Welcome back to the feature where we highlight our staff’s favorite places to explore in the neighborhood we know and love! This time we’re focusing on vegetarian-friendly restaurants. Whether vegetarian or omnivore, Lion Brand associates enjoy getting our fill of delicious plant-based dishes in the neighborhood. After your next visit to the Studio, give one of these places a try!

Check out Hu Kitchen for its trendy cafeteria vibe and delicious, healthy food! With the tagline “get back to human”, Hu Kitchen’s minimally-processed and mostly organic menu offers an extensive selection and meets a variety of dietary preferences. The food is gluten-free, vegetarian/vegan-friendly, and Paleo-friendly – including grass-fed, pastured meats and wild seafood. You order at the counter and can sit down to eat (plenty of space downstairs and upstairs) or take your food to go, so it’s great for a quick lunch spot. They have a coffee bar and tasty pastries, too!
http://hukitchen.com/
78 5^th Avenue between 13^th and 14^th Streets

Peacefood Café Downtown is a spacious vegan restaurant and bakery with a relaxed-yet-classy atmosphere. Their extensive and inventive menu includes both raw and gluten-free options sure to please vegans and omnivores alike. Try their chickpea fries when you’re in the mood for comfort food, their “un-chicken” when you want yummy mock chicken, or go for the Peace Bowl when you feel like eating light and healthy.  Save room for their delicious vegan desserts!
http://www.peacefoodcafe.com/
41 East 11^th Street between University Place and Broadway

Souen is an organic macrobiotic restaurant serving tasty Japanese cuisine at three locations in lower Manhattan. The restaurant describes macrobiotic food as “a means to live comfortably in harmony with nature”, and their menu focuses on simple and natural dishes, including fish. If you thought it was impossible to love steamed vegetables, try the macro plate with tahini dill dressing. YUM! The garlic greens are delicious, and they have lots of great lunch specials, too.
http://www.souen.net/
28 East 13^th Street between 5^th Avenue and University Place

 
Maoz Vegetarian is a fantastic fast-service spot for falafel. After you receive your order, be sure to visit the MaozBar for all the delicious signature salads, toppings, and sauces you can fit into your pita or salad! The broccoli is absolutely scrumptious. In addition to falafel, Maoz offers fresh juices and fries – both Belgian style and sweet potato. Be prepared for a line during peak lunch time. There are just a couple of counter seats available, or take your food to go and sit across the street in Union Square Park!
http://www.maozusa.com/
38 Union Square East between 16^th and 17^th Streets

Blossom Du Jour offers vegan fast food, including smoothies, salads, sandwiches, breakfast items (served all day!), and gluten-free sandwich and wrap options. Our staff favorite is the Blossom Bowl, where you can choose from a variety of veggies, grains, proteins, and dressings to make your own delicious bowl. Some counter seats and a few tables are available if you want to eat in – or take your food to go and eat in nearby Union Square Park!
http://blossomdujour.com/
15 East 13^th Street between 5^th Avenue and University Place