Eating GF/DF in NYC
July 21, 2019
New York City has always been one of my favorite places to visit. Whether I’m there for work or just a fun weekend, it never gets old. There are so many great things to do and see, and the fast-paced vibe is second to none. If you follow my Instagram stories while I’m there you’ll see LOTS of workouts and a whole lot of eating. But let’s be real, the best part of NYC has got to be the food. Within the hustle and bustle of each neighborhood you’ll find some really great bars and restaurants that just don’t compare to anywhere else. My inner foodie gets so excited to eat my way around town knowing that there’s always going to be new amazing concepts to try. But what’s even better is that I’m always able to find places that are healthy AND food allergy friendly, since I don’t eat diary and my boyfriend has Celiac (no gluten or dairy). If I’m indulging or eating clean, here’s a few of my all-time favorite GF/DF places to nosh:
Midtown East – 204 E 43rd St
If you’re looking for some amazing sushi, look no further. Compared to Nobu, it doesn’t have the sceney vibe or the fun cocktails. It’s a much more traditional, low-key space with extremely fresh dishes. A great spot for an intimate date night but also perfect for friends and family. We like to order a bunch of different sushi rolls to get a taste of everything. Each piece of sushi is incredibly fresh and flavorful. Once you dine at Sushi Yasuda, you won’t want to settle for the place-to-be-seen spots around town with mediocre sushi.
Upper East Side – 1236 Lexington Ave
I found this gem on Instagram before heading up for a weekend in NYC last year. I happened to be staying uptown that trip so this heavenly bakery was just a few blocks away. It’s COMPLETELY dairy and gluten free, which is unheard of here in South Florida. The cake slices are moist and delicious, and the cookies are gooey in the middle. I don’t think there’s one baked good on the menu that isn’t amazing. Do I recommend eating sweets all the time? Of course not. But an occasional weekend GF/DF brownie straight out of the oven is definitely LivFitness approved.
Multiple locations downtown
A brunch staple (insert hands up emoji). Although at certain times it can be tough to get a seat, it’s definitely worth a 20 minute wait. This relaxed Mediterranean restaurant with locations in SoHo, WV, and Chelsea is popular for a reason. My favorite dish on the menu is Maya’s Breakfast Bowl. A hearty and healthy bowl with warm eggs, kale, squash, quinoa, and roasted tomato. SO yummy.
Nolita + WV
I first discovered this place while in LA, but it’s even better in NYC. I love that the menu is very specific in terms of what has gluten, dairy, and soy. Most items can easily be made gluten free. The juices and acai owls are all amazing and fresh. For a more filling breakfast or lunch, I like to go with the Mexican Breakfast Bowl or the Juevos Locos.
All over NYC
Out of all of the salad joints in NYC, Sweetgreen is my favorite. I can always count on a great SG salad for a simple lunch or dinner. I create my own salad with is normally kale or romaine with chicken, avocado, tomato, onion, and any other vegetable I’m in the mood for that day. Most of their dressings are dairy free and a few are gluten free (my favorite is cilantro lime!). If all else fails, simple olive oil and vinegar for the win. You just can’t go wrong with a crunchy bowl of greens!
