Six Vegetarian Lunches You Can Crush in Lower Manhattan Right Now

Vegetarian food has made leaps and bounds over the last few years, as more and more people turn away from animal products or are simply looking for ways to add more veggies to their diet. Aided by the rise of meatlike substitutes like Beyond and Impossible Burgers, vegetarians no longer need to rely on drab side salads or the occasional de facto portobello burger to get a fix. 

Still, even with an onslaught of new options on the market, it can be tough to know where to find the best meatless grub Downtown. Get a stomach full of what’s both vegetarian and substantial while entering some new spots where nobody knows your name. Whether on your lunch break or pulling an early happy hour, here’re six veggie-friendly options to mix up your repertoire.

1. 77 Burger This no-frills grill has a wide array of dishes for carnivores, but its vegan burger is nothing to sneeze at. Comprised of kale, peas, carrots, corn, yellow squash, zucchini, chickpeas and breadcrumbs, it comes with a choice of of salad and dressings— or fries, of course, if you need something less healthy. (77 Pearl Street)

2. Vietspot This reliably reliable banh mi operation will never let you down! It also serves Vietnamese classics including big bowls of pho to get you through these cold days, along with vermicelli, dumplings, air fried vegetable rolls and more. (99 Nassau Street)

3. 3 Times Dim Sum This fast-casual critical has a Mapo Tofu that you should drizzle in chili and Szechuan pepper oil to give those silky cubes a peppy kick. (38 Water Street)

4. Pisillo The little panini shop that could boasts six vegetarian sandwiches. The Campobasso is especially astounding: artichokes marinated into soft, garlicky submission and paired with slabs of smoked mozzarella. (97 Nassau Street)

5. White Horse Tavern A perfectly homey neighborhood dive where you can down a few drinks after (or during?) work in peace — but who knew you could also land some legitimately good veggie fare? The Veggie Burger Deluxe, slathered with deli mustard, hits the spot. Add a side of mozzarella sticks and life, for a moment or so, is complete. (25 Bridge Street)

6. Wogie’s It’s perfectly understandable for one to dismiss this cheesesteak joint even though it does offer a portobello sandwich — but more surprising is the garbage bread, which is far tastier than it sounds. Normally, this is bread stuffed with meats and cheeses, but the vegetarian version is replete with broccoli rabe, garlic, seasonings and a hint of lemon. There’s also fried zucchini for an indulgent starter. (44 Trinity Place)

photo: 3 Times Dim Sum