New York City has not always been a friendly place for gluten-free and vegan individuals. With a diet that can only be described as “90% cheese and bread”, the various pastas, pizzas, and bagels that permeate this city often left a wake of dissatisfied customers craving breadless and cheeseless alternatives to the New York staples. Thankfully, a new store is moving into the East Village to address those needs.
Cafe Viva Gourmet Pizza is a gluten-free and vegan pizza concept from health guru Tony Iracani. Founded in 1992 at 2578 Broadway on the Upper West Side, Cafe Viva has been serving alternative pizzas to the community for decades. Offering a selection of vegan, gluten-free, and traditional pizzas to customers, the restaurant also serves up specialty sandwiches, pastas, and appetizers like garlic knots. Known especially for their Margherita Pizza, Cafe Viva has become a mainstay of the local community.
As a pizza restaurant that caters to people with dietary restrictions, health is always at the forefront of the cafe’s decisions. That’s why Cafe Viva has partnered with Tony’s other company – Viva Herbals & Essentials – to offer customers exclusive teas, herbal medicines, and essential oils. Founded in 1997, Tony has dedicated nearly his entire life to improving the mental, physical, and spiritual wellness of his community. Hoping to help customers increase their chi generation, Tony sells Chi Tea Herbal infusions and green tea products that are designed specifically to release blocked energy and create a clear pathway for chi to flow optimally through the body.
Now, after over two decades of successful operation, the Cafe Viva team is finally ready to open a second location. Moving into the space at 248 East 5th Street, the new Cafe Viva will be operated by Justin Iracani, Tony’s son. Located on the corner of Second Ave and East 5th Street, the spot was previously home to a Bareburger that closed by the end of 2019. With plenty of natural light and a spacious interior, the space is perfect for Justin’s new vision for the restaurant. Be sure to follow them on Instagram for further updates as you await their latest expansion.
