Souen

In support of vegetarian/macrobiotic ethics, I have eaten at Souen 15+ times over the years (including the former location of Souen). The past two visits to the East Village Souen have been worse than ever. I am writing this only in hopes the owner reads this and takes the feedback to heart and improves the restaurant, as there was not other tactful way to provide feedback. Souen seems to be resting on its laurels and going down in quality, unfortunately. They need to improve food ingredients, freshness, quality, taste and preparation to retain their macrobiotic fans and draw veggie diners. Sadly the tempeh was gross: inedible block of sawdust, way worse than you can do yourself with store-bought/coop-bought tempeh and literally left a bad taste in my mouth. Could not get past the first nibble. Tempeh is supposed to have texture of soybeans and a clean tasted that absorbs flavors from the soup. This was a block that did not absorb any flavor. I suggest changing tempeh suppliers and improving cooking technique. The cookie my friend ordered for dessert (wrapped in a plastic wrap, not appetizing) was sooo dry, and not on purpose. (Not supposed to be dry and crunchy.. it tasted old and dry. Friend did not eat it.) The soups are OK but nothing stands out; didn't want to finish mine and didn't want to eat the leftovers later. Just not appetizing. The noodles tasted like store-bought ramen, again nothing special deserving of going to a macrobiotic restaurant, and you can get better store bought ramen from the better brands like Lotus. In fact, Souen should get wayyy better ingredients for tempeh, noodles, etc and indicate sources on their menu. (I'd go to a place that stated "Tofu from XYZ organic tofu, tempeh from ABC tempeh coop, etc. This Souen is not that kind of place anymore.) The added salmon was dry. Salmon could have saved the dish but.. overcooked, dry, not tasty. The veggies in the soup were fine (can't mess up kale). Another customer complained their soup lacked taste and asked for sauce, condiments, anything to assist it.. Staff was not super helpful. The service was too laid-back (server was surfing on his phone; answered questions about ingredients that may cause allergy with "I don't know" instead of "I'll ask the kitchen."). Kitchen mixed up a simple order. There are no prices printed on the paper menus. I am sad to write this but my Souen visits are over unless they big time refresh their ingredients, cooking, and service to line up with true macrobiotic, organic values. Please serve up fresh delish clean food once again. I'd LOVE to support a macrobiotic restaurant in NYC .. but Souen is missing the mark. .

the only og, old school health food spot left in the ev—i’m so grateful souen is still around. i’ve been a patron of theirs for almost 20 years, starting at their 6th ave soho location, where i’d spot kathleen hanna eating with her beastie boy. people in the reviews complaining about bland food are weird—it’s a macrobiotic restaurant??

The food is tasty but appearance and plating could be improved. Many of the meal plates are very brown/green and could be improved with fresh garnish. Sliced scallions or green onion would add a lot.

Holy moly. I have been a few times and it is always great. This time was exceptional I tried the black sesame vegan ramen. Wooow. So lucky to be able to try out new foods. Service was great! Really nice energy and cute environment! Will be back to eat more often now!!!! sooo good.

"Clean" vegan food. Thankful for this place. Food was delicious!!

I’m obsessed with Souen. Every part of eating their food gives you the feeling that you are loved and that you are nourishing your body by giving it such nutritious, thoughtful, and balanced meals! Thank you so much to all the wonderful, kind people working there - thank you especially for not being annoyed when I call to ask about the soup constantly.

So fresh, so fine! Love the food - my favorite place for wholesome vegan ramen! Tahini Miso is the way to go woop woop! Thanks for this lovely place

If you’re looking for a healthy option in town Vegetarian options: Most dishes are vegan Dietary restrictions: Gluten free alternatives