Welcome to Subculture
Subculture, located in Albany, NY, is a vibrant vegan deli that redefines plant-based dining. With a diverse menu featuring tantalizing sandwiches, wraps, and unique deli offerings, it caters to both vegans and non-vegans alike. Highlights include their beloved Reuben sandwich and Buffalo Mac Crunch Wrap, celebrated for their rich flavors and generous portions. The charming atmosphere, coupled with a commitment to local sourcing and innovative daily specials, makes dining here an experience worth returning for. Subculture not only serves incredible food but also fosters a welcoming community, proving that delicious meals can support compassionate living.
- 227 Lark St, Albany, NY 12210, United States Hotline: +1 518-599-5306
If you’re a food lover in Albany, NY, then "Subculture" is a name that should be on your radar. Situated at 227 Lark St, this vegan deli crafts tantalizing dishes that cater not just to plant-based eaters but to anyone craving delicious, hearty meals. It’s a culinary haven that invites diners to explore inventive plant-based takes on traditional favorites.
At Subculture, creativity and flavor collide in an impressive array of sandwiches and wraps. From the Philly Cheesesteak, made with house-made seitan and grilled veggies, to the innovative Jackfruit Tuna sandwich—a delightful mash of jackfruit and chickpeas—every bite is a celebration of taste and texture.
- Chick'n Salad Wrap: A classic blend of soy curls, celery, and fresh greens, it strikes a perfect balance of flavor and freshness.
- Cheesy Chorizo Potato Burrito: This comforting dish combines housemade soyrizo with hashbrowns and Just Egg, delivering a warm, cheesy embrace.
- Crunchwraps: The Buffalo Mac n Cheese Crunchwrap and its variations are crowd-pleasers that keep diners coming back.
As one reviewer, Jeremy Tuttle, noted, the sandwiches at Subculture are “incredible,” while Olivia Pang insisted the Reuben—with smoky, chewy seitan—is among her top favorites not just here, but anywhere. It’s clear that Subculture has managed to create hearty portions packed with flavor, winning the hearts of even the most skeptical non-vegans.
Moreover, the deli case is a treasure trove of unique vegan provisions, from black truffle potato salad to homemade vegan 'meats' offered for home cooking. It’s a place that not only serves food but actively invests in the local vegan community by sourcing ingredients from local producers.
The ambiance at Subculture is relaxed, making it an ideal spot for casual dining. The kind and accommodating staff ensure that every visit feels personal, from swiftly preparing orders to suggesting new specialties that rotate weekly. As G. H. mentioned in their review, even unexpected moments like a failed online order are handled with professionalism and care, ensuring that the magic of Subculture shines through.
In a city yearning for quality vegan cuisine, Subculture stands out as a staple. With affordability that doesn’t compromise quality, this deli is not only for vegans and vegetarians; it’s an open door to anyone who loves good food. So, if you're looking for a place where flavor knows no restrictions, make your way to Subculture—you won’t be disappointed!

Incredible sandwiches. Got the Reuben and the buffalo Mac n cheese Crunchwrap. Both are out of this world !

THIS DELI HAS EVERYTHING!!! and its completely vegan?! All my friends and family who don't usually eat vegan loved it! Plus they're super accommodating to other restrictions like gluten free and nut free. Their sandwiches are absolutely massive and packed with savory and tender vegan meats of all sorts that are even tastier than you could possibly imagine the real thing is! I've tried almost all the menu and the reuben, packed with smoky and chewy seitan, is easily my favorite sandwich not only here but that I've ever ordered anywhere (although all their dishes are in my top favorites). They also have a deli case and freezer where you can buy unique vegan products like spray cheese and vegan candy, local 'meats' made of seitan that you can cook at home just like you would for a real deli, I've had their Thanksgiving turkey and it was amazing, prepared fridge foods like jackfruit salad and potato salad, and desserts of which the cream croissant is incredible! It's run by such kindhearted people who provide excellent service, and truly care about veganism to provide delicious food while helping the animals and supporting other local businesses by sourcing local seitan meats. They also have rotating specials which can't be missed! It's always exciting and innovative, thank you Subculture!

This is my third time visiting, and I am obsessed with the philly cheesesteak made with seitan! The food is pretty good and it's definitely nice to have a vegan sub shop around. The vibe inside the restaurant is relaxed. Subculture is for meat-eaters, vegans, and everyone in-between! Be sure to check them out!

A staple of vegan cuisine in Albany on Lark Street. The food is affordable, but not at the cost of the quality. The vegan provisions are often changing week from week, as well as the baked goods. The specials that take place weekly are my favorite part of checking in. Truly a local gem.

Solid vegan sandwiches. Coming from NYC, prices were super cheap for me! I enjoyed my jackfruit “tuna” sandwich - big portion. My non-veg companion also enjoyed his meal a lot! Will definitely stop by again next time I visit.

This was a really cool place and they were very helpful. I thought I had placed an online order but it didn’t go through and when I came there thinking it would be ready I found out they didn’t have an order for me. I had plans to go to a show and was short on time and they were able to make my order quickly. The po boy sandwich made with oyster mushrooms was sooo good and seasoned very well. I do wish there were more mushrooms though, that’s my only knock. I felt like there was more bread that mushrooms but everything was good nonetheless.

We’ve been coming here for a couple years now! We drive from westchester all the way up here just for these sandwiches. There’s absolutely no vegan deli like this around. Make a location in westchester! The food is always fresh, flavorful and well portioned. If you’re a vegan, vegetarian or just in the mood for good food, this is your place!!!

Amazing vegan restaurant! Everything I've tried here is delicious. I especially love the crunchwrap, mac n cheese, and Italian sub. The atmosphere is great and they have the most helpful and kind staff. They also provide vegan food you can make at home like bacon, mozzarella cheese, and holiday roasts. They have fun and tasty new specials every week. Best vegan spot in Albany!