NYC Restaurants: Superiority Burger
Superiority Burger
Address | 119 Avenue A, New York, NY 10009
A Return to Superiority Burger: A Plant-Based Paradise in NYC
It’s been years since I last visited the original Superiority Burger in New York City, and in that time, the world of plant-based dining has exploded. What was once a niche market had become a full-blown culinary movement, with vegan and vegetarian options popping up on menus everywhere. But Superiority Burger, the brainchild of chef Brooks Headley, has always been ahead of the curve. Known for its inventive, flavorful, and unapologetically plant-based fare, the restaurant’s earned a cult following since its humble beginnings in the East Village. Now, with a new location and a growing reputation as a must-visit destination for vegans and omnivores alike, my wife and I decided it was time to revisit Superiority Burger.
My wife and I have shifted our diets to be primarily plant-based, so Superiority Burger felt like the perfect place to indulge in something both satisfying and aligned with our new culinary habits. The menu, which has always been vegetarian with many vegan options, is a celebration of vegetables, grains, and legumes, crafted with a level of care and creativity that elevates it far beyond the typical veggie burger joint.
We started with the Wintery Chicory Salad, a dish that perfectly encapsulated the season. The base of bitter chicory was balanced by the nutty richness of toasted rice powder and the tangy sweetness of peanut vinaigrette. Each bite was tasty and fresh, with the crunch of the chicory, the creaminess of the dressing, and the subtle heat from a hint of chili creating a harmonious blend of flavors. It was a salad that felt hearty and satisfying, a far cry from the sad, limp greens that so often pass for vegetarian fare.
I oreder the Superiority Burger, the restaurant’s namesake and the dish that had brought us back after all these years. This isn’t your average veggie burger. Made in-house with a blend of chickpeas, quinoa, mushrooms, and a host of other ingredients (including alliums, citrus, and nightshades), it’s a patty that defies expectations. The texture is intentionally squishy, a departure from the dense, dry veggie burgers of yore, and it’s packed with umami-rich flavors that make it deeply satisfying. Served on a soft bun with a smear of spicy mayo, lettuce, and tomato, the Superiority Burger is a study in simplicity and balance. It’s not trying to mimic meat; instead, it celebrates the ingredients for what they are, resulting in a sandwich that’s uniquely delicious.
Lynette ordered tthe Yuba Verde Sandwich, a newer addition to the menu that showcases Headley’s knack for turning humble ingredients into something extraordinary. Yuba, the delicate skin that forms on the surface of soy milk, is the star here, paired with juicy broccoli rabe and a savory, slightly spicy ceci (chickpea) sausage. The combination of textures—the tender yuba, the crisp broccoli rabe, and the hearty sausage—was nothing short of brilliant, and the spicy mayo added a creamy, tangy kick that tied everything together.
The Atmosphere: Cozy, Quirky, and Unpretentious
The new location, while more spacious than the original, retains the same laid-back, quirky charm that made the first spot so endearing. The walls are adorned with playful artwork, and the open kitchen allows you to catch glimpses of the team at work, meticulously assembling each dish. The vibe is casual and welcoming, a place where you can grab a quick bite or settle in for a leisurely meal.
We arrived on a chilly winter afternoon, and the warm, inviting atmosphere was a welcome respite from the cold. The dining room was buzzing with energy, filled with a mix of vegans, vegetarians, and curious omnivores, all drawn in by the promise of something truly special.
The Verdict: A Must-Visit for Anyone Who Loves Food
Superiority Burger is more than just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of plant-based eating at its finest. Every dish is a testament to Brooks Headley’s creativity and skill, showcasing the potential of vegetables, grains, and legumes to be the star of the plate. Whether you’re a committed vegan, a curious omnivore, or somewhere in between, there’s something here for everyone.
What struck me most about our meal was how satisfying everything was. So often, plant-based meals can feel like a compromise, but at Superiority Burger, there’s no sense of sacrifice. The flavors are bold, the textures are varied, and the portions are generous. It’s food that happens to be vegetarian, not vegetarian food that’s trying to be something else.
As we left the restaurant, my wife and I both agreed that Superiority Burger had exceeded our expectations. It was a reminder that plant-based eating doesn’t have to be boring or restrictive—it can be exciting, indulgent, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re craving a burger, a salad, or something entirely unexpected, Superiority Burger delivers in spades.
If you’re in New York City, do yourself a favor and pay a visit to Superiority Burger. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience—one that will leave you rethinking what plant-based food can be.
