Veggie Haven

While many people think of vegetarianism as a passing fad, its roots go back much further than most people think. Veggie Haven in Denville, N.J., draws on the ancient Buddhist tradition of plant-based diets and provides a fresh take on Asian food.

The discrete restaurant is in downtown Denville and offers window seats, outdoor tables and street parking. The softly lit interior and soft, ambient music add to the relaxing atmosphere. Veggie Haven is completely meat-free, as the menu explains all “meats” are made of soy (tofu or tempeh), mushroom or wheat protein (seitan). They also offer a gluten-free menu and highlight healthy options.

© Veronica An | Veggie Haven

Veggie Haven’s extensive menu can be a bit overwhelming for newcomers or indecisive diners — there are fresh juices, smoothies, bubble tea drinks, appetizers, salads, soups, entrees, sushi and dessert. There are standard items, such as Buddhist Delight or tofu pad Thai, but the restaurant’s real strength is their vegan sushi menu. While the concept of entirely vegan dining may throw some people off, an order of General Tso’s crispy chicken will change most people’s minds.

As most vegetarians know, sushi is usually off-limits or disappointingly lackluster. Veggie Haven offers more than the usual cucumber avocado rolls, they use “meat” to recreate and invent new sushi and sashimi rolls. Try the sweet heart roll — veggie shrimp and avocado, topped with mango; substitute brown rice for $1 extra ($8.95 or $.9.95).

© Veronica An | Veggie Haven

Their delicate, flavorful sushi renditions are enough of a reason to stop by, but order their vegan desserts if you need more convincing. Desserts change daily but tofu ice cream (vanilla almond, wild berry, chocolate or butter pecan) and coconut cheesecake with almond, blueberry or strawberry toppings are almost always available. Visit today and dig in, guilt-free.

Veggie Haven

57 Blomfield Avenue

Denville, N.J. 07834

973 586 7800