Laughing Man Coffee, a coffee chain founded by actor Hugh Jackman, has opened a new vegan location in New York.
Jackman founded Laughing Man to support coffee farmers around the world. He was inspired by a young coffee farmer he met in Ethiopia more than 10 years ago. The chain has two spots in New York, in Tribeca and Battery Park.
Called Laughing V, the new cafe and store is also located in Tribeca. It’s being run by vegan chef Lauren Evans.
Evans is passionate about increasing the number of plant-based options in the area. She caught the attention of Laughing Man’s co-founders David and Barry Steingard when she presented her ideas for a Laughing Man Coffee vegan menu.
Laughing V (which offers classic hearty dishes like vegan macaroni cheese and Philly cheesesteaks, as well as cookies and cakes) is located next door to Laughing Man Coffee.
Vegan food in New York
New York is becoming more vegan-friendly.
Last year, popular coffee chain Gregorys added a new plant-based egg burrito (made with JUST Egg) to its menu. And also in 2021, renowned Michelin Star restaurant Eleven Madison Park ditched meat for good.
Last June, the restaurant re-opened with an entirely plant-based menu.
At the time, chef Daniel Humm said that while he thought the move would be restrictive, it was actually “freeing.”
“It’s time to redefine luxury as an experience that serves a higher purpose and maintains a genuine connection to the community,” he said in a statement.
“A restaurant experience is about more than what’s on the plate. We’re thrilled to share the incredible possibilities of plant-based cuisine while deepening our connection to our homes: both our city and our planet.”