Tyler McFarland on February 3, 2024
Updated on February 8, 2024 Reviewed and fact-checked Found a mistake? Let us know!
Navigating the culinary landscape of Chicago is like embarking on a treasure hunt, especially when you’re on the lookout for the best vegan spots in town.
You’ll find that the city, famous for its meat-centric classics, also harbors a thriving vegan scene that caters to every palate.
Chicago’s vegan restaurants offer a kaleidoscope of flavors, from the hearty and comforting to the exotic and adventurous. Each restaurant has its own unique story to tell — a story that’s waiting to enrich your culinary journey.
Let’s venture together into this vibrant world, where each meal promises to be more than just food on a plate.
Best Vegan and Vegetarian Restaurants in Chicago
1. Arya Bhavan
Image source: https://aryabhavan.com/
Arya Bhavan stands out as Chicago’s pioneering vegan Indian restaurant, captivating diners with its authentic North and South Indian dishes that skillfully omit the traditional use of ghee.
This vegetarian restaurant has redefined Indian cuisine by introducing a plant-based menu that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Arya Bhavan’s commitment to veganism extends beyond just removing animal products. They innovate with ingredients, ensuring that the essence of Indian cooking shines through in every bite.
Their dishes are prepared with:
- No Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO)
- No Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)
- No Artificial Flavors
- No Canned Food
- Low Sodium (Pure Himalayan salt)
- No Saturated Fat
- Purified Water
- Healthy Grains
- Very Little Oil (only Extra Virgin Olive Oil)
- No Refined Sugar
- Unbleached and Organic Flour
For those seeking a taste of innovation in the vegan restaurant scene, Arya Bhavan is a cornerstone, blending the rich tapestries of Indian cuisine with a modern, health-conscious approach.
Yelp score: 3.6/5
2. Amitabul
Image source: https://amitabulvegan.com/
Nestled in the heart of Norwood Park, Amitabul offers a serene escape with its vegan Korean cuisine. Here, steamy noodles and fresh vegetables come together to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Each dish at Amitabul is meticulously crafted, blending spices and ingredients in a way that elevates vegan cuisine to new heights.
The mastermind behind the project, Bill Choi, learned traditional Korean fermentation techniques from his mother and grandmother. He used those skills to create a vegan version of Bi Bim Bop while working at Jim’s Grill on Chicago’s north side.
Encouraged by the success of his vegan Bi Bim Bop, Bill made a bold move. The support and positive feedback have inspired him to open his own restaurant — Amitabul.
The restaurant specializes in what’s made him stand out: his signature blend of vegan food that marries the essence of Korean cuisine with the palates of Western diners.
The menu is a testament to the versatility and richness of vegan dishes. It proves that compassionate eating doesn’t compromise on taste or quality.
Yelp score: 4.4/5
3. Alice & Friends’ Vegan Kitchen
Image source: https://aliceandfriendsvegankitchen.com/
Offering a culinary journey through pan-Asian flavors, Alice & Friends’ Vegan Kitchen stands out in Chicago’s vibrant vegan dining scene with its inviting atmosphere and diverse menu.
Diners rave about their innovative use of vegan cheese, which adds a creamy, indulgent touch to their dishes.
Some of the standouts from the menu include:
- Dumplings: Indulge in homemade dumplings stuffed with a flavorful mix of ingredients. The filling includes protein-rich tofu, earthy shiitake mushrooms, and a colorful combination of veggies — carrots, broccoli, cabbage, zucchini, and onion. Choose to have them pan-fried for a delightful crunch or steamed if you prefer a softer texture.
- Wonton Soup: Warm up with a bowl of wonton soup, perfect for veggie lovers. As you dive into this comforting soup, you’ll find a medley of vegetables waiting to be enjoyed, from bright green broccoli florets to leafy bok choy and sliced carrots.
- Noble Burger: This burger is a delectable blend of oats, brown rice, onions, and TVP (textured vegetable protein), offering a hearty and satisfying bite.
- Tom Ka Noodles: This traditional noodle soup is steeped in a coconut broth that’s both savory and gently spiced. It’s seasoned with aromatic lemongrass, tangy lime juice, spicy galangal, and fragrant kaffir lime leaves to create a symphony of flavors.
It’s a must-visit for those seeking to indulge in conscious, compassionate eating.
- Alice & Friends’ Vegan Kitchen Website
- Alice & Friends’ Vegan Kitchen on Instagram
- Alice & Friends’ Vegan Kitchen on Facebook
- Alice & Friends’ Vegan Kitchen on Google Maps
Yelp score: 4.4/5
4. Kale My Name
Image source: https://www.kalemyname.com/
Kale My Name has quickly become a cornerstone among vegan restaurants in Chicago, offering a unique dining experience that caters to both vegan and vegetarian patrons. Their menu showcases the versatility of vegan food, with standout dishes that push the boundaries of traditional vegan cuisine.
Here are some of the accolates this restaurant has received:
- Winner of National Award for America’s “VEGAN RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR” by VegOut Magazine
- Winner of Best of Chicago Award for BEST VEGAN RESTAURANT by Chicago Reader
- Winner of BEST VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT in Chicago by Restaurant Guru
Whether it’s their signature Kale My Name House Salad or the much-loved Buffalo Tofu Wrap, each dish is crafted with an eye for detail and a commitment to flavor.
Yelp score: 4.4/5
5. Bloom Plant Based Kitchen
Image source: https://www.bloompb.com/
Nestled in Wicker Park, Bloom elevates the vegan dining experience with its innovative menu and commitment to fresh, plant-based ingredients. This completely vegan restaurant offers a culinary adventure, blending traditional techniques with modern flair.
It also offers catering and private events. You can celebrate your special occasions with Bloom — whether it’s a birthday party, a banquet, or any type of gathering.
- For birthday celebrations, Bloom offers a festive setting that will make your day unforgettable. With personalized decorations and a convivial atmosphere, your party is sure to be a hit.
- If you’re planning a banquet, this spacious venue can accommodate both intimate and grand events. They provide an elegant backdrop for your soirée, complete with fine dining options to delight your guests.
From starters to desserts, Bloom ensures an unforgettable dining journey. It’s a place where each meal is crafted with care, proving that plant-based dining can be luxurious, satisfying, and innovative.
- Bloom Plant Based Kitchen Website
- Bloom Plant Based Kitchen on Instagram
- Bloom Plant Based Kitchen on Google Maps
Yelp score: 4.4/5
6. Don Bucio’s Taqueria
Image source: https://www.donbucios.com/
Don Bucio’s Taqueria is a Logan Square gem that redefines traditional Mexican cuisine with its entirely plant-based menu.
This vegan taqueria stands out for its commitment to authenticity and innovation, serving up tacos that even the most discerning vegan or vegetarian would relish.
Here are some of the most popular options from their menu:
- Trompo Al Pastor: At the heart of this taco dish lies a medley of root vegetables and legumes. These grounded ingredients bring a rich, hearty flavor that forms the base of each bite. On top of this, there’s a twist: al pastor aioli. This creamy sauce is inspired by traditional Mexican al pastor marinade. It adds a depth of savory and slightly spicy notes.
- Burrito (Chef’s Specials): Choose from four delicious plant-based options that are sure to tantalize your taste buds: Asada, Al Pastor, Chorizo, or Birria. Fluffy rice and hearty black beans give it that classic burrito foundation. Then, a dollop of smooth crema and a splash of mojo verde sauce bring a rich texture to every bite. Everything is topped off with a generous helping of pico de gallo.
- Guacamole & Chips: This dish includes ripe avocados sourced from Mexico, finely chopped red onions, and fresh cilantro. These ingredients provide a sharp, slightly sweet taste. For a touch of heat, serranos toreados are tossed into the mix. These are serrano peppers that have been briefly roasted to bring out their spicy flavor.
Yelp score: 4.6/5
7. Demera
Image source: https://www.demerachicago.com/
Demera offers a unique journey into vegan Ethiopian cuisine for hungry Uptown residents. As you explore the menu, you’ll find an array of vegetarian and vegan options that don’t just imitate traditional dishes; they reinvent them.
Inside Demera is a dining room arranged with colorful wicker seats around a big communal table. This setup allows groups of friends or family to gather and share a meal in true Ethiopian tradition.
From injera made with 100% teff to savory stews that replace meat with meticulously prepared vegetables, Demera stands out in the Uptown vegan scene.
The Ethiopian eatery becomes a hub for those seeking to explore new tastes and for locals seeking the comfort of home-cooked flavors. Whether you’re in for a quick bite or a leisurely dinner, Demera’s setting is designed for both relaxation and cultural exploration.
Yelp score: 4.2/5
8. PLANTA Queen
Located in the vibrant River North neighborhood, PLANTA Queen offers an innovative and diverse menu that caters exclusively to vegan and vegetarian diners.
PLANTA Queen’s dedication to creating a memorable experience is evident in their meticulously crafted vegan sushi, which defies traditional expectations and delights the palate.
Another menu superstar, the Bang Bang Broccoli, has become hugely popular. It even has its own range of merchandise, highlighting its fame.
Together, these options make for a diverse and delectable dining experience.
Here, innovation meets tradition, and the result is nothing short of spectacular.
Yelp score: 4.3/5
9. Chicago Diner
Image source: https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-chicago-diner-lakeview-chicago-2
Renowned for revolutionizing vegetarian dining in the city, Chicago Diner has been serving up an array of mouthwatering vegan options since ’83.
As an iconic fixture in vegan Chicago, this eatery has set the bar high for vegan food in the city, offering a diverse menu that ranges from hearty entrees to delectable desserts.
Notably, their Pumpkin Pie Shake has become a must-try.
Other popular dishes include:
- Country Fried Steak
- The Radical Reuben
- The Soul Bowl
- Thai Chilli Wings
- Poutine
Chicago Diner stands out among iconic restaurants for its commitment to quality, flavor, and creativity, making it a cornerstone of the city’s vibrant culinary scene.
- Chicago Diner Website
- Chicago Diner on Instagram
- Chicago Diner on Facebook
- Chicago Diner on Google Maps
Yelp score: 4.2/5
Conclusion
After exploring Chicago’s vibrant vegan scene, it’s clear that the city excels in offering a diverse array of plant-based delights.
From the authentic Indian flavors at Arya Bhavan to the innovative creations at PLANTA Queen, each restaurant brings its own unique contribution to the table.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just curious about plant-based dining, Chicago’s top vegan spots showcase the creativity and passion driving the movement, proving that vegan food isn’t just sustainable and healthful but also irresistibly delicious.
I’m Tyler McFarland, the editor and main author here. When I first went vegan 13 years ago, convenience products like veggie burgers and soy milk were a lot harder to find. Now they’re everywhere!