Traveling as a vegan is always a little difficult, but plant-based food is more popular today than ever before. You can stick to your karma-free diet and explore this great country. You just need to know where to go.
We asked our editors to give us the skinny on their favorite veg-friendly menus, and it turns out there are tons of delectable options wherever you go. Whether you're flexitarian, pescatarian, full-on vegan or gluten-free, their choices bring the plant-based win for you and your whole picky crew—but don't just take out word for it. Try them today!
Here are some of the best vegan restaurants from Los Angeles to Miami and everything between.
See also: 19 of the Best Date Spots Across America
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1 Moreland Ave. Ste. F / Website
This ultra-Instagramable bright pink plant-based taco shop brings all the goodness of Mexican cuisine guilt-free through mimicking the texture of real meat through proteins such as soy and seitan. Their street fare and nachos, complete with lettuce, black beans, corn salad, pico, guacamole, vegan queso and a protein of your choice, are fan-favorites. Malaysian, southern, pizza and sweets are just part of what rounds out Atlanta's full list.
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685 E Durant Ave. / Website
Perfect for an afternoon bite, Ajax Tavern sits pretty at the base of Aspen mountain—right next to the Silver Queen Gondola. The ultimate casual fine dine destination serves more than traditional favorites, with an extensive menu for meat and vegan lovers alike. Chow down on fall must-haves like the Ajax truffle fries and cauliflower gratin or get adventurous with the whipped ricotta tartine and heirloom carrot and cauliflower “steak.” Although the meals pack a punch, Ajax’s flavor goes far beyond the plate with its sun-drenched patio with impeccable mountainside views. Even more fresh delights are on the menu via Aspen's full list.
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5 Craigie Circle / Website
This neighborhood bistro near Harvard’s campus partners with local farmers, fisherman and foragers to offer seasonal and ingredient-driven dishes. An appetizing starter includes roasted tomatoes with sweet corn, cashew nage, herby crumbs and fennel rounds. For your main course, try their grilled eggplant paired with fresh tomato, yellow eyed peas, dolgo vinaigrette and sunflower seeds. Don’t stop there! Desserts at Forage are to die for— who wouldn’t love a lemon cake topped with pear puree and fresh berries on a hot summer day? If you’re overwhelmed with the array of wonderful choices, Forage also offers a vegetarian or vegan tasting menu to make the most of your meal. What's more, Asian-inspired flavors, vegan ice cream, a fine dining surprise and more still await on Boston's full list.
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3411 N. Halsted St.; 2333 N. Milwaukee Ave. / Website
Proudly meat free since ’83, Chicago Diner serves up America’s favorite comfort foods in Lakeview and Logan Square that even dedicated meat eaters are sure to enjoy. Tall stacks of pancakes, biscuits and seitan sausage gravy, delicious dairy-free milkshakes and more diner classics are available for your next vegan weekend brunch. Ready for dessert? There's a vegan donut shop, plus a raw food spot and more on Chicago's full list.
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5600 W. Lovers Lane / Website
Fueled by fun is the daily mantra for this delicious spot that has developed a loyal following since first opening its doors. Using over 4 million pounds of fruit annually, it offers immunity shots, plant-based meals aplenty, and bowls galore. Pro tip: Order the Holy Frijole or Impossible Burrito. Need to go someplace with a mixed menu? Dallas' full list features vegan-friendly spots with steaks as well as other all-plant eateries.
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2393 Montauk Hwy., Bridgehampton / Website
Do not fret about the lack of options if the friends want to do a sushi night since fish is no longer your friend. Not only does Yama Q have a strong sushi game, but its dinner entrees are off the charts. The Vegan Tofu Lasagna, topped with tofu, cashew, shitake, broccoli and marinara sauce is both gluten free, vegan and delicious. From edamame hummus to chilled buckwheat noodles, impossible chorizo and more, there's lots of plant-based goodies to enjoy on The Hampton's full list.
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324 Coral St., Honolulu / Website
The lunch spot of your dreams—ARVO offers a selection of light and crunchy small plates that are the perfect complement to a caffeinated creation. From variations of toast ranging from a loaded avocado piece to one topped with ricotta and honey, ARVO pulls out all the stops when it comes to your favorite midday snacks and coffee pick-me-ups. And look out for ARVO’s second location, coming soon to Waimea. Even more than that, there are nine other amazing vegan menus on Hawai'i's full list.
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449 West 19th St. / Website
Located in the charming Houston Heights neighborhood and rated as one of the best vegan restaurants in town, this trendy spot has revamped clean and healthy eating. Indulge in 100% plant-based meals using top-notch ingredients. Menu selections like the Bistro Burger and Forbidden Pad Thai will keep you coming back for more. Dig into more plant-based bites on Houston's full list.
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5570 W Flamingo Rd ste 110 / Website
Dumplings and sushi have never been tastier—even when they’re 100% animal free. Chef Kenny Chye is crafting umami delights ranging from spicy vegan crispy beef to jackfruit hand rolls. Make sure to try the tofu specialties complete with stir-fried veggies and delectable sauces. Vegas might be sin city, but it's got plenty of karma-free plant-based chefs serving boss menus on its full list.
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8905 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood / Website
Inspired by a love for Mother Earth and all of her creations, dishes like ceviche, flautas, tacos, and gorditas get a plant-based twist at this vegan spot. Traditional Mexican cuisine is served alongside a stellar drink menu centered around ethical agave-based spirits like mezcal and tequila. Beverage director Maxwell Reis crafts cocktails like the Jalisco Highball and signature Purista Margarita to highlight Gracias Madre’s impressive selection of liquor, including some exclusive to the restaurant. L.A. is a plant-based mecca, and it always has been, so definitely check the other 11 amazing vegan menus on the city's full list.
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105 NE 24th St. / Website
Experience modern plant-based cuisine at Plant Miami. Not only does this spot specialize in certified vegan and kosher dishes, but also places an added emphasis on conscious cookery. With much of the produce sourced from a local resource known as Paradise Farms, only the most vibrant, pure and organic make it onto your plate. Executive Chef Horacio Rivadero and Pastry Chef Veronica Manolizi artistically formulate the menu based on seasonal and South Florida influences. These culinary masterminds make use of an expansive variety of super foods, medicinal herbs, ancient spices and 67 varieties of edible flowers to elevate the nutritious offerings. Be sure to try the truffle noodles or tartufada alongside one of the many biodynamic and organic alcoholic pairings. Explore even more vegan finery on Miami's full list.
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38 E 19th St. / Website
Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten elevates plant based cuisine at this Gramercy neighborhood eatery. Located just above Union Square, ABCV prides itself on utilizing the finest seasonal ingredients from family farms as well as non-GMO artisanal and organic goods whenever possible. Menu items include green chickpea hummus with fresh pita and crudite, ancient grain pilaf and mushroom walnut bolognese. Enjoy these high vibrational foods in ABCV’s modern bohemian atmosphere of communal tables, all-white furniture and pops of millennial pink. The fare is fresh and simple but oh, so good. Don't stop there, because there are even more delicious plant-based dishes on NYC's full list.
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1617 Westcliff Drive, Newport Beach / Website
Nothing tastes as good as healthy feels and that’s exactly how diners feel after eating at Cafe Gratitude in Newport Beach. Executive chef Seizan Dreux Ellis’ commitment to being grateful for food, the earth and human company is illustrated through his food made with only the freshest ingredients. For lunch fare, explore Liberated featuring basil kelp noodles or Glorious, a blackened tempeh wrap. Leave some room for later, because there are six other fabulous vegan menus on Orange County's full list.
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700 S. Rosemary Ave. Ste. 142, West Palm Beach / Website
At PLANTA, the 100% plant-based cuisine leaves quite the impression with its locally sourced ingredients, heart-healthy flavors and sustainable packaging. Fulfilling its mission of giving power to the plants, PLANTA features a variety of vegan favorites such as the shareable bang bang broccoli or the signature PLANTA burger. Not to mention PLANTA’s selection of refreshing sushi rolls, featuring a plant-based twist on traditional raw favorites like the California roll and spicy tuna roll. Need more yum? Try the other seven vegan eateries on Palm Beach's full list.
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1221 Locust St. / Website
Since 2011, Chefs Rich Landau and Kate Jacoby have offered exquisite vegetable dining experiences to city goers. The fine dining establishment is located in a restored 19th century mansion fit with grand fireplaces and wonderful walnut wainscoting. Order grilled gold bar squash from The Dirt List, medium plates of single seasonal vegetables, or try richer and more carefully curated plates from The Hot Kitchen. You’re in for a treat with their spicy dan dan noodles or eggplant braciole. From pizzas to bao and plant-based fine dining, there's more to be had on Philly's full list.
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1503 30th St., South Park / Website
We’re keen on Kindred—an eccentric bar that plays heavy-metal tunes. Start your evening with housemade snacks, from garlic and chili “cologne” popcorn to hearts of palm farinata flatbread. Get your hands dirty with Memphis barbecue jackfruit paired with pulled soy curls or venture out with the Soul Crush, cornmeal crusted gardein fish with parsnip potato mash. Finish off the night with gooey s’more sliders. For drinks, sip the whimsical collection of cocktails with flavors ranging from refreshing to robust. Looking for a mellower atmosphere? Try the six other standout vegan eateries on San Diego's full list.
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2000 Union St. / Website
Wildseed serves diverse creative plates, all plant-based. Chef Alejandro Morgan uses seasonal produce to create high-quality dishes influenced by global flavors. The restaurant offers plates like the mushroom and spinach patty Wildseed burger. Try cocktails made with fresh juices, local herbs and homemade extracts like the Holy Basil made of green chile vodka and cucumber basil shrub, as well as local beer and vegan biodynamic wines. As a plant-based paradise, you've got to try the other fine feasts on San Francisco's full list.
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4236 N. Central Ave., #100, Phoenix; 60 W. Vaughn Ave., #101, Gilbert; Website
With woks blazing and the wood-fired grill ignited, this Asian-inspired spot is not just a savory vegan eatery, but a sensory affair. The best seats in the house are court-side to the kitchen, where Clever Koi is opening up their dining experience so that guests can watch their food being prepared in anticipation, before digging into a choice of steam-buns, noodles, dumplings and more, on the ever-changing plant-based menu. For a craft cocktail or sake, retreat to the bar where the beverages are designed to pair with your meal, elevating the flavors inspired by destinations such as Thailand, Korea and Indo-China—but wait! There's more fine vegan food on Scottsdale's full list.
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17230 Monterey Road, Morgan Hill / Website
If you're looking for a plant-based meal that still feels hearty, Craft Roots is the place for you. Based in Morgan Hill, Craft Roots is a family-run vegan bar and grill with an artisanal touch. The menu features classic greens like the strawberry summer salad with pickled beets, toasted almonds, vegan feta and strawberry vinaigrette as well as more substantial offerings like the chili with pumpkin seeds, chili lime corn nuts and cashew-lime crema. Diners can also enjoy sips from local breweries and vegan mixed drinks, such as the lychee martini, from their extensive craft beer and cocktail menu. Craft Roots also aims to source their healthy whole foods locally—they partner with organic farms in the area and rotate their menu seasonally for fresh and evolving options. In the mood for some lighter fare, or perhaps some east-west fusion? Check out Silicon Valley's full list.
Photography by: Brian Ach
