Experimental tasting menus, unique vegan options, and a focus on local, queer farmers define this creative culinary gem.
HAGS is a charming and community-focused restaurant in the East Village, helmed by Chef Telly Justice and Camille Lindsley. It's celebrated for its progressive approach, sourcing ingredients from local queer farmers and even sharing its recipes online. Diners can indulge in two distinct contemporary tasting menus: one entirely vegan and the other omnivore. Even those who don't typically opt for vegan meals highly recommend HAGS's vegan tasting menu for its creativity and flavor. The restaurant also offers a unique 'pay-what-you-want' model on Sundays, with seating available on a first-come, first-serve basis. The culinary team excels at showcasing seasonal produce, with memorable dishes like heirloom purple Cherokee tomatoes paired with fava bean emulsion, and a surprising yet delicious chewy corn ice cream with currant jam.
HAGS offers a contemporary American and experimental cuisine with a strong emphasis on seasonal produce. They are known for their unique tasting menus, available in both vegan and omnivore options, with the vegan menu receiving particular acclaim. Dishes often highlight fresh, locally sourced ingredients, with examples like heirloom purple Cherokee tomatoes with fava bean emulsion and a distinctive chewy corn ice cream with currant jam. The restaurant's approach is creative and chef-driven.
"The tempeh dish is specifically recommended, and the vegan tasting menu is highly praised even by non-vegans."
Customers generally have a positive sentiment towards HAGS, often recommending it for its unique and creative dining experience. The restaurant is praised for its commitment to community and openness, including sharing recipes and sourcing from local queer farmers. The tasting menus, particularly the vegan option, are frequently highlighted as exceptional, even for non-vegans. The Sunday pay-what-you-want model is also noted as a unique and appreciated aspect.
Important Note
The restaurant has a unique 'pay-what-you-want' model on Sundays which might require flexibility with pricing.
"The commenter briefly recommends Hags as a dining option."
Neutral"Another user seconds the recommendation for Hags, praising its great tasting menu which is available for both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options."
Positive"A user suggests trying Hags as a potential birthday dinner option."
Neutral"The original poster finds HAGS to be an interesting option."
Positive"A user recommends HAGS in the East Village, noting its 7-course omnivore and vegan tasting menus at different price points, and describes it as a great local, chef-owned space with a highly creative menu."
Positive"The user agrees that HAGS is great, highlighting its queer wine list and recommending the tempeh dish."
Positive"The user recommends HAGS."
Positive"HAGS offers both omnivore and vegan tasting menus by Chef Telly."
Positive"The author recommends HAGs as a restaurant fitting a request for unique contemporary, modern American, or eclectic dining experiences in NYC."
Positive"Recommends Hags if looking for experimental cuisine."
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