Eating out shouldn’t mean compromising your diet, and in Eau Claire, it doesn’t have to! The city is packed with restaurants serving delicious dishes that cater to every lifestyle. From hearty plant-based meals to crave-worthy gluten-free comfort food, Eau Claire offers a diverse culinary scene for health-conscious diners. This guide highlights the best spots to satisfy your taste buds without worry, focusing on restaurants with dedicated menu items, thoughtful substitutions, or entire sections built for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diners.
Vegetarian Havens
Eau Claire boasts a variety of restaurants that cater specifically to vegetarians, offering flavorful and satisfying meat-free options.
Wonders of Nature Cafe: This vegetarian paradise offers fresh, nourishing eats crafted from local and organic ingredients. The menu features wraps, smoothies, salads, and baked goods.
Valley Burger Company: Proving that burgers aren’t just for meat eaters, Valley Burger Company offers a house-made veggie patty that’s every bit as satisfying as the real thing.
Juanita’s: This restaurant goes big on vegetarian options. You can load up on veggie burritos, tacos, or sizzling fajitas packed with peppers and onions.
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Muang Thai: Rich curries, savory noodle dishes, and vibrant stir-fries make Muang Thai a vegetarian dream.
Mexican Restaurants: Several lively Mexican spots in Eau Claire make it easy for vegetarians to find something delicious. You can choose from veggie tacos, cheese enchiladas, burritos, and so much more.
Vegan Delights
For those seeking plant-based options, Eau Claire offers a range of restaurants with creative and delicious vegan dishes.
The Nucleus: This Water Street favorite nails the art of vegan brunch. Their vegan menu includes hits like the vegan chicken crunch wrap that taste just as good as the meaty versions. Dishes like their salads and seasonal plant-based specials bring big flavor and creativity to the table. The Nucleus started as a small cafe with just a few tables and a great view of Water Street in downtown Eau Claire. Nearly two decades later, the tradition of full body and full flavor breakfast, brunch, and lunch remains. Pancakes, omelettes, the Yeti Skillet. There's something for every appetite, and we always make an effort to be mindful of dietary restrictions and preferences. Whatever you choose, come hungry. Enjoy brunch your way with a full menu of breakfast favorites and lunchier options as well.
Shanghai Bistro: A go-to for Asian-inspired dishes, Shanghai Bistro makes it easy to eat vegan and meatless.
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Thai Orchid: A local favorite for authentic Thai food, Thai Orchid serves vegan-friendly versions of classics like green curry, Pad Thai, and massaman curry.
3rd & Vine: This craft beer and cheese bar has a surprising vegan side. 3rd & Vine's rotating vegan specials (think crispy tofu sandwiches and vegan curries) make this a must-visit for anyone who loves creative comfort food and good vibes.
Gluten-Free Gems
Those avoiding gluten will find a variety of restaurants in Eau Claire that offer gluten-free options without sacrificing flavor.
Mona Lisa’s: One of Eau Claire’s most beloved fine-dining spots, Mona Lisa’s is a haven for gluten-free diners who don’t want to compromise on flavor. Many dishes can be made gluten-free upon request, including their pasta and entree selections.
Rice Palace: Rice Palace makes it easy to eat gluten-free without missing out on your favorite Asian-inspired dishes. Most items are made with rice noodles or steamed rice, and the staff are great about accommodating gluten sensitivities.
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Leona’s: Craving pizza but can’t do gluten? Leona’s has you covered with a delicious gluten-free crust option that doesn’t sacrifice texture or taste. You can build your own creation or choose from their signature pies loaded with fresh toppings.
The French Press: Known for being a go-to for gluten-free breakfast and lunch lovers, The French Press has a menu full of clearly marked gluten-free options.
Foster’s Fireside: Just north of Osseo, Foster’s Fireside is a cozy, locally-owned spot where scratch-made, wood-fired dishes take center stage. Many menu items can be made gluten-free, including their artisan pizzas with a GF crust option, fresh salads, and hearty wraps.
The Informalist
Located inside The Lismore Hotel, The Informalist offers a menu of options that includes gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan platings. The restaurant's chef-inspired dishes highlight their scratch-made components as well as their ethically - and when possible - locally sourced ingredients. The menus cover a full range of offerings from weekend brunch to wood stone pizza, a full dinner menu, and a late night menu serving until late in the evening. A wide selection of bottled wine, beer, spirits, zero-proofs, and hand-crafted cocktail offerings complements the meal. The ambiance is enhanced by an open-concept kitchen, stunning marble-topped tables, and design highlights like the Penny Bar. In the warmer months, a partially-covered patio nestled along Barstow Street in the heart of Downtown Eau Claire is accessible.
The Informalist also offers weekly specials:
- SUNDAY-MONDAY PIZZA & A BOTTLE: A deal for two that includes side salads, a pizza of your choice, and a bottle of wine from their select offerings, priced at $60.
- TUESDAY CHEF-INSPIRED SANDWICH
- OF THE WEEK: Every Wednesday they debut their newest 'za special and add on a tap beer for only $1 when ordering the 'za special.
Tiffany G. said, “The pizza I ordered was amazing, also had a seasonal hot toddy that was life changing delicious. Have been here several times never disappoints."
Thaddeus S. said "BEST FOOD IN 100 MILES! From the pizza to the salmon - everything was delicious! Waiter was equally as great!"
Angela P. said “Delicious food and great service! The shrimp and grits brunch special was super flavorful! Eau Claire's Heavyweight Champion of Food."