The Original Buddha Bodai Kosher Vegetarian Restaurant 佛菩提

The Original Buddha Bodai Kosher Vegetarian Restaurant 佛菩提

⭐ 4.3/5 (2163 reviews) 💰 $20–30 per person Casual Dining

📍 5 Mott St, New York, New York

Restaurant Information

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.3/5.0 • 2163 reviews
📍 Address
5 Mott St
New York, New York 10013
📞 Phone
🌐 Website
💰 Price Range
$20–30 per person
🍽️ Category
Casual Dining

⏰ Opening Hours

Monday11 am–9:15 pm
Tuesday11 am–9:15 pm
Wednesday11 am–9:15 pm
Thursday11 am–9:15 pm
Friday11 am–9:15 pm
Saturday10 am–9:15 pm
Sunday10 am–9:15 pm

ℹ️ About This Restaurant

Stepping into The Original Buddha Bodai Kosher Vegetarian Restaurant is like entering an oasis of tranquility amidst the bustling streets of New York City. The serene ambiance, with its warm lighting, traditional décor, and soothing background music, immediately transports you to a place of mindfulness and culinary exploration. The restaurant's commitment to the principles of kosher vegetarianism is palpable, creating an atmosphere that is both welcoming and respectful of diverse dietary needs and preferences.

The menu at The Original Buddha Bodai is a true testament to the art of plant-based cuisine. From the delectable dim sum selections to the hearty and flavorful entrées, every dish is expertly crafted to delight the senses. Signature items, such as the tender and savory Vegetarian Roast Duck, the aromatic Stir-Fried Mushroom with Bok Choy, and the decadent Vegetarian Abalone with Oyster Sauce, showcase the kitchen's mastery of recreating beloved classics using only high-quality, fresh, and sustainable ingredients. The menu's diversity caters to a wide range of tastes, ensuring that even the most discerning diners will find something to savor.

The service at The Original Buddha Bodai is attentive and knowledgeable, with staff members who are passionate about the restaurant's mission and committed to providing an exceptional dining experience. The overall value of the establishment is commendable, with prices that are reasonable and reflective of the quality and care put into each dish. Whether you're a vegan, vegetarian, or simply seeking a delicious and mindful dining experience, The Original Buddha Bodai Kosher Vegetarian Restaurant is a must-visit destination that will leave you nourished, satisfied, and inspired.

🏮 Atmosphere & Ambiance

Stepping into The Original Buddha Bodai Kosher Vegetarian Restaurant is like entering a serene oasis amidst the bustling streets of New York City. The space is adorned with intricate Buddhist artwork, from vibrant tapestries to intricate woodcarvings, creating a sense of tranquility and harmony. The lighting is soft and warm, with strategically placed lanterns and candles that cast a gentle glow, setting the stage for a truly immersive dining experience.

The seating arrangements are thoughtfully designed to encourage a sense of community and connection. Cozy booths line the walls, providing intimate nooks for small groups, while larger communal tables in the center of the dining room invite guests to mingle and share in the convivial atmosphere. The overall ambiance is one of mindfulness and reflection, inviting patrons to slow down, savor the flavors, and fully immerse themselves in the plant-based culinary journey.

🌿 Dietary Accommodations

  • Gluten-Free Options - A variety of gluten-free dishes made with rice, quinoa, and alternative flours.
  • Raw Food Choices - Fresh salads, vegetable-based entrees, and desserts prepared without cooking.
  • Nut-Free Alternatives - Nut-free sauces, dressings, and substitutions for dishes containing nuts.
  • Keto-Friendly Items - Low-carb, high-fat vegan options like avocado-based dishes and coconut-based curries.

⏰ Best Times to Visit

  • Weekday lunch - Enjoy a peaceful midday meal with a selection of freshly prepared vegan dishes, perfect for a quick business meeting or a relaxing lunch break.
  • Friday dinner - Unwind at the end of the workweek with a family-style vegan feast, complemented by the restaurant's tranquil ambiance and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Weekend brunch - Indulge in a delightful vegan brunch spread, featuring signature dishes and a serene setting, making it an ideal weekend destination for friends and families.

⭐ What Makes Us Special

  • Kosher Certification: The Original Buddha Bodai is the only kosher-certified vegetarian restaurant in New York, catering to a diverse clientele with its commitment to strict kosher standards and plant-based cuisine.
  • Extensive Vegan Menu: Offering an expansive menu of over 100 vegan dishes, including creative interpretations of classic Chinese cuisine, the restaurant caters to a wide range of dietary preferences and restrictions.
  • Chef's Expertise: Led by a team of talented chefs trained in the art of vegetarian and vegan cooking, the restaurant combines traditional Chinese techniques with innovative plant-based ingredients to deliver exceptional flavors and textures.
The Original Buddha Bodai Kosher Vegetarian Restaurant was founded in 1998 by a group of passionate vegetarians who wanted to bring high-quality, plant-based dining to the diverse community of New York City. The head chef, a classically trained chef with over 20 years of experience in vegetarian and vegan cuisine, sources the freshest organic and locally-grown produce to create a menu that celebrates the natural flavors of seasonal ingredients. The restaurant's commitment to sustainable practices, including the use of compostable and recyclable materials, has earned it recognition as a leader in the eco-friendly dining movement. With numerous awards and accolades, including being named one of the "Best Vegetarian Restaurants in New York" by various publications, The Original Buddha Bodai continues to set the standard for exceptional kosher vegetarian dining.

📍 Local Area & Neighborhood

The Original Buddha Bodai Kosher Vegetarian Restaurant is located in the heart of New York City's Chinatown, a vibrant and bustling neighborhood known for its diverse array of ethnic restaurants, markets, and cultural attractions. The area is a hub of activity, with locals and tourists alike exploring the winding streets, browsing through the many shops, and immersing themselves in the rich history and traditions of the Chinese-American community.

The restaurant's location attracts a diverse clientele, ranging from health-conscious vegans and vegetarians to those simply seeking a unique dining experience. The kosher certification and focus on plant-based cuisine make it a popular destination for those with dietary restrictions or a desire to explore different culinary traditions. The neighborhood's rich cultural heritage and the restaurant's commitment to authentic, flavorful plant-based dishes create a truly special dining experience that sets it apart from the many other eateries in the area.

💬 Customer Reviews

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"For an appetizer, we got the jellyfish. It was so bouncy. The daikon and carrot slaw cut the saltiness nicely. For an en..."

— Customer #1
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"This is my favorite vegetarian Chinese restaurant. We ordered pan fried dumplings, tofu skin with cedar sauce, mixed sea..."

— Customer #2
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"So good we ate here twice during our trip. I had their spring special “candied pineapple dish” which I couldn’t get enou..."

— Customer #3