Calling all vegetarians! Just because it’s National Burger Month doesn’t mean that you need to miss out on all the fun. New York City is a diner’s paradise—especially for the non meat-eating crowd. Many of city’s finest restaurants now offer gourmet veggie burgers made from fresh vegetables and plant-sourced proteins that put those frozen grocery store varieties to shame. Trust us, they’re so tasty, they may even make your carnivore pals do a double-take. Here’s where to go for NYC’s best veggie burgers.
Pickle Shack
256 4th Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11215
(347) 763-2127
If we’re telling you to head to Gowanus for a sandwich, then rest assured, it’s going to be good. Made from fresh grilled vegetables and mushrooms, and topped with butter pickles (their speciality, of course), aioli, ketchup, and your choice of cheese, Pickle Shack’s veggie patty is filling without being too heavy. Cashew cheese is also offered for those on the vegan bandwagon.
Shake Shack
Locations throughout NYC
Just because you’re not eating meat doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re eating healthy. At Shake Shack, the ‘Shroom Burger is comprised of crisp-friend portobello mushrooms sandwiched between layers of ooey gooey muenster and cheddar cheese. It’s definitely not low in calories, but man, is it tasty.
Westville
Locations throughout NYC
Vegetarian options are a plenty at this low-key spot, but the true standout is the homemade veggie burger topped with mixed mushrooms and spicy tartar sauce. It’s served on an English muffin of sorts, which really lets the flavor of the patty shine through—and bonus—less carbs!
Organic Grill
123 1st Avenue
New York, NY 10003
(212) 477-7177
Going green has never been so delicious! At this east village gem, the signature roasted mushroom burger is served on an Ezekiel bun with pesto spread and piled high with your choice of cheese (vegan kinds too!), portobello mushrooms, caramelized onions, lettuce, tomato, and sprouts. But buyer beware—this is definitely not date food… unless you cut it into pieces. And really, who wants to bother with that?!
5 Napkin Burger
Locations throughout city
When life in NYC gets too stressful, sometimes you just need to veg out. Preferably, with this house made black bean, barley, sunflower seed creation from 5 Napkin Burger. Topped with the restaurant’s signature 5N sauce, butter pickles, lettuce, and tomato, it’s a pleasant change from all the mushroom laden options.
