New York-style pizza is a beloved culinary icon, known for its thin crust, generous toppings, and signature fold. While traditional New York pizza typically contains cheese and often meat toppings, the question of whether it can be vegan has gained traction in recent years.
Traditional New York-style pizza is not vegan, but vegan versions are increasingly available across the city. Innovative pizzerias have embraced plant-based alternatives, crafting pies that capture the essence of New York pizza while catering to vegan diets. These establishments use dairy-free cheeses, vegetable toppings, and sometimes even plant-based meat substitutes to recreate classic flavors.
The rise of vegan pizza options in New York City reflects a growing demand for plant-based alternatives. From dedicated vegan pizzerias to traditional shops offering vegan selections, the city’s pizza landscape is evolving. Vegans and non-vegans alike can now enjoy a slice that honors the New York pizza tradition while aligning with plant-based dietary choices.
Understanding New York Style Pizza
New York style pizza is an iconic American dish that originated in the early 1900s. It features a thin, crispy crust that’s sturdy enough to hold up to generous toppings.
The dough is typically made with high-gluten bread flour, water, salt, yeast, and olive oil. This creates a chewy texture when baked.
One key characteristic is the size. New York pizzas are often sold by the slice from large 18-inch pies. The slices are wide and meant to be folded in half to eat.
Traditional toppings include tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese. Popular additions are pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers.
New York pizza differs from Neapolitan pizza in several ways:
- Thinner, crispier crust
- Larger size (14-18 inches vs 10-12 inches)
- Cooked in a gas oven rather than wood-burning
- Often sold by the slice
The cooking process uses deck ovens heated to around 500-550°F. This creates the signature crispy bottom and slightly charred edges.
While not traditionally vegan, many pizzerias now offer plant-based cheese and meat alternatives to cater to vegan customers.
What Makes Pizza Vegan
Vegan pizza replaces traditional animal-based ingredients with plant-derived alternatives. These substitutions allow pizza lovers to enjoy their favorite dish while adhering to a vegan lifestyle.
Vegan Cheese
Vegan cheese is a crucial component of plant-based pizza. It’s typically made from nuts, soy, or other plant proteins. Cashew-based cheeses offer a creamy texture, while almond and coconut varieties provide different flavors and melting properties.
Many vegan pizzerias use commercial vegan cheese brands designed specifically for pizza. These melt and stretch similarly to dairy cheese. Some establishments make their own in-house vegan cheese blends to achieve the desired taste and texture.
Nutritional yeast is often added to enhance the cheesy flavor. It provides a nutty, savory taste that complements other pizza toppings.
Vegan Meat Alternatives
Plant-based meats have revolutionized vegan pizza options. Vegan sausage, made from soy or pea protein, replicates the spicy, herbal flavors of traditional sausage. It’s often seasoned with fennel and other Italian herbs.
Vegan chicken, typically crafted from soy or wheat protein, offers a neutral base for various pizza styles. It can be seasoned to mimic different flavors and textures.
Vegan pepperoni is another popular topping. It’s usually made from a blend of plant proteins and spices to recreate the smoky, spicy taste of traditional pepperoni. These alternatives provide the savory, meaty experience many pizza lovers crave.
Plant-Based Toppings
Vegetables are the stars of many vegan pizzas. Classic options include bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and olives. Artichokes, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes add depth and complexity to plant-based pies.
Roasted garlic, fresh basil, and arugula provide aromatic flavors. Some pizzerias experiment with unique toppings like roasted squash, pickled vegetables, or caramelized onions to create distinctive vegan pizzas.
Vegan pesto, made with basil, olive oil, and nuts, serves as an alternative to traditional tomato sauce. Balsamic glaze or infused olive oils can add extra layers of flavor to plant-based pizzas.
Top Vegan-Friendly Pizzerias in New York City
New York City boasts an impressive array of vegan-friendly pizzerias catering to plant-based eaters. These establishments offer innovative and delicious vegan pizza options that rival their traditional counterparts.
Screamer’s Pizzeria
Screamer’s Pizzeria has gained a devoted following among vegan pizza enthusiasts in New York City. With multiple locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn, it’s easily accessible to pizza lovers across the city.
Screamer’s offers a wide variety of creative vegan pies, featuring plant-based cheese and meat alternatives. Their menu includes classic options like Margherita and Pepperoni, as well as unique creations such as the Buffalo Cauliflower pizza.
The pizzeria uses high-quality ingredients and perfects the balance of flavors in each slice. Customers appreciate the authentic New York-style thin crust and generous toppings.
Paulie Gee’s
Paulie Gee’s, located in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, has earned a reputation for its wood-fired pizzas and vegan-friendly options. The restaurant offers a separate vegan menu with inventive combinations.
Popular vegan choices include the “In Ricotta Da Vegan” with house-made vegan sausage and cashew ricotta, and the “Vegan Daniela Spinaci” topped with baby spinach and vegan Parmesan.
Paulie Gee’s commitment to quality ingredients and innovative flavor profiles has made it a favorite among vegans and non-vegans alike. The cozy, rustic atmosphere adds to the dining experience.
Double Zero
Double Zero, founded by renowned plant-based chef Matthew Kenney, brings upscale vegan pizza to the East Village. The restaurant focuses on using organic, sustainable ingredients to create artisanal pies.
Signature pizzas include the Truffle Cashew Cream with wild mushrooms and the Farro-Fennel Sausage with cashew mozzarella. Double Zero also offers gluten-free crust options for those with dietary restrictions.
The sleek, modern interior and carefully crafted cocktails make Double Zero an ideal spot for a special night out. It’s a testament to how sophisticated vegan pizza can be.
Vinnie’s Pizzeria
Vinnie’s Pizzeria, with locations in Williamsburg and Greenpoint, has embraced vegan options alongside its traditional menu. The pizzeria offers a extensive selection of vegan slices and whole pies.
Creative vegan offerings include the “Vegan Mac Attack” topped with vegan mac and cheese, and the “Vegan Cheeseburger” pizza. Vinnie’s also allows customers to build their own vegan pizzas with various toppings.
The casual, no-frills atmosphere and late-night hours make Vinnie’s a popular choice for quick bites and satisfying vegan pizza cravings.
Williamsburg Pizza
Williamsburg Pizza has made a name for itself with both traditional and vegan options. The pizzeria offers a dedicated vegan menu featuring plant-based versions of classic New York slices.
Vegan highlights include the Vegan White slice with garlic and vegan cheese, and the Vegan Grandma slice with a thin, crispy crust. Williamsburg Pizza also offers vegan versions of their specialty pies.
With multiple locations across Brooklyn and Manhattan, it’s a convenient option for vegan pizza lovers throughout the city. The pizzeria maintains high standards for both its vegan and non-vegan offerings.
Tufino Pizzeria
Tufino Pizzeria in Astoria, Queens, specializes in wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizzas, including several vegan options. The restaurant uses a custom-built wood-burning oven to achieve the perfect crust.
Vegan choices include the “Vegan Margherita” with house-made cashew mozzarella and the “Vegana” topped with mixed vegetables and vegan cheese. Tufino also offers build-your-own options with vegan ingredients.
The cozy, family-friendly atmosphere and attention to detail in pizza-making have made Tufino a neighborhood favorite. It’s worth the trip to Queens for vegan pizza enthusiasts.
Scarr’s Pizza
Scarr’s Pizza on the Lower East Side has gained acclaim for its commitment to using high-quality, organic ingredients. While not exclusively vegan, Scarr’s offers excellent vegan options.
The pizzeria makes its vegan cheese in-house and offers a vegan slice of the day. Scarr’s also allows customers to veganize many of its specialty pies upon request.
The retro decor and focus on sustainability add to Scarr’s appeal. It’s a great option for those seeking a health-conscious approach to vegan pizza.
Village Square Pizza
Village Square Pizza has multiple locations across Manhattan, offering New York-style slices with a gourmet twist. The pizzeria features several vegan options on its regular menu.
Standout vegan choices include the “Super Vegan” topped with broccoli, artichoke, and basil pesto, and the “Vegan Cleo” with vegan sausage and roasted peppers. Village Square also offers vegan versions of classic cheese and pepperoni slices.
The pizzeria’s commitment to quality ingredients and generous portions has made it popular among vegans and non-vegans alike. Late-night hours at some locations make it a convenient option for night owls.
Unregular Pizza
Unregular Pizza in the East Village takes an unconventional approach to pizza-making, including its vegan offerings. The pizzeria specializes in Roman-style pizza al taglio, served in rectangular slices.
Vegan options rotate regularly but often include creative combinations like the “Vegan Carbonara” and the “Vegan Truffle” with mushrooms and truffle oil. Unregular Pizza uses high-quality vegan cheese alternatives.
The unique style and flavor combinations set Unregular Pizza apart from traditional New York pizzerias. It’s an excellent choice for vegans looking to try something different.
Dining Beyond Pizza: Vegan Options in NYC
New York City offers a diverse array of vegan dining experiences beyond pizza. From upscale restaurants to casual eateries and sweet treats, plant-based eaters have plenty of options to explore.
Vegan Fine Dining
Coletta stands out as a top choice for upscale vegan Italian cuisine in NYC. The restaurant serves elegant plant-based versions of classic dishes in a sophisticated atmosphere. Diners can enjoy innovative creations like cashew ricotta ravioli and eggplant parmesan.
For those seeking a high-end sushi experience, Omakase-style vegan restaurants have emerged in recent years. These establishments offer meticulously crafted plant-based sushi using ingredients like marinated tomatoes, smoked carrot, and king oyster mushroom to mimic traditional fish textures and flavors.
Vegan Casual Eats
Two Boots offers a variety of vegan pizza options across multiple locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn. Their menu features unique pies like the Vegan Cleo and Super Vegan, catering to diverse tastes with creative toppings.
Artistic Pizza on West 3rd Street provides NY-style vegan pizzas alongside gluten-free options. Their menu includes traditional vegan cheese and pepperoni pies, as well as specialty creations like the spicy Vegan Shmoogula.
For brunch enthusiasts, several cafes offer plant-based versions of classic morning fare. Vegan pancakes, tofu scrambles, and dairy-free lattes are readily available at popular spots throughout the city.
Vegan Sweets
New York’s vegan dessert scene has flourished, with numerous ice cream shops offering dairy-free scoops. Flavors range from classics like vanilla and chocolate to unique creations featuring exotic fruits and nuts.
Vegan bakeries have also gained popularity, serving up plant-based versions of New York staples like cheesecake and black-and-white cookies. Some establishments specialize in raw vegan desserts, crafting treats without refined sugars or processed ingredients.
For those craving something different, vegan soft-serve shops have popped up, offering swirled cones topped with an array of plant-based garnishes and sauces.
Special Dietary Considerations
New York-style pizzerias are adapting to accommodate various dietary needs. Many now offer gluten-free and vegan options, using innovative ingredients and techniques to ensure everyone can enjoy a slice.
Gluten-Free Vegan Pizza
Gluten-free vegan pizza is becoming increasingly available in New York City. Pizzerias use alternative flours like rice, almond, or chickpea to create crusts suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
These pizzas often feature toppings like roasted vegetables, vegan sausage, and dairy-free cheeses. Popular vegan cheese options include Daiya, Teese, and Violife, which melt similarly to traditional mozzarella.
Some establishments offer cauliflower crusts as a low-carb, gluten-free alternative. These provide a unique texture and flavor while accommodating dietary restrictions.
Vegan and Allergy-Friendly Menus
Many New York pizzerias now provide dedicated vegan menus. These feature plant-based versions of classic toppings like pepperoni, sausage, and bacon made from soy or seitan.
Vegan mozzarella is a staple on these menus, offering a convincing cheese-like experience. Some pizzerias make their own cashew-based cheeses in-house for a more artisanal touch.
Allergy-friendly options are clearly labeled on menus, indicating common allergens like nuts, soy, and wheat. Staff are often trained to prevent cross-contamination during preparation.
Many establishments offer build-your-own pizza options, allowing customers to customize their pies to meet specific dietary needs or preferences.
Innovation in Vegan Pizza
Vegan pizza has undergone a culinary revolution in recent years. Creative chefs and pizzerias are pushing boundaries, offering exciting plant-based options that rival traditional pies in taste and texture.
Artisanal and Gourmet Variations
Emmy Squared has made waves with its Detroit-style vegan pizzas. Their thick, crispy crusts are topped with innovative plant-based ingredients. The Vegan Mr. Pink features a creamy cashew ricotta and zesty marinara sauce.
Coletta offers a unique Vegan Bruschetta pizza. It combines the classic Italian appetizer with a crisp, thin crust for a fresh take on vegan pizza.
Some pizzerias are experimenting with unconventional toppings. Buffalo Cauliflower “Chicken” pizzas are gaining popularity, mimicking the tangy, spicy flavors of the classic wing-inspired pie.
Vegan Alternatives to Classic Styles
Neapolitan-style vegan pizzas are on the rise. Pizzerias use high-quality ingredients like San Marzano tomatoes and artisanal vegan mozzarella to recreate this traditional style.
The “Grandma Pie” gets a vegan makeover at several New York establishments. These square pies feature a thin, crispy crust with simple toppings like garlic, herbs, and olive oil.
Two Boots offers the “Super Vegan” – a veggie-loaded pie with broccoli, artichoke, and two types of pesto. It’s a prime example of how vegan pizzas can be both nutritious and indulgent.
