Best Upscale Vegetarian Restaurants in Civic Center | Upscale & Vegetarian

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Vegetarian Restaurants in Civic Center | Upscale & Vegetarian

• Harry's — American · rated 5/5: Steeped in an aura of timeless sophistication, Harry’s welcomes guests into a polished sanctuary where the clink of crystal and the scent of searing prime cuts signal the start of a refined culinary journey. The kitchen masters the art of the classic, presenting a golden-crusted Beef Wellington alongside in-house dry-aged steaks that boast deep, concentrated flavors. The experience is punctuated by the ritual of the signature Martini, served ice-cold and stirred to perfection, embodying the effortless elegance of a true neighborhood institution.
• Little Cupcake Bakeshop — American · rated 5/5: This charming neighborhood bakeshop wraps guests in the nostalgic scent of warm sugar and cocoa, where glass cases overflow with whimsical, pastel-hued treats. From the deep, cocoa-rich layers of the Brooklyn Blackout to the airy sweetness of the Coconut Cloud, every bite offers a playful journey through classic American flavors. It is a vibrant, sweet-scented sanctuary where artisanal craftsmanship meets the simple joy of a perfectly frosted cupcake.
• Nolita Pizza — Italian · rated 4.8/5: Nolita Pizza captures the vibrant pulse of the city, drawing guests in with the intoxicating scent of hand-stretched dough and bubbling San Marzano tomatoes caramelizing in a high-heat oven. Within its warm, brick-lined interior, diners find a soulful retreat where thin, blistered crusts and artisanal toppings celebrate the timeless art of the perfect slice. It is a quintessential neighborhood haunt where the casual energy of the street meets the comforting, rustic flavors of authentic Italian tradition.
• Lei — Chinese · rated 4.8/5: Lei invites guests into a sanctuary of refined elegance, where the soft glow of silk lanterns illuminates a space filled with the fragrant steam of jasmine tea and the rhythmic, soulful sizzle of the wok. The kitchen masterfully balances the bold, numbing heat of traditional spices with the delicate sweetness of fresh ingredients, creating a vibrant tapestry of regional flavors that transforms every shared plate into an evocative celebration of Chinese culinary artistry.
• Yondu Culinary Studio — Korean · rated 4.8/5: Bathed in natural light, this sleek, interactive space invites guests to step behind the counter and explore the vibrant soul of Korean cuisine through a hands-on, immersive lens. The air hums with the sizzle of seasonal vegetables and the deep, savory aroma of slow-fermented umami, transforming fresh ingredients into a communal feast of bold, plant-forward flavors. It is a sensory journey where the boundaries between chef and diner dissolve, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for the delicate balance of heat and heart that defines the modern Korean table.
• Yi Ji Shi Mo — Chinese · rated 4.7/5: The air at Yi Ji Shi Mo is thick with the comforting scent of steamed rice and savory soy, centered around the hypnotic rotation of traditional stone mills that grind grains into a signature, silken slurry. Each plate arrives as a masterpiece of translucent, gossamer-thin rice rolls that melt on the tongue, offering a masterclass in texture and time-honored craftsmanship.
• Bento Sushi — Japanese · rated 4.7/5: A bright and bustling haven where the art of the bento box is celebrated through vibrant colors and the meticulous assembly of hand-pressed nigiri and creative rolls. Each tray arrives as a curated landscape of flavor, balancing the buttery silkiness of premium sashimi with the crisp, golden textures of tempura and the bright pop of house-made sauces. This lively spot transforms the daily meal into a sensory escape, offering a refreshing retreat defined by the perfect harmony of Japanese tradition and modern convenience.
• Café Habana — Mexican · rated 4.6/5: This vibrant urban retreat pulses with energy, drawing guests in with the intoxicating scent of charred corn, zesty lime, and slow-simmered spices. Inside, neon lights and retro accents create a lively backdrop for savoring bold Mexican flavors, from smoky, cheese-dusted elote to tender meats infused with the heat of sun-drenched chilis. It is a sensory celebration of street-food soul, where every plate captures the spirited warmth and festive rhythm of a bustling neighborhood cantina.
• Piacere — Italian · rated 4.6/5: Piacere captures the soul of Italy in a sun-drenched space where the aroma of toasted garlic and slow-simmered ragù drifts through an atmosphere of effortless elegance. Guests linger over silken ribbons of hand-rolled pasta and vibrant, seasonal antipasti, savoring a dining experience that elevates simple ingredients into a celebration of flavor. It is a sanctuary of warmth and light, where every pour of robust wine and every shared plate feels like a heartfelt toast to the joy of living.
• Barbalu — Italian · rated 4.6/5: Tucked into the cobblestone charm of the Seaport, Barbalu welcomes guests with a rustic embrace of exposed brick and warm candlelight, creating an intimate haven that feels like a well-kept secret. The kitchen breathes life into traditional Italian soul food, where the steam from bowls of perfectly al dente pasta mingles with the bright, herbaceous notes of house-pressed olive oils and sun-ripened tomatoes. Every meal unfolds with a rhythmic ease, pairing robust regional wines with artisanal plates that honor the simplicity and deep, comforting flavors of a classic trattoria.
• Pep's on Grand — Italian · rated 4.6/5: Bathed in the warm glow of amber lights, Pep's on Grand invites guests into a spirited sanctuary where the rhythmic clinking of wine glasses harmonizes with the intoxicating aroma of garlic-infused olive oil. Silken, hand-rolled pastas and slow-simmered sauces celebrate the soulful simplicity of Italian tradition, creating a dining experience that feels both timelessly elegant and vibrantly alive.
• The Odeon — French · rated 4.5/5: A timeless Tribeca icon where the warm glow of neon and the hum of a spirited crowd evoke the quintessential New York brasserie experience. Beneath high ceilings and amber lights, the air is thick with the aroma of sizzling steak frites and the clink of martini glasses against the legendary zinc bar. It remains a storied sanctuary of French-inspired elegance, where white-clothed tables and red leather banquettes invite soulful conversations that stretch late into the night.
• Le Coucou — French · rated 4.5/5: Le Coucou transports diners to a realm of cinematic Parisian elegance, where soaring ceilings and flickering candlelight illuminate a dining room draped in crisp linens and timeless sophistication. The air hums with the theater of an open kitchen as classic French techniques are reimagined with breathtaking finesse, delivering velvet-smooth quenelles and golden-crusted duck bathed in rich, soulful sauces. It is a place where old-world glamour meets modern New York energy, inviting guests to lose themselves in a decadent, multi-sensory celebration of Gallic tradition.
• Stage Door Deli — American · rated 4.5/5: This iconic American deli hums with the vibrant energy of the theater district, surrounding diners with a nostalgic gallery of Broadway legends and the comforting scent of slow-cured meats. From the satisfying crunch of a house-made pickle to the warmth of a rich, golden broth, every dish celebrates the timeless tradition of the overstuffed sandwich in a space that feels both legendary and lived-in.
• Harry's — American · rated 4.5/5: Harry’s captures the timeless spirit of the classic American grill, where the warm glow of amber lighting reflects off polished brass and dark wood to create an atmosphere of effortless sophistication. The air carries the savory scent of seared prime cuts and the comforting aroma of golden, hand-cut fries, inviting guests to linger over elevated comfort food and perfectly chilled martinis in a space that feels both nostalgically familiar and vibrantly current.
• Crown Shy — American · rated 4.5/5: Set within the soaring Art Deco grandeur of a Financial District landmark, Crown Shy pulses with a sophisticated energy that balances architectural scale with an intimate, welcoming warmth. The open kitchen serves as a theatrical heart, turning out elevated American plates where bold, globally-inspired flavors meet meticulous technique in a room bathed in the soft glow of floor-to-ceiling windows. It is a masterclass in modern urban dining
• 19 Cleveland — Mediterranean · rated 4.5/5: Sun-drenched and draped in lush greenery, this airy Nolita escape captures the spirited energy of a Tel Aviv afternoon through its vibrant, herb-forward flavors and chic, open-air feel. The kitchen transforms seasonal ingredients into a tapestry of shared plates, where the warmth of fresh-baked pita meets the smoky char of the grill and the bright tang of citrus-infused cocktails, creating a communal celebration of Mediterranean soul.
• Pasquale Jones — Italian · rated 4.5/5: The rhythmic crackle of twin wood-burning ovens anchors this high-energy Nolita corner, where the intoxicating aroma of charred dough and sea salt beckons from a bustling open kitchen. Guests indulge in the artistry of fire-kissed cooking, savoring legendary blistered clam pizzas and succulent roasted meats that celebrate the bold, rustic simplicity of the Italian coast. Against a backdrop of curated vinyl beats, the space hums with a sophisticated yet soulful energy, transforming a simple dinner into a vibrant urban celebration.
• $1.50 Fresh Pizza — Italian · rated 4.5/5: The irresistible aroma of toasted dough and bubbling mozzarella spills onto the bustling sidewalk, inviting a steady stream of locals into this high-energy urban hub. Oversized slices are pulled piping hot from the oven, boasting a satisfyingly crisp crust and a molten layer of savory sauce that delivers a quintessential taste of the city in every bite. It is a vibrant, fast-paced sanctuary where the simple pleasure of a fresh, steaming slice provides a comforting anchor amidst the rush of the day.
• Pepolino — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Tucked away like a well-kept secret, this intimate Italian gem envelops guests in the earthy fragrance of wild thyme and the comforting glow of a rustic Tuscan farmhouse. Every bite of tender, hand-rolled pasta and slow-simmered ragu tells a story of tradition, inviting diners to slow down and lose themselves in the timeless charm of a soulful Florentine feast.
• Mikaku — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: Mikaku unfolds as a serene sanctuary of Japanese craft, where the minimalist glow of warm wood and the focused precision of the open kitchen create an atmosphere of quiet elegance. Diners are treated to a sensory dance of textures, from the buttery silk of hand-pressed nigiri to the deep, complex layers of umami found in every steaming, aromatic bowl. It is a destination that honors the seasons, transforming the finest ingredients into edible art that lingers on the palate long after the final course.
• David Burke Kitchen — American · rated 4.5/5: David Burke Kitchen captures the spirited essence of modern Americana, where rustic-chic design meets a playful, farm-to-table philosophy in a vibrant setting humming with creative energy. Each plate arrives as a work of culinary whimsy, transforming seasonal ingredients into bold, artfully composed dishes that surprise the palate and ignite the senses. It is a destination where sophisticated craftsmanship feels effortlessly approachable, inviting guests to linger over soulful
• Giardino D'Oro — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Bathed in a warm, golden glow, this refined sanctuary transports diners to the heart of Italy with its polished mahogany accents and an atmosphere of timeless sophistication. The air carries the enticing perfume of slow-simmered ragus and toasted garlic, while each plate arrives as a celebration of tradition, featuring velvety house-made pastas and succulent coastal flavors that linger long after the final sip of Chianti.
• Bayard Sushi — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: Bayard Sushi invites diners into a serene, wood-accented sanctuary where the rhythmic precision of the chef’s blade transforms the day’s freshest catch into vibrant, edible art. Each bite offers a masterclass in balance, from the delicate tang of perfectly seasoned rice to the buttery richness of marbled tuna that dissolves effortlessly on the palate. The intimate atmosphere hums with a quiet sophistication, making every meal feel like a private celebration of Japan’s most storied culinary traditions.
• Prince Street Pizza — Italian · rated 4.4/5: This legendary Soho corner pulses with energy as the intoxicating scent of spicy pepperoni and toasted dough wafts onto the sidewalk. Inside, thick Sicilian squares are transformed into golden masterpieces topped with curls of crisp, oil-filled pepperoni and a vibrant, zesty sauce that balances heat with sweetness. Each bite offers a symphony of textures, from the airy, pillowy center to the satisfying crunch of the charred crust, capturing the very soul of New York’s vibrant street-food culture.
• Paesano's — Italian · rated 4.4/5: Paesano’s captures the heart of a spirited Italian kitchen, where the air is heavy with the comforting aroma of roasted garlic and the vibrant zing of hand-crushed San Marzano tomatoes. Guests settle into a warm, inviting space to savor velvety handmade pastas and crusty, herb-dusted loaves that celebrate the simple beauty of old-world craftsmanship. It is a soulful retreat where every pour of Chianti and every shared plate feels like an invitation into a lively, timeless family tradition.
• Thai Diner — Thai · rated 4.4/5: Neon-lit nostalgia meets the bustling energy of a Bangkok night market in this whimsical space, where the scent of charred chilies and sweet basil wafts through a room filled with tropical greenery and retro diner charm. Every dish arrives as a vibrant explosion of Thai soul, balancing fiery heat and aromatic herbs to create a high-octane dining experience that feels both comfortingly familiar and thrillingly exotic.
• Il Cortile — Italian · rated 4.4/5: Il Cortile transports diners to a sun-dappled Italian courtyard where the gentle murmur of conversation mingles with the intoxicating aroma of slow-simmered ragu and freshly torn basil. Within this rustic sanctuary, plates of silken, hand-rolled pasta and vibrant Mediterranean flavors celebrate the soul of regional cooking, inviting guests to linger over a crisp glass of wine amidst an atmosphere of timeless, candlelit charm.
• Nobu Nobu — Japanese · rated 4.4/5: Nobu Nobu unfolds as a serene retreat of polished wood and soft, golden light, where the quiet precision of master sushi chefs transforms the finest seasonal catches into edible poetry. Guests are swept into a sensory journey of delicate textures and deep umami, from the buttery melt of marbled toro to the bright, citrusy zing of yuzu-kissed crudo. This intimate sanctuary harmonizes ancient tradition with a sleek, modern soul, offering a dining experience that is as visually stunning as it is profoundly flavorful.
• Fiat Café — Italian · rated 4.4/5: Fiat Café captures the sun-drenched charm of a vintage Italian bistro, where the aroma of simmering sauces and freshly ground espresso drifts through a space filled with nostalgic, European flair. Guests settle into intimate tables to savor silky, handmade pastas and vibrant seasonal plates that celebrate the simple, bold flavors of the Mediterranean, all while soaking in a warm neighborhood energy that feels like a cherished local secret.