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Vegan Szechuan

Spicy Moon

East Village, New York, NY 📍 Maps

Spicy Moon, founded in 2019 by June Kwan, is a vibrant, unapologetically flavorful vegan Szechuan spot that started as a tiny 20-seat storefront in the East Village and has since expanded to four Manhattan locations. The Bowery location, in particular, is a neon-wonderland that could moonlight as a nightclub, complete with purplish-pink tinted dining halls, DJs, and drag queens, alongside a brewhouse crafting gluten-free beers. It's the kind of place where every bite wakes you up, and the atmosphere is as bold and playful as the food itself.

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★ The Legend
Dan Dan Noodles 担担面
These warm flour noodles are the restaurant's best-seller and most authentic noodle dish, coated in a rich, homemade chili oil, sweet soy sauce, creamy sesame paste, and fragrant sesame oil. The sauce masterfully balances spice, sweetness, richness, and umami, making it a standout noodle dish in NYC, vegan or otherwise.
◆ Fan Favorite
Wontons in Chili Oil 素红油抄手
Delicate steamed vegetable wontons, filled with glass noodles, wood ear mushrooms, and five-spice tofu, are served swimming in a fiery chili oil sauce. Regulars consistently praise these for their perfect balance of heat and savory depth, often ordering them alongside the Dan Dan Noodles.
● Chef's Pick
Peppercorn Brussel Sprouts 花椒甘藍球
This dish is a personal favorite of founder June Kwan, featuring crispy flash-fried Brussels sprouts tossed in fragrant Szechuan peppercorn oil. The peppercorn oil delivers that signature numbing 'mala' sensation, perfectly complemented by a fresh lemon wedge.
◇ Hidden Gem
Crispy Eggplant 脆茄子
Many first-timers overlook this small bite, but regulars rave about the six delicately panko-encrusted and fried eggplant pieces, topped with crispy shallots and scallions. It's a textural marvel, perfectly cooked to be tender inside with a light, super crispy exterior, and served with a side of spicy mayo.
Insider Tip

First-timers often miss the opportunity to customize their spice level, assuming 'Spicy Moon' means one-size-fits-all heat. Instead, ask your server for a specific spice level (they often offer a scale from 1 to 9) or request a side of chili oil. This ensures your meal is perfectly tailored to your palate, allowing you to fully appreciate the nuanced Szechuan flavors without being overwhelmed.

Every restaurant has its legendary dishes.

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