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“What are the healthiest restaurants in New York?” – that’s the question I most often receive from my community on Instagram and the blog.
Having lived in New York for almost a decade and living and breathing all things acai bowls, matcha and avocado toast, here’s a roundup of my 7 favorite healthy eating spots in New York, plus a few honorable mentions.
Updated in 2026: New York’s healthy food scene is always evolving, so I refreshed this guide with spots that are still thriving and serving some of the most nourishing meals in the city.
Grab your coffee, matcha, or a cup of ceremonial cacao (my personal morning ritual), and let’s dive in.
1. Maman – various locations in NYC, see mamannyc.com
One of the most charming cafés in New York, Maman feels like stepping into a cozy French countryside kitchen in the middle of Manhattan.
The menu leans simple, seasonal and nourishing – think fresh salads, tartines on rustic bread, and beautifully baked pastries. Their avocado tartine with chili flakes and olive oil is a classic, and the seasonal vegetable salads are always fresh and satisfying.
And if you’re in the mood for something sweet, Maman’s famous nutty chocolate chip cookie is legendary for a reason. Pair it with a matcha latte or beautifully crafted coffee and settle into one of their dreamy spaces.
2. INDAY – 1133 Broadway, New York, NY (and other locations) indayallday.com
INDAY is one of my favorite spots for vibrant, nourishing Indian-inspired bowls (with gluten-free options!).
The menu revolves around customizable bowls and signature dishes like Golden Chicken Curry, Charred Chili Chicken, and Tamarind Glazed Salmon, served over rice with seasonal vegetables, pickles, and flavorful sauces.
If you prefer building your own bowl, you can choose a base, add veggies and greens, and top it with one of their curries or proteins. Everything is bold, warming, and surprisingly light – the kind of meal that leaves you energized rather than weighed down.
And don’t skip the drinks. A mango lassi or house-made chai is the perfect finishing touch.
3. Sweetgreen – various locations in NYC & Brooklyn, see sweetgreen.com
Sweetgreen has long been one of my go-to spots for clean, nourishing meals on busy New York days.
Shaking up the concept of fast food, Sweetgreen built its philosophy around farm-fresh ingredients and seasonal vegetables. Their menu rotates throughout the year, but you can always count on vibrant salads and warm bowls built around roasted vegetables, greens, grains and house-made dressings.
I’ve always said they have some of the best kale in New York, and the salads strike that perfect balance of hearty and fresh. It’s the kind of place that makes healthy eating feel effortless – ideal for a quick lunch between meetings or a casual dinner after a long day.
4. Juice Press – various locations in NYC & Brooklyn, see juicepress.com
*vegan
Juice Press is my go-to spot for organic smoothies and nourishing plant-based grab-and-go meals.
SMOOTHIE TIP: Pick up one of their signature smoothies like the Nurse Ginger Greene, or create your own and add my favorite secret menu item: coconut meat. It adds incredible creaminess and healthy fats that leave your skin glowing.
BREAKFAST TIP: If you get the chia pudding or overnight oats, ask for a side of their wild berry jam. It’s heavenly.
LUNCH TIP: Their soups rotate daily and are always nourishing and comforting. Some locations also have salad bars with fresh greens and veggies – the tahini dressing is always a good idea.
5. Bluestone Lane Collective – various locations, see bluestonelane.com
Aussies know their coffee and avocado toast, and Bluestone Lane Collective is living proof.
This beloved Australian café has become an iconic brunch destination in New York. Their gluten-free banana bread, excellent coffee and beautifully plated breakfast dishes make it one of my favorite places to linger over brunch.
They even have the perfect solution for when you can’t decide between savory or sweet: the Brekkie Board, which includes avocado toast alongside a granola bowl topped with fresh berries.
6. The Butcher’s Daughter – various locations, see thebutchersdaughter.com
*vegetarian
The Butcher’s Daughter has an impressive plant-based menu filled with vibrant, vegetable-forward dishes.
Their kale caesar salad with almond parmesan is a classic, and the menu also includes nourishing bowls, juices, smoothies and creative brunch plates that make eating plant-based feel indulgent rather than restrictive.
The juices, elixirs (try the turmeric milk) and acai smoothie are perfection.
7. The Little Beet – various locations, see thelittlebeet.com
The Little Beet is another fantastic option for healthy, satisfying meals built around whole foods and seasonal ingredients.
Their menu centers on gluten-free bowls featuring roasted vegetables, grains and responsibly sourced proteins like salmon or turkey. The combinations are flavorful, balanced and deeply nourishing.
It’s a perfect spot when you want something warm, wholesome and energizing without feeling weighed down.
Honorable mentions:
- Matchaful Café for beautiful ceremonial-grade matcha drinks and adaptogenic lattes.
- Pressed Juicery for Freeze – juice and nut milk-based soft serve with delicious toppings.
- Seed & Mill for at least 20 different kinds of fresh made halva.
- DIG for warm, nourishing casual farm fare.
- Le Pain Quotidien for delicious gluten-free bread.
- Peacefood Café for plant-based sandwiches and soups.
This guide was originally published in 2017 and last updated in 2026.