ZipPicks Awards
Best Vegan Restaurants in Brooklyn Heights & Downtown Brooklyn
Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Brooklyn Heights & Downtown Brooklyn
Master Critic Review
Next Stop Vegan
8.6
A 100% plant-based Dominican and Caribbean spot in Brooklyn Heights, Next Stop Vegan reworks classics like sancocho, ropa vieja, and birria tacos into boldly seasoned vegan plates. Portions are generous, the room is compact but lively, and the menu balances hearty comfort food with fresher options and rotating specials.
Must-Try Dishes:
Churrasco Mofongo, Ropa Vieja Cubana, Birria Tacos
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Plant-based Dominican and Caribbean dishes with serious flavor and portions.
Who should go: Vegans craving bold Dominican and Caribbean comfort flavors together.
When to visit: Evenings and weekends for lively crowds and fuller signature menu.
What to order: Churrasco Mofongo, Birria Tacos, Ropa Vieja Cubana plate.
Insider tip: Check Taco Tuesday for birria taco deals and rotating specials.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is the norm in Brooklyn Heights; metered spots can be easier to find earlier in the evening, but expect limited availability after 6pm.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable; guests often come dressed in everyday attire, though a slightly polished look works for weekend dinners.
Noise level: Moderate; the compact space gets energetic during peak hours, but conversation is still manageable at most tables.
Weekend wait: 20–35 minutes depending on group size, especially during peak dinner windows.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, with quick turnover and easier seating.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — the entire menu is plant-based, with many hearty, vegetable-forward plates.
Vegan options: Yes — the full menu is 100% vegan, including sauces, proteins, and desserts.
Gluten-free options: Several gluten-free options are available, though not all dishes qualify; staff can guide substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual, fun dates — the food is vibrant and conversation-friendly, though the space is small and can feel lively rather than intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes — walk-ins are common, but weekend evenings may require a short wait. Arriving before 7pm helps secure faster seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for kids comfortable in smaller, energetic spaces; portions are generous and shareable, though there’s limited stroller parking and no dedicated kids’ menu.
Best For
Better for: Boldly seasoned, plant-based Dominican and Caribbean comfort dishes that offer a unique alternative to more standard vegan cafés.
Skip if: You want a quieter, spacious dining room or are looking for a strictly traditional take on Dominican or Caribbean dishes rather than plant-based adaptations.