Best Upscale Vegetarian Restaurants in Bensonhurst | Upscale & Vegetarian

10 restaurants in Best Upscale Vegetarian Restaurants in Bensonhurst | Upscale & Vegetarian

• The Original John's Deli — American · rated 5/5: Stepping into this legendary neighborhood staple feels like entering the heart of an old-school Brooklyn deli, where the air is thick with the savory scent of sliced meats and the lively energy of a bustling counter. Towering heroes named after cinematic icons stretch across the workspace in epic proportions, layering premium cold cuts and zesty toppings onto crusty, fresh-baked bread to create massive masterpieces that range from two to six feet in length. Every overstuffed bite captures the bold, unapologetic spirit of a local institution dedicated to the art of the grand Italian-American sandwich.
• Teriyaki One — Japanese · rated 5/5: The air at Teriyaki One is thick with the irresistible scent of caramelizing soy and ginger as succulent meats hit the searing-hot grill to achieve a perfect, smoky char. Glossy, umami-rich glazes drape over everything from tender chicken to buttery salmon, creating a comforting harmony of flavors served alongside crisp greens and fluffy rice in neatly partitioned bento boxes.
• Dun Huang Lanzhou Noodles — Chinese · rated 5/5: The rhythmic sound of hand-pulled noodles hitting the counter sets the tempo at this vibrant destination, where the air carries the intoxicating aroma of star anise and toasted chili oil. Diners dive into steaming bowls of translucent beef broth and share massive platters of tender, spice-rubbed lamb, finding a soulful connection to the Silk Road through every chewy bite and savory, slow-braised morsel.
• Panino Rustico — Italian · rated 4.6/5: This charming Italian enclave captures the soul of a traditional salumeria, where the rhythmic slicing of cured meats and the aroma of toasted focaccia create a bustling, warm atmosphere. Hand-pressed paninis overflow with sun-ripened ingredients and melted cheeses, offering a sensory journey through Italy’s regional flavors in every crisp, savory bite.
• Teriyaki One — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: The air at Teriyaki One is thick with the irresistible scent of caramelizing soy and ginger, drawing diners into a space where the rhythmic sizzle of the grill sets a lively, welcoming tempo. Succulent meats are seared to a smoky char and finished with a glossy, umami-rich glaze, creating a harmonious balance alongside mounds of steaming rice and crisp, wok-tossed vegetables. This vibrant kitchen captures the heart of Japanese soul food, offering a comforting experience where every bite is infused with the warmth of traditional flavors and modern energy.
• The Original John's Deli — Italian · rated 4.4/5: Stepping into this neighborhood landmark feels like a journey back in time, where the air is thick with the savory aroma of slow-roasted beef and the lively hum of a classic Italian-American counter. Artisan heroes come piled high with tender cuts and draped in rich, house-made gravies or pillows of fresh mozzarella, creating a soulful, messy indulgence that captures the essence of old-school comfort. It is a place where tradition is served on a roll, offering a bustling atmosphere that transforms a quick bite into a cherished local ritual.
• Little Saigon Pearl — Vietnamese · rated 4.2/5: Little Saigon Pearl transports diners to the heart of Vietnam, where the air is thick with the comforting aroma of star anise and charred ginger rising from cauldrons of crystalline, slow-simmered broth. Vibrant platters of crisp herbs and zesty citrus accompany every meal, creating a sensory tapestry of bright flavors and soul-warming textures that turn a simple lunch into a fragrant, sun-drenched escape.
• Kushi — Japanese · rated 4/5: Kushi invites diners into an intimate, wood-accented sanctuary where the rhythmic sizzle of the binchotan grill and the intoxicating aroma of charred umami create an immediate sense of warmth. Masterfully prepared skewers and delicate seasonal plates celebrate the harmony of smoke and seasoning, offering a refined yet soulful experience that honors the timeless precision of Japanese culinary tradition.
• Next Move Cafe — American: Next Move Cafe invites guests into a vibrant social sanctuary where the playful energy of tabletop gaming meets the savory comfort of Japanese-inspired fare. The air carries the tempting aroma of golden chicken katsu and rich, aromatic curry, while colorful bubble teas and crispy snacks provide the perfect fuel for an afternoon of strategy and connection. Every visit feels like an invitation to linger, turning a simple meal into a spirited experience of play and flavor.
• Istanbul Bay — Middle Eastern: Istanbul Bay transports diners to the sun-drenched shores of the Bosphorus, where the comforting steam of traditional lentil and kelle paça soups fills the air with a sense of rustic warmth. Vibrant shepherd’s salads and velvety hummus celebrate the bright, clean flavors of the Mediterranean, complemented by hand-rolled stuffed grape leaves and smoky eggplant that offer a rich tapestry of authentic Turkish textures. This welcoming sanctuary invites guests to linger over fresh, colorful plates in a space that hums with the spirit of genuine hospitality.