One of the best things about living in Hoboken and Jersey City is how accommodating restaurants have become towards plant-based diets and dietary restrictions. Whether you’re looking to incorporate more veggies in your diet or just ready to take the plunge on a new menu item {we know it’s hard to forgo your ‘usual’ — the struggle}, we’ve rounded up the best veggie burgers in Hoboken + Jersey City. And we promise, these are not your momma’s veggie burgers.
Onieal’s — Garden Burger Philly
Located just outside of Church Square Park, Onieals has become one of our go-to spots — with a casual vibe, great food and a solid wine list to boot. What you’d never guess is how unbelievably good their Garden Burger Philly is. Perfectly smothered with sautéed onions and jack cheese served on a fresh baguette, the combo is simple but oh-so-good. But, what really stands out is the flavor of Onieal’s homemade patty, especially when dunked in the horseradish aioli — an absolute MUST. {HG tip: you can swap out any burger for their veggie patty. Veggie Alps burger pictured above.}
Stewed Cow — Veggie Burger Sliders
A rare find, Stewed Cow was one of the first Hoboken restaurants to offer a veggie slider on their menu. After missing out while meatier counterparts basked in the glory of the mechanical bull, ordering one {or two, or three} of these bad boys is like a mini party every time. BONUS: This isn’t written on the menu, but you can actually ask to sub any other burger for a veggie patty. We recommend ‘The Southwestern’. Oh, and did we mention it’s pretty much the heartiest nonmeat burger you’ll ever see?
Moran’s — Portobello Blue
Okay, so this is technically not a veggie burger but their Portobello Blue sandwich is just too good to pass up. This bad boy is packed with fresh veggies, plus blue cheese and pesto. As an added bonus, Moran’s also offers the option to swap out your traditional bun for a gluten-free one. In fact, all gluten free and vegetarian items are clearly marked on their menu. Fun Fact: Moran’s only recently started serving food, and pretty much all of it is to die for. We’re talking high-end delectable food and wine at a more-than-reasonable price. The ambiance is casual and warm, perfect for a cozy date night at the bar or a night out with a group of friends.
Purely Juiced — No Harm No Cow
For those looking to detox and feed your body with nutritionally dense food, Simply Juiced is your go-to. Their No Harm No Cow burger is filled with ingredients your body will thank you for {including sprouted bread, walnuts, romaine lettuce, coconut nectar and nutritional yeast}. We frequent this spot a few times a month when we’re looking for something tasty without breaking the calorie bank. Whether you pair it with one of their fresh squeezed juices or opt for a healthy dessert {hello, chocolate coconut mousse}, their veggie burger is one you can count on to fuel your body and keep you satisfied.
The Shepherd and Knucklehead — The Veggie Burger
Boasting an eclectic menu with something for everyone and every appetite, this newbie has easily made their mark. We love their veggie burger because it strays from the usual ingredients. Simply named ‘Veggie Burger’ don’t be fooled by its O.G. exterior. One bite will reveal fresh veggies, sun-dried tomatoes, polenta and hummus. A lemon wedge adds the finishing touch.
Bareburger – The Guadalupe & The Farmstead
Not only does Bareburger allow you to build your burger from the bun up, but there are two different kinds of veggie patties to choose from: sweet potato and wild rice or black bean. Both are delicious, and with items like sprout buns, collard wraps and vegan cheddar on the menu, Bareburger is pretty much plant-based heaven. Since the combo possibilities are endless, the menu can be a bit overwhelming {so many choices!} for those who are used to only having one vegetarian option at a time. If you can’t decide, we wholeheartedly recommend “The Guadalupe” {and a side of fries, onion rings, and spicy pickles.}
Carpe Diem — Veggie Burger
Anyone who has experienced a dinner special at Carpe Diem knows there’s some serious culinary talent behind the red velvet curtains of this popular Irish pub. Their veggie burger is no different. Set apart by its crunchy exterior, this baby is packed with the classic veggie medley {carrots, peas, corn, etc.} quinoa, potatoes and reminds us a little of a potato pancake. At Carpe Diem, you can substitute any meat patty for a veggie one. Each burger also comes with a wine/beer pairing recommendation. Favorites include the “California Burger” and the “Gruyere and Mushroom Burger.”
White Star Bar — Veggie Burger
There are two locations in Jersey City, and both serve one of the most amazing veggie burgers we’ve ever tasted {which is why it’s on this list}. Let’s just say that although it’s a vegetarian option, it’s anything but light fare. Topped with a classic combo of avocado and chipotle mayo, it makes for a hearty option that we recommend taking advantage 0f — because a little avocado never hurt nobody. TIP: Get the truffle fries. We promise you will not be disappointed.
Wurstbar — Rancho Grande
Not exactly a veggie burger, but trust us — we’ve gone to vegetarian comfort food heaven, and it is in fact at Wurstbar in Jersey City. Since Wurstbar specializes in fine sausages and craft beers, it’s kind of the last place you’d expect to find so many vegetarian options. Any sausage on their menu can be substituted for a veggie sausage, but it gets even better than that. Any poutine {fresh cut fries + cheese curds + gravy — aka: the O.G version of “disco fries”} can be substituted for vegetarian gravy as well. Pair that with one of the many delicious beers on tap and you’ve got yourself a meal. For the wine lovers, there’s also a selection of draft wines. We tried the Rancho Grande with a side of haus poutine and a chardonnay. It made for a pretty amazing meal after a girls’ day bar crawl.
Left Bank Burger Bar — Veggie Burger
We don’t know how they do it, but somehow Left Bank makes the most perfect mouth watering veggie burger that’s crisp on the outside and juicy on the inside. Add-ons include bourbon shrooms, caramelized onions, pickled jalapeños and more. It’s not uncommon for this spot to have a bit of a wait, but it’s totally worth it.
The Ainsworth — Veggie Burger
The Ainsworth’s veggie burger is not your typical veggie burger. This black bean patty is topped with avocado, roasted tomatoes, and garlic puree, totally transforming it from the standard veggie burgers you’re used to.
Tea NJ — The Village Burger
This vegan-friendly restaurant in Jersey City has a variety of veggie burgers on the menu but The Village Burger is one in particular that is a must-try. With a patty made of eggplant, fennel seeds, red beans, bread crumbs, cilantro, garlic, sea salt, and spices, and garnished with pico de gallo and avocado, this burger is a can’t-miss.
The Hamilton Inn — The Veggie Burger
Served with fries or a salad, this black bean, and quinoa burger is topped with pickles, lettuce, pepper jack, and secret sauce on a brioche bun. Sounds pretty good if you ask us.
Northern Soul – Turkey Burger on a gluten-free bun
Think comfort food with a healthy twist. This down-town gem has a laid-back environment, the perfect place for a chill day, or a night out with friends. From a salmon avocado BLT to buffalo cauliflower, there is something healthy for everyone’s pallette.
Vegan AF – Hottie From The Heights Burger
{Photo credit: @thefoundrygirljc}
Vegan AF {which stands for “As F***”- or “Animal Friendly,” as the owners joke} is located at 291 Central Avenue in the Jersey City Heights and opened its doors this year, already becoming a fan-fav. The Hottie From The Heights Burger is served with chipotle BBQ, herbs, spices, beans, and whole wheat crumbs patty, topped with pico de gallo, and chopped avocado. Any burger can be served with a choice of plant-based patty, homemade spicy, and homemade sweet apple, topped all with tomatoes, onions, lettuce, or spinach comes served in a sesame seed hamburger bun and side fries.
These are just a few of the amazing vegetarian options Hoboken has to offer. Got one you love? Comment below!
