Discover The Best Chicago Vegan Restaurants
Discover The Best Chicago Vegan Restaurants
Chicago vegan restaurants thrive with diverse eateries that cater to plant-based palates, from upscale dining to cozy cafes, showcasing that plant-based eating can be both satisfying and gourmet.
From upscale restaurants to cozy cafes, the city's vegan establishments serve innovative and delicious dishes that prove plant-based eating can be both satisfying and gourmet.
Whether you're a dedicated vegan or simply exploring healthier, more sustainable dining options, Chicago's vegan restaurants offer something for everyone.
This article will explore some of the city's best vegan dining spots and what makes them stand out.
Vegan History In Chicago
Chicago's vegan history is deeply rooted in its progressive and diverse culinary landscape.
The city's embrace of plant-based eating dates back to the early 20th century, when health-conscious movements and vegetarian societies rose.
In the 1970s, the health food movement gained momentum, paving the way for the first wave of vegetarian and vegan restaurants.
Established in 1983, Chicago Diner has become an iconic fixture known for its hearty vegan comfort food and commitment to cruelty-free dining.
The 2000s saw a significant surge in veganism, driven by growing awareness of animal welfare, environmental concerns, and health benefits.
Pioneering chefs and restaurateurs began experimenting with innovative plant-based cuisines, drawing inspiration from global culinary traditions.
This period marked the rise of upscale vegan dining in Chicago, with establishments like Karyn’s on Green and the acclaimed Green Zebra pushing the boundaries of what vegan food could be.
Today, Chicago boasts a vibrant and diverse vegan restaurant scene, reflecting the city’s rich cultural tapestry.
Veganism has become a mainstream and celebrated part of Chicago’s culinary identity, from gourmet eateries to food trucks.
The city's commitment to sustainability and ethical eating continues to drive the evolution of its vegan offerings, making it a destination for plant-based food enthusiasts.
Vegan Restaurants In Chicago
Chicago is home to many vegan restaurants catering to diverse tastes and preferences. Here are some notable vegan dining spots in the city:
1. Chicago Diner
Location
Lakeview and Logan Square
Overview
The Chicago Diner has been a beloved fixture in Chicago since 1983, celebrated for its hearty and delicious vegan comfort food. This iconic diner has a warm, retro atmosphere that invites locals and tourists.
Known for its commitment to cruelty-free dining, the Chicago Diner’s motto, “Meat-free since '83,” reflects its long-standing dedication to serving plant-based meals that satisfy the soul and taste buds alike.
Specialty Dishes At The Chicago Diner
- Radical Reuben: This legendary sandwich features corned beef seitan, sauerkraut, vegan cheese, and creamy thousand island dressing, all served on toasted marbled rye bread. It's a must-try for anyone visiting the diner, offering a perfect blend of flavours and textures.
- Vegan Shakes: The Chicago Diner is renowned for its rich and creamy vegan shakes, available in various flavours, including classic chocolate and vanilla and unique options like peanut butter cookie dough and mint chocolate chip. These shakes are a delightful treat that exemplifies the diner’s innovative approach to vegan desserts.
The Chicago Diner stands out for its dedication to creating delicious, comforting vegan cuisine, making it a favorite destination for plant-based food enthusiasts in Chicago.
2. Althea Restaurant In Chicago
Location
Gold Coast
Overview
Althea is one of the premier Chicago vegan restaurants. It offers high-end, plant-based cuisine in an elegant setting with stunning city views.
Founded by renowned chef Matthew Kenney, Althea is dedicated to providing high-end, plant-based cuisine that is both innovative and nutritionally balanced.
The restaurant's sophisticated ambiance and breathtaking city views provide the ideal setting for savouring expertly prepared meals that bring out the flavours and textures of seasonal, fresh ingredients.
Specialty Dishes At The Althea Restaurant In Chicago
- Kimchi Dumplings: These delicate dumplings are filled with a flavorful mix of kimchi and vegetables, served with a tangy dipping sauce. The dish perfectly blends spicy and savoury, showcasing the restaurant’s skill in creating complex flavours with plant-based ingredients.
- Truffle Pizza: A gourmet pizza featuring a thin, crispy crust topped with cashew mozzarella, wild mushrooms, and a drizzle of white truffle oil. This luxurious dish is a favorite among patrons, offering a decadent taste experience that’s both vegan and indulgent.
Althea is a top choice for people looking for an elegant plant-based dining experience in Chicago because it is dedicated to producing high-quality, inventive vegan cuisine.
3. Upton’s Breakroom In Chicago
Location
West Town
Overview
Upton’s Breakroom stands out among Chicago vegan restaurants for its innovative comfort food and relaxed, fast-casual dining experience.
Known for its relaxed atmosphere and innovative vegan comfort food, Upton’s Breakroom offers a unique dining experience that combines the convenience of fast-casual dining with the quality and creativity of gourmet cuisine.
Both vegans and non-vegans enjoy the menu's variety of meals highlighting the seitan and jackfruit products from Upton's Naturals.
Specialty Dishes At The Upton’s Breakroom
- BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich: This crowd-pleaser features tangy barbecue jackfruit served on a toasted bun with coleslaw and pickles. The jackfruit’s meaty texture and smoky flavour make it a satisfying alternative to traditional pulled pork.
- Seitan Bacon Mac & Cheese: This creamy, comforting dish is made with vegan cheese sauce and topped with crispy seitan bacon. It is a rich and indulgent treat highlighting Upton’s expertise in creating delicious plant-based versions of classic comfort foods.
Upton’s Breakroom is dedicated to providing inventive and satisfying vegan meals. It is a favourite destination for those who enjoy flavourful and hearty plant-based cuisine in Chicago.
4. Handlebar Chicago
Location
Wicker Park
Overview
Handlebar is a cozy, bike-themed restaurant and bar in Chicago’s vibrant Wicker Park neighbourhood.
Known for its eclectic menu, which caters to vegan and vegetarian diners, Handlebar offers a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere.
The eatery is well-liked by people looking for delectable and ethically cooked meals because of its strong commitment to sustainability and locally produced food.
With its creative dishes and friendly environment, Handlebar has become a staple in Chicago’s plant-based dining scene.
Specialty Dishes At The Handlebar Chicago
- Buffalo ‘Chicken’ Wrap: This flavorful wrap is filled with crispy seitan, tangy buffalo sauce, lettuce, tomato, and vegan ranch dressing, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. It is a perfect blend of spicy and creamy, offering a satisfying and hearty meal.
- Vegan Nachos: A generous plate of tortilla chips topped with black beans, vegan cheese, pico de gallo, guacamole, and jalapeños. These nachos are a favorite for sharing, combining bold flavours and textures for an indulgent appetizer or main course.
Handlebar stands out for its inventive vegan and vegetarian cuisine. It creates a delightful dining experience that attracts a diverse crowd looking to enjoy wholesome and tasty plant-based meals in Chicago.
5. Kitchen 17 In Chicago
Location
Lakeview
Overview
Kitchen 17 stands out among Chicago vegan restaurants, known for its inventive plant-based comfort food and vegan deep-dish pizza.
The restaurant's laid-back, friendly ambiance makes it a terrific place to hang out with friends and family and enjoy tasty vegan food.
Kitchen 17 is celebrated for its vegan deep-dish pizza, a plant-based twist on a Chicago classic. Committed to using fresh, high-quality ingredients, the restaurant delivers a memorable dining experience for vegans and non-vegans alike.
Specialty Dishes At The Kitchen 17 In Chicago
- Vegan Deep-Dish Pizza: The restaurant’s standout offering features a thick, buttery crust filled with layers of vegan cheese, rich tomato sauce, and various toppings like mushrooms, spinach, and house-made seitan sausage. It’s a hearty and flavorful take on Chicago’s iconic deep-dish pizza.
- Burgers: Kitchen 17’s menu includes a range of delicious vegan burgers, such as the Classic Cheeseburger with lettuce, tomato, and vegan cheese and the BBQ Bacon Burger with smoky BBQ sauce and crispy seitan bacon. These burgers are crafted to be both flavorful and satisfying.
Kitchen 17 is known for its commitment to creating delicious, comforting vegan dishes, making it a standout destination for plant-based dining in Chicago.
6. Amitabul Vegan Restaurant In Chicago
Location
Lincoln Park
Overview
Amitabul is a unique vegan restaurant specializing in Korean cuisine in the Lincoln Park neighbourhood of Chicago.
The restaurant focuses on providing authentic Korean flavours through a plant-based lens, using fresh, wholesome ingredients to create traditional dishes that are both delicious and nutritious.
With a menu that blends classic Korean dishes with vegan ingredients, Amitabul offers a distinctive dining experience that highlights the rich culinary traditions of Korea while catering to modern dietary preferences.
Specialty Dishes At The Amitabul Vegan Restaurant In Chicago
- Dr. K’s Cure-All Noodle Soup: This hearty and flavorful soup features chewy noodles in a savoury broth loaded with vegetables, tofu, and a touch of Korean spices. It's designed to be comforting and refreshing, making it a popular choice among diners.
- Yin and Yang Delight: A meal of marinated tofu and mixed fresh veggies served over rice, full of color and vibrancy. The tofu is prepared with a rich, tangy sauce that perfectly complements the crisp vegetables.
Amitabul is dedicated to delivering authentic Korean flavours through a vegan approach. It provides a unique and fun dining experience for those looking for plant-based Korean food in Chicago.
7. Ground Control Chicago
Location
Logan Square
Overview
Ground Control is a notable addition to Chicago vegan restaurants, offering creative plant-based dishes and a selection of local craft beers in a relaxed, laid-back setting.
Known for its innovative and flavorful plant-based dishes, Ground Control offers a laid-back atmosphere where diners can enjoy a variety of comfort foods made from high-quality ingredients.
The restaurant is also a popular spot for craft beer enthusiasts. It features a selection of local brews that pair perfectly with its inventive vegan menu.
Specialty Dishes At The Ground Control Chicago
- BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich: This unique cuisine consists of pulled jackfruit cooked in a smokey barbecue sauce and served with pickles and coleslaw on a toasted bun. The jackfruit’s texture and flavour make it a satisfying alternative to traditional pulled pork sandwiches.
- Smoked Tofu Tacos: These are filled with smoky marinated tofu, fresh salsa, avocado, and a zesty lime crema, all wrapped in warm tortillas. They offer a flavorful and light option perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ground Control is celebrated for its inventive vegan comfort food and welcoming environment, making it a go-to destination for delicious plant-based meals and craft beer in Chicago.
8. Loving Heart In Chicago
Location
Lincolnwood
Overview
Loving Heart is a charming vegan café and restaurant in Lincolnwood. It offers a warm and inviting atmosphere for enjoying health-conscious, plant-based meals.
The eatery focuses on providing wholesome, organic dishes inspired by global flavours. Its menu caters to various dietary preferences, including vegan, gluten-free, and raw options.
Loving Heart is known for its commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients to create nutritious and delicious meals.
Specialty Dishes Loving Heart In Chicago
- Buddha Bowl: A vibrant and nutrient-dense dish featuring a mix of fresh vegetables, quinoa, avocado, and protein like tofu or tempeh. It’s topped with a flavorful dressing and garnished with seeds and nuts, making it a satisfying and well-balanced meal.
- Vietnamese Pho: This is a hearty and aromatic soup with a rich vegetable broth, rice noodles, and a medley of vegetables. Served with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and lime, it offers a comforting and flavorful plant-based take on a traditional Vietnamese classic.
Loving Heart is dedicated to creating delicious, health-conscious vegan cuisine. This makes it a go-to destination for those seeking nourishing meals in a cozy setting.
9. Veggie Grill In Chicago
Location
Various locations in Chicago
Overview
Veggie Grill is a popular fast-casual chain with a vibrant, plant-based twist to classic American comfort food.
With multiple locations across Chicago, Veggie Grill is known for its extensive menu featuring innovative vegan dishes catering to various tastes.
The restaurant emphasizes using fresh, high-quality ingredients to create satisfying and flavorful meals.
Its modern, casual atmosphere makes it a great spot for a quick lunch, dinner, or even a casual meet-up with friends.
Specialty Dishes At The Veggie Grill In Chicago
- Santa Fe Crispy Chicken Sandwich: This standout item features crispy, breaded chickpea patties topped with avocado, lettuce, tomato, and a spicy Santa Fe sauce, all served on a toasted bun. It’s a flavorful and hearty alternative to traditional chicken sandwiches.
- Buffalo Wings: Made from plant-based ingredients, these wings are coated in a tangy buffalo sauce and served with vegan ranch dressing. They offer a spicy, satisfying appetizer or snack that rivals traditional wings in both taste and texture.
Veggie Grill is celebrated for its delicious and creative plant-based dishes, making it a popular choice for those seeking flavourful vegan meals in a fast-casual setting across Chicago.
10. Soul Veg City In Chicago
Location
South Side
Overview
Soul Veg City is a beloved name among Chicago vegan restaurants. It offers hearty plant-based soul food that honors traditional culinary heritage.
Established in 1981, it has become a cornerstone of the community, known for its hearty and flavorful dishes reflecting soul food's rich culinary heritage.
The restaurant prides itself on using wholesome ingredients to create satisfying, nutritious meals that honour the essence of classic soul food.
Specialty Dishes At Soul Veg City In Chicago
- BBQ “Rib” Tips: This signature dish features seitan ribs smothered in a tangy barbecue sauce and served with classic sides like collard greens and cornbread. The seitan's meaty texture and smoky flavour make it a standout choice for anyone craving hearty comfort food.
- Mac And Cheese: A beloved staple on the menu, the mac and cheese is made with a creamy, plant-based cheese sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. It's a rich and comforting dish that captures the essence of traditional mac and cheese while remaining completely vegan.
Soul Veg City is celebrated for its dedication to delivering authentic soul food flavours through a plant-based lens. It is a go-to destination for those seeking hearty, satisfying vegan meals on Chicago's South Side.
11. Can’t Believe It’s Not Meat In Chicago
Location
South Loop
Overview
I Can’t Believe It’s Not Meat is a vibrant vegan eatery in Chicago’s South Loop. It is renowned for its creative and indulgent plant-based fast food.
The restaurant offers vegan versions of classic comfort foods, providing hearty and flavorful options that appeal to vegans and non-vegans alike.
Focusing on satisfying the cravings for traditional fast food favourites, I Can’t Believe It’s Not Meat combines taste and nutrition in a fun and casual setting.
Specialty Dishes At The Can’t Believe It’s Not Meat In Chicago
- Cheeseburgers: The menu features a variety of vegan cheeseburgers, including the Classic Cheeseburger with a savoury plant-based patty, vegan cheese, lettuce, tomato, and pickles. These burgers are designed to deliver the satisfying flavours and textures of traditional cheeseburgers without animal products.
- Hot Dogs: The restaurant offers plant-based hot dogs that are grilled to perfection and served with a range of toppings, including mustard, ketchup, onions, and relish. They provide a classic hot dog experience with a vegan twist.
I Can’t Believe It’s Not Meat stands out for its dedication to recreating beloved fast food items in a vegan format.
This makes it a popular spot for those who enjoy flavorful and comforting plant-based meals in a casual atmosphere.
FAQ
1. Are There Vegan Soul Food Options In Chicago?
Answer: Soul Vegan and Majani Soulful Vegan Cuisine offer delicious vegan soul food dishes.
2. Can I Find Vegan International Cuisine In Chicago?
Answer: Irazu offers Costa Rican vegan dishes, and Amitabul specializes in Korean vegan cuisine.
3. What Are Some Fun And Unique Vegan Dining Experiences In Chicago?
Answer: No, Bones Beach Club offers a fun tiki bar atmosphere with a vegan menu, perfect for a unique dining experience.
4. Are There Vegan Brunch Options In Chicago?
A: Ground Control and The Chicago Diner offer fantastic vegan brunch options that you’ll love.
5. Can I Find Vegan Ice Cream In Chicago?
A: Yes, Kāl'ish is known for its delicious vegan ice cream options, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
6. Where Can I Get Vegan Fast Food In Chicago?
Answer: Upton's Breakroom is a great spot for vegan fast food, featuring a menu of delicious and convenient options.
7. Are There Any Vegan Chains In Chicago?
Answer: Yes, Native Foods Café is a popular all-vegan chain that offers a diverse menu of plant-based dishes.
Conclusion
Chicago’s vegan restaurant scene highlights the city's diverse and innovative culinary landscape.
These eateries showcase a rich variety of plant-based cuisines, from upscale dining experiences to casual comfort food.
Whether you're a dedicated vegan or simply exploring healthier dining options, Chicago offers various choices that promise delicious and satisfying meals for every palate.
I trust you enjoyed this article, “Discover the Best Chicago Vegan Restaurants.” Please stay tuned for more blog posts soon. Take care!
JeannetteZ
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