Chef Guy Vaknin’s Expanding Kosher Empire: Anixi, Beyond Sushi, Le Basque, Coletta and More
In the heart of New York City, a culinary revolution is taking place, led by Chef Guy Vaknin and his City Roots Hospitality group. While Manhattan has some of the best kosher restaurants in the world, this innovative restaurant collective is redefining both vegan and kosher dining, offering a diverse array of international cuisines that cater to both kosher-observant and vegan food enthusiasts alike.
The Visionary Behind City Roots Hospitality
Chef Guy Vaknin, the founder of City Roots Hospitality, brings a unique perspective to the kosher dining scene. Raised on a kibbutz in Israel, Vaknin learned the values of social responsibility, sustainability, and cooperative living from an early age. These principles have shaped his culinary philosophy, leading him to create a restaurant group that not only serves delicious food but also raises awareness about the interconnectedness of food and the environment. Chef Vaknin also appeared on Shark Tank in 2018 and in Hells Kitchen Season 10, where he famously cut his finger.
The ingredients Vaknin uses in his restaurants range and include vegan “steaks” from Chunk.
A Note on Kosher Certification for Vaknin’s Restaurants
It’s worth noting that numerous of the kosher restaurants under City Roots Hospitality are certified by the International Kosher Council. While this certification is accepted by some kosher-observant diners, some may not view it as stringent as other certifications and not acceptable. As always, it’s advisable for those with strict kosher requirements to inquire about specific certification details.
A Global Culinary Journey
City Roots Hospitality boasts an impressive portfolio of kosher-certified restaurants, each offering a distinct culinary experience:
Beyond Sushi: Pioneering Vegan Sushi
Beyond Sushi, the flagship restaurant of City Roots Hospitality has revolutionized the concept of sushi. This trailblazing vegan, Asian fusion restaurant transforms traditional sushi by blending fresh, locally sourced vegetables, grains, and distinctive sauces into colorful, flavorful rolls. With nearly 3,000 Google reviews and an average rating of 4.6 stars, Beyond Sushi has gained popularity far beyond the kosher segment. Some of the most sought-after items include spicy mang sushi, ginger beef dumplings, cauliflower wings, and ube cheesecake.
There are two Beyond Sushi locations:
Midtown @: 134 W 37th St, New York, NY 10018
Uptown @ 62 W 56th St, New York, NY 10019
Anixi: A Mediterranean Oasis
Anixi, meaning “Spring” in Greek, is a Mediterranean Brasserie in Chelsea that brings the vibrant flavors of Greece, Turkey, Syria, and Lebanon to New York City. Chef Vaknin draws inspiration from the scents, ingredients, and textures of the region, creating a menu that transports diners to the Mediterranean coast. With close to 1,000 Google reviews and a stellar 4.7-star rating, Anixi has quickly become a favorite among kosher food lovers. Popular dishes include Lamb Cigars and Grilled Chicken Kabob, and the restaurant also features a cocktail bar for those looking to elevate their dining experience.
Visit Anixi @ 290 8th Ave, New York, NY 10001
Coletta: Italian Flavors Reimagined
At Coletta, Chef Vaknin explores the distinct flavors of Italy through a kosher and vegan lens. The restaurant offers a menu of brick oven pizzas, fresh pasta, unforgettable entrées, desserts, and espresso—all crafted to provide an authentic Italian dining experience.
Visit Coletta @ 365 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10016
Sentir: A Journey Through Mexico
Sentir takes diners on a vibrant culinary journey through Mexico. One of the newer additions to City Roots Hospitality celebrates the rich culture and cuisine of the region, expertly blending tradition and originality. The scratch-made menu features traditional salsas, housemade chips and heirloom grain tortillas, fresh tacos and ceviches, chef-crafted entrees, and artisanal desserts. The bar offers the finest tequilas and mezcals from across Mexico, along with specialty margaritas and cocktails.
Visit Sentir @ 37 W 19th St, New York, NY 10011
Willow: American Comfort Food Reimagined
Located in Chelsea, Willow is a cozy vegan bistro that offers an innovative twist on classic American food. Chef Vaknin elevates traditional bistro comfort dishes with high-quality plant-based ingredients and upscale presentation, proving that kosher and vegan cuisine can be both comforting and sophisticated.
Visit Willow @ 199 8th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Le Basque: French-Spanish Fusion
The newest jewel in City Roots Hospitality’s crown is Le Basque, an upscale vegan restaurant in Union Square that masterfully blends the rich culinary traditions of France and Spain. Named after the Basque region—renowned for its vibrant cuisine that marries the flavors of both countries—Le Basque offers a unique plant-based dining experience that pushes the boundaries of kosher cuisine.
Visit Le Basque @ 15 Union Square W, New York, NY 10003
A Diverse Array of Cuisines to Explore
Chef Guy Vaknin’s City Roots Hospitality is at the forefront of a kosher culinary revolution in New York City. By offering a diverse array of international cuisines—all adhering to kosher and vegan principles—Vaknin is not only satisfying the palates of food enthusiasts but also promoting a more sustainable and compassionate approach to dining. Whether you’re craving innovative sushi, Mediterranean delights, Italian classics, Mexican flavors, American comfort food, or French-Spanish fusion, City Roots Hospitality has a kosher option to tantalize your taste buds.
