Best Vegan Breakfast in NYC

Looking for the best vegan breakfast in NYC? You’ve found it. At Tompkins Square Bagels, nearly every bagel on the menu is vegan - each one hand-rolled, kettle-boiled, and baked fresh daily for that authentic New York chew. With four Manhattan locations and a growing lineup of plant-based offerings, it’s a spot that proves you can enjoy true NYC bagel craftsmanship without compromise.

Here’s why Tompkins Square Bagels stands out as one of the best vegan-friendly breakfast spots in New York:

Vegan-Friendly Bagels: Nearly all bagels are vegan - every flavor except Egg and French Toast. Enjoy classics like Plain, Everything, Sesame, Cinnamon Raisin, Multigrain, and Whole Wheat, all hand-rolled, kettle-boiled, and baked fresh daily.
House-Made Tofu Spreads: Choose from a rotating selection of about a dozen tofu-based cream cheeses made in-house with fresh local produce - including Spinach Artichoke, Mixed Berry, Sun-Dried Tomato, Tofu Scallion, and Tofu Lox.
Gluten-Free & Nut-Free Options: Tompkins Square Bagels was the first in NYC to offer gluten-free bagels that are also vegan, nut-free, and non-GMO.
Nut & Seed Butters + Farm Jams: Go sweet or savory with almond, cashew, or sunflower butter, or try Beth’s Farm jams and butters like apple and pumpkin - all perfect on a warm cinnamon raisin bagel.
Breakfast Sandwiches: Try the Beyond Delight, featuring Just Egg, Beyond Meat, and vegan cheddar on your choice of bagel.
Convenience: Multiple locations in Manhattan and online ordering make it easy to grab your breakfast.

Finding Vegan Options in NYC's Breakfast Scene

Hunting down a truly vegan bagel in NYC can feel like a quest. Sure, the city has no shortage of breakfast spots, but finding one that stays true to traditional bagel-making methods while offering genuine plant-based options? That’s where things get tricky.

The challenge often starts with the ingredients. Many bagel shops quietly add non-vegan elements like eggs, milk, whey, or honey - sometimes using honey as a glaze or milk to achieve that soft, chewy texture. Even when the dough itself is technically vegan, cross-contact is another concern. In the fast pace of Manhattan kitchens, bagels can share trays, boiling water, or utensils with non-vegan items - something strict plant-based eaters are keenly aware of.

Then there’s the topping dilemma. Classic pairings like lox, butter, and traditional cream cheese are off the table for vegans. While some shops offer plant-based cream cheese, it’s often limited, prepackaged, or inconsistently labeled - leaving customers with more questions than confidence.

That’s exactly where Tompkins Square Bagels stands apart. Every detail of their process - from hand-rolling and kettle-boiling to clear labeling and dedicated vegan options - reflects care and authenticity. Nearly every bagel they make is vegan (only the Egg and French Toast flavors contain animal products), and they go above and beyond to accommodate plant-based eaters.

Their menu features an ever-rotating lineup of house-made tofu cream cheeses, crafted in small batches with fresh local ingredients, along with creative vegan sandwiches like the Beyond Delight. The result is a shop that blends classic NYC craftsmanship with modern, inclusive offerings - proving you don’t have to sacrifice tradition for taste.

How Tompkins Square Bagels Makes Vegan Bagels

At Tompkins Square Bagels, the process begins with traditional craftsmanship. Every bagel is hand-rolled, kettle-boiled, and baked fresh throughout the day - absolutely no shortcuts here. This classic approach is what gives their bagels that chewy texture and authentic NYC bite that locals love.

The hand-rolling ensures each bagel has the ideal density and shape. Then, the bagels take a quick bath in boiling water, a key step that creates their shiny exterior and soft, chewy interior. Finally, they’re baked in small batches, so you're often enjoying a bagel that's still warm from the oven. This careful attention to detail is what makes their vegan-friendly options just as satisfying as the originals.

What makes this process even more special? Nearly every flavor at Tompkins Square Bagels is 100% vegan - all except for Egg and French Toast. The classics like Plain, Everything, and Sesame are naturally plant-based, while options like Whole Wheat, Cinnamon Raisin, and Multigrain bring even more variety to the table.

The Everything bagel is a crowd favorite, topped with a bold mix of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and coarse salt - a savory powerhouse that pairs perfectly with any of their house-made tofu cream cheeses. For something sweet, the Cinnamon Raisin delivers just the right balance of chewy and fragrant, while the Multigrain offers a hearty, wholesome option.

By sticking to traditional methods, Tompkins Square Bagels ensures that vegan customers don’t have to compromise on quality or flavor. The result? A bagel experience that’s as authentic as it is animal-product-free.

And here’s the best part - fresh batches are baked multiple times a day. That means you’re not just getting a great bagel; you’re getting one at its absolute freshest. This dedication to quality and freshness is what sets Tompkins Square Bagels apart in Manhattan’s crowded breakfast scene.

Top Vegan Sandwiches at Tompkins Square Bagels

Tompkins Square Bagels serves up vegan breakfast sandwiches that bring bold flavors, satisfying textures, and the classic New York bagel experience to the table.

The Beyond Delight stands out as their signature vegan creation. This sandwich features a delicious combination of Just Egg, Beyond Meat, vegan Stockeld Cheddar, and a kick of sriracha, all nestled on a freshly baked bagel. The Just Egg mimics the soft, scrambled texture you'd expect, while the Beyond Meat delivers a hearty protein boost. Add in the creamy Stockeld Cheddar and the spicy zing of sriracha, and you've got a flavor-packed bite. Whether you go for an Everything bagel for an extra layer of seasoning or keep it simple with a Plain bagel, this sandwich hits the spot.

For those who lean toward vegetarian options, The Salino includes eggs, but can be made fully vegan with the "just eggs" option. This customization ensures a plant-based alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor or satisfaction.

Every sandwich starts with the foundation of a perfectly baked bagel, known for its chewy texture and robust flavor. Plus, you can customize your sandwich with a variety of spreads and toppings to make it uniquely yours. This attention to detail and flavor extends to their impressive lineup of tofu cream cheeses and spreads, which are worth exploring.

These sandwiches capture the essence of a traditional New York bagel shop while embracing modern, plant-based innovation. And they set the stage for the next highlight of Tompkins Square Bagels - its legendary tofu cream cheeses.

Tofu Cream Cheeses and Vegan Spreads

Pairing perfectly with their signature vegan bagels and breakfast sandwiches, the tofu cream cheeses and vegan spreads at Tompkins Square Bagels complete the quintessential New York bagel experience. These aren’t just substitutes for traditional cream cheeses - they’re crafted in-house with fresh, local produce to deliver the rich, satisfying flavor you’d expect from an authentic NYC deli.

The shop rotates through a dozen small-batch tofu spreads, each made fresh daily for unbeatable texture and taste. Classic flavors like Tofu Plain, Tofu Scallion, Tofu Veggie, and Tofu Sun-Dried Tomato bring that familiar creaminess bagel lovers crave. The Tofu Scallion is a customer favorite - sharp, savory, and perfect on an Everything or Sesame bagel.

For those looking to explore beyond the classics, Tompkins Square Bagels also serves specialty flavors that stand out from the crowd. The Spinach Artichoke and Mixed Berry tofu spreads bring unexpected depth - one rich and savory, the other sweet and vibrant. The Tofu Lox delivers a smoky, briny nod to the iconic New York bagel pairing, while Garlic Herb adds aromatic balance to a warm, freshly baked Plain bagel.

But the vegan-friendly options don’t stop there. Tompkins Square Bagels was among the first in NYC to introduce nut and seed butters - including almond, cashew, and sunflower - along with Beth’s Farm jams and butters like apple and pumpkin. Whether you’re in the mood for savory or sweet, these spreads transform any bagel into a full-on breakfast experience.

Every spread is made in-house, every day, ensuring quality and consistency across all four Manhattan locations. These tofu cream cheeses and vegan spreads aren’t just alternatives — they’re a celebration of flavor and craftsmanship that keeps NYC locals coming back for more.

What Makes Tompkins Square Bagels Popular with Vegans

Tompkins Square Bagels has mastered the art of crafting bagels, but it doesn’t stop there. It’s a haven for anyone seeking plant-based options, offering a warm, inviting atmosphere where everyone feels welcome - whether you’re fully vegan, curious about exploring vegan choices, or just craving a classic New York bagel.

The moment you walk in, you’re greeted by the quintessential NYC deli vibe. The place hums with energy, yet maintains a cozy, laid-back feel - ideal for catching up with friends or enjoying a quiet breakfast with family.

What sets this spot apart is the service. Customers often rave about the friendly and efficient staff who make the experience even better. Whether you’re grabbing a tofu cream cheese bagel or a vegan breakfast sandwich, the speedy service ensures you’re in and out without missing a beat - perfect for New Yorkers on the go.

With locations on 2nd Avenue, East Village, Union Square, and the Upper East Side, Tompkins Square Bagels is always close by. And if you can’t swing by in person, their online ordering system makes it easy to enjoy a fresh vegan breakfast at home.

These thoughtful touches make Tompkins Square Bagels a go-to destination for a memorable vegan breakfast in NYC.

Visit Tompkins Square Bagels for Your Vegan NYC Breakfast

When you're on the hunt for the best vegan breakfast in NYC, Tompkins Square Bagels has you covered with its authentic NYC bagel texture and a lineup of plant-based options that deliver on both flavor and variety.

Treat yourself to standout vegan creations like the Beyond Delight and The Salino, paired with their house-made tofu cream cheeses. From the classic Plain to unique blends like Spinach Lox and Olive Pimento, there’s something to satisfy every craving. These carefully crafted options make every bite a delight.

Convenience is another reason to love Tompkins Square Bagels. With four Manhattan locations - in the East Village, Union Square, 2nd Avenue, and the Upper East Side - you’re never far from a fresh vegan breakfast. Plus, you can order online to skip the line, ideal for those busy mornings when time is tight.

Whether you’re grabbing a quick bagel on your way to work or enjoying a relaxed weekend breakfast, Tompkins Square Bagels ensures you don’t have to compromise on the authentic NYC bagel experience. Stop by early for the best selection, or place an online order to have your favorite vegan combo waiting for you.

For a plant-based breakfast in NYC that blends classic New York charm with creative, vegan-friendly twists, Tompkins Square Bagels is the perfect spot to kick-start your day.

FAQs

What makes Tompkins Square Bagels the best spot for vegan bagels in NYC?

Tompkins Square Bagels brings the classic New York bagel experience into the modern era with a thoughtful plant-based twist. Every bagel is hand-rolled, kettle-boiled, and baked fresh daily, creating that perfect chewy texture and golden crust NYC is known for. Nearly all of their bagels are vegan-friendly - including favorites like Plain, Sesame, Everything, Whole Wheat, and Cinnamon Raisin.

What truly sets them apart are the flavor-packed vegan sandwiches and spreads. The Beyond Delight features Just Egg, Beyond Meat, and Stockeld Cheddar on a freshly baked bagel, while The Salino combines Beyond Meat, avocado, and a creamy tofu scallion spread. Their lineup of house-made tofu cream cheeses - including flavors like Scallion, Sun-Dried Tomato, and Tofu Lox - offers delicious dairy-free options that feel just as indulgent as the originals. Whether you’re vegan or simply exploring better breakfast options, Tompkins Square Bagels is a must-try in Manhattan.

How does Tompkins Square Bagels ensure their vegan options are prepared without cross-contact with non-vegan ingredients?

At Tompkins Square Bagels, we go the extra mile to serve our vegan customers with care and attention. We’ve put in place strict preparation practices, such as using dedicated utensils, cutting boards, and prep areas for vegan ingredients whenever possible, to reduce the chances of cross-contact.

That said, it’s important to note that our kitchen isn’t entirely vegan. If you have any specific concerns or requests, our staff is always available to chat and help tailor your meal to your preferences. Your satisfaction is our priority!

What vegan breakfast sandwiches can I try at Tompkins Square Bagels, and what makes them special?

Tompkins Square Bagels has carved out a niche for itself with its mouthwatering vegan breakfast sandwiches that don’t skimp on flavor or satisfaction. Two top picks among customers are the Beyond Delight and The Salino. The Beyond Delight combines Just Egg, Beyond Meat, Stockeld Cheddar, and a touch of Sriracha, all tucked into one of their freshly baked bagels. The Salino, on the other hand, layers Beyond Meat, egg, avocado, tofu scallion spread, and sprouts for a hearty, plant-based start to your day.

Want to mix things up? You can opt for the "Sub Beyond Meat" option on other sandwiches, giving you the freedom to tailor your meal just the way you like it.

Best Vegan Breakfast in NYC