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Lucky Vegetarian
Master Critic Review
Lucky Vegetarian
8.7
Lucky Vegetarian operates in the basement of a Buddhist temple on 8th Avenue, serving a long menu of Chinese dishes built around mock meats and vegetable-centric plates with many clearly marked vegan options. Portions are generous, prices stay modest for the quality, and locals treat it as a calm, no-frills spot for plant-based takes on Chinatown classics.
Must-Try Dishes:
Vegan sesame chicken, General Tso’s vegan beef, Fish filet with bean curd combo
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Basement temple dining room turning classic Chinese dishes fully meatless.
Who should go: Plant-based eaters craving familiar Chinese takeout flavors.
When to visit: Early dinner or weekend lunch for unhurried, relaxed meals.
What to order: Vegan sesame chicken, General Tso’s vegan beef, bean curd combo.
Insider tip: Ask which mock-meat dishes can be prepared fully vegan that day.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited on 8th Avenue and can be difficult after 6pm; allow extra time or consider public transit.
Dress code: Casual and practical — jeans, sneakers, and everyday wear are perfectly fine.
Noise level: Low to moderate — generally calm and quiet enough for easy conversation.
Weekend wait: 15–30 minutes during peak hours, especially Friday and Saturday evenings.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait or a very short wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — the entire menu is geared toward vegetarian diners with extensive mock-meat options.
Vegan options: Yes — most dishes can be prepared fully vegan and many are already marked as vegan.
Gluten-free options: Limited — some vegetable-based dishes can be adapted, but soy sauce and wheat-based mock meats are common.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you value a calm, low-pressure setting and conversation over a flashy atmosphere.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, walk-ins are standard and most parties are seated without much delay outside of peak weekend dinner hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, for school-age kids who enjoy noodles, rice, and mild flavors; there are no high chairs or kids menus.
Best For
Better for: Quieter, more relaxed vegetarian dining with a deep menu of mock-meat Chinese classics at moderate prices.
Skip if: You want a trendy vibe, cocktails, or modern fusion-style vegan food instead of traditional Chinese dishes.