Chakra

- 317 E 5th St, New York, NY 10003

In the heart of the bustling East Village, Chakra stands out as a true culinary sanctuary. This isn’t your typical New York restaurant; it's a peaceful gem dedicated to serving authentic, homemade vegan Thai dishes. Chakra is more than just a place to eat—it's an experience that encourages you to slow down and savor every bite. The restaurant's philosophy is rooted in a "slow food" approach, where every dish is prepared with care and intention, a refreshing change from the city's fast-paced dining scene. This focus on quality and mindfulness is palpable from the moment you step inside.

Chakra has become a beloved spot for both vegans and non-vegans alike. Customers who don't follow a plant-based diet have been pleasantly surprised by how "delicious this meal was without having to use any meat." The secret to their success lies in their dedication to freshness. The spices are ground in-house daily, and the ingredients are meticulously sourced, ensuring that every dish is packed with vibrant, complex flavors. The menu is a celebration of plant-based wonders, with a variety of offerings that are inspired by traditional Thai cooking while incorporating Indian influences. This fusion of flavors and techniques creates a truly unique and memorable experience.

The atmosphere at Chakra is part of its charm. The interior is cozy and trendy, creating an intimate setting perfect for a dinner date or a solo meal. The restaurant also boasts a "magical" back garden, a hidden oasis that makes you "forget you’re in NYC." It's a perfect spot to enjoy a nourishing meal and unwind from the urban hustle. The friendly and welcoming staff, including a server named Bianca who was praised by a customer as "nice and kind," contributes to the overall peaceful and friendly vibe.

Beyond its delicious food and calming atmosphere, Chakra is committed to inclusivity and catering to a variety of dietary needs. The menu clearly indicates options for a range of preferences, including Thai vegan, gluten-free, SOS-free, fruitarian, Jain, and Swaminarayan dishes. This thoughtful approach ensures that a wide array of diners can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal tailored to their specific requirements. For those seeking a delicious, healthy, and thoughtfully prepared meal in a tranquil environment, Chakra is an East Village destination that should be at the top of your list.

Chakra is conveniently located at 317 E 5th St, New York, NY 10003, USA. Situated in the East Village between First and Second Avenues, the restaurant is easily accessible from various parts of Manhattan. The neighborhood is a hub of activity and charm, filled with a diverse array of shops, bars, and other restaurants.

For those using public transportation, the restaurant is a short walk from several subway stations, including the Astor Place station (6 train) and the 8 St - NYU station (N, Q, R, and W lines). This makes it a great spot for a lunch break or a planned dinner after work. The restaurant also offers several service options for maximum convenience, including curbside pickup, no-contact delivery, and standard takeout. For those who want to dine in, reservations are required to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, especially given the restaurant's cozy and intimate size.

• Dine-in: Enjoy a peaceful and cozy meal in the restaurant's dining room or the enchanting back garden.
• Delivery: Get delicious vegan Thai food delivered right to your door with a choice of standard or no-contact delivery.
• Takeout: Order your favorite dishes for takeout and pick them up at your convenience.
• Curbside Pickup: For a quick and easy pickup, curbside service is available.
• Catering: Chakra provides catering services, which have been praised for being accommodating to various food restrictions.
• Reservations Required: To ensure a peaceful and personal dining experience, reservations are required for dine-in guests.

• Authentic Thai Vegan Cuisine: Chakra specializes in plant-based Thai food, offering vibrant, flavorful dishes inspired by traditional recipes.
• Homemade and Fresh: The restaurant prides itself on making everything from scratch, including grinding spices in-house daily, which customers can truly taste.
• Peaceful Back Garden: A beautiful, hidden outdoor space provides a magical and tranquil setting for dining, making you feel far from the city.
• Diverse Menu Options: In addition to their Thai vegan menu, Chakra offers healthy, organic, fruitarian, Jain, and Swaminarayan dishes, catering to a wide range of dietary needs.
• Great Tea Selection: The restaurant has a notable selection of teas, a perfect way to start or end your meal.
• Cozy and Trendy Atmosphere: The ambiance is casual, cozy, and well-decorated, creating a comfortable and inviting space for all diners.
• Accommodating and Friendly: The staff are known for being friendly and attentive, ensuring a positive dining experience for everyone.

Address: 317 E 5th St, New York, NY 10003, USA

Phone: (929) 462-7272

When you visit Chakra, what's truly worth choosing is the experience of intentional, slow-cooked food. The menu offers a variety of highlights, but a few dishes consistently stand out. The Green Curry is a must-try for any fan of Thai food; customers praise it for being vibrant and thoughtfully prepared. Another excellent option is the Massaman Curry, a savory and rich curry that is a perfect example of the restaurant's Thai-Indian influence. For those who enjoy a noodle dish, the Clay Pot Glass Noodles (Opp Woon Sen) and the Drunken Noodles are both highly recommended and noted for their rich flavors and satisfying textures.

Don't skip the salads, as they are a testament to the restaurant's commitment to freshness. The Papaya Salad and the Green Mango Salad are light, refreshing, and packed with a tangy, spicy dressing that is a perfect balance to the rich curries. For a truly healthy and unique option, explore the fruitarian dishes like the Quinoa Bowl or the Sunshine Bowl, which are flavorful and nourishing. The fact that the restaurant offers a variety of dietary-specific menus (Jain, SOS-free, etc.) means you can find a delicious meal that perfectly fits your needs.

The experience is made complete by the small details. The fresh spring rolls are described as "fresh and flavorful," while the tea selection is a highlight. The peace and tranquility of the space, especially the back garden, makes dining here a special event. Ultimately, Chakra is worth choosing for its authentic, high-quality, and homemade vegan food, served in a peaceful setting that provides a refreshing escape from the city. It’s a perfect place to slow down, nourish your body, and truly appreciate your meal.

Chakra

317 E 5th St, New York, NY 10003, USA