HAGS

- 163 1st Ave, New York, NY 10003

In the world of New York fine dining, where tradition often reigns, HAGS emerges as a refreshing and groundbreaking concept. Located in the East Village, this intimate restaurant is not just a place to eat; it is a full-sensory experience that is proudly and unapologetically queer-identified. It’s a space where every detail, from the art on the walls to the thoughtful menu, is designed to be inclusive and celebratory. As one reviewer eloquently stated, "This was hands-down one of the most exceptional and creatively executed tasting menus I’ve ever had." The food, described as a "masterclass in flavor, texture, and presentation," is a testament to the chef's artistry and commitment to pushing culinary boundaries. HAGS offers a different kind of fine dining, one that prioritizes warmth, intimacy, and a genuine connection with its guests. It's a space that feels personal and innovative, a rare find that, as one guest noted, "trumps a few of the Michelin starred places I have been to" while maintaining a more accessible and welcoming ethos. Whether you're vegan, a lover of great food, or simply looking for a unique and memorable night out, HAGS is a destination that promises to be more than just a meal.

HAGS is located at 163 1st Ave, New York, NY 10003, right in the heart of the dynamic East Village. This area is a hotbed of culinary innovation and cultural activity, making it a perfect backdrop for the restaurant's unique concept. The neighborhood is easily accessible by public transportation, with the L train at 1st Avenue and the F train at Second Avenue both within a short walking distance. This central location makes HAGS a convenient spot for a special dinner, whether you're coming from another part of Manhattan, Brooklyn, or beyond. For those arriving by car, paid street parking is available in the vicinity, though it can be a challenge. The restaurant also makes a point of physical accessibility with a wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating, demonstrating their commitment to being a space for everyone. The small, intimate size of the space itself, with only about 20 seats, adds to the personal and cozy atmosphere, making every guest feel like they're part of a special, exclusive gathering.

HAGS offers a meticulously curated dining experience with a variety of services designed to enhance a patron's visit.

• Dine-in: The core of the HAGS experience is the full dine-in service, which focuses on a multi-course tasting menu. This is a deliberate choice by the chef to provide a cohesive and well-paced culinary journey. The table service is a crucial part of this, with staff who are incredibly knowledgeable and eager to guide guests through the inspiration and elements of each dish, adding a personal and educational layer to the meal.

• Brunch and Dinner: HAGS is a destination for both brunch and dinner. While the dinner service is the flagship offering with its renowned tasting menus, the Sunday brunch is a unique feature. It often operates on a "pay what you can" basis, making the restaurant's exquisite food accessible to a wider community and reinforcing its core values of inclusivity.

• Reservations: Given its small size and immense popularity, dinner reservations are highly recommended at HAGS. The restaurant accepts reservations, which is essential for planning a special evening and ensuring you get a seat at this in-demand spot. This service helps manage the flow of guests and guarantees an intimate experience.

• Bar Onsite: HAGS features a bar, which serves as a great option for solo diners who want to experience the food while also being a space for walk-ins and a la carte service. The bar program is thoughtfully curated by the sommelier and includes a wide variety of alcohol, beer, cocktails, wine, and hard liquor, with a special focus on natural wines from queer winemakers and a full menu of non-alcoholic options.

• Vegan and Vegetarian Options: A major service highlight is the dedicated vegan tasting menu. As reviews confirm, the plant-based menu is not an afterthought but a "masterclass in flavor," and in some cases, even more creative than the omnivore options. This commitment makes HAGS a premier fine-dining destination for both vegans and non-vegans alike.

Several key features make HAGS stand out in New York's competitive fine dining landscape.

• Creative and Thoughtful Tasting Menus: HAGS is known for its inventive and seasonal tasting menus. One reviewer called the menu "creatively executed," with each dish showcasing "unexpected ingredients and bold, vibrant flavors." The menus are not static; they change to reflect what's fresh and in season, ensuring a unique experience with every visit. The existence of both a vegan and an omnivore menu, both of which are given equal creative attention, is a massive highlight.

• Intimate and Cozy Atmosphere: With only about 20 seats, HAGS creates a uniquely intimate and personal dining experience. The atmosphere is described as "cozy" and "trendy," with a vibe that feels more like a chic dinner party than a stuffy restaurant. This small-scale setting allows the staff to be incredibly attentive and conversational, enhancing the personal connection with guests.

• Exceptional Service and Staff: The service at HAGS is consistently praised as being wonderful, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate. The staff, including an all-female chef team, are integral to the experience, walking guests through each course and sharing the inspiration behind the dishes. This high level of personal engagement is a signature of the restaurant.

• Inclusivity and Community Focus: A defining feature of HAGS is its commitment to inclusivity. The restaurant is explicitly queer-owned and operated, and this ethos is woven into its very fabric. From offering pronoun pins to their "pay what you can" Sunday brunches, HAGS is a space that celebrates everyone, creating an environment where all feel welcome, comfortable, and seen. This community-centered approach is a major differentiator in the fine dining world.

• Excellent Desserts: The dessert menu is a highlight, with one review specifically calling out the "great dessert." The creative and satisfying final courses are the perfect conclusion to the extensive tasting menu, leaving a lasting impression on guests.

For those ready to embark on this extraordinary culinary journey, here is the essential contact information for HAGS.

Address: 163 1st Ave, New York, NY 10003, USA

Phone: No public phone number is listed for reservations. Reservations are managed online.

What makes HAGS truly worth choosing in a city filled with fine dining options is its unique blend of culinary excellence and social purpose. The restaurant offers a dining experience that is not only "phenomenal" in terms of flavor and presentation but also deeply meaningful. It proves that fine dining can be both an art form and a welcoming, inclusive space. The meticulously crafted tasting menus, whether omnivore or vegan, are a creative masterclass, with dishes that encourage you to "shut your eyes to taste it." Furthermore, the intimate setting and wonderful service create a personal connection that makes every visit feel like a special occasion. For anyone in New York looking for a dining experience that transcends the ordinary—one that is both a culinary adventure and a celebration of community—HAGS is the perfect choice. As a Michelin Guide-recognized establishment that still maintains a refreshing lack of pretense, it's a testament to a new era of fine dining, proving that great food, a great atmosphere, and a great mission can all come together to create something truly exceptional.

HAGS

163 1st Ave, New York, NY 10003, USA