The West Village in New York City is known for its charming streets, vibrant culture, and diverse culinary scene. For those seeking healthy and delicious dining options, this neighborhood offers a variety of restaurants that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. This article explores some of the best healthy restaurants in the West Village, providing insights into their menus, ambiance, and overall dining experience.
Farm-to-Table Freshness at Market Table
Located at the corner of Carmine & Bedford, Market Table embodies the essence of farm-to-table cooking combined with the energy of New York City. The restaurant boasts airy dining rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows that capture the spirit of village life. The bar is perfect for after-work cocktails, and the patio offers some of New York’s most charming outdoor dining.
Celebrity Chef Mike Price draws inspiration from his Maryland farm roots to craft seasonal American cuisine that is fresh, local, and flavor-packed. Market Table is an ideal spot for those seeking a refined dining experience with a focus on healthy, seasonal ingredients.
Australian Cafe Culture at Little Ruby’s Cafe
Since 2003, Little Ruby’s Cafe has been a staple in New York City, bringing Australian cafe culture to the forefront. With a focus on approachable all-day fare, specialty drinks, and a full coffee program, Little Ruby’s is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner seven days a week.
The West Village location, situated on the landmark corner of West 4th St & 7th Avenue, features an airy, multi-level space. It offers a full bar with an exclusive cocktail program alongside the classic menu, with new dishes unique to this location. Guests can enjoy the energy of the neighborhood from the expansive terrace and sweeping windows while enjoying their morning breakfast or cocktails and dinner with friends. Little Ruby’s menu includes signature burgers, pastas, salads, and brunch classics, making it a versatile choice for various dietary preferences.
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Mediterranean Flavors at Rosemary’s West Village
Rosemary’s West Village offers a warm and inviting atmosphere inspired by the Italian countryside. Located steps from Washington Square Park and the Jefferson Market Garden, this restaurant is known for its cozy ambiance, light-filled dining room, and rooftop garden where many of the herbs and produce are grown.
Chef Michael Han's seasonally driven menu celebrates simple, fresh ingredients with standout dishes like the truffle focaccia, handmade orecchiette pasta with sausage, and Risotto alla Milanese. Rosemary’s offers a heartfelt, farm-to-table experience that captures the spirit of community and the beauty of simple, seasonal Italian cooking. It's a must-visit for locals and visitors alike, whether for a glass of wine, a leisurely brunch, or a celebratory dinner.
Little Owl: A Neighborhood Gem
Celebrating nearly two decades in Greenwich Village, Little Owl offers bold Mediterranean cuisine with friendly yet professional service. The menus change with the seasons and feature daily specials and Little Owl classics. This corner gem is located at 90 Bedford St. and offers an ideal background for a special occasion or a business meeting during lunch. Brunch has an upbeat vibe, serving interesting twists on the classics.
Pera Soho: A Mediterranean Delight
Pera Soho is a Mediterranean restaurant that emphasizes healthy eating. It uses a variety of Mediterranean ingredients and cooking methods to create signature dishes. The restaurant has outdoor seating with a heated and fan-equipped courtyard for a comfortable dining experience. Reviewers praise the restaurant for its delicious and flavorful food, with options catering to various dietary needs, including gluten intolerance and veganism.
Other Notable Options
While the restaurants above offer distinct healthy dining experiences, several other establishments in and around the West Village are worth exploring:
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- Soothr: Located in the East Village, Soothr is a Thai restaurant that focuses on generational family recipes, particularly noodle dishes from throughout Thailand. It offers a culinary experience geared towards the comfort and warmth of dining at home.
- The Smith: With multiple locations, including one in the East Village, The Smith is a casual American brasserie that features bistro classics, seasonal fare, and craft cocktails. It's a great option for a casual yet satisfying meal.
- Casa Mono: Situated in Union Square, Casa Mono is a Michelin-starred tapas bar restaurant inspired by the cooking of Spain’s Costa Brava. It offers a range of flavorful and healthy small plates.
- Catch New York: Located in the Meatpacking District, Catch New York combines its seafood and sushi program with Catch Steak's steak program. The menu features signature dishes served in a shareable style, offering a lively atmosphere and rooftop dining with panoramic views of the city skyline.
Restaurants Slightly Further Afield
- Atla: The sister restaurant of Cosme, Atla serves flax-seed chilaquiles, and the bright space is good for a daytime meal, although it’s also open for dinner. Plan a lunch meeting here when you don’t want to weigh yourself down for the rest of the day. Or, if you have a stressful morning and the only thing that will help is a breakfast burrito, they have one that’s pretty great (add the avocado).
- abcV: At abcV, Jean-Georges’ vegetarian restaurant in Flatiron, the plant-forward food is bright and beautiful.
Tips for Healthy Dining in the West Village
- Check the Menu in Advance: Many restaurants post their menus online, allowing you to review the options and plan your meal ahead of time. Look for dishes with lean proteins, whole grains, and plenty of vegetables.
- Ask About Modifications: Don't hesitate to ask your server about modifying a dish to suit your dietary needs. Many restaurants are willing to accommodate requests such as substituting ingredients or adjusting portion sizes.
- Opt for Grilled or Baked: When choosing protein options, opt for grilled or baked preparations instead of fried. This can significantly reduce the amount of unhealthy fats in your meal.
- Load Up on Vegetables: Make vegetables the star of your meal by ordering salads, vegetable-based side dishes, or entrees that feature a variety of colorful produce.
- Be Mindful of Sauces and Dressings: Sauces and dressings can often be high in calories, sugar, and unhealthy fats. Ask for them on the side so you can control the amount you use.
- Consider Portion Sizes: Be mindful of portion sizes, especially when dining out. Consider sharing an entree with a friend or ordering a smaller portion to avoid overeating.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout your meal to help you feel full and satisfied.
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