Vegetarian Journal's Guide to Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurants in the U.S. and Canada |
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Vegetarian restaurant
Vegan restaurant
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1240 Farmington Ave., Berlin, CT 06037
860-893-4544
Vegan/soul food. Serves unique dishes such as the “spicy PB & J burger” which has peanut butter, jelly, and jalapénos on a veggie burger. Also offer the “Royal Mac Fries,” which are fries topped with mac and cheese, blue cheese sauce, and bacon bits (all vegan). They serve many dishes that are nut-free, soy-free, or gluten-free.
(For restaurant listings in the surrounding areas, see Fairfield and Norwalk.)
85 Ferris St., Bridgeport, CT 06605
(203) 576-9168
Vegetarian/organic. Situated on an inlet in Long Island Sound, Bloodroot is a feminist restaurant and bookstore with a seasonal vegetarian menu. Their menu changes every three to four weeks to take advantage of what is freshest and in season. Enjoy your meal outside on the herb terrace in warm weather. Bloodroot is closed between lunch and dinner, so please call ahead for hours.
3927 Main St., Bridgeport, CT 06606
(203) 549-9355
Vegan. They only have a few stools to sit on; however, it is definitely worth trying their food including Rasta Pasta, Curry "Chicken," Barbecue Tofu, Veggie Burgers, and so much more.
520 Capitol Ave., Bridgeport, CT 06606
(203) 331-9777
Vegan/Caribbean. The colorful variety of eclectic dishes at Shandals Vegetarian Café are perfect to try if you want a fast, fresh meal. This Cafe is known for it’s BBQ Tofu with onions, which many vegetarians claim is the most authentic BBQ they’ve ever had. Another dish worth trying is the raved about Rasta Pasta, the flavorful whole wheat pasta with spices that add taste but aren’t too spicy. Make sure to drop by for friendly service and tasty, unique cuisine!
7 Strickland Road, Cos Cob, CT 06807
(855) 464-2638
Vegan/juice bar. Green & Tonic features a wide selection of juices, smoothies, and snacks. Juice choices range from classic combinations like the Green Monster to exotic blends like the Turmeric Tonic. The menu also has a seasonal selection of salads, wraps, and soups. Choose from hearty options like the Baked Falafel Salad or the Vegan “Tuna” Wrap. There are several locations of this juice bar in Connecticut.
72 Lake Ave., Danbury, CT 06810
(203) 748-5713
Middle Eastern. Hanna's offers a vegetarian combination platter with falafel, grape leaves, hummus, and tabbouleh. They also have a falafel sandwich, spinach pies, and vegetarian grape leaves. The restaurant is closed between lunch and dinner, so please call ahead for hours.
630 N. Main St., Danielson, CT 06239
(860) 779-3373
Natural foods/organic. Heirloom serves foods made with local, fresh, and organic ingredients. Customers enjoy flavorful meals surrounded by local art and a relaxing atmosphere. Choose from veggie menu items like the Avocado Kick Start, Hummus Sandwich (with vegan pesto), or the Mock Chick Wrap (faux chicken salad). Free Wi-Fi and outdoor seating are available.
879 Post Rd., Darien, CT 06820
203-202-7165
Vegan/organic. Avocado toast served with sourdough whole wheat bread (gluten-free alternative), Buddha bowl, Tex Mex bowl, salads, wraps, cold brew, and more are on the menu.
1098 Boston Post Road, Darien, CT 06820
(203) 656-1036
Vegan/juice bar. See description under Cos Cob, CT entry.
423 Haddam Quarter Rd., Durham, CT 06422
(860) 759-8880
Vegan/food truck/organic. GMonkey Mobile is a vegan mobile food truck serving the Greater Hartford and New Haven areas. Their eco truck runs on bio diesel for less impact on the environment. They use organic and local ingredients in their "Farm 2 Street" foods. Enjoy homemade soups and salads along with desserts, take-away meals, and daily specials. Make sure to check their online calendar to find out when and where they are going to be. You can also have GMonkey cater your party or private event.
39 Unquowa Rd., Fairfield, CT 06824
(203) 292-8190
Vegetarian/raw foods/organic. Offering superfood smoothies, organic juices, nut & hemp burgers, and dairy & sugar-free ice cream, Catch A Healthy Habit makes eating raw, wholesome foods easy.
1879 Black Rock Turnpike, Fairfield, CT 06825
(203) 690-1387
Indian. Taj Indian Cuisine has a vegetarian and a vegan menu. Vegan favorites are the Taj Vegetable Curry and the Chettinadu (roasted coconut and spicy sauce). Outdoor seating available.
498 Salmon Brook St., Granby, CT 06035
(860) 653-2338
Vegan. They are vegan, organic, and gluten-free and offer fresh juices, soup, salads, pizza, sandwiches, and main dishes such as Mac No Cheese, Roasted Roots, Savory Pie, and White Rutabaga Lasagna. They also serve baked goods.
7 Strickland Rd., Greenwich, CT 06807
203-869-1376
Vegan/juice bar. See description under Cos Cob, CT.
345 Boston Post Rd., Guilford, CT 06437
(203) 458-7380
Diner. Shoreline Diner & Vegetarian Enclave truly offers something for everyone, including vegetarians! Enjoy vegan dishes like Tempeh Reuben, Grilled Tofu, Mock "Chicken" Salad, and Southwestern Frittata. They even offer vegan desserts -- Chocolate Drift (chocolate banana cake) and Napoleon. Shoreline Diner is located near Exit 59, off I-95.
645 Boston Post Rd., Guilford, CT 06437
Vegan. Three Girls Vegan Creamery services vegan catering and wholesale products, including artisanal vegan cheeses, meat substitutes, and desserts. Their menu changes weekly; however, sample items include lasagna, mac n cheese, eggplant parmesan, scalloped potatoes au gratin, and calzones.
(For restaurant listings in the surrounding areas, see East Hartford, Glastonbury, Middletown, Rocky Hill, and West Hartford.)
491 Capitol Ave., Hartford, CT 06106
860-519-0476
Vegan. Fire & Spice Vegan Restaurant offers several small-plate and bakery items. Menu items comprise several global flavors such as Jamaican, Indian, and Rastafarian. Appetizers include potato samosas, jerk plantain patties, and cabbage turnovers. The Ital Rastafarian stew consists of coconut milk with sweet potato, pumpkin, and red beans. Several bakery items are available such as whoopie pies (red velvet and chocolate), cookies (oatmeal raisin and chocolate chip), breads/rolls, and mini loaves (banana walnut and plantain with sunflower and pumpkin seeks).
3347 Main St., Hartford, CT 06120
(860) 241-0220
Caribbean. Lion's Den Vegetarian Restaurant is actually not completely vegetarian -- they do serve fish. However, the menu of delicious Caribbean cuisine is mostly veggie. Munch on ackee, rice and beans, Ital stew, okra, veggie burgers, curried tofu, steamed vegetables, and plantains. The Curried Chunks are extremely popular. The food is well seasoned and the portions are quite generous. Seating is limited but the owner is very friendly and accommodating. Lion's Den is located in the North Meadows area of Hartford. Cash only.
Parkville Market, 1400 Park St., Hartford, CT 06106
860-356-4632
Vegan. Vegan Bodega is a vendor in Hartford, Connecticut's Parkville Market. Their menu includes salads, empanadas, drinks, meal platters, pastry tarts, and the mac & cheese with fried chick'n is tasty and cheesy, among other wonderful alternatives. It features both indoor and outdoor eating areas, as well as a warm ambience.
111 Charter Oak Ave., Hartford, CT 06106
860-268-2037
Vegan. The menu rotates seasonally and they strive to source organic, local food whenever possible. For Starters there are various Empanadillas or Pa’ Los Dedos (AKA Finger Food) such as Maduro Tostones – sweet/savory plantains roasted with a citrus Olive Oil blend, finished with sea salt. A couple of their many Sides are Four cheez, seasoned Baked Mac & Cheez and Jacketed Sweet Potatoes-- deep fried and dipped in sea salt. Several Soup choices change weekly and may include house-made, savory and slightly spicy Stone Broth. It features hongos (mushrooms) cilantro, beans and greens. There’s also Chik’n Noodle, Lentil, Split Pea or multi-colored Butternut Squash (or another seasonal Gourd), textured with seeds, in a coconut cream base. Numerous Entrées include Sofrito & Adobo Roasted Garbanzos in aquafaba over arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas) and the green of day, Pulled BBQ Jackfruit marinated in housemade sauce served with roasted garlic spinach, Beyond meat...Loaf blend of peppers, onions, housemade sauce, beans and beyond meat, Buffalo marinated Tempeh served with arroz blanco (white rice) and organic spring mix. Zoju Foods offers many breakfast items including, Pancakes & fresh made Waffles both of which may be topped with walnuts, pecans, whipped cream, berry compote and or coconut flakes. Fridays only, cap off your week with cinnamon nutmeg French Toast, available with the same toppings as above. Sautéed and seasoned Tofu Scramble comes with kale, peppers, onions, mushrooms, cheddar and extra crispy home fries. The Scramble can even be made with Pumpkin seed tofu or Chickpeas in place of soy. Another possibility is the Breakfast Burrito with seasoned, stewed pinto and black beans, sautéed spinach, peppers, and onions, served in your wrap of choice. Cheez can be an extra. If all this is making you berry thirsty, Bebidas include homemade Berry Blended Mint Tea or Coconut Cider. To finish off, some Dulces (Desserts) are a variety of rotating Cookies, Mango Sorbet with topping options and an oat-based, maple glazed Apple Crumble, roasted with cinnamon and nutmeg which can be topped with homemade coconut cream or berry compote.
232 Spencer St., Manchester, CT 06040
(860) 646-8600
Indian. Vegetarian and vegan dishes are clearly marked under the vegetable section of their menu. Vegan choices include soups, Channa Masala, Aloo Gobi, Vegetable Curry, Bhindi Masala, and more.
606 Main St., Middletown, CT 06457
(860) 346-9210
Vegetarian/natural foods/organic. It's Only Natural, or ION, serves a fresh, seasonal, and ever-changing menu of mostly vegan cuisine. Their international selections include Tempeh 'Crab' Cakes, Southern Fried Tofu, and a Sweet Potato Enchilada. ION offers a comfortable atmosphere, delicious food, and local artwork; it's no wonder they have been around for over 30 years! Outdoor seating is available.
749 Saybrook Rd., Middletown, CT 06457
(860) 346-3355
Vegetarian/Indian. This South Indian restaurant offers curries, crepes, rice dishes, and much more. They are very accommodating and will gladly make most dishes vegan upon request. Located in Trade Wind Plaza. Udupi Bhavan is closed between lunch and dinner on weekdays so please call ahead for hours.
93 W. Main St., New Britain, CT 06051
860-356-4632
Vegan. Enjoy vegan Puerto Rican cuisine including salads, empanadas and sandwiches, and meals such as “Rice & Beans; Mac & Cheeze; Vegetable Fried Rice.
21 Forest St., New Canaan, CT 06840
203-594-1851
Vegan/juice bar. See description under Cos Cob, CT.
96 Main St., New Canaan, CT 06840
(203) 309-5700
Vegetarian/organic/juice bar. Mostly vegan, except for honey in a few items. Enjoy fresh juices, smoothies, tofu scramble, sandwiches, acai bowls, protein bowls, pizza, pasta, salads, etc.
(For restaurant listings in the surrounding areas, see Fairfield, Guilford, Killingworth, Old Saybrook, and Southington.)
Ninth Square Market Too, 89 George St., New Haven, CT 06510
203-787-9703
Vegan/Jamaican. Small eatery serving flavorful, home-cooked, healthy Jamaican-style meals inspired by Rastafarian beliefs. Order a small, medium or large combo plate online, choosing your selection from a wide array of proteins and veggie sides like jerk tofu, plantains, stewed eggplant, curried chickpeas, and of course rice and peas. You can also get veggie or beyond meat patties, or get the different veggie sides independently, and can top it off with desserts like Gizzada cake - a tart crust pastry filled with a coconut ginger spiced filling. Gluten- and soy-free items are clearly marked.
1000 Chapel St., New Haven, CT 06510
(203) 562-3888
Vegetarian/organic/kosher. Described as one of "America's Oldest Vegetarian Restaurants," Claire's Corner Copia is a warm and cozy café. Visitors to New Haven should stop by and check out the BBQ Tofu, Soy Beef Fajitas, risotto, and soups that Claire's has to offer. The website also has updates on special events and recipes.
858 State St., New Haven, CT 06511
(203) 495-9999
Pizzeria. They offer vegan artisanal pizza such as arugula, artichoke heart, tomato, mushroom, spinach, onion, garlic, and vegan mozzarella or vine ripe tomato, vegan mozzarella, vegan pepperoni, and fresh basil. Outdoor seating.
379 Whalley Ave., New Haven, CT 06511
(203) 787-1055
Vegetarian/natural foods store. Partake of vegetarian fare with some vegan choices at Edge of the Woods Natural Market. They have an on-site bakery.
898 Whalley Ave., New Haven, CT 06515
(203) 389-6624
Chinese. House of Chao offers many vegan options and is accustomed to adjusting the menu for vegetarians.
65 Howe St., New Haven, CT 06511
(203) 776-9010
Indian. There's a vegetarian menu section to choose from, plus vegetable pakora, samosas, soup, breads, and desserts.
85 Howe St., New Haven, CT 06511
(203) 562-8444
Middle Eastern. Mamoun's has an informal atmosphere with Middle Eastern décor. Located just a few blocks from the Connecticut River, this restaurant makes everything fresh daily, including favorites such as Tabbouleh, Stuffed Grape Leaves, and Baba Ghanouj, as well as specialties such as Moujedrha, Ful Mudammas, and Kibbeh without meat.
45 Grove St., New Haven, CT 06510
(203) 777-3234
Indian. Enjoy vegetarian dishes such as Aloo Chole and Bhindi Masala. Don't miss their weekday lunch specials. Sitar is closed between lunch and dinner, so please call ahead for hours.
135 Dwight St., New Haven, CT 06511
203-684-3928
Vegetarian/American. The Cannon is a 100% vegetarian restaurant serving pub-style food. The rotating menu offers vegan main, side, and sweet dishes. Pasta Tuesday includes items such as basil pesto risotto, Caesar salad tossed with house dressing, and coco mango pudding. Standard pub fare such as chicken sandwiches made with seitan, BBQ lentil nachos, Reuben sandwiches with pickled cabbage, and hand-cut fries is also available. Vegan cheese can be substituted in some dishes.
1092 Chapel St., New Haven, CT 06510
(203) 562-0068
Vegetarian/juice bar/raw foods. They have cold pressed juices and smoothies that are vegan except for a few that contain honey. One example is The Young, a cold pressed juice with raw coconut water, raw coconut meat, sea salt, and vanilla bean. Their only food options are toast and acai bowls. One example is The Almond Butter Bowl with blended acai, banana, almond butter, almond milk, and strawberries topped with coconut shavings, strawberries, granola, banana, and almond butter.
168 Main Ave., Norwalk, CT 06851
(203) 846-9240
Natural foods. The Lime Restaurant has been a mainstay in Norwalk for over 30 years. They serve an eclectic menu of dishes from around the world, including Tofu in Oriental Orange Sauce, Soy-Carrot Loaf, and Black Bean Burritos. Reservations are recommended.
1315 Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook, CT 06475
(860) 388-6888
Vietnamese/Thai. When you want authentic Vietnamese or Thai cuisine, the only road to travel leads to Saigon City in Old Saybrook. The menu has a full page of vegetarian options, including Thai Coconut Tofu with Veggies and Pad Thai.
300 Oxford Rd., Unit 200, Oxford, CT 06478
203-828-6316
Vegan/fast food. Their aim is to serve vegan food that is convenient and delicious. Slider choices are Florentine Grilled Cheese Slider with Cheddar, spinach, tomato, and fresh pesto; grilled Hot Dog Slider with sauerkraut and smoky relish; crispy Chick'n & Waffle Slider with maple syrup; Portabella Mushroom; Burger Slider featuring red pepper, pesto, and spinach on ciabatta; Farmers Market Slider with grilled squash, tomato, and pesto on a crusty roll; and many more. There are Classic Cheese, Margherita Pizzas, and more. Fry Baskets include Crispy Chick'n Tenders and also Golden Fishless Filet & Fry Basket with fries, slaw, and tartar sauce. Bloom Bowls include Caesar and Southwest Salads. Latin Inspired Handhelds offer cheddar Quesadillas with guacamole and salsa; Loaded Southwestern Nachos with black beans, queso sauce, and salsa; cheddar Burrito; or Rice and Bean Bowl--both with brown rice, black beans, and Pico de Gallo. Kid's Korner offers Grilled Cheese, Cheeseburger Sliders, or Chick'n Tenders. Side selections are Regular or Sweet Potato fries, Onion Rings, Mac and Cheese, fried Sweet Plantains, or Garden Salad. Desserts include Milkshakes or Ice Cream Cups made with your choice of oat-milk or coconut cream base and chocolate or vanilla flavor, Brownies, Jumbo Cookies, and rotating Specials. Note they also have a drive thru!
280 Chesire Rd., Prospect, CT 06712
(203) 758-7788
Mexican. A separate vegetarian menu includes chimichangas, black bean soup, vegetable fajitas, as well as several other vegetarian items.
424 Main St., Ridgefield, CT 06877
(203) 403-3346
Vegetarian/organic/juice bar. See description under New Caanan, CT entry.
946 Cromwell Ave., Rocky Hill, CT 06067
(860) 500-7260
Vegetarian/Indian. The menu has over 100 Indian and IndoChinese items including soups, salads, pakoras, samosas, chats, biryanis, uthappam, dosas, curries, breads, and rice dishes — all meat and mostly dairy free. A few items, which include paneer cheese, cannot be made vegan
385 Main St. South, Southbury, CT 06488
(203) 262-6988
Mexican. See description under Prospect, CT.
3546 Post Rd., Southport, CT 06890
(203) 955-1500
Vegetarian/organic/juice bar. See description under New Caanan, CT entry.
133 Atlantic St., Stamford, CT 06901
(203) 348-1070
Vegetarian/Indian/Kosher. Navaratna is a Kosher-certified and completely vegetarian restaurant that specializes in authentic Indian cuisine, rich in spices and herbs. They make a mild curry called Navaratna Korma, which is very popular as well as their Mulligatawny Soup, Rava Masala Dosas, and Vegetable Korma. Their menu is quite extensive and largely vegan. Prices are quite reasonable as well. Outdoor seating is available.
73 Main St., Torrington, CT 06790
860-618-3685
Vegan/American. Distinguished for being a woman-owned business, Love It Vegan’s menu offers choices galore—including many gluten-free options. Proteins like Just Egg, Beyond meats, and seitan are used, and from breakfast sandwiches to omelets (with the option to build-your-own), from the Clam Chowder and seasonal soups to the Chickpea Tuna Melt and the Po’ Boy sandwich, along with several choices of sides (including Home-fries and fried oyster mushrooms), one could eat here for many, many days and never have the same meal twice. And on top of all this, there are fresh juices and oat milk smoothies with catchy names, like Spam (Strawberry, Pomegranate, Avocado, and Mango). Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and lunch is a close second, and Love It Vegan is there to serve up delicious dishes for both.
100 Quinnipiac St., Wallingford, CT 06494
(203) 741-9186
Vegan. They call themselves a mom and pop vegan eatery. Enjoy soup, salad, appetizers, various entrees such as a Middle Eastern Plate and Spanish Plate, as well as delicious vegan desserts.
600 N. Colony Rd., Wallingford, CT 06492
203-265-5000
Vegetarian/café/juice bar. They provide a wide range of food options including freshly squeezed juices, healthy salads such as quinoa salad, fresh smoothies, desserts, and more. The Cheeseburger bowl is a must order. Also try their falafel wrap, Buddah bowl, or taco salad.
Varies, West Hartford, CT
Vegan/food truck. Soulfully Vegan is a vegan food truck that serves classic American fast foods like their Big Boy Burger and their Chili Cheese Fries. You can check their current and future locations on their website.
427 Elm St., West Haven, CT 06516
(203) 933-1000
Diner. Georgie’s Diner serves comfort food, fresh fruit, and vegetarian and vegan dishes. Their fries are vegan and gluten-free. Tofu or Tempeh can be substituted for meat in many dishes. Savor vegan selections like the Tempeh Reuben (grilled tempeh, wild rice cake, sauerkraut and maple mustard on grilled rye, served with vegan fries or bean chili), Mock Chicken Salad (featuring tempeh and vegan mayo on a mini baguette served with pasta salad), or Chili (hot and spicy, made with 7 beans and fresh diced vegetables, served over a bed of couscous). And for a sweet finish, get the vegan Chocolate Drift (chocolate banana cake layered with creamy chocolate filling). Mmmm!
631 Boston Post Rd., Westbrook, CT 06498
860-339-3144
Vegan. Shayna B's by the Sea offers fantastic music and V-eliciously amazing gluten-free cuisine including soups, salads, bowls, wraps, pizza, and more. They may also personalize the cakes and cookies. Great inside and outdoor eating with a beautiful view; you can also dine in the park across the street.
80 Poquonock Ave., Windsor, CT 06095
860-328-2823
Vegan/Jamaican. If you're the type of person who loves new things and always down for an adventure, you'll be overjoyed to try the goodies at the Likkle Patty Shop! A women-owned vegan Jamaican bakery, Likkle Patty Shop serves a delicious array of patties, coco bread, soups, pasta, pizza, and more! Some favorites include the Jerk Spiced Eggplant Patty: A blend of eggplant, onions, garlic, soy sauce, herbs, spices, and sea salt wrapped in a signature flaky coconut oil crust, and the Baby Got Broc! Patty: A spinach-infused crust filled with broccoli, potato, vegan cream, garlic, red pepper flakes, and nutritional yeast. For those with a sweet tooth, cookies and scones are also available! Packaged meals like "RastaPasta" and "Yumus Hummus" are also included on the menu to purchase.