Dining out healthy or as a vegetarian can be difficult in some cities, and there are major metro areas that are more vegetarian-friendly than others. Taking several factors into consideration, we’ve compiled a list of 5 cities in no particular order that are great places for vegetarians or those trying to live a healthier lifestyle.
Portland, Oregon
Some of the best reasons why Portland is considered a great city for those on vegetarian diets include:
- Portland Farmer’s Market – With 4 locations throughout the city open on different days of the week, fresh, local fruits and vegetables are easy for vegetarians to get their hands on.
- The Whole Bowl Cart – For a tasty vegetarian concoction to die for, you need to check this lunch cart out. Even if you’re not a vegetarian, you’ll love this eatery’s signature dish.
- Voo Doo Donuts – This donut shop is offering the very best as far as sweet vegan breakfast treats are concerned.
- The Laughing Planet Cafe – Enjoy delicious Mexican cuisine at one of the best vegetarian restaurants in the city. You can bring your meat-eating friends as well. The cafe serves some chicken dishes.
- Northwest Veg – With a membership to this organization, you receive newsletters, can participate in the organization’s activities like “Walk for Farm Animals,” and get discounts at local veg restaurants.
Atlanta, Georgia
This one might be a surprise for most. A city in the deep south good for vegetarians? Isn’t everything in Georgia made of meat and deep fried? Well, think again. The city is full of vegetarian havens.
- Sevananda Natural Foods Market – You’ll be surprised at how large and affordable this 5 Points grocer’s selection is. Pick up groceries for the week or grab a prepared vegetarian meal.
- Cosmos Vegan Shoppe – Everything this store sells from clothing to gifts to food is pure vegan.
- Veggieland Restaurant – For true vegan cuisine, this restaurant is serving the best in Atlanta. The Western sandwich and veggie burger are amazing.
- Vegetarian Society of Georgia For support and ideas on great vegetarian and vegan places in Atlanta and across the state, this group is here to help.
Washington DC
Why is Washington DC considered a vegetarian-friendly city? Try any of the restaurants or businesses below and you’ll become a fan too:
- Sticky Fingers Bakery – Everything here is vegan. The cinnamon buns, chocolate cupcakes and brownies will have you craving to try more at this bakery. Their treats taste deliciously decadent, but they’re so good for you.
- Java Green – For organic, vegan and vegetarian gourmet foods, this restaurant is the best place to go. You can also bring your meat-eating friends. They serve some chicken dishes. And, they’re a good choice if you need a caterer.
- Organic Groceries – DC has a wealth of organic and vegetarian grocery stores located throughout the city. Some of these grocers include restaurants or delis serving vegetarian treats as well.
- Vegetarian Society of DC – Meet other vegetarians in the DC area, receive discounts at select businesses and stay updated on vegetarian news in the city.
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago provides a variety of vegetarian-friendly restaurants and businesses which is the case with most big cities:
- Green Zebra – Upscale vegetarian restaurants may be hard to come by, but this one fits the bill when it comes to vegetarian cuisine in a luxurious atmosphere.
- The Chicago Diner – This diner is serving up local vegan and vegetarian flavors. Also, check out their extensive gluten-free menu for those with allergies.
- Healthy Dining Chicago – Get comprehensive lists of healthy, vegetarian places to dine in Chicago. Also get involved in the organization’s events like “Eat Well for Less” or “Run an Energy Efficient Kitchen.”
- Vegetarian and Health Food Grocers – Chicago and the surrounding cities are home to over a hundred health food and vegetarian grocery stores.
Austin, Texas
Austin is home to a vibrant vegetarian community with a variety of vegetarian and vegan friendly restaurants and businesses. Below are just a few of our favorite spots.
- Bouldin Creek Coffee House and Cafe – This is an all vegetarian restaurant with vegan and gluten-free items on their menu. They also have excellent coffee and great service.
- Mother’s Cafe and Garden – For some sweet vegan treats, this cafe is the place to go. Belgian Chocolate cake, Mom’s Apple Pie, Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie and more – all vegan and delicious.
- Austin Farmer’s Market – This farmer’s market is open year round with 100% local fruits, vegetables, cheese, honey and more. It’s open every Wednesday and Saturday.
- Davine Foods – For organic smoothies, wheat-free pizzas and veggie burgers, check out this eatery. The great thing about this place is that it supports local farms and businesses by buying local organic, whole foods.
- Veg Austin – This resource guide for vegetarians and vegans in Austin is awesome. It offers detailed information on local grocery stores, restaurants and businesses.
These businesses and resources may not be enough to make you want to pack up all of your belongings and move to a different city, but they are things to consider when you’re a vegetarian moving to an unfamiliar city. And, they’re great places to try if you ever happen drop in one of these cities. If you’d like to share a favorite vegetarian or healthy business in your city, just let us know about it in the comments.
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