Best Upscale Vegetarian Restaurants in Morningside Heights | Upscale & Vegetarian

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Vegetarian Restaurants in Morningside Heights | Upscale & Vegetarian

• Nai Brother Sauerkraut Fish — Chinese · rated 5/5: Steaming cauldrons of golden broth take center stage at this vibrant destination, where the sharp, tangy aroma of fermented greens meets the electrifying hum of Sichuan peppercorns. Silky fillets of tender fish melt into a complex, zesty soup base punctuated by the crunch of pickled cabbage and a fragrant finish of toasted chilies, offering a bold and soul-warming communal feast.
• Fumo — Italian · rated 5/5: Fumo invites guests into a chic, high-energy space where the sizzle of the kitchen and the hum of conversation create an irresistible urban pulse. Golden-fried riceballs and bubbling eggplant parmigiana arrive at candlelit tables alongside buttery lobster roll sliders, blending soulful Italian comfort with a sophisticated, modern edge. Whether sharing a plate of creamy burrata and prosciutto or crisp, spicy calamari, diners find a vibrant retreat where every bite celebrates bold flavors and effortless style.
• Dear Mama — Mexican · rated 5/5: Sunlight streams into this soulful neighborhood hub, where the rhythmic hiss of the espresso machine and the aroma of griddled brioche create a warm, communal embrace. Guests linger over poetic liquid creations like the floral Sakura Blossom or the shimmering Golden Hour latte, pairing their brews with vibrant plates of zesty avocado toast and the hearty, spice-kissed El Barrio B.E.C. It is a place where the morning ritual is elevated to an art form, blending urban energy with the comforting, familiar feeling of home.
• Charm Thai Express — Thai · rated 5/5: The air at Charm Thai Express hums with the rhythmic clatter of woks, where fresh ingredients are tossed in a fragrant dance of aromatic ginger, Thai basil, and toasted cashews. Crispy, golden-fried starters give way to velvety bowls of emerald green and rich Massaman curries, each simmered in creamy coconut milk to create a comforting balance of heat and sweetness. This vibrant spot brings the bold, soul-warming flavors of the East to life, offering a quick yet deeply flavorful escape for the senses.
• Omega Bakery & Cafe — Greek · rated 5/5: Sunlight streams through the windows of Omega Bakery & Cafe, where the vibrant hues of cold-pressed juices and creamy smoothies offer a refreshing, nutrient-packed antidote to the daily grind. Guests craft their own garden-fresh salads or dive into nourishing Asian vegetable bowls, while the comforting aroma of toasted bagels provides a warm, savory anchor to this bright and wholesome neighborhood retreat.
• Levain Bakery — American · rated 5/5: The air inside this iconic bakery hangs heavy with the intoxicating scent of toasted walnuts and browning butter, drawing crowds toward counters piled high with legendary, mountain-like cookies. Each massive confection boasts a perfectly craggy, golden exterior that gives way to a dense, molten core of gooey chocolate and premium ingredients, ranging from the classic walnut-studded original to decadent dark chocolate peanut butter. Whether breaking into a warm, oversized treat on a bustling street corner or sharing a box of assorted flavors, every bite offers a rich, indulgent escape that redefines the quintessential American cookie.
• Le Monde — French · rated 4.7/5: Le Monde transports diners to a sun-dappled Parisian corner where the golden glow of vintage lamps illuminates tables laden with buttery escargot and velvety red wine reductions. The air hums with the rhythmic clink of crystal and spirited conversation, inviting guests to linger over crusty baguettes and rich, herb-flecked classics that capture the soulful essence of French gastronomy.
• Ortomare Ristorante Pizzeria — Italian · rated 4.7/5: Ortomare Ristorante Pizzeria captures the vibrant spirit of the Italian coast and countryside, where the warmth of a wood-fired oven meets the breezy elegance of a Mediterranean escape. Sun-ripened produce and fresh catches from the sea come together on plates of artisanal pasta and blistered, thin-crust pizzas, each bite celebrating the harmony of simple, high-quality ingredients. Guests find a welcoming sanctuary where authentic flavors and heartfelt hospitality turn every meal into a leisurely celebration of the good life.
• Dos Toros Restaurant — Mexican · rated 4.6/5: Dos Toros pulses with the vibrant energy of a bustling taqueria, where the rhythmic sound of cleavers and the aroma of charred chilies create an atmosphere of spirited, fast-paced craftsmanship. Golden, hand-pressed tortillas wrap around slow-simmered meats and zesty, house-made salsas, delivering a punch of bright, West Coast-inspired flavor in every bite. It is a lively destination where the creamy richness of hand-mashed guacamole meets the smoky heat of adobo, offering a fresh and authentic tribute to the bold culinary traditions of San Francisco’s Mission District.
• Baylander Steel Beach — American · rated 4.6/5: Perched atop a historic decommissioned aircraft carrier, this floating oasis invites diners to trade the city pavement for a breezy deck where the Hudson River sunset serves as a breathtaking backdrop. The air hums with a spirited energy as guests savor buttery lobster rolls and flame-grilled burgers, all while sipping chilled cocktails in a unique industrial setting that captures the essence of a New York summer on the water.
• Elis Wine Bar — Mediterranean · rated 4.6/5: Bathed in the warm glow of amber lighting and the rhythmic clinking of crystal, Elis Wine Bar transports guests to a sun-drenched coastal escape where the air is thick with the scent of toasted spices and sea salt. Vibrant Mediterranean flavors come alive through artfully composed plates that celebrate the bounty of the land and sea, perfectly paired with a curated cellar of regional vintages. This convivial sanctuary invites long, lingering evenings where the spirit of the Old World meets modern elegance in every shared bite.
• Pancho's Antojitos Mexicano — Mexican · rated 4.6/5: Pancho's Antojitos Mexicano captures the vibrant energy of a bustling street market, where the air is thick with the savory scent of toasted masa and the sizzle of slow-simmered spices. This lively neighborhood gem brings together the bold textures and bright, zesty flavors of traditional Mexican street food, creating a soulful dining experience that feels like a festive celebration in the heart of Mexico.
• Lido — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Lido captures the sun-drenched spirit of the Italian coast, welcoming guests into a breezy, light-filled space that hums with the effortless elegance of a Mediterranean summer. The air carries the intoxicating aroma of charred crusts and simmering pomodoro, as the kitchen turns out silken, hand-rolled pastas and vibrant seafood dishes that celebrate the simple, soulful beauty of seasonal ingredients. It is a place designed for lingering, where crisp glasses of wine and shared rustic plates invite diners to slow down and savor the timeless rhythm of la dolce vita.
• Pisticci — Italian · rated 4.5/5: Bathed in the soft glow of candlelight and the soulful strains of live jazz, this neighborhood sanctuary wraps guests in a rustic embrace of exposed brick and local art. The kitchen breathes life into traditional Southern Italian flavors, where the aroma of slow-simmered ragu mingles with the brightness of farm-to-table produce to create plates of silky, hand-rolled pasta. Every meal feels like a spirited celebration of community and craft, offering a timeless escape that lingers long after the last drop of wine is poured.
• Falafel on Broadway — Middle Eastern · rated 4.5/5: The scent of toasted cumin and fresh coriander spills onto the sidewalk, drawing diners into a vibrant space where the rhythmic sizzle of the fryer creates a lively urban soundtrack. Golden, herb-flecked falafel nests inside pillowy pita alongside velvety hummus and zesty pickled cabbage, offering a masterclass in contrasting textures and sun-drenched Middle Eastern flavors. This bustling haven of culinary tradition transforms a quick Broadway bite into a fragrant, soulful journey through the heart of the Levant.
• Koko Wings — Korean · rated 4.4/5: Step into a high-energy space where the rhythmic crunch of double-fried chicken serves as the soundtrack to a vibrant Korean dining experience. Each piece is hand-brushed with savory soy garlic or fiery hot glazes that glisten under the warm lights, offering a shatteringly crisp exterior that gives way to tender, succulent meat. It’s a soulful destination where the bold, umami-rich flavors of Seoul meet a casual, welcoming atmosphere perfect for sharing a mountain of wings and a cold drink.
• Fumo — Italian · rated 4.4/5: Fumo invites diners into a sleek, dimly lit sanctuary where the intoxicating scent of wood-smoke and toasted flour sets the stage for a modern Italian feast. Hand-stretched pizzas emerge from the glowing oven with perfectly blistered crusts, while silken ribbons of pasta are tossed in rich, slow-simmered ragus that evoke the warmth of a traditional Roman kitchen. It is a place where the energy of a bustling open kitchen meets the intimacy of a candlelit table, creating an atmosphere that feels both effortlessly cool and deeply comforting.
• Melba's — American · rated 4.3/5: Melba’s pulses with the vibrant energy of a neighborhood gathering, where the air is thick with the comforting aroma of golden-fried chicken and sweet, buttery waffles. This soulful sanctuary invites guests to linger over plates of elevated American comfort food, blending a warm, communal atmosphere with flavors that feel like a heartfelt embrace.
• Angel of Harlem — American · rated 4.3/5: Pulsing with the vibrant energy of its namesake neighborhood, this stylish social hub blends urban sophistication with a soulful, high-octane atmosphere where the rhythm of the music perfectly matches the spirit of the crowd. The kitchen reimagines American comfort through a bold, Afro-Latin lens, serving up plates that pop with color and spice alongside tropical-infused cocktails that keep the celebration going from sun-drenched brunch to late-night revelry.
• Nikko Hibachi Asian Fusion — Japanese · rated 4.3/5: The air crackles with theatrical energy as skilled chefs command the hibachi grills, transforming fresh ingredients into a mesmerizing display of leaping flames and rhythmic clanging. This culinary stage gives way to a sophisticated fusion of flavors, where delicate, jewel-toned sushi meets the bold, savory depth of contemporary Asian-inspired plates. It is a vibrant destination that balances the high-octane excitement of the grill with a sleek, modern atmosphere perfect for shared celebrations and lingering over creative cocktails.
• Amity Hall Uptown — American · rated 4.3/5: This expansive, bi-level gastropub pulses with neighborhood energy, blending industrial-chic aesthetics with the cozy, communal spirit of a traditional beer hall. Sun-drenched by day and glowing with amber light by night, it is a place where the clinking of craft beer flights meets the savory aroma of elevated tavern fare and char-grilled burgers. Whether tucked into a leather booth or gathered around
• Thai Market — Thai · rated 4.3/5: Stepping into Thai Market feels like a sensory journey to the heart of Southeast Asia, where the air is thick with the fragrance of toasted chilies, fresh galangal, and aromatic jasmine rice. The kitchen hums with the rhythmic clatter of woks, turning out vibrant plates that masterfully balance the bright zing of lime with the rich, velvety depth of coconut milk. It is a lively, sun-drenched space where every bite captures the bold, soul-warming spirit of traditional Thai street food.
• Symposium — Greek · rated 4.3/5: Sun-drenched and spirited, this Hellenic haven transports diners to a seaside taverna where the air is perfumed with the aroma of charred octopus and wild oregano. Vibrant mezze and succulent, flame-kissed meats take center stage, inviting guests to linger over shared plates and crisp carafes of wine in a space that radiates Mediterranean warmth. Every meal unfolds as a lively celebration of tradition, where the simple joy of good company meets the bold, salt-kissed flavors of the Greek isles.
• The Fox — American · rated 4.3/5: Tucked away in a space defined by rich textures and soft, inviting light, The Fox captures the essence of the modern American bistro through a lens of rustic elegance. The air is thick with the aroma of wood-fired specialties and garden-fresh ingredients, creating a sensory journey that honors traditional flavors while embracing a bold, contemporary spirit. It is a place where the hum of lively conversation meets the refined comfort of a perfectly executed meal, making every visit feel like a special occasion.
• Sapps — Japanese · rated 4.3/5: Sapps captures the electric energy of a modern Tokyo eatery, blending industrial-chic design with the warm, inviting glow of a neighborhood haunt. The air hums with the sizzle of the grill and the precise slice of the sushi knife, delivering a sensory journey that ranges from the buttery melt of premium nigiri to the deep, complex depths of slow-simmered broths. It is a place where traditional craftsmanship meets contemporary flair, offering a spirited escape where every shared plate and chilled glass of sake celebrates the art of Japanese hospitality.
• The Heights Bar & Grill — American · rated 4.2/5: Perched high above the bustling streets, The Heights Bar & Grill offers a vibrant escape where the clinking of artisanal cocktails mingles with the savory aroma of flame-grilled burgers and golden, hand-cut fries. Guests soak in sweeping views from the sun-drenched terrace, enjoying a spirited atmosphere that transforms from a breezy afternoon hangout into a sophisticated, starlit destination for elevated American comfort food.
• Home Sweet Harlem — American · rated 4.2/5: Bathed in the golden glow of Harlem sunlight, this soulful neighborhood sanctuary welcomes guests with the comforting aroma of sizzling griddle favorites and freshly brewed coffee. Exposed brick walls adorned with local artistry create an intimate backdrop for lingering over plates of elevated American comfort, where the vibrant spirit of the community meets the heartfelt warmth of a home-cooked meal.
• Freda's Caribbean and Soul Cuisine — American · rated 4.2/5: Freda’s Caribbean and Soul Cuisine serves as a vibrant crossroads where the fiery spirit of the islands meets the deep, comforting traditions of the American South. The air hums with the intoxicating scent of pimento-smoked meats and slow-simmered greens, drawing guests into a space that feels both festive and familiar. Each plate is a colorful celebration of heritage, offering a soulful symphony of spice and heart that warms the spirit long after the last bite.
• La Savane — French · rated 4.1/5: La Savane unfolds as a sun-drenched sanctuary where the crisp linens of a classic French brasserie meet a warm, earthy palette of textures and light. The kitchen breathes life into the soul of France, sending out plates of silken sauces, herb-crusted meats, and delicate patisserie that celebrate the art of the slow, indulgent meal. It is a place where the clink of crystal and the aroma of browned butter create an atmosphere of effortless sophistication, inviting diners to lose themselves in a symphony of Gallic flavors.
• Miss Mamie's Spoonbread Too — American · rated 4/5: Step into a nostalgic Harlem sanctuary where the air is thick with the comforting aroma of golden-crisp fried chicken and the sweet, buttery fragrance of its namesake spoonbread. Red-checkered tablecloths and walls adorned with memories create a soulful backdrop for generous plates of velvety mac and cheese and slow-simmered greens that evoke the warmth of a family kitchen. This neighborhood landmark captures the heart of Southern hospitality, offering a soul-satisfying experience that feels like a homecoming in every bite.