Seasoned Vegan, a Harlem Staple, Has Reopened in the East Village

In the bustling culinary landscape of New York City, the loss of a cherished vegan restaurant is deeply felt. However, amidst the ever-evolving dining scene of the city, a beloved gem has found a new home, giving its loyal patrons and newcomers a reason to rejoice. Seasoned Vegan, an iconic establishment known for its delectable plant-based creations, has transformed and returned to the heart of the city, this time in the vibrant East Village.

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After nine years of thriving in Harlem, Seasoned Vegan’s original location closed its doors on April 1, leaving a void in the hearts of many. But, the story doesn’t end there. Mother-and-son restaurateurs Brenda “Chef B” Beener and Aaron Beener refused to let their culinary legacy fade away. They made a triumphant comeback in late August with a fresh concept – Seasoned Vegan Real Quick. This new iteration offers quick-service takeout and delivery, featuring a menu that reimagines some of their most beloved dishes as mouthwatering sandwiches.

On the menu, you’ll find a delightful fusion of flavors, drawing inspiration from New Orleans cuisine. One of the standout offerings is the signature burdock root “crawfish,” which takes center stage as the star of the show. Here, it’s expertly prepared as a fried “protein” and served in a pretzel-bun po-boy, complete with a delectable remoulade sauce.

For those who crave a taste of barbecue goodness, the “craw” sandwich, generously smothered in “bayou BBQ” sauce, is sure to satisfy. Additionally, vegan soy nuggets are available both as a standalone option and piled high on a burger bun. The culinary journey continues with a range of delectable sides, including shoestring fries tossed in Cajun seasoning, and a selection of fair-trade Maine Root sodas. To end your meal on a sweet note, Seasoned Vegan offers a tempting array of housemade organic desserts, including salted-pecan cookies, beet-root cupcakes, and a luscious raw cheesecake crafted from cashews, walnuts, and dates.

For those who prefer a customized dining experience, Seasoned Vegan Real Quick offers several combo options. One standout choice is the “Ol’ Hungry Self” combo, which allows diners to select any sandwich, soy nuggets or fried “craw,” and a side of fries, all for just $22.50.

Seasoned Vegan’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. What began as Brenda Beener’s venture into serving vegan baked goods at a local bakery in 2010 eventually evolved into Harlem’s first full-service vegan eatery, co-founded by Brenda and her son Aaron in 2014. Their dedication to creating flavorful vegan interpretations of classic Cajun dishes quickly garnered a devoted following. Celebrities like Stevie Wonder, India Arie, and Colin Kaepernick were among the restaurant’s loyal fans.

Like many eateries, Seasoned Vegan had to adapt to the challenges posed by the pandemic. This transformation into a takeout and delivery-focused establishment allowed them to continue serving their delicious plant-based cuisine to a wider audience.

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