Vegan cuisine in Harlem and West Village

It is easier than ever to make the switch to a plant-based diet in New York, which has plenty of places for vegans to enjoy a night out. Here is one place in Harlem and another in the West Village.

The owners of the Seasoned Vegan in Harlem are out to prove that there is such a thing as vegan soul food, and it's full of flavor.

When Brenda Beener told friends she planned to open a vegan restaurant in Harlem, most people told her it would never work. But she has proved them all wrong. Open just two and a half years, the place gets tons of locals and celebs. Danny Glover, Ciecly Tyson and Stevie Wonder are all fans -- and for good reason.

Brenda learned how to make delicious vegan food after her husband went vegan cold turkey 20 years ago. The Seasoned Vegan serves up dishes like macaroni and cheese and collard greens but I decided to try a vegan riblet, made from lotus flower and fermented soy.

The vibe is eclectic at Urban Vegan Kitchen on Carmine Street in the West Village. The food makes you wonder why you didn't try vegan sooner. Owner Pamela Elizabeth says being a vegan was an ethical choice for her.

Pamela enjoys proving that vegan food is good for you and your taste buds.