0 Followers
Spicy Moon West Village
Master Critic Review
Spicy Moon West Village
8.7
Spicy Moon’s West Village outpost is a fully vegan Szechuan restaurant where chili-oil-soaked dumplings, dan dan noodles, and mapo tofu anchor a lively dining room with cocktails. It’s one of downtown’s most in-demand plant-based spots, drawing both vegans and spice-seekers for shareable plates and group dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Dan Dan Noodles, Dumplings in Chili Oil, Kung Pao Mushroom
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 6.9
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: All-vegan Szechuan cooking with real heat, cocktails, and a buzzy West Village room.
Who should go: Spice-loving vegans and groups who share lots of plates.
When to visit: Weeknights before 7pm or late-night to avoid peak queues.
What to order: Dumplings in chili oil, dan dan noodles, mapo tofu.
Insider tip: Book a Resy and ask for a back-room table if you want easier conversation.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in the West Village; expect meter scarcity after 5pm. No valet. Paid garages available within a 3–5 minute walk on W 3rd St and Bleecker St.
Dress code: Trendy smart casual; jeans are fine but most guests lean polished for date nights and group dinners.
Noise level: Moderately loud during peak hours; still manageable for conversation if seated in the back room.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation during prime hours.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; walk-ins are seated quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — the entire menu is vegetarian by default, with numerous plant-based takes on Szechuan classics.
Vegan options: Yes — fully vegan kitchen, including sauces and noodles.
Gluten-free options: Some options available (e.g., certain vegetable dishes and rice-based plates), but no dedicated gluten-free prep area; cross-contact possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the dim, buzzy atmosphere and shareable plates work well for a fun, interactive first date, though spice levels can be intense for sensitive diners.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes — early evenings and late nights offer the best shot. Expect a wait during prime weekend dinner hours; bar seating may open sooner.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly — the menu skews spicy, the room is lively, and there are no kid-specific options. Best for teens or older children who enjoy bold flavors.
Best For
Better for: One of the best choices downtown for fully vegan Szechuan dishes with real heat and a lively, cocktail-driven dining room.
Skip if: Skip if you prefer mild flavors, need strict gluten-free protocols, or want a quiet, low-key dinner.