One of the greatest benefits of being a vegetarian in a big city like New York City or London is, surprisingly, not that there are plenty of dining options available for us. Sure, that’s a great bonus—but what I find to be a bigger boon is the fact that there are innumerable dining destinations that satisfy both hungry vegetarians AND their omnivorous dining companions. That makes being a vegetarian less of an isolating or disruptive experience for both the veggies and those around them.

I’ve found that many of the best places to bring diverse groups of diners are Asian restaurants, and thankfully, big cities like NYC often have Asian dining enclaves in nearly every neighborhood. Have a big group full of people who like their spice? Take a trip to NYC’s Curry Hill, on the east side of Midtown, to take advantage of one of the multitudes of Indian restaurants that have set up shop there. Vegetarians can be satisfied with any number of hearty vegetable dishes and breads, while the meat-hungry can happily throw some meat in the mix.

Similarly, if you’re looking for an agreeable pre-theater option, head to Hell’s Kitchen for one of the seemingly hundreds of Thai restaurants that line Ninth Avenue. Strict vegetarians, be sure to ask for your dishes prepared without fish sauce—but even if you do, you’ll find plenty to choose from.

Even Koreatown, in the mid-30s right in the center of Midtown, has lots of options for both camps. If it’s Korean BBQ you’re after, vegetarians can request their vegetables in a foil packet to avoid direct contact with the meats on the grill. It’s fun, interactive, and satisfying to all involved.

Japanese, Chinese, Indonesian—all tbese restaurants can have something for everyone, and thankfully, a city like NYC has ‘em all. For vegetarians who like to go out with non-veggie friends and family, it’s a boon to both their social lives and their friends’ happiness alike!