Best Vegan Food In Chicago

Best Vegan Food In Chicago

Chicago’s food scene is as bold and diverse as the city itself, and vegans are in for a treat. From comforting plant-based soul food to upscale vegan fine dining, the Windy City offers something for every craving.

This guide to the best vegan food in Chicago will show you that you don't need meat or dairy to have a great dinner, whether you're a native or just visiting.

You'll find tasty, cruelty-free options. Let's see some of the best vegan restaurants in the city.

Vegan Culture And History In Chicago

Chicago, a city known for its rich culinary traditions, has undergone a remarkable transformation in embracing plant-based living. Over the past few decades, the Windy City has grown into one of the most vibrant vegan hubs in the United States.

Once dominated by deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs, the city now offers an impressive variety of plant-based dining experiences—from gourmet vegan tasting menus to casual food trucks and globally inspired street eats.

The roots of vegan culture in Chicago trace back to the counterculture movements of the 1960s and '70s, when vegetarianism gained traction alongside broader discussions on civil rights, environmentalism, and animal welfare.

Organizations like the Chicago Vegetarian Society, founded in the early 1970s, helped lay the foundation for what would later evolve into a robust vegan community.

Over the years, the rise of health consciousness, climate activism, and ethical awareness among Chicagoans has fueled the demand for plant-based alternatives.

Chicago's neighbourhoods—especially Logan Square, Wicker Park, and Uptown—now host a diverse range of vegan restaurants, bakeries, and grocery stores.

Events like the Chicago Vegan Test Kitchen and the annual Vegandale Festival attract thousands of attendees, reflecting the growing interest in cruelty-free lifestyles.

Influential vegan chefs and food entrepreneurs have also played a key role in normalizing veganism in both mainstream and fine dining scenes.

Estimates suggest that there are approximately 100,000 vegans currently living in the Chicago metropolitan area, with many more following plant-forward or flexitarian diets.

This number continues to rise as awareness spreads and accessibility to vegan options improves. With its rich cultural diversity and progressive outlook, Chicago stands as a shining example of how urban centers can embrace compassionate, sustainable living—one delicious bite at a time.

Best Chicago Vegan Recipes

1. Vegan Butter ‘Chicken' (with Seitan)

Anyone looking for the best vegan food in Chicago, where creative plant-based versions of international favourites shine, should try this tasty vegan butter ‘chicken' dish.

It’s delicious, comforting, and perfect served with rice or vegan naan for an indulgent plant-based meal.

Prep time: 20 minutes | Cook time: 30 minutes | Total time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4

Ingredients

• Seitan: 16 oz, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Coconut or vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons
• Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Ginger: 1-inch, grated
• Canned crushed tomatoes: 1 cup
• Raw cashews: ½ cup
• Water: ½ cup
• Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon
• Garam masala: 2 teaspoons
• Turmeric: 1 teaspoon
• Ground cumin: 1 teaspoon
• Smoked paprika: 1 teaspoon
• Chilli powder: ½ teaspoon (optional)
• Sea salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Method

1. In a pan over medium heat, heat the oil. Sauté onions until translucent.
2. Cook the ginger and garlic for one to two minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Stir in spices (garam masala, turmeric, cumin, paprika, chilli powder) and cook 1 minute.
4. Simmer for ten minutes, stirring regularly, after adding the crushed tomatoes.
5. Meanwhile, blend soaked cashews with water and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
6. Stir cashew cream into the tomato sauce, mixing well. Simmer another 5 minutes.
7. Add seitan pieces, coat well, and cook for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
8. Serve hot with naan or rice after adjusting the sea salt and adding cilantro as a garnish.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 22g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fibre: 3g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 450mg

Health Benefits

This dish is rich in plant protein from seitan and healthy fats from cashews, supporting muscle health and brain function. The spices offer anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, aiding digestion and boosting immunity naturally.

2. Vegan Ramen With Tofu Chashu

Vegan ramen with tofu chashu like this is a standout example of the best vegan food in Chicago, blending authentic flavours with creative plant-based twists. Loaded with noodles, veggies, and bold flavours, it’s a comforting and nourishing bowl.

Prep time: 25 minutes | Cook time: 30 minutes | Total time: 55 minutes | Servings: 4

Ingredients For the Broth

• Vegetable broth: 6 cups
• Shiitake mushrooms: 1 cup (fresh or dried)
• Garlic: 3 cloves, smashed
• Ginger: 1-inch, sliced
• Soy sauce or tamari: 2 tablespoons
• Miso paste: 1 tablespoon
• Sesame oil: 1 tablespoon

Ingredients For Tofu Chashu

• Firm tofu: 1 block, pressed and sliced into ½-inch thick pieces
• Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons
• Maple syrup: 1 tablespoon
• Rice vinegar: 1 tablespoon
• Smoked paprika: 1 teaspoon
• Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon

Ingredients For The Ramen Bowl

• Vegan ramen noodles: 12 oz
• Baby spinach or bok choy: 1 cup
• Green onions: ½ cup, sliced
• Nori: 1 sheet, cut into strips
• Sesame seeds: 1 teaspoon toasted

Method

1. In a large pot, combine vegetable broth, shiitake mushrooms, garlic, and ginger. Simmer for 25 minutes to develop flavour—strain and return broth to the pot.
2. Stir in soy sauce, miso paste, and sesame oil into the broth; keep warm on low heat.
3. For tofu chashu: Marinate tofu slices in soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, smoked paprika, and sesame oil for 15 minutes.
4. Slices of tofu should be pan-fried for 3–4 minutes on each side in a skillet heated to medium heat until golden brown and caramelized.
5. Drain and divide the cooked ramen noodles among bowls, following the directions on the package.
6. Add hot broth, tofu chashu, spinach or bok choy, green onions, nori strips, and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fibre: 5g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 700mg

Health Benefits

This ramen offers plant-based protein from tofu and antioxidants from shiitake mushrooms and greens. Miso provides probiotics for digestion, while ginger and garlic boost immunity and reduce inflammation, making it a wholesome and healing meal.

3. Vegan Kimchi Dumplings

These vegan kimchi dumplings combine tangy, spicy kimchi with tofu and glass noodles wrapped in delicate dumpling wrappers. Perfectly pan-fried or steamed, they make a flavourful appetizer or snack that’s both satisfying and vibrant.

Prep time: 25 minutes | Cook time: 15 minutes | Total time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4 (about 20 dumplings)

Ingredients

• Vegan kimchi: 1 cup, excess liquid drained & chopped
• Firm tofu: ½ block, crumbled
• Glass noodles (mung bean or cellophane noodles): ½ cup, cooked & chopped
• Green onions: 2, finely sliced
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Soy sauce or tamari: 1 tablespoon
• Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon
• Ginger: ½ teaspoon, grated
• Vegan-friendly round dumpling wrappers: 20
• Oil for frying

Method

1. In a large bowl, mix kimchi, tofu, glass noodles, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger until well combined.
2. Put one tablespoon of the filling in the middle of a dumpling wrapper that you have placed on your hand.
3. Moisten edges with water, fold wrapper in half, and press edges tightly to seal.
4. Over medium heat, add 1-2 tablespoons of oil to a non-stick skillet. Arrange dumplings flat side down.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes until bottoms are golden brown.
6. Cover the pan as soon as you add 1/4 cup water—steam for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the filling is heated and the wrappers are translucent.
7. For crispiness, remove the lid and cook out any leftover water for one to two minutes. With dipping sauce, serve hot.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, ~5 dumplings)

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fibre: 3g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 420mg

Health Benefits

Kimchi provides probiotics for gut health, while tofu adds plant protein and calcium. Ginger and garlic support digestion and immunity. These dumplings are a tasty way to enjoy fermented foods with balanced nutrition.

4. Truffle Mac And Cheese

Indulge in creamy, decadent vegan truffle mac and cheese elevated by the luxurious aroma of truffle oil. This meal is comfort food with a gourmet twist, suitable for special events or pleasant nights in. It is made with cashew-based cheese sauce and wonderfully cooked pasta.

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 20 minutes | Total time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4

Ingredients

• Elbow macaroni: 8 oz
• Raw cashews: 1 cup
• Unsweetened almond milk: 1 cup
• Nutritional yeast: 3 tablespoons
• Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons
• Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
• Onion powder: 1 teaspoon
• Smoked paprika: ½ teaspoon
• Sea salt: ½ teaspoon or to taste
• Vegan butter or coconut oil: 2 tablespoons
• Truffle oil: 1-2 teaspoons (adjust for aroma)
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley: ½ cup, chopped for garnish (optional)

Method

1. After cooking the macaroni according to the package's instructions until it's al dente, drain and set aside.
2. In a high-speed blender, combine soaked cashews, almond milk, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, sea salt, and vegan butter. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour the cashew cheese sauce into a saucepan and heat gently over medium-low heat, stirring until warm and slightly thickened (about 5 minutes).
4. Stir in truffle oil and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
5. Mix the sauce into the cooked pasta until it coats it evenly.
6. If preferred, top with minced parsley and serve right away.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 13g
• Fat: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fibre: 4g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 420mg

Health Benefits

This creamy, nutrient-rich truffle mac and cheese is a perfect example of the best vegan food in Chicago, combining comfort with wholesome, plant-based ingredients.

Nutritional yeast adds B vitamins, while truffle oil offers antioxidants. It’s a delicious way to enjoy nutrient-rich, plant-based comfort food.

5. Jerk Jackfruit Plate

This vibrant jerk jackfruit plate captures the bold, spicy flavours of Caribbean jerk seasoning paired with tender young jackfruit that mimics pulled meat texture. Served with rice and beans, it’s a hearty, flavourful vegan meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 30 minutes | Total time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

Ingredients

• Young green jackfruit: 2 cans
• Jerk seasoning: 2 tablespoons (store-bought or homemade)
• Olive oil 2 tablespoons
• Black beans: 1 cup, cooked
• White or brown rice: 2 cups, cooked
• Red bell pepper: 1, sliced
• Onion: 1 small, sliced
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Soy sauce or tamari: 1 tablespoon
• Lime: 1, juiced
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Method

1. The olive oil should be heated in a pan over medium heat. Add the bell pepper, onion, and garlic and sauté for 5 to 7 minutes.
2. Add shredded jackfruit, jerk seasoning, and soy sauce; stir well to coat. Cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add lime juice and cook an additional 5 minutes, allowing flavours to meld and jackfruit to caramelize slightly.
4. Serve the jerked jackfruit over rice with black beans on the side. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fibre: 10g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 500mg

Health Benefits

This flavourful jerk jackfruit dish highlights the best vegan food in Chicago by offering a nutritious, satisfying, and plant-based meal packed with health benefits.

The spices in jerk seasoning have anti-inflammatory properties, while beans provide plant protein and essential minerals for overall health.

6. Chickpea ‘Tuna' Pita

This chickpea ‘tuna' pita is a delicious vegan twist on a classic tuna sandwich, using mashed chickpeas and flavourful seasonings to mimic the texture and taste of tuna salad. Perfect for a quick, nutritious, and satisfying lunch.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 0 minutes | Total time: 10 minutes | Servings: 2

Ingredients

• Chickpeas: 1 can (15 oz)
• Vegan mayonnaise: 2 tablespoons
• Dijon mustard: 1 tablespoon
• Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon
• Celery: 1 stalk, finely chopped
• Red onion: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
• Capers: 1 tablespoon, chopped (optional)
• Garlic powder: ½ teaspoons
• Sea salt and pepper to taste
• Whole wheat pita pockets: 2
• Lettuce leaves or baby spinach

Method

1. The chickpeas should be chunky but mostly broken down after being mashed in a bowl with a potato masher or fork.
2. Add vegan mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, celery, red onion, capers, garlic powder, sea salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
3. Cut pita pockets in half and gently open to form pockets.
4. Stuff each pita half with lettuce or spinach leaves, then fill with chickpea “tuna” mixture.
5. To allow the flavours to blend, serve right away or chill for half an hour.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, 1 pita):

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fibre: 8g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 400mg

Health Benefits

This chickpea “tuna” pita is a delicious example of the best vegan food in Chicago, offering a wholesome and nutritious plant-based option. The veggies add antioxidants and vitamins, while lemon juice boosts immunity. This pita is a healthy, heart-healthy meal option.

7. Vegan Elote (Street Corn)

Vegan Elote is a delicious plant-based take on the classic Mexican street corn. Grilled corn is slathered with a creamy, tangy cashew-lime sauce and topped with chilli powder and fresh cilantro for a flavourful, dairy-free treat.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 15 minutes | Total time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Ingredients

• Corn: 4 ears, husked
• Raw cashews: ½ cup
• Water: ¼ cup
• Lime juice: 2 tablespoons
• Nutritional yeast: 1 tablespoon
• Garlic: 1 clove
• Smoked paprika: ½ teaspoon
• Chilli powder: ½ teaspoon (plus extra for garnish)
• Sea salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Method

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill corn, turning occasionally, until charred and cooked through (about 10-15 minutes).
2. Meanwhile, blend soaked cashews, water, lime juice, nutritional yeast, garlic, smoked paprika, chilli powder, and sea salt until smooth and creamy.
3. Once the corn is grilled, spread the cashew sauce evenly over each ear.
4. Sprinkle additional chilli powder and fresh cilantro on top. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, 1 ear)

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fibre: 3g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 150mg

Health Benefits

Cashews provide healthy fats and minerals like magnesium. Corn offers fibre and antioxidants. Lime juice boosts vitamin C, supporting immunity, while chilli powder promotes metabolism. This vegan elote is a nutritious, tasty snack or side.

8. Lion’s Mane Mushroom ‘Steak'

Lion's Mane mushrooms are ideal as a vegan ‘steak' because of their rich flavour and meaty texture. Pan-seared with garlic and herbs, this dish is hearty and satisfying—a gourmet plant-based alternative to traditional steak.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 15 minutes | Total time: 25 minutes | Servings: 2

Ingredients

• Lion’s Mane mushroom caps: 2 large
• Olive oil: 3 tablespoons
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Fresh thyme: 1 teaspoon
• Sea salt and pepper, to taste
• Soy sauce or tamari: 1 tablespoon
• Lemon juice: 1 teaspoon
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Method

1. Clean the mushroom caps gently with a damp cloth and slice each into 1-inch-thick “steaks.”
2. Heat a pan with olive oil over medium heat. Add the thyme and garlic, and cook for one minute.
3. Add mushroom steaks and cook 6-7 minutes per side until golden and tender.
4. During the last 2 minutes, drizzle soy sauce and lemon juice over the mushrooms.
5. Season with sea salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 150
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fibre: 3g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 350mg

Health Benefits

Lion’s Mane supports brain health and cognitive function, thanks to its neuroprotective compounds. It’s also rich in antioxidants and dietary fibre, helping boost immunity and digestive health, making this dish both tasty and nourishing.

Conclusion

Chicago proves itself as a top destination for vegan food lovers, offering a rich blend of creativity, flavour, and inclusivity.

Chicago’s vibrant and diverse dining scene truly showcases the best vegan food in Chicago, making it an essential destination for plant-based food lovers.

Whether you're a local or traveller, Chicago’s vegan scene is vibrant, diverse, and constantly evolving.

With welcoming neighbourhoods, exciting events, and mindful dining spots, it’s clear that plant-based living thrives here, making Chicago a must-visit for anyone passionate about delicious vegan cuisine.

I trust you enjoyed this article about the Best Vegan Food In Chicago. Stay tuned for more blog posts soon. Take care!

JeannetteZ

 

>>> Please click here to read my Vegan Travel Guides To World Destinations <<<

 

>>> Want To Learn How To Create Delicious, Cruelty-Free, Healthy AND 100% Vegan Meals? Try These Awesome Vegan Cooking Courses With A Free 7-DAY MEMBERSHIP<<<

 

Your Opinion Is Important To Me

Do you have thoughts, ideas, or questions? I would love to hear from you. Please leave me your questions, experiences, and remarks about the Best Vegan Food In Chicago in the comments below. You can also email me at Jeannette@LivingTheVeganLifestyle.org.

 

Disclosure

This post may contain affiliate links. I earn from qualifying purchases as an Amazon Associate and through other affiliate programs. Please read my full disclosure.

 

Here are links to some of my favourite articles:

Best Vegan Food In Las Vegas

Best Vegan Food In San Francisco

Best Vegan Food In Portland

Preparing Vegan Meals For The Week

Best Vegan Skin Care Products For Healthy And Happy Skin

Vegan Athlete Diets That Supercharge Your Performance And Recovery

Mouthwatering Vegan Soul Food Recipes That Bring Joy to Your Table