Once a hub for the iron and steel industry today, Chicago is a burgeoning metropolis that boasts a diverse population. With such diversity come different cuisines that further add to the popularity of this windy city.
A Midwestern place, the popular attraction possesses several eateries that invariably cater to the varied palate needs. And trust us, if you’re a vegan, you’re sorted all the more as there exist several luscious vegan restaurants in Chicago that can make a plant-based diet lover as you fall in love with this town.
With delectable culinary delight, the city offers cuisines that have traversed borders, periods, and eras from across the globe. So, if you’re up for some sumptuous vegan options, look no further and check out our list of top restaurants in Chicago that can satisfy your hunger pangs.
But before that, let us plunge deeper and see more about this stunning city and veganism in its entirety!
Is Chicago a Vegan-Friendly Place?
Chicago is indeed a vegan-friendly place with plant-based restaurants mushrooming across the city. With its diverse dining options today, no matter what variant of food one looks for, gluten, soy, dairy-free, or keto-friendly options, all get assembled under one roof in this Lake Michigan-situated city.
The place even holds Chicago’s biggest food festival, known as Vegandale, which brings different types of plant-based food to the tables for people with different palates but specifically for vegans. With a welcoming atmosphere, the fest will spoil you for choices, making you come back time and again to revel in its ever-sumptuous vegan delights.
Well, for now, let’s get going and check out the best vegan eateries in Chicago right away!
List of Best Authentic Vegan Restaurants in Chicago
The city has no dearth of plant-based restaurants that can cater to your taste buds instantly.
Well, here is an overview of the most popular vegan restaurants in Chicago:-
- Chicago Diner
- Handlebar
- Kale My Name
- Veggie House
- Majani Soulful Vegan Cuisine
- Herbivore
- Don Bucio’s Taqueria
- Amitabul
- Alice & Friends Vegan Kitchen
- Native Foods
- Planta Queen
- Plant Junkie
- Soul Veg City
1. The Chicago Diner, Lakeview
Amongst Chicago vegan restaurants, The Chicago Diner is a renowned name that is popular far and wide. With a vast array of comfort food and decadent options, the outlet has been ”meat-free” since 1983. With its expansive menu, the restaurant has made sure that there is something for every visitor. Presented at Lakeview with a much younger outlet opening in Logan, the eatery is worth visiting.
Once here, try their burgers and sandwiches, including salads. You can even have gluten-free items such as GF Greek Salad, GF the Soul Bowl, and GF Thai Basil Stir Fry. Also, do not miss out on their beverages and shakes.
Note: The outlet also has vegetarian cuisine to offer. As such, ensure that the item ordered by you is completely vegan before starting your meal.
Best For (What to Order): Radical Reuben, Reuben Rolls, Cinnamon Roll, GF Chilaquiles, Soup of the Day, All American Burger, Lavender Lemonade Craft Soda, Decaff Coffee- Columbia St. Roastery, Seasonal Cheesecake
Address: 3411 N. Halsted St. Chicago, IL 60657
Location: Open in Google Maps
Contact No: (773) 935-6696
Open Hours: Monday to Friday (11 am–10 pm), Sat-Sun (10 am–10 pm)
Food Categories Served: Vegan American Food, Vegetarian Cuisines
Service Options: Dine-in, Pick-Up, Delivery
Approx. Cost for 2 People: $$
What People Love Most About This Restaurant: People love the quality of the cuisines offered at the Chicago Diner. Radical Reuben is one of the dishes that is liked and ordered the most. The service of the restaurant is good too, which attracts customers more.
Average Reviews: 4.5/5
Available on Other websites: toasttab.com
Instagram Profile
Official Website: The Chicago Diner
2. Handlebar, W North Ave
One of the best vegan restaurants in downtown Chicago is none other than Handlebar. A much-loved and sought-after outlet, this option can meet all your needs in a go. Offering meat-free fare, the restaurant has a wide array of vegan cuisine that can knock you off your senses. Made from scratch, this stunningly attractive eatery has everything that will make you fall in love with it.
They have a lot to offer from their appetizer section and you can lay your hands on almost any dish ranging from their Nachos to Chips and guacamole listed on the menu. You can also go for their Black Bean Maduro, Vegan Chilli Mac Attack, Sloppy Joe, Fried Plantains, and Bowl of Chili.
Note: The restaurant even offers vegetarian cuisine. Hence, before ordering any item, make sure that they are devoid of animal-based ingredients.
Best For (What to Order): Fried Pickles, Sloppy Joe, Fried Avocado Tacos, Grilled Cheese, Freshly Cut French Fries, Smoked Gouda Mac, Handlebar Fried Pies
Address: 2311 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
Location: Open in Google Maps
Contact No: (773) 384-9546
Open Hours: Monday to Friday (10 am- 12 am), Saturday and Sunday (9 am- 12 am)
Food Categories Served: Vegan and Vegetarian Comfort Food
Service Options: Dine-in, Takeout, Delivery
Approx. Cost for 2 People: $$
What People Love Most About This Restaurant: People like the service of the outlet apart from the classic comfort food. They also love the appetizer section of the restaurant’s menu.
Average Reviews: 4.6/5
Available on Other websites: chownow.com
Instagram Profile
Official Website: Handlebar
3. Kale My Name, W Montrose Ave
A vegan Chicago eatery, Kale My Name is a completely plant-based restaurant that needs no introduction. With a creative menu, the outlet offers numerous vegan cuisines that are hard to resist. From appetizers and brunch dishes to main items, their options are worth every ounce of yours.
While here, you can enjoy their Buffalo Tofu Wrap, Lentil Soup, and Cauliflower Wings. You can also enjoy their brunch options, such as Breakfast Burrito, Chocolate Toast, Sweet Waffles, and Tofu Scramble Plate. You can round off your experience with their exotic cocktails or mocktails.
Best For (What to Order): Ajvar and Pita Bread, Three Empanadas, Cheddar Broccoli, Caesar Salad, Neiman Salad, Jackfruit Wrap
Address: 3300 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
Location: Open in Google Maps
Contact No: (872) 208-7125
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday (11 am- 10 pm)
Food Categories Served: Vegan American, Thai, International, and Mediterranean Cuisines
Service Options: Dine-in, Takeout, No-contact delivery
Approx. Cost for 2 People: $$
What People Love Most About This Restaurant: People love the ambiance of the outlet apart from the luscious food that is served. The service of the staff and their behavior is further liked by customers.
Average Reviews: 4.5/5
Available on Other websites: toasttab.com, ubeareats.com
Instagram Profile
Official Website: Kale My Name
4. Veggie House, S China Pl
When looking for sumptuous vegan food in Chicago, Veggie House can be your best bet. With its plant-based offering, the eatery has created a fan base of its own. Here, you’re sure to fall in love with their extensive menu that caters to every vegan palate.
Some of the dishes you can order here include Veggie House Dumplings, Wonton Soup, Mapo Tofu, House Mixed Vegetables, and Wok Fried String Beans. Also, go to their dessert section and order Banana Tempura and Sesame Rice Ball to add to your experience.
Note: The restaurant even offers vegetarian dishes. Hence, be careful when you order anything, and make sure that the cuisines are completely plant-based.
Best For (What to Order): Spicy Dumplings, Kung Pao Tofu, Mongolian Soy Beef, Orange Tofu
Address: 2109 S China Pl, Chicago, IL 60616
Location: Open in Google Maps
Contact No: (312) 326-9966
Open Hours: Sunday to Friday (11:30 am- 9 pm), Saturday (11:30 am- 10 pm)
Food Categories Served: Vegan and Vegetarian Chinese Dish
Service Options: Dine-in, Takeout, Delivery
Approx. Cost for 2 People: $$
What People Love Most About This Restaurant: People love the service of the outlet. The food is liked too. Visitors also appreciate the ambiance of the restaurant which adds to its popularity.
Average Reviews: 4.6/5
Available on Other websites: grubhub.com, ubereats.com
Instagram Profile
Official Website: Veggie House
5. Majani Soulful Vegan Cuisine, S Exchange Ave
When looking for the best vegan food in Chicago, Majani Soulful Vegan Cuisine can make your day. Located on the South Shore, this delightful place possesses all the nuances of being a top-rated restaurant. Be it lunch or dinner, this offbeat eatery is sure to meet your expectations with its culinary skills.
You can revel in the taste of their Falafel Burgers, Fried Grits, Jerk Tofu, Mac & Cheese, Greens, Candied Sweet Potatoes Bowl, and Lentil Mushroom Burger. Also, order their Double Chocolate Cupcake and Lemon Cupcake for an enhanced experience.
Best For (What to Order): BBQ Cauliflower, Oyster Mushroom Taco, Fried Okra, Beans and Rice Soul Bowl, Black Eye Pea Burger
Address: 7167 S Exchange Ave, Chicago, IL 60649
Location: Open in Google Maps
Contact No: (773) 359-4019
Open Hours: Sunday and Monday (Closed), Tuesday to Saturday (11 am- 8 pm)
Food Categories Served: Vegan Food
Service Options: Dine-in, Takeout, No-contact delivery
Approx. Cost for 2 People: $$
What People Love Most About This Restaurant: People like the pleasant atmosphere of the outlet. The food is loved too apart from the quick service that Majani offers to each of its customers.
Average Reviews: 4.6/5
Available on Other websites: None
Instagram Profile
Official Website: Majani Soulful
6. Herbivore, W 31st St, Chicago
One of the top vegan restaurants in Chicago is Herbivore. A casual plant-based outlet, this place has everything in it that will make you fall head over heels in love with it. With plant-based offerings, this restaurant can add to your occasion and make it worthwhile every time you head in its direction.
Suggested Read => Vegan Restaurants in NYC
Once there, order their Chopped Chimi, Chopped Cheese, Chili Crisp Fries, and Chicky Nuggies. You can also go for Fried Chik Alfredo and Potato Skins which are extremely sumptuous.
Best For (What to Order): The Big Max, Fried Oreos, Cheezy Gordita Crunch, Pizza Puff
Address: 964 W 31st St, Chicago, IL 60608
Location: Open in Google Maps
Contact No: (773) 801-0486
Open Hours: Sunday and Monday (Closed), Wednesday to Saturday (5-9 pm)
Food Categories Served: Vegan Food
Service Options: Dine-in, Takeout, No delivery
Approx. Cost for 2 People: $$
What People Love Most About This Restaurant: People love that the eatery offers the best vegan items in a moderate price range. They like the service and delectable offerings of the Herbivore.
Average Reviews: 4.8/5
Available on Other websites: None
Instagram Profile
Official Website: Herbivore
7. Don Bucio’s Taqueria, N Milwaukee Ave
When looking for warm and cozy restaurants near Chicago, IL, visit Don Bucio’s Taqueria, which offers plant-based Mexican cuisine. A delightful place, it is primarily known for its tacos, apart from other luscious vegan dishes. With flavorful offerings that are completely plant-based, this eatery has indubitably made its place amongst vegans.
You can try their various vegan options, such as Trompo Al Pastor, Chips and Guacamole, DBT Fries, and Ceviche. You can also explore their party food options if you’re there for some fun and frolic.
Best For (What to Order): Tacos, Salsa & Chips, Burrito, Guacamole Rojo, and Rice and Beans
Address: 2763 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
Location: Open in Google Maps
Contact No: (773) 770-9239
Open Hours: Wednesday (Closed), Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday (5- 10 pm), Friday (5-11 pm), Saturday (11:30 am- 11 pm), Sunday (11:30 am- 9 pm)
Food Categories Served: Vegan Mexican Food
Service Options: Dine-in, Takeout, No-contact delivery
Approx. Cost for 2 People: $
What People Love Most About This Restaurant: People love the ambiance of the eatery. Many like their Guacamole and taco offerings. The service of the outlet is liked too by all.
Average Reviews: 4.9/5
Available on Other websites: grubhub.com
Instagram Profile
Official Website: Don Bucio’s Taqueria
8. Amitabul, N Milwaukee Ave
One of the upscale vegan restaurants in Chicago, Amitabul catches eyeballs with its exotic vegan cuisine. With an organic Korean menu, this modest eatery offers nourishing dishes that are simply mind-boggling. With a diverse array of plant-based items, Amitabul has won the hearts of vegans and non-vegans alike.
Here, you can order their Cold Buckwheat Noodle, Dark Side of the Moon, Green and Greener Nirvana, and even Amitabul Original Pancakes. You can also go for their Energy Maki Roll, Seaweed Veggie Salad, and Maha Pyogo.
Best For (What to Order): Mandoo Vegan Dumpling, Tofu Miso Soup, Spicy Kimchi Bi Bim Bop, Grilled Curry Tofu Stir
Address: 6207 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60646
Location: Open in Google Maps
Contact No: (773) 774-0276
Open Hours: Monday and Tuesday (Closed), Wednesday to Sunday (12-3 pm, 4-9 pm)
Food Categories Served: Korean Vegan Cuisine
Service Options: Dine-in, Curbside pickup, No-contact delivery
Approx. Cost for 2 People: $$
What People Love Most About This Restaurant: Visitors love the service of the eatery apart from the healthy vegan Korean food. People also like that the prices are relatively cheaper compared to the portions offered.
Average Reviews: 4.8/5
Available on Other websites: grubhub.com, ubereats.com
Instagram Profile
Official Website: Amitabul
9. Alice & Friends’ Vegan Kitchen, N Broadway
One of the best restaurants with vegan options in Chicago that you can go for is Alice & Friends’ Vegan Kitchen. The best part about this eatery is that it also offers nut and soy-free vegan dishes. A stunning restaurant with an amazing seasonal menu, it has a lot to offer to every visitor per their taste and preferences.
Here you can order Wonton Soup, Musubi, Steamed Broccoli, Satay Skewers, and Crispy Spring Rolls. You can also go for their Fruit Smoothie, Green Tea Cheesecake, and Carrot Cake.
Best For (What to Order): Dol Sot Bi Bim Bap, Roasted Sesame Miso Ramen, Grace’s Teriyaki, Golden Breeze, Dumplings, Quinoa, Sweet Potato Fries, Corn Bread
Address: 5812 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60660
Location: Open in Google Maps
Contact No: (773) 275-8797
Open Hours: Tuesday (Closed), Monday, Wednesday to Friday (4- 9:30 pm), Saturday and Sunday (12- 9:30 pm)
Food Categories Served: Vegan American, Asian, and Chinese Food
Service Options: Dine-in, Takeout, No-contact delivery
Approx. Cost for 2 People: $
What People Love Most About This Restaurant: People love the pleasant atmosphere of the eatery. The food is liked too apart from the service offered at the outlet.
Average Reviews: 4.8/5
Available on Other websites: toasttab.com
Instagram Profile
Official Website: Alice & Friends’ Vegan Kitchen
10. Native Foods, W Belmont Ave (Lakeview)
Amongst vegan restaurants in Chicago, Native Foods can surely fill your needs. From appetizers and chef’s specials to Entree salads, the popular outlet has everything for anyone who’s up for some sumptuous plant-based cuisine. The eatery even has a separate menu for kids under 10 years old. There is also a provision to inform the restaurant about allergy concerns (if any) and get cuisines customized, likewise.
You can order some of their luscious dishes such as New: Chicken Parm Sandwich (plant-based), Nachos, and New: Potato Kale Soup. You can also go for their sweet treats, such as Peanut Butter Parfait and beignets.
Best For (What to Order): Peach Burrata Salad, Poppin’ Jalapeno Burger, Double Cheeseburger, Seasoned Fries, Key Lime Cheesecake Parfait
Address: 1023 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
Location: Open in Google Maps
Contact No: (773) 549-4904
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday (11 am- 9 pm)
Food Categories Served: Vegan Food
Service Options: Dine-in, Curbside pickup, No-contact delivery
Approx. Cost for 2 People: $$
What People Love Most About This Restaurant: People love that the outlet is reasonably priced and offers the best services. Customers also like the variety of cuisines provided.
Average Reviews: 4.5/5
Available on Other websites: Olo.com
Instagram Profile
Official Website: Native Foods
11. Planta Queen, N Clark St
Amongst the best vegan restaurants in Chicago that have been loved by all is Planta Queen. This Asian-fusion outlet also has a presence in other top places like Atlanta, Los Angeles, Florida, New York, and Toronto, DC+ Bethesda, which invariably shows its popularity amongst people. Being one of the swankiest plant-based restaurants, the vegan spot offers a stunning ambiance to all visitors.
Some of the dishes to try here include Thai Lettuce Wraps, Crispy Rice, Bang Bang Broccoli, Japanese Sweet Potato, and Summer Rolls. Also, check out their Vietnamese Iced Coffee, Loose Leaf Tea, and Specialty Lattes to enjoy all the more.
Best For (What to Order): Sushi, Cold Soba Noodles, Bang Bang Broccoli, Ceviche, Pad Thai Slaw, Japanese Sweet Potato, Vietnamese Iced Coffee
Address: 413 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654
Location: Open in Google Maps
Contact No: (630) 691-7238
Open Hours: Monday to Thursday (11:30 am- 10 pm), Friday (11:30 am- 11 pm), Saturday (11 am- 11 pm), Sunday (11 am- 10 pm)
Food Categories Served: Vegan Food
Service Options: Dine-in, Takeout, Delivery
Approx. Cost for 2 People: $$
What People Love Most About This Restaurant: People love the ambiance of the eatery along with their unique drink offerings and vegan food items. The service of the restaurant is liked too by customers.
Average Reviews: 4.5/5
Available on Other websites: ubereats.com, DoorDash, grubhub.com
Instagram Profile
Official Website: Planta Queen
12. Plant Junkie, W Washington St
Serving delectable vegan food in Chicago, Plant Junkie is a renowned name across the city. With numerous plant-based offerings, this outlet has garnered immense attention over time. A great spot for non-meat eaters, the restaurant has an abundance of sumptuous vegan cuisines that are hard to resist and harder to overlook.
Here, you can order their delicious Urban Junkie, The Tree Hugger, The Gangster, and Po Boy Swag. You can also have their Golden Tater Tots, Coconut Kale, and Chicken Pea Curry.
Best For (What to Order): Bangkok Curry Bowl, Yucatan Mayan Bowl, Moroccan Mirage Bowl, Sri Lankan Buddha Bowl, American Low Country Bowl, Roma Bowl
Address: 15 W Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602
Location: Open in Google Maps
Contact No: (646) 233-0111
Open Hours: Saturday and Sunday (Closed), Monday to Friday (11 am- 6 pm)
Food Categories Served: Vegan American and International Fast Food
Service Options: Dine-in, Takeout, No-contact delivery
Approx. Cost for 2 People: $$
What People Love Most About This Restaurant: People love that the eatery offers a variety of sumptuous vegan food. They like the pleasant atmosphere and quick service of the outlet.
Average Reviews: 4.8/5
Available on Other websites: DoorDash, ubereats.com, Caviar, Postmates, grubhub.com, Seamless, Ritual
Instagram Profile
Official Website: Plant Junkie
13. Soul Veg City, E 75th St
A vegan Chicago restaurant, Soul Veg City is a family-owned and operated outlet that has captured people’s attention in and around the Chatham area. A delightful place with attractive decor, Soul Veg City has a subtle charm and aura of its own.
In the restaurant, you can order various plant-based items, such as Soup of the Day, and Crispy Caesar Salad. You can also revel in the lusciousness of their dessert section, which includes a wide array of toothsome options, like cakes and pies.
Note: The restaurant even has vegetarian food items. Hence, ensure that your ordered cuisine is completely vegan.
Best For (What to Order): Zesty Cauliflower Wings, Jerk Nachos, Garden Salad
Address: 203 E 75th St, Chicago, IL 60619
Location: Open in Google Maps
Contact No: (773) 224-0104
Open Hours: Monday to Friday (11 am- 6 pm), Saturday and Sunday (10 am- 6 pm)
Food Categories Served: Vegan and Vegetarian Food
Service Options: Dine-in, Takeout, Delivery
Approx. Cost for 2 People: $$
What People Love Most About This Restaurant: People greatly love the vegan food options and the service of the staff. The interiors and decor are liked too by customers.
Average Reviews: 4.4/5
Available on Other websites: grubhub.com
Instagram Profile
Official Website: Soul Veg City
Well, these are some of the top vegan restaurants in Chicago that are sure to win your heart and meet your palate’s needs. You can also roam around and check some other local plant-based outlets, but on the first go, trying the above-mentioned restaurants is a must.
How We Chose The Top Restaurants?
Since Chicago had a huge number of vegan outlets, there were certain factors that we took into consideration before choosing the popular restaurants. These included the food options, quality of the items offered, price range, and reviews given by several customers. After considering all these aspects, we came up with the top-rated and most loved restaurants for you. However, personal preferences may vary, depending upon tastes and likings.
Read more => Best Vegan & Vegetarian Restaurants in Las Vegas
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Chicago vegan-friendly?
Yes, Chicago is a vegan-friendly place that has garnered the attention of vegans from across the globe. With its innumerable plant-based offerings, the city has gained and retained the love of plant-based diet lovers from different walks of life.
What are the top vegan restaurants in Chicago?
There exist several vegan restaurants in Chicago, but out of them the top-rated ones are as follows:-
1. Chicago Diner
2. Handlebar
3. Kale My Name
4. Veggie House
5. Majani Soulful Vegan Cuisine
Are there vegetarian restaurants in Chicago apart from vegan outlets?
Yes, various restaurants in Chicago serve both vegan and vegetarian cuisines. Some of the top-rated outlets are as follows:-
1. Chicago Diner
2. Handlebar
3. Veggie House
4. Soul Veg City
What is Vegandale Festival in Chicago?
Vegandale Festival is the biggest vegan food fest in Chicago that is celebrated with full vigor and enthusiasm. It also includes music, art, and more that lures both vegans and non-vegans alike.
Are vegan restaurants expensive in Chicago?
There exist various vegan restaurants in Chicago and maximum have a moderate price range. Although some upscale outlets do have a pricey menu, it all depends on your preferences at the end and what factors you consider before going to any eatery. Overall, most of the outlets are pretty affordable.
Which city is referred to as the vegan capital of the world?
Berlin is referred to as the vegan capital of the world. This is because the place not only possesses a large number of vegan restaurants but also boasts several outlets that provide plant-based options to all.
Is veganism growing across the globe?
Yes, veganism is growing across the globe. This is because people are becoming more aware of animal cruelty that happens every day, while others are getting concerned about the environmental impacts of the same, thus avoiding animal-derived products.
Also Read => Top Vegan Restaurants in Houston, Texas
Takeaway (Final Thoughts)
Today, Chicago is a thriving city that has become every vegan’s first choice by offering several plant-based cuisines. No matter what culinary demands one has, the place leaves no stone unturned to live up to the expectations of every visitor. From vegan deep-dish pizza to Chicago-style Tofu sandwiches, every cuisine has a mark of plant-based undertones that are simply contagious.
So, the next time you wish to have a delectable plant-based delight, look no further and visit the mentioned vegan restaurants in Chicago for a happening stay!
Also, let us know which restaurant you visited and what dishes you liked the most in our comment section below!
