Franchia Vegan Café

Franchia Vegan Café

⭐ 4.6/5 (1813 reviews) 💰 $20–30 per person Casual Dining

📍 12 Park Ave, New York, New York

Restaurant Information

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6/5.0 • 1813 reviews
📍 Address
12 Park Ave
New York, New York 10016
📞 Phone
🌐 Website
💰 Price Range
$20–30 per person
🍽️ Category
Casual Dining

⏰ Opening Hours

Monday12–9 pm
Tuesday12–9 pm
Wednesday12–9 pm
Thursday12–9 pm
Friday12–9:30 pm
Saturday12–9:30 pm
Sunday12–9 pm

ℹ️ About This Restaurant

Nestled in the heart of New York City, Franchia Vegan Café offers a tranquil oasis of calm amidst the bustling streets. As you step through the door, you're greeted by a warm, inviting atmosphere that seamlessly blends traditional Asian design elements with a modern, sophisticated flair. The space is bathed in soft lighting, creating a serene and relaxing ambiance, perfect for a leisurely meal or a casual catch-up with friends.

At Franchia, the focus is squarely on serving up exceptional vegan cuisine that tantalizes the taste buds. The menu is a celebration of global flavors, with a diverse array of dishes that cater to every palate. From the tangy and refreshing Kimchi Fried Rice to the hearty and satisfying Tempeh Teriyaki, each item is meticulously crafted using the freshest, high-quality ingredients. The restaurant's signature dishes, such as the Spicy Korean Dumplings and the Miso Mushroom Bimbimbap, have become beloved favorites among regulars and newcomers alike, showcasing the kitchen's mastery of both traditional and innovative vegan cooking techniques.

The service at Franchia is attentive and welcoming, with knowledgeable staff who are eager to guide diners through the menu and offer recommendations. The overall value proposition is impressive, with the high-quality food, generous portions, and pleasant ambiance creating a dining experience that is both satisfying and affordable. Whether you're a dedicated vegan or simply looking to explore the possibilities of plant-based cuisine, Franchia Vegan Café is a must-visit destination that will leave you feeling nourished, satisfied, and inspired.

🏮 Atmosphere & Ambiance

Stepping into Franchia Vegan Café is like being transported to a serene oasis in the heart of bustling New York City. The restaurant's decor evokes a harmonious blend of traditional Korean and modern design elements, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The soft lighting from delicate paper lanterns and the natural wood accents throughout the space give the cafe a cozy and tranquil ambiance, while the minimalist aesthetic and clean lines lend an air of sophistication.

The seating arrangements at Franchia Vegan Café are both comfortable and conducive to a relaxed dining experience. Intimate tables for two are scattered throughout the space, allowing for quiet conversations and intimate gatherings, while larger communal tables encourage a sense of community and shared enjoyment of the delectable vegan fare. The overall ambiance of the cafe is one of zen-like tranquility, providing a welcome respite from the city's hustle and bustle.

🌿 Dietary Accommodations

  • Gluten-Free Options - A variety of gluten-free dishes made with alternative flours and grains.
  • Raw Food Choices - Selection of raw vegan entrees, salads, and desserts using fresh produce.
  • Nut-Free Alternatives - Nut-free sauces, dressings, and proteins for those with nut allergies.
  • Keto-Friendly Items - Low-carb, high-fat vegan options like avocado, coconut, and nut-based dishes.

⏰ Best Times to Visit

  • Weekday lunch - Enjoy a peaceful mid-day meal and take a break from the bustling city streets of New York.
  • Friday dinner - End the workweek on a high note with a delicious plant-based meal and a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Weekend brunch - Indulge in a leisurely brunch with friends or family, savoring creative vegan dishes in a cozy setting.

⭐ What Makes Us Special

  • Korean-inspired vegan cuisine: Franchia Vegan Café offers a unique twist on traditional vegan fare, featuring a menu inspired by the flavors of Korea, including dishes like Korean BBQ tofu and kimchi pancakes.
  • Elegant, modern ambiance: With its sleek, minimalist design and serene, zen-like atmosphere, Franchia Vegan Café provides a dining experience that is both visually stunning and deeply relaxing.
  • Extensive tea selection: In addition to its innovative vegan cuisine, Franchia Vegan Café boasts an impressive selection of loose-leaf teas, sourced from across Asia and expertly brewed to perfection.
Franchia Vegan Café is led by Chef Esther Choi, a Korean-American chef who has honed her skills in some of New York's most renowned vegan restaurants. Franchia sources its ingredients from local, sustainable suppliers, with a focus on organic and non-GMO produce. The restaurant's preparation methods emphasize clean, wholesome flavors, with an emphasis on fermentation and traditional Korean cooking techniques. In addition to its regular menu, Franchia offers a range of seasonal specials, as well as a popular weekend brunch service. The restaurant has been recognized with multiple awards, including a "Best Vegan Restaurant" designation from Time Out New York.

📍 Local Area & Neighborhood

Franchia Vegan Café is situated in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, just a short walk from the iconic Bryant Park and the bustling Grand Central Terminal. The neighborhood is a vibrant mix of office buildings, high-end retail, and cultural institutions, creating a lively and diverse atmosphere. The nearby New York Public Library, with its stunning Beaux-Arts architecture, adds to the area's rich cultural heritage.

Franchia's clientele is a diverse mix of health-conscious locals, office workers, and tourists seeking a respite from the city's fast pace. The café's location, just blocks from Times Square and the Theater District, makes it a popular destination for theatergoers and those looking for a wholesome, plant-based meal before or after a show. The restaurant's commitment to sustainable and ethical practices, combined with its cozy and inviting ambiance, make it a standout destination in the heart of the city.

💬 Customer Reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Wow! What a pleasant surprise to stumble upon a fully vegan pan Asian restaurant in Manhattan . The Wide and eclectic me..."

— Customer #1
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"The sushi roll is amazing. The Thai noodle was okay but a bit pricy. The Korean crispy tofu is also good but not perfect..."

— Customer #2
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Excellent Korean vegan restaurant that has a Zen vibe but more casual than its sister restaurant Hangawi. Been here a fe..."

— Customer #3