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Top picks in Union Square

Vegetarian date spots

A vegetarian meal that feels like a thoughtful date choice, rather than a compromise for one person at the table.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Le Basque French Vegan Restaurant image 1
Le Basque French Vegan Restaurant image 2
Le Basque French Vegan Restaurant image 3
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Elegant dining space features an open glass ceiling and detailed decor, creating a calm and romantic atmosphere. Cocktails stand out with unique flavors and presentations, complementing a fully vegan menu. Seating can feel cramped, but the overall vibe suits intimate moments and special occasions.

Offers a flawless vegan meal from start to finish with dishes that even non-vegans find satisfying. The vegan brioche stands out as better than many traditional bakeries' versions.

Romantic atmosphere suits date night and special occasions. Works well for first dates, anniversaries, or casual drinks.

People are saying

"The vegetarian food here is outstanding and incredibly flavorful."

"The desserts here are rich, citrusy, and a perfect sweet finish."

"The food here is amazing and beautifully presented for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Reservations are suggested for the upper level to ensure a comfortable experience.

2

The restaurant offers a unique vegan menu inspired by the Basque region.

3

Casual wear is acceptable, making it a relaxed dining option.

02
Venchi image 1
Ice cream shop

Space shaped like a tapering triangle features chocolate pouring walls and a chocolate fountain at the back. Atmosphere feels like a warm, welcoming Wonka fantasy with free chocolate samples and soothing music. Seating areas include an intimate corner with a waterfall and outdoor spots for relaxed enjoyment.

Offers a wide variety of vegan options including plant-based chocolate and vegan ice cream. Vegan flavors like dark chocolate gianduiotti, cremino fondente, and mango gelato are smooth and popular.

Offers a balance of affordable luxury that suits romantic dates and casual meetups. Features Gelato Signature ideal for sweet moments like mom and daughter outings or spoiling yourself with coffee.

People are saying

"The gelato here is so creamy and delicious."

"I loved their refreshing, smooth, and silky vegan mango gelato."

"The staff here are so nice, making it a great spot for dates."

Good to know

1

There is no parking in this area.

2

The prices are crazy expensive.

3

Customers must decide on the size and pay before trying the flavors.

03
La Dong image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese restaurant showcases charming contemporary design with rattan lotus-shaped light fixtures and tranquil, authentic decor. Atmosphere feels classy and friendly with good acoustics and a welcoming vibe. Patrons enjoy exceptional pho and grilled turmeric branzino, complemented by a unique selection of Vietnamese gin and crafted cocktails.

Food features fresh, vegan, and gluten-friendly options. Vegan pho and banh mi stand out as delicious dishes. Vegetarian pho is available but less favored compared to seafood pho.

Visually appealing decor and dimmer lighting create a cozy, intimate atmosphere. It works well for dates and celebrations.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing."

"The Date Spots here are so flavorful and comforting."

"The vegetarian pho here is heavenly and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Make sure to make a reservation before visiting.

2

La Dong charges almost $30 for its bรบn bรฒ Huแบฟ.

3

The restaurant could accommodate a big party of 20 people.

04
Narkara image 1
Thai restaurant

Restaurant offers stylish, modern design with authentic Thai art and a warm, elegant atmosphere that blends fine dining with cozy charm. Guests find a vibrant yet inviting vibe suitable for various occasions, featuring unique Northern and Isaan Thai flavors rarely found elsewhere.

Menu offers a solid mix of seafood and plant-based dishes. Vegan options like the Vegan Corn Salad bring a refreshing, vibrant taste with a bit of heat. Vegan Mushroom dish delivers a deep, savory flavor without mimicking meat.

An elegant yet warm atmosphere sets the tone for a date night or dinner with friends. The setting supports great food and conversation alongside carefully crafted cocktails.

People are saying

"The food, especially the Roasted Seabass in Banana Leaf, is amazing."

"The roasted seabass in banana leaf is tender and flavorful."

"The vegetarian dishes are deep, savory, and satisfying."

Good to know

1

The menu features unique Northern and Northeastern Thai dishes not commonly found in NYC.

2

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

3

Prices are higher than average for Thai cuisine, reflecting the quality of ingredients.

05
Laut image 1
Malaysian restaurant

Small space with old school Malaysian home decor creates a cozy and warm atmosphere filled with friendly chatter. Outdoor seating features heat lamps and offers a chill vibe despite close tables inside. Cocktails come with unique presentations, complementing flavorful, phenomenal Malaysian dishes.

Separate kitchen handles all vegetarian cooking to avoid cross-contamination. Malaysian Laksa noodles come in a well-executed vegetarian version. Plenty of vegetarian and vegan options suit different tastes.

Loud atmosphere requires shouting to communicate, which can affect conversation. Offers Masak Asam Pedas and other dishes that add to the experience. Works well for group hangouts and some date nights.

People are saying

"The duck curry and soft shell crab curry were rich and flavorful."

"I loved the authentic Malaysian flavors and rich, aromatic broth."

"The food here is so flavorful and well-seasoned, perfect for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as people without them were leaving due to a long wait.

2

There is a 90 minute cap on the table due to high bookings.

3

The restaurant charges a $20 cancellation fee for each person if you cancel a reservation.

06
Tompkins Square Bagels | Union Square Bagel Shop image 1

Small bagel shop with crowded layout and fast-moving lines creates a lively, controlled chaos atmosphere. Eclectic decor and a hip vibe blend with a clean, professional environment. Standing tables and limited seating encourage quick visits amid a busy, welcoming crowd.

Many vegan cream cheese flavors are available, including tofu-based spreads with garlic and herbal options. The Beyond vegan sandwich and homemade vegan spreads add variety for vegetarians and vegans.

Triple crown with egg, cheese, bacon, Canadian bacon, and maple glaze offers a filling meal. Bagels with salmon fish provide a tasty option. The food sparks positive conversations throughout the day.

People are saying

"I thought these bagels were some of the best I ever had."

"The vegan cream cheese here is so good, you can't tell the difference."

"These date spots have the freshest, chewiest bagels."

Good to know

1

The wait time for a bagel is typically 30-45 minutes on sunny Sundays.

2

There is no seating available at the bagel shop.

3

It is better to order to-go at this bagel shop.

07
Pasta Eater image 1
Italian restaurant

Fresh pasta preparation happens in full view, creating an engaging start to the meal. Lively atmosphere fills the spacious basement setting, with live 80s music supporting loud, joyful conversations. Seating arrangements are close, encouraging a bustling, communal vibe.

Pasta-focused menu offers spinach-stuffed ravioli and several vegetarian dishes with varied flavors. Cheesecake is available as a vegetarian dessert option.

Cozy and casual atmosphere suits date nights or small groups. The spot offers quality food in a cute setting ideal for relaxing or impressing a date.

People are saying

"The pasta here is fresh and tastes just like Italy."

"The pasta here is delicious, made with fresh ingredients."

"You have to try the spinach-stuffed ravioli; it's delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must at Pasta Eater due to the cramped space and increasing popularity.

2

Expect to wait 30 minutes after your reservation time to be seated.

3

The prices on the website are about $10 lower than the price in store.

08
Kanyakumari image 1
South Indian restaurant

South Indian restaurant offers a cramped space with a mix of traditional decor and modern touches. Loud music fills the air, creating a vibrant but noisy atmosphere. Unique features include brassware highlights and an extensive dessert platter served on a seashell.

Vegetarian options include Andhra Pradesh fried idli served in a flavorful sauce, along with vada pao and bonda as standout appetizers.

Offers a nice atmosphere suited for date nights and special occasions like birthdays. Visits confirm it works well for intimate celebrations.

People are saying

"The food here is super flavorful and tastes so fresh."

"The vegetarian food here is delicious and top-notch."

"You have to try the goat biryani; it's amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours.

2

Brunch specials are popular and well-liked by customers.

3

Special dessert shows are available for birthdays upon request.

09
Sweet Chick image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant combines fast-food setup with fancy dining utensils and offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Loud hip hop music creates a vibey atmosphere that requires raising voices to converse. Busy and crowded, it serves a mix of individuals, friends, and families in a clean, well-kept space.

Vegetarian chick'n tenders stand out among the vegetarian and fish options available. No vegan choices appear on the menu.

Great spot for a date with crispy fried chicken that stands out. Offers takeout options for a relaxed night in.

People are saying

"The chicken and waffles here are so juicy and delicious."

"The chicken here is crispy, juicy, and delicious."

"I found the vegetarian options here to be great."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7 PM with discounted sliders and drinks.

2

This location doesn't have waiter service; you order and pick up your food.

3

A 20% tip is added to your bill by default at checkout.

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