As vegetarianism continues to grow in popularity, finding cities with outstanding vegetarian dining options has become increasingly important for food lovers and travelers alike. Whether you’re a lifelong vegetarian or simply looking to explore plant-based cuisine, certain cities across the United States stand out for their vibrant vegetarian food scenes. Here’s a guide to the best cities nationwide for vegetarian dining, complete with recommendations for must-visit restaurants and local tips.
1. Portland, Oregon
Portland is often regarded as the vegetarian capital of the U.S. thanks to its diverse and innovative plant-based dining options. With a strong focus on sustainability and farm-to-table practices, this Pacific Northwest city caters to vegetarians with a range of cuisines.
Must-Try Spots:
- Blossoming Lotus: Known for its globally inspired vegan and vegetarian dishes, such as the Chickpea Chana Masala and Lotus Macro Bowl.
- Farm Spirit: An upscale, reservation-only spot that serves creative multi-course vegan meals using local ingredients.
- Veggie Grill: A fast-casual chain offering comfort food favorites like vegan burgers and buffalo cauliflower wings.
Why It’s Great for Vegetarians:
- Abundance of farmers’ markets.
- Creative chefs experimenting with plant-based cuisine.
- Strong community of vegetarians and vegans.
2. Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles has a thriving vegetarian food scene that mirrors its health-conscious culture. From upscale plant-based restaurants to food trucks and juice bars, LA offers countless options for vegetarians.
Must-Try Spots:
- Crossroads Kitchen: Celebrity-favorite fine dining with standout dishes like artichoke oysters and tagliatelle Bolognese.
- Gracias Madre: A vegan Mexican eatery offering delectable dishes like butternut squash quesadillas and mushroom mole enchiladas.
- Sage Plant-Based Bistro: Known for its hearty portions and a menu featuring jackfruit tacos and vegan pizzas.
Why It’s Great for Vegetarians:
- Innovative menus featuring fusion cuisine.
- Year-round access to fresh produce.
- A wide variety of plant-based bakeries and dessert spots.
3. New York City, New York
The culinary capital of the U.S. also excels in vegetarian dining. From trendy spots in Manhattan to hidden gems in Brooklyn, New York City offers vegetarian and vegan dishes to satisfy every craving.
Must-Try Spots:
- Beyond Sushi: A plant-based sushi chain with creative rolls made from vegetables and unique sauces.
- Avant Garden: An intimate eatery specializing in elevated vegan small plates like smoked eggplant and hen-of-the-woods mushrooms.
- Superiority Burger: A quirky spot known for its vegetarian burgers and creative side dishes.
Why It’s Great for Vegetarians:
- Diverse international cuisine tailored for vegetarians.
- Late-night vegetarian options.
- A booming vegetarian fast-casual scene.
4. Austin, Texas
Austin might be known for its barbecue, but it’s also home to a burgeoning vegetarian food culture. The city’s vibrant food truck scene and progressive food movement make it an excellent destination for plant-based eaters.
Must-Try Spots:
- The Vegan Nom: Famous for its vegan breakfast tacos and cashew queso.
- Bouldin Creek Cafe: A local favorite offering comfort food classics like veggie-filled omelets and tempeh Reubens.
- Arlo’s: A plant-based food truck serving indulgent options like the Bac’n Cheeze Burger.
Why It’s Great for Vegetarians:
- A food truck culture with many vegetarian-friendly options.
- Innovative vegan barbecue offerings.
- Laid-back vibe perfect for exploring new flavors.
5. Asheville, North Carolina
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville boasts a thriving vegetarian scene fueled by local, organic ingredients. Known for its artsy vibe and farm-to-table ethos, this city is a haven for plant-based diners.
Must-Try Spots:
- Laughing Seed Cafe: A pioneer in vegetarian dining, serving creative dishes like the Indian Pakora Plate and Cuban Black Bean Cakes.
- Plant: A fine dining experience offering refined vegan dishes like hazelnut-encrusted tempeh and smoked hummus.
- Green Sage Cafe: Perfect for breakfast or lunch, with options like avocado toast and superfood bowls.
Why It’s Great for Vegetarians:
- A focus on local, organic ingredients.
- Cozy cafes and unique dining experiences.
- A strong sense of community and support for sustainable practices.
6. San Francisco, California
San Francisco’s diverse and progressive food culture has made it a hotbed for vegetarian cuisine. From Michelin-starred restaurants to casual eateries, the city offers an array of vegetarian delights.
Must-Try Spots:
- Greens Restaurant: A trailblazer in vegetarian fine dining, offering breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
- Shizen Vegan Sushi Bar: Creative sushi rolls crafted entirely from plants.
- Millennium: A plant-based fine dining spot with innovative dishes like black bean torte and house-made pastas.
Why It’s Great for Vegetarians:
- Strong emphasis on sustainability and organic produce.
- Endless options for plant-based global cuisine.
- A foodie culture that celebrates innovation.
7. Denver, Colorado
Denver’s outdoor lifestyle aligns perfectly with its growing vegetarian food scene. With a mix of health-focused eateries and creative plant-based spots, the Mile High City is a great choice for vegetarians.
Must-Try Spots:
- Watercourse Foods: A beloved vegetarian mainstay known for comfort dishes like cauliflower wings and mac ‘n’ cheese.
- City, O’ City: A quirky restaurant offering everything from vegan poutine to pizza.
- Vital Root: A health-conscious spot with a globally inspired menu.
Why It’s Great for Vegetarians:
- A health-focused food culture.
- Options for quick bites and upscale dining.
- A welcoming atmosphere for all types of eaters.
8. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago’s robust food scene extends to vegetarians with an impressive variety of plant-based options. Whether you’re craving deep-dish pizza or a gourmet vegan meal, Chicago delivers.
Must-Try Spots:
- The Chicago Diner: A legendary vegetarian spot famous for its vegan milkshakes and Radical Reuben.
- Handlebar: A laid-back spot offering dishes like seitan wings and vegan gyros.
- Upton’s Breakroom: A cafe connected to a vegan protein factory, featuring inventive dishes like jackfruit tacos.
Why It’s Great for Vegetarians:
- A mix of comfort food and high-end options.
- An inclusive food culture.
- Iconic restaurants with vegetarian adaptations of classic Chicago dishes.
Tips for Exploring Vegetarian Dining Nationwide
To make the most of your vegetarian dining experiences, consider these tips:
- Research Ahead: Use apps like HappyCow or Yelp to find the best vegetarian-friendly spots in any city.
- Visit Farmers’ Markets: Many cities offer farmers’ markets where you can sample local vegetarian fare.
- Ask for Recommendations: Locals often know the best hidden gems for vegetarian dining.
- Be Open to Fusion Cuisine: Many restaurants blend flavors from different cultures to create innovative vegetarian dishes.
- Explore Food Trucks: Some of the best plant-based meals can be found at food trucks, especially in cities like Austin and Portland.
Final Thoughts
From coast to coast, cities across the U.S. are embracing the vegetarian movement with open arms. Whether you’re planning a cross-country road trip or looking to explore your local dining scene, these cities offer a wealth of options to satisfy your plant-based cravings. With a mix of creativity, diversity, and sustainability, the vegetarian dining scene nationwide is more vibrant than ever.
