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Vegetarian sandwiches in the LES

Made for those who require a vegetarian menu but refuse to accept a lunch that isn't anchored by a substantial, well-constructed sandwich.

Based on 690 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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Vegan restaurant

Small deli offers wide variety of vegan products including hard-to-find vegan cheeses and freshly made vegan deli sandwiches. Space includes limited indoor and outdoor seating with a cozy, peaceful atmosphere. Energy feels calm, attracting those seeking a vegan Eastern European experience.

Offers a wide selection of vegan sandwiches, plant-based groceries, and vegan soft serve. The store carries many vegan cheeses, snacks, prepared foods, and pastries all 100% vegan.

Vegan breakfast sandwiches stand out with rich flavor and filling portions. Pastrami and Reuben sandwiches offer distinctive taste alongside a variety of organic options.

People are saying

"These vegan sandwiches are so tasty and flavorful."

"I found so many different vegan chocolates and treats here."

"The vegan soft serve here is the best I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

The store has a large selection of vegan foods, sauces, and frozen goods.

2

They make their own deli meats, which makes a huge difference.

3

There are only 2-3 indoor seats available.

02
Zaad - Broome St image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Small, clean space with freshly sourced ingredients and authentic Middle Eastern and Egyptian halal food. Atmosphere feels like a local neighborhood spot with affordable prices and amazing vegan options. Known for best falafel and tasty chicken rice in the area.

Vegan options include a falafel cauliflower sandwich and a falafel pita sandwich with hummus. These dishes offer incredible flavor and cater well to dietary preferences, including gluten-free choices.

Chicken shawarma and falafel sandwiches stand out with rich tahini and fresh pita. Options include vegan falafel pita and cauliflower with foul madamas, all served with generous toppings like onions and cabbage.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here, especially the shawarma, is delicious with spicy meat and great sauces."

"The vegetarian options here are amazing, especially the falafel."

"I had the best falafel sandwich, it was delicious and affordable."

Good to know

1

Zaad offers a variety of ingredients in the bowl, loading it up compared to some kebab places.

2

The prices are very affordable.

3

Zaad provides discounts to teachers that work in the neighborhood.

03
Rebel Cheese Essex Market image 1

Cheese shop offers a funky and unique atmosphere with a warm, thoughtful selection of vegan cheeses and charcuterie. Staff energy supports a clear mission, creating an inviting vibe. Presentation shows careful attention to detail, making it stand out among vegan cheese spots.

Offers a large selection of vegan cheeses and meats not found elsewhere. Features plant-based cheeses that taste like traditional cheese, with a variety that stands out globally.

Sandwiches feature toasted focaccia with unique fillings like tomato-pepperoni style and smoked cheddar. Portions come huge and satisfying, though service can be slow even when not busy.

People are saying

"I found the vegan cheese here to be unique and delicious."

"The vegan charcuterie here is phenomenal and uniquely delicious."

"I loved the focaccia sandwich with smoked cheddar."

Good to know

1

Rebel Cheese Essex Market offers a wide variety of vegan cheeses and meats.

2

They allow sampling of their vegan cheese selections.

3

The shop carries unique plant-based condiments and snacks.

04
Comfortland image 1
American restaurant

Space feels like a tricked-out basement with cozy, cool vibes and full of character. Seating is limited to a small table and bar rows, creating an intimate setting. Walls display a sick toy collection, adding a nostalgic touch while hot sauces line the menu options.

Great vegan options include a Midnight Mass burger and a wrap with vegan chicken. Sometimes the wrap is served with real chicken instead of vegan.

Chicken sandwiches feature bread, pickles, and sauce more than meat. The Freak Friday sandwich stands out. Prices run high, with combos around $14.

People are saying

"The food here is phenomenal, seriously good and worth the price."

"Their creative sandwiches, like the Voodoo Tiger, are seriously good."

"The vegetarian food here is amazing."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines during peak hours as Comfortland is a new spot.

2

Portion sizes are large, making it a good value for the price.

3

The menu features a variety of comfort food options.

05
Gotham Burger Social Club image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small hamburger restaurant with cool counter seating that lets diners watch burgers being cooked. Atmosphere is friendly and lively with good music and occasional free shots. Offers excellent craft beer and highly praised smash burgers.

Smash burgers come with a black bean vegan alternative that stays flavorful and filling. Both classic and vegan cheeseburgers offer solid vegetarian options with a cool vibe.

Double Smashburger and Dixie Chick Sandwich stand out for their quality and taste. Sandwiches come beautifully smashed and pair well with chips for a satisfying meal.

People are saying

"I found the smash burger here to be the best I've had."

"I found the vegetarian burger delicious and it really scratched my itch."

"I ate the best sandwich I've ever had in New York."

Good to know

1

Customers order at the counter and are texted when their order is ready.

2

Expect a 15-20 minute wait time during peak hours.

3

Street parking is the only available option.

06
Zerza Mediterrano image 1
Moroccan restaurant

Kiosk-style setup with general seating creates a casual dining atmosphere. The space offers authentic Moroccan cuisine with freshly made falafel and well-seasoned dishes like chicken couscous and merguez sandwich. It draws a steady crowd seeking halal, clean food without long waits.

Falafel stands out as a large, freshly made, and flavorful option thanks to fresh spices. Vegetarian choices exist but lack menu flexibility without ordering multiple items.

Beef stew sandwich stands out for its consistent quality and flavor. Chicken sandwich on fresh pita and the Merguez sandwich offer well-seasoned, satisfying options.

People are saying

"This beef stew sandwich is perfect every time."

"I loved their falafel sandwich; it was delicious and well seasoned."

"Their vegetarian falafel is baked, flavorful, and made with fresh spices."

Good to know

1

Zerza Mediterrano is a kiosk with general seating and takeout options.

2

Expect no wait times as the kiosk usually has no line.

3

The menu has limited vegetarian options, requiring multiple orders for variety.

07
Dirt Candy image 1
Vegetarian restaurant

Open kitchen reveals chefs crafting inventive vegetarian dishes in a cozy, dim setting with sticky tables and dated decor. Atmosphere balances creative energy with a welcoming vibe, featuring thoughtful touches like surprise gifts between courses. Wine pairings highlight women-owned wineries, adding a unique element to the dining experience.

Offers next level vegan and vegetarian fare that challenges typical expectations. Sets a gold standard for vegetarian experiences with innovative and flavorful dishes.

Creative sandwiches stand out here, especially the fennel chopped cheese sandwich and the tiny cheese sandwich with kim chi ketchup. Both offer unique flavors and fun twists on classic ideas.

People are saying

"I had one of the best vegetarian meals I've ever experienced."

"The wine pairings here are excellent and elevate the food."

"The onion ice cream sandwich had a fantastic part that was like a savory dessert."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to dine at this restaurant.

2

The tasting menu costs $105 per person.

3

Wine pairing is an additional $50 on top of the meal cost.

08
Rex image 1
Cafe

Cozy café with soft lighting and comfortable seating creates a relaxed vibe ideal for work or unwinding. Walls display cool old photographs, adding character to the space. Pet friendly atmosphere complements a welcoming, casual energy.

Menu includes a large vegetarian section with vegan pastry options and hot food from the kitchen. Some items like avocado toast with feta cheese need clearer labeling for vegans.

Lamb and fried chicken sandwiches stand out with crispy, flavorful textures. Fresh, crispy bread adds great texture, and the egg sandwich on brioche pressed in a panini press offers a solid choice.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be truly amazing and delicious."

"The lamb sandwich here is fantastic and tender."

"The staff here is so kind and friendly."

Good to know

1

Rex offers an incredible happy hour deal with a mimosa after work for $7.

2

Rex stayed open until 12:30, perfect for late night studying.

3

Rex offers all-day happy hour.

09
Sweet Chick image 1
Chicken restaurant

Fried chicken and waffles stand out as culinary masterpieces with classic Southern charm. Loud, hip hop music fills the space, creating a high-energy vibe that makes conversation challenging. Seating mixes indoor and outdoor options with unique decor and a casual, lively atmosphere.

Offers vegetarian chicken and waffles with options to prepare everything using vegan chicken. The apple cinnamon chicken and waffle stands out as a filling choice for vegetarians.

Chicken sandwiches stand out with Nashville hot spice and a classic O.G. style that pairs well with fries. The Nashville hot fish sandwich offers a flavorful alternative, even for those who don't usually like fish.

People are saying

"I found the chicken and waffles here to be truly delicious."

"You have to try the vegetarian chicken and waffles; it's a crazy experience."

"I thought the fried chicken sandwich was the best I'd ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to avoid long wait times.

2

The restaurant offers a free chicken and waffles event on October 20th starting after 4 PM.

3

Payment via phone is available for quick departure after dining.

10
Essex Market image 1
Produce market

Spanning over three floors with a vibrant upstairs and a quieter lower level, the market offers a beautiful space filled with diverse food stalls and seating areas. The atmosphere blends authentic NYC energy with a lively bar scene and quality sound, creating a dynamic place to eat and explore.

Vegan cheese selection stands out with award-winning flavors that rival dairy cheeses. Multi-ethnic cuisines offer vegetarian and vegan options, including Puerto Rican dishes and vegan pizza.

Freshly prepared dishes include gourmet sandwiches and authentic ethnic options. Sandwiches come with impressive quality and pair well with other fresh items like fruit and pastries.

People are saying

"This market has so many delicious food options to explore."

"You can find excellent sandwiches among the diverse food vendors here."

"The vegetarian cheese options here are amazing and so flavorful."

Good to know

1

Restaurants close at 7 PM on Saturday night.

2

The market gets crowded during the lunchtime rush.

3

Management frequently closes the seating area for events, disrupting diners.

11
Kotti Berliner Döner Kebab image 1

Kebab shop offers authentic Berlin-style döner with generous portions and fresh toppings included in wraps, tacos, or bowls. Atmosphere is casual with seating upstairs and downstairs for resting or quick meals. Prices are on the higher side, reflecting the quality and preparation time.

Wrap kebabs include roasted tofu and offer a vegan white sauce alternative. Vegan and vegetarian options exist but sometimes orders are mixed up, like receiving chicken instead of the vegan choice.

Sandwiches come in large, taco-sized portions with lots of toppings. Meat tends to be bulky and wet, not like traditional doner. Prices vary, sometimes higher than expected for the size.

People are saying

"I found the döner kebab to be authentic and delicious."

"The salad here is packed with flavor and really tasty."

"I found the doner kebab amazing and authentic."

Good to know

1

All toppings are included in any choice between taco, wrap, or bowl.

2

The price is $16 per wrap and $6 for a taco.

3

Seating is available both downstairs and upstairs.

12
Pause Cafe image 1

Moroccan-inspired decor fills indoor and outdoor spaces with cozy cushions and plenty of outlets. Loud music sets a vibey atmosphere where people mostly study or work. Covered outdoor seating and high-speed WiFi support long visits.

Offers a wide range of delicious vegan options including a standout vegan carrot cake. Plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free choices make it easy to find healthy meals.

Sandwiches stand out with fresh ingredients and a Moroccan style twist. The Pause Egg Sandwich and breakfast options offer tasty, satisfying flavors.

People are saying

"I thought the breakfast here was spectacular and worth the price."

"I thought the sandwiches here were super tasty and delicious."

"I found tons of delicious vegetarian options here."

Good to know

1

The cafe has a no laptops allowed policy.

2

You order at the counter and then sit down.

3

The restaurant opens at 7am and closes at 8pm.

13
Russ & Daughters image 1

Narrow, small shop with no indoor seating and often crowded atmosphere. The vibe is old school, evoking a sense of history and tradition with a calm, unhurried pace despite the crowd. Outdoor benches offer brief respite while enjoying classic bagel and lox combinations.

Offers vegan cream cheese and vegan cheese options alongside gluten-free bagels. Provides enough choices for vegetarian bagel and cream cheese combinations.

Bagel sandwiches feature high-quality smoked salmon and a variety of salmon options. The classic lox and goat cream cheese sandwich stands out for its well-crafted, delicious flavor and iconic experience.

People are saying

"I thought the salmon bagel was the best I ever had."

"The salmon sandwich was so fresh and flavorful."

"I found the bagel spectacular and worth the price."

Good to know

1

You must take a number when you first enter to be served.

2

There is no dine-in option; it's takeout only.

3

Expect long wait times, often over an hour, especially after 10am.

14
Ginger and Lemongrass image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Small space with paper lanterns and decorative vines creates a warm, cozy atmosphere. Seating includes both indoor and outdoor options, with a large front window that opens to the street. Energy is quiet and inviting, suited for dates or casual outings.

Vegan pho stands out with its rich and flavorful broth, topped with a poached egg, chili oil, and two limes. Mushroom and other vegan options add variety for vegetarians.

Lemongrass tofu sandwich stands out with strong flavor and large portions. The salmon roll and chicken sandwich offer good taste, with the chicken sandwich carrying a mild spice even when ordered mild.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here, especially the pho, is so flavorful and comforting."

"I found their vegan pho surprisingly rich and flavorful."

"I loved the lemongrass tofu sandwich; I wanted another."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour is from 5:30 PM on Tuesdays with discounts on drinks and appetizers.

2

The kitchen closes before 10 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Reservations are recommended during peak days and holidays to secure a table.

15
Katz's Delicatessen image 1

Rustic deli with tight seating and a nostalgic 70s decor creates a crowded, lively atmosphere. Meat carvers serve as a focal point, offering tastings that engage diners. Walls display celebrity portraits, adding to the historic vibe.

Options focus mainly on meat, with very few choices for vegans. Cheese sandwiches and grilled cheese serve as the main vegetarian offerings.

Pastrami sandwich stands out as a defining feature, setting a high standard for flavor and quality. Corned beef and roast beef sandwiches also feature prominently, making it a go-to spot for classic deli sandwiches.

People are saying

"The pastrami sandwich here is piled high and melt-in-your-mouth tender."

"You have to try the pastrami sandwich at least once."

"It's a salami deli, so vegetarian options are very few."

Good to know

1

The wait for the Katz Pastrami Sandwich can be an hour long.

2

You can only pay with cash at the front of the restaurant.

3

Do not lose your tickets even if you haven't used them to order anything.

16
Patacon Pisao image 1
Latin American restaurant

Small space with three bistro tables and some outdoor seating creates an intimate setting. Cozy vibe with lively music brings a taste of Venezuelan and Colombian street food culture. Open windows can make seating cool, but the atmosphere stays clean and inviting.

Many vegetarian options are available, including a Vegetarian Plantain Burger with a good mix of flavors and textures. Patacon Pisao offers a variety of choices for vegetarian eaters.

Sandwiches use plantain instead of bread, offering a unique texture and flavor. Options include green or sweet plantains, with sweet ones being softer. Ordering involves an extra fee at a kiosk.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the crispy patacon with maduros and avocado."

"I found the arepas here incredibly good and satisfying."

"This sandwich uses plantain instead of bread, holding everything perfectly."

Good to know

1

During the holidays, they have hallacas available.

2

The restaurant does not accept cash and requires orders to be placed by phone.

3

You can dine in or take it to go.

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Lower East Side, New York

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