As vegans, there’s no denying it: we’ve got our favorite spots to which we stick. However, with more omnivorous establishments expanding their menus and some even turning plant-based, entirely, it seems there’s new places to try daily. What’s a humble vegan to do? Don’t worry; We’ve narrowed down the newest hot spots to add to your list – and they’re 100% vegan.
Somebody People – Denver, CO [opened September 2019]
With much anticipation from the Denver community, co-owners of the former catering pop-up Scam Likely (Tricia & Samuel Maher) opened the doors to their brick & mortar this year. Somebody People, a coined name from David Bowie lyrics, boasts Mediterranean-influenced, plant-based wining & dining – and has a zero-waste initiative, to boot. The restaurant offers brunch and dinner services with dishes such as “mushies on toast” (local bread with house made almond ricotta, sage, and hazelnuts) to “funghetto” (house made pasta served with Somebody People’s carrot bolognese.) Be sure to stop in for the chef’s choice, family-style Sunday Supper. (website)
Nic’s on Beverly – Los Angeles, CA [opened June 2019]
Namesake Nic Adler is a co-founder of the legendary Monty’s Good Burger and the Eat Drink Vegan Festival at the Rose Bowl, as well as being behind all of the food and beverage at Coachella. For such a busy restaurateur, Nic’s on Beverly does not fall anywhere near the bottom of his list of accomplishments. You won’t find any faux meats in here; Nic’s makes all of their ingredients in-house. From Moroccan chickpea tagine to wood-fired Detroit-style pizza, there’s something for every palate – not to mention, the beverage lists can go toe-to-toe with the food menus. The website proclaims the establishment to be “a love letter to Los Angeles”… upon leaving, you will certainly feel like you’ve been courted accordingly. (website)
The Slutty Vegan – Atlanta, GA [opened fall 2018]
Food-truck-turned-counter-service, The Slutty Vegan opened its doors in January to over 1,000 hungry customers – and over 800 people will wait in line daily, since. Female owner Pinky Cole has made it her mission to give the Atlanta community quality vegan meals it would have otherwise never had. Dubbed by the New York Times as a social justice food warrior among the black vegan movement, Pinky starting The Slutty Vegan is a movement in its own regard. The restaurant draws fans who are begging for the truck to visit cities all over the nation. (Slutty Vegan still has two food trucks that have traveled coast to coast, and there are rumors we may see more storefronts in the future… in Georgia and beyond.) Despite the cheeky name, Slutty Vegan delivers a unique experience as well as a powerful presence in its southern communities. How could you possibly pass up a chance to support this? (website)
Whyld Ass – Phoenix, AZ [opened fall 2018]
Another name that feels risque to say: Whyld Ass originated in Flagstaff and has since opened a new location in Phoenix. (Both locations are in operation.) Among the extremely gluten-free-friendly menu, you’ll find wholesome ingredients listed such as potato and sunflower cheese, walnut parmesan, turmeric cashew sour cream… just to name a few. Their social media touts inventive desserts that will keep you drooling. On a personal recommendation, I’d tell you to order the Stuffed French Toast… but I doubt you can go wrong with any dish on the menu. (website)
Hinterhof – Los Angeles, CA [opened January 2019]
Daily vegan Oktoberfest? You bet. Hinterhof is the quintessential environment in which to spend a boozy, food-filled day. Show up on the weekend, and you could start at brunch with the Schnitzel and Waffles, “Pretzel” your way into happy hour with a Paulaner in hand, and finish with a traditional German Bratwurst for dinner – veganized, of course. Oh, and dogs are welcome at the outdoor seating area, so don’t forget to bring your pooch to the Biergarten! (website)
Public Records – Brooklyn, NY [opened March 2019]
In classic New York fashion, Public Records is a cultural catch-all. Within these walls, you’ll find an all-day vegan cafe & record store, a hi-fi record bar & restaurant, and a performance venue. A well-crafted drink list and an intriguing food menu are a must for this space, and Public Records delivers. Feel free to sit and graze while you listen to live tunes, and nourish your soul with all of the above. (website)
No Bones Beach Club – Chicago, IL [opened 2018]
From a food truck in 2014, to the first brick & mortar by 2016 in Seattle, 2017 in Portland, No Bones Beach Club finally made its way to Chicago. (So, we can say that it’s new to you, Chicago!) Part of what makes No Bones so special is that each month a portion of proceeds goes toward a local animal sanctuary. That, and all of their drool-worthy menu items. Crab Cakes, Sesame Crunch Salad, Jackfruit Flautas, Breakfast Chili Relleno, Fried Avocado Benedict… the list goes on and on – as does the drink menu. Chicago, it sounds like it was a good decision to have the beach brought to you. (website)
Humbl – Windermere, FL [opened June 2019]
Crafted by celebrity chef and James Beard Award nominee, Matthew Kenney, Humbl is fresh and fast plant food. But don’t let the “fast food” notion trip you up; these ingredients are impressive, to say the least. (Were you expecting anything less-than-impressive from Matthew Kenney?) Macadamia Ricotta. Crimini Mushroom Confit. Herbed lentils. And for those less-refined, you’ve also got good ol’ burgers and shakes, still of high-quality. So bring the kids! Or your inner child – either one will be satisfied. (website)
Breads on Oak – New Orleans, LA [opened June 2018]
Although they technically opened in 2012, this bakery and full service cafe turned 100% vegan in 2018. What’s cool about Breads on Oak is that they’re zero-waste and also powered mostly by solar. Family-oriented, hand-made food from scratch? It doesn’t get much more adorable than Breads on Oak. Plus, you’ve got beautiful, organic bread selections with quality ingredients. If you find yourself in The Big Easy with a craving for carbs, head for Breads. (website)
PLNT Burger – Silver Spring, MD [opened September 2019]
“Eat the change” is the motto for PLNT Burger, just outside of Washington D.C. in the beautiful suburb of Silver Spring, Maryland. This spot wants to give people the ability to enjoy those decadent foods we crave, but without compromising flavor or experience. From seasonal salad to soft serve, PLNT hits the mark as one of the best new vegan spots with its convenient eats, meeting the consumer where they’re at. (website)
And that wraps up our top ten for this list of best new vegan restaurants. Have you been to any of these? If not, which one would you try first? Let us know in the comments below!
The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author, and not of HappyCow nor of the featured restaurants.
