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LuAnne's Wild Ginger
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
LuAnne's Wild Ginger
8.3
On Smith Street in Cobble Hill, LuAnne's Wild Ginger serves a fully vegan pan-Asian menu built around seitan, tofu, and vegetables in curries, stir-fries, and noodle bowls. It works as a relaxed date-night or small-group spot where familiar takeout flavors get a slightly more polished, sit-down treatment.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crispy Soy Protein, Prosperity Platter, Grilled Miso Eggplant
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 6.3
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Long-running all-vegan Asian menu with lots of familiar favorites.
Who should go: Plant-based diners wanting sit-down Asian comfort with friends.
When to visit: Weeknight dinners or low-key weekend dates before nearby bars.
What to order: Crispy Soy Protein, Prosperity Platter, Grilled Miso Eggplant.
Insider tip: Go for lunch specials to sample multiple plates at better value.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Smith Street and surrounding blocks is limited, especially after 6pm; metered spots open up more steadily closer to Atlantic Avenue.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; most guests wear neat everyday attire, but it’s polished enough for a relaxed date night.
Noise level: Moderate; you can hold a conversation comfortably, though peak hours bring a steady dining-room hum.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes without a reservation, longer during prime 7–8pm windows.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, with quick seating for solos and pairs.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — the entire menu is plant-based, with many vegetable-forward dishes and tofu options.
Vegan options: Yes — everything is fully vegan, including sauces and proteins.
Gluten-free options: Several dishes are gluten-free or can be made gluten-free; ask for guidance on soy-based proteins and noodle swaps.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The warm lighting, cozy tables, and neatly plated dishes create an easy, low-pressure environment that still feels intentional.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes on weeknights and early weekend hours, though peak weekend dinner slots fill quickly. Arriving before 6:30pm improves your chances.
Is it kid-friendly? Appropriate for older kids who enjoy Asian-style noodles and stir-fries; the room is compact and better suited for calm, seated dining than very young children.
Best For
Better for: A fully vegan Asian menu with reliably balanced flavors in a relaxed, slightly dressy setting ideal for dates and small groups.
Skip if: You want highly spicy regional dishes, ultra-fast counter service, or very budget-friendly pricing — nearby casual spots will fit better.
LuAnne's Wild Ginger
8.6
On Smith Street in Cobble Hill, LuAnne's Wild Ginger serves a fully vegan pan-Asian menu built around seitan, tofu, and vegetables in curries, stir-fries, and noodle bowls. It’s a go-to vegetarian destination for sit-down dinners where familiar takeout flavors get a more polished, restaurant-style treatment. Consistent crowds and multiple locations reflect its role as a longtime plant-based staple in the neighborhood.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crispy Soy Protein with broccoli, Prosperity Platter appetizer sampler, Grilled Miso Eggplant with rice
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 6.8
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: A fully vegan pan-Asian menu with decades of neighborhood loyalty.
Who should go: Plant-based diners wanting sit-down Asian comfort and variety.
When to visit: Weeknight dinners or early weekend evenings before peak rush.
What to order: Crispy Soy Protein, Grilled Miso Eggplant, Prosperity Platter.
Insider tip: Ask about off-menu vegetable specials; they often have seasonal stir-fries.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Smith Street is limited; expect to circle during peak dinner hours. Metered spots are easier to find on adjacent residential blocks before 6pm.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual. Most guests wear neat jeans, sweaters, and relaxed date-night attire.
Noise level: Moderate. Conversation is comfortable at two-tops, but peak weekend dinners bring a steady hum.
Weekend wait: 20–35 minutes for walk-ins around 6:30–8pm; faster for small parties.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, even for groups of 3–4.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — the entire menu is designed for vegetarian diners with many protein options built from tofu, soy, and vegetables.
Vegan options: Yes — the restaurant is fully vegan. Nearly every dish is plant-based by default.
Gluten-free options: Several dishes are gluten-free or can be modified; staff will guide you toward safer sauces and noodle choices.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The setting is warm, polished, and relaxed, making it ideal for conversation without feeling too formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually. Walk-ins are common, especially on weeknights; on weekends, arriving before 6:30pm helps secure a table quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who enjoy noodles, curries, and mild stir-fries. The space is cozy but manageable for families.
Best For
Better for: A more polished, sit-down take on familiar Asian comfort dishes with consistent vegan execution and balanced portions.
Skip if: You want fiery regional spice levels, experimental cuisine, or a large, boisterous dining room for big gatherings.