By Alexia Mena, VRG Intern
Located in the heart of the East Village in New York City, Spicy Moon–which also has two other locations in the city, offers a bold and exciting vegan take on traditional Sichuan cuisine that brings comfort to the table. On my recent visit, my friend and I decided to try the lunch special, which allows you to choose a “big bite” and a “small bite,” making it perfect for a well-rounded meal. I ordered the dan dan noodles as my bowl and paired it with vegetable dumplings, and we also added a side of cumin fries to share.
The dan dan noodles were easily the standout dish of the meal. Described as the restaurant’s best seller, the bowl features warm wheat-based noodles coated in a rich combination of homemade chili oil, sweet soy sauce, sesame paste, and sesame oil. The broth was deeply flavorful and slightly spicy, with a creamy texture that clung to every strand of the noodle. Topped with scallions, chunks of cauliflower, eggplant, and chewy tofu, the dish had a perfect balance of heat and spice that made it both bold and addictive at the same time.
For the small bite, the steamed vegetable dumplings arrived neatly arranged in pairs of two and lightly green in color. They were served with a soy based dipping sauce and had a soft, delicate wrapper with a warm vegetable filling inside. Although they were simple compared to the noodles, they added a sheer contrast that really balanced out the richness of the main dish.
Outside of the lunch special, we also ordered the cumin fries, which were crispy fried potatoes tossed in a bold seasoning blend of cumin, pepper, and salt. Served with a side of spicy mayo, they had a strong flavor that stood out immediately. The fries were crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, and the dipping sauce added an extra layer of heat and creaminess that tied everything together.
The atmosphere of the restaurant added to the overall experience, with pink toned lighting and a cozy, loft like vibe. The space was decorated with a mix of traditional and cultural details, including a Chinese New Year dragon display, striped patterns, and floral designs that gave it a rich environment. It felt both modern and warm, creating a comfortable setting that matched the energy of the food. The staff were also welcoming and attentive throughout the visit, offering help with menu questions in regard to different spice levels, and ensuring a smooth dining experience without feeling rushed to order.
Overall, Spicy Moon delivers a vibrant and comforting dining experience that highlights how flavorful vegan Sichuan food can be. From the dan dan noodles to the crispy cumin fries, every dish brought something different to the table, and I would certainly return to explore more of the menu.
Spicy Moon’s Website: https://www.spicymoonnyc.com/
Looking for any other vegan restaurants? Go to VRG’s guide at: https://www.vrg.org/restaurant/index.php