Strolling through Union Square, a whirlwind of city energy surrounds you. The vibrant atmosphere is infectious, but suddenly, hunger pangs strike. You’re not craving the typical fast-food fix; you desire something nourishing, something that will fuel your body and mind. The question is, with the sheer number of restaurants vying for your attention, where do you even begin to find healthy food near Union Square?
Union Square, a bustling hub in the heart of Manhattan, is a crossroads of commerce, culture, and community. From busy professionals grabbing a quick lunch to tourists exploring the city’s iconic landmarks and students seeking a study break, the area attracts a diverse crowd. This constant influx of people creates a demand for a wide range of dining options, but finding healthy choices amidst the abundance can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.
Fortunately, Union Square boasts a surprisingly diverse and thriving healthy food scene. This guide highlights the top spots, offering everything from vibrant salads and nourishing bowls to flavorful vegan delights, ensuring you can find the perfect healthy meal to power your day. We’ve curated a list of establishments that prioritize fresh, wholesome ingredients and offer options catering to various dietary needs, helping you navigate the culinary landscape and discover your personal healthy food oasis near Union Square.
Before diving in, let’s clarify what we mean by “healthy” in this context. We’re focusing on eateries that emphasize fresh, unprocessed ingredients, balanced nutrition, and offer options for those with dietary restrictions like vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other specialized diets. We’re looking for places where you can feel good about what you’re putting into your body.
The Top Healthy Eateries Around Union Square
Let’s explore some of the best places to grab a healthy and delicious meal in the Union Square area:
Sweetgreen
This popular chain has become synonymous with fresh, customizable salads and bowls. At Sweetgreen, you have the power to create your perfect healthy meal. Choose from a variety of greens, grains, proteins, and toppings, all sourced from local farmers.
Key Healthy Menu Items: The Kale Caesar salad (hold the croutons for a lighter option), the Harvest Bowl (a seasonal favorite), and any of their customizable bowls with quinoa, tofu, and plenty of vegetables.
Dietary Considerations: Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are readily available. They clearly label allergens on their menu.
Why it’s a Good Choice: Sweetgreen emphasizes sustainability and supports local agriculture. It’s a quick, convenient, and customizable option for a healthy lunch or dinner. You can easily control your portion sizes and choose ingredients that align with your dietary needs.
Address & Quick Info: Several locations near Union Square. Price range: $
Dig Inn
Dig Inn, formerly known as Dig, focuses on seasonal, farm-to-table cuisine served in a fast-casual setting. Their menu features a rotating selection of vegetable-forward dishes and sustainably raised proteins.
Key Healthy Menu Items: Their market bowls, featuring a protein of your choice (chicken, salmon, or tofu) and your choice of roasted vegetables. Don’t miss the roasted broccoli with lemon and garlic!
Dietary Considerations: Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are clearly marked.
Why it’s a Good Choice: Dig Inn prioritizes fresh, seasonal ingredients, making it a flavorful and nutritious choice. Their bowls are satisfying and offer a balanced combination of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. It’s a great place to experience the taste of locally sourced produce.
Address & Quick Info: Several locations near Union Square. Price range: $$
Beyond Sushi
For a unique and delicious vegan experience, Beyond Sushi is a must-try. This innovative restaurant reimagines sushi using plant-based ingredients, creating flavorful and visually stunning rolls.
Key Healthy Menu Items: The Spicy Mang roll (black rice, avocado, mango, cucumber, and a spicy vegan mayo), the Mighty Mushroom roll (marinated shiitake mushrooms, avocado, and tofu), and the rainbow-colored vegetable rolls.
Dietary Considerations: Entirely vegan and offers gluten-free options.
Why it’s a Good Choice: Beyond Sushi offers a creative and satisfying way to enjoy plant-based cuisine. Their rolls are packed with flavor and nutrients, making them a guilt-free and delicious choice. It’s perfect for vegans and non-vegans alike!
Address & Quick Info: Located near Union Square. Price range: $$
Juice Generation
If you’re looking for a quick and healthy boost, Juice Generation is a great option. They offer a wide variety of fresh juices, smoothies, and acai bowls, perfect for a pre- or post-workout snack or a refreshing pick-me-up.
Key Healthy Menu Items: The Green Genie juice (kale, spinach, celery, cucumber, apple, and lemon), the Peanut Butter Split smoothie (banana, peanut butter, almond milk, and protein powder), and the acai bowls topped with fruit, granola, and coconut flakes.
Dietary Considerations: Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available.
Why it’s a Good Choice: Juice Generation provides a convenient and healthy way to get your daily dose of fruits and vegetables. Their juices and smoothies are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, and their acai bowls are a satisfying and nutritious treat. Be mindful of sugar content in certain smoothies.
Address & Quick Info: Several locations near Union Square. Price range: $
ABC Kitchen
While not exclusively a “healthy” restaurant, ABC Kitchen, by Jean-Georges Vongerichten, emphasizes locally sourced, organic ingredients and offers a variety of lighter, healthier options on its menu.
Key Healthy Menu Items: The roasted beet salad with ricotta and pistachios, the grilled fish with seasonal vegetables, and the whole wheat pasta with vegetables.
Dietary Considerations: Offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
Why it’s a Good Choice: ABC Kitchen is a more upscale dining experience that prioritizes sustainable and organic ingredients. Their menu offers a balance of indulgent and healthy dishes, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal while staying on track with your health goals.
Address & Quick Info: Located near Union Square. Price range: $$$
The Butcher’s Daughter (Nolita – Short walk)
While slightly further, a short walk to Nolita rewards you with The Butcher’s Daughter, a vegetarian cafe and juice bar that emphasizes seasonal produce and healthy, plant-based dishes.
Key Healthy Menu Items: The avocado toast (a classic!), the spicy kale and black bean tacos, and the variety of fresh-pressed juices and smoothies.
Dietary Considerations: Vegetarian, with many vegan and gluten-free options available.
Why it’s a Good Choice: The Butcher’s Daughter offers a vibrant and flavorful menu featuring innovative vegetarian dishes. Their commitment to fresh, seasonal ingredients makes it a standout choice for health-conscious diners. The ambiance is bright and inviting, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely brunch or lunch.
Address & Quick Info: Nolita location. Price Range: $$
Beyond Restaurants: Embracing the Union Square Greenmarket
Beyond the established restaurants, Union Square offers another fantastic source of healthy food: the Union Square Greenmarket. This bustling market, open several days a week, features a vast array of fresh, seasonal produce from local farmers.
Imagine browsing stalls overflowing with colorful fruits and vegetables, fragrant herbs, and artisanal cheeses. The Greenmarket is the perfect place to stock up on ingredients for a healthy home-cooked meal.
In the spring and summer, you can find vibrant berries, juicy tomatoes, and crisp greens. As the seasons change, the market transforms with autumnal flavors, offering pumpkins, squash, apples, and root vegetables.
Consider these simple meal ideas using Greenmarket ingredients: a colorful salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers; roasted vegetables with herbs and olive oil; or a hearty vegetable soup. The possibilities are endless!
Tips for Navigating the Union Square Food Scene and Staying Healthy
Even with so many healthy options available, it’s still important to be mindful of your choices when eating out. Here are a few tips to help you stay on track with your health goals in Union Square:
Read Menus Carefully: Don’t be afraid to ask questions about ingredients and preparation methods. Look for dishes that are grilled, baked, or steamed instead of fried.
Customize Your Order: Request dressings on the side, swap fries for a salad, or ask for whole-wheat bread instead of white. Small changes can make a big difference.
Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes and avoid overeating. Consider sharing a dish with a friend or taking leftovers home.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it often.
Plan Ahead: Before heading out, research healthy options near Union Square and decide what you want to eat. This will help you avoid impulsive decisions and make healthier choices.
Don’t Deprive Yourself: Allow yourself to enjoy treats in moderation. Depriving yourself completely can lead to cravings and overeating later.
Conclusion: Your Healthy Culinary Adventure Awaits
Union Square offers a surprisingly abundant landscape of healthy food options. From customizable salads and nourishing bowls to innovative vegan cuisine and fresh produce from the Greenmarket, you’ll find plenty of ways to fuel your body and mind. The key is to be mindful of your choices, explore the diverse culinary offerings, and prioritize fresh, wholesome ingredients.
So, the next time you’re in Union Square and craving something good for you, ditch the processed snacks and explore these fantastic healthy options. Embrace the flavors, nourish your body, and discover your new favorite healthy food spot. Your body (and taste buds) will thank you for it!
What are your favorite healthy eateries near Union Square? Share your recommendations in the comments below!
