If you’re hungry…
If you haven’t been yet, go and check out JAJAJA Mexicana. Venetia and I love going here for the sexy ambience and delicious tacos. We went with two of our friends who were visiting from Toronto. They don’t take reservations, so show up early for a table. I also order a coconut mescal cocktail – “no straw please” – and the buffalo flower tacos. If you can handle a bit of spice and heat then try some of their homemade hot sauces. For pudding, the churritos are always a must – it’s also Venetia’s favourite too – just be sure to ask for no paper bag as that is how they present them #LessWaste.
If you have the chance, visit Westbourne. They say they’re ‘nothing to landfill’ and are ‘zero-waste’, which is incredible. I had no idea this place existed and I was living within walking distance. It’s not entirely vegan, and I overheard other customers say their food was delicious. I had the coconut yoghurt chia bowl for breakfast and the sautéed mushroom sandwich on rye bread (veganized, of course). I went for three days in a row and eventually they remembered my name. They’re also a no reservation space, so show up early and snag a seat before it’s too late. Bonus: they serve all food on plates and reusable cutlery, but also have linen napkins!
(READ MORE: BEST VEGAN RESTAURANTS IN NEW YORK CITY)
If you want fresh local produce…
No matter what time of year, I love heading to the farmer’s market for fresh seasonal local produce. There are only two farmer’s markets that I go to when I’m in New York and they are definitely a must try.
The most popular is 14th Street Union Square Market. Farmers make their journeys into Manhattan bright and early to set up their stalls, all coming from within 1-2 hours’ driving distance – so you know you’re getting local and fresh ingredients. You’ll see mushrooms from upstate New York, apples from Connecticut, squash and kale from Long Island. Make sure you have a few dollars to spend, as most farmers don’t have contactless.
Greenpoint McCarren Park Greenmarket in Brooklyn is another favourite of mine. Enjoy shopping amongst smaller and more boutique farmers’ stalls and head into McCarren park for an afternoon picnic when you’re done.