Willow Vegan Bistro And Cocktail Bar

Willow Vegan Bistro And Cocktail Bar

⭐ 4.6/5 (1070 reviews) 💰 $30–50 per person Casual Dining

📍 199 8th Ave, New York, New Jersey

Restaurant Information

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6/5.0 • 1070 reviews
📍 Address
199 8th Ave
New York, New Jersey 10011
📞 Phone
🌐 Website
💰 Price Range
$30–50 per person
🍽️ Category
Casual Dining

⏰ Opening Hours

Monday11:30 am–10 pm
Tuesday11:30 am–10 pm
Wednesday11:30 am–10 pm
Thursday11:30 am–10 pm
Friday11:30 am–10:30 pm
Saturday11:30 am–10:30 pm
Sunday11:30 am–10 pm

ℹ️ About This Restaurant

Nestled in the heart of New York, Willow Vegan Bistro and Cocktail Bar offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that immediately sets the tone for a delightful dining experience. The space is adorned with natural wood accents, vibrant greenery, and soft lighting, creating a cozy and modern ambiance that seamlessly blends the rustic charm of a bistro with the sophistication of a cocktail bar. As you step through the door, you're greeted by the aroma of freshly prepared plant-based dishes and the gentle hum of conversations, setting the stage for an unforgettable culinary journey.

Willow's menu is a true testament to the culinary prowess of its team, boasting an impressive array of innovative vegan offerings that cater to a wide range of palates. From the mouthwatering "Willow Burger" made with a house-crafted patty, to the creamy "Mushroom Stroganoff" over perfectly cooked noodles, each dish showcases the versatility and creativity of the kitchen. The menu also features an impressive selection of small plates, salads, and entrees, ensuring that there's something to delight every diner. Signature items like the "Jackfruit Tacos" and the "Coconut Curry Bowl" have become customer favorites, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to delivering flavorful and satisfying plant-based cuisine.

The service at Willow Vegan Bistro and Cocktail Bar is consistently attentive and knowledgeable, with staff members who are well-versed in the menu and eager to provide recommendations. The cocktail program is equally impressive, offering a curated selection of innovative vegan-friendly libations that pair beautifully with the food. Overall, the combination of exceptional cuisine, warm hospitality, and a lively atmosphere make Willow a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a truly memorable vegan dining experience in the heart of New York.

🏮 Atmosphere & Ambiance

Stepping into Willow Vegan Bistro and Cocktail Bar is like entering a serene oasis amidst the bustling city streets of New York. The restaurant's decor is a harmonious blend of natural elements and modern sophistication, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Soft lighting filters through the large, loft-style windows, casting a gentle glow on the rustic-chic wooden furnishings and lush greenery that adorns the space. The walls are adorned with vibrant, plant-inspired artwork, adding a touch of whimsy and a celebration of the restaurant's commitment to plant-based cuisine.

The seating arrangements at Willow Vegan Bistro and Cocktail Bar are designed to foster a sense of comfort and connection. Cozy banquettes line the walls, providing intimate dining nooks, while larger tables and communal seating options encourage a lively, social atmosphere. The expansive bar area, with its gleaming copper accents and artisanal cocktail menu, invites guests to unwind and savor the carefully crafted plant-based creations that are the hallmark of this vegan sanctuary.

🌿 Dietary Accommodations

  • Gluten-Free Options - A selection of gluten-free appetizers, entrees, and desserts prepared with care to avoid cross-contamination.
  • Raw Food Choices - Fresh, uncooked salads, vegetable dishes, and plant-based snacks that showcase the natural flavors of produce.
  • Nut-Free Alternatives - Nut-free sauces, dressings, and toppings to accommodate guests with tree nut allergies.
  • Keto-Friendly Items - Low-carb, high-fat vegan dishes such as cauliflower steaks, zucchini noodles, and avocado-based dips and spreads.

⏰ Best Times to Visit

  • Weekday lunch - This is a great time to enjoy a relaxed vegan meal with coworkers or solo, as the restaurant offers a peaceful atmosphere and quick service during the midday rush.
  • Weekend brunch - Indulge in a plant-based brunch experience at Willow Vegan Bistro, where you can savor delectable vegan takes on classic brunch dishes and sip on refreshing cocktails in a lively, social setting.
  • Friday dinner - Kick off the weekend with a visit to Willow Vegan Bistro, where you can unwind with a selection of creative vegan entrees and cocktails in a cozy, upbeat ambiance.

⭐ What Makes Us Special

  • Signature Cocktail Menu: Willow Vegan Bistro offers an extensive cocktail menu featuring creative vegan-friendly libations, from botanical-infused gin and tonics to craft mocktails made with fresh juices and house-made syrups.
  • Innovative Plant-Based Cuisine: The restaurant's menu showcases a wide range of globally-inspired vegan dishes, from hearty plant-based burgers and creamy cashew-based mac and cheese to delicate vegetable-forward entrees and seasonal specials.
  • Sustainable and Ethical Sourcing: Willow sources its ingredients from local and organic farms, ensuring the freshest and most ethically-produced plant-based products are used in its dishes and cocktails.
Willow Vegan Bistro and Cocktail Bar is helmed by Chef Alex Samson, a classically trained chef with a passion for crafting innovative and flavorful plant-based cuisine. The restaurant has been recognized with several awards, including a Michelin Plate distinction and a nomination for "Best Vegan Restaurant" in the city. Willow's commitment to sustainable and ethical sourcing, as well as its unique cocktail menu and diverse, globally-inspired menu, have made it a standout destination for vegan diners in the New York/New Jersey area.

📍 Local Area & Neighborhood

Nestled in the heart of New York City's vibrant downtown district, Willow Vegan Bistro and Cocktail Bar is a gem that stands out in the bustling neighborhood. The restaurant is situated in a charming, tree-lined street, surrounded by a diverse array of independent boutiques, art galleries, and trendy cafes, creating a lively and cosmopolitan atmosphere. The nearby Washington Square Park is a popular gathering spot, where locals and visitors alike enjoy outdoor concerts, street performances, and the iconic arch that serves as a backdrop for countless photographs.

Willow Vegan Bistro and Cocktail Bar attracts a diverse clientele, from health-conscious millennials to eco-conscious professionals and families seeking a plant-based dining experience. The restaurant's prime location, just a few blocks from the iconic High Line park and the trendy Meatpacking District, adds to its allure, drawing in both neighborhood regulars and visitors seeking a unique culinary adventure in the heart of the city.

💬 Customer Reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Amazing restaurant with a full vegan menu! Great for a date or brunch outing! Weekend brunch also had their full menu, w..."

— Customer #1
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Thank you so much, G G, for your thoughtful and enthusiastic review! We're thrilled to hear you had such a positive expe..."

— Customer #2
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"5 stars for it just being a vegan restaurant. But overall I would rate a solid 4.5. I don't like too much the idea of ..."

— Customer #3
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Thank you so much, Lena, for your thoughtful review! We’re glad you enjoyed your visit to Willow Vegan Bistro. As a prou..."

— Customer #4
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"Last week I went to Sentir (one of their other restaurants) and was amazed, this week Willow definitely left me speechle..."

— Customer #5