For those embracing a plant-based lifestyle or seeking healthier, allergy-friendly dining options, discovering restaurants that align with these values is essential. This guide explores various cities, spotlighting establishments that cater to whole food, plant-based diets, ensuring accessibility and support for the plant-based movement.
Boulder, Colorado: A Haven for Healthy Mindsets
Boulder is known as the mecca for green juice, hiking, farmers markets, secondhand stores and an overall healthy mindset for the most part within the community.
Leaf (VEG)
Located at 1710 Pearl St., Leaf is a go-to spot when visiting Boulder and a must when traveling vegan, vegetarian or with specific diets like Gluten Free. The space itself has great energy with live plants as accents and a super friendly staff to match. They have a full bar and options that will satisfy everyone in your group, vegan or not. Their chefs work directly with their own farm / farmer to get the freshest, and most in season organic produce to insure that what you’re eating not only tastes great, but it’s good for you and the earth too.
What to order: The Crab Cake Sandwich, The French Dip, The Crispy Calamari, The Tofu Nori Bowl and The Breakfast Rancheros.
Tips when ordering: This spot is not 100% vegan or GF so make sure to specify your allergies to your server and they will accommodate you!
Read also: Satisfy Your Cravings with Whole Foods
Thrive
If you were to imagine the ultimate “Boulderite”, colorful, full vegan restaurant, this place is IT! It has all the healthy and relaxed vibes inside with a full organic, gluten free AND soy free menu. It’s the perfect place for high vibe, nutrient dense food that will make you feel so good after. They even write little notes in the menu about how certain ingredients will benefit you so you can get exactly what you need in that moment. The staff is super down to earth and it’s probably the healthiest drive through in the US! They use a lot of raw cuisine techniques that I love like the nacho crispy dehydrated kale chips and using nori as a wrap! It’s the ultimate lunch after a hike or to grab for a picnic at the seat of the mountains or a healthy breakfast on the go.
What to order: The Nori Wrap, The Kale Chips, The Coconut Wrap, Strawberry Coconut Cacao Cheesecake and The Natural High Smoothie.
Tips when ordering: When getting the wraps, make sure to eat them ASAP as they will get soggy if you let them sit too long.
Bumbling Bee Vegan Junk Food Bar (V)
Located at 1100 28th St., this spot is perfect if you’re looking for a greasy burger, the ultimate hangover cure or just some cruelty free junk food. Their mission is to clearly show anyone, from any walk of life that vegan food can in-fact be good, and seriously drool worthy. The place it’s located is actually where this old late night sandwich shop was located which I always used to hit on those nights I had one too many when I was visiting in my college years. I am so happy this has replaced the sandwich spot and is a vegan spot for college students to grub down on instead!
Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse (VO)
Located at 1770 13th St., The Teahouse is an absolute must when visiting Boulder for a few reasons. The building and art was given to the city of Boulder form Dushanbe, Tajikistan which is a symbol for global friendship and cultural exchange. The entirety of the building is hand painted, and is touched with hand carved columns, stools and panels. This teahouse, is called a teahouse for a reason as they have an incredibly vast selection of global Tea’s to choose from. They steep it for you when ordering so its fresh and perfect upon arrival. To be honest, I almost have an impossible time choosing a tea because there are so many epic choices. If you’re not a tea person, don’t worry as they also have a full bar. Their food is as cultured as their tea and interior as they have an epic selection of Indian Curry, Thai dishes, North African Cuisine, Mediterranean food, Persian dishes, and even a Cuban Sandwich (not vegan).
Read also: Whole Foods Breakfast Options
What to order: Korean Pan Fried Noodles with Tofu, North African Crispy Cauliflower, Char Sui Fried Rice with no egg and tofu, Mediterranean Salad with No Feta, Thai Noodle Salad with Tofu.
Tips when Ordering: You absolutely have to order their house Chai with Oatmilk - it’s divine. I would skip this spot for Brunch as their vegan options are limited for Brunch.
Flower Child
This fast-casual restaurant is a spot where everyone in the family can get something they love that is relatively healthy. They have meat, vegetarian and vegan options making it the perfect lunch spot for a family with all different eating preferences. The space itself is bright, clean and has a vibey interior and covered patio. The vegan and veggie options are clearly marked on the menu, and even though there are only a couple, it is absolutely worth the visit. A good portion of their food is organic and the dishes themselves are so tasty with the flavors really hitting the spot. It’s clear they put in a lot of thought to the sauces and details to even the side dishes. They’re centrally located making it a great spot for dine in or take out for a picnic or quick lunch.
What to order: The Entree with tofu, chili glazed sweet potatoes and yuzu Brussel Sprouts, Mother Earth Bowl
Tips when ordering: This would not be my recommended spot if you’re soy-free and vegan. Their only “protein” plant based option is tofu.
Read also: Plant-Based Diet Guide
Wonderpress (VO)
Located at 946 Pearl St, Boulder, CO 80302. If you’re looking for an epic little cafe that’s elevated to the latest food + bev trends, this is the spot. Wonderpress has menu items that make you craving more and thinking about that thing that you wished you ordered. They’ve got a whole array of avocado toasts, fresh pressed juices, broths, cafe drinks with superfoods, and even ceremonial matcha which you all know I’m a sucker for. They have clearly marked vegan options and have been super flexible with me on making an item vegan that isn’t listed as such!
Gelato Boy
Gelato Boy is an epic little gelato spot with dairy free options that are definitely drool worthy. We grabbed a few cones (vegan and GF options for cones!) and ate our ice cream as we walked around pearl and it was the perfect afternoon treat.
Denver, Colorado: A Growing Plant-Based Scene
Denver on the other hand had more places than we could visit on our trip so rest assured that this guide will continue to grow as we visit more!
City O City (VEG)
Located at 206 E 13th Ave. We were super excited to find this place as it’s not only got incredible food, but it has that very classic Denver dive punk rock energy to it that I love! Imagine a dive bar meets vegan food and you’ve got City O City. They’ve got a full bar with delish cocktails + mocktails + coffee and something incredible for all different kinds of eaters to enjoy. The pizza rolls were insanely good and don’t even get me started in the”chicken” and waffles. So. Damn. Good. They serve breakfast - dinner and beyond and to be honest I can’t believe I didn’t know about this place until now!
What to order: The Chicken and Waffles With Carrot Bacon, The Caesar Salad, The Crispy Tacos, and The Pizza Rolls.
Tips when ordering: Keep in mind that they include 20% gratuity for all checks and pool throughout the whole house.
Beet Box
This tiny little bakery I swear was sent from heaven. They are 100% vegan and offer gluten free options for a majority of their baked goods! They’ve got breads, cookies, cupcakes, and cakes. We walked over after having lunch at City O City and were pleasantly surprised to find this tiny little bakery next door. The staff here was incredibly sweet and clearly had a lot of passion for their work which is always a quality I look for when tasting new treats!
Nooch Vegan Market (V)
Located at 10 E. Ellsworth Ave. We stumbled upon this vegan market and I am so so glad that we did! It’s small and quaint but has everything you need when it comes to specialty vegan items. They’ve got everything from vegan dog food/treats, to cheese, to sausages, dairy-free milks, vegan jerky, granola bars, stickers and merch. This place is stocked with all the things you wish you had at your local grocery store.
What to order: The pierogis in the frozen section from The Pierogi Factory were so freaking amazing! Non Alcoholic beer choices!
Blue Sushi (VO)
Located at 1616 16th St. Blue Sushi was recommended to us by the guys at Nooch and I’m so glad we stumbled on this place! It’s not a strictly vegan place but it has an entire different section for vegan rolls and nigiri which all were fantastic. They really paid attention to the plant based offerings here so it made you feel like they actually want you to have a culinary experience instead of just slapping an avocado roll on the menu - I mean, we’ve all been there. They have an excellent sake selection and a vegan caviar that will blow your mind. I would highly recommend this place when going out with a group as there is something for everyone!
What to order: Grilled Sea Salt Edamame (this was shockingly incredible), miso soup, and almost every single plant based roll.
Las Vegas, Nevada: A Rising Hotspot for Plant-Based Dining
Las Vegas isn't just about the glitz, glamour or casinos - it's a rising hotspot for plant-based dining. Whether you're on the Strip or exploring the Art district you'll find a diverse array of vegan restaurants in Las Vegas, from upscale dining at Crossroads to casual eats at Tacotarian, and even late-night diner eats.
Makers & Finders
Makers & Finders, we've been there quite a few times now and this latin comfort food based restaurant offering vegan, gluten free and vegetarian options hasn't disappointed. Enjoy a delicious breakfast or lunch along with coffee, tea, and smoothies. Dine in and takeout. The have several vegan offerings on the menu like their vegan hash skillet. They also carry Just Egg products for the plant-based eaters.
What to order: Impossible Sando with your choice of Vegan Croissant or Sourdough, Folded Just "Egg", Impossible Sausage, Spiced Tomato Jam & Harissa Aioli.
Truth & Tonic
Truth & Tonic is a wellness cafe right on the Vegas Strip at The Venetian. Open everyday from 7 to 2pm. Note: Reservations required. If your not staying at the hotel like us just ask a guard to buzz you up to the fourth floor.
Siegel's
Siegel's is a modern-day delicatessen and bakery. They have all the classic's you expect. Luckily; for us the bagels are mostly vegan friendly, if made the traditional way with flour, water, salt and yeast but always double check.
Tacotarian (V/GF)
Address: 1130 S. Tacotarian is plant-based Mexican food in Downtown Las Vegas. We were just here this year and had dinner with a brunch of vegan friends. The variety of offerings had everyone excited to try the entire vegan menu. They offer tacos, burritos, quesadillas and more! All plant-based dishes made with fresh ingredients.
Veggieat
Veggieat is an Asian fusion restaurant offering 100% only vegan options. This spot is perfect for any vegan foodie looking for only plant-based options.
All Mushroom Menu
This fully vegan restaurant has an exclusive all mushroom menu. You get to see just how versatile mushrooms can really be.
What to order: Lion's Mane Chicken Sandwich with a delicious sriracha aioli sauce.
Evel Pie
If you're craving a classic old-school pizzeria vibe with a fun twist, Evel Pie is the place to be. Decked out in Evel Knievel memorabilia, this spot serves up a few delicious vegan options, including cheesy option, pepperoni and spicy meatballs. Plus, with late-night hours open til 2am, its a great spot to grab a late night bite.
Crossroads
We have been to Crossroads Los Angeles, the now closed Calabasas location and of course Vegas. Chef Tal Ronnen never disappoints. The menu options are incredible. Every dish better than the next.
The Modern Vegan (V)
Address: 700 E Naples Dr. If you're looking for a wide variety of dining option, good service and delicious food, this spot is worth checking out. From hearty breakfast plates to satisfying lunch and dinner selections like vegan Alfredo pasta, they offer something for everyone - including indulgent vegan milkshakes that are a must try.
What to order: What Happens In Vegas with tofu scramble, breakfast potatoes, asparagus, sourdough and vegan bacon and sausage.
Gordon Ramsey Hell's Kitchen
I think we are all familiar with celebrity chef Gordon Ramsey. He has several restaurants on the strip. Some would say Hell's Kitchen being the most famous of those fine dining establishment.
What to order: Unfortunately, this was a very disappointing experience especially for the cost. Both options were pretty much tasteless. I like that more restaurants are becoming vegan friendly but I don't appreciate when the attempt feels half-hearted. Tofu is a cheap vegan protein and is easy to flavor. The serving size didn't reflect the cost either and nothing was used to give it any flavor.
Din Tai Fung
Din Tai Fung is the go to dining destination for steamed dumplings, buns and noodles. The Pan-Asian cuisine offers something for everyone including meat eaters, vegetarians and they also offer a selection of vegan items. There are only a few gluten-free items.
What to order: Wood Ear mushrooms in a vinegar dressing.
Pink Box Doughnuts (VF)
Address: 9435 W. Tropicana Ave, near Fort Apache Road location. Pink Box Doughnuts is open 24 hours on Friday & Saturday for the late night folks in sin city. The shop opens at 5am and the donuts do sell out, so be sure to get there early!
What to order: We tried them all lol - the favors are Chocoholic, Veegee - a carrot cake doughnut, Da vegan cherry fritter, Chocolate vegan buttercream, Pink lemonade, Raspberry lemonade cake.
Flower Child (VF)
Address: 1007 S. Rampart Blvd. Las Vegas NV 89145.Flower Child offers a made from scratch menu that serves everyone from vegan, vegetarian, keto, paleo to meat-eating and gluten-free eaters. With a customizable menu of bowl, wraps, salads and a variety of mix-and-match greens, grains and proteins. We visit the Atlanta Flower Child locations offer.
Chef Kenny's Asian Vegan Restaurant (V)
Address: 6820 Spring Mountain Road.This restaurant specializes in Chinese dishes and the menu is everything from noodles, soups and specialty dishes like General Tso or Spicy Beef. All made with mock meats.
Ronald's Donuts (VF)
Address: 4600 Spring Mountain Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89102.Vegan and Gluten FreeRonald's Donuts offers two rows of vegan donuts and PETA regularly ranks it as one of the top donut shops in the nation.
NoButcher (V)
100% Plant-based Restaurant Address: 3565 S
Catch Restaurant
Address: At Aria hotel 3730 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas.Catch is one of Vegas's most Instagrammable hot spots. This restaurant is not vegan. It's a seafood restaurant. But they have a fabulous vegan cheesecake option.
Blackout Dining in the Dark (V)
Address: 871 S. Try a seven-course tasting menu, eaten in complete darkness. The dining room has been specially designed to eliminate all outside light sources. Guests are asked to turn off their cell phones and leave them in the secure lockers.The pre-fixed menu is a mystery menu for guests to enjoy and changes seasonally. Upon arrival, hosts take your allergy information before you enter the dining room. If you prefer, you can see the menu at the time of your reservation before you enter the dark dining room.