Whether it’s a super small, hole-in-the-wall Starbucks or the biggest, baddest Starbucks your eyes have ever encountered, you’ll need a game plan. The options can be overwhelming at first (no matter which location you visit), so this guide will be your best friend.

With our Starbucks vegan handbook, it’s possible you’ll discover delightful hot and cold drinks you’ve never heard of and learn tips and tricks that will get you the best beverages and the tastiest snacks, all without dairy or animal products. Let’s get started!

For more ways to order vegan at coffee shops check out our Peet’s Coffee Vegan Guide (awesome vegan options including a veggie breakfast sandwich), Dunkin Donuts, Einstein Bros Bagels, Krispy Kreme, McDonald’s, and Panera Bread.

How To Order Dairy Free at Starbucks

Did you know that you can order (almost) anything at Starbucks vegan? Here’s how to hack the Starbucks menu so you can ace your next road trip and order like a vegan boss when visiting the biggest coffeehouse chain in the world. 

When you follow the steps below, you can order all your favorite beverages in a way that’s animal friendly, kinder to our planet, healthier for your body, and still tastes great. It’s a win-win-win. So why not make your next Starbucks order vegan? 

Step One: Plant-Based Milk Swap

Just ask your barista to replace dairy milk with soy milk, almond milk, coconut milk or oat milk.

Step Two: Leave Out the Animal Products

If ordering food, request no cheese, no egg, and (of course) no meat.

Step Three: Say No to Beverage Boosts

For beverages, hold the following non-vegan ingredients:

• Caramel Drizzle (caramel syrup is vegan)
• Cinnamon Dulce Topping (contains butter)
• Java Chips (in certain Frappuccinos)
• Protein Powder (in smoothies)
• Pumpkin Spice Sauce
• Whipped Cream

It’s as easy as that! You can always just ask your barista to make your drink vegan (without dairy, honey, or other animal products), but the steps above will give you an idea about what to look out for. 

Starbucks Vegan Drinks

The beverage list for Starbucks is impressive, so we’ll try to break it up into easy-to-find sections for you. Whether you’re searching for hot coffees, iced teas, creamy lattes, zesty lemonades, or vegan Starbucks frappuccinos, we’ll help you find what you’re longing for. Just keep reading!

Hot Coffees

For either hot or iced coffee beverages, ask for a plant-based milk (almond, coconut, oat, or soy) and cane sugar to be used, if you want a creamy or sweet addition. You may wish to take notes or order online before you go to because there are just so many choices to consider.

• Americano – Espresso topped with hot water.
• Brewed Coffees – Blonde Roast, Decaf Pike Place, Pike Place, or Veranda Blend
• Café Latte
• Caffe Mocha – Ask for no whipped cream.
• Cappuccino
• Caramel Macchiato – Substitute caramel syrup for caramel sauce.
• Cinnamon Dolce Latte – Ask for no whipped cream or cinnamon dolce topping
• Espresso
• Espresso Macchiato
• Flat White
• Peppermint Mocha Latte – Order with no whipped cream or dark chocolate curls.
• Starbucks Reserve Latte
• Starbucks Blonde Vanilla Latte

Iced Coffees

• Iced Coffee
• Cold Brew
• Iced Caffe Americano – ice, water, brewed espresso
• Espresso or Shaken Espresso Iced
• Iced Caffe Latte
• Iced Cinnamon Dolce Latte – Ask for no whipped cream or cinnamon dolce topping.
• Blonde Vanilla Latte Iced
• Iced Caramel Macchiato – Ask to substitute caramel syrup for caramel sauce.
• Caffe Mocha Iced – Order with no whipped cream.
• Iced Peppermint Mocha – Request no whipped cream or dark chocolate curls.

Already Vegan Iced Coffee Options

• Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso
• Chocolate Almondmilk Shaken Espresso
• Toasted Vanilla Oatmilk Shaken Espresso

Vegan Holiday Starbucks Drinks

While these are only available seasonally, many of them are already made vegan!

• Oleato Gingerbread Oatmilk Latte
• Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte
• Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato
• Chestnut Praline Latte – Ask for non-dairy milk and no whipped cream

Hot Teas

If you like your tea with milk and sweetener, ask for a plant-based milk (almond, coconut, oat, or soy) and cane sugar to be used.

• Chai
• Earl Grey
• Emperor’s Clouds & Mist
• Jade Citrus Mint
• Royal English Breakfast

Hot Tea Lattes

Request non-dairy milk to be used in these lattes.

• London Fog Tea Latte
• Matcha Tea Latte
• Royal English Breakfast Tea Latte

Iced Teas

For all of these iced teas options, you may wish to choose the cane sugar as a sweetener and/or a non-dairy milk of your choice. Finally, bottled teas (like Teavana Black or Green) are sometimes offered (depending on location) because they’re a good to-go option.

• Iced Teas – Black, Green, London Fog, Matcha, Passion Tango, and Peach Green
• Cold Tea Lattes – London Fog and Matcha
• Iced Tea Lemonades – Black, Green, Matcha, Passion Tango, Peach Green

Caffeine-Free Hot Teas and Beverages

• Cinnamon Dolce Crème – Substitute with non-dairy milk and ask for no whipped cream or cinnamon dolce topping.
• Hot Apple Juice – Request steamed.
• Hot Chocolate – Ask for a plant-based milk and no whipped cream.
• Mint Majesty Tea – Herbal tea
• Peach Tranquility Tea – Herbal tea
• Peppermint Hot Chocolate – Order with your choice of non-dairy milk and no whipped cream or dark chocolate curls.
• Vanilla Creme – Choose a non-dairy milk and ask for no whipped cream.

Caffeine-Free Iced Teas

• Iced Teas – Passion Tango
• Iced Tea Lemonades – Passion Tango

Fruity Beverages

• Lemonades – Kiwi Starfruit, Mango Dragonfruit, Strawberry Acai, and Plain Lemon
• Fruity Drinks – Kiwi Starfruit, Mango Dragonfruit, and Strawberry Acai

Vegan Starbucks Frappuccinos

For every one of these creamy, dreamy frappuccinos, remember to ask for non-dairy milk and no whipped cream (until they start offering an oat or coconut whipped cream).

• Mocha Frappuccino
• Caffe Vanilla Frappuccino
• Strawberry Creme Frappuccino
• Matcha Creme Frappuccino

Specialty Vegan Starbucks Drinks

These specialty blends and refreshers are all the rage and also caffeine-free. They’re colorful, super fun, and downright delicious if you’re vegan or not. It’s time to give one (or all of them!) a try!

• Dragon Drink (mango dragonfruit and coconut milk)
• Golden Ginger (coconut milk with ginger, pineapple, and turmeric)
• Pink Drink (strawberry acai and coconut milk)
• Star Drink (kiwi starfruit and coconut milk)
• Strawberry Lemonade Blended (ice, lemonade, creme frappuccino syrup, and strawberry puree)
• Very Berry Hibiscus (blackberry flavor with hibiscus, sweet ginger, and lemongrass)
• Violet Drink (very berry hibiscus refresher with coconut milk and ice)

Starbucks Vegan Food Options

This popular cafe also has a wide selection of vegan choices, and approximately 60 million people visiting Starbucks every single week, it’s wonderful to know that much of their menu can easily be made plant-based to accommodate vegans and health-conscious consumers. Cheers to that!

At the moment, you can order food items such as:

• Bagels – Cinnamon Raisin, Everything, Plain, and Sprouted Grain (add avocado spread or Justin’s nut butter)
• Chickpea Bites & Avocado Protein Box
• Oatmeal – Rolled & Steel Cut Plain (with brown sugar, dried fruit, and nuts) or Blueberry (with nut medley, blueberries, and agave nectar). Request non-dairy milk on the side if you’d like extra liquid.
• Strawberry Overnight Grains – Includes oatmeal (in coconut milk), cooked steal cut oats, red quinoa, and chia seeds with coconut shavings, strawberries, and toasted almonds.

Vegan Snack Foods

There are tons of tasty choices for Starbucks vegan snacks. At least half of the sweet and salty snack selections are vegan-friendly and dairy-free. Just take a quick peek at the back of those pre-made packages and skim the list for milk, egg, or meat ingredients. You’re likely to be pleasantly surprised with their vegan offerings—chips, cookies, and candies, oh my!

Here is a sound sampling of some of the treats on display:

• Avocado Spread
• Bananas
• Hippeas White Cheddar Chickpea Puffs
• Justin’s Nut Butters (Classic Almond or Hazelnut Butter)
• Kettle Potato Chips (salt and vinegar, simply salted, sweet potato)
• Peter Rabbit Organic Fruit Pouches
• Squirrel Brand Mixed Nuts
• Starbucks BBQ Potato Chips
• That’s It Fruit Bars

NOT Vegan at Starbucks

These items at Starbucks contain dairy and cannot be made vegan:

• Caramel Brûlée
• Caramel Drizzle/Sauce
• Chai Latte (Chai syrup used in the latte contains honey, but the chai tea that comes in a teabag is vegan-friendly.)
• Cinnamon Dolce Topping
• Creams: Irish Cold Foam, Salted Caramel, and Vanilla Sweet
• Dark Chocolate Curls
• Frappuccino Chips
• Light Frappuccinos
• Pumpkin Spice Sauce
• Sauces: White Chocolate Mocha, Caramel Drizzle/Sauce (caramel syrup is vegan), Dark Caramel Sauce, Pistachio Sauce, Caramel Brulee Sauce
• White Chocolate Mocha 

Vegan Starbucks FAQ’s

Make Your Own Homemade Vegan Drinks and Desserts

If you’re frustrated with the lack of luscious vegan desserts and wonderfully warm (or cool and creamy!) drinks, we know just the thing to tide you over. Take just a few minutes to make one or two of these deliciously decadent recipes, settle into your favorite comfy chair, and enjoy in your own environment. Set the speakers to some soothing jazz sounds and enjoy the peaceful ambiance!

• Vegan Pumpkin Spice Latte
• Vegan Hot Cocoa
• Vegan Peppermint Mocha
• Cozy Vegan Mexican Hot Chocolate
• Best Oatmeal Cookies
• Spiced Vegan Hot Chocolate
• Super Easy Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies

For a shortcut, make a pot of coffee and add these delicious Vegan Coffee Creamers!

Creating a Kinder and More Accessible Starbucks Vegan Experience

Although this semi-cozy, high-end cafe does not yet have a specific vegan Starbucks menu to order from (we hope someday!), we can still keep our fingers crossed that our passionate vegan pleas will be heard. Since there are so few vegan-friendly coffee or sweet craving choices on the fast food front, let’s hope that they will continue to step up their Starbucks dairy free drinks and add at least one vegan bakery item soon. Wouldn’t it be a dream to be able to order a vegan cappuccino, vegan latte, or a vegan frappuccino without any fuss or extra charges?  In the meantime, we can always write to, call, or contact the managers of any location to make our requests.

This video was a collaboration with Vince Lia. You can watch our next video about how to order vegan at Chipotle and check out his plant-based recipes, inspiring videos, vegan shirts and more at VinceLia.com. 

What would be your most wished for food items on a vegan menu at Starbucks ? Let us know on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!

This article is not sponsored and we are in no way affiliated with Starbucks. At the time of this article, the menu items mentioned above are vegan. Since restaurants constantly update their menus and add or take away items, please keep this in mind when ordering your food. There may be new Starbucks vegan options that are not listed or items listed here as vegan, which are no longer vegan. Take care to double-check.

The post The Ultimate Vegan Starbucks Drinks & Food Guide appeared first on World of Vegan.

If you’re planning a trip here or just love learning about regional foods, this NYC vegan guide will give you a tiny taste of the city’s many offerings!

Best Vegan Delis in NYC

The bustling city of New York is known for many things and while you’d be right to think pizza and bagels right off the bat, deli food is also a vital New York City staple, especially late at night. While there are a few places to get super late-night vegan options around Gotham such as at the occasional vegan-friendly bodega, we’re focusing on deli spots that are 100% vegan here.

Orchard Grocer

Located in the deli-lined streets of the Lower East Side, Orchard Grocer is an all-vegan market with a deli counter! On their menu, you can expect to find a wide variety of sandwiches, salads, pastries, and best of all, vegan soft serve with seasonal flavors (mmm). They also feature products from an extensive selection of vegan favorites including The Herbivorous Butcher, Vegan Rob’s, Yeah Dawg, and Miyoko’s in addition to more unique items such as vegan caviar, local vegan cheeses, and a wide variety of dairy-free sweets. They also feature a daily special on their deli menu! Past specials have included double-decker Beyond Burgers, tofu-fried chick’n sandwiches, and JUST Egg on a vegan croissant!

Seitan’s Helper

Across the bridge in the neighborhood of East Williamsburg, Brooklyn is Seitan’s Helper. This queer and worker-owned vegan deli specializes in incredible house-made vegan meats and sandwiches. Vegan versions of pepperoni, mortadella, ham, and much more are available by the ½ pound if you want to enjoy their delicious seitan at home. In their deli case, you can also find veganized comfort classics such as pasta or potato salad along with other savory specials. On a budget and in a rush? Their grab-and-go sandwiches are pay-what-you-wish! How awesome!

Vegan Asian Food in New York City

Our NYC vegan guide could be solely dedicated to all of the incredible vegan Asian restaurant options available around the city! With delicious dim sum spots and no shortage of sriracha-heavy dishes, NYC is a haven for amazing Asian cuisine. Below we’ve included two spots that are very much worth your time in different parts of the city. Plus, you can find delicious vegan options on most Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Filipino, Malaysian, Singaporean, Indonesian, Cambodian, and other asian restaurant menus.

Amituofo

Located in the same area of Brooklyn as Seitan Rising, Amituofo serves a wide variety of delicious vegan dishes. My personal favorites include their Traditional Fried Rice and Grilled “Fish” Banh Mi. And once it starts to cool down, their Curry “Chicken” Noodle Soup is an absolute must! You can also find Chinese classes such as Smashed Cucumbers and Steamed Red Bean Paste Buns. You can also get Kimchi Fries, which are a delight all on their own! Want to have a Beyond Burger with a side of Spring Rolls? You can do that here at Amituofo!

Spicy Moon

Looking for a little spice in your life? Vegan Szechuan restaurant Spicy Moon features a menu full of vegan spins on traditional dishes such as Zha Jiang Noodles, Mapo Tofu with Beyond Beef, and much, much more. And no worries if your spice meter is on the lower end—you can ask for lightly spiced!

Beyond Sushi

New York City vegan sushi chain Beyond Sushi has evolved their menu quite a bit since their inception in 2012. In addition to vegan sushi made with ingredients like hijiki, vegan tuna, and eggplant, you can now also enjoy dishes such as Glazed Impossible Meatballs, Nori Tacos, and Ube Cashew Cheesecake. They even have four locations to choose from depending on where you are in the city!

Lily’s Vegan Pantry

In NYC’s Chinatown area lives Lily’s Vegan Pantry, formerly known as May Wah Vegetarian Market. This vegan Asian market features a huge variety of spices, snacks, and more mock meats than you can shake a leaf at. If you’ve ever wanted to try vegan abalone, or a vegan lobster shaped like one, this is the spot to hit up! They also partner with local vegan vendors such as Kozy Toasts and Veggie Grub.

NYC Vegan Cafés

The beauty of the Big Apple is that there’s room for a little bit of everything. If you’re craving something on the greener side or need a quick caffeine fix, we’ve got great news! These vegan cafés in NYC will hit just the spot.

Peacefood Cafe

With locations in downtown and uptown Manhattan, Peacefood Cafe offers a variety of fresh dishes, juices, and desserts for the whole family. An absolute must-try is their award-winning Chickpea Fries, which are among some of the only ones you can find in New York! Other notable dishes include their Seitan Medallion Panini, Pumpkin Quiche, and Fluffy Quinoa Salad.

Jungle Cafe

Nestled in the cozy neighborhood of Greenpoint, Brooklyn, Jungle Cafe features a delicious list of juices, smoothies, burgers, tacos, and more! They also have a vegan buffet with a rotating weekly menu so if you want a little bit of everything, you can have it! They even offer a children’s menu, which is a rare feature of many independent restaurants in New York!

NYC Vegan Fast Casual Restaurants

Sometimes you just want to grab your veggie burger and then get on with your day! Luckily there’s no need to settle for measly vegan options in the City of New York when it comes to fast food. With more spots opening up every day, you can truly have it your way in this bustling and brilliant city.

Marty’s V Burger

From their Original World Famous burger to their gluten-free Crabby Patty, Marty’s V Burger delivers veganized fast food classics with an authentic flair. While you can substitute a Beyond Burger or Impossible patty, what truly sets Marty’s V Burger apart from the competition is their delicious house-made patties! Made from a mix of seitan, black beans, and brown rice, you can enjoy their patties as a single or double burger along with a side of fries, coleslaw, or vegan mac n’ cheese. Find them in the Murray Hill neighborhood of Manhattan or order delivery!

Beatnic

Beatnic is a fast casual chain around NYC that serves plant-based burgers, fries, sweet potato mac and cheeze and more! Formerly by CHLOE., Beatnic rebranded in 2021 after a years-long legal battle with renowned chef Chloe Coscarelli who was originally behind by CHLOE but was ousted from her own business in 2017.

HipCityVeg

Philadelphia-based vegan fast casual chain HipCityVeg made their NYC debut in October 2021 and features favorites like their Blackened Chipotle Fajita Wrap and Ziggy Burger. Tasty breakfast specials include veganized versions of BEC (bacon, egg, and cheese) along with other sweet and savory sandwiches. Be sure not to sleep on their banana whip or seasonal shakes!

Vegan Brunch Options in New York City

Sometimes finding vegan-friendly brunch options can be a little tricky. It’s easy to get stuck with a basic bowl of fruit or some dry toast and little else. But here in NYC, vegan brunch options are not only plentiful but they’re absolutely delicious! Whether you’re in the mood for a plant-based scramble or vegan crêpes, The City That Never Sleeps is here to help you wake up.

Little Choc Apothecary

If you’re looking for the perfect place to take someone on a date or need a relaxing afternoon to yourself, look no further than Little Choc Apothecary in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Famous for their incredible vegan and gluten-free crêpes, Little Choc also features a huge menu of custom tea blends, açaí bowls, pastries, and an extensive drink list. Whether you’re in the mood for a savory Pizza crêpe or a glass of rosé, you are in for quite the treat at this adorable apothecary.

Vegan Fine Dining Restaurants

It’s no surprise that NYC is home to several upscale vegan restaurants. Some of them are even Michelin star-rated, so you know their food and flavors will be exceptional!

Eleven Park Madison

Considered one of the top restaurants in the world, this Michelin-Starred restaurant went entirely plant-based just a few years ago, thanks to celebrated chef Daniel Humm embarking on a mission to protect the environment one plate at a time. You can expect dishes that make you feel as satisfied as a meal with meat would. Rice porridge with celtuce, a brightly flavorful beet dish, and an amaranth-seed-and-sweet-pea served with a creamy fermented almond cream and pea-miso puree are just a few of the many amazing dishes on the menu.

Dirt Candy

Serving nothing but vegetables, this restaurant managed to acquire a Michelin Star, and for good reason. Their single tasting menu changes seasonally but their quality is consistently out of this world with bold and beautiful flavors.

Ladybird

This vegan tapas and wine bar has a seasonally rotating menu that highlights fresh produce alongside its classic offerings. Whether you want brunch or dinner, both menus feature mouthwatering options from matcha waffles and Just Egg frittatas to potato au gratin and truffle mac & cheese.

Flavorful House-Made Flair — Vegan Meats & Cheeses in New York City

With more than 23 restaurants per square mile, the chances of you finding a vegan restaurant that features house-made vegan meats and cheeses is higher than in most places. These two restaurants have totally raised the bar for excellent vegan fare that won’t break the bank.

Delice & Sarrasin

In the vibrant West Village tucked between Gay Street and Waverly Place is Delice & Sarrasin, a completely vegan French restaurant that serves traditional fare with a plant-based twist. You can find French classics such as veganized escargot, buckwheat crêpes, coq au vin made from pea protein, steak tartare, and much more. They also feature a house-made vegan cheese plate which is absolutely divine. If there’s one restaurant not to miss on a trip to NYC, this is it.

Modern Love Brooklyn

Owned by the incomparable Isa Chandra Moskowitz, Modern Love offers comfort classes with an elevated touch. Vegan mozzarella sticks, seitan burgers, and “Mac & Shews” are among the many delicious items on Modern Love’s meticulous menu. Looking for a Beyond or Impossible patty? You won’t find it here! If you ever find yourself in Omaha, you can also visit their flagship restaurant!

Vegan Mexican Food

Vegan Mexican food in NYC? This city truly has it all! While you may not find as wide an array of restaurants compared to cities such as Austin or San Diego, New York does have some truly appetizing options when it comes to vegan Mexican fare.

Jajaja Plantas Mexicanas

With locations throughout NYC, Jajaja delivers serious south of the border flavor with delicious Mexican dishes such as jackfruit tamales, enchiladas mole, and Mexican street corn. You can also find all day brunch options including chilaquiles and brunch tacos along with an impressive drink menu. Looking for vegan churros? You’ll find them here!

Bar Verde

100% soy and gluten-free, this Matthew Kenney restaurant is perfect for those who are looking for vegan Mexican fare rooted in truly whole foods. Items such as quinoa chorizo, napolitos, and maitake enmolada can be found on the menu along with delicious desserts such as flan and churros with chocolate.

NYC Vegan Soul Food

You don’t need to search far for some excellent vegan soul food in the City of New York. Home to large a large Black population with roots in the West Indies, Africa, and Puerto Rico, New York serves up some fantastic Southern fare.

Uptown Veg

Located in historic Harlem, Uptown Veg is a casual vegan soul food restaurant that features delicious plant-based spins on classic dishes. You can enjoy items from their buffet such as vegan mac’n’cheese, chick’n drumsticks, and chickpea curry, and much more. They also feature signature Jamaican patties filled with soy chicken, soy fish, kale, callaloo or lentil. Don’t sleep on their “chicken” wrap or macaroni salad!

Greedi Vegan

In the neighborhood of Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn, is Black and woman-owned Greedi Vegan, a soul food restaurant with an intentional touch. Menu highlights include the Greedi Beef Burger, Crab Cake Sandwich, Watermelon Arugula Salad, and Fried Okra Bites. They also have a robust juice menu and even serve a gluten-free mac’n’cheese! In the mood for drinks and dessert? Greedi Vegan has it all!

Plant-Based Pizza in NYC

No NYC vegan guide would be complete without the mention of pizza! The city is home to two 100% vegan pizzerias in Brooklyn and Manhattan.

Screamer’s Pizza

The brainchild of the owners behind Brooklyn’s Champs and Philly’s Blackbird Pizza, Screamer’s serves some of the finest slices in NYC. With locations in Greenpoint and Crown Heights, Screamer’s features pizzas with toppings like housemade seitan, Violife cheese, garlic oil, and more. There are slightly different items available depending on which location you’re in. Crown Heights has a more extensive menu, featuring sandwiches such as a Philly Cheesesteak, a Kale Caesar Salad, and fried items.

Double Zero

Matthew Kenney’s Double Zero features an extensive menu of wood fired pizzas and finely crafted Italian staples in the East Village. They can also make any pizza free of gluten and nuts! Pizzas such as Pepperoni or Squash Blossom are served with artisan cashew cheese by default but can be made with rice cheese upon request. They also serve a variety of pastas, antipasti, and salads along with a really nice brunch menu.

Vegan Desserts in New York City

Our NYC vegan guide would not be complete without a dessert list! From vegan soft serve to raw cakes, here is are just a few of many vegan dessert spots to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Erin McKenna’s BabyCakes

Completely gluten-free and utterly delicious, this Lower East Side bakery is 100% worth a visit! Get cookies, madeleines, bagels, and so many other amazing treats.

Happy Zoe Vegan Bakery

Did someone say lavender almond cookies? Why, yes! This Greenpoint bakery has that and much more.

Rawsome Treats

Find raw revisions of tiramisu, peanut butter cups, strawberry shortcake, and beyond at this Lower East Side shop.

Dun-Well Donuts

Located just down the street from CHAMPS, Dun-Well Donuts makes completely divine artisinal donuts. Get flavors such as chocolate, sprinkle, jelly, and rotating specials such as apple cheesecake!

Confectionery!

Queer and woman-owned chocolate shop in the East Village that has some seriously amazing sweets including macarons, chocolate truffles, and even vegan dog treats!

Whipped Urban Dessert Lab

Black and woman-owned vegan ice creamery offering delicious oat-based ice creams with a variety of toppings! Located in the Lower East Side.

Clementine Bakery

Brooklyn bakery with pastries, sandwiches, salads, and more!

Even More Vegan Spots

New York City has a lot of vegan spots and this guide would be over 10,000 words long if we were to list them all. We asked the Vegan NYC Food group on Facebook and here are other vegan locations locals recommended:

• Caravan of Dreams
• Next Stop Vegan
• Organic Grill
• PLNT Burger
• Urban Vegan Kitchen
• Vegan Grill
• Willow

Vegan-Friendly & Vegetarian Restaurant Options in NYC

The following restaurants are our honorable mentions! These establishments aren’t 100% vegan but still offer substantial plant-based options and are totally worth a visit!

• Superiority Burger – Vegetarian restaurant serving housemade veggie burgers, praiseworthy yuba sandwiches with incredibly crafted sides and desserts.
• Bodhi Kosher Vegetarian Restaurant – Kosher Chinese Cantonese style restaurant with an incredible array of dim sum, vegan meats, sushi, and traditional dishes.
• Natural Blend – A juice bar and cafe with loads of fresh vegan options.

We hope you found this New York City vegan guide to be helpful in planning where to eat during your next vacation or neighborhood outing!

More Vegan Restaurant Guides & City Guides

• Top Vegan Restaurants in London, UK
• Guide to Eating Vegan in Austin, Texas
• Chicago Vegan Restaurants
• Houston Vegan Restaurants
• Cleveland Vegan Restaurants
• Kauaii Vegan Restaurants
• San Francisco Vegan Restaurants
• Berkeley Vegan Restaurants
• Oakland Vegan Restaurants
• The Republic of Chile Vegan Restaurant Guide
• Vegan Fast Food Restaurants Guide
• 15 Best Vegan Resorts and Hotels

We hope you love exploring every vegan and vegetarian restaurant NYC has to offer! We’d love to hear from you in the comments below: What are the best vegan restaurants in NYC, in your opinion? Show them some love! Be sure to check online for the latest restaurant menu updates and hours of operation.

New York City cover photo from Canva designed by Michelle Cehn. Featured image credit: Marty V Burger. 

The post NYC Vegan Guide: The Best Vegetarian & Vegan Restaurants in New York City appeared first on World of Vegan.

What can a vegan possibly eat at McDonald’s? Do you need to resort to the bruised apple under the seat or to the vegan protein bar that you bought last year?

We’ll be taking you through everything you can eat that’s vegan at McDonald’s, as well as what to avoid.

All of the vegan options listed are also plant-based, vegetarian, dairy-free, and cholesterol-free. Read on to see where you can find the new McPlant Vegan McDonald’s Burger, and also get a glimpse of other more exciting vegan specials available abroad. Unfortunately, the current vegan options at McDonald’s in the USA are quite disappointing—but that should be changing soon! 

Vegan Choices at McDonald’s: A Limited Selection

Regrettably, the list of vegan-friendly options available at McDonald’s is quite limited compared to many other restaurants that offer more extensive plant-based menus. While we’ll explore all the available vegan choices below, it’s important to note that several items you might have assumed were suitable are, unfortunately, not vegan.

What is Not Vegan at McDonald’s (in the US)?

The following popular menu items at McDonalds contain animal products and are not suitable for vegans.

• French Fries at McDonald’s in the US are not vegan-friendly because they contain “Natural Beef Flavor,” which is derived from wheat and milk, and they are fried in beef fat. Try making sweet potato fries, polenta fries, tofu fries, or zucchini fries instead!
• Hash Browns on McDonald’s menu in the US are not suitable for vegans as they contain milk and are also fried in beef fat. These homemade hash brown waffles are so much betteranyway!
• Donut Sticks at McDonald’s are not vegan due to the presence of milk in both the sticks and the accompanying sauce. Explore our vegan donut guide for plant-based options.
• Shakes at McDonald’s are not vegan-friendly since they contain milk. Make your own vegan milkshake instead!
• McDonald’s Fruit Smoothies are not considered vegan as they contain yogurt. Make your own vegan smoothie with these recipes!
• Chocolate Chip Cookies on the McDonald’s menu are not suitable for vegans as they contain both egg and milk. However, you can make your own vegan chocolate chip cookies in a snap, or order some from an online vegan bakery!

Vegan Options at McDonald’s (USA)

There aren’t any plant-based meat options at most U.S. McDonald’s locations yet, but there have been hints that they may offer a plant-based burger in the near future. And if the fast-growing vegan options at other fast-food restaurants are a sign, it’s only a matter of time for McDonald’s to follow suit. Cross your fingers!

We’ve seen the new vegan options explode in popularity at fast-food giants like Burger King, Carl’s Jr., Taco Bell, Del Taco, and more. So McDonald’s…what are you waiting for?

For now, here’s what you can order from the McDonald’s vegan menu for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks—and how you can get creative with these very limited options.

Vegan McDonald’s Breakfast Options

• Fruit and Maple Oatmeal (ask to be made with water and without milk or cream)
• Apple Slices
• English Muffin (plain)

100% Vegan Breads

• English muffin
• Flour tortilla
• Artisan Roll

Vegetables

• Lettuce
• Tomato
• Pickles

Salads Suitable for Vegans (and How to Order Them)

• Southwest Salad (without cheese or Southwest dressing)
• Premium Bacon Ranch Salad (without cheese, bacon or Ranch dressing)
• Side Salad (without cheese or dressing)

Vegan Newman’s Own Dressings

• Balsamic and White Balsamic Vinaigrette
• Raspberry Walnut and Red Wine Vinaigrette
• Classic Oil & Vinegar
• Zesty Italian
• Sesame Ginger
• Citrus Splash

Plant-Based Dipping Sauces and Condiments

• Spicy buffalo
• Barbecue Sauce
• Sweet and Sour Sauce
• Ketchup
• Mustard
• Maple Syrup

Vegan Snacks at McDonald’s

• Apple slices
• Baked apple pie (yes, it’s accidentally vegan!)

Vegan-Friendly Drinks at McDonald’s

• Soda
• Hot coffee (without milk or cream)
• Iced coffee (without milk or cream)
• Orange juice
• Apple juice
• Iced tea (without milk or cream)
• Slushies

When Will the Vegan McDonald’s Burger (McPlant) Be Available in the USA?

After decades of offering zero options catered toward vegans, McDonald’s has finally turned a corner with the international launch of the new vegan McPlant Burger! This is essentially a vegan BigMac. They are doing a slow-but-steady rollout of the McPlant burger, and have thus far tested the McPlant burger in Sweden, Denmark, the Netherlands, Austria, and the U.K. It’s gotten rave reviews and is now starting to be tested in select U.S. McDonald’s locations.

According to a meat industry news outlet, the plant-based McPlant burger tests have exceeded expectations, and McDonald’s is expected to continue rolling out the McPlant burger in the US in 2022.

“Sales of the plant-based burger are well above expectations. Consumers should expect a broader rollout of the McDonald’s McPlant in 2022 following a successful trial of the plant-based burger in eight select U.S. cities, BTIG analyst Peter Saleh predicted.

‘Our conversations indicated the McPlant test performed exceptionally well in its handful of locations, with very limited operational challenges.'”

How to Make Meals From The McDonald’s Vegan Menu

McDonald’s Vegan Breakfast Ideas

• Fruit and Maple Oatmeal (made with water, no cream), a coffee (without milk or cream), and a side of apple slices.
• A toasted English muffin with margarine*, jelly*, or maple syrup* with a side of apple slices and an orange or apple juice. *(Some restaurants may have these available in the morning or during the day. Ask the cashier when ordering.)
• Baked apple pie alone or along with either idea above
• If you’d like a vegan McDonald’s coffee, you’ll just need to order it black, without milk or cream.

Vegan Lunch and Dinner Ideas

• Southwest Salad (with no cheese or Southwest dressing), dressing, beverage
• Premium Bacon Salad (with no cheese, bacon or Ranch dressing), dressing, beverage
• Southwest Wrap—order the Southwest Salad (no cheese or Southwest dressing), a flour tortilla (or two!), dressing, beverage. Ask for the flour tortilla(s) on the side and assemble your own veggie wrap by filling the tortilla with salad and topping with a dressing.
• Veggie Artisan Roll Sandwich—ask for any of the burgers or sandwiches without the meat, cheese, and mayo. Ask for extra lettuce, tomato, and pickles. Request a dipping sauce (like bbq, mustard or spicy buffalo), if desired, and a beverage.
• Basic Side Salad and a Wrap or Sandwich combo

McDonald’s Vegan Snack Ideas

• Apple slices
• Apple Pie
• Any of the breakfast, lunch, dinner ideas
• Apple or orange juice
• Coffees or teas (without milk or cream)

Bring Your Own Extras and Add-Ons

If you’re able to keep some of these in your car, pocket, or purse, you’ll improve your chance of having a satisfying meal when visiting McDonald’s. They’re also perfect snacks on their own!

• Packets of nut butter (to top a toasted English muffin, tortilla or artisan roll)
• Hummus (to top a toasted English muffin, tortilla or artisan roll)
• Avocado (to top a toasted English muffin, tortilla or artisan roll)
• Packages of nuts (add to salad or oatmeal bowl)
• Fresh fruit (add to salad or oatmeal bowl)
• Dried fruit (add to salad or oatmeal bowl)
• Individual container of plant-based milk (to add to coffee or tea to drink alongside a meal, or to add to the oatmeal bowl)
• Reusable cutlery, especially a knife (to cut the avocado or spread nut butter)

Are McDonald’s Fries Vegan?

Sadly, NO. Even the french fries at McDonald’s aren’t vegan—at least not in the United States. Some other countries (such as Canada) do have vegan fries, but if you’re in the US, pass on the fries.

Generally, when vegans swing by burger joints, we can sigh and say, “Well, at least the fries are vegan.” That this is not the case at McDonald’s is a travesty we may never get over.

Are McDonald’s Apple Pies Vegan?

Yes, sweet friends! The McDonald’s apple pies are vegan! They are what we call “accidentally vegan.” McDonald’s certainly didn’t design them for specifically vegans, but they don’t happen to include any animal products! No meat, no eggs, no milk, no butter, and no dairy whatsoever.

Another question many ask—are the McDonald’s apple pies made with real apples? Yes, in fact they are! They also contain apple powder (for deeper flavor), wheat flour (sorry, gluten-free friends), brown sugar, cinnamon, apple powder, palm oil (I know, not the best), salt, and high-fructose corn syrup.

What about the sugar? Is the sugar in these Apple Pies vegan? It’s not made with vegan-certified sugar, but we still consider it vegan (in the same way that vegetables are considered vegan even if they’re grown in cow manure). If you’d like to learn more about the vegan status of sugar, read our “Is sugar vegan?” article.

What do the McDonald’s apple pie nutrition facts look like? While I doubt many of you are swinging by McD’s for a healthy treat, you may be curious about the nutrition profile. McDonald’s apple pies contain 230 calories each, 2 grams of plant-based protein, 11 grams of fat, and 33 grams of carbs. There we have it! Imperfectly and accidentally vegan apple pies at McDonald’s.

Vegan Dishes at Other McDonald’s Locations (Outside the USA)

• Vegetable Deluxe Sandwich (UK)
• Spicy Veggie Wrap or Meal (UK)
• Muffin with Jam Meal (UK, includes english muffin, jam, black coffee, and a package of apples and grapes)
• Big Vegan (Germany)
• Vegan Vegetable Nuggets (Norway)
• Falafel Nuggets (Sweden)
• McVegan (Finland)
• El Veggo (Finland)
• McAloo Tikki (India)

HISTORIC NEWS: Vegan McPlant Burger Launches at Select McDonald’s Locations!

What is the McPlant Burger Patty Made From?

The new McPlant is made with a Beyond Meat burger patty that has actually been certified vegan by the UK’s Vegetarian Society. Not only is the McPlant burger completely vegan, but McDonald’s has also made the decision to cook the vegan patties on a separate grill from their other meat and dairy items. While cooking vegan items on a grill that’s not exclusively vegan is acceptable to many (but not all) vegans, it’s still a very nice gesture that we certainly appreciate.

What is on the McPlant Burger, you ask?

The standard fixin’s that come on a McPlant burger—besides the Beyond Meat patty—include vegan sandwich sauce, lettuce, pickles, tomatoes, and the much anticipated McDonald’s vegan cheese! According to McDonald’s, they tested dozens of vegan cheese brands from many different countries before setting on coconut oil-based cheese slices made in collaboration with an Irish company called Kerry. The vegan cheese slices look just like a classic orange slice of American cheese—and many people have said they tastes nearly identical!

It’s only a matter of time before the McPlant burger is available at every McDonald’s location, just as the Burger Kind Impossible Whopper and Carl’s Jr. Beyond Famous Star burgers have become a staple on every menu. The list of McPlant locations is quickly growing and we eagerly await the McPlant burger USA rollout!

McDonald’s McPlant Burger Taste Test Video (from a London location):

When Will There Be Vegan McDonald’s Nuggets?

Once the vegan McDonald’s burger is a permanent fixture on the vegan McDonald’s menu worldwide, the obvious next step are vegan nuggets. I’m sure it’s only a matter of time, but we haven’t heard any rumors about vegan McDonald’s nuggets yet. Considering the success of the McPlant burger, it would be very surprising if McDonald’s isn’t already working on some secret vegan nugget magic behind the scenes.

Find More Vegan-Friendly Fast Food Options

We know how it goes, sometimes you land at a McDonald’s and have to make it work. However if you’re able to convince your friends to swing by another eatery, fast food chain, or heck—even a gas station instead, you’ll likely have far better luck getting a filling meal. Here are some of the best fast food options for vegans.

Fast Food Chains With Vegan Burgers

Knowing that there are various vegan options at mainstream burger chains makes it much easier when traveling or hanging out with friends. These are tried and true chains which offer more than one choice for a meal. We promise you won’t leave hungry!

• Burger King (Impossible Whopper)
• Carl Jr.’s (Beyond Star Burger)
• White Castle (Impossible Sliders)

Restaurant Chains With the Best Vegan Options

Looking for the best filling fast food meals for vegans? The following fast food restaurants have the biggest selections of meal options for vegans.

• Chipotle – Chipotle offers a world of vegan options, including Sofritas tofu, beans, fajita veggies, and fresh salsas. Customize your bowl, burrito, or tacos for a satisfying plant-based meal.
• Taco Bell – Taco Bell’s dedicated vegan menu features favorites like the Black Bean Crunchwrap Supreme and Bean Burrito. You can also swap meat for beans in various menu items for a delicious vegan twist.
• Del Taco – Del Taco’s Beyond Avocado Taco, made with Beyond Meat, avocado, and veggies, is a vegan favorite. Create your custom vegan burritos and tacos with bean substitutions and a variety of plant-based toppings and sauces.

Vegetarian and Vegan Fast Food Restaurants

Here are some up and coming chains that offer fantastic fast food, including mouth-watering veggie burgers, golden fries and scrumptious shakes!

• Veggie Grill (several locations in Northern and Southern California)
• Amy’s Drive-Thru (Rohnert Park, CA—more locations coming soon!)
• Burger Patch (Sacramento, CA)
• VeganBurg (Singapore and United States)

How to Order Vegan at Other Chains

Don’t miss our comprehensive vegan fast food guide that breaks down what you can get at all the major fast food chains, such as:

• Chick-Fil-A – It’s nearly impossible to satisfy your hunger at Chick-fil-A as a vegan. You’re looking at bland salads without the fixings and waffle potato fries. They also provide vegan-friendly sauces like BBQ, Polynesian, and Sriracha.
• Wendy’s Vegan Options – Wendy’s is another tough spot for vegans, but our guide shows you how to piece together side dishes.
• Dominos – You can hack the Domino’s menu to create a vegan pizza with vegetable toppings and other altered options. But if you’re stuck here for pizza night, consider bringing your own vegan cheese.
• Starbucks – Starbucks caters to vegans with dairy-free milk alternatives like almond, soy, and coconut milk. You can customize your coffee, tea, or cold brew with these options, and they have also offered occasional vegan food items like the Impossible Breakfast Sandwich.
• Arby’s – While Arby’s doesn’t have an extensive vegan menu, they do offer a Crispy Vegan Wrap made with plant-based Beyond Meat. It’s a flavorful choice for those looking for a meatless option at Arby’s.

Have you found any other options to be veganizable? Did you find something amazing that we missed? Send us a message and let us know and tag #worldofvegan and @vegan on Instagram to share your favorite vegan at McDonald’s creations with all of us!

At the time of this vegan McDonalds article, all of the foods mentioned above are vegan. Since restaurants constantly update their menus, add or take away items, and reformulate menu items, please keep this in mind when ordering your food. There may be new items that are vegan and not listed above or items listed here as vegan, which are no longer vegan. Take care to double-check. Good luck!

The post Vegan at McDonald’s: Plant-Based Menu Options and How to Order Everything Vegan appeared first on World of Vegan.

We’ll cover how to find the best vegan food near you, how to order vegan at different types of restaurants even if the menu isn’t 100% vegan, and how to figure out fast food options.

How To Find Vegan Restaurants Near Me

To get the widest variety of resources, it’s always helpful to start with a basic internet search. Whether you prefer Google, Bing, Yahoo, or a combination of those, type exactly what you’re hoping to find: “vegan food nearby.”

Sometimes, when you’re not sure exactly what type of food you want or there aren’t a ton of options in your immediate neighborhood, this can help give you the general lay of the land. To make sure the exact word “vegan” comes up in your results, add a plus sign: “+vegan food nearby.” From there, you can get more specific about the cuisine, when it’s open (now, over the weekend, late night), what type of meals they serve (breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, happy hour), or any other needs you have.

Should it be dog-friendly? Do you want a place with a view or simply outdoor seating? Type everything into the search bar like you were asking a friend.

While it’s helpful to know the right keywords, these algorithms are smart enough to figure out the basic idea of what you’re asking. Try to keep refining your question if you’re not getting the information you need right away.

How To Order Vegan At Fast Food & Chain Restaurants

Fast food chains used to be the bane of every vegan and vegetarian’s existence. When you’re driving through the middle of the country with only a handful of eateries to stop at for miles around, you’d be lucky to settle for French fries and a soda.

The sudden boom of Beyond Meat and Impossible Burgers has changed all that in recent years, bringing meatless meals to some unlikely eateries. Finally, we can get plant-based protein and maybe even a few vegetables, too! Many of these options will need modification to be fully vegan; always check to make sure there’s no cheese or mayo on top or egg included in the bun.

Check out our vegan fast food restaurants guide to see how to order at any chain restaurant. Here are a few of the most popular fast food restaurants and the full low-down on what to order:

• Ben & Jerry’s
• Burger King
• California Pizza Kitchen
• Carl’s Jr.
• Chipotle
• Cold Stone Creamery
• Einstein Bros Bagels
• Noodles & Co.
• Panera Bread
• Peet’s Coffee
• Starbucks
• Subway
• Taco Bell
• White Castle

100% Vegetarian & Vegan Chain Restaurants

You know veganism has hit the mainstream when there are fully plant-based chains drawing in crowds as large and enthusiastic as old school competitors. These places are making all the classics we know and love, but with better ingredients from start to finish. You won’t find any meat or animal products here, and you would never to know it judging by the taste!

• Amy’s Drive Thru (100% vegetarian and everything can be made vegan)
• Veggie Grill
• Native Foods
• Project Pollo
• Slutty Vegan
• Cinnaholic
• Mas Veggies Taqueria
• Stand-Up Burgers
• Beatnic
• Cafe Gratitude
• HipCityVeg
• Meta Burger

Vegan City Guides

We’ve rounded up the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants, cafes, and bakeries in popular cities so you can easily find vegan food wherever you may be!

The culinary landscape is rapidly changing, making space for alternative diets and those with food allergies to eat in peace all across the globe. Certain hot spots have become genuine destinations for those who will travel for food. Just make sure you pack your vegan walking shoes and stretchy pants! The vegan scene is booming, especially in these cities:

• Portland, OR
• Charlotte, NC
• Asheville, NC
• San Francisco, CA
• Oakland, CA
• Berkeley, CA
• New York City, NY
• Chicago, IL
• Austin, TX
• Boston, MA
• Kauai, HI
• Seattle, WA
• Orlando, FL
• Atlanta, GA
• Denver, CO

Vegan Cafes Near Me

Basic black coffee and tea are readily available at every cafe, but it’s no longer a stretch to expect oat milk as a common creamer, in addition to almond, coconut, soy, and beyond.

Starbucks, Peet’s, and other main chains have many vegan options, including light snacks and meals, with more inclusive menu additions on the way due to popular demand. Sometimes you’ll be lucky enough to find an all-vegan cafe, complete with fresh baked pastries, meatless sandwiches, and stunning latte art. These are just a few ground-breaking establishment for a truly restorative coffee break:

• Timeless Cafe (Oakland, CA)
• Dear Diary (Austin, TX)
• Guevara’s (Brooklyn, NY)
• Loving Hearts Vegan Cafe (Chicago, IL)
• Jet Black Coffee Company (Portland, OR)
• Mud Pie Vegan Bakery & Coffee (Overland Park, KS)

Vegan Bakeries Near Me

Not too long ago, traditional bakeries were no-go zones for anyone trying to avoid animal products. It can still be a struggle to satisfy particular cravings, but there is sweet relief right around the corner! Even in the most unlikely places, there are many bakers now aware of different dietary restrictions that will go out of their way to provide at least one or two vegan treats.

In these cases, your choices will likely be clearly, proudly, and unmistakably labeled in the case or on the menu. To be completely certain, always ask the staff. If they don’t know or can’t give you clear answers, that means the answer is “no.”

Don’t forget that there are great vegan sweets in main mainstream grocery stores, like Whole Foods! In addition to the packaged goods they have in the snack aisles and refrigerated and frozen sections, their in-house bakery makes many dairy-free and eggless delights fresh everyday. They can also fulfill custom orders for parties with advanced notice.

On hot summer days, nothing beats a frozen treat. Conventional ice cream, gelato, and sherbet are off the table, but there are many naturally vegan frozen desserts to enjoy. Most sorbet is “accidentally” vegan, though a very few number of manufacturers sneak egg whites into the mix, so always double-check before taking your first lick. Shaved ice is also a safe choice when you stick to whole fruits and fruit syrups, skipping over condensed milk toppings or “ice caps” made from ice cream.

When all else fails, you can always turn to vegan bakeries that ship or you can make your own! You could fill a whole bookcase with excellent vegan dessert cookbooks. So go ahead, there’s no reason why you can’t treat yourself!

And if you’re lucky enough to be near one of these establishments, these totally vegan bakeries are worth the visit:

• Batter & Crumbs (Philadelphia, PA)
• Chaumont Vegan (Beverly Hills, CA)
• Crust Vegan Bakery (Philadelphia, PA)
• Erin McKenna’s Bakery (New York City, Los Angeles, and Orlando)
• Just What I Kneaded (Los Angeles, CA)
• L’Artisane Creative Bakery (Coral Gables, FL)
• Le Petit Monstre (Brooklyn, NY)
• Maya’s Cookies (San Diego and San Marcos, CA)
• Mud Pie Bakery & Coffee (Overland Park, KS)
• Pie, Pie My Darling (Chicago, IL)
• Soy Concha Bakery (East Los Angeles, CA)
• Sticky Fingers Sweets & Eats (Washington, DC)
• The Baklava Lady Cafe & Bakery (Englishtown, NJ)
• The Cake Bar (Denver, CO)
• Timeless Coffee (Oakland & Berkeley, CA)
• Vegan Treats (Bethlehem, PA)

How To Find Vegan Breakfast Restaurants Near Me

They say that the early bird catches the worm, but what does the early vegan catch? Hopefully, a tofu scramble or a short stack of fluffy pancakes! If that’s not in the cards, you still have choices if you just know the right questions to ask. Ask your server to make sure there’s no:

• Butter, used to cook almost everything, including hash browns, sauteed vegetables, and sometimes the toast or toasted buns on burgers
• Cream or milk, sometimes used to cook oatmeal or served alongside cold cereal and coffee
• Yogurt, blended into smoothies or used to make fruit and granola bowls
• Eggs, very obviously featured in the classic staples like omelettes, Benedicts, and scrambles, but also hidden inside French toast, waffles, muffins, doughnuts, and pancakes
• Honey, sometimes used to sweeten granola or offered alongside hot drinks

If you’re fortunate enough to have access to a kitchen and some fresh groceries, you can whip up a morning feast with these easy recipes:

• Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Muffins
• Vegan Waffles
• Maple Brown Sugar Granola
• PB&J Chia Pudding Parfait
• Baked Oatmeal with Berries

Mexican Vegan Food Near Me

For an instant fiesta, there’s plenty to celebrate at most Mexican restaurants! You can find great vegan Mexican food if you know what to watch out for.

• Lard, otherwise known as pork fat, which can sneak into refried beans, pinto beans, black beans or rice
• Queso, cotija, manchego, and panela, which are all types of cheese
• Sour cream or queso, served on the side or drizzled over many entrees. On rare occasions it might be blended into guacamole, so double-check if it seems suspiciously extra-creamy.
• Chicken, pork, or beef stock in soups

100% vegan Mexican restaurants take the guesswork out of dinner. These are also the places to indulge in specialties that will otherwise always include animal products, like soups (typically made with chicken, beef, or pork broth), elote (made with sour cream and cheese), and more.

• Bambi Vegan Tacos (Sacramento, CA)
• Chi Chi Vegan (Atlanta, GA)
• Doomie’s NextMex (Los Angeles, CA)
• El Cocinero Restaurant (Van Nuys, CA)
• El Palote Panaderia (Dallas, TX)
• Nuno’s Tacos & Vegmex Grill (Dallas, TX)
• Penelope’s Vegan Taqueria (Chicago, IL)
• Gracias Madre (West Hollywood & Newport Beach, CA)
• Tacotarian (Las Vega, NV & San Diego, CA)
• Sugar Taco (Southern CA)
• Tacos Veganos (Phoenix, AZ)
• Lick It Up (Austin & El Paso, TX)
• Plant Based Papi (Portland, OR)
• Mis Tacones (Portland, OR)
• Nissi VegMex (Austin, TX)
• Jajaja Mexicana (New York City & Brooklyn, NY)

Additionally, there are a surprising number of fast food Mexican restaurants with an abundance of vegan options:

• Taco Bell
• Del Taco
• Chipotle
• Chili’s

Indian Vegan Restaurants Near Me

Many consider India to be the vegan capital of the world. With a population that’s over 30% vegetarian by birth, it’s not hard to understand why. The cow in particular is considered holy, so it’s incredibly rare to see beef in any authentic Indian restaurant. That said, dairy is a big concern for those avoid animal products. You have a great head start by browsing the vegetarian section if you then know what to avoid:

• Ghee, which is clarified butter, often used to cook vegetables
• Paneer, a firm cheese that looks quite a bit like tofu, but is definitely made from dairy
• Cream, sometimes used instead of or in conjunction with coconut milk
• Yogurt, often used as a garnish to top dish, swirl into soup, or blend into smoothies (like mango lassi), or made to make flatbread like naan
• Honey, popular for sweetening desserts

When you want to indulge your cravings for curry, you’re in luck. Most restaurants will understand your request for vegan dishes and happily accommodate. Some chefs go all-out to make completely plant-based food, like these vegan Indian restaurants:

• Silver Lake Vegan (Hollywood, CA)
• Anand Indian Cuisine (New York, NY)
• Arya Bhavan (Chicago, IL)
• The Sudra (Portland, OR)
• Total Vegan Indian Restaurant (Highlands Ranch, CO)

Vegan Chinese Restaurants Near Me

Chinese restaurants are some of the most common Asian option in the US, amounting to over 45,000 eateries at last count, according to the Chinese American Restaurant Association. Some menus can stretch on for pages like a novel, but even if they have a more limited listing, there are always options for great vegan Chinese food. Aside from the obvious dishes that list meats or egg right in the name, there are a few sneaky ingredients to look for that you might not expect:

• Egg in some noodles, vegetable fried rice, soups, wonton wrappers
• Chicken, beef, or pork stock in soups
• Shrimp in turnip or radish cakes, popular dim sum items
• Beef or pork in mapo tofu
• Oyster sauce in some vegetables like gai lan (Chinese broccoli)

Thai Vegan Restaurants

Vegan Thai food is another fantastic choice, full of brilliant spice and fresh vegetables with plenty of tofu and sticky rice. Know what to avoid to get the best experience:

• Fish sauce, used in many salads, salad dressing, and dips
• Shrimp paste, added as seasoning for some curry pastes
• Egg, included in many stir fry dishes like pad Thai and pad see ew
• Sweetened condensed milk, drizzled over some desserts like mango sticky rice or swirled into Thai iced tea

Japanese Restaurants and Vegan Sushi Near Me

Japanese food is another smart pick for healthy vegans, built upon a foundation of clean flavors and simple whole foods. Vegetable sushi rolls are always a good choice, although there are a few hidden animal products you might not expect rolled into some:

• Egg, otherwise listed as tamago or tamagoyaki, included in some “futomaki” (large vegetable rolls) or featured on nigiri sushi solo. Tempura batter also frequently uses egg as a binder
• Masago, tobiko, or ikura, which are all different types of fish eggs, used to garnish some sushi rolls and salads
• Dashi, which is a fish broth, used in miso soup and tsuyu (dipping sauce)
• Bonito or katsuo bonito, otherwise known as dried and thinly shaved tuna flakes, added on top of hiyayakko (cold) tofu or age (fried) tofu

To enjoy the full range of vegan Asian specialties, there are a growing number of 100% vegan chains that specialize in these cuisines:

• Beyond Sushi
• Loving Hut
• Cha Ya (Berkeley and San Francisco)
• Daikon Vegan Sushi (Las Vegas, NV)
• Ma-Kin Vegan Sushi (Agoura Hills, CA)
• Nori (Austin, TX)
• Shizen (San Francisco, CA)
• Shojin (Culver City & Los Angeles, CA)
• Tane Vegan Izakaya (Berkeley, CA & Honolulu, HI)
• The Sushi Samurai (Seattle, WA)
• The Yasai (San Diego, CA)
• Wellness Sushi (Denver, CO)

Dining Vegan At Italian Restaurants

Mama mia! How can you order vegan at Italian restaurants, you ask? Easy! Every Italian restaurant can always accommodate with a simple salad and dried pasta cooked with marinara sauce at the very least.

What are some of the hidden pitfalls, then? Olive oil is typically used instead of butter, but there’s still lots of dairy involved, first and foremost being:

• Cheese, so much cheese. Shredded mozzarella on pizza, fresh mozzarella in caprese salad, burrata as a starter, ricotta in lasagna, stuffed shells, and ravioli, Parmesan sprinkled over pasta and mixed into pesto, ricotta in tiramisu and cannoli, and plenty of crossover between those dishes.
• Cream is a key ingredient in vodka sauce and alfredo
• Egg, used in fresh pasta, which is why it’s important to ask for dried pasta instead. The same goes for gnocchi, too.
• Ground beef in some red sauces, especially bolognese

To dine without worry, check out some of the vegan Italian restaurants across the nation:

• Baia (San Francisco, CA)
• Coletta (New York, NY)
• Donna Jean (San Diego & Sherman Oaks, CA)
• Julie Goes Green (Los Angeles, CA)
• Lilla (Portland, OR)
• Monster Vegan (Philadelphia, PA)
• Pietramala (Philadelphia, PA)
• Pura Vita (West Hollywood & Redondo Beach, CA)
• Soda Club (New York, NY)
• Tarantino’s Vegan (Las Vegas, NV)

Ethiopian Restaurants Are Great For Vegans

Vegan food in Ethiopia is rich an abundant, highlighting the many legumes and native greens, all seasoned with bold spices that range from mild to explosively hot. Meat is eaten very sparingly by necessity, making much of the cuisine automatically vegetarian.

The one major consideration is niter kibbeh, which is a spiced butter sometimes used for cooking. Even if the kitchen uses this in most dishes, you can always ask them to use oil instead with no problems at all.

This is why Ethiopian food is such a great option for hungry vegans! It’s full of vegetables and proteins, each incredibly flavorful and satisfying. A few essential dishes you should know are:

• Injera, which is a springy, chewy flatbread made of fermented teff (a whole grain), used to scoop up stews like an edible utensil
• Gomen, simmered greens that could include collards, cabbage mustard greens, or kale
• Wot, a catch-all word for “stew.” Shiro wot is a key staple made with chickpeas, while misir wot features red lentils, for example.

The best way to dive into Ethiopian cuisine is to order a vegetarian “sampler platter,” composed of injera, fresh salad, and many different stews and greens. If you’re the type of person who wants a little taste of everything, this was made for you!

Middle Eastern Food

Arab, Armenian, Egyptian, Iranian, Israeli, Lebanese, and Turkish cuisines are full of vegetarian and vegan foods, making these restaurants a safe bet when you’re looking for a delicious plant-based meal. How to order vegan at middle eastern restaurants is a snap:

• Dips and spreads like hummus, babaganoush, and tahini
• Mezze, otherwise know as starters or appetizers, like dolma (stuffed grape leaves), olives, and grilled, roasted, or fried vegetables of all sorts
• Falafel, which are fried chickpea balls, that can be enjoyed as a stand-alone snack or stuffed inside pita bread as a sandwich
• Salads, including tabbouleh (featuring bulgur wheat and parsley), fattoush (made with pita chips), and many more
• Marinated beans that can be eaten as a side dish or spooned over pita, including fava beans, chickpeas, or lentils

Vegan Soul Food Restaurants

Once considered impossible to veganize, authentic American soul food is being rediscovered through meatless means. The increasing number of vegan soul food restaurants has proven that you don’t need the meat to keep the spirit of the cuisine alive! Most of these completely plant-based restaurants are still found in the south, close to their roots:

• A Peace of Soul Vegan Kitchen (Columbia, SC)
• Dirty Lettuce (Portland, OR)
• Cadence (New York, NY)
• Detroit Vegan Soul (Detroit, MI)
• Drop Squad Kitchen (Wilmington, DE)
• NuVegan Cafe (Washington, DC & Richmond, VA & Baltimore, MD)
• The Land of Kush (Baltimore, MD)
• Seasoned Vegan Real Quick (New York, NY)
• Soul Food Vegan (Houston, TX)
• The Southern V (Nashville, TN)
• V-Grits (Louisville, KY)
• Veltree in Charlotte, NC
• Sassy’s Vegetarian Soul Food in Austin, TX
• Planted Soul in Atlanta, GA
• Souley Vegan in Oakland, CA
• Sweet Soulfood in New Orleans, LA
• Pure Soul Plant-Based Eats in Sacramento, CA

Vegan Burgers & American Food

No matter where your adventures take you in the US, you can always count on finding one thing: Burgers. That was of little comfort to vegans and vegetarians along for the ride for many years, but the game has changed to include plant-based burgers, too!

It’s so exciting to find even a simple, plain, charbroiled patty of plant protein without fail, now that so many fast food restaurants have incorporated vegan options into their regular menus. Cross-contamination can be a concern for the particularly sensitive, however, so you may want to ask for your meal to be microwaved if there isn’t a dedicated grill or fryer space for vegan options.

If you plan your pit stops out right, you can drive right on through some incredible 100% vegan fast food eateries along the road:

• Plant Power Fast Food
• Next Level Burger / Next Level Clucker (Nationwide)
• Odd Burger (Canada)
• Earth Burger (San Antonio, San Marcos, & Dallas, TX)
• Francis (Minneapolis, MN)
• Hart House (Southern California)
• Monty’s Good Burger (Southern California)
• Burger Patch (Sacramento, CA)
• VeganBurg (San Francisco, CA)
• Mr. Charlie’s (San Francisco & Southern California)
• Jerrell’s BETR BRGR (New York, NY)
• PLNT Burger (NY, MA, PA, MD, VA, DC)
• Slutty Vegan (Atlanta, GA & Birmingham, AL & New York, NY & Dallas, TX)
• Twisted Plants (Milwaukee & Cudahy, WI)
• Wizard Burger (Albany, NY)
• Meta Burger (Denver, CO)

Vegan Takeout Near Me & Food Delivery Options

Did you know that when you’re away from home, you can still find vegan or vegan-friendly spots that will deliver right to you door, whether it’s at a hotel, hostel, or AirBnB? Search through GrubHub, DoorDash, Postmates, or UberEats and you could uncover a whole trove of new options.

There are many ghost kitchens popping up that have no storefronts, no dining rooms, and no restaurant staff, but are churning out incredible meals right under the radar. You’ll only find these options on the delivery platforms, which you can also filter by dietary preferences. Plus, if you’re renting a car or can walk to the location, you can save money on the delivery fees by picking up your food and taking it to go.

Whether you want to travel the world or just taste it, finding vegan food should never limit your adventure. With a little research, a helping hand from technology, and friendly locals, you’ll become a pro at hunting down the best eats in any town. Go forth with an open mind and empty stomach to discover your new favorite foods!

Finding Vegan Restaurants Near Me on Happy Cow

Since 1999, HappyCow has been the leading website on vegetarian and vegan restaurants around the world. There is no other directory nearly as complete, with over 50,000 businesses in 180 countries listed, plus more than 140,000 reviews from travelers and locals alike.

The information is entirely crowd-source, which means you’ll get tips, tricks, and advice from people like you about what places are worth trying and which dishes are the best. You can use the filters to pick out restaurants and grocery stores that are completely vegan, vegetarian, or are veg-friendly. This is especially helpful when you’re visiting foreign countries since it covers many smaller places that otherwise don’t have their own websites, aren’t translated into English, or simply aren’t covered anywhere else.

Plus, you can download the HappyCow app to have instant access on your phone even when you don’t have an internet connection. The maps are invaluable for tiny market stalls or outposts that don’t have proper street addresses too.

How To Find Vegan Restaurants Near Me On Yelp

Anyone that lives in the US is likely well acquainted with Yelp. With 105.6 million monthly unique users contributing reviews and photos, it covers everything you can possibly think of. It’s also big in Canada, Germany, and the United Kingdom, with more entries found across the world, but quality can vary greatly. These listing aren’t always complete, up to date, or accurate at all, so it’s smart to double-check the information with the businesses themselves.

Searching with Yelp is easy; just type in your location and the type of vegan food you want to get started. Yelp pulls up all of the reviews that mention the word “vegan,” which isn’t necessarily helpful. Sometimes that means it will bring you to the one review saying, “…and there was NOTHING vegan on the menu!” That’s why it’s important to do you homework, reading through review thoroughly before locking in plans.

This is also a great resource to check before going on a vegan date. Browse through the options ahead of time and you’ll have back up spots if your favorite choice isn’t open or you aren’t able to get a reservation. Such a huge help!

Yelp also has a mobile app for Apple and Android that can automatically detect your location for a quicker, more seamless search on the go.

If we missed any of your favorite places to eat vegan, please do give them a shout out in the comments below. Many thanks to Hannah Kaminsky for her help with this article.

The post Vegetarian & Vegan Restaurants Near Me Guide — How to Find “Vegan Food Near Me” appeared first on World of Vegan.

The Windy City, Chi-town, the City of Big Shoulders—Chicago, Illinois has more nicknames than a small-town yearbook. Home to world-class museums, architecture that defined a movement, and Jazz greats that forever changed the American soundscape, it’s been a cultural epicenter since the early 1900s.

With great innovators and intellectuals comes great food, so it’s no surprise that there’s an incredible culinary scene to match. From innovative vegan eateries to hidden gems, come explore all of the amazing vegan food Chicago has to offer!

Ready to Find The Best Vegan Restaurants Chicago Has To Offer?

What began as a tiny dot on the map, shaped by the iron and steel industry, soon grew to be a destination-worthy metropolis. People of all nationalities and walks of life flocked to the burgeoning urban landscape, bringing with them a diverse array of unique cuisines.

That influence is readily seen, and tasted, to this day. Most importantly, there’s a wealth of completely vegan restaurants with offerings that could easily rival Michelin-starred establishments. For every plant-based craving, there’s a place to find it in the Windy City. Check out this array of the best vegan restaurants in Chicago when planning your next excursion and enjoy some of the best vegan food they have to offer!

Fanciful Fine Dining — Gourmet Vegan Restaurants in Chicago

For a special occasion, date night, or simply the desire to indulge in your foodie fantasies, you can get incredible gourmet meals from passionate chefs, elevating the craft to unimaginable heights. Fancy vegan restaurants in Chicago most definitely exist, and they’re calling your name!

Fancy Plants Kitchen and Cafe

What starts the day as a casual coffee and sandwich joint transforms into a foodie fantasy at night. These sporadic special event menus are more like intimate dinner parties than a conventional restaurant experience—If your best friend was a gourmet chef, of course. Themes from traditional Italian to whimsical 90s throwbacks make every experience unique and unforgettable.

Alinea (Not all vegan—but they have a vegan prix fixe menu)

Ranked as one of the best restaurants in the entire world for many years running, it would be a grave injustice to overlook Chef Grant Achatz’s groundbreaking work in molecular gastronomy. Although the entire establishment is not plant-based, a completely vegan prix fixe is easily arranged upon request. When you really want to go all out, this is the place to do it; reservations can go skyward at $350 per person.

Vegan Comfort Food & Soul Food in Chicago

For a taste of home cooking served with a side of nostalgia, look no further than these universally comforting, crowd-pleasing menus.

The Chicago Diner (Vegan Diner)

If you walk away from the table here hungry, you’ve done something terribly wrong. How could you pass up the opportunity to grab a vegan poutine, smothered in gravy and gooey cheese? Don’t forget the seitan Reuben and a vegan milkshake while you’re at it because they’re classics, after all.

Find a friend to try the Monte Cristo sandwich too, because how often can you pick up French toast with your hands and chow down on meatless ham, eggs, and cheese all at the same time? A food coma may follow that kind of feast, but you would only regret leaving without trying a bit of everything.

The Black Vegan Restaurant (Vegan Soul Food)

For some of the best vegan soul food Chicago has to offer, look no further than the portobello wings, tangy chicken wraps, and saucy tofu ribs served up here.

Kitchen 17 (Vegan Deep Dish Pizza)

If there’s one food synonymous with Chicago, it’s deep-dish pizza. This is the place to get your fill of massive slices loaded with marinara, cheese, and all the toppings you can fit on a pie. If you can’t make it in during your visit, they also sell frozen vegan pizzas online.

Majani Soulfull Vegan Cuisine (African & Southern Comfort Food)

Meaning “green leaf” in Swahili, Manjani is a fast-casual homage to African and Southern comfort food. Three locations throughout the city offer the same incredibly hearty plates with jerk tofu, collard greens, mac and cheese, and all the sorrel you can drink.

Plant Junkie

After just a single hit, you’ll be addicted to these comforting creations inspired by global flavors. Far more nutritious than your average junk food, this is a menu that will satisfy all cravings.

Sam & Gertie’s (Vegan Jewish Deli)

Matzo ball soup is also known as Jewish penicillin, and they definitely have something to cure what ails you at this New York-style deli. Load up on Eastern European Jewish classics such as knishes, chopped liver, smoked whitefish salad, babka, bagel sandwiches, and latke, all without any animal products.

Soul Veg City (Vegan Soul Food)

Loosen your belt, because you’re going to want to devour everything on the menu at Soul Veg City! From salads to smoothies to vegan pizza, mac and cheese, and their famous vegan shrimp po boy — there’s truly something for everyone at this vegan soul food spot in Chicago.

Upton’s Breakroom

Brought to you by the same company putting out seitan specialties, canned soups, prepared meals, and so much more nationwide, you can expect great things in store. I’m talking about fried bacon mac and cheese, fully loaded nachos, and gut-busting sandwiches. Even if you go on your lunch break, you might need a break after indulging in such a monster meal.

Vegan World Cafe

Serving up a heaping helping of soul, ribs, country-fried steak, and meatloaf are just a few of the proteins turning heads and converting omnivores since this cozy, homespun restaurant opened its doors in Cook County. Come hungry and leave room for seconds.

Wholesome & Healthy Vegan (and Raw) Restaurants in Chicago

Eating well shouldn’t mean sacrificing great taste. These restaurants know how to serve up whole foods that will make your stomach and tastebuds happy.

B’Gabs Goodies

From life coach to caterer and now restauranteur, Chef Gabrielle Darvassy approaches food with health in mind. Emphasizing fresh fruit, veggies, nuts, and seeds, everything is minimally processed to stay as nutritious as possible.

Chicago Raw (Vegan Raw Food Restaurant)

Hold the heat! Living plant-based foods designed to nourish the body and feed the soul are ready to grab and go. You can also pre-order weekly meal plans to put healthy eating on autopilot.

Conscious Plates (Alkaline Food)

Beginning life as a pop-up that proved to have staying power, emphasis is placed on alkalizing foods and a more holistic approach to wellness overall. Fajita fries and oyster “wings” make the path to health a delicious one, indeed.

Healthy Substance

Satisfying and substantial, this casual café specializes in Latin staples made from scratch with plant-based whole foods. The tamales are not to be missed, but you can’t go wrong with an oversized burrito any day of the week.

Kale My Name

Kale yeah! There are plenty of green goodies as the name might suggest, but this 100% plant-based restaurant is no spartan fare. Beyond the salads and soup, their brunch menu has won accolades and awards as the best in town.

Loving Heart Vegan Café

You’ll love this compact café known for avocado toasts, buddha bowls, and fruity blends for a quick pick-me-up. It’s a lunchtime hot spot revered for its lighter American and fusion foods.

Zest Raw Vegan Eats (Raw)

Both a café and culinary school, you can get an education on raw foods just by enjoying an uncooked meal on site. Look into getting certified as a raw vegan chef with their in-depth curriculum if you’re hungry to learn more.

Vegan Fast Food Restaurants in Chicago

Hungry and in a hurry? No worries! You can quickly grab a vegetarian bite to eat that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. You can also visit our vegan fast food restaurant guide to see your vegan options at generic fast food and chain restaurants in the US.

Fry Like an Eagle

Spread your [cauliflower] wings and fry! Roosting inside Logan Arcade, this fun snack stand focuses on meatless hot dogs and, of course, all sorts of extra-crispy deep-fried delights.

Kal’ish

Fried chicken seems to be having a moment, and these “clucker” sandwiches, nuggets, and strips are all serious contenders. Go “naked” with just a dipping sauce or dress up your chick with a leafy green salad; there’s no wrong way to chicken out.

Native Foods Chicago

Imported from Southern California, Native Foods Chicago is a small chain that has taken root in four different Chicago locations. Grab a burger, sandwich, or bowl while you’re on the go; there’s something for the whole family here.

International Attractions

The word “melting pot” could be used to describe the diverse flavors found within the city proper, but that does a disservice to the distinct individual cultures celebrated in their own rights. Get a taste of the world without leaving the city limits thanks to these establishments that pay homage to manifold origins.

Alice and Friends’ Vegan Kitchen

Don’t be thrown off by the wonderland theme; you won’t fall down any rabbit holes while perusing the extensive menu of pan-Asian options. Only someone mad as a hatter would leave without a bowl of wonton soup, but it’s hard to resist the satay skewers, curries, noodles, and more.

Amitabul (Vegan Korean Buddhist Restaurant)

A rare opportunity to taste authentic Buddhist Korean cuisine, there’s simply no better choice for bi bim bop, tofu mandoo, or a diverse range of savory vegetable pancakes. Pro tip: Ask for extra kimchi with everything, which they make from scratch and ferment in-house.

Art of Dosa (Vegan Indian Restaurant)

Impossibly thin, crisp, and visually stunning, properly made dosa really are works of art. True masters of their craft, cooks at this humble stall located in Revival Food Hall wrap and roll incredible combinations featuring this classic flatbread every day of the week.

Arya Bhavan (Vegan Indian Food)

Enjoy aromatic tikka masala, palak paneer, and mango lassi without worrying about accidental dairy or meat. These Indian staples are all guaranteed vegan! Double up on the garlic naan, because you’ll want extra to soak up every drop of those rich sauces.

Bloom

Flourishing in Wicker Park, raw, cooked, and allergy-aware options invite eaters of all stripes to get a bite from across the globe. Start with choux au poivre and end with flan; you’ll get a world tour without ever leaving your seat.

Boon Café (Palestinian and Indian Fusion Cuisine)

Located in Nooridge, this café isn’t exclusively vegan or even vegetarian, but they offer an extensive vegan section on their menu. Try their vegan chapli which is ground vegan meat served with seasoned Indian spices, pulled mushroom bbq burger, channa chaat (fries smothered in chickpea curry with cilantro sauce), and kefta po boys.

Casa Yari (Latin Fusion Cuisine)

Casa Yari’s is not exclusively vegan, but the menu offers up many vegan versions of their dishes. They can swap out their meat-centric dishes with fried oyster mushrooms, crispy cauliflower, soy curls, seitan, and jackfruit. In some dishes, vegan cheese can be subbed, making lots of solid vegan choices for almost everything on their menu!

Fons Empanadas (America’s First Vegan Empanada Shop)

Brightly colored pastry wraps each of these handmade vegan empanadas, stuffed with everything from sweet potato chili to margarita pizza ingredients. Don’t forget to snag a sweet apple cinnamon or chocolate and banana empanada for dessert before you go.

Quesadilla La Reina del Sur

This spot is a solid option for vegetarian Mexican cuisine. Choose from dishes like vegan chicharrones quesadillas, nopales huaraches, vegan pork carnitas tacos, and veggie cubana tortas. Vegan cheese is available upon request.

Urban Vegan (Vegan Thai Food)

A fantastic spot for vegan Asian food, you’ll find an array of menu items such as Tom Kah Kai with soy chicken, shrimp spinach noodle with soy shrimp, Pad See-Ew, and vegan orange chicken. This full, sit-down restaurant has something for everyone to enjoy!

Vegan Plate (Vegan Thai Food)

Thai it, you’ll like it! Enjoy classic Pad Thai and spring rolls with peanut sauce with an upscale ambiance for an affordable night on the town. Traditional tofu is always available, but you can splurge on more exciting proteins like soy shrimp, soy pepper steak, or soy chicken nuggets, too.

Veggie House Chicago (Vegan and Vegetarian Chinese Food)

Nestled in Chinatown, Veggie House Chicago offers an extensive array of vegan and vegetarian items on their menu. Choose from entrees like Broccoli Soy Beef, Salt and Pepper Soy Shrimp, Singapore Noodles, or the Orange Chicken made with king oyster mushrooms. This casual spot is a perfect place for sharing delicious Chinese dishes with family and friends.

Vegan Bakeries and Ice Cream Shops in Chicago

Go ahead: eat dessert before dinner. When faced with so many irresistible sweet choices, it’s really the only rational thing to do. If you can’t make it to one of these sweet spots, check out these vegan bakeries that will ship to your doorstep!

Ingrained (Gluten-Free Vegan Bakery)

It’s hard to believe, but all the mouthwatering cinnamon rolls, bars, truffles, and more are vegan, gluten-free, AND refined sugar-free. Now that’s a mouthful of guilt-free indulgence!

Liberation Kitchen (Vegan Donut Shop)

Free your tastebuds at Chicago’s first vegan-owned donut shop. Slinging fried rings since 2020, 50% of sales benefit Shelter Farm Sanctuary, so you might as well go in for at least a dozen. It’s for a good cause!

Sweet Vegan Bakes (Vegan Bakery and Quick Serve Lunch Spot)

Cakes, cookies, and donuts are just the cherry on top of Chef Cheryl’s edible empire. Though best known for all things frosted and sugar-coated, there are wraps, sandwiches, and other healthy meals to savor here too.

Vaca’s Creamery (Vegan Ice Cream Shop in Chicago)

Don’t have a cow! These frozen treats are all dairy-free and include a wide variety of fun toppings to choose from. Get soft serve ice cream in a cup, cone, or spun into a shake, but don’t forget to add extras like peanut butter magic shell, toasted marshmallows, or confetti cookie dough to make it special.

More Vegan-Friendly Restaurants Chicago Has To Offer

Chicago has you covered when it comes to vegan-friendly restaurants. Although this list is not exhaustive, it offers lots of great options to consider while in the Windy City!

Asian Outpost: This Pan-Asian restaurant offers a “vegan lovers” section of its menu with lots of great options.

BenjYehuda: This shawarma and falafel establishment offers vegan falafel with plenty of toppings that are clearly marked as vegan.

Blaze Pizza: This fast food-style pizza restaurant offers super-clear vegan options for building your own pizza, including dough, cheese, vegan chorizo, and veggies.

Blue Sushi Sake Grill: This sushi bar offers a generous vegan maki section of its menu. Order from items like sweet potato tempura, plant-based tuna, bbq eggplant eel, and more!

Brightwok Kitchen: This Asian-inspired bowl-themed restaurant offers tofu in its customizable hot bowls and cold salads.

Casati’s: This upscale Italian restaurant offers a vegan section of its menu with items like vegan gnocchi, truffle mushroom pizza, and fried artichokes.

Chicago Curry House: This Indian and Nepali restaurant offers clearly labeled vegan options on its extensive menu.

Dao Thai: Offers clearly marked vegan and gluten-free options on their menu.

El Nuevo Mexicano: Skip to the vegan portion of their menu to select from items like vegan enchiladas, fajitas, and burritos.

Epic Burger: Choose their Beyond Burger that even comes with vegan mayo. Huzzah!

Honey Berry Cafe: A great breakfast and brunch spot, order items like their vegan breakfast hash with a Beyond Burger patty and mushrooms, a vegan breakfast sandwich with marinated tofu and avocado, or a Beyond Burger on a vegan bun!

La Cantina: This casual Mexican restaurant offers a separate vegan menu including dishes with vegan beef, vegan cheese and sour cream, chimichangas, and more.

Protein Bar: Offering healthy, bowls, salads, and shakes. Items that can be made vegan are clearly marked.

Rooh: This progressive Indian restaurant and cocktail bar offers a few vegan mains and appetizers.

Roti Modern Mediterranean: This casual, fast-food Mediterranean chain offers several dishes that are clearly marked as vegan.

Sunda: This Asian fusion restaurant offers some vegan sushi roll options and other mains like curry and noodle dishes.

sweetgreen: Known for its salads and warm bowls, they offer tofu, nuts, and seeds in place of meat.

The Northman: This beer and cider garden offers a vegan sausage sandwich on a pretzel bun.

True Food Kitchen: This eco-chic chain offers up new American cuisine with clearly marked vegan options like spinach and mushroom pizza, edamame guacamole, and charred cauliflower.

Vermilion: This Indian-Chinese fusion restaurant offers a vegetarian section on its menu, which can be made vegan upon request.

Ready to Plan A Vegan Chicago Adventure?

Come to Chicago for the sights and sounds but stay for the food. There’s so much to eat, it’s worth a trip for the incredible culinary creations alone. There’s so much great vegan food Chicago has to offer! Whether you are looking for the best vegan restaurants in Chicago or the best vegetarian restaurants in Chicago, we hope this guide will be helpful as you plan your next adventure.

More Vegan City Restaurant Guides

• Austin, Texas Vegan Restaurants
• Kauaii, Hawaii Vegan Restaurants
• Cleveland Vegan Restaurants
• Denver Vegan Restaurants
• San Francisco, California Vegan Restaurants
• Berkeley, California Vegan Restaurants
• Oakland, California Vegan Restaurants
• Vegan in NYC
• Vegan Guide to Chile

We hope you enjoyed this guide sharing the best vegan restaurants Chicago, Illinois has to offer! If we missed any of your favorite vegan Chicago restaurants, please show them some love in the comments below.

Many thanks to Hannah Kaminsky for her tremendous research and help with this article. Many of the plant-based restaurant photos in this city guide were taken by Hannah.

The post Top 60 Vegan-Friendly Restaurants in Chicago You Shouldn’t Miss appeared first on World of Vegan.

Certain attractions turn up in every San Francisco guidebook. The sea lions at Pier 39, the cable cars, the Golden Gate Bridge, and so on, and so forth. Someone who’s never even set foot on the left coast could probably list the very same roundup of must-see sights and for good reason.

They’re unarguably iconic pieces of the city that add to its unique allure. However, if you only browse the list of the city’s greatest hits, you’ll miss out on richer adventures that would exceed even the most accommodating itinerary.

If you travel like me, mealtimes and restaurants are the most important part of the itinerary. Your options are nearly endless in this vegan-friendly mecca. Here you can stop just about anywhere and grab a bite to eat.

For a truly unforgettable culinary experience, the 100% plant-based establishments here are worth working into your schedule. So let’s explore the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants in San Francisco!

Best Five-Star Vegan Food In San Francisco

Put on your nice shoes and live like a true gourmet! Exceptionally talented chefs are at the forefront of innovative cuisine, crafting meals beyond your wildest dreams. If you only have time for a quick visit, make sure you hit at least one of these bastions of fine vegan dining.

BAIA

Founded by celebrity chef Matthew Kenney, you’ll find elevated Italian classics like lasagna, pasta, and pizza, plated with the finesse you’d expect of this James Beard Awards Rising Star nominee. Don’t worry about leaving hungry. Hearty plant-based meatballs served over soft polenta and buttery garlic knots make that an utter impossibility.

Peña Pachamama (Vegan Bolivian Raw and Cooked Food)

For dinner and a show, this North Beach institution is your go-to hot spot. Offering a menu of half-raw, half-cooked food, you can savor Bolivian delicacies while enjoying a night of music, dancing, and special performances. Pass the yucca fries and don’t miss a beat!

Shizen (Vegan Sushi Restaurant)

This is how we roll! It’s hands-down the best vegan sushi in SF. Shizen combines classic Japanese Buddhist culinary techniques with local, seasonal ingredients. This combination sushi bar and izakaya makes maki that you must see to believe. Seaweed pearls, spicy tofu, and actual FIRE? Yes! Order the “Candlestick” roll for a real showstopper that comes to your table spouting actual flames. Shizen SF is a must-visit spot.

Wildseed

Emphasizing seasonal ingredients with a vegetable-forward menu, this is California cuisine at its best. This is my personal favorite “special occasion” restaurant for celebrations. They offer plenty of botanically blended cocktails to raise a toast with. Even if you don’t have a budget to feast, make sure you go for happy hour to take advantage of discounted bites and drinks.

Delicious And Healthy Vegan Food In SF

Eat well, be well, and enjoy every bite! You can get great meals that won’t weigh you down while still treating your taste buds.

Beloved Café

Deeply nourishing smoothies and superfood bowls are the main draws to this serene oasis in the bustling Mission District. Even if all you do is sit at the hand-carved wooden bar and take in a pot of herb tea, you’ll feel fully recharged from the zen atmosphere.

Cha-Ya SF (Vegan Japanese Restaurant)

From curry udon to stuffed miso-glazed eggplant, the flavors here are rich, not heavy. This family-operated vegan Japanese restaurant crafts contemporary Buddhist cuisine that everyone can appreciate. The Creamy Yasai noodle soup is one of my favorite soups of all time. Cha-ya also has a second location in Berkeley, California on Shattuck Avenue.

The Happy Vegan

Looking for no gluten, soy, or GMOs? No problem! Though it’s pickup and delivery only, you don’t need to sit down before devouring these loaded bagel sandwiches and toasts. Order ahead for truly fast food that you won’t regret later.

Judalicious

A throwback to the hippie era of the 70s, you’ll find green juices, hot soup, raw desserts, and sprouts galore. Grab an acai bowl and take a hike. You’re just steps away from Land’s End for a hike or Ocean Beach for surfing on a nice day. This spot is a vegan raw food lover’s dream!

Nourish Café

This cafe is home to healthy salads, hearty grain bowls, and baked goods made without refined flours or sugars. Located in two outposts across the city, it may sound spartan at first but makes no concessions when it comes to flavor. The grilled cheese sandwiches made with fresh pesto and tomatoes are downright decadent. The almond cake, drenched in chocolate ganache, is ultra-moist and utterly crave-worthy right down to the last crumb.

Wholesome Bakery (Vegan Bakery)

Best known for their decadent cakes, soft cookies, and buttery scones, you’d never know that these treats are all gluten-free and have no refined sugars. If you forget to leave room for dessert, don’t worry; they also ship their treats nationwide.

Vegan Casual Fare And Comfort Food Classics

From nostalgic, homestyle dishes to simple sandwiches, you can fulfill all your comfort food cravings, no matter how mainstream or obscure. Head to the San Francisco hills to find these treasures.

Beach’n

If you love vegan brunch and all-day breakfast, then you’ll love this plant-based restaurant where everything is made in house. Choose from breakfast burritos, french toast, bagels and cream cheese, hash cakes, and more. Enjoy an extensive selection of single-origin, pour-over coffee, tea, and juices.

Loving Hut

This worldwide vegan restaurant chain with over 200 locations has one independent outpost that calls San Francisco home. The extensive menu runs the gamut from Vietnamese to Chinese, with a dose of classic American fare in the mix. Spoon into steaming bowls of vegan pho while your dining companions dig into pesto noodles. Even for the indecisive diner, you really can have it all!

Mr. Charlie’s

If you miss the nostalgic memories of eating at McDonald’s, you can have that again—but without the cruelty. Check out Mr. Charlie’s for similarly branded but completely vegan burgers, fries, and sandwiches. Grab a “Not a Double Double” cheeseburger, Not Chicken Nuggets, Big Chuck (with two Impossible patties, and Not a Chicken Sandwich to satisfy your fast-food cravings.

Next Level Burger / Next Level Clucker

Starting a revolution with burgers and shakes, this national chain now features a twin concept that focuses on plant-based chicken as well. They’re both housed in the same Whole Foods Market so it’s one-stop shopping for your kale, fries, and nuggets.

Rad Radish

Drop into this fast-casual restaurant located in the Hayes Valley District for delicious vegan comfort food. Grab a breakfast sandwich made with JUST Egg, vegan cheese, and your choice of tempeh bacon or Beyond Sausage. Choose from several signature pizzas, truffled mac and cheese, an Impossible Burger, a crispy chick’n sandwich, oat milk-based soft serve, and much more.

VeganBurg (Vegan Fast Food Burger Restaurant)

Hailing from Singapore, this is the first US location for the burgeoning vegan burger chain. They’re on a mission to make fast food sustainable. They’ve succeeded with their variety of plant-based patties, rich sauces, and toppers, with loaded fries on the side.

Veganburg offers a vegan kid’s meal and a bright, modern, and clean ambiance. They are located right at Haight and Ashbury in San Francisco. The founder of VeganBurg, Alex Tan, is one of the sweetest human beings on the planet. Don’t forget to grab a cone of plant-based soft serve for dessert!

Vegan Mob (Vegan Soul Food)

Taking the Bay Area by storm, you can now find a food truck with the same smoky, slow-cooked BBQ proteins roving the Mission District for a quick fix. Get a combo plate to try a bite of as many sides as possible, because they’re all delicious. Their original location is right across the bay in Oakland, California.

Best Choices For Global Cuisine In The Bay Area

When you’ve got a craving for adventure but don’t want to leave The Golden City, you can get a taste of the whole world right within this 7×7-mile peninsula.

Enjoy Vegetarian Restaurant

Although vegetarian is in the restaurant name, be assured that their expansive menu is indeed all-vegan! Enjoy dishes with mock bbq pork, chicken, tofu, prawns, soy sea bass, spare ribs, and taro lamb. Choose from a large appetizer selection, several Chef Specials, tofu-based dishes, spicy entrees, and noodle and rice-based delights.

Golden Era Vegan Restaurant

It’s the golden age of plant-based foods, and it’s always been that way in this gleaming Civic Center Asian-fusion eatery.

IndoChine Vegan

Craving sizzling teriyaki vegan chicken and sushi rolls? Add a side of kale salad and a tall glass of Thai iced tea, and you’ve found your new favorite spot. For the best experience, invite a group to tackle the extensive menu and enjoy a wider range of dishes.

Lucky Creation (Vegan Dim Sum)

Get your dim sum and then sum when you visit San Francisco’s Chinatown. There’s perhaps no place else on earth where you can get Taro Fish, which is a fried taro root shaped to look like whole sea bass, served family-style. Everyone should be so lucky as to eat here at least once. Any of the entrées are enough for two meals but save room for dessert! The cheesecakes are legendary.

Even if you do leave your heart in San Francisco, don’t leave your appetite at home! The dynamic culinary scene ensures a new and exciting dining experience every time.

Om Sabor

Located in Phonobar, this Latin International Fusion restaurant offers an impressive menu. Enjoy their jackfruit crab cakes, ceviche tostadas or clam chowder (made with oyster mushrooms), truffle mac and cheese, and Impossible Burger with crispy string onions, coconut cheese, and salsa macha aioli!

Sky Cafe

This all-vegan restaurant offers comfort food classics and international dishes. Its rotating menu includes items like a chicken and waffle sandwich, laing (Phillipino dish), pad gra pow (Thai dish), a banh mi with teriyaki tofu, wet burritos, North African “lamb” kebabs, Korean kimchi fried rice, and Japanese Chicken katsu. It’s a perfect spot for those looking to expand their palates and learn more about global cusine!

Thai Idea (Vegan Thai Restaurant)

Thai it, you’ll like it! Indulge your cravings without the fear of fish sauce or shrimp paste holding you back; there are only plant-based proteins in this kitchen. You can’t go wrong with any of the standard curries or noodle stir-fries, but you must try the Wing Bomb appetizer, which are crispy vegan drumsticks glazed in a sticky, sweet, and spicy sauce.

Sadly Closed Doors

Above Ground

Sadly this spot closed in 2021, but we wanted to share it as a historical reference of a beautiful vegan eatery. Brought to you by the masterminds behind Millennium Restaurant, this was their more casual spin-off in the style of a speakeasy, complete with an unassuming, graffiti-covered entryway and low, romantic lighting. The pizzas were their claim to fame, made with thin, darkly blistered crusts and bubbling cashew cheese. Above Ground is dearly missed!

Gracias Madre

The first completely plant-based establishment to put down roots in the storied Mission District, Gracias Madre, has sadly closed their doors after 16 years. They still have two other locations in southern California so make sure to stop by when you’re in LA! Try their handmade tortillas with caramelized onion and sweet potato flautas, soy chorizo tacos, and so much more. Go for brunch to enjoy a horchata latte and keep the good energy flowing.

More Vegan-Friendly Restaurants In San Francisco

San Francisco has you covered when it comes to vegan-friendly restaurants. These options offer a diverse array of plant-based dining options for those seeking delicious vegan and vegetarian fare. Options may change depending on seasons and menu updates, so be sure to check the menu before you head out!

• Bizza – Choose from several vegan signature pizzas from this pizzeria with toppings like vegan buffalo chicken, pepperoni, steak, ham, bacon, and mushrooms.
• Burma Superstar – This Burmese restaurant offers several clearly marked vegan dishes like firecracker cauliflower, fried silken tofu, eggplant with garlic sauce, and Burmese fried rice.
• Chisme Cantina – This Mexican Fusion restaurant serves all-day breakfast with vegan options like fried plantain and jackfruit tacos. Other vegan tacos and burritos are clearly marked with lots of options!
• Cybelle’s Front Room – This Italian restaurant offers plenty of vegan sandwiches, calzones, pizza, and more.
• Dinosaurs – This Vietnamese establishment offers sandwiches with vegan fillings like crispy tofu, taro, and portobello mushrooms.
• Dragoneats – Order a teriyaki tofu vegan banh mi, bowl, or salad at this Vietnamese restaurant.
• Hinodeya Ramen – This chain ramen bar offers plenty of vegan items like their popular creamy ramen and appetizers like spinach gyoza and veggie tempura.
• Moya – This Ethiopian restaurant offers a vegan platter, fluffy injera, and chickpea stew.
• New Eritrea – This Eritrean and Ethiopian restaurant has a vegan section on its menu with plenty of lentil-based stews and vegetables.
• Oren’s Hummus – If you are craving Middle Eastern food, the menu here has clearly marked vegan items like a hummus bowl, lentil soup, and vegetable skewers.
• Patxi’s Pizza – Offers a vegan deep-dish pizza, vegan cheese, and plenty of vegan toppings.
• Señor Sisig – This Mexican-Filipino Fusion restaurant offers a wide array of menu options with tofu as the protein.
• St. Francis Fountain and Candy – This old-fashioned candy shop offers several vegan options which include burgers, sandwiches, diner-style breakfasts, pancakes, and milkshakes.
• Sweet Basil Thai Cuisine – Although the menu includes meat, lots of dishes here can be made vegan, and there is a separate vegan menu.
• Taco Boys – This Mexican restaurant has a separate vegan menu with burritos, tacos, nachos, and quesadillas.
• The Thonglor SF Thai Restaurant – This Asian restaurant has a separate vegan and vegetarian section on its menu and includes plenty of tofu and vegetable dishes, as well as rice and noodles.

More Vegan City Guides

• Oakland Vegan Restaurants
• Berkeley Vegan Restaurants
• Best New York City Vegan Restaurants 
• Cleveland Vegan Restaurants
• Houston Vegan Restaurants in Texas
• Austin Vegan Restaurants in Texas
• Kauaii Vegan Restaurants in Hawaii
• Vegan Guide to Fast Food Restaurants

We hope you enjoyed this guide sharing the best vegan restaurants San Francisco, California has to offer! If we missed any of your favorite San Francisco vegan restaurants, please show them some love in the comments below. Many thanks to Hannah Kaminsky for her help with this article. Video by Michelle Cehn and Toni Okamoto. Cover photo credit: BAIA.

The post The Ultimate San Francisco Vegan Restaurant Guide appeared first on World of Vegan.

As a historically sleepy, small mountain city, you’d be forgiven for initially overlooking this destination for your next big travel adventure. That said, once you know about the rich arts scene, burgeoning craft beer culture, unspoiled natural, and multiple James Beard Award-nominated chefs, it may very well rise to the top of your list.

Asheville, North Carolina has been called the “Paris of the South” by some, referring to the free-spirited attitude that grants locals and visitors alike permission to indulge in the finer things in life, all while wearing muddy hiking boots, if desired. The picturesque Blue Ridge mountains have views that will take your breath away.

With a cosmopolitan feel but easygoing charm, Asheville is regularly voted one of the best places to live in the US, but you don’t need to move here to enjoy it. There’s plenty to take in for thrill-seekers, families with young children, and solo travelers alike. That’s because everyone is welcome, as is readily apparent by the diverse and abundant range of restaurants specially catering to alternative diets.

Plant-based eaters will find their happy place amongst the many vegan-friendly restaurants concentrated in such a tiny town. Clear your calendar and pack your stretchy pants—you won’t want to miss a single bite! Discover new restaurants in Asheville as well as restaurants in downtown Asheville, NC!

Best Vegan And Vegetarian Restaurants in Asheville for Modern American Food

For an upscale, borderline fancy but unfussy meal, you can find elevated cuisine coming from the most creative chefs in the country. Most establishments are largely omnivorous but will happily accommodate a vegan diet with enough advanced notice.

Chestnut

Emphasizing local produce and slow food, these chefs take vegetables seriously. While the exact dishes shift with the seasons, you can expect gourmet delicacies like broccoli rabe risotto, pesto fettuccine, and meatless chorizo hash.

Early Girl Eatery

You don’t have to be an early riser to take advantage of this breakfast-centric menu with clearly labeled vegan options. The tofu scramble is a comforting classic, but the artfully plated grit cake stack is a unique treat, piled high with wilted spinach, red pepper, squash, caramelized onions, shiitake mushrooms, and southern tomato gravy.

Plant

If you can only make it to one special meal, plan to have it at Plant. Widely regarded as the best 100% vegan restaurant around, reviews unanimously rave about the chef-driven approach to gourmet dining without boundaries. That means you can slurp down chewy ramen noodles, dig into raw lasagna, and savor a handmade plant-based cheese board all in the same place.

Best Vegan and Vegetarian Asheville Restaurants For Pub And Bar Food

When you have an embarrassment of riches to pick from, make the most of your time by visiting craft breweries that come with their own wealth of plant-based dishes on the menu. These are the combination restaurants and bars where you can have it all.

Asheville Pizza and Brewing

It’s a brewery, it’s a restaurant, AND it’s a movie theater?! That’s right! Come on by for dinner, drinks, and a show for a complete night of food and fun. The “Did I Mention I’m Vegan” pizza is a bestseller, complete with meatless pepperoni and sausage, red onion, green peppers, mushrooms, black olives, and vegan cheese. You can even ask for it made with a gluten-free crust, too.

Funkatorium

Created by Wicked Weed Brewing, this taproom is dedicated to sour beer. Select a tasting flight from over a dozen varieties on draught and then head to the Biergarten for a hearty meal. Everything labeled with a “V” is vegetarian, so double-check that your selection can be made vegan, too. Beyond Burgers and Buddha bowls are always reliable staples.

Rosetta’s Kitchen & The Buchi Bar

Belly up to this bar for an expansive list of wines, beers, ciders, and kombucha on tap. Head downstairs for happy hour, and then come back upstairs to the café for dinner. You don’t want to miss these hearty, comforting, and healthy classics that range from chili cheese fries to brown rice Buddha bowls.

Best Vegan Soul Food Restaurants in Asheville

Southern food, soul food, and simple American comfort food always hit the spot. Luckily, you’re never too far from these easy eats anywhere in Asheville. Some restaurants serve meat but have vegan and vegetarian options clearly marked on the menu.

Asheville Sandwich Company

You don’t need to navigate this sandwich shop with trepidation; numerous vegan delights abound on the bill of fare, well beyond the breaded entrees. There’s even vegan ranch for dipping your fried Brussels sprouts, and vegan ice cream to blend into a rich milkshake for dessert!

While the buffalo cauliflower stands out as the most popular main attraction, it’s equally challenging to resist the signature Whistle Stop. This dish features fried green tomatoes paired with vegan pimento cheese.

Biscuit Head

It’s easy to fall head-over-heels for these buttery, flaky quick breads. You can choose a vegan and gluten-free base to slather with gravy or turn into a sandwich stuffed with veggie sausage.

Green Sage Café

Indulge in healthy yet hearty staples that satisfy both sweet and savory cravings. The well-documented list of plant-based options offers abundant choices. Try the smashed falafel burger for a creative take on a classic American favorite. Don’t miss their spicy twist on the kimchi Reuben. With three city locations, make a plan to stop by—even if just for an oat and coconut-based mocha milkshake.

The Smokin’ Onion

Slinging some of the best vegan food in Asheville, this food truck is on the move! Keep tabs on their travels through Instagram. This way, you can catch glimpses of their acclaimed meatless sliders, fried pickles, and fresh wraps. These delicious offerings typically sell out in short order!

The Trashy Vegan

What started out as a food truck has become a brick-and-mortar restaurant! Call it “gourmet garbage” or just straight-up good eats; these burgers and loaded fries go hard on flavor without any concern for etiquette or pretentiousness. Order vegan cheeseburgers, tot burgers, chick’n sandwiches, and even a donut burger! Get a side of fries, soy curls, or mini loaded fries… it’s so good!

Best Vegan and Vegetarian Restaurants in Asheville With Healthy Food Options

If you prefer wholesome, unprocessed meals and lighter fare, there are plenty of options for you to refuel! These fresh ingredients with fast service won’t disappoint.

Dobra Tea

This Eastern tea room has vegetarian offerings with plenty of vegan ones as well. Choose from their vegan cheese plate, their Kale Caesar salad with dairy-free dressing and vegan cashew seed parmesan, a vegan Cuban, tempeh banh mi, and more.

Laughing Seed Café

International inspirations manifest in meals that leave you light and well-nourished, with clearly labeled vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free options throughout. No matter how picky your dining companions are, there’s truly something here for everyone. Like it spicy? Go for the Buffalo cauliflower tacos. Want it raw? Try the zucchini noodles with pesto and cashew cheese. Craving an old-school deli classic? The Reuben sandwich made with house-cured sweet potato or tempeh pastrami stacks up nicely.

Mountain Juicery

Family-owned and fully plant-based, this is your one-stop shop for cold-pressed juices, smoothies, nut milks, elixirs, and wellness shots. Refuel the right way, without sacrificing great taste. Plenty of these blends, such as the “My Date With Chocolate” taste like decadent desserts, but are made from whole foods with real benefits.

Pulp + Sprout

Squeeze the day with cold-pressed juices, seasonal soups, stacked sandwiches, smoothies, and açai bowls. Even the raw cheesecakes are organic and nutrient-dense, made from nuts, not dairy, so be sure to leave room for dessert.

Simple Cafe and Juice Bar

If you are looking for a healthy spot with a menu to please mixed crowds, Simple Cafe is a great choice. They offer healthy juices and smoothies, and vegan choices are plentiful and marked clearly on the menu. Try their carrot lox bagel with vegan cashew cream cheese, vegan black bean breakfast burrito, vegan sausage, egg, and cheese muffin with spicy vegan mayo, vegan tempeh reuben, and more!

Best Restaurants In Asheville, NC for Global Cuisine: Caribbean, Ethiopian, Middle Eastern, East Asian, and Indian Food

Variety is the spice of life! You can get your thrills any day of the week when you have a world of flavors right at your fingertips. Leave your passport but take your appetite for this culinary adventure. Some restaurants serve meat, but have vegan and vegetarian options clearly marked on the menu.

Addissae

Ethiopian cuisine is already very vegan friendly, but this innovative establishment takes it one step further by making traditionally meaty meals with plant-based options, such as their richly spiced tempeh tibbs. Your best bet is to go for the vegetarian Messob to get a taste of everything.

Chai Pani

While solidly an omnivorous ode to Indian cuisine, you can rest assured that you won’t accidentally get a dish with meat or ghee. Ask for the separate “special diets” menu to get a confidently plant-based meal, with plenty of gluten-free possibilities built in as well. Take advantage of unique offerings you won’t find anywhere else, like the incredibly crisp okra fries. Even if you hate the typically slimy pods, this will make you see (and taste) them in a whole new light.

Gypsy Queen Cuisine

This deli and food truck offers Lebanese street food, with lots of vegan choices that are clearly marked on the menu. Try their hummus, baba ghanouj, Lebanese fries, fried cauliflower, fresh-baked Lebanese flatbread, falafel salad, and beet shawarma wrap, just to name a few of the options. They also cater!

Nine Mile

Specializing in Caribbean cuisine, served with laid-back vibes and fresh flavors, this dinner-only spot in the heart of the historic Montford neighborhood is all vegetarian and exceptionally vegan-friendly. The only downside to this hotspot is that they don’t take reservations, so come early and be prepared to wait. It’s worth your time, even if it takes 1-2 hours to be seated.

Red Ginger Dimsum and Tapas

Some say this is the hottest ticket in town, and it’s not just because of the handmade steamed dumplings. There’s an entirely separate menu of authentic vegetarian Chinese small plates, so you can mix, match, and share around.

Tahini Jar

This Middle Eastern food truck offers a fully-vegan menu with crispy falafel, warm pita, and a signature shawarma seasoning. They also offer vegan kofta pita made with Beyond Meat, mushroom shawarma, and a falafel platter. If there’s room left, order a side of shawarma seasoned fries and walnut baklava!

Best Vegan Desserts And Treats in Asheville, NC

Let’s not sugarcoat it: There are tons of vegan treats to appease your sweet tooth in Asheville. And you don’t even need to eat your vegetables first! Skip straight to the good stuff by eating your plant-based dessert first!

Back Porch Baking Company

This is a completely vegan wholesale bakery in the Asheville area that specializes in delivering a wide range of baked goods and desserts to various restaurants and coffee shops. They offer vegan cakes, cookies, desserts, muffins, croissants, quiches, and more. Order custom-made desserts or attend one of their pop-up events!

Dough House

This short but sweet list of made-to-order doughnuts comes in chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, or chai, and all can be made gluten-free upon request. Beyond the staples, be on the lookout for special flavors, like the ever-popular Cookies & Cream Crumble or jam-filled favorites.

French Broad Chocolates

Masters in the art of cacao, their collection of vegan bonbons would make an incredible souvenir, if you can manage to get them home before digging in. Satiate your cravings by indulging in their plant-based peanut butter chocolate cake while you’re in the café or book a tour at their factory to see behind the scenes. Most treats do have eggs or dairy, but the ones that don’t more than make up for it.

Gallivant Coffee

This fully vegan coffee shop offers a variety of plant-based milks for their coffee. Choose from their breakfast empanada, savory croissants, cookies, and even a carrot lox bagel with homemade vegan cream cheese!

High Five Coffee

Take five and enjoy a hot latte made with locally roasted beans at one of three locations. What makes them a real treat to visit is their selection of vegan pastries, such as lemon tarts, sesame cookies, and pumpkin muffins.

The Hop

Five compact parlors are committed to promoting happiness through ice cream, which includes dairy-free bases in a regularly rotating array of flavors. They create several bases using oat milk, pepita milk, hemp milk, almond milk, and banana crème. You can also expect at least one sorbet and an option with no sugar added.

Pollen Coffee and Flower Shop

This floral design and multi-roaster cafe is a tranquil and peaceful spot to enjoy a cup of coffee. They offer a large rotating selection of baked goods from local bakers, which always includes some vegan options!

Short Street Cakes

If you’re craving cake, you’ll want to get out here in short order. There’s always at least one vegan cupcake available, with a tempting list of possibilities for special orders.

Sunshine Sammies

You can have your vegan ice cream and eat it with cookies, too! The only plant-based option is a coconut milk-based ice cream sandwiched between two soft chocolate chip cookies, but that’s more than enough to feed your inner child.

Vortex Donuts

Turning conventional menus on their heads, these “twisted” folks go out of their way to label non-vegan donuts rather than the other way around. There are always 4-6 vegan flavors that change daily, both cake and yeasted, but you’ll need to come early for the full selection; supply is limited!

Asheville Vegan Restaurant Spotlights

As you can see, there’s no shortage of delicious food that’s vegan in Asheville, North Carolina. In fact, the most difficult part of finding a vegan meal is deciding where to get it! The availability of vegan-friendly establishments speaks to the compassionate nature of Asheville’s residents, visitors, and entrepreneurs.

The atmosphere is laid back and friendly, with its unique downtown area that highlights local breweries, artists, and musicians. If you’re planning a visit, or have been in Asheville for a while, check out the places below. You’ll be glad you did!

The Laughing Seed Cafe

Tucked away in a peaceful corner of downtown, The Laughing Seed is truly a special dining experience. With decor that’s inspired by nature’s beauty, dining here is similar to being inside a bright and airy greenhouse, where they just happen to serve delicious and creative vegan dishes.

Rosetta’s Kitchen and Buchi Bar

Rosetta’s Kitchen and Buchi Bar is another downtown hot spot, with the perfect hangout for college kids upstairs, that serves up bar favorites like their award-winning chili and french fries. The first floor is the ideal place to relax and enjoy some fresh kombucha that they offer on tap. The prices are right, and the menu will keep you coming back for more. The avocado and tempeh sandwich is a winner!

Plant

If you’re in search of a fine dining experience, the locals know that Plant is a must! Their menu features small plates and entrée options that you will not find anywhere else. The (Plant) Cheese includes a super sharp and tangy cheese, a mild cashew cheese, toasted crostini, pickled vegetables, and sliced apples in Rosemary olive oil.

For the ultimate treat, try the rich and decadent dark chocolate and peanut butter-flavored “Blackout Pie,” that’s served with raspberry sauce and smooth coconut ice cream.

Vortex Doughnuts

Last but not least, check out Vortex doughnuts. This place is not exclusively veg, but features the best darn donuts you will ever have the pleasure of eating. The doughnuts are fresh and flavorful. Their signature vortex of dark chocolate on top of a sugar-covered fried goodness will appear in your dreams, along with the apple fritters and vanilla bean frosted doughnuts.

Check out their Instagram for their daily selection, and watch out for their happy hour where you BOGO free.

More Vegan-Friendly Restaurants in Asheville, NC

Asheville has lots of options when it comes to vegan-friendly restaurants. Although this list is not exhaustive, these are great choices to consider! Please be sure to double-check the restaurant’s website before heading out, as choices may change due to seasonal availability or menu revisions.

• Bear’s Smokehouse – Located in downtown Asheville, their “meat” choices include Impossible meatloaf, smoked tempeh, or portobellos.
• Black Bear BBQ – This BBQ restaurant includes vegan items in its dishes like pulled jackfruit and vegan bbq chicken. They offer one vegan option in each section of its menu.
• Del Vecchios – This Italian restaurant offers vegan cheese for its pizzas, calzones, and strombolis!
• Dilbar – This Indian Street Food restaurant located in downtown Asheville has several vegan items clearly marked on its menu that include Szechuan noodles, roti, dosa, pakora, and stews.
• Farm Burger – This burger restaurant offers a homemade vegan burger with quinoa, black-eyed peas, mushrooms, and sweet potatoes as well as a Beyond Burger. Enjoy a few salad options and fires for the side.
• Gan Shan West – This restaurant offers an array of Asian-inspired dishes, with clearly marked vegan items. Try their mushroom corn dumplings, General Tso’s tofu, and their Japanese fries can be made vegan upon request.
• Gemelli Asheville – This Italian restaurant offers clearly marked vegan items on its menu like focaccia, roasted vegetables, and lasagna, and offers vegan cheese for their build-your-own pizzas.
• Haywood Common – This American-style restaurant has several clearly marked vegan items on its menu like a watermelon salad, portobello burger, tofu bahn mi, tofu poke, and avocado toast.
• Heiwa Shokudo – There are plenty of naturally vegan items at this Japanese restaurant. Find clearly marked options like pan-fried noodles, sweet potato tempura rolls, spicy garlic tofu, and vegan ramen and hot pots.
• Itto Ramen and Japanese Tapas – This ramen noodle bar also offers Japanese tapas with lots of vegan options that are clearly marked on the menu.
• Jerusalem Garden Cafe – This Mediterranean restaurant offers many naturally vegan dishes like hummus, falafel, and stuffed grape leaves. Items are clearly marked as vegan or vegetarian.
• Mela – This Indian restaurant has clearly marked vegan items on its menu like chickpeas cooked in spices, tandoor-roasted eggplant, okra stew, and vegetable vindaloo.
• Overlook Coffee Collective – This woman-owned coffee shop offers almond, coconut, macadamia, oat, and soy milk. They also include vegan options in their grab-and-go menu items, which include assorted pastries and oatmeal.
• Strada Italiano – This family-owned Italian restaurant in downtown Asheville offers a vegan poutine option, a vegan panino, and vegan eggs, gravy, and sausage.
• TacoBilly – This taco bar offers a build-your-own taco with veggie chorizo as the protein, as well as a vegan taco with cumin-roasted sweet potatoes, spinach, black bean hummus, avocado, and coconut crema.
• Taco Temple – This Mexican restaurant in Asheville, NC includes a vegan breakfast taco with sweet potato, veggies, and vegan crema, chips, and guac or salsa, an avocado taco or torta, and a fresh salad with pistachio crema.
• White Labs Brewing Co. – This brewery offers wood-fired pizza with vegan cheese and vegan Italian sausage, an Impossible burger, and salads.

More Vegan City Guides

• Austin, Texas Vegan Restaurants
• Kauaii, Hawaii Vegan Restaurants
• Cleveland, Ohio Vegan Restaurants
• Seattle, Washington Vegan Restaurants
• Berkeley, California Vegan Restaurants
• Oakland, California Vegan Restaurants
• Chicago, Illinois Vegan Restaurants
• Vegan in NYC
• Vegan Guide to Chile

We hope you enjoyed this guide sharing the best vegan restaurants in Asheville, North Carolina! If we missed any of your favorite Asheville vegetarian restaurants, we invite you to highlight them in the comments below. Many thanks to Hannah Kaminsky and Julie Massa for their help with this article. This article may contain affiliate links that support our work at World of Vegan at no extra cost to you. Thanks for stopping by, and we hope to see you again! Cover art credit: Plant

The post Best Vegan and Vegetarian Restaurants in Asheville, NC appeared first on World of Vegan.

That’s what I thought when I stumbled upon photos of the swimming pigs on “Pig Island” and booked my honeymoon trip after my vegan wedding to swim with pigs in the Bahamas. As a vegan traveller and a long-time lover of pigs, I thought that nothing in the world could top seeing pigs run free on their own island experiencing total liberation. I couldn’t wait.

But when my husband and I anchored our boat at pig beach, my excitement quickly faded as I had a sinking feeling that something wasn’t right.

Really, a lot wasn’t right.

Reality Hit—Pig Beach Was Not A Happy Place

As I stepped off our little motor boat I was immediately greeted by a stampede of hungry adult pig snouts desperate for food. I threw my open palms in the air signaling to them that I didn’t have any food on me, and they recognized that and quickly lost interest.

It was then that the babies came running over. “My goodness,” I thought. There were tons of them! 10, maybe 15 piglets. Clearly multiple litters.

I kneeled down to greet them. They were so tiny—and dirty! They explored my hands, my shoes, my camera—everything—with their little snouts covered in sand.

After recovering from the glee of fraternizing with little piglets in paradise, I started to notice the abrasions on their skin. I looked closer and saw that the skin on their snouts was peeling, and they had little scabs and marks on their tiny heads.

The Swimming Pigs Experience Skin Abrasions, Severe Sunburns & Unreliable Food Sources

I thought back to my visits to Farm Sanctuary, and recalled how the staff there would put sunblock on the pigs during the summer because their pale skin is sensitive and can easily burn. Then I started to worry that all of these pigs were suffering from severe burns from being exposed to the strong Caribbean sunshine day after day.

I spoke with Susie Coston, Farm Sanctuary’s National Shelter Director and the best pig expert I know, and asked her about how the prolonged sun exposure might be affecting the pigs. She said:

“Like anyone, too much sun is not good. Pigs can get skin cancer and other illnesses and likely suffer for a long time without treatment.”

She also reminded me that in nature, pigs coat themselves in mud as natural sun protectant, but on the sandy beach in the Caribbean, they don’t have access to mud. For the pigs on the beach in the Exumas, there was little-to-no sun protection for their fair skin. 

So Many Piglets on the Tiny Pig Beach…What Would Happen To Them All?

But it gets worse. Before I even arrived, I wondered what would happen when the pigs started overpopulating the infamous “Pig island,” since there are no predators around and the only limiting resource, I imagined, was food.

It didn’t take long to find the answer to that. This clearly wasn’t a big, lush island that pigs inhabited. From what I saw during my week in the Exumas, all of the pigs were out in the open on the little sandy beach, because that’s where their food source was.

They Would Quickly Overpopulate Pig Island If Left Unchecked

I counted them. There were maybe 20 or 25 pigs total, and most were babies, adolescents, or young mothers. “Where are all the other pigs?” I asked one tour guide who was boasting about how she named all the piglets, and comes every day to feed them pancakes or veggies.

She mumbled something like, “oh, they must be in back.” In back of what? The rocky island, away from their food source? When I pressed further, she quickly changed the subject and no longer had any interest talking with me.

Skeptical and increasingly concerned for the welfare of the world renowned and beloved swimming pigs in the Bahamas, I dug further. 

I Learned That Pigs on Pig Beach Are Slaughtered

Finally, I got a more upfront answer from one of the locals who grew up on a neighboring island. With confidence, she said:

“Oh, they have to kill the pigs or there would be too many—especially when they get aggressive. They can be a danger to the tourists, so they have to go.”

She swiped the edge of her hand against her throat as if her words weren’t clear enough.

I pressed on, asking, “Wait, so the pigs on Pig Beach are killed?”

She replied:

“Yeah—but don’t worry, they roast them on a skewer and eat them, and nothing goes to waste. And no, we don’t serve them at the restaurant here—a lot of people ask that!”

She giggled.

My heart sank.

The entire reason I chose this honeymoon destination to swim with the pigs was because I wanted to see pigs who had never been exploited and who got to live out their entire lives in total freedom.

Boy, was I naive.

This Tourist Attraction Is No Paradise For The Pigs

The photos and videos I had seen online made it seem like pig paradise—no part of me imagined that Pig Island was a “managed” tourist attraction where the pigs were culled.

But suddenly everything made sense.

How else would the number of pigs on this little beach remain in check over the course of decades?

I realized that this is an animal tourist attraction not a whole lot different from the orcas imprisoned at SeaWorld or the orangutans at a zoo. The pigs are collectively managed by the locals, and used for profit.

Local guides, Caribbean boat tour companies, and nearby resorts are all profiting from travelers who would give anything—and pay anything—to swim and snap a selfie with the Bahamian pigs.

Tourist Safety Is Certainly An Issue

If this doesn’t bother you, consider the safety of the tourists. While I was in the Bahamas for just one week, I heard several first-hand stories from tourists who were bitten by the pigs. One young man was bitten in the butt when he turned away from the pigs while holding food. Even I was bitten when one of the pigs lunged to grab something out of my hand and accidentally caught my finger at the same time in her powerful jaws.

I asked Susie from Farm Sanctuary about this, wondering what safety concerns people should be aware of when interacting with these hungry, feral-domestic hybrid pigs. She said:

“Pig bites can be pretty serious. Pigs have strong jaws and can have a very crushing, bone breaking bite. They also often break skin. They can do serious damage.”

Pig Bites Can Cause Serious Damage

Despite this, most of the tourists I talked with were not aware of any safety precautions they should take when interacting with the pigs. And the things I saw tourists do for the sake of a selfie photo were cringeworthy. It’s amazing there are not already more serious stories circling about serious injuries at Pig Island… but it’s only a matter of time.

So even if you’re not concerned about the wellbeing of the pigs on this island, consider the tourists who come every year to snap a photo with the famous swimming pigs, completely unaware of how to interact with pigs and the risk involved. 

What’s Wrong With Pig Island (Big Major Cay)?

To sum it up, here are the problems I learned about during my time at Pig Beach:

The pigs are killed.

Pigs can have upwards of twenty piglets each year, and they can start having babies when they’re just a year and a half old. Without killing the pigs (or giving the piglets away to locals for food), there would be no way to maintain the small population of pigs on the various islands.

The pigs can suffer from severe sunburn and skin cancer.

Spending their days in the blazing sun without protection from mud or other forms of sunblock (especially those with fair skin) commonly causes skin cancer in pigs. Without an enticement to stay in the shade, these swimming pigs are extra susceptible.

The pigs’ food source is unreliable.

Their primary food source comes from locals and visiting tourists. When pigs are food-aggressive and there is a lot of food competition among the pigs, that is a sign that they are probably hungry and not getting enough to eat. The pigs also have heightened stress and become more aggressive when they are deficient in nutrients.

The pigs don’t have adequate shelter.

They are exposed to the sun, rain, and especially the harsh Caribbean storms and hurricanes.

The pigs are an unusual feral-domestic hybrid.

As enormous non-native animals that are an unusual mix between feral and domestic, they run right up to people, but are often aggressive and pose a serious danger to visitors. But there is nobody looking out for the safety of tourists (unless they are there with a tour company).

The swimming pigs are a major tourist attraction.

Many individuals and companies profit (big time) off of them. As we see time and again, profiting off of the lives of others often leads to exploitation.

More “pig islands” are sprouting up.

As business savvy locals see how effective they are at attracting tourists and generating profit. Some entrepreneurial locals are bringing pigs to create new “pig islands.” This is a huge problem, especially considering there is no oversight or accountability for the wellbeing of the pigs.

Bottom line—the pigs are not living out long lives of freedom on a deserted island in the Bahamas.

Sure, it’s better than a factory farm, but Pig Island is no paradise for pigs.

Note: There are now several islands in the Bahamas where individuals and tour companies have brought pigs to create additional swimming pig attractions. They all have different degrees of care and oversight.

Is the Island With Swimming Pigs All Bad?

At this point, you might be thinking, “What’s she so worked up about? At least these swimming pigs aren’t locked up on a factory farm!” And that’s a fair point.

Life for most pigs in today’s world is excruciating. Most pigs in existence today are suffering factory farms living a horrendously torturous and sad life. But is that an excuse to lower our standards of care and compassion for the species? Absolutely not.  

Of course, it is worth noting that Pig Island has brought incredible positive press for pigs, showing that they are smart, curious, playful, lovable animals not unlike the dogs and cats we adore at home. Presumably, these pigs have inspired countless people to leave pork and bacon of their plate—which is wonderful.

Choose A Kinder Adventure In The Bahamas

But we don’t need to continue to spread a false story of happiness at the expense of these pigs—especially when there are pigs like Esther the Wonder Pig who is a real-life example of a truly happy, healthy, beloved pig. 

There are plenty of other reasons to visit the Bahamas—the beaches are beautiful, and you can enjoy activities like snorkeling, paddle boarding, island hopping, and even swimming near wild sharks. The locals are incredibly friendly and kind, and it really is a beautiful place. 

One Bahamian wrote in sharing the following:

The Bahamas recently outlawed the fishing of sea turtles and was declared a shark sanctuary, protecting sharks from commercial fishing. In 1958 The Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park was the first national park of its kind to have both a land and sea component. The 176 square mile park is a ‘no-take’ park where nothing within its boundaries can be removed.

Other beautiful, endangered animals like the Flamingo, the Bahama parrot and Rock iguanas are also fully protected and areas of their natural habitat have been set aside and declared as sanctuaries for them. These sanctuaries are The Bahamas National Parks. The parks are speckled throughout the islands and are open to the public so people may witness these animals in their natural habitat.

You might have been in search of a pig sanctuary, but the whole time you were sailing past a world of sanctuaries waiting for you to discover them.

What Can You Do to Help the Swimming Pigs?

Despite all these problems, Pig Beach has seen a recent surge in popularity, with tourists visiting from all around the world. While I was there, there was a group who had traveled all the way from Japan to the Bahamas for just one day, just to see the pigs. That’s where you come in.

Please help spread the word to let people know that Pig Island is no paradise for the pigs, but rather a tourist attraction not a whole lot different from Sea World or the Zoo. Instead of googling “Where can you swim with pigs?” and booking a flight, plan a trip to an animal sanctuary like Farm Sanctuary or Animal Place! There are hundreds of sanctuaries all around the world where you can visit pigs, rub their bellies, and support liberation rather than exploitation.

Urge the Government to Take Action

We can also put pressure on the government, tour companies, and local resorts to do better. There is currently no oversight or transparency. We really need to act now to stop this problem from growing (and spreading to more islands), and also urge the government and tour companies to at the very least neuter the male pigs, provide sturdy shelter to protect them from the storms, and assign someone to look out for their care and wellbeing (food, water, sun protection, veterinary care, etc). 

Choose Cruelty-Free Travel & Compassionate Vacations

There are so many wonderful places to travel and summer vacation activities to participate in without exploiting animals. Instead of visiting pig island, how about one of these vegan-friendly travel destinations? Consider a trip to NYC, San Francisco, Sacramento, Seattle, London, Chile, or Paris, which all have vibrant vegan scenes! Or you could book a getaway to an all vegan resort like The Stanford Inn By The Sea in Northern California or one of the other many vegan hotels and resorts around the world!

Vegan-Friendly Travel Destinations

Here are some city guides for popular vegan travel destinations: 

• Kauaii, Hawaii Vegan Guide (for the tropical vacation lover—go snorkeling with sea life that’s meant to be in the ocean)
• New York City Vegan Guide
• Austin, Texas Vegan Restaurant Guide
• San Francisco Vegan Guide
• Best Vegan Restaurants in Oakland, California
• Best Vegan Restaurants in Berkeley, CA

The sky is the limit—and I promise that when you’re visiting a place that you know is not doing harm you’ll have a much better time. 

This article about the swimming pigs in the Exumas was written and photographed by yours truly, Michelle Cehn. This article is based on my personal first-hand experience on my trip to the Bahamas for my vegan honeymoon.

The post Sadly, Pig Beach Isn’t Paradise for the Swimming Pigs in the Bahamas appeared first on World of Vegan.

Portland has been referred to as a nature-lovers paradise and an oasis of innovators and startups. It’s also a foodie wonderland! Such simple labels don’t do proper justice to paint the full picture of what life is like in Portland, Oregon. This bustling metropolis sits in the shadow of snow-capped Mount Hood. It’s just a short drive away from breathtaking waterfalls, wildflowers, and in the summer, an abundance of wild berries.

It’s also home to countless microbreweries and bean-to-cup coffee houses. They are perfect for perking up or winding down after a day of exploration. For lower-impact entertainment, you can always find a wide variety of art shows, theatrical productions, concerts, museums, and so much more.

Portland is a place where individuals and small businesses are celebrated, which has given rise to a thriving food cart scene. Couple that with concerns about sustainable and low-impact living, awareness of animal rights, and a deep connection with local agriculture, it should come as no surprise that there’s a wealth of vegan eateries strongly rooted across the urban landscape. Portland truly has some of the best vegan restaurants and food!

Portland: Offering Some Of The Best Vegan Food And Vegetarian Restaurants

Many would say it’s the most vegan-friendly mid-sized city in the United States, ranging from high-end fine dining to cheap street eats. For every plant-based craving, you won’t just have one option, but an expansive range of choices to indulge in. Let’s dig in!

Best Vegan Portland Junk Food, Fast Food, & Diners

Freshly prepared, classic American fare with speedy service is an easy choice where everyone will find something they want. Whether you want a place with a comfortable ambiance or simply a grab-and-go solution, these places will make sure you’re fed and content in no time.

Ben & Esther’s

Jewish delis are a dying breed, but this dynamic duo is keeping the time-honored art alive with a more compassionate approach. They offer classic chewy vegan bagels with a thick schmear of dairy-free cream cheese. Also available is a meatless Reuben on rye, but that’s just the start. There’s also vegan whitefish, egg salad, noodle kugel, and even black and white cookies for dessert! As a bonus, since there’s no meat or dairy in the first place, everything is kosher by default.

Chubby Bunny

The fine print on most menus usually serves as a warning to sensitive diners about potential allergens or animal products. Here, if you look closely, you see an asterisk with the words “100% secretly vegan” instead. Otherwise, there’d be no indication that those flaky croissant sandwiches filled with sausage, egg, bacon, and cheese were indeed completely plant-based.

Gnarlys

Offering delicious vegan burgers, crispy wedge fries, and creamy milkshakes, Gnarlys is a must-visit destination in Portland! This food cart offers all of the vegan comfort food you could ask for, with lots of outdoor seating.

Off the Griddle

While conventional eggs and dairy are served upon request, the entire menu of diner staples and breakfast favorites is completely vegan by default. That means vegan waffles, hash browns, biscuits and gravy, tofu scrambles, and so much more. Come early though because they close up shop at 3pm sharp every day.

Vegan Junk Food

“Junk” is all in the mouth of the beholder. In this case, it’s all about embracing classic comfort foods tailor-made for fast food cravings and drunken munchies. Want nuggets, chili cheese fries, and a milkshake at 10pm? You’ve got it! The Hawaiian lunch plate is a stand-out option that you won’t find anywhere else. Vegan Moko Loko, Salmon Poke, or Tofu Katsu is a wild dream on the mainland unless you wake up to that savory reality right here!

Vertical Diner

With a name that evokes unlimited upward potential, the goals for this modern greasy spoon are no less lofty. They bring classic diner fare that includes breakfast all day and towering sandwiches. There’s a mid-century ambiance which makes it feel like a step back in time but with contemporary ingredients. Sit at the bar to really take in the scene, lingering over a bottomless cup of coffee, served with a smile.

Portland’s Best Vegan Burgers

DC Vegetarian Restaurant

Despite the name, everything here is vegan, although you’d never guess it was even meatless to begin with. These monster sandwiches are stuffed and bursting with handmade proteins. Get your deli fix with the Italian Sub or get your fast-food cravings squared away with a fully loaded Bacon CheeseBurger. Many say these are the best sandwiches in all of Portland, vegan or not.

Next Level Burger

This vegan fast-food franchise is taking the US by storm. There are two locations in Portland to ensure that you’re never too far from instant burger gratification. When no single patty will do, go big and get the Beyond Animal, all dress up in In-And-Out style “special sauce,” two thick meatless patties, tempeh bacon, and crinkle-cut fries, all between two buns. You might need to unhinge your jaw for this one.

Veggie Grill

This wildly popular fully vegan fast-casual chain is determined to bring plant-based food to the masses. They truly have something for everyone, with their spicy vegan Buffalo wings and vegan chicken sandwiches being top sellers. There’s also a kid’s menu for those with smaller appetites.

Vegan Southern Food in Portland

Dirty Lettuce

Get down and dirty with a cleaner take on Southern comfort foods. This is the best fried chicken you’ll find north of the Mason-Dixon Line, and it just happens to be vegan! Generous plates of the Crispy Seitan come with two sides like mac and cheeze, cornbread, jambalaya, mashed potatoes, and pretty much all the decadent carbs you could ever want. For KFC cravings, don’t miss The Infamous Bowl, which could easily win a blind taste test.

Homegrown Smoker Portland

If you can only visit ONE place for a soulful meal, most locals would agree that Homegrown Smoker should be your top pick. This beloved food cart has been a trailblazer in the world of barbecue. They smoke soy curls and tempeh low and slow to create succulent meatless proteins that would make any pitmaster proud. Get a plate, a sandwich, or a burrito with all the fixings.

Portland Vegan Cheese Shops

Cultured Kindness Vegan Cheese Shop

Specializing in small-batch, organic cashew cheeses, these dairy-free delights have been drawing lines since day one. Conveniently located in Portland, you can try various cheesy dips, snacks, and sandwiches, all while loading up on wheels to go. Don’t miss their cheesecakes, which have become an overnight sensation in a wide variety of seasonal flavors.

Vegan Pizza Places

While it’s no problem to get vegan cheese at almost any decent pizzeria now, you can go above and beyond the basics at these innovative slice shops.

Boxcar Pizza

These Detroit-style pies prove that it’s hip to be square. Each thick, 8×10-inch pizza is heavy with layers of scratch-made plant-based cheeses and meats. They offer both traditional and unconventional flavor combinations. The Buffalo Chicken pizza is a top seller, loaded with breaded and fried tenders, spicy Buffalo sauce, and gobs of vegan blue cheese. Order ahead because they regularly sell out before closing time.

Secret Pizza Society

Judging by the endless ticker tape of incoming orders, it looks like the secret is out. The thin, crispy crust is compulsively munchable even without any toppings. However, the vegan pepperoni, bacon, BBQ chicken, and other meatless marvels explain why it’s Portland’s worst-kept secret.

Virtuous Pie

Positive change is all about making better choices that taste great, which is exactly what you get at this 100% vegan eatery. Even the “hot honey” is made from apples! Want a plant-based pizza party? Start with buttery garlic knots, kale Caesar salad, personal pizzas with both gluten-free and soy-free options, and finish with their renowned small batch vegan ice cream. It’s a foodie wonderland for both kids and kids at heart.

Healthy & Fresh Vegan Restaurants in Portland

Seeking a dish as green as a Portland pine tree? These vegetable-centric restaurants are worth a visit!

Belle Pomme

Meaning “beautiful apple” in French, this European-style café takes a sophisticated approach to healthy eating, while incorporating Portland’s friendly, easygoing attitude. Bring your friends, bring your family, and bring your dogs; everyone loves these juices, smoothies, açai bowls, salads, and paninis, made fresh to order and customized to taste. You can even kick back with a glass of wine or craft beer if it’s been that kind of day.

Blossoming Lotus

An indispensable fixture of the Portland dining scene for over 20 years, Blossoming Lotus uses seasonal whole foods to create deeply nourishing meals that only taste decadent. Raw foods feature prominently, from the Live Nachos to the crowd-pleasing array of desserts. Bowls are abundant, taking inspiration from world cuisine to bring yakisoba, bibimbap, and pesto pasta together on one shared table. No matter where your tastes take you, be sure to swing by the bar where a perfectly paired cocktail (or mocktail) is waiting for you.

Fermenter

Treat your gut to a feast of natural probiotics in all things fermented. Get the inside scoop on handmade tempeh, koji, kombucha, and nut cheeses that are ready to eat, or take a workshop to make your own. Even if you’re skeptical of this funky food trend, one meal of cheesy rigatoni or a mung bean tempeh melt will instantly win you over.

Harlow

For the quintessential Portland hipster experience, this is the best example of fresh, locally sourced, 100% gluten-free, and vegetarian cuisine served with a modern, highly Instagrammable aesthetic. Everything can be made vegan, though some conventional eggs are included, particularly in breakfast offerings. Everyone raves about the impossibly creamy mac and cheese that’s stunningly dairy-free, walnut chorizo quesadilla that has nothing to do with meat, and other healthy indulgences that could win over the most skeptical omnivore.

Wild Thing

Build your own bowl or get a signature combination of vegetables, greens, and grains that are guaranteed to drive you wild. It won’t even feel like healthy eating when you smother lemony Brussels sprouts with hazelnut red pepper romesco sauce, but your body will surely thank you later. When you want tons of texture and bold flavor, these meals are just what the doctor ordered.

Portland Vegan Bowl Restaurants

Carioca Bowls

Get a taste of Rio de Janeiro with the iconic açai bowls it’s best known for. Straddling the line between breakfast and dessert, they’re a refreshing treat that tastes like soft serve, but it is made with only frozen fruit. Get yours topped with a rainbow of assorted fresh and dried fruits, nuts, seeds, granola, and nut butters in any combination your heart desires. If you’re craving something savory, try the vegan Brazilian cheese bread made from chewy tapioca starch and is naturally gluten-free.

Native Bowl

Fresh, fast, affordable, and full of flavor, these vegan rice bowls transcend all dietary restrictions and always hit the spot. The hardest thing about coming to Native Bowl is deciding on which bowl to get. Portions are generous and could easily feed two with small appetites, or one ferociously hungry eater.

The Whole Bowl

Hate making decisions when you’re hungry? The Whole Bowl will make it easy for you. All they serve is two sizes of their classic combination that consists of brown rice, black and red beans, avocado, cilantro, black olives, salsa, and Tali Sauce. Ask for the vegan version to omit the sour cream and cheese. It’s a simple, dependable combination that always delivers on nutritious, delicious satisfaction.

Best Juice Bars in Portland

Greenleaf Juicing Company

Dedicated to keeping it real with raw, plant-based foods, you’ll find nutritionally focused juices, shots, smoothies, açai bowls, oatmeal bowls, soups, grain bowls, and coffee for all your refueling needs. You can find four locations across the city for loading up on these super fresh superfoods.

Happy Day Juice

Put a smile on your face when you drink in cold-pressed juice, smoothies, and bowls made with the very best local produce Portland has to offer. There are plenty of more hearty meals as well. Choose from crisp waffles to avocado toast, cozy oatmeal to a spicy chipotle grain bowl. Stop in to instantly boost your mood, no matter what you’re craving.

Kure Superfoods

Cure whatever ails you with this 100% plant-based, gluten-free menu focused on green juice, like the popular Liquid Sunshine, rich smoothies, protein-packed meal shakes, and leafy lunch bowls. There are four locations to indulge in, guilt-free, seven days a week.

Moberi

What began on the sidewalk with a single bike-powered blender and cooler full of produce has grown to three brick-and-mortar locations, buoyed by critical success on Shark Tank in 2014. Now, these fully customizable plant-based smoothies and bowls are pedaling forward with restorative blends of acai, chia pudding, steel-cut oats, and a rainbow of premium toppings. Whether you want yours with a spoon or a straw, the results are refreshingly sweet!

Asian and Fusion Vegan Food in Portland

Offering authentic Asian cuisine or more creative combinations, you can find representation from almost all cultures, and sometimes with surprising twists.

Jade Rabbit

The jade rabbit is deeply embedded in Chinese mythology, but in Portland, Oregon, it’s a very real purveyor of incredible dim sum made by hand every day. Chili oil wontons are a must-order, bundling a tender morsel of meatless pork and beef into a delicate wrapper and lavishing it with mouth-numbing hot chili oil, garlic, and cilantro. That single bite is worth a trip from anywhere, but you should really take the opportunity to try as many dim sum delights as possible, since it’s almost impossible to find such a wide variety of authentic offerings without fear of hidden meat or fish.

KaTi

When the sauces alone are good enough to drink, you know you’re in for a good meal. You can smell the rich, aromatic Thai spices before you take a seat, perfuming the air with lemongrass, makrut lime, ginger, garlic, and chilies. It’s an intoxicating experience, even without taking advantage of the considerable cocktail menu. For those on a budget, take advantage of the lower-cost lunch menu that offers an abbreviated list of top hits, complete with curries, stir-fries, noodles, and soups.

Mama Dut

Take Vietnamese, vegan street food, add whimsy and imagination, and you might get something along the lines of Mama Dut. Bahn mi are constant staples of the menu, but the fillings are ever-changing with the seasons and the chef’s whims. Sometimes you’ll find crisp baguettes stuffed with fried mushrooms, other times meatless spam, but the results are always deeply satisfying. Hungry fans will wait in line for hours, even in the rain, for good reason.

Mirisata

Portland’s only Sri Lankan restaurant just happens to be 100% plant-based and mostly gluten-free. For the adventurous eater, this is your opportunity to try something new! Stand-out dishes include Kottu Roti, which is stir-fried with JUST Egg and your choice of curry, string hoppers, consisting of round noodle patties with dal and potato curry, and Parippu Vade, otherwise known as Pigeon Pea Fritters.

Obon Shokudo

Shining a light on the unsung heroes of Japanese comfort food, Obon Shokudo has garnered national acclaim right out of the gate with its artfully composed bento boxes, onigiri, curry udon, and katsu burgers. There’s even sushi for dogs, made of just rice and nori, which you can get for free! Since it was recently awarded the Best New Vegan Restaurant VegOut Magazine, you might want to make a reservation or order ahead.

The Sudra

If you’ve ever enviously eyed buttery naan or bowls of creamy saag paneer, this is where you can finally fulfill those cravings. Everything on the menu is completely vegan, right down to the mango lassi, made with coconut yogurt. For the most variety in one order, go for a thali plate, which combines your choice of curry with eight boldly seasoned sides and garnishes.

Yuan Su Vegetarian

Hot and sour soup may seem like a standard offering, but when it’s made without egg, chicken stock, or mystery meat, it’s truly a special treat. You’ll find this and all your favorite authentic Chinese, Chinese American, and Chinese-fusion dishes here, made completely vegan. The menu is about a mile long, so come hungry, bring friends, and plan for leftovers!

Vegan Mexican, Spanish, and Peruvian Restaurants in Portland

Add some spice to your diet; tacos aren’t just for Tuesdays! Plant-based Mexican, Spanish, and Peruvian eats always hit the spot, every day of the week.

Epif

Transplanted from Valparaiso, Chile to the Pacific Northwest, the flavors of South America are alive and well in these fully plant-based dishes. Ideal for sharing small plates and strong drinks, it’s also home to the largest selection of Pisco in all of Portland. Beet-infused pisco cocktail paired with baked or fried empanada, anyone?

The Groovy Floret

For a tiny trailer with a short menu, they sure are pumping out huge flavors. Choose from tacos, taco salad, nachos, or breakfast hash, and get ready to groove. You can’t go wrong since everything is 100% vegan and 100% delicious.

Mis Tacones

This taqueria pop-up turned full-time restaurant serves up more than great Mexican eats. Fostering a sense of community, particularly among queer and trans people of color, Mis Tacones brings everyone together around the shared experience of food. Seitan is the premier protein available in tacos, burritos, tortas, nachos, and empanadas, all boldly seasoned and brilliantly flavorful.

Plant Based Papi

There’s a world of flavor found at this pop-up operating out of Fortune Bar. Get everything from burgers and Nashville chicken to elote and nachos. Street tacos and the Crunch Wrap Supreme are top sellers, but you might want to order ahead if you have your heart set on one of these specialties. Supplies are limited and going fast.

Vegan Beer and Bar Food in Portland

Banish memories of late-night drinking when the best you could hope for was some stale peanuts or limp French fries to tide you over. These modern watering holes have expert mixologists and chefs in the kitchen, focused on making happy hour even more delicious. Who’s ready for vegan bar hopping?

Black Water

For dinner, drinks, and a show all under one roof, take a deep dive into Black Water. Catch live bands rocking out at this vibrant hot spot while sipping creative cocktails and elevated vegan pub grub that’s worth a trip all by itself. They pull out all the stops with loaded nachos, chili cheese fries, monster burgers, and gut-busting sandwiches, along with some lighter salads to balance everything out.

The Bye and Bye

Say hello to your new home away from home. It may be a bar at heart, slinging masterfully mixed cocktails alongside an extensive list of bottles and brews on tap, but it’s so much more than that. It’s a chill place to relax, catch up with friends, meet new ones, get work done, let loose, or even take the family. Dishes like the Weeping Tiger Sandwich, made with tofu cutlets, avocado, jalapeño, sriracha, and miso mayo on bread. have been winning new fans from day one. Consider this your top late-night haunt, open every day until midnight, and until 2am on Friday and Saturdays.

Coffee Beer

Whether you’re an early riser or still out from a long night of revelry, consider this your one-stop spot to detox or re-tox as desired. Pop in for an oat milk latte or an ice-cold beer, or mix it up with Grandpa’s Coffee, combing your morning brew with a shot of whisky to get everything in one convenient cup.

Fortune

Look for the neon sign on SW 11^th St and you’ll be headed to the right place. Plant Based Papi is in the kitchen providing sustenance for party people on the dance floor. Cocktails are on the more expensive side, but you can’t put a price tag on this fun-loving vibe.

Leikam Brewing

Known as Portland’s first kosher brewery, you can order any beer here, as they are all vegan! This cozy local pub offers a sunny porch to enjoy your beverage on and is also dog-friendly!

Neighbors Taproom

What’s good in the neighborhood? Everything on tap at this bright, dog-friendly bar and plant-based coffee house. Oat milk is the only creamer here, and while light snacks are available, outside food is encouraged. It’s a prime space for events like yoga, paint parties, trivia nights, and art openings, so there’s always something fun to do and see.

SportsBox

Imagine the ambiance of Hooters, complete with scantily clad women and sports blaring on multiple screens while beer flows freely but add a completely plant-based menu into the mix, and you’d have SportBox. Beyond just watching the game, you can also get into yourself, with e-sports tournaments and video poker if you’re in a gambling mood. Dig into potato skins, nachos, burgers, and pizza while cheering on your favorite time. You’ll always feel like a winner when everything is vegan!

Sweet Hereafter

Dark and mysterious, the atmosphere in this pub specializing in craft cocktails and vegan eats only adds to the appeal. Even in broad daylight, it might be hard to guess that such meaty fare was made of soy curls and tofu rather than animals. Take a seat at the bar to watch cocktails take shape, or retreat to the back patio for a cool, quiet escape from it all.

Vegan Cafés in Portland

Coffee isn’t just a beverage in Oregon; it’s a whole lifestyle. Cafe culture. Boasting more than 200 specialty coffee shops and micro-roasters throughout the state, including 80 roasters in Portland alone, these Oregonians know their beans.

Jet Black Coffee Company

The walls are black, and the espresso is black, but the smiles shine brightly from the crack of dawn to closing time. For your daily brew, a lavish latte, or light bites from locally sourced pastries, this should be your first stop. Chill inside or on the patio, catch up with friends, or focus in on work. Everyone is welcome, and no one wants to leave.

Oracle Coffee Company

Whether hot or iced, the only milk lightening these lattes comes from soybeans, coconuts, almonds, or oats. Expect masters of the craft, pouring art into every cup with extra flourishes for special flavors, like genuine chocolate shavings sprinkled on top of frothy mochas. Don’t forget to browse the selection of rotating baked goods, and they make some mean chai and matcha, too.

Rabbits Café

Rabbit food? Perish the thought. Sure, you can get plenty of leafy greens in their abundant bowls, but these are no sad salads. The Incredibi-Bowl is the most popular, and it lives up to expectations, brimming with succulent soy curls, miso-ginger broccoli, and tahini-topped kale so good that you’ll want seconds.

Soul Lift Cacao

Brewing a different type of bean with the same reverence as coffee connoisseurs, hot chocolate isn’t just for kids here. Ceremonial cacao pasta, roasted over a wood fire provides a different sort of pick me up, available unsweetened, with coconut sugar, or monk fruit sweetener. Try a sample flight for a taste of 6 different flavors, like Snickerdoodle and Cherry Amor, with a glass of sparkling water as a palate cleanser.

Vegan Bakeries, Donuts, & Sweets in Portland

Dessert should be considered a wholly separate meal, especially considering the incredible treats that await you here. Don’t just leave room after dinner; make dessert the main dish!

Doe Donuts

Doe-NOT pass these fanciful fried treats! Portland‘s first and only 100% vegan donut shop pulls out all the stops, specializing in handcrafted, seasonal donuts and local coffee. Even the standard, everyday flavors go way beyond boring chocolate and vanilla glaze to include French toast, tiramisu-filled, and birthday cake doughnuts.

Hail Snail

Roll up to get your custom vegan cinnamon roll, bedazzled with more toppings than your average ice cream sundae. There are also gluten-free options so everyone can get wrapped up in these buttery cinnamon buns.

Little Chickpea

Proving that beans can do anything, chickpeas are transformed into luscious ice cream at this sweet scoop shop. Everything is vegan, gluten-free, and soy-free, including the chocolate and vanilla waffle cones. Don’t be shy; sampling is encouraged!

Missionary Chocolates

Life is like a box of chocolates. If you’re lucky, it will be more like a box of assorted truffles from Missionary Chocolates, because every decadent morsel is a little bite of pure joy. They also make perfect souvenirs to take back home … if you can manage to save them that long.

Petunia’s Pies and Pastries

Stationed in the West End of downtown Portland, this brightly lit storefront clad in pastel pink is truly the stuff that sweet dreams are made of. When you want a sweet treat with gluten-free options and adult beverages, this should be your first stop. If you’re overwhelmed by the sheer number of pastry possibilities, the pecan sticky buns and cookie monster baby cakes always get glowing reviews.

Shoofly Vegan Bakery

You can find their incredible pasties, pies, and cakes at many other cafes and restaurants throughout Multnomah County, but the freshest, widest variety will always come from the source. Sink your teeth into rich brownies, still warm from the oven, while sipping on an orange-cardamom latte for the ultimate pick-me-up.

Sweetpea Baking Company

Founded in 2005 as Porland’s first all-vegan bakery, this cornerstone of Portland food culture has only continued to grow and thrive over the years. Local, seasonal produce is prominently featured across the wide selection of scones, Danishes, cupcakes, cheesecakes, and pies. For more savory cravings, you can look forward to a healthy array of breakfast options, daily homemade soups, sandwiches, and bagels too.

A Portland Gem: Voodoo Doughnuts

Another must-visit while you’re in Portland is Voodoo Doughnuts. While not fully vegan, Voodoo Doughnuts has long been revered for its vegan donut selection. They have fun, silly doughnut designs, and you would never know these light, fluffy, beautifully glazed vegan doughnuts were vegan. We’d recommend picking up at least a half-dozen to make the inevitably long line worth the wait!

Surround yourself with overwhelming natural beauty, friendly locals, and more plant-based delicacies than you could ever eat in one lifetime. Portland, Oregon should be at the top of your list of places to visit.

More Vegan-Friendly and Vegetarian Restaurants Portland Has To Offer

When it comes to vegan-friendly restaurants, Portland is an absolute paradise! This list offers lots of great additional options to consider while in the Beaver State. Please note that menu items and offerings may change, so please double-check details with the restaurant before visiting!

• Bar Carlo – This Mexican-American Fusion restaurant offers several clearly marked vegan items on its brunch menu.
• Great American Video and Espresso – This establishment offers non-dairy ice creams, Italian ice, and milkshakes. All of their shake flavors can be made vegan. Choose from a few of their vegan ice cream flavors and any of their syrups, which are all vegan.
• Ground Kontrol – This 1980s-themed restaurant has a rad menu that, while not all vegan, can be made vegan. Enjoy vegan roast beef, grilled cheese, and nachos.
• Departure Restaurant and Louge – This Pan-Asian style restaurant offers several vegan dishes like tom kha, nuka carrot roll, and mapo tofu mazeman noodles.
• Hungry Tiger – Offering vegan and non-vegan versions of comfort food classics, Hungry Tiger offers vegan corn dogs, wings, burgers, mac and cheese, and more. Must be 21 to enter this establishment.
• Jam on Hawthorne – This brunch spot has clearly marked vegan items on its menu, including dishes like vegan scramble, smoked tofu, and vegetable hash, and a vegan wrap with vegan chorizo, hashbrowns, and veggies.
• Kayo’s Ramen Bar – This ramen bar offers several vegan items like vegan shoyu ramen, miso ramen, and curry ramen.
• Kinboshi Ramen – Has great vegan ramen options like vegan tonyu (organic soy milk), miso vegan, cold white sesame ramen, and spicy ramen.
• Laughing Planet Cafe – This chain offers clearly marked vegan items on its menu. Enjoy items like mushroom tacos, kale Caesar salad, veggie chili, and a Thai bowl.
• Los Gorditos – This Mexican restaurant with multiple locations offers vegan tacos and burritos.
• Luc Lac Vietnamese Kitchen – Enjoy several vegan-friendly dishes on this menu like fresh spring rolls, tom yum tofu, veggie crispy rolls, and a lemongrass tofu banh mi.
• Rudy’s Pizza – Offers a separate vegan menu. Order a vegan buffalo, ranch supreme, vegan chicken and garlic, BBQ, or vegan cheeseburger pizza, just to name a few.
• Shandong – Offers a separate vegan menu. Enjoy Chinese cuisine with items like spicy eggplant, fried tofu, broccoli soy curls, kung pao tofu, and ma po tofu.
• Thunderbird Bar – Offers American-style food with lots of vegan items like sweet potato fries, fried Brussels, poutine, vegan burgers with Beyond Meat, fried chik’n, and more.
• Top Burmese – Enjoy Burmese cuisine with clearly marked vegan items like yellow tofu tots, hand-mixed rainbow salad, shan noodles with tofu, and eggplant or okra curry.
• UCHU Sushi – Offers a vegan section of its menu with vegan rolls with fillings like avocado and fried cream cheese, tempura fried asparagus, tofu, and okra.
• Victoria Bar – Offers New American-style bar food with clearly marked vegan dishes like vegan fried chicken, buffalo cauliflower wraps, avocado toast, and more.

More Vegan City Guides

If you love to travel, check out our collection of vegan city guides! You can find the best plant-based restaurants and more. Maybe you can even make time to visit a farmed animal sanctuary in the area! Here are a few popular veg-friendly cities to explore.

• Oakland Vegan Restaurants
• Berkeley Vegan Restaurants
• Best New York City Vegan Restaurants 
• Cleveland Vegan Restaurants
• Houston Vegan Restaurants in Texas
• Charlotte Vegan Restaurants in North Carolina
• Atlanta Vegan Restaurants in Georgia
• Vegan Guide to Fast Food Restaurants

We hope you enjoyed this guide sharing the best vegan restaurants in Portland, Oregon. If we missed any of your favorite Portland vegan restaurants, please do show them some love in the comments below. Many thanks to Hannah Kaminsky for her help with this article. Cover photo by The Bye and Bye.

The post Best Vegan Portland Oregon Restaurants appeared first on World of Vegan.

It really might be the happiest place on earth, and I’m not just talking about the theme parks. Beyond the Magic Kingdom, there’s an enchanted land of sun-soaked gardens, over 100 lakes and springs, and a bustling nightlife that could rival the glitziest cities. Escape into nature or indulge in modern amenities here in O-Town, the single most popular travel destination in North America. You’ll be in good company as you discover Orlando, Florida.

Feeding such a diverse crowd is a daunting task, but the innovative chefs who call this sunny city their home are up to the challenge. You’ll find abundant vegan and gluten-free options everywhere you turn, even in some unlikely old-school eateries. Luckily, you don’t have to look too hard when there are plenty of dedicated vegan and vegetarian eateries. Welcoming alternative eaters with open arms—and tables—check out some of the best vegan restaurants Orlando has to offer.

Vegan Diners and Comfort Food

Feed your mind with plant-based comfort food that tastes like nostalgia. From vegan fast food staples that will have you smiling more than a conventional happy meal to vegetarian diner favorites, these meals are always gratifying.

Burgers & Booch

This 100% plant-based pop-up features Joe’s Oat Patties and flavored kombucha by the glass or bottle. Aside from their namesake, you should really try the Mac and Cheeze Donutz. The gooey side dish is transformed into crispy rings for hand-held snacking delight.

Pizza Nova

This fully vegan pizzeria offers unique Neapolitan-style pizzas using cashew mozzarella, tofu ricotta, plant-based pepperoni, and Impossible Meatballs. Start with their fire-roasted cauliflower bites with vegan ranch, or the cheezy bread with vegan parmesan.

The Vegan Hot Dog Cart

Exactly as the name implies! This modest pushcart has a short but solid menu of meatless hot dogs loaded with creative finishing touches. When it’s late, you’ve had a few drinks, and you need a hearty bite to eat, nothing beats the “old reliable,” positively dripping with chili and cheezy sauce for about $5.

V’s Diner

You won’t find any name-brand ingredients on this menu! All the burgers, gyros, cheese steaks, and more are made entirely from scratch. The goal is to bring back familiar favorites without reinventing the wheel, creating the same satisfying experience.

Winter Park Biscuit Company

There’s almost always a line that can stretch down the block on weekends. But that’s only a testament to the amazing eats that are in such hot demand! Your patience will be rewarded with impossibly flaky homemade biscuits dressed up with sweet or savory toppings. You can also get hearty sandwiches, burgers, and salads. Don’t pass up the OG, a fried chick’n cutlet on an oat-buttermilk biscuit with your choice of sauce!

Vegan Soul Food Options in Orlando

Soothe your soul with dishes from these decadent vegan soul food restaurants in Orlando!

CheChe’s Vegan Eatery

It can be tough to catch Chef Tanesha with her sporadic pop-ups at markets and events, but it’s worth the hunt. Her unique combination of Southern soul food and Jamaican seasonings is unlike anything else! Sign up for her mailing list or follow her on instagram for all the latest updates.

Dharma Southern Chick’n

Slinging plant-based southern staples and other fine vittles, chef and owner Shaun Moon is the mastermind behind this incredibly popular bastion of comfort. There’s truly no better place to sink your teeth into a fried green tomato sandwich. Complete with ingredients such as smoked eggplant remoulade, beet chow-chow, and garlicky kale on thick Texas toast. It might even be better than what Grandma makes…but don’t worry, we won’t tell her!

Karelyn’s Soul Café

Karelyn’s has been feeding the nation through meal delivery services shipped directly to hungry customers. Now those very same soulful meals are now available hot and fresh at their café in west Orlando! The chicken and waffles and BBQ sandwich are two of their most popular entrees. Don’t forget to grab authentic banana pudding for dessert, too!

Fast Casual Vegan-Friendly Restaurants in Orlando

For a quick and easy meal with some gourmet flare, you can have it all at these unpretentious eateries.

Ethos Vegan Kitchen

Think New American fare with global influences to get a rough idea of what to expect, but it’s almost as tough to describe such a diverse array of dishes as it is to choose an entrée! From coconut curry to jerk chicken, lasagna to meatloaf, and so much more, you should plan to make multiple visits.

Jacked Up Vegan

If you are hungry for burgers, Jacked Up Vegan offers three stellar choices with double patties with all the fixings, and cilantro crema. If you’d like platters, you can choose a base of rice and beans with additions like vegan protein, sweet plantains, cheesy fries, or nachos.

Leguminati Vegan Eatery

Welcome to the secret society of vegans, otherwise known as the “bean team.” In these hallowed halls, you can truly “live mas” with half a dozen different takes on Taco Bell’s beloved Crunch Wrap. Here, the options go way beyond refried beans and potatoes. This menu features Chick’n Bacun Ranch Crunch, Sloppy [Joe] Crunch, and even a Crunch Mac that includes gooey mac and cheese with vegan beef crumbles.

Norma’s Plant Based Cuisine

Frequently described as a hidden gem, this café is hidden inside the bookstore at the Florida Conference of Seventh-Day Adventists building. Once you uncover this treasure, you’ll be rewarded with riches beyond your wildest appetite. Enjoy breakfast burritos as big as your head, chik’n alfredo pizza, vegan beef arepas and so much more.

Vegan-Friendly Asian Restaurants

From noodle soups to sushi, here are the tastiest vegan-friendly Asian restaurants in the Orlando area.

Loving Hut

It’s easy to love this international chain of pan-Asian plant-based specialties. The Orlando outpost is independently owned and operated, which means you’ll find some unique offerings. Ocean Sushi, made with a vegan fish fillet and Thousand Island Dressing, along with classics like Sesame Drumsticks and Lemongrass Noodles will hit the spot.

Veggie Garden

Finally, you can indulge in the richly spiced broth of genuine Vietnamese pho without worrying about beef stock, chicken fat, or pork belly! Slurp up a huge bowl of rice noodles topped with a plethora of fresh, crisp vegetables and tender tofu. Only a few dishes contain conventional eggs, which are clearly labeled and can be removed upon request.

Best Juice Bars in Orlando

There’s nothing like a refreshing beverage to combat those warm, humid Florida days. Check out these spots below for where to go to rehydrate and refuel!

Juice Bar Orlando

If you think all green juice tastes like swap water, you haven’t tried the You’re Kale-in It. Blending those dark leafy greens with orange, green apple, and lemon transforms the mixture into a refreshing and sweet drink. Give it a shot—or have an actual shot of concentrated superfoods to grab and glow.

Raw Juice Bar

You need to stay hydrated in the hot Florida sunshine, so why not make it a delicious treat? Go for a lighter Lean, Mean and Green juice, or indulge in a Wake Up! Smoothie that has your coffee, chocolate, and morning fruit all mixed into one sippable sweet treat. You can also refuel with a selection of fresh, raw foods prepared either as a wrap or salad.

The Smoothie Room

Who says smoothies are boring? You can find fun blends like Butter Face, combining peanut butter with bananas, blueberries, and granola. There’s also the Chocolate Factory that’s every bit as decadent as it sounds, without a sugar rush afterward.

Vegan South American and Caribbean Food

Being situated so close to the Caribbean islands and South America certainly has its perks, especially when it comes to vibrant tropical ingredients and culinary inspiration. You can enjoy an escape to our own personal paradise anytime you want to grab a bite!

Boca Fresca

Proudly Puerto Rican yet unafraid to play with broader global flavors, the bowls are built to order with components so complex and uncommonly good, they could each be their own dishes. That means you can get vegan mofongo or yuca fries with guava-smoked tofu, chicharrones, gazpacho, fysh cakes, and so much more.

The Earthy Kitchen

If vegan pernil sandwiches, pasteles, and mofongo sound like a wild dream, it’s time to wake up and smell the sazon. These Puerto Rican classics exceed expectations, whether you grew up with these flavors or are just now discovering their charms.

Market Central

Previously located inside Dollins Food Hall near downtown Orlando, locals are waiting with bated breath while this Caribbean classic relocates to a new home. Until then, everyone can only dream of the vegan tri-tip steak, jerk chick’n, and chick’n “drummies” they’re best known for.

Amazing Orlando Vegan Bakeries

Looking for dairy-free ice cream, vegan donuts, vegan cupcakes, or vegan cakes in Orlando? These bake shops have you covered! And if you’d rather not leave your house, you can always shop from one of these online vegan bakeries that ship to your door.

The Greenery Creamery

Handcrafted in small batches, about half of the offerings at this boutique vegan ice cream shop in Orlando, Florida are fully vegan. Flavors rotate monthly so you can always get a taste of something new. What’s even sweeter is that you can also treat your vegan dog! They have a number of “pup cups” made from oat milk specifically intended for our four-legged friends!

Valhalla Bakery

They say that Valhalla Bakery is where your taste buds go to heaven. There isn’t a drop of dairy nor a single broken egg that goes into fluffy buttercream frostings, vegan fudgy brownies, and flaky pie crusts. It’s impossible to walk away from those gleaming pastry cases, but you don’t need to stuff yourself in one trip. They also ship straight to your door anytime those cravings strike.

Vegan Donut Shops in Orlando

Valkyrie Doughnuts

You might want to wear your stretchy pants when you stop by the store. These egg-free and dairy-free doughnuts are large, luscious, and do not hold back on flavor. You can even get the viral cronut (aka, croissant doughnut) finally in a vegan format! If you’re even remotely interested in desserts, consider this a must-visit. Plus, if you come in for breakfast, you can get a vegan egg, bacon, and cheese sandwich built on a glazed doughnut instead of a bun.

Voodoo Doughnut

Born in Portland, Oregon but beloved nationwide, this quirky, somewhat naughty chain of unconventional vegan doughnuts has great late-night hours and a selection of vegan treats. Their pink boxes are iconic, but it’s hard to keep them full for very long.

Veg-Friendly Ethiopian and Indian Restaurants

Enjoy the spices of Ethiopia and South India with these fantastic options in Orlando.

The Madras Café

In keeping with the Indian principle of ahimsa, or “non-violence,” these richly perfumed, boldly colored curries are all vegetarian. Many do contain yogurt, ghee, or paneer which are dairy-based, but at least half of the dishes are automatically vegan.

Selam Ethiopian & Eritrean Cuisine

Distinctive and delicious, this authentic homage to African cooking is a perfect example of the art. Naturally vegan-friendly, there are plenty of brilliantly spiced vegetables, greens, beans, and lentil stews to scoop up with gluten-free injera. Although meat and dairy are also on the menu, it’s easy to enjoy a fully plant-based feast. Servers are incredibly kind, accommodating, and willing to help.

Yene Romay Ethiopian Kitchen

Ethiopian cuisine has a natural abundance of built-in vegan options, and this mobile food cart focuses only on those plant-based delicacies to make ordering easy. The bestseller is Misir Wat, which is red lentils stewed with spicy berbere, onion, and garlic. Everything comes with gluten-free injera so you can eat with your hands and mop up every last flavorful drop.

Vegetarian & Vegan-Friendly Healthy Restaurants in Orlando

Sip, snack, and munch your way to better health with these whole foods restaurants and drinks. Full of nutrition and flavor, you’ll feel as great as the vegetarian dishes taste!

Grounding Roots

Founded on the belief that everyone deserves access to nutrient-rich, health-supportive food, these fresh juices, smoothies, and snacks are rooted in wellness. You can also book classes and tours to learn about the art of juicing or starting a small business.

In Florida, summer is more a state of mind than a season. Year-round balmy weather has cultivated the rich fauna and flora throughout the state in addition to attracting guests from around the world. Once you experience the dazzling arts scene, nightlife, nature, and culinary talents, you might want to take root and stay here, too.

Korgette

Start with crave-worthy Mediterranean street food and make it lighter, fresher, and completely vegan! That’s the idea behind Korgette, a food truck parked at À La Carte, a community of mobile food vendors in Colonialtown Center. They’re best known for their falafel. Get it in a fluffy pita, on a salad, or swaddled in a lavash or collard wrap.

New Moon Market

If you are looking for cold-pressed juices with a variety of organic ingredients, homemade almond milk, and an extensive smoothie menu, then blast off to New Moon Market. While you’re there, enjoy smoothie bowls, healthy salads and wraps, and energy bites. They do use honey in some of their menu items, so just double-check before ordering!

Purple Ocean Super Food Bar

Widely considered one of the leading authorities on açai bowls, it’s hard to compete with their short but sweet range of frosty fruit options. It’s like ice cream, but so much healthier! Just select agave instead of honey to keep it all vegan.

Skyebird

Offering an array of cold-pressed juices from Tropical Kale to Detox Greens, Skyebird is a great place to enjoy plant-based, gluten-free, and organic fare. Enjoy their acai bowls with loads of topping choices, plant-based wraps and bowls, and vegan treats.

Veg’n Out

Delivering on the promise of “taste-good food for the feel-great soul”, it’s hard to beat the organic soups, salads, and grain bowls made from local produce. Regulars rave about the Brussels Bowl, made with maple Dijon Brussels sprouts, walnut chorizo, chickpea croutons, quinoa, black beans, crumbled tortilla, plant-based Parmesan, and lime jalapeño dressing. Now that’s a mouthful!

More Vegan-Friendly and Vegetarian Restaurants Orlando Has To Offer

When it comes to vegan-friendly restaurants, Orlando is smoking hot! Although this list is not completely comprehensive, it offers lots of great options to consider while in the Sunshine State. Please note that menu items and offerings may change, so please double-check details with the restaurant before visiting!

• Drunken Monkey Coffee Bar: This coffee bar features several vegan items on its menu, such as vegan mushroom paninis, a vegan breakfast wrap, and plant-based milks for their coffee.
• Eola General: There are lots of vegan options at this restaurant, like a vegan cheese board, buffalo chick’n crostini, and a vegan bagel sandwich made with JUST Egg.
• Greenbeat: This build-your-own salad concept has a few vegan bowl options that are clearly marked, making this easy to order from.
• Hungry Pants: This bright and happy spot offers tons of vegan options on its menu that are clearly marked. Enjoy sweet potato tots with chipotle ranch, roasted cauliflower with pomegranate balsamic, and a vegan poke bowl, just to name a few.
• Infusion Tea: This cafe offers many vegan menu items, and makes any of their toasts or grilled cheeses vegan at no extra charge.
• JINYA Ramen Bar: This Japanese ramen noodle chain makes several vegan ramen bowls, and even subs Impossible meat to make gyozas and buns.
• Kiko Japanese Cuisine: This sushi bar offers vegan beef skewers, vegan grilled chicken, deep fried vegan chicken, vegan shrimp, and vegan eel.
• King Bao: This quick-service Asian eatery offers a “Veganville” Bao with crispy tofu, ginger relish, and scallions.
• Kres Chophouse: This Orlando steakhouse offers an entirely vegan menu which includes Oyster Rockefeller (made with oyster mushrooms), a chickpea and artichoke “crab” cake, and a vegan “beef” Wellington (made with a black bean pea protein blend.) We’re impressed!
• Lazy Moon Pizza: Order the whole pie or buy a slice with toppings like Daiya cheese, tempeh, vegan bbq chicken, and plenty of veggies to choose from.
• Mario’s Pizza: There are tons of vegan and gluten-free options here! For the side, order vegan cheese fries, vegan cheesy garlic knots, vegan pepperoni rolls, and even vegan s’more logs for dessert!
• Mellow Mushroom: Order their vegan tempeh hoagie, veggie pizza with Follow Your Heart cheese, or a salad for a mellow meal.
• The Mexican Camel: This Mexican-Mediterranean fusion restaurant offers a vegan shawarma bowl, a vegan taco bowl with Beyond Meat, falafel vegan pita, and a vegan quesadilla made with vegan cheese and Beyond Meat.
• Nile Orlando: This Ethiopian restaurant has a vegetarian section of its menu, but all items are vegan.
• Super Rico: This Colombian Bistro offers vegan empanadas, guac, arepas, and more.
• Tako Cheena: This Asian fusion restaurant offers a few vegan options on its menu, or can alter other menu items to be vegan.
• Woodlands: Offering South Indian cuisine, this vegetarian restaurant has lots of vegan options.

More Vegan City Guides

Discover the best vegan restaurants in some of the most popular cities in the world through World of Vegan’s travel guides. 

• Oakland Vegan Restaurants
• Berkeley Vegan Restaurants
• Best New York City Vegan Restaurants 
• Cleveland Vegan Restaurants
• Houston Vegan Restaurants in Texas
• Charlotte Vegan Restaurants in North Carolina
• Atlanta Vegan Restaurants in Georgia
• Vegan Guide to Fast Food Restaurants
• Best Tel Aviv Restaurants

We hope you enjoyed this guide sharing the best vegan restaurants in Orlando, Florida! If we missed any of your favorite spots for Orlando vegan food, please show them some love in the comments below. Many thanks to Hannah Kaminsky for her tremendous research and help with this article. This article may contain affiliate links that support our work at World of Vegan. Cover photo credit: Winter Park Biscuit Co.

The post Best Vegan Restaurants in Orlando appeared first on World of Vegan.

Austin is a thriving metropolis of progressive free spirits, artists, and innovators, on the cutting edge of culture and technology. Naturally, that means that veganism is a big factor in the local food scene.

No matter what restaurant you stumble into, you’re bound to find at least one promising meatless option, if not a full assortment of vegan eats.

That said, why slum around for basic beans and rice when there’s a wealth of 100% vegan establishments to discover? In this article, we’ll uncover some of the best vegan restaurants in Austin. For dessert, we’ll be including the best vegan ice cream Austin serves up!

Austin Vegan Food: Comfort Food Classics

What kind of Austin vegan restaurant guide would this be if we didn’t mention comfort food? All the classics you’ve been craving since childhood are readily available from a wide variety of genres, at any time of day. The best vegan food Austin has to offer awaits you!

Binge Kitchen

This take-out only spot offers classic southern meals made with modern, upgraded ingredients. I’m talking about buttery simmered cabbage that practically melts in your mouth, crunchy fried okra that could convert a hater, and gooey mac and cheese, just for starters.

Counter Culture

This food trailer offering takeout and delivery specializes in approachable, comforting classics like thick deli sandwiches and killer mac and cheese, but that’s not all. You can also find raw specialties like zucchini noodles and raw cheesecakes for healthier cravings, or on the flip side, strong mixed drinks if you’d rather re-tox than detox.

Sunny’s Backyard

This restaurant is billed as a pub, mixing up craft cocktails alongside locally brewed beers, but they’re also slinging food fast and furious from the trailer parked out front. Consider the crispy wonton cheese sticks served with sriracha aioli, giant soft pretzels, and crispy fried banana peppers, just to get started.

The Vegan Yacht

This establishment isn’t even a boat but has dropped anchor in South Austin after many years of roaming the streets as a food truck. Best known for their Freeto Burrito, a behemoth modeled after frito pie, stuffed with tempeh chili, salted corn chips, avocado, and vegan cheese.

Fast Food for Instant Gratification

When you just want a good burger and fries without a big fuss, there’s more than just Beyond Meat or Impossible patties to choose from. Quick, convenient, and affordable, you can get your grub on in no time. This is Austin vegan food, fast-food style.

Arlo’s

This food truck slings loaded burgers through several trailers situated strategically outside of bars and nearby college campuses for late-night cravings. Whenever other restaurants are closed, you can still count on Arlo’s to be there for you.

Nom Burgers

Nom Burgers stacks up beefy patties flanked by thick, soft pretzel buns. Juicy, messy, and just the right kind of greasy, no reluctant omnivore could call this rabbit food.

Plow Burger

Plow Burger keeps it simple with the classic fixing, wings, and fries. No frills, no surprises, no disappointments.

Project Pollo

Project Pollo is on a mission to make affordable, accessible plant-based fast food for the masses. Unflinchingly targeting mainstream heavyweights, their fried chicken can genuinely hold up to scrutiny against conventional sandwiches.

Revolution Vegan Kitchen

The folks at Revolution Vegan Kitchen want to start a plant-based revolution with their wide range of tacos, burgers, sandwiches, and snacks. No matter what, you need a side of gooey notzarella sticks to dunk into tomato marinara sauce, ASAP.

Healthy Vegan Food in Austin

Salt-free, sugar-free, no oil, or otherwise? Don’t worry, we’ve got plenty of healthy options for anyone with more restrictive diets.

ATX FOOD CO.

This place may not have the most memorable name, but you won’t forget about your meal here. You’ll be bowl-ed over by these bountiful grain and salad bowls, each one as nutritious as it is delicious. 

Casa de Luz

Casa de Luz first opened their doors in 1991 and has been a pillar of the community ever since. Every day there’s a new menu with one set meal, offered at a single flat rate. Macrobiotic principles dictate a balanced array of beans, grains, nuts, seeds, and vegetables, all organic and gluten-free. Wash it all down with bottomless cups of kukicha or rooibos tea. 

Conscious Cravings

They have the game all wrapped up. Everything on the menu can be made into a wrap, featuring succulent seitan chimichurri, Indian-style chickpeas, pan-seared tofu, and more.

Austin Vegan Food: Contemporary Upscale Options

There’s a limit to how fancy we get in this town; you’d be right at home wearing jeans and a t-shirt to the nicest establishments around. As you might expect, there’s no “fine dining” to be found as a purely plant-based experience, but there are certainly some nicer places worthy of celebrations and notable occasions. 

The Beer Plant

This is Austin’s first plant-based gastropub, combining composed plates with craft beer, wine, and cocktails. My personal favorite is the Caesar salad which is big enough to act as an entrée. Little gem lettuce tossed with briny capers, dairy-free parmesan, and a giant fillet of fried seitan chicken makes for an irresistible combination.

Bistro Vonish

This is elevated cuisine from an unexpected low-key food truck. This chef-driven, plant-based menu pushes the envelope with creative seasonal staples, such as marinated mushrooms grilled over mesquite and pecan wood, or sweet potato arepas topped with tofu cream cheese and a mild jalapeño jam.

Citizen Eatery

The dedicated team at Citizen Eatery ensures they cover all your brunching needs with their solid new American fare, available any day of the week. However, the breakfast-centric menu truly shines during weekend revelry. It’s the best thing to wake up to, whether you’re getting out of bed in the AM or PM.

Rebel Cheese

Rebel Cheese has won awards from mainstream media, competing with the best the state has to offer with its line of house-made cultured cashew cheeses. Enjoy a full sampler of their funky, flavorful wheels or indulge in a deli-style sandwich, which you can pair with an array of carefully curated wines.

Vegan Tex-Mex Restaurants

Spice up your life with the culinary creations of the Tejano people. For a true taste of Texas, these are absolute must-visits when looking for vegan food in Austin. Vegan Mexican food for the win!

Lick It Up

This silly-named restaurant is a more recent addition to the food scene but has quickly expanded to three Austin locations. The menu consists of street food staples like tacos, gorditas, quesadillas, tortas, nachos, flautas, burgers, and burritos. The carne asada fries are an appetizer that eats like a main, absolutely smothering steak-cut fries with seasoned soy chunks, vegan queso, tomatoes, avocado sauce, and crema.

Mr. Natural

This local Hispanic family-owned restaurant and store has been serving the community since 1988. They offer a wide range of plant-based dishes, including tacos, burritos, sandwiches, salads, and baked goods. Their mostly vegan menu uses fresh, whole, and organic ingredients, and they offer several gluten-free options!

Nissi VegMex

Nissi VegMex throws down some of the best, most authentic meatless Mexican from its modest trailer parked on Austin’s east side. From birria tacos to unbeatable crispy “cheek’n” flautas, every single entrée on the menu is a sure-fire hit.

The Vegan Nom

They are doing plant-based tacos right every day, but for those on a budget, their $2 migas tacos on Tuesdays are an absolute steal. Don’t forget that every order comes with free Lone Star beer, too.

Vegan Asian Food in Austin

Asians in Austin are the fastest-growing demographic group, doubling roughly every 12 years. It’s no wonder there are some great plant-based eateries with Eastern roots.

Bodhi Viet

This Vietnamese vegan food truck is staffed by volunteers from a local Buddhist temple. This is the place to fill up on pho, banh mi, and boba for pennies on the dollar. Nothing on the menu is more than $7 so go ahead, splurge to get a taste of everything! 

Best Vegan Ice Cream Austin Has To Offer

It’s hot in Austin pretty much all year round, so there’s never a bad time to cool down with some frozen treats. We all scream for vegan ice cream!

The difficulty comes when choosing where to stop, since you can find dairy-free cups and cones all across the map. 

Antisocial Ice Cream

Contrary to the name, this spot isn’t actually anti-social— it’s just anti-dairy. Located steps away from picturesque Lake Travis, you can get a view with your scoops, whether you prefer cookie dough, maple pecan, or mint chip.

Gati

Gati began life as part of Thai Fresh, but no restaurant could contain these coconut-based ice cream creations. Now with their own stand-alone shop, there are over 40 rotating flavors that offer more adventurous options like pandan, Thai tea, and black sticky rice horchata.

Milky Way Shakes

With its name as a hint, this establishment focuses solely on creating frosty blended beverages that will fulfill your sweet cravings with just one sip. Taking inspiration from galactic sources, your kicked-up classics are the Chocolate or Vanilla Eclipse, which both come adorned with a dark chocolate crescent moon, adorned with almonds and edible glitter.

Plant-Powered Pizza Party

Almost every pizza parlor within city limits offers the option to substitute vegan cheese or omit dairy-based toppings. With an abundance of choices, there is no need to bargain and beg with the waiter. We have numerous plant-based establishments that go well beyond the basics.

Big Nonna’s

A larger counterpart to the original Lil’ Nonna, Big Nonna’s is located up north to spread the pizza love across this fair city. More space means more room for different menu options, so you can also snag a milkshake or ice cream scoops to accompany your meal here.

Lil’ Nonna’s

This establishment fires up a thin-crust pie that would make a true-blue New Yorker proud. Topped with incredible ooey, gooey homemade dairy-free mozzarella cheese, this is a staple that would convert any omnivore.

Possum Pizza

Possum Pizza holds nothing back when crafting their off-the-wall slices, topping them with everything from vegan mac and cheese to plant-based shrimp alfredo. They’ve got all the basics, of course, but this is the place to get something new and exciting.

Vegan Bakeries in Austin

Thought we’d write an Austin vegan food guide without dessert recs? A visit to any of these establishments will bake your day.

Capital City Bakery

Capital City is famous for its fluffy cupcakes, but they also offer essential Texan eats with their sweet and savory kolaches. These local delicacies, popularized by Czech immigrants, resemble a cross between a Danish pastry and a stuffed bun. In my opinion, the jalapeño, meatless sausage, and vegan cheese kolache is the top choice if you can only try one.

Skull and Cakebones

Skull and Cakebones is technically situated out in Dripping Springs, but it’s just a short drive south that separates you from the most tender, flaky, buttery croissants you’ve ever wrapped your lips around. Get them plain, stuffed with chocolate or almond paste, or made into a savory sandwich; you can’t go wrong. You can also find their frosted cupcakes for sale in some local markets, such as Wheatsville Food Coop. 

Zucchini Kill Bakery

This uniquely named bakery makes tempting treats that will make you say, “I can’t believe it’s gluten-free!” The punk rock, female-led bakery uses no wheat, soy, or animal products in any of its cakes, cookies, or baked doughnuts. Even if you’re not local, you can order online for nationwide delivery.

Coffee and Tea

Oat milk is everywhere these days, so you’ll find no lack of dairy-free lattes to help you wake up in a good mood. If you want to pair your cup of Joe with some vegan food, you’ll want to hit these Austin hotspots featuring delectable vegan breakfast, brunch, lunch, and snack options, too.

Dear Diary Coffeehouse

This coffeehouse brews up more than a quick cup of coffee by providing a community space to support local artists. Stick around for regular writing, drawing, and crafting workshops while you drink coffees roasted in-house.

Fat Cats Austin

Fat Cats prides itself on serving only fair trade, organic coffee, and tea alongside a variety of treats baked fresh daily. Grab a tender blueberry lemon muffin to pair with your iced matcha lemonade, or a hearty taco crumble, potato and chz empanada to go with a strong cup of cold brew. You’ll never get bored with the constantly evolving menu.

Tellus Joe

Tellus Joe pours creative, colorful, and highly Instagrammable drinks that you won’t find anywhere else. Layering purple ube lattes with coconut charcoal whip or matcha over strawberry puree, the flavors are as bold as their looks. Don’t forget to grab a savory taco for breakfast, or a sandwich for lunch, too.

More Vegan-Friendly and Vegetarian Restaurants Austin Has To Offer

When it comes to vegan-friendly restaurants, Austin has you covered. Although this list is not completely comprehensive, it offers lots of great options to consider while in the Lone Star State! Please note that menu items and offerings may change, so please double-check before visiting!

• Anthem – This Asian fusion establishment offers several apps and sides that are clearly marked as vegan or vegetarian, such as vegan tempura cauliflower, lo mein noodle salad, and sambal fried okra.
• Biscuits + Groovy – Order biscuits and gravy here, and anything on the menu can be made vegan!
• Blue Sushi Sake Grill – This sushi restaurant has a pretty impressive vegan maki to choose from, with fillings like vegan tuna and vegan smoked salmon, tempura sweet potato, grilled asparagus, and bbg eggplant eel.
• Cava – This build-your-own salad concept restaurant offers plenty of vegan toppings that are clearly marked.
• Clay Pit – Offering Indian contemporary cuisine, Clay Pit has plenty of vegan and vegetarian options that are clearly marked on the menu. Choose from items like crispy cauliflower with curried hummus, channa masala, and aloo ghobi.
• Flower Child – This casual dining spot offers salads, bowls, and wraps. There are plenty of vegan options, which are all clearly marked.
• Habesha – This Ethiopian restaurant has a separate vegan/vegetarian section on its menu, with dishes like roasted chickpeas in spices, lentil dishes, and stews.
• Honest Mary’s – A fast-casual eatery that features bowls and includes a couple of vegan options, plus a vegan butter almond cookie for dessert!
• Kale Me Crazy – Located near Four Points and Lake Travis in West Austin, this super food cafe offers vegan smoothies, juices, Acai bowls, coffees, and teas. Most of their food can also be prepared vegan upon request.
• Kerbey Lane – This diner-style restaurant offers some vegan options like breakfast tacos, vegan pancakes, and a vegan bbq sandwich made with homemade veggie chorizo.
• Koriente – A Korean tea house that offers several vegan and vegetarian options, like their shiitake tofu bowl, fresh spring rolls, and Japchae.
• Nancy’s Sky Garden – This tea house offers vegan-friendly bowls, soup, and spring rolls with a healthy twist.
• Nixta Taqueria – This Mexican restaurant includes vegan beet tartare tostadas, smoked cabbage tacos, and a cauliflower taco that can be modified to be made vegan.
• Peace Bakery – This Mediterranean bakery and deli offers plenty of vegan dishes, from falafel to salads, hummus, and baba ganoush.
• Pinthouse Pizza – A pizza and craft brew establishment that offers vegan cheese on their pizzas, as well as Beyond Meat sausage.
• Tacodeli – If you’re in the mood for tacos, Tacodeli has a couple of vegan options for you! Enjoy their Freakin’ Vegan (black bean, pico de gallo, and avocado), and Papadulce (roasted sweet potato, grilled corn, and chipotle-camote sauce).
• Tarka Indian Kitchen – This casual Indian food chain’s menu includes vegan options that are very clearly marked. Enjoy tikka masala fries, madras soup, coconut curry, a several other vegan dishes.
• True Food Kitchen – Offering New American-style dishes, True Food Kitchen has plenty of clearly-marked vegan options like charred cauliflower, teriyaki quinoa bowl, Korean noodle bowl, and a pink lime tart for dessert.
• Via 313 Pizzeria – This pizzeria offers Detroit-style pizza, offering dairy-free cheese, and plenty of vegetable toppings to choose from.

More In-Depth Reviews of the Austin Vegan Food Scene

Can’t make up your mind with such a wealth of choices? Here are a few more detailed comparisons of my favorite places and other vegan guides:

• Best Meatless Fried Chicken in Austin
• The Best Vegan Milkshakes in Austin

More Vegan Travel Guides

Discover the best of vegan in the most popular cities in the world through World of Vegan’s travel guides and resources.

• Vegan Cruises
• Denver Vegan Restaurants
• Houston Vegan Restaurants
• Vegan in Kauai Guide
• Vegan Guide to Disney’s California Adventure
• Cleveland Vegan Restaurants
• Vegan in Chile Guide

This guide to vegan restaurants in Austin, Texas was written by Hannah Kaminsky, a vegan blogger, cookbook author, and resident of Austin. Video by Gina House. Cover photo from Nom Burgers’s Instagram.

The post The Ultimate Austin Vegan Food Guide appeared first on World of Vegan.

And the best part? You don’t have to sacrifice effectiveness in order to save the animals. Vegan-friendly sunscreens come in a range of SPF levels and formulations, from sprays to lotions to sticks, making it easy to find the perfect option for your skin type and lifestyle.

So grab your sunglasses, a beach towel, and a big ol’ bottle of SPF, because it’s time to get your tan on the vegan way.

What is Vegan Sunscreen?

Do animal ingredients in your sunscreen leave you feeling exhausted? It’s time to switch to a vegan version! Manufacturers can easily make sunscreen without using any animal-derived ingredients such as beeswax, lanolin, or collagen. Instead, they can choose plant-based or synthetic ingredients, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a cruelty-free option.

Plus, vegan sunscreen is often better for your skin and the environment, so it’s a win-win all around. But wait, you might be wondering, “Can’t I just use regular sunscreen?” Well, while traditional sunscreen might be effective, it often comes at a great cost to both animals and the environment.

By choosing vegan sunscreen and vegan sunscreen brands, you’re making a conscious decision to avoid animal products and the negative impact they have on the planet. And, let’s be real, who doesn’t love a good excuse to help out the environment?

100% Vegan Sunscreen Brands

Have you ever wondered if your favorite sun protection products are vegan-friendly? Luckily, there are a number of 100% vegan sunscreen brands out there that offer sun protection without any animal-derived ingredients or animal testing. So, whether you’re lounging on the beach or taking a hike in the mountains, you can keep your skin safe from harmful UV rays while staying true to your values.

Attitude

A lovely and lightweight sunscreen stick with an ocean-safe formula, non-nano zinc oxide, and a biodegradable cardboard tube. All without leaving a white cast on the skin. Choose the wonderful scent of orange blossom, lightly tinted, or unscented.

COOLA

With its chic packaging and high-quality ingredients, Coola brings a touch of glamour to sun protection. From its refreshing cucumber scent to its non-greasy formula, Coola’s sunscreens make sun protection feel like a pampering experience.

FRÉ

FRÉ is a skincare brand that specializes in creating sunscreen products for active women. Their sweat-resistant and non-greasy formulas provide reliable sun protection during workouts and outdoor activities. With an emphasis on using natural and vegan-friendly ingredients, FRÉ’s sunscreens are as gentle on the skin as they are on the planet.

Goddess Garden

Goddess Garden is a plant-powered sunscreen brand that offers reef-safe and non-toxic products. Their formulas are free from synthetic chemicals and harsh ingredients, making them safe for all skin types, even sensitive skin. With eco-friendly packaging and a commitment to sustainability, Goddess Garden’s sunscreens protect both your skin and the environment.

MyCHELLE

MyCHELLE is a natural sunscreen brand that uses mineral-based ingredients to provide effective sun protection. Their formulas come in lotions, sticks, liquids, or sprays and are free from harmful chemicals, making them safe for both your skin and the environment. The Tinted Sun Shield Liquid is a fantastic vegan sunscreen for the face, while also giving you a bit of extra color.

Mad Hippie

Mad Hippie offers a natural sunscreen that uses clear zinc oxide to provide broad-spectrum sun protection. Their non-nano, benzene-free, and reef-safe formulas are perfect for those who prioritize eco-conscious and skin-friendly ingredients. With a commitment to reducing waste and using sustainable packaging, Mad Hippie’s sunscreens are as kind to the planet as they are to your skin.

Native

Native offers mineral-based and reef-safe sun protection without compromising on effectiveness. Their non-greasy and lightweight formulas are perfect for daily use and sensitive skin, and they come in eco-friendly packaging. With two face scents (coconut and pineapple and unscented) and four body scents (rose, sweet peach and nectar, coconut and pineapple, and unscented), you’re sure to find one you love!

Pacifica Beauty

Pacifica’s vegan and cruelty-free sunscreen formulas are infused with natural and antioxidant-rich ingredients that nourish and protect the skin. With playful and colorful packaging, Pacifica Beauty’s sunscreens add a touch of fun to your sun protection routine. Check out their Sea & C, Mineral Sunscreen, Mineral Bronzing, and Kind Tint. The Pacifica Vegan Collagen sunscreen is a new fav!

Supergoop

Supergoop is a trendy sunscreen brand that offers innovative and highly effective products. Their formulas are infused with skin-loving ingredients that provide both sun protection and skincare benefits. With fun and playful packaging, Supergoop’s sunscreen in mists, creams, lotions, and oils make sun protection feel like a part of your daily beauty routine.

Best Cruelty-Free Sunscreen Brands with Vegan Options

Ready to soak up some sunshine, cruelty-free style? You don’t need to break the bank to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Check out our list of the best vegan-friendly drugstore sunscreen brands:

• Alba Botanica (All except their lip products, which contain beeswax)
• Babo Botanicals (Not all of their products are vegan, but they do have a list of vegan products here. They have a sensitive, vegan baby sunscren, as well.)
• Kiss My Face (All are vegan-friendly except Sport Hot Spots Sunscreen Stick, Kiss My Face Organics Face & Body Suncreen, Kiss My Face Organicas Kids Defense Sunscreen, and lip balms.)
• Panama Jack (Mineral Sunscreen Continuous Sprays are vegan.)
• Raw Elements (A few products contain beeswax, such as the Pink Lip
• SunBum (All except some their lip balms and diaper rash cream, which contain beeswax)
• Suntegrity (All except the Sport Line and Rebound and Staycation serums. Those contain beeswax.)
• Trader Joe’s (All of Trader Joe’s sunscreen formulas have recently been reformulated so that they’re all vegan-friendly and cruelty-free—yay!)

If you’re searching for an everyday lotion when you’re not in the sun, make sure to check out our Vegan Body Lotion Guide!

Don’t Get Burned by Non-Vegan Sunscreen: How to Spot Non-Vegan Ingredients

If you’re scouring the shelves on a last minute search for sunscreen, It’s important to know that not all brands contain these animal-derived ingredients. If you know which ingredients to look out for makes choosing the right one (especially in a new-to-you, out-of-the-way location) a little bit easier. Here are the most common non-vegan sunscreen ingredients you should avoid:

Beeswax: Sunscreens often contain beeswax as a thickening agent and emulsifier. As we all know, beeswax is not vegan-friendly.

Carmine: Carmine is a red pigment that gives sunscreens a pink or red color. It comes from crushing cochineal insects, which means it’s not vegan-friendly.

Collagen: Some sunscreens contain collagen, a protein found in the skin, bones, and connective tissues of animals.

Gelatin: Like collagen, gelatin is also a common ingredient in sunscreen. Gelatin is a thickening agent, but it’s not vegan-friendly.

Glycerin: Glycerin is an ingredients in many sunscreens, but it usually comes from animal fats (unless clearly stated that it’s from a vegetable source), making it not vegan-friendly.

Lanolin: Sunscreens may also contain lanolin, an oil derived from sheep’s wool. Lanolin is not vegan-friendly because it comes from an animal source.

Squalene: Sunscreens may also contain squalene, an oil derived from the liver of sharks. Squalene is not vegan-friendly because it comes from an animal source.

Frequently Asked Questions

More Summer Fun Lifestyle Guides and Recipes

• Kiddies at home and not sure how to keep them interested and happy? Try this DIY Vegan Summer Camp for Kids and 10 Animal Friendly Summer Activities!
• Searching for the perfect, refreshing drink to savor on a summer day? Check out this Cucumber Watermelon Cooler, Strawberry Peach Spritzer, and Vegan Orange Creamsicle Cocktail.
• Summer also means eating outdoors in the evening. If you love cooking on your barbecue grill, then this Best Vegan Barbecue Recipes guide is a must!
• Colorful salads are a must during the hot-weather season. These Sweet Tart Fruit Salad, Fresh Cucumber Watermelon Salad, and Picnic Pasta Salad are incredibly delicious!

As you may have guessed, vegan sunscreen is the only way to go for a summer full of sun-kissed fun without the guilt. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, hiking in the mountains, or just running errands around town, there’s a vegan sunscreen brand out there for you.

From the eco-conscious options of Attitude and Suntegrity to the luxurious feel of COOLA and Supergoop, there’s no shortage of amazing vegan sunscreen options on the market. So next time you’re reaching for sunscreen, give vegan sunscreen a try. Your skin, the animals, and the planet will thank you!

The post Vegan Sunscreen: Insider’s Guide to the Best Cruelty-Free Brands appeared first on World of Vegan.