibrant, flour-dusted sanctuary where the frantic energy of the city gives way to the timeless, savory comfort of a classic pie.
• Brass Monkey — American · rated 5/5: Brass Monkey pulses with a vibrant, social energy where the clinking of glasses and the aroma of savory, shareable plates create an inviting backdrop for a night out. The kitchen masters the art of elevated comfort, serving up everything from zesty shishito peppers and crisp Old Bay-dusted tenders to mountains of loaded nachos designed for communal feasting. It is a lively neighborhood haunt where the casual atmosphere and bold, nostalgic flavors turn every gathering into a spirited celebration.
• Long Island Dumplings — Chinese · rated 5/5: Steaming bamboo baskets arrive at the table filled with translucent crystal shrimp and vibrant, jewel-toned dumplings like the earthy Beets by Jay and the verdant Green Jade. The air hums with energy as diners tear into pillowy steamed buns and shatter the golden, crispy shells of savory spring rolls, creating a modern sanctuary where traditional dim sum is reimagined with a playful, contemporary flair.
• Odd Fellows Ice Cream — American · rated 5/5: This whimsical parlor reimagines the classic ice cream experience as a playground of flavor, where the air is sweet with the scent of fresh waffle cones and the glass cases glow with an array of inventive, small-batch creations. Silky scoops of Peanut Butter S’mores and Hazelnut Cherry Fudge offer a decadent indulgence, while vibrant swirls of Passionfruit Apricot Pistachio provide a bright, sophisticated counterpoint to the nostalgic crunch of cookies and cream. Every visit feels like a celebration of the unexpected, inviting guests to rediscover their inner child through a kaleidoscope of textures and tastes that push the boundaries of the traditional scoop shop.
• Dough Doughnuts — American · rated 5/5: Step into a vibrant sanctuary of sweetness where the air is thick with the scent of warm yeast and toasted sugar, and oversized, pillowy brioche doughnuts are elevated to an edible art form. Lustrous glazes in hues of hibiscus pink and deep blueberry coat each handcrafted ring, while textures range from the delicate crunch of cocoa nibs and toasted almonds to the zesty brightness of lemon poppy seed. Whether indulging in a classic cinnamon sugar dusting or a sophisticated café au lait creation, every bite offers a decadent escape into a world of bold, imaginative flavors.
• Kame — Japanese · rated 5/5: Soft, pillowy buns take center stage at this lively haunt, where steaming clouds of aroma carry the scent of melt-in-your-mouth braised pork and savory beef to eager diners. The experience is rounded out by the satisfying crunch of golden-fried karaage and delicate, pan-seared gyoza, while charred shishito peppers and sticky glazed ribs add layers of smoky, umami-rich depth to every shared table.
• Vanilla Gorilla Cafe — American · rated 5/5: This vibrant neighborhood hub hums with energy, drawing guests in with the irresistible scent of golden-toasted bread and bubbling mozzarella. The kitchen elevates the humble sandwich into a gourmet experience, layering premium ingredients into everything from the hearty Ultimate Breakfast to the crisp, savory Chicken Parm. Each bite, whether a signature flaky Pastrino or a zestful Poseidon Tuna, offers a masterclass in comfort, making it a sanctuary for those seeking bold, handheld flavors in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
• Bangkok Supper Club — Thai · rated 5/5: Bangkok Supper Club pulses with the vibrant energy of a modern Thai salon, where the rhythmic clatter of the open kitchen and the warm glow of the chef’s counter invite guests into a world of bold, elevated flavors. Delicate uni and crab tartlets give way to the smoky char of prawn satay and the rich decadence of foie gras duck breast wraps, each dish a masterclass in balancing traditional heat with contemporary finesse. Whether settling in for an intimate kitchen counter tasting or celebrating under the festive lights of a gala evening, the experience captures the soulful, high-octane spirit of Bangkok’s culinary scene.
• Paradou — French · rated 4.9/5: Paradou captures the rustic elegance of a hidden Provencal garden, where the warm glow of candlelight illuminates tables laden with crusty baguettes and rich, herb-infused sauces. This intimate sanctuary invites diners to lose themselves in the timeless allure of French bistro culture, savoring every bite of expertly prepared classics amidst an atmosphere of effortless, old-world charm.
• Blossom- Chelsea — American · rated 4.8/5: Nestled within a charming historic townhouse, this intimate Chelsea gem welcomes guests into a candlelit haven of exposed brick and warm, sophisticated elegance. The kitchen masterfully reimagines American comfort through a refined, plant-forward lens, crafting vibrant plates that celebrate seasonal harvests and bold flavors in a space designed for lingering conversations and romantic evenings.
• Los Tacos No.1 — Mexican · rated 4.7/5: The air hums with the rhythmic thrum of chopping knives and the savory aroma of marinated meats searing on the grill, transporting diners to the vibrant heart of a traditional Mexican street market. Hand-pressed tortillas, still warm from the comal, serve as the perfect canvas for succulent al pastor carved straight from the spit and bright, zesty salsas that dance on the palate. This high-energy sanctuary celebrates the raw beauty of simple ingredients, offering a fleeting but unforgettable escape into the bold, smoky soul of authentic taco culture.
• LOULOU — French · rated 4.7/5: LOULOU transports guests to a chic, sun-dappled corner of Paris where the air is perfumed with the scent of fresh herbs and the irresistible allure of sizzling butter. Within this lush, velvet-clad sanctuary, classic French soul meets modern elegance through velvety sauces, crisp artisanal breads, and a curated wine list that sparkles under the soft glow of flickering candlelight.
• Boqueria Spanish Tapas — Spanish · rated 4.6/5: Boqueria transports diners to the heart of a bustling Spanish market, where the air hums with the energy of shared laughter and the irresistible aroma of garlic-infused shrimp and smoky chorizo. Sunlight filters through a space defined by rustic textures and communal warmth, inviting guests to linger over vibrant tapas and chilled carafes of sangria that capture the sun-drenched spirit of the Mediterranean.
• Don Angie — Italian · rated 4.6/5: Stepping into this polished West Village jewel box, guests are greeted by a chic, high-energy atmosphere where checkered floors and velvet banquettes set the stage for a bold reimagining of Italian-American soul food. The air hums with sophisticated charm as plates of artfully swirled lasagna and vibrant, citrus-kissed salads arrive at marble tables, blending nostalgic comfort with a sharp, modern edge.
• BaoDega — Chinese · rated 4.6/5: Stepping into BaoDega feels like entering a vibrant urban sanctuary where the rhythmic clatter of woks and the sweet, yeasty aroma of steaming dough create an immediate sense of warmth. Hand-pleated bao arrive in delicate clouds of vapor, revealing succulent fillings that burst with ginger and soy, while bowls of silken noodles swim in deeply savory, long-simmered broths. This lively corner brings together the soulful comfort of traditional Chinese street food with a sleek, contemporary energy, making every meal feel like a spirited celebration of flavor.
• Il Punto Ristorante — Italian · rated 4.6/5: Stepping into Il Punto Ristorante feels like entering a refined Italian villa where the soft clink of wine glasses and the warm glow of amber lighting set the stage for an intimate evening. The kitchen transforms seasonal ingredients into poetic plates of silken handmade pasta and tender braised meats, each bite a harmonious balance of rustic tradition and modern elegance. It is a place where time slows down over lingering pours of Chianti and the comforting embrace of authentic flavors, capturing the true spirit of Mediterranean hospitality.
• Kogame Ramen — Japanese · rated 4.6/5: Steaming bowls of rich, slow-simmered broth and springy hand-pulled noodles take center stage at this intimate sanctuary, where the air is thick with the savory perfume of toasted sesame and soy. Guests find solace in the rhythmic clatter of the kitchen and the deep, soul-warming flavors of perfectly marbled chashu and soft-boiled eggs, capturing the heart of traditional Japanese comfort in every slurp.
• The Landing — American · rated 4.6/5: The Landing invites guests into a breezy, nautical-inspired sanctuary where the rhythmic sound of lapping waves complements a menu of elevated American classics. From the smoky char of a prime ribeye to the bright, zesty crunch of farm-to-table greens, every dish celebrates bold, nostalgic flavors served against a backdrop of shimmering waterfront views. It is a place where the simple joy of a shared meal is elevated by the warm glow of a harbor sunset and the effortless charm of a coastal retreat.
• Bateaux New York — American · rated 4.5/5: Step aboard this sophisticated, glass-enclosed sanctuary where the shimmering Manhattan skyline serves as a breathtaking, 360-degree backdrop to an evening of refined elegance. As live jazz melodies drift through the air, guests savor thoughtfully prepared American fare that mirrors the city’s grandeur, creating a rhythmic harmony between the gentle pulse of the Hudson and the vibrant energy of the city lights.
• Pepe Giallo — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Pepe Giallo captures the sun-drenched spirit of a rustic Tuscan trattoria, where the air is perfumed with the intoxicating scent of slow-simmered sauces and garden-fresh herbs. Diners linger over plates of silky, hand-stretched pasta and vibrant seasonal antipasti, all served within a bustling, light-filled space that celebrates the joyful simplicity of authentic Italian hospitality.
• Xi'an Famous Foods — Chinese · rated 4.5/5: The rhythmic thwack of dough hitting the counter provides a percussive backdrop to this high-energy space, where the air is thick with the intoxicating scent of toasted cumin and searing chili oil. Diners huddle over bowls of wide, hand-ripped noodles slicked in a signature spicy-sour sauce, finding a bold and unapologetic taste of Shaanxi province in every chewy, fragrant bite.
• Bangkok Supper Club — Thai · rated 4.5/5: A sleek, dimly lit sanctuary where the rhythmic pulse of Bangkok’s late-night energy meets the refined elegance of a modern social club. The air hums with the intoxicating scent of charcoal-grilled delicacies and hand-pounded spices, as vibrant plates of elevated Thai fare are shared under the warm glow of minimalist design. It is a space where bold, fiery flavors and artisanal cocktails converge, inviting guests to lose themselves in a dining experience that is as sophisticated as it is spirited.
• Cafe Cluny — French · rated 4.4/5: Nestled on a sun-dappled corner in the West Village, this quintessential bistro transports diners to a charming Parisian neighborhood with its warm amber lighting, vintage botanical prints, and bustling marble-topped tables. The air hums with the convivial energy of a local favorite, where the scent of buttery pastries and perfectly seared steak frites mingles with the rhythmic clink of wine glasses. It is a timeless sanctuary of French soul, offering an intimate escape that feels both effortlessly chic and deeply welcoming from the first morning espresso to the final evening digestif.
• Porchlight — American · rated 4.4/5: Porchlight captures the soul of a modern Southern tavern tucked into the industrial heart of Chelsea, where warm wood accents and glowing lanterns create an inviting refuge from the city’s hustle. The air hums with spirited conversation as guests linger over bourbon-forward cocktails and share plates of smoky, soulful American comfort food that feels both nostalgic and refined. It is a place where Lowcountry hospitality meets Manhattan’s vibrant energy, offering a convivial escape that warms the spirit with every sip and bite.
• Chelsea Ristorante Italiano — Italian · rated 4.4/5: Chelsea Ristorante Italiano serves as a warm, candlelit sanctuary where the comforting aroma of slow-simmered ragu and freshly baked focaccia instantly transports diners to the heart of the Mediterranean. Hand-crafted pastas and vibrant, seasonal antipasti take center stage on white-clothed tables, creating an inviting backdrop for long, wine-filled evenings that celebrate the soulful simplicity of traditional Italian hospitality.
• Alice — Italian · rated 4.4/5: Alice transports guests to a sun-drenched sanctuary where the rustic soul of a Tuscan kitchen meets the refined elegance of modern Italian dining. The air hums with the aroma of hand-rolled pasta and slow-simmered sauces, each dish a vibrant tapestry of seasonal ingredients and time-honored techniques. It is a place where every meal feels like a soulful celebration, inviting diners to linger over crisp wines and the velvety richness of artisanal desserts.
• Qanoon — Middle Eastern · rated 4.4/5: Qanoon invites guests into a sun-drenched sanctuary where the intoxicating aroma of toasted spices and wood-fired meats sets the stage for a soulful Levantine feast. Vibrant mezze and herb-flecked salads give way to tender, slow-cooked specialties that celebrate the rich heritage of Middle Eastern hospitality, all served in an atmosphere that hums with warmth and communal energy.
• Rare Bar and Grill — Steakhouse · rated 4.4/5: Bathed in the warm glow of amber lighting, this sophisticated sanctuary invites diners to sink into plush leather seating as the intoxicating aroma of seared prime cuts wafts from the open grill. Each plate celebrates the art of the steakhouse, where buttery, dry-aged beef meets a curated selection of artisanal cocktails in a space that balances urban energy with timeless elegance.
• $1 Pizza — Italian · rated 4.4/5: Amidst the rhythmic hum of the city streets, this unpretentious sanctuary serves up steaming, golden-brown slices that offer a perfect harmony of tangy tomato sauce and molten mozzarella. It is a place where the simple magic of a hot, foldable crust brings a moment of savory comfort to the daily rush, capturing the timeless, soulful essence of a classic urban pizzeria.
• Tao Downtown — Chinese · rated 4.3/5: Descending into this subterranean sanctuary feels like entering a cinematic dreamscape where a towering, sixteen-foot Buddha presides over a cavernous room bathed in moody, amber light. The air thrums with a high-octane energy as the kitchen delivers a sensory feast of aromatic Chinese flavors, from the delicate pleats of handmade dim sum to the rich, crackling skin of lacquered Peking duck.