If the grocery store is the new nightclub these are my favorite dive bars
As we approach the one year anniversary of stay at home orders and everyone is seemingly taking time to reflect and grapple with the unknown long-lasting societal effects of the ongoing damn Panini (yes, I will be referring to it in Gen Z terms), I thought it would be rude if I didn’t join in on a particular part of the conversation I’m enjoying …“the grocery store is the new nightclub”.
As a Queens resident, the first month or so we were in the Pan Dulce was somber, to say the least. No one knew anything. A trip to the grocery store meant suiting up for battle. Gloves, masks, glasses, and Purell locked and loaded ready to fire off at any unsuspecting droplets. Instead of my usual musings, my mind was cluttered with questions I had never pondered before. Should I invest in a bidet? Yes, because toilet paper is now harder to get than a limited Supreme drop. Do I need to Lysol my groceries? Don’t know, but doesn’t matter because it’s sold out everywhere.
Soon the weird apocalyptic zone we existed in became the norm and the grocery store continued to be THE space to plan all at-home events around. And so whilst everyone is reflecting on their newfound Panna Cotta - induced appreciation for the grocer store, I thought it would be rude if I didn’t join in with some of my favorites.
For Williamsburg residents, this recommendation will come as no surprise. Depanneur is not your average grocery store. This isn’t the place you’d go for a big haul but rather select artisanal goods or a mean elevated sandwich.
Opened last year, Edy’s Grocer in Greenpoint is a new fan favorite. Offering a range of Lebanese grocery and deli items, you’re sure to scoop up some unique goodies curated by the founder (who also happens to be a private chef).
As a former Bushwick resident, I have spent many weekends sipping coffee and eating -just the tip- of a fresh baguette from Foster Sundry . Cafe socializers be warned… it’s very much a get your shit and get moving type joint. Don’t expect to have a meaningful exchange with the staff but do expect to enjoy consuming whatever you purchase.
Plant-based consumers, you already know what Orchard Grocer is all about. For those who don’t, it’s a fully vegan grocery shop located in the Lower East Side. They specialize in bomb vegan sandwiches and snacks. Be sure to check out the seasonal soft-serve special.
Short and sweet, Pop Up Grocer offered Brooklyn residents a bit of excitement this past Autumn for a one-month installation in Williamsburg. Showcasing hundreds of innovative products from emerging brands, PUG created a bright immersive experience for Panatela-weary consumers to discover new favorites. My PUG favorites here include the Something & Nothing yuzu seltzer and Taika Macadamia Latte.
Honorable mentions in the cafe grocer hybrid include L'imprimerie, Porcelain, Rolos, and Sunrise / Sunset.
vegan bread pudding
For a country that sincerely loves savory bread pudding, also known as stuffing, the United States is seriously lacking in the sweet bread pudding category. Drawing inspiration from this Irish Coffee Soda Bread Pudding recipe, I’ve created a two day veganized adventure for all bread enthusiasts out there. If you don’t like this recipe your taste is as stale as the bread that went into it. Kidding…this does work well with stale bread though so if you don’t want to bake a loaf yourself and happen to have a loaf of bread going off at home, give it a whirl.
For the bread
2 C oat milk (or any non-dairy alternative)
2 tbsp white vinegar (or lemon)
2 C self-rising flour
2 C whole wheat flour
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp baking soda
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375 F.
Mix 2 C oat milk with 2 tbsp white vinegar and rest for 15 mins. This will act as your “buttermilk” you can also use lemon if you have that available.
In a separate bowl mix together all dry ingredients. Once thoroughly combined create a well in the middle of the bowl and pour milk mixture into the well.
Using your hands mix the dough together. When the wet and dry ingredients are combined into a sticky dough, turn it out onto a floured surface. The dough should be formed into a ball and then pat down to a 1 1/2 - 2 inch disk.
Using a pastry cutter or knife, cut an X into the top of the dough disk and place into a parchment lined dutch oven.
Bake in dutch oven 35-40 minutes or until brown. Let bread cool before enjoying with your favorite vegan butter. Be sure to save some for your bread pudding!
-one + day later-
For the pudding
4 flax eggs (1 egg = 1 tbsp shredded flax mixed with 1.5 tbsp water)
3/4 C brown sugar
1 tbsp espresso powder + 1 tbsp hot water
2 C Califia Farms iced almond milk double espresso
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp salt
1 loaf day old Irish soda bread (ripped into 1 inch ish cubes)
Powdered sugar (decoration optional)
For the caramel sauce, I took inspiration from this salted caramel recipe but decided to exclude the full-fat coconut milk because I found the consistency with just the condensed coconut milk to be perfect.
For the caramel
1 can Nature’s Charm coconut condensed milk
1 C brown sugar
4 tbsp vegan butter
1 tsp Maldon’s salt flakes
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 2-quart baking dish.
In a small bowl combine 4 tbsp shredded flax with 10 tbsp water. Stir and let mixture rest for 15 minutes until it thickens. This will act as the egg replacement.
In a medium bowl, whisk together iced coffee drink with vanilla, cinnamon and salt. In the smaller bowl combine the sugar with the set flax eggs. Combine 1 tbsp espresso powder with 1 tbsp hot water. Mix all wet ingredients.
In a separate bowl rip your loaf into 1inch (ish) cubes and pour liquid mixture on top. Make sure the bread cubes are fully submerged in the liquid and soak for one hour.
Once an hour has passed cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
While the bread pudding is baking make your caramel. Combine all ingredients over a medium heat and bring to a boil. Once a boil is reached turn the stove down to low and let the mixture simmer for 20 minutes, stirring in the vanilla at the 15 min mark.
Take your pudding out of the oven and uncover. Sprinkle with raw sugar or if you like your bread pudding extra gooey drizzle with your fresh caramel and pop it back into the oven uncovered for 15-20 minutes.
Let your pudding cool for about 10 minutes before you dust it with powdered sugar (optional) and serve it with warm caramel and your favorite vegan ice cream or whipped topping.
Zest for: homemade yogurt
If I had known how easy the process of DIY plant-based yogurt would be I would have started eons ago. The below recipe is a goodie from Future Food Institute.
The first step is to combine the below ingredients to create the coconut cream base. Add more salt and lemon to taste.
1 Liter full-fat coconut cream
70g Refined coconut oil, melted
5g Vanilla extract
45g Maple syrup
1tsp Lemon juice
2g Salt
Once all ingredients are combined proceed to the fermenting stage. Stir in 5 live probiotic capsules (minimum 2 billion CFU) and let the mixture sit at room temperature between 12-18 hours.
The final step is yogurt consistency! Pour the fermented yogurt mixture into a blender. Combine the below ingredients to boil stirring for 10 seconds. Stream the Agar Agar into a blender until the desired consistency is reached.
4g Agar agar powder (if using flakes, use 12g and cook for 2-3 minutes)
40g Water
Plant-based starter pack
If there ever was a starter pack for an aspiring vegan it would consist of hummus, carrots, and tortilla chips. While obviously a fan of the classics….it’s 2020 we’ve got options now. Below are easy, breezy, beautiful dips and spreads to start you on your journey.
The name says it all with the first recommendation. Start with the original Bitchin’ Sauce and work your way through the tangy and satisfying dips.
Although traditionally used for pasta rather than as a dip, I had to include a local NY favorite by Gotham Greens in the roundup. The vegan pesto is a great summer addition to a refreshing plant-based diet.
A confusing contender in the dairy-free category, Majestic Garlic dips are so creamy you might find yourself double and triple checking the label for milk additives.
Roots is not your average hummus. The self proclaimed “microbrew of hummus” suppliers offers cold pressed variations on classic hummus flavors in addition to unique flavors like Mango Sriracha.
Come for the original vegan mayo and stay for the plant-based chipotle with Sir Kensington's. Pro tip: cut up some sweet potato wedges, pop them in the oven and slather them in this sauce.
Zest for: Raw Lasagna
Matthew Kenny eat your heart out. Quarantine phase three has resulted in my putting my money where my mouth is. In other words, I’ve invested in a plant-based culinary program. Two weeks into the Future Food Institute course and I’m feeling like a goddamn pro. As I chef through the modules I plan to share dishes I have a particular zest for, starting with raw lasagna.
This dish is nuts (pun intended) and absolutely worth the hype. The DIY components are as follows: tomato marinara, pistachio pesto, macadamia ricotta, herb oil and zucchini “pasta”. Absent of the nap-inducing heaviness created by conventional lasagna, this is the perfect summer dish. Pair with a chilled sangiovese if you’re freaky.
Heirloom Tomato + Zucchini | Lesson 8 of 119
DIY plant-based Aperitivo hour
Aperitivo hour, as most Italians can attest, is the best time of day. I was first introduced to the concept at in a quaint beach town on Italy’s Adriatic coast. When I learned the purchase of a €7 spritz meant access to an array of local bites…it was over. While observed at a number of Italian restaurants across New York City boroughs, aperitivo service is currently limited due to seating restrictions. As a result, it’s time to DIY. Below are some local Bushwick/Ridgewood favorites to source your bites and sips.
A community French bakery café in Bushwick, L’imprimerie is a francophiles wet dream. Offering unparalleled freshly baked bread, pastries and select pantry items, it is hard to leave with just one item. With aperitivo in mind, however, the classic baguette and a pizza kit should be your go to items (cheese not included).
As a former Bushwick resident, I maintain Angels Supermarket is the best neighborhood shop for fresh produce and exotic fruit. This small family run shop is hard to beat in the ripe and price categories from apples and grapes to prickly pears and feijoa. Pro tip: buy a few avocados while you’re here.
If you’re reading this, chances are you have a thing for specialty grocers. With curated selection of spreads, nibbles and sips, Fosters Sundry is a Bougie shop with a capital B. Select a number of picnic basket items here then head a few doors down to the local City Fresh Market for a popular plant-based cheese and meat selection.
If your version of the after life includes a self service olive bar, Parrot Coffee is for you. Parrot is a European Balkan and Middle Eastern gourmet grocery with a large inventory of items you won’t find in your local US shop. Fill up a tub of assorted olives, dolmas, a jar of Ajvar and perhaps a slice of baklava if you’re feeling cheeky.
Finally, libations. If you’re natural wine enthusiast Forêt Wines must be the place. If you’re eager to dip your toes in but unsure of what natural wine you’ll like, send the staff a note and they’ll pick for you. Order ahead and be sure to byo bag when picking up your bottle. If a spritz is more your style, plan ahead with the best summer beverages.
Summer escape to the rockaways
If you have a love/hate relationship with New York City in summer, you’re doing it right. While the concrete jungle has a sultry appeal to some, replacing it with a sandy landscape, a dip in the ocean and some summer bites is a favorable alternative. Stop by the below local eateries for a good time.
A personal favorite, Caracas offers a range of Venezuelan bites to satisfy vegetarian and carnivorous palates. The “Super V” arepa (Black beans, sweet plantains, avocado, jalapeños) with a frozen sangria is hard to beat as far as beach day meals go.
What started out as an affinity for the açaí bowls at Cuisine by Claudette has resulted in a love for the whole damn menu. A casual health-conscious cafe, this Rockaways chain is a local legend. Highly recommend.
If you see the sign for “No Jabronis”, you’ve reached the ultimate beach shack Rippers. The menu is pretty straight forward and veg friendly offering vegan burgers, fries and smoothies.
Finally, the award for best location to pretend to be a surfer goes to Tacoway Beach. This summer-only joint is simple and effective. Get there before the end of beach day crowd rolls in to secure your tacos…once they sell out, they’re out.
Pro tip: If you can take a car to the beach to limit contact with others, I’d highly recommend it. If not, be prepared to wait for a seat on the ferry if you do not wish to take the subway. Continue to wear a mask and practice social distancing on the beach and boardwalk.
Heatwave guide to the best Plant-based Ice creams
It’s safe to say the dog days have arrived early this summer. When the heatwave hits New York, it just hits different. With less in-shop licking options available, cool down with a scoop to go or via pint at home. Below are some plant-based alternatives that seek to satisfy.
First up, the grandfathers of social responsibility, Ben & Jerry’s. The dairy-free spin offs of the classics (we’re talking Cherry Garcia, Half Baked, Milk and Cookies) give you a chance to put your money where your mouth is. Sure, they tend air on the side of high when it comes to sugar content… but we could all use a bit of sweet, sweet relief right now.
Generally speaking I gravitate towards coconut based alternatives when it comes to vegan sweets. I first tried Coconut Bliss when I was in the mood for something rich and chocolatey; the dark chocolate did not disappoint. Coconut Bliss has also added an ice cream sandwich reminiscent of a Chipwich to their menu which is a plus although I’m still waiting for a Choco Taco variation.
Aptly named, The Coconut Cult found an easy convert in me. I went to a gut health chat ONE time and now I actively search for products with probiotics. The gluten-free cookie dough pint is a recurring star on my grocery list. Come for the healthy gut bacteria, stay for the mother and son duo on Instagram.
Offering scoops, sandwiches and fudge bars galore, So Delicious is inclusive to all dairy-free consumers. No other brand has this level of almond, cashew, oat and soy alternatives available (yet). For that, we give thanks where thanks are due.
At last we’ve reached the hometown hero, Van Leeuwen. Brooklyn’s local favorite started off serving from a friendly yellow truck and now is a trendy scoop shop chain. Stop in a local chain to pick up a pint or order a scoop of whatever the vegan special is to go.
A spritz lover’s guide to the best summer Beverages
While I’m a firm believer in spritzing my way through every season, the general public has seemingly nominated the “spritz” to be a summer-forward beverage. Whether you’re a seasonal spritzer or a year-round sipper below are some bubbly favorites to DIY at home or take on the go.
It’s important to give thanks where thanks are due. It would be wrong to chat spritz without mentioning the reining effervescent champion cocktail, THE Aperol Spritz. My own spin on the classic recipe features either a Spindrift grapefruit or Topo Chico seltzer with a generous amount of fresh cut oranges.
If the spritz procreated with a summer ale, the offspring would be the Brooklyn Spritz from Brooklyn Brewery. Tart, citrusy, and portable, these are great for a cheeky bbq and your beer loving mates.
Reminiscent of a Mediterranean aperitivo hour, non-alcoholic Ghia is a delightful newcomer to the spritz market. This tonic is a great addition to any bar cart. I’d recommend starting with a classic Ghia spritz: seltzer and a sprig of rosemary. Then, if you’re freaky, add some liquor for your second.
Euphoria in a glass. Kin Euphorics offers a canned non-alcoholic spritz in addition to their larger bottles of euphoric mixers. Not proven, but I will say these fun-sized cans will lift your mood just by looking at them.
Ramona is wine, “but cooler” according to their social feed. I agree. Not only are they cooler, but every single flavor is delightful. While I’ve taken a special shine to the ruby red grapefruit I would happily accept any variation.
Summer escape to the catskills
Summer in New York City is not unlike a Mister Softee served straight from the truck…sweet, sticky and a bit of a mess. While there is much to love about the seasonal scene in the city, if you’re like me, sometimes you just need a little dose of nature. Luckily a scenic day-trip or weekend getaway to a number of charming upstate gems is just a drive away.
The Catskills region is a charmer. Offering a natural reprieve for city slickers, plan a socially distant hiking weekend getaway or a long-term stay in one of several quaint hamlets. Below are are a few of my favorite towns to visit and places to grab a bite before or after a hike (pro tip: call ahead to be sure they’re open for take-out or have an outdoor seating).
A favorite of skiiers and boarders alike, Hunter is a chilled small mountain resort town to offering mountain views and spaces to kick back after a long day on the slopes. In summer, however, the focus is shifted on proximity to restaurants, breweries and hiking trails.
Jagerberg Hall transports diners to the alpines with a hefty menu of beers and burgers. Come hungry, and wearing stretchy pants.
Scribers Prospect is a definitely catered to the city slicker crowd. The menu is slightly more expensive and bougie than the surrounding restaurants but worth a visit for a special occasion.
West Kill Brewing is a whole upstate NY vibe. There is something truly special about this space. Their focus on locally grown and foraged ingredients for their brews is an added plus.
If you’re less of a hiker and more of a shopper this one’s for you. Neighboring Hunter, Tannersville has slightly more to offer visitors on the food front in addition to several quaint antique stores. Go for a bite and stay for the chance of acquiring something unique.
Maggie’s Crooked Cafe & Juice Bar is your new favorite go-to diner type cafe. The menu is simple yet satisfying and the staff is lovely.
Twin Peaks Coffee and Donuts serves up exactly what it says in the name. Order up a fresh batch of donuts (made on the spot) and a large coffee to match.
Lastly, you’ve surely heard of this town. A larger central town offering several restaurants, artisan shops and festival-inspired shops, Woodstock is a must-visit. Below is just a culinary snippet of what the town has to offer.
Bread Alone Bakery might be somewhat familiar to you as an artisan loaf available in grocery stores. This bakery allows you to get the wheaty goodness straight from the source. Pop in for a loaf or sandwich.
Garden Cafe is a plant-based eaters dream. While most restaurants in Woodstock are veg friendly this place truly takes the cake (sans dairy of course). When open, a table in the garden is worth the wait.
Yum Yum Noodle Bar is a winner in both food and drink categories. Contrary to the name this eatery offers much more than noodles…we’re talking Banh Mi, Korean Tacos and more.
Plant-based guide to chinese restaurants in manhattan
The best travel experiences start with this question: “what will I eat?” As a plant-based food connoisseur I do my research. Manhattan neighborhoods vary in cuisine but one thing they have in common is A LOT of veg friendly restaurants. Below are my some of my favorite Manhattan eateries featuring Chinese cuisine.
Born in China and serving in NYC, MáLà Project is the spice GOAT (Greatest Of All Time) of the East Village. Thoughtfully designed with a menu to match MáLà project is a must-visit. Order a dry bowl with all of the veggies and ideal spice level. Do not miss out on the taro, lotus root or the variety mushrooms offered. Pro tip if you’re a drinker: keep the cold Tsingdaos coming.
With a small menu of high quality local and seasonal offerings, the team at Mimi Chengs has built a dedicated community around family recipes. Order boiled or fried dumplings to eat in or takeaway a batch of frozen dumps to go.
Clearly spice is a main priority for me when visiting Chinese establishments. When I say Spicy Moon brings the heat, I mean it. From Dan Dan noodles with Beyond beef to the dry pot lunch specials, Spice Moon seeks to satisfy.
Except no imitations…except for the faux meat at The Original Buddha Bodai. This vegan classic is located in the heart of Chinatown. Come for the sesame chicken and stay for the salty short ribs.
Offering up bevy of Pan-Asian vegan dishes, Luannes Wild Ginger is the old reliable for plant-based eaters. Visit one of their several locations throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn for quality eats. If you’re in around lunch time give the lunch special a go.
Famous is literally in the name of the last beloved Chinese eatery. Xi'an Famous Foods is the tuck shop you will be forever grateful you were introduced to. For vegetarians, the hand-ripped noodles and spinach dumplings are a must-try (vegans beware there are eggs in both). Pro tip: there’s always more room for extra chili oil.
THE BEST PLACES TO WORK REMOTELY IN Ridgewood
Freelancing on a full-time basis means A LOT of searching for the BEST places to work remotely. Below are some of my favorite places to work from in the Ridgewood neighborhood of Queens. We’re talking: strong wifi, good food options and the right ambience.
Family owned and operated, C. Lo Cafe is a quaint “no frills” establishment offering seasonal Guatemalan-inspired dishes. Visitors can expect homey eats and friendly services.
Freelance bagel enthusiasts can be satiated at Milk and Pull. One of three sister cafes, the Ridgewood version is definitely the middle child of the bunch in that it is accommodating and low key the best.
For the cinematic working experience, visit Porcelain. This Austrian cafe serves up beautiful food in an equally enchanting setting.
Plant-based sandwiches, salads and smoothies galore, The Stoop is a vegan dream. The pestorella sandwich is one of my favorites but I’ve heard good things about the chuna melt as well.
If you like getting immersed in the smell of books and coffee, Topos Bookstore Cafe is the Ridgewood cafe for you. Simple menu and relaxed atmosphere.
Bombe Lunch: soba noodles edition
Join me, along with my dear friend and fellow lunch special devotee Daniela Spector, as we follow some recipes and try not duck them up.
The lunch that turned into dinner. We gave this recipe an 8.5/10 review on the bombe lunch scale. Easy, but visually sophisticated, this recipe is a winner. The overall flavor of the dish soba was quite delicate. I’m typically a sea salt hound when it comes to noodle and pasta dishes. It was tasty without, but I definitely added a generous sprinkle here and there after a couple of bites.
If you try this at home we recommend borrowing or investing in a mortar and pestle. Although you can use a rolling pin and bowl alternative like Daniela did, it’ll make your life easier.
Ingredients: pine nuts, hulled sunflower seeds, black sesame seeds, cane sugar, shoyu/tamari/soy sauce, mirin, toasted sesame oil, brown rice vinegar, cayenne pepper, sea salt, soba noodles, extra-firm tofu, olive oil + scallions.
Full recipe by Heidi Swanson available in Cherry Bombe: The Cookbook
The best places to work remotely in williamsburg
Freelancing on a full-time basis means A LOT of searching for the BEST places to work remotely. Below are some of my favorite places to work from in the Williamsburg neighborhood of Brooklyn. We’re talking: strong wifi, good food options and the right ambience.
Let’s be honest. Chances are you’ve already seen pictures of Devocion on Instagram. The Williamsburg location is a beaut, the coffee is bold and the pastries are sweet. Really, the only downside of this cafe is just how likable it is. Get there early and claim your spot on one of the couches below the skylights.
Cafe by day, manhattanite bar by night, Freehold is an unusual contender in the freelance category. The best part of this place is space. There are plenty of areas to work from. Whether you prefer the cafe, restaurant or backyard is up to you.
Seasoned Williamsburg freelancers know Gotan is the spot. With a quality all day menu and unlimited sparkling water on tap, this spot is a great solo or lunch meeting choice.
Newer to the Williamsburg scene, local chain Hungry Ghost recently popped up around the Lorimer stop.The cafe playlist is as much of a vibe as the regulars are relaxed.
The award for the most underrated freelance cafe in Williamsburg goes to Little Choc Apothecary. This vegan creperie is a quaint two story building within walking distance of the main Bedford strip. It may be a bit pricer than your average cafe but it’s worth the experience.
Who doesn’t love a good Australian Cafe? Formerly known as Toby’s Estate, Partners Coffee underwent a rebranding but still offers the same quality menu we’ve come to love. This is a high traffic cafe for locals and tourists alike.
Plant-based guide to Greenpoint
The best travel experiences start with this question: “what will I eat?” As a plant-based food connoisseur I do my research. Brooklyn neighborhoods vary in cuisine but one thing they have in common is A LOT of veg friendly restaurants. Below are my favorite Greenpoint eateries.
Vietnamese cuisine with a modern flair, Di An Di offers a crowd pleasing menu for every season. The seared mushroom pho (with or without the egg) is a truly cure-all soup for the soul.
Aussie cafe lovers this one is for you. Situated on the corner of McCarren Park, Five Leaves is a popular neighborhood cafe offering all the brunch classics. If you visit on the weekend come early or be prepared to wait.
If you’re a dips and spreads kind of person Glasserie is for you. Housed in the former Greenpoint Glassworks, this unique eatery offers proper mediterranean mezze and unique cocktails to match. Pro tip: go with people who want a lil bit of everything on the menu.
Come for the vegan buffet and stay for the positive vibes at Jungle Cafe. This plant-based eatery is dedicated to creating wholesome conscious food and encouraging community around it.
An ideal date night includes delicious food, creative cocktails and incredible ambience. Luckily for Greenpoint date adventurers, Oxomoco has all three.
Because vegans can have fun too. Screamers Pizzeria is your dirty plant-based option for a slice or pie of gooey cheesy goodness.
The best places to work remotely in Bushwick
Freelancing on a full-time basis means A LOT of searching for the BEST places to work remotely. Below are some of my favorite places to work from in the Bushwick neighborhood of Brooklyn. We’re talking: strong wifi, good food options and the right ambience.
Sister to the beloved Bushwick cafe (RIP Little Skips), Baby Skips is a reliable coffee and bite spot. Commuters love this joint. Be prepared to wait a bit to order if you’re an early riser.
Cafe by day, bar by night, Cafe Erzulie is a place that encapsulates the word groovy. Enter through the flower shop, grab a drink at the bar and head to the backyard oasis.
Dank beans and eats, Dweebs is an old reliable hole-in-the-wall neighborhood cafe filled with regulars. If you for some reason need to use a printer in 2020…Dweebs has a few.
Locally sourced and crafted with love, Millie’s Cuban Cafe is a family-owned gem filled with warmth. Cortados, tostadas and maduros, oh my. The menu offers a number of dishes from breakfast to dinner and everything in between (including several vegan options).
Attention bagel lovers, Milk and Pull is the Bushwick freelance destination for you. This little nook is a local chain offering friendly service, Stumptown coffee and bites.
Boasting a large menu of acai bowls, smoothies, salads and sandwiches, Pitanga is your go to Brazilian cafe. Located between the subway and the walkable Maria Hernandez Park, it’s an equally easy spot to get to and escape from when it gets too crowded.
Thoughtfully designed, Sey Coffee is a dreamy spot for lovers of minimalism. The coffee is as strong as the people watching is eclectic. This is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Get there early to claim your seat.
Food, wine, it is always a good time at Sunrise/Sunset. The menu here has something for every palate. The quaint grocery store similarly offers a range of snacks, albeit boujee.
Cash only and cozy, Swallow Cafe shines in the dimly lit cafe space. In a neighborhood of try-hard cafe, the appearance of not trying to be trendy is what makes Swallow Cafe a good place to work.
Get your coffee and get to work at Variety Coffee Roasters because the staff means business. While it may not be for everyone, frequent sippers here appreciate the “don’t waste my time” vibe.
Plant-based guide to Bushwick
The best travel experiences start with this question: “what will I eat?” As a plant-based food connoisseur I do my research. Brooklyn neighborhoods vary in cuisine but one thing they have in common is A LOT of veg friendly restaurants. Below are my favorite Bushwick eateries.
Sweet sipping Sol Sips is the little takeout spot you didn’t realize we needed. Stop in for a fresh pressed juice, a savory vegan sandwich or the daily special. It’s all good.
Entirely underrated but always delightful, Momo Sushi Shack is a plant-based sushi lover’s dream date spot. Options, they’ve got plenty. Pro tip: head in for a lunch special to get more bang for your buck. Try the inari, have a beer, get wild.
I have a deep sentimental attachment to El Kucho. This homestyle Mexican/Tex-mex eatery makes bomb veg-friendly options and strong margaritas. The friendly staff is also an added plus.
Offering a range of vegetarian alternatives, Millie’s Cuban Cafe is a neighborhood gift that keeps on giving. From impossible picadillo bowls and avocado tostadas to almond cortados, you will not be disappointed by a visit here.
For all of the dirty bar food babies out there, Syndicated is your go-to spot for all greasy classics from crispy cauliflower wings to impossible burgers. Pro tip: plan ahead. This bar meets movie theater hybrid publishes the film screening calendar on the first (ish) of each month. Lock your tickets in! You’re welcome.
Finally, Bunna Cafe is at the top of the must-eat list for Bushwick. Brunch or dinner date, the Ethiopian restaurant serves up an entirely vegan menu. Pro tip: order the feast for two with Shai Correnti’s to drink.
Bombe Lunch: Savory Oatmeal Edition
Join me, along with my dear friend and fellow lunch special devotee Daniela Spector, as we follow some recipes and try not duck them up.
We gave this recipe a 7/10 review on the bombe lunch scale. Delightfully savory, this umami mami of a dish is the perfect pre-siesta cozy meal. The only downside to this recipe, if you see it as a downside, was the sheer amount leftovers (and who wants leftover oatmeal?). The recipe could easily feed three friends if not four. That being said, I plan on keeping this recipe in my back (corduroy) pocket for future cold seasons to come.
Ingredients: Olive oil, Oyster Mushrooms, Salt + Pep, Garlic, Scallions, Egg, Tamari, White Miso, Sesame Seeds + Yogurt (op).
Full recipe by Lexie Smith available in Cherry Bombe: The Cookbook
A BLOG IS BORN.
Coming soon: The best neighborhood guide of Brooklyn featuring local plant-based recommendations, restaurants, cafes, brewery and bars. Bespoke upstate New York adventures from artsy day-trips to long weekend escapes in the Catskills. How not to behave like a tourist abroad. A yogi’s tips on traveling solo. The art of being a digital creative and a physical healer. Creating freelance social media marketing opportunities in an uncertain economy. And much, much more. The aim is to delight and inspire, while also bumping my search engine ranking. Hey now, I’m just being honest.