Skip to main content
0 Followers

Free analytics & customer insights

Willow Vegan Bistro

199 8th Ave, New York, NY 10011
$$$
Vegan, New American, Kosher, American

Vibe Check this spot

Rate this spot and tag the vibes that fit

Log In to Add Vibe Check

Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)

Willow Vegan Bistro 8.4
Chelsea
A vegan bistro offering fresh, plant-based dishes in a modern, inviting space.
Must-Try Dishes: Vegan Burger, Avocado Toast, Chickpea Salad
Scores:
Value: 8.2 Service: 8.3 Consistency: 8.6 Food Quality: 8.7 Atmosphere: 8 Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Vegan comfort food with a healthy twist.
Who should go: Vegan food lovers and health-conscious eaters.
When to visit: For a healthy lunch or weekend brunch.
What to order: Vegan burger, avocado toast, chickpea salad.
Insider tip: Their vegan burger is a local favorite!
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available but can be difficult during peak hours. There is a nearby parking garage ($20/hour).
Dress code: Casual, comfortable attire is ideal. Jeans and a t-shirt are perfectly fine.
Noise level: Moderate - conversation is easy, but it can get a little lively during brunch hours.
Weekend wait: 45-60 min without reservation
Weekday lunch: No wait typically
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - a variety of vegetarian options are available.
Vegan options: Yes - the entire menu is vegan.
Gluten-free options: Yes - there are gluten-free options, and the staff is knowledgeable about cross-contamination.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, it’s a great choice for a first date. The inviting atmosphere and plant-based menu provide a casual yet thoughtful vibe, perfect for a relaxed conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? You can usually walk in during weekdays, but weekends, especially brunch, can get busy. Reservations are recommended for peak hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, it's suitable for kids. The menu offers mild, kid-friendly dishes like avocado toast and the vegan burger. High chairs are available upon request.
Best For
Better for: This place excels in offering flavorful, hearty vegan comfort food with a healthier twist, making it stand out compared to other vegan spots that may focus more on light or raw dishes.
Skip if: If you're looking for a traditional non-vegan menu or a more upscale dining experience, this might not be the place.
Willow Vegan Bistro 8.5
Chelsea
Willow Vegan Bistro offers cozy, contemporary vegan comfort food — from “steak” sandwiches to mac‑and‑cheese and plant‑based brunch — in a warm Chelsea bistro setting. It’s a reliable spot for vegans and omnivores alike, with consistently good service and hearty portions. The inviting ambiance and wide menu make it ideal for casual dinners or weekend brunches.
Must-Try Dishes: Philly ‘Cheesesteak’ Sandwich, Truffle Mac and Cheese, Coconut Pandan Cake
Scores:
Value: 8.3 Service: 8.5 Consistency: 8.6 Food Quality: 8.4 Atmosphere: 8 Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Plant‑based comfort dishes with consistent quality and welcoming bistro atmosphere.
Who should go: Vegans, flexitarians, comfort‑food lovers.
When to visit: Weekend brunch or casual dinner.
What to order: Philly ‘Cheesesteak’ Sandwich; Truffle Mac and Cheese; Coconut Pandan Cake.
Insider tip: Try brunch early on weekends — quieter and cozy atmosphere.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available but difficult to find during peak hours; no valet service.
Dress code: Casual - comfortable attire, jeans and a nice top are appropriate.
Noise level: Moderate - conversation is easy, though it can get a bit lively during peak hours.
Weekend wait: Expect a 30-45 minute wait without a reservation on weekends.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically, especially on weekdays.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - many vegetarian options available, including on the brunch menu.
Vegan options: Yes - the entire menu is plant-based, with plenty of choices.
Gluten-free options: Yes - several gluten-free options available, though not a dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, it’s a cozy spot with a relaxed vibe, perfect for conversation and impressing your date with flavorful, plant-based dishes.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It’s possible, but reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend brunch. You may face a wait during peak hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, Willow Vegan Bistro is kid-friendly, with a casual atmosphere and simple, flavorful dishes that kids will enjoy.
Best For
Better for: Willow Vegan Bistro excels in offering a variety of plant-based comfort foods in a warm, inviting setting, making it ideal for vegans and omnivores alike who want hearty, familiar meals.
Skip if: Skip if you’re looking for fine dining or more exotic plant-based cuisine, as the focus here is on familiar comfort foods rather than innovative vegan dishes.