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Dairy-free crab cakes

Made for those who navigate menus with strict dairy-free requirements but still expect a decadent crab cake experience.

Based on 616 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
VULTURE image 1
VULTURE image 2
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Restaurant

Speakeasy-style restaurant with unique, otherworldly decor and a red curtain entrance creates an intimate, elegant atmosphere. The vibe blends 80's music with a warm, inviting energy that suits a night out. Fully vegan menu offers plant-based fine dining with standout cocktails and memorable dishes.

Crab cakes feature a hearts of palm base that mimics the classic texture and flavor without actual crab. They come out very flavorful and maintain a classic crab cake texture.

Everything on the menu is fully vegan with superb versions of classic steakhouse meals. The food and drinks are consistently amazing and prove vegan options can be just plain good without qualifiers.

People are saying

"I can't wait to return for the amazing vegan options."

"The desserts, like tableside Bananas Foster, are a showstopper."

"The crab cakes were delicious and truly outstanding."

Good to know

1

A reservation is needed to dine at VULTURE.

2

VULTURE adds an automatic 20% gratuity on all checks.

3

Many items on the menu were unavailable during my visit.

02
Vinyl Steakhouse image 1

Restaurant combines loud live vinyl music with a retro woodsy decor and an impressive vinyl record collection that diners can select from. Atmosphere feels welcoming and lively, with music often overpowering conversation. Bar offers unique cocktails and a comfortable setting, complementing the standout steakhouse experience.

Crab cakes come with plenty of sauce and serve well as an appetizer. They pair nicely with dishes like dry aged Porterhouse and New York strip.

The vegan ribeye stands out with its meaty taste and enjoyable texture. It comes with bernaise sauce on the side and pairs well with broccolini.

People are saying

"The steak here is fantastic and the staff are super attentive."

"The dairy-free steak's texture was surprisingly similar to beef chuck."

"Crystal's service was exceptional, she even brought extra carrot cake."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for special occasions.

2

Expect high NYC prices; bring credit cards for payment.

3

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible for all guests.

03
Beyond Vegan Eats image 1
Vegan restaurant

Small vegan restaurant offers cozy indoor seating and outdoor tables with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. It serves ready-to-go meals popular for quick dining or takeout. The space feels organized and clean, attracting both vegans and non-vegans alike.

Jackfruit crab cakes have an amazing texture and crispy outside with rich flavor. They come with seasoned greens and wild rice that complement the dish well.

Offers a true vegan menu with alkaline meals free of soy and refined sugars. The food delivers a symphony of flavors that challenge typical vegan comfort food expectations.

People are saying

"I found the vegetarian food here to be delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"This dairy-free food is amazing and perfectly seasoned."

"I found the jackfruit Crab Cakes to be scrumptious and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

The 10 meal plan costs $150 and helps with healthy eating.

2

A single empanada costs $14.

3

I paid $26 for a soup and a drink.

04
P.S. Kitchen image 1
Vegan restaurant

Vegan restaurant offers modern decor with cozy atmosphere and outdoor seating on a small terrace. The space includes a full bar serving crafted cocktails with balanced flavors. Warm, clean environment attracts diners seeking a trendy yet comfortable dining experience.

Imitation crab cakes come crispy and flavorful but get overwhelmed by the sour tartar sauce.

Vegan scrambled egg made from tofu stands out as a superb dairy free option. The menu offers high quality vegan food that ranks among the best vegan choices near Times Square.

People are saying

"The vegetarian food here is surprisingly delicious and satisfying."

"The dairy-free options here are so welcoming and friendly."

"These crab cakes are delicious with a nice lemony zing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner during show nights.

2

The weekend brunch is popular and can get busy.

3

Every purchase at P.S. Kitchen supports social causes.

05
Peacefood image 1
Vegan restaurant

Spacious vegan restaurant with gorgeous decor and collectible art on the walls creates an elegant but casual atmosphere. Warm lighting and jazz covers set a relaxing, peaceful vibe. Staff contribute to a friendly, inviting environment that feels both serene and airy.

Vegan crab cakes come with a fresh salad and deliver a delicious taste. They stand out alongside other dishes like dumplings and Pom Pom mushroom curry.

Offers a variety of vegan dishes with strong flavors, including vegan burgers with curry sauce and a mixed salad with walnuts and nutritional yeast. Desserts like vegan cheesecakes made with lime, avocado, and coconut taste rich and satisfying.

People are saying

"You have to try their delicious, flavorful, and comforting dairy-free desserts."

"The vegetarian food here is so delicious and flavorful."

"I tried the vegan crab cakes and they were delicious."

Good to know

1

Peacefood is BYOB, but drinks must be kosher.

2

Reservations are recommended as walk-in availability is limited.

3

The restaurant is kosher, catering to dietary restrictions.

06
Delice & Sarrasin image 1
Vegan restaurant

Vegan French cuisine fills a small, elegant space with a cozy yet refined atmosphere. Soft jazz music and a quiet vibe create a setting suited for romantic dinners or special occasions. A charming outdoor patio welcomes dogs, adding a relaxed contrast to the intimate interior.

Crab cakes come with savory tartar sauce and pair well with Brussels sprouts that have a delicious seasoning. They serve alongside chips with black truffle for added flavor.

French vegan cuisine shines with rich garlic and herb-infused butter sauce and dishes like vegan escargots that capture traditional flavors. The menu stays fully vegan while delivering authentic French tastes.

People are saying

"The French vegan food here is truly exceptional and authentic."

"The dairy-free French food here is truly exceptional and flavorful."

"The crab cakes with Brussels sprouts were delicious and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's small size.

2

The dining area fills to capacity during Monday night dinner.

3

D&S is hosting a 3-course dinner fund-raiser for Safe Haven Farm Sanctuary on Oct 16.

07
Saigon Shack image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Small space fills quickly with an energetic, cozy vibe and bustling atmosphere. Covered outdoor seating offers relief from limited indoor room. Cash-only policy and authentic Vietnamese flavors define the experience.

Beautifully prepared crab cakes stand out as a highlight. They pair well with spring rolls and deliver a consistently excellent taste.

Vegetarian and vegan options include a vegan pho broth and a vegan banh mi that stands out. Overall, vegan choices are limited but flavorful.

People are saying

"I considered the beef pho the best I have ever had."

"I thought the crab cakes were beautifully prepared and great."

"I found the dairy-free banh mi to be the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

This restaurant is cash only; bring cash before visiting.

2

They don't take reservations, so you'll need to wait in line.

3

You need to walk up and wait to be seated at this restaurant.

08
The Blue Dog Cookhouse & Bar image 1
American restaurant

Small, intimate space with a community table and classic black-and-white movies playing on a projector. Atmosphere feels romantic and elegant yet chill, with a lively but cozy energy. Cocktails stand out as a distinctive feature, complementing the overall experience.

Lightly breaded and super fresh, the crab cakes deliver solid flavor. The crab cake sliders stand out, though the deep-fried style might need rethinking. The crab cake Benedict uses fresh ingredients and is a popular choice.

Elevated comfort food includes vegan burgers with a substantial, toasted bun topped with red pepper relish flakes and shiitake bacon. The menu offers a variety of hearty, healthy options for vegetarians and vegans.

People are saying

"The crab cake eggs Benedict is the best brunch I've ever had."

"The dairy-free burger patty was huge and delicious."

"You have to try the crab cake eggs benedict."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a table, especially on weekends.

2

Brunch is available until 3 p.m. every day.

3

Expect a two-hour dining limit during peak hours.

09
Tavern On the Green image 1
American restaurant

Restaurant sits within a park setting with glass walls and an outdoor patio featuring live jazz music. Atmosphere blends historic charm with intimate, beautifully decorated spaces. Bar area includes a rotating carousel above, creating a unique focal point.

Jumbo lump crab cakes come very fresh and delicious. Crab cake sliders and appetizers show amazing flavor and consistent quality.

Vegan and gluten-free options are available and well accommodated. Staff handles all diets with care, offering delicious vegan dishes and even all-vegan menus with drinks like wine.

People are saying

"The food here is really good and fresh."

"They accommodated all diets, including dairy free options."

"I was extremely impressed with the amazing crab cakes."

Good to know

1

A reservation is necessary to eat, ideally made about a month in advance.

2

If you stay for 5 hours, the $30 parking voucher becomes invalid.

3

Brunch on the patio is popular, especially on weekends with live music.

10
ROBERT image 1
American restaurant

Views over Central Park and Columbus Circle dominate the space, creating a majestic atmosphere with a post-modern eclectic style. Live piano and jazz music add a posh ambiance, while the setting feels intimate and colorful. The restaurant blends art and dining, offering a unique experience above a museum.

Jumbo lump crab cake stands out with its freshness and good flavor. Other crab cake versions come off as just OK.

Staff clearly explain dairy-free options and guide through the menu. The vegan zoodle dish and mushroom soup amuse-bouche stand out as good choices.

People are saying

"The food here was truly amazing."

"You have to get the jumbo lump crab cake; it's very good."

"The staff here is so helpful with Dairy Free options."

Good to know

1

Reservations are necessary to secure a window table, especially for busy times.

2

The restaurant offers a special menu on Father's Day with gifts for dads.

3

Live jazz is featured during Sunday brunches, enhancing the dining experience.

11
Melba's Restaurant image 1
Southern restaurant (US)

Lively space blends live music with a street party vibe and authentic Harlem energy. Crowded seating and narrow entrance contrast with family-like warmth and vibrant atmosphere. Walls showcase notable art, enhancing the unique dining experience.

Chunks of real crab meat fill the crab cakes, offering a crispy texture and rich flavor. They serve well as an appetizer and pair nicely with other seafood dishes like calamari and catfish.

Vegetarian and vegan options include a vegan mushroom pot pie made with cream mushrooms over a biscuit. Other dishes served alongside are sautรฉed spinach and peas with rice.

People are saying

"You've got to try the American Food, especially the mac and cheese."

"Kenny's genuine care made the fried chicken experience feel special."

"I thought the Dairy Free food here was delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are necessary on weekends to ensure seating.

2

Every Sunday, Melba's has live music outside.

3

On Sundays during the summer, there is a block party from 4pm to 8pm.

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