Don’t skip reading about this first-ever fast-casual vegan BBQ restaurant in New York City because you’re a meat lover. Pure Grit BBQ is not for vegans only.

Kerry Fitzmaurice, the creative mind behind this concept, started in the film industry before stopping by public relations and advertising, then moving on to create this plant-based BBQ establishment that’s both vegan and gluten-free.

Everything is smoked in-house and prepared with their signature sauces (a vinegar-based BBQ sauce and a hot sauce) and their rub. All three are for sale online or at the store.

For a bit of whimsy, Kerry has the kitchen add Smarties to each tray. She chose that after discovering that the owner’s daughter, who now runs the company, is vegan.

As Kerry’s guests, we sampled most of their food offerings, including their signature cornbread waffles available either as a side with every BBQ plate ($21) or as a side ($5), sweet or savory. Don’t miss these or their waffle fries and baked beans ($6), which were some of my other favorites.

We also sampled their crispy tempura tofu bites tossed in BBQ sauce ($8), pulled and smoked young jackfruit ($18), coleslaw ($6), potato salad ($6), charred broccoli salad ($6), Daring plant-based “chicken,” their Cobb salad ($15) and signature salad ($15).

My vegetarian friend, who I brought to the tasting, was in heaven with all the choices with the Daring chicken and bleu “cheese” in the salad, her favs.

I do recommend stopping in to sample the tasty vegan goodies. Don’t  miss the waffle fries!

Pure Grit BBQ
Kips Bay
36 Lexington Ave
New York, NY 10010