If you know me, you know pizza is what held me back from going vegan sooner. You probably know what I’m talking about — the “I could never give up pizza …” line. So, it’s no wonder I always like to talk pizza these days. Specifically, New York–style pizza.
Perhaps you know it — that classic, thin-crust, foldable, slightly greasy slice that defines the city. As a longtime vegan living in NYC and a serious foodie, I never pass up a chance to try a slice. And while there are a lot of solid spots, Scarr’s Pizza on the Lower East Side is my top pick for a legit vegan New York–style slice.
For starters, Scarr’s isn’t just slinging the best pies; they’re doing it the old-school way with a modern twist. The hot spot mills their own flour in-house (!!) for maximum freshness and quality. The result? A crust that is crispy at the bottom, chewy on the inside, and gets that perfect bubbly char on the edges.
Now, let’s get to the part you’re here for — the Scarr’s vegan pizza. What I love about this slice is that it’s not some soggy slice where everything slides off, leaving you a smear of tomato. Everything about the slice is perfection. Tangy sauce. Cheese that melts and doesn’t stick to your teeth when you bite into it. That crust. Almost all the things that keep this place packed day in and day out.
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You can order it by the slice (just let them know you’re coming so you don’t have to wait for them to make a whole pie to pop in the case) or get a full pie.
My pro tip: if you’ve got nowhere to be after, order up the whole pie. It’s massive and you can freeze the leftovers and cook ’em up later, giving you 10 beautiful slices of pizza to devour whenever you want.
While the menu is definitely meat-heavy overall, Scarr’s has made some moves that make it a standout for vegan diners. Here’s what you can (and should) try:
Vegan Sicilian – Think thick, square crust instead of the NY-round. Sink your teeth in to this version, one you can’t find in Manhattan with a good vegan cheese.
Vegan Caesar – Not the star, but if you want greens with your pie, order the Vegan Caesar. They use a cashew-based creamy dressing and it’s delish.
The only thing I wish they’d add? Vegan slices and a white slice. I know NYC would support it — other vegan-friendly shops like Two Boots have one. So … Scarr’s, if you’re reading this, call me lol.
Scarr’s Pizza, a cult fave, opened in 2016, founded by famed pizzaiolo Scarr Pimentel, a Dominican-American chef who wanted to bring back the quality of the neighborhood pizzerias he grew up with.
What sets them apart is that attention to detail — from the flour to the sauce to the vibes. It’s one of the rare places that’s managed to stand the test of time and keep churning out quality and buzz.
Scarr’s recently expanded with a new, larger location at 35 Orchard St., not far from the original. It has more seating, and a more extensive menu (although same vegan options).
Scarr’s might be my top pick, but it’s not the only game in town. Here are a few more places in NYC where you can grab a proper NY-style vegan slice that doesn’t disappoint:
I’m a huge fan of Paulie Gee’s Slice Shop and whenever I’m in Greenpoint, I make sure to visit. They’ve got vegan slice options, including a killer NY slice with vegan pepperoni with plant-based hot honey (Hellboy and omg is it good), a classic plain, and Sicilian vegan options (but that’s another story). Plus, the vibe and quick service makes it a top pick of mine.
A longtime NYC favorite, Two Boots offers a few standout vegan slices like the “V for Vegan,” which includes artichokes, vegan cheese, and roasted veggies on a cornmeal crust. It’s a different texture than traditional NY-style but worth a try.
This tiny corner spot has NY-style vegan by the slice and pie, covered in crushed tomato sauce and vegan cheese. They’ve also got a vegan, gluten-free option — the vegan Grandma pie.
When omnivore restaurants like Scarr’s make space on the menu for thoughtful vegan options, it pushes the whole industry forward. It shows that plant-based eaters don’t want just a slice — we want the slice. The one with that fold. That flavor and mouthfeel that aren’t always easy to come by when it comes to vegan cheeses. All the vegan pizza spots have closed shop over the years, and being able to support the pizza places that have vegan options is key to keeping these items on the menus.
In a city where everyone has an opinion on pizza, Scarr’s proves that vegan slices can stand up to tradition — and taste damn good doing it.
Like what you see? I love being able to share vegan eats. Could you help me keep sharing — buy me a coffee or slice of vegan pizza?
Are you planning a trip to Las Vegas or looking for vegan eats on The Strip? Here are the most vegan-friendly Las Vegas hotels on The Strip.
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