Dharma Bums

Dharma Bums in New Hope is open five days a week with varying hours. They are closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Their kitchen hours are Wednesday and Thursday from 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM, Friday from 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM, Saturday from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM. The bar may remain open later, especially on weekends when they often have live music and events. It's always a good idea to call ahead at (215) 663-2867 to confirm hours if planning a visit.

Dharma Bums is located at 4935 River Road in New Hope, Pennsylvania, right on the bank of the Delaware River Canal and a short walk from the Tohickon Creek Valley and High Rocks Vista. Parking along River Road can be tricky as space is limited, but there are spots available near the restaurant. After dining, many guests enjoy taking a stroll along the nearby Delaware Canal towpath or riverfront, which offers scenic views that complement the dining experience.

Dharma Bums in New Hope specializes in what they call "vegetarian bar fare with an Asian flair," offering an inventive all-vegetarian menu that combines the comfort of neighborhood bar food with the spice and influence of Far Eastern cuisine. Their creative menu includes dishes like Naan Grilled Cheese with cheddar, American, and paneer cheeses, vegan cheesesteaks made with shiitake mushrooms, cauliflower tacos, and gochujang glazed cauliflower. The restaurant has received national recognition, including being named to USA Today's Best Restaurants list in 2025.

Dharma Bums in New Hope does not accept reservations; they operate on a first-come, first-served basis. This casual approach fits with their relaxed atmosphere and neighborhood vibe. If you're planning to visit during peak times (weekend evenings or when there's live music scheduled), it's advisable to arrive early to secure a table. For larger groups, you might want to call ahead at (215) 663-2867 to inquire about current wait times or the best time to arrive.

Yes, while Dharma Bums in New Hope is a vegetarian restaurant, they offer many vegan options and can modify several menu items to be vegan upon request. Many of their dishes are marked with a "V by request" notation on their menu, indicating they can be made vegan. Popular vegan options include their Cauliflower Tacos served in a gluten-free lettuce wrap with daikon slaw and sriracha aioli, and their "umami-packed bowl of red" with brown butter miso glazed Japanese sweet potato and chili crisp. The staff is knowledgeable about dietary restrictions and can guide you through vegan-friendly choices.

Dharma Bums in New Hope stands out for its fascinating history and distinctive atmosphere. Located in a 19th-century building that once housed Jack's Bar and later Apple-Jacks, it was a gathering place for the Black Cat Motorcycle Club and even hosted revolutionary Abbie Hoffman's famous "Dump the Pump" meetings. Unlike most modern restaurants, Dharma Bums has no TVs, encouraging actual conversation among patrons. The restaurant offers live music, drum circles, classes, and workshops, creating a community space that earned it recognition on USA Today's Best Restaurants 2025 list—making it one of the most unique dining experiences in Bucks County.

Yes, Dharma Bums in New Hope offers outdoor seating in a large courtyard that's open during warmer months. This al fresco dining area provides a pleasant space to enjoy their vegetarian fare and craft drinks while taking in the charming atmosphere of riverside New Hope. The outdoor courtyard even features a fire pit where guests can huddle during cooler evenings. This outdoor space is also used for various activities and events, adding to the restaurant's community-oriented vibe. For availability of outdoor seating, which is weather-dependent, it's best to call ahead at (215) 663-2867.

Dharma Bums in New Hope regularly hosts live entertainment and special events, making it more than just a restaurant. They feature a variety of local performers playing acoustic music, brass instruments, and drum circles, particularly on weekends. The restaurant has two floors, with performances often taking place on the upper level. Beyond music, they offer classes and workshops, some taught by co-owner Fiona Trachtenberg, who has a master's degree in ceramics. Their events calendar changes frequently, so it's recommended to check their website at dbums.com or their social media pages for upcoming events.