Best Upscale Vegan Restaurants in Roosevelt Island | Upscale & Vegan

27 restaurants in Best Upscale Vegan Restaurants in Roosevelt Island | Upscale & Vegan

• The Pony Bar — American · rated 5/5: The Pony Bar radiates the lively, unpretentious energy of a quintessential social hub, where the air is thick with the savory scent of slow-simmered chili and the comforting warmth of salt-dusted, soft-baked pretzels. Guests settle into a spirited atmosphere to share generous platters of crispy jumbo wings and bubbling skillet mac and cheese, creating a communal dining experience that captures the joyful, messy heart of elevated pub fare.
• Marwin Thai — Thai · rated 5/5: Marwin Thai invites guests into a lively sanctuary where the sizzle of the wok and the fragrance of toasted spices set the stage for a masterclass in texture and flavor. Golden-hued treasures like flaky Roti Massaman and shatteringly crisp pork belly anchor a menu of hand-crafted bites, from delicate peanut dumplings to savory duck wraps that burst with freshness. It is a vibrant celebration of Thai culinary artistry, where every plate offers a harmonious balance of sweet, savory, and satisfying crunch.
• LENOXTHAI — Thai · rated 4.9/5: LENOXTHAI invites diners into a vibrant, aromatic sanctuary where the rhythmic sizzle of the kitchen sets the stage for a symphony of bold, authentic flavors. From the zesty snap of fresh herbs to the deep, comforting warmth of coconut-infused curries, the experience celebrates the delicate dance between heat and harmony in a space that feels both modern and soulfully inviting.
• Up Thai — Thai · rated 4.7/5: Step into a jewel-box of a dining room where ornate birdcages hang from the ceiling and warm, golden light dances across intricate wood carvings. The air hums with the energy of a bustling Bangkok market, carrying the fragrant scent of lemongrass and charred chilies as plates of crispy duck and silky noodles arrive in a vibrant explosion of color. This chic sanctuary brings together the bold, punchy flavors of traditional Thai street food with a refined sophistication that turns every meal into a celebratory escape.
• Donna Margherita — Italian · rated 4.7/5: Stepping into Donna Margherita feels like a warm embrace from a Neapolitan kitchen, where the intoxicating scent of blistered crusts and simmering San Marzano tomatoes fills the air. Beneath the glow of soft lighting, diners gather over rustic tables to share hand-stretched pizzas and silken pastas that celebrate the vibrant, sun-drenched flavors of the Italian soul.
• Sashimi Express II — Japanese · rated 4.7/5: This vibrant Japanese destination hums with the energy of a modern sushi bar, where the rhythmic precision of the chef’s knife transforms pristine, ocean-fresh catches into glistening works of edible art. Each plate celebrates the delicate purity of sashimi and the creative flair of hand-pressed rolls, offering a refined yet swift escape into the heart of authentic umami flavors.
• Oda House — Mediterranean · rated 4.6/5: Oda House invites guests into a rustic, soulful sanctuary where the comforting aroma of freshly baked, cheese-laden breads and aromatic spices drifts from a glowing kitchen. Vibrant platters of sun-ripened vegetables and succulent grilled meats offer a sensory journey through the rich, sun-drenched flavors of the Mediterranean, perfect for long, communal feasts. It is a place of genuine warmth, where the flicker of candlelight and the spirit of hospitality transform every meal into a storied celebration.
• Sushi Ishikawa — Japanese · rated 4.6/5: Step into a serene sanctuary where the minimalist elegance of blonde wood sets the stage for a masterful display of precision and seasonal artistry. Each piece of nigiri arrives as a delicate jewel, balancing the subtle warmth of vinegared rice with the pristine, buttery textures of fish sourced at its absolute peak. The experience unfolds as an intimate, rhythmic performance, inviting guests to savor a choreographed sequence of flavors that honors the quiet soul of Japanese tradition.
• Bohemian Spirit Restaurant — Czech · rated 4.5/5: Stepping into this warm, wood-paneled sanctuary feels like a journey to old-world Prague, where the golden glow of chandeliers illuminates a space filled with the comforting hum of conversation and the rhythmic clink of heavy beer steins. The air carries the savory perfume of slow-roasted duck and rich, paprika-spiced goulash, served alongside pillowy dumplings that invite guests to linger over
• York Ave Pizza — Italian · rated 4.5/5: York Ave Pizza captures the soulful energy of a neighborhood haunt, where the scent of bubbling cheese and toasted garlic spills onto the sidewalk to welcome every passerby. Inside, the rhythmic toss of hand-stretched dough leads to golden, thin-crust pies and steaming bowls of pasta that celebrate the vibrant, sun-drenched flavors of traditional Italian cooking. It is a convivial space where the warmth of the ovens and the lively hum of conversation create a dining experience that feels both timeless and deeply personal.
• Le Moulin à Café — French · rated 4.4/5: This sun-dappled bistro transports diners to a quiet Parisian side street, where the rhythmic hum of the coffee grinder and the aroma of freshly baked brioche create an atmosphere of timeless charm. Traditional flavors take center stage as guests tuck into golden-crusted quiches and rich, wine-braised stews, each dish celebrating the rustic elegance of French home cooking. With its cozy nooks and clinking glasses of crisp Chardonnay, the space offers a soulful sanctuary for those seeking a leisurely escape into the heart of Gallic hospitality.
• Delizia — Italian · rated 4.4/5: Delizia transports diners to a sun-drenched corner of Italy, where the intoxicating aroma of roasted garlic and hand-rolled pasta wafts through a space bathed in warm, golden light. Every plate is a celebration of heritage, from the delicate bite of house-made ravioli to the rich, slow-simmered sauces that invite you to linger over a final crust of bread and a deep pour of ruby-red wine.
• Bottega — Italian · rated 4.4/5: Stepping into this sun-drenched haven feels like entering a master artisan’s workshop, where the rhythmic toss of handmade pasta and the aroma of garlic simmering in golden oil provide a lively soundtrack to the meal. Each plate captures the soulful essence of the Italian countryside, marrying rustic, earth-bound flavors with an effortless elegance that lingers long after the final sip of wine.
• Maruzzella — Italian · rated 4.4/5: Maruzzella captures the spirited heart of a Neapolitan kitchen, where the warmth of a wood-fired oven meets the lively hum of a neighborhood gathering spot. Hand-stretched pizzas emerge from the flames with perfectly charred crusts, while bowls of silky, house-made pasta carry the vibrant flavors of sun-ripened tomatoes and fragrant basil. Every meal feels like a spirited celebration of tradition, inviting guests to linger over glasses of crisp Italian wine and the simple, soulful joy of a shared feast.
• Piccolo Trattoria — Italian · rated 4.3/5: Stepping into Piccolo Trattoria feels like a warm embrace, where the golden glow of candlelight dances across rustic wood tables and the air carries the irresistible perfume of fresh basil and simmering ragù. Artisanal pastas are tossed with vibrant, seasonal ingredients and served alongside crusty loaves straight from the oven, inviting diners to linger over shared plates and deep carafes of house wine. It is a sanctuary of simple elegance, where the rhythmic clinking of glasses and the soulful flavors of the Old World create a dining experience that celebrates the joy of the Italian table.
• Sushi Gama Restaurant & Lounge — Japanese · rated 4.3/5: Bathed in the sophisticated glow of a modern lounge, Sushi Gama invites guests into a space where the rhythmic pulse of a social sanctuary meets the meticulous precision of traditional Japanese artistry. Vibrant platters of jewel-toned sashimi and intricately layered specialty rolls emerge from the sushi bar, offering a sensory journey that balances delicate, ocean-fresh flavors with a chic, high-energy atmosphere perfect for an evening of discovery.
• EJ's Luncheonette — American · rated 4.2/5: EJ’s Luncheonette captures the nostalgic heart of a classic mid-century diner, where the comforting aroma of griddled pancakes and sizzling bacon drifts through a space defined by retro blue booths and gleaming chrome accents. This bustling neighborhood staple invites guests to slide into a vinyl seat for a soulful dose of Americana, from towering club sandwiches to thick, hand-spun milkshakes that offer a sweet, creamy escape from the city’s frantic pace.
• Spice — Indian · rated 4.2/5: Spice invites guests into a sensory sanctuary where the air hums with the fragrance of toasted cumin and the warm glow of copper accents sets the stage for an unforgettable meal. From the smoky char of tandoor-fired breads to the intricate layers of slow-simmered curries, each dish celebrates the vibrant colors and bold, aromatic complexity of traditional Indian flavors. It is a place where every bite offers a harmonious balance of heat and heritage, creating a dining experience that feels both deeply comforting and exhilaratingly exotic.
• Patsy's Pizzeria — Italian · rated 4.1/5: Step into a timeless slice of New York history where the smoky perfume of coal-fired ovens mingles with the sweet scent of simmering San Marzano tomatoes. Paper-thin crusts emerge from the flames with a signature blistered char, providing a crisp foundation for pools of molten mozzarella and fragrant, hand-torn basil. The bustling, old-school atmosphere hums with the warmth of a neighborhood institution, inviting guests to savor the simple, soul-satisfying artistry of a legendary pie.
• J.G. Melon — American · rated 4/5: This quintessential New York tavern welcomes guests with its iconic green-and-white checkered tablecloths and a nostalgic, bustling atmosphere that feels frozen in time. The kitchen delivers legendary, juice-dripping hamburgers alongside golden, disc-shaped cottage fries that provide a signature crunch, all perfectly complemented by the kick of a spicy, well-garnished Bloody Mary. It is a timeless neighborhood staple where the simple joy of a perfectly executed pub meal takes center stage amidst the cheerful hum of a loyal crowd.
• Big Alice Brewing — American · rated 4/5: Gleaming fermentation tanks and the inviting aroma of toasted grain set the stage at this inventive taproom, where the boundary between a working brewery and a vibrant social hub disappears. Guests linger over a kaleidoscope of experimental pours, ranging from the earthy sweetness of a farmhouse ale to the complex, spicy heat of a rye-barrel-aged jalapeño brew. Bubbling, thin-crust pizzas provide a savory anchor to the experience, making it a destination where bold liquid artistry and communal comfort collide.
• Nuts Factory — Middle Eastern · rated 3/5: This artisanal confectionery haven invites guests into a world of decadent indulgence, where the iconic snap of premium chocolate gives way to the lush, emerald richness of pistachio cream and toasted kataifi. Each handcrafted bar reimagines the viral Dubai sensation through a creative lens, blending traditional Middle Eastern textures with whimsical inspirations like earthy matcha, sea-salted pretzels, and nostalgic s'mores for a truly elevated sweet escape.
• Treadwell Park — American · rated 3/5: This high-energy social hub pulses with a vibrant spirit, offering a modern take on the classic beer hall where communal tables invite lively conversation and shared indulgence. The kitchen elevates the art of the bar bite with golden, salt-dusted giant pretzels and bubbling crocks of cheesy artichoke dip alongside inventive favorites like Wagyu pigs in a blanket and crispy zucchini shoestrings. It is a destination where playful, crave-worthy flavors and a spirited atmosphere turn every gathering into a celebration of elevated comfort.
• Jones Wood Foundry — British · rated 3/5: Step into a refined neighborhood sanctuary where the soulful charm of a traditional British gastropub meets the sophisticated energy of a modern bistro. The air is rich with the comforting aroma of golden Yorkshire pudding pop-overs and savory Scotch eggs, while the kitchen elevates rustic classics into artful plates like silky foie gras parfaits and vibrant tuna tartare. Whether tucked into a cozy corner with a bowl of bubbling French onion soup or sharing a spread of house-made whipped ricotta, guests find a welcoming space that balances old-world warmth with culinary finesse.
• Piccolo Trattoria — Italian: Sunlight streams through the windows of this intimate neighborhood nook, where the sizzle of the panini press and the comforting steam of simmering sauces create an inviting sanctuary for lovers of classic Italian comfort. Golden-crusted paninis filled with savory prosciutto give way to bowls of tender pasta swirled in everything from rich, velvety Alfredo to vibrant, herb-flecked pesto. It is a place where simple ingredients are elevated into soulful meals, offering a timeless dining experience that feels like a warm embrace from a family kitchen.
• THEP — Thai: This vibrant Thai destination pulses with energy, inviting guests to explore a tapestry of bold flavors through artfully presented small plates that balance traditional heat with modern flair. From the satisfying crunch of golden-fried sachets and Kra-Pow puffs to the succulent sweetness of honey-glazed ribs, every bite offers a sensory journey through the bustling streets of Thailand in a sleek, contemporary setting. The experience is a playful celebration of texture and spice, perfect for sharing a parade of inventive bites that feel both soulful and sophisticated.
• Sweetgreen — American: Bustling with the energy of a modern garden kitchen, this vibrant space invites guests to enjoy a restorative reset through bowls that are as visually stunning as they are nutrient-dense. From the sizzle of caramelized garlic steak to the sweet heat of hot honey chicken, every dish is a colorful mosaic of crisp greens and umami-rich glazes designed to provide steady energy and bold, clean flavors.