Avant Garden

- 95 Avenue A, New York, NY 10009

In a city that is constantly buzzing with new culinary concepts, Avant Garden stands out not for its flash, but for its quiet and confident brilliance. Located on Avenue A in the vibrant East Village, this acclaimed restaurant is a destination for anyone seeking an experience that is both a feast for the eyes and a celebration of flavor. Avant Garden has established itself as a pioneer in the plant-based dining scene, proving that vegetables can be the star of an innovative, upscale menu without sacrificing an ounce of taste or creativity. It is a place where every dish is a work of art, meticulously crafted and thoughtfully presented, showcasing the natural beauty and complexity of its ingredients.

This restaurant is part of the esteemed Overthrow Hospitality group, a collection of award-winning vegan bars and restaurants founded by James Beard-nominated restaurateur Ravi DeRossi. His vision for Avant Garden was to create a fine-dining experience that was entirely plant-based, moving away from the common use of processed meat substitutes and instead focusing on fresh, high-quality, and organic vegetables. The menu is a testament to this philosophy, featuring dishes that are surprisingly complex and deeply satisfying, designed to appeal to all palates—from the most dedicated vegans to the most skeptical meat-eaters. It is a culinary revolution on a plate, with a clear mission to show the world that plant-based food is not just a trend but a truly inspiring form of cuisine.

The atmosphere at Avant Garden is as captivating as the food. The space is described as cozy, romantic, trendy, and upscale, a perfect blend of sophistication and comfort. The intimate setting, with its warm decor and plush seating, makes it an ideal spot for a special occasion, a romantic date night, or even a quiet, reflective solo dinner. The restaurant's intimate size contributes to a feeling of exclusivity and warmth, where you can watch the chefs at work in the open kitchen, adding to the immersive experience. Despite its upscale feel, Avant Garden maintains a welcoming and inclusive environment, proudly identifying as LGBTQ+ friendly and a transgender safespace, ensuring that every guest feels comfortable and respected.

Avant Garden is more than just a place to eat; it's a culinary journey. The menu, thoughtfully organized into sections like "Cold," "Toast," and "Hot," encourages a shared, tapas-style dining experience where you can sample a wide range of flavors and textures. The extensive wine list, curated to perfectly complement the plant-forward dishes, along with a creative cocktail menu, elevates the meal even further. The restaurant's dedication to providing a complete experience, from the food to the ambiance to the attentive service, is what has cemented its reputation as one of the best vegan restaurants in New York City.

Location and Accessibility

Avant Garden is conveniently located at 95 Avenue A, New York, NY 10009, USA. Situated in the lively East Village, it's a neighborhood known for its eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, and cultural landmarks. The restaurant is easily accessible via New York City's extensive public transportation system, with several subway lines and bus routes serving the area.

The restaurant's commitment to accessibility is a notable feature. It has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, restroom, and seating, ensuring that all guests can dine with ease and comfort. The space is located on the first floor, which, as one customer noted, can be a little tricky to spot but is well worth the effort. The bar and restroom are onsite, and the seating options range from intimate tables to a counter where you can watch the chefs create their masterpieces.

Services Offered

• Dine-in: Enjoy a full, sit-down dining experience with table service in the restaurant's beautiful and intimate setting.
• Takeout: For those who prefer to enjoy their meal at home, Avant Garden offers a convenient takeout service.
• Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations, and they are highly recommended, especially for dinner. Due to the restaurant’s popularity and intimate size, there is often a wait, so booking ahead is a great way to ensure a seamless experience.
• Catering: While not explicitly stated in the provided information, many restaurants within the same hospitality group offer catering services, making it a likely option for special events.
• Late-night food: For a late-night bite, Avant Garden offers a delicious menu to satisfy your cravings long after many other kitchens have closed.
• Alcoholic beverages: A full bar is available, offering a great selection of beer, cocktails, hard liquor, and a well-curated wine list.

Features / Highlights

• Innovative Plant-Based Menu: The menu is a highlight, known for its creative and plant-forward approach. The dishes, such as the Scorched Cauliflower and the Hen of the Woods, are lauded for their unique flavors and artistic presentation.
• Great Cocktails & Wine List: The restaurant is celebrated for its excellent drink selection, with a focus on great cocktails and a superb wine list that features organic and natural wines from around the globe.
• Romantic and Upscale Atmosphere: The ambiance is a major draw, with its cozy, intimate, and romantic setting making it a top choice for date nights and special occasions.
• Inclusive and Welcoming Space: Avant Garden proudly promotes itself as a safe and welcoming space for all, including being LGBTQ+ friendly and a transgender safespace.
• High-Quality, Organic Ingredients: The focus on fresh, healthy, and organic produce is a key feature, ensuring that the food is not only delicious but also of the highest quality.
• Great Desserts: Customers rave about the desserts, particularly the molten chocolate lava cake, which is a perfect end to the meal.

Contact Information

To experience this unique dining destination, you can find Avant Garden at the following address and phone number.

Address: 95 Avenue A, New York, NY 10009, USA

Phone: (833) 328-4588

What is worth choosing

Choosing Avant Garden is an investment in a truly memorable and high-quality dining experience. What makes it particularly worth choosing is its innovative approach to plant-based cuisine. Unlike other vegan spots that might rely on meat substitutes, Avant Garden uses vegetables as the foundation for their dishes, allowing their natural flavors to shine. The customer reviews highlight this, with one diner calling it "one of the most plant-forward and innovative menus in NYC." Dishes like the Cremini Mushroom Toast and the Scorched Cauliflower are praised for their unique, fresh flavors and beautiful presentation.

Beyond the food, the atmosphere is a compelling reason to visit. The cozy, intimate, and romantic setting makes it a perfect choice for a special occasion. As one reviewer noted, it’s a great place for a birthday celebration, with every dish being "beautifully crafted and memorable." The great selection of drinks, including an impressive wine list and non-alcoholic options, also adds to the overall experience. The restaurant is a true destination for solo diners and couples alike who appreciate creative and sophisticated cuisine.

While some might find the service a bit rushed at times, the overall consensus is that the food and ambiance more than make up for it. The fact that the restaurant is also a pioneer in the plant-based hospitality world, with a commitment to animal welfare and sustainability, gives diners a sense of purpose beyond just a meal. For anyone in New York who is looking to be inspired by vegetables, wants a cozy and romantic night out, or simply desires a meal that is both healthy and delicious, Avant Garden is a top-tier choice that lives up to its well-earned hype.

Avant Garden

95 Avenue A, New York, NY 10009, USA