Vegan NYC: Paris Café TWA Hotel
There’s something magical about the moment when a trip truly begins—and for us, that moment now lives at the TWA Hotel at JFK. What started as a convenient pre-flight stay has become a cherished tradition, a ritual pause before we take off for our winter break travels. Stepping into the TWA Hotel feels like slipping back into the 1960s, with its swooping architecture, retro lounges, and Mad Men–era glamour. Add twinkling Christmas décor, vintage holiday music, and the hum of anticipation from travelers passing through, and it becomes the perfect kickoff to vacation mode.
A key part of this tradition is dinner at Jean-Georges’ Paris Café, located inside the hotel. It’s our way of slowing down, toasting the journey ahead, and savoring one last meal in New York before heading somewhere warm. This year, we decided to experience Paris Café through a vegan lens—and were genuinely excited to see how a classic, French-inspired restaurant could rise to the occasion.
Vegan in NYC doesn’t always mean casual or predictable, and Paris Café proved that plant-based dining can be elegant, celebratory, and deeply satisfying. From the setting to the menu, it was a reminder that travel—and the rituals around it—can continue to evolve, without losing any of the joy.
Roasted Cauliflower
The roasted cauliflower was the kind of dish that quietly steals the spotlight. Perfectly tender with caramelized edges, it carried a warm, earthy depth that paired beautifully with the golden turmeric tahini. The sauce was silky and aromatic, adding both richness and brightness without overwhelming the vegetable itself. Nestled alongside fluffy couscous, the dish felt balanced and satisfying—comforting yet refined. Each bite offered a thoughtful mix of texture and spice, proving that simple ingredients, when treated with care, can feel indulgent. It was a standout vegan plate that felt right at home in a celebratory, travel-ready meal.
Vegetable and Crushed Tomato Pizza
The Vegetable and Crushed Tomato pizza was vibrant, rustic, and deeply satisfying. A crisp yet chewy crust set the stage for a bright, slow-simmered tomato base that tasted fresh and balanced. Tender roasted eggplant and zucchini added richness and body, while fragrant basil brought a pop of herbaceous freshness. A gentle sprinkle of chili flakes delivered just enough heat to keep each bite lively without overpowering the vegetables. Simple, honest, and full of flavor, this pizza showcased how plant-forward cooking can feel both comforting and elevated—perfect for sharing as the evening eased us into vacation mode.
French Fries
No matter how thoughtfully we order, the French fries are a side we simply can’t resist. Perfectly crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside, they arrive hot, golden, and showered with fragrant herbs that make them impossible to ignore. They’re the kind of fries meant for lingering at the table—picked at between bites, shared casually, and always finished. Simple yet indulgent, they add a playful, comforting note to the meal, grounding the experience in something familiar and satisfying. Some traditions are worth keeping, and ordering the fries is absolutely one of them.
Paris Café at the TWA Hotel proves that vegan dining in NYC can be both convenient and genuinely memorable. Whether you’re staying overnight before an early flight, easing into vacation mode, or simply looking for a thoughtfully prepared plant-based meal near the airport, this spot delivers on both atmosphere and flavor. The setting alone—midcentury design layered with seasonal charm—makes it feel special, but it’s the food that keeps us coming back.
For travelers, it’s an ideal option during a layover when time is limited but expectations are still high. For locals, it’s a surprisingly perfect place to wait while greeting an arriving guest, offering a comfortable, stylish space to linger without feeling rushed. The vegan-friendly dishes feel intentional rather than afterthoughts, showcasing vegetables in a way that’s satisfying, balanced, and celebratory.
What we love most is how seamlessly Paris Café fits into so many moments: the start of a trip, the pause between flights, or a simple reason to meet at the airport. It turns what’s usually a transitional space into a destination of its own. For anyone seeking elevated vegan fare in an unexpected setting, Paris Café at the TWA Hotel is absolutely worth the stop.
