Vegetarian Journal's Guide to Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurants in the U.S. and Canada

Illinois

Batavia Bourbonnais Buffalo Grove Carbondale Champaign Chicago Evanston Flossmoor Galesburg Highland Park La Grange Lisle Lockport MacHesney Park Moline Naperville Niles Normal Norridge Oak Brook Oak Park Orland Park Palos Heights Peoria Rock Island Rockford Schaumburg South Holland Urbana Westmont Winnetka Woodstock

Batavia

··New Moon Vegan

119 S. Batavia Ave., Batavia, IL 60510

630-389-7921

Vegan/bakery. Inspired by New York bakeries and her Italian roots, Jo Colagiacomi, the owner of New Moon Vegan, has opened her first brick-and-mortar, a sweet and savory bakery. Featuring mouth-watering goodies like pistachio-rosewater shortbread cookies and Mostess cupcakes made with vegan vanilla cream and topped with chocolate ganache, New Moon Vegan proves that any nostalgic dessert can be veganized. If you need something a little heartier, try one of their pretzel dogs, made using veggie dogs from Upton’s Naturals in Chicago. Of course, you will want some coffee to pair with your baked treat, and they have that covered, serving single-origin Ethiopian coffee, from Manbot Coffee Roasters.

locations

Bourbonnais

··Essential Smoothies

1600 IL-50, Bourbonnais, IL 60914

815-573-5129

Vegan/juice bar/café. They offer many smoothies, teas, and other drinks, as well as burgers, Vegan Muddy Buddy dessert, and a “Build Your Own Smoothie.”

locations

Buffalo Grove

··Purple Sprout Café

364 Lexington Dr., Buffalo Grove, IL 60089

(224) 223-7133

Vegan. The Purple Sprout offers a wide selection of vegan fare with many gluten-free and raw options. For breakfast, stop in for crepes filled with either fruit or a chickpea and vegetable scramble. The lunch/dinner menu offers interesting selections such as the raw cashew and basil pizza, or the black bean and hemp burger. In addition, be sure to see what is available in their constantly changing deli and hot food cases. They offer a wide range of desserts, many of which are also raw. At the juice bar you will find an amazing array of fresh juices, juice blends, smoothies, and shots.

locations

Carbondale

·Longbranch Café & Bakery

100 East Jackson St., Carbondale, IL 62901

(618) 529-4488

Vegetarian/café/bakery. Longbranch Café and Bakery has it all! Breakfast, lunch, or dinner Longbranch is sure to please with their wide variety of organic cuisine. From portabella burgers, to veggie fajitas, to black bean tacos, to grilled veggies with tofu, the vegan options are abundant. Their café offers vegan drinks and bakery items as well.

locations

Champaign

Fiesta Café

216 S. First St., Champaign, IL 61820

(217) 352-5902

Mexican. You will find many vegetarian options here.

locations

Chicago

(For restaurant listings in the surrounding areas, see Evanston, Oak Park, Skokie, and Westmont.)

··Alice & Friends' Kitchen

5812 N. Broadway, Chicago, IL 60660

(773) 275-8797

Vegan. Alice & Friends’ Kitchen allows you to experience vegan cuisines from around the world. They offer a range of appetizers, soups, and salads in addition to a wide variety of entrees that include Korean BBQ, Thai Curry, Golden Tofu Steak, and Kung Pho. Their Kung Pho is made with textured vegetable protein, red and green pepper, cabbage, onion cashew, hot chili, and house-made Kung Pao sauce, and it is served with brown rice. They also offer unique drinks including a green tea shake and mango lassi, and they have many homemade desserts. Alice & Friends’ is the perfect restaurant with friends since everyone will be able to find a dish they will love!

··Amitabul

6207 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, IL 60646

(773) 774-0276

Vegan/Korean. Enjoy unique vegan Korean cuisine at this terrific restaurant. Portions are huge, and the food is creatively presented. Try Maki Rolls, Vegan Tofu Young, vegan egg rolls, grilled dumplings, soups, vegan pancakes made from various batters, noodle-based dishes, plus much more! Amitabul is located between Huntington Street & Raven Street in Norwood Park.

·Annapurna

2608 W. Devon Ave., Chicago, IL 60659

(773) 764-1858

Vegetarian/Indian. Annapurna means the “Indian food goddess”. This small cafe serves up northern and southern authentic Indian cuisine. Order at the counter and sit down with an order number and wait for your food to arrive at your table. Annapurna offers a wide selection of entrees, drinks, desserts, and even Indian packaged snacks and drinks that you can take home with you after you finish your meal. Try the vegan Gujarati Thali plate for a spicy authentic taste of India paired with a warm chai tea.

··Art of Dosa

Revival Food Hall, 125 S. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60603

(312) 399-3327

Vegan/Indian. When you think of Indian food, you might just think of more common North Indian dishes, but restaurants like Art of Dosa aim to change that. With an all-vegan, all gluten-free menu, they bring a unique South Indian flavor to Chicago's Revival Food Hall. Options for your dosa wrap include the "Chicken 65," the buffalo "chicken," the masala wrap, and more. There's nowhere to sit, so take it to go, or have it delivered by any number of delivery services.

··Arya Bhavan

2508 W. Devon Ave., Chicago, IL 60659

(773) 274-5800

Vegan/Indian. Arya Bhavan specializes in North and South Indian vegan cuisine. Selections include Tadka Dal (lentils cooked with ginger, garlic & spices), Potato Batani Korma (fried dumplings of lentils in a gravy of poppy seeds, chilies & garlic), and Paper Masala Dosa (crepes filled with potatoes & onions). They offer an all raw evening buffet on Mondays. Try their delicious weekend dinner buffet.

··Beacon Doughnuts Co.

810 W. Armitage Ave., Chicago, IL 60614

Vegan/donuts. Beacon Doughnut Co. holds a dozen different vegan doughnuts to choose from in their little bakery. Their flavors are unique and completely company branded. Right now they are offering apple cider and caramel apple vegan doughnuts, perfect for fall time. Some of their other flavors are the vanilla lavender doughnut and blueberry pancake. Just by looking at their menu will make your mouth water!

··Bloom Plant Based Kitchen

1559 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, IL 60622

312-363-3110

Vegan/eclectic. Bloom Plant Based Kitchen offers a plant-based menu that mixes Latin, Indian, and other international flavors. Starters include a cheese plate with almond "goat" cheese, aged truffle cheese, and spirulina blue cheese. Specialty salads include vegan ceviche marinated in coconut cilantro leche de tigre and buffalo cauliflower made with house-fermented buffalo cauliflower and cultured blue cheese crema. Their tamal coloradito features ancho adobe made with banana blossoms, and house-pulled kelp noodles are available in their bloom bowl as well as the cashew di Pepe. The international menu is rounded out with dessert items such as avocado key lime ice cream with cashew caramel and sweet potato cheese cake with coconut cardamom cream.

··Bot Bakery

7100 S. South Shore Dr., Chicago, IL 60649

(773) 495-4615

Vegan/bakery. All menu items at Bot Bakery are vegan, organic, and gluten free. Many reviews state that Bot Bakery has “the best baked goods ever.” Try the almond cake, whoopie pies, or deep dish “cheese” pizza for an extra special treat. Cash only!

·Can't Believe It's Not Meat

1368 1/2 E. 53rd St, Chicago, IL 60615

(773) 289-0798

Vegetarian/American. Can't Believe It's Not Meat serves all-American food aimed to help the uncertain meat-eater transition over. There's plenty to love here as a vegetarian, but the emphasis is on veggie meats, not veggies as such. Options include Philly cheesesteaks, hot dogs, nachos, chicken & waffles, sloppy joes, and more

§·Chicago Diner

3411 N. Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60657

(773) 935-6696

2333 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, IL 60647

(773) 252-3211

Vegetarian/diner. The Chicago Diner, the hub for the animal rights movement in the Midwest, serves an eclectic menu of vegetarian comfort food. All items are vegan or have a vegan option. Their bakery specializes in vegans sweets and can create the wedding cake of your dreams. The owners have traveled extensively and are dedicated to promoting healthy eating for the sake of humans, the planet, and animals. The Chicago Diner has been "Meat Free Since '83" and is worth a visit when in the Windy City. The Halsted Street location is in Lakeview. The Milwaukee Avenue location is in Logan Square and is closed on Tuesdays.

··Chicago Raw

51 W. Huron St., Chicago, IL 60654

(312) 664-2729

131 N. Clinton St., Suite 7, Chicago, IL 60661

(312) 831-2729

Vegan/raw foods. Enjoy a wide range of vegan raw food including Collard Burritos, Fresh Spinach Lasagna, Sweet Potato Pancakes, Falafel Patties, Garden Burgers, salads, spreads, desserts, and more. Note: the Clinton St. location is closed on Sunday.

··Cinnaholic

1295 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, IL 60622

Vegan/bakery. Cinnaholic offers over 30 flavors of gourmet cinnamon rolls -- and they are all vegan! Some include Almond, Blackberry, Butterscotch, Caramel, Cream Soda, Key Lime, Root Beer, & Pomegranate. Toppings range from Cookie Dough Chunks to Shredded Coconut and everything in between. They offer other sweet treats including cookies, brownies, muffins, specialty pie rolls, and baby buns (mini cinnamon rolls). If your sweet tooth has still not been sated, have a Frosting Shot!

··Conscious Plates

332 E. 51st, Chicago, IL 60609

(312) 767-4116

Vegan. Conscious Plates near Grand Boulevard, Chicago specializes in vegan alkaline healthy food, meaning Soy-Free, Wheat-Free and Starch-Free and made with natural ingredients with an alkaline PH Level.” Dishes range from vegan chickpea egg sandwiches to chili cheese fries to a waffle supreme! All ingredients can be found on their website, where one can also order from.

··Don Bucio Taqueria

2764 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, IL 60647

773-770-9239

Vegan/Mexican. Take-out vegan tacos! They offer a choice of forest mushrooms, legume and root vegetables, textured vegetable protein, or jackfruit for all entrees. Stop by Friday-Sunday to try the “Posole Rojo,” a soup with guajillo broth, roasted oyster mushroom, hominy corn, and a side of chips.

··Elephant + Vine

2315 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago, IL 60614

312-546-9742

Vegan. This fast casual restaurant serves delicious, plant forward food including rice bowls, BBQ shroom bowl, buffalo chik’n sandwich, katuna wrap, cauli-wings, salads, shakes, lemonade, smoothies, and much more.

··Fancy Plants Café

613 W. Briar Pl., Chicago, IL 60651

(773) 857-1588

Vegan. A friendly neighborhood café that brews fresh coffee and espresso with a variety of delicious breakfast and lunch options, such as savory breakfast sandwiches and lunch wraps, delicious muffins and pastries, and a rotating soup of the day! The service is extremely friendly and the atmosphere is both calm and inviting. All of the vegan cheeses are made in house, and daily specials provide a surprise to any Fancy Plants Café regular, such as cinnamon pop tarts and almond cupcakes with lemon ginger frosting.

··Fons

850 W. Superior St., Chicago, IL 60642

(773) 842-3358

Vegan. Fons offers an array of completely vegan empanadas! Choose from unique flavor options such as Lumpia, Margherita, or Smoky Mushroom! They also have a dessert empanada choice, the Apple Cinnamon Empanada. Check out their Instagram (@havingfons) for updates on the opening of their first physical location!

··Gigi's Vegan Kitchen

543 N. Noble St., Chicago, IL 60642

Vegan/Mexican. Gigi’s Vegan Kitchen began as an idea for a food truck but evolved into the vibrant brick-and-mortar restaurant it is today. The menu is comprised of a fusion between American and Mexican offerings, but it is set apart from typical vegan restaurants by the focus on plant-based ingredients standing out as themselves instead of relying on “fake meat.” This restaurant also has unique drink options like a Mango Pineapple Smoothie. Its ambiance is as remarkable as its food, with large floral displays on the interior to replicate the feeling of entering a jungle.

Handlebar

2311 W. North Ave., Chicago, IL 60647

(773) 384-9546

American. This bicycle-themed restaurant located in Wicker Park has daily drink specials, a beer garden, and late night kitchen service. Veggie menu items include vegan French toast, breakfast burrito, Buffalo "chicken" wrap, BBQ seitan sandwich, ground nut stew, and blackened tofu fajitas.

··Healthy Substance

6852 W. Archer Ave., Chicago, IL 60638

(773) 306-2808

Vegan/Mexican. Not only is Healthy Substance presently the only 100% vegan Mexican restaurant in Chicago, but it was also named one of the top 100 restaurants in the United States for 2020. One can order a variety of Mexican dishes, vegan drinks, and desserts ranging from tamales to gorditas to chocolate cake!

John's Place

2132 W. Roscoe St., Chicago, IL 60618

(773) 244-6430

American. Try the vegetarian chili, soba noodles, veggie burrito, or one of the other vegetarian options.

··Kale My Name

3300 W. Montrose Ave., Chicago, IL 60618

(872) 208-7125

Vegan. If you’re looking for a delightful and vibrant local restaurant to support, look no further. Kale My Name’s globally inspired menu incorporates fresh ingredients like kale into every menu item, ensuring that all foods are nutrient-dense and delicious. Customers are already raving about the menu offerings like soups, empanadas, and desserts, and the restaurant gets extra points for using non-plastic packaging for orders.

··Kitchen 17

2554 W. Diversey Ave., Chicago, IL 60647

312-391-8654

Vegan/café. Kitchen 17 is an all-vegan café featuring sandwiches, salads, and pizzas. Try delicious selections like the Rosemary Veggie Burger, Not Chicken Salad Sandwich, Tofu Skewers, or Build Your Own Pizza.

Kopi, A Traveler's Café

5317 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60640

(773) 989-5674

Café. Decorated with clocks that show the time in different zones around the world and an area with pillow seating and low tables where customers must remove their shoes, the owners of this establishment aim to show customers many different world cultures in one café. While taking in all the sights, don't forget to try one of the international dishes on the mostly vegetarian menu. Also, the home of an international shop selling travel books, clothing, jewelry, and arts and crafts from around the world.

La Cantina Grill

1911 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60616

(312) 842-1911

Mexican. If you’re looking for vegan Mexican cuisine, check out La Cantina Grill. Located in Chicago’s South Loop, you’ll find authentic and traditional Mexican food using fresh ingredients. La Cantina Grill is located near soldier field and McCormick Place. It is a non-vegan restaurant, but they have a full vegan menu available using vegan meats and cheeses. You’ll never miss out on your favorite Mexican dishes! Try the chorizo quesadilla, served with rice and beans. The bean and cheese burrito is made with vegan sour cream, tomatoes, lettuce, beans, and cheese. The taco salad is made with lettuce, tomatoes, guacamole, cheese, rice, beans, and vegan sour cream in a tortilla bowl. Other menu items include burritos, tortas, tacos, and more. La Cantina Grill is the perfect place to go with non-vegan friends and family. They will never know the ground beef nachos are vegan!

··Liberation Kitchen

2054 W. Grand Ave., Chicago, IL 60612

(312) 666-7838

Vegan/café. Liberation Kitchen is an all-vegan café in West Town. Menu items are inexpensive and tasty. Try their Tempeh Sandwich, Fried Bacon Mac, Pastrami Sandwich, or BLT -- everything is vegan! Also enjoy vegan donuts!

··Loving Heart

838 W. Montrose Ave., Chicago, IL 60613

(773) 561-5399

Vegan/natural foods. It is clear that a little bit of love is a key ingredient in all of Loving Heart’s fresh and wholesome dishes. Fresh veggies and herbs are a staple in their salads, wraps, and noodle bowls. Try the Green Deva salad with a host of vegetables, roasted peanuts, parsley, and a special ginger pesto. If you haven’t gotten your fill, check out their selection of raw cakes.

··Majani Restaurant

7167 S. Exchange Ave., Chicago, IL 60649

773-359-4019

One Eleven Food Hall, 756 E. 111th, Chicago, IL 60628

773-840-3491

Vegan/soul food. Enjoy vegan soulfood dishes including a Po Boy sandwich, black eyed pea burger, and black eyed pea tacos.

··Mindful Baking Café

1942 W. Montrose Ave., Chicago, IL 60613

773-216-3981

Vegan/bakery. Mindful Baking arose out of a personal health challenge. Pastry chef, Diane Mejia was diagnosed with severe gluten intolerance. With a goal of providing delicious healthy food and packaging that’s 100% biodegradable and recyclable, their apt motto is: “Peace of mind? Peace of cake!” All products are gluten free and vegan. Besides tried and true old favorites, Mindful Baking offers sheet cakes and round cakes in serendipitous base flavors like “Hey Amy” –Chocolate infused with pomegranate, and Banana with Salted Caramel. Watch for special monthly flavors too. Past monthly flavors include Rainbow Cake and Oreo Grenache. If you’re craving something savory, you may select from three hot sandwiches: Vegan Tuna, Breakfast Sammie and see a mouthwatering photo of the Avocado Toast on Instagram. Heaped with colorful veggies and texture, it seems to celebrate abundance. For a sweet treat, check out their Facebook page or Instagram photos of swirled cupcakes, festive, silky glazed donuts, brownies, and more.

··Native Foods

1484 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, IL 60622

(773) 489-8480

1023 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago, IL 60657

(773) 549-4904

218 S. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60604

(312) 332-6332

Vegan/natural foods/organic. Enjoy vegan dishes such as Spicy Cauliflower Dippers, BBQ Brisket Burger, Buddha Bowl, Chicken, Bacon, Avo Club, Meatball Sub, and Taco Salad. They also offer sides including steamed kale and sweet potato fries. And of course, there's dessert options including Oatmeal Crème Pie, Peanut Butter Parfait, and Chocolate Chip Cookie. The location on East Harper is behind Hyatt Place Hotel at Harper Court.

Old Jerusalem Restaurant

1411 N. Wells St., Chicago, IL 60610

(312) 944-0459

Middle Eastern. For over 30 years, Old Jerusalem has been serving Middle Eastern favorites from falafel and hummus to baba ghanouj and tabbouleh. There is a vegetarian section on the menu with appetizers and entrées available.

··Penelope's Vegan Taqueria

5204 North Clark St., Chicago, IL 60640

773-754-7192

230 West Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL 60654

312-265-0400

Vegan/Mexican. Every part of these taquerias has been chosen with love by the family who owns them (and named them for their daughter), from the bright bird murals by artist Senkoe and lively Mexican playlist, to the constantly evolving, innovative menu that aims to recreate the flavors from their childhood. Featuring vegan versions of classics like burritos, enchiladas, elote, nachos, dips, chilaquiles, fries, etc., and with tacos such as mushroom chimichurri, soy al pastor with pineapple, baja with fried beer batter avocado and habanero mango pico de gallo, alongside a broad range of drinks both non-alcoholic (such as several colorful horchata options, kombucha and Jarrito sodas) and alcoholic (including margaritas, beers, and cocktails), there is something for everyone to enjoy.

··Planta Queen

413 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60654

630-691-7238

Vegan. Enjoy sushi, dumplings, wok and noodles, and chilled and raw, small plates. Sample items: Queen Caesar (green papaya, kale, mushroom bacon, almond parmesan, yuba crisp); Chili Peanut Noodles (hearts of palm, jackfruit, bok choy, sesame, doubanjiang sauce, cilantro); and Avocado Lime Tartare (beetroot tuna, pine nuts, capers, citrus soy, sesame, cilantro, taro chips).

·Quesadilla La Reina Del Sur

2237 N. Western Ave., Chicago, IL 60647

(773) 235-8807

Vegetarian. This traditional Mexican restaurant serves a vegetarian menu with a wide variety of veggie and soy-based “meat” dishes. Many of the dishes can be made vegan by substituting vegan cheese or “tofu scramble” instead of egg. There are a number of fun vegan desserts available such as the Tofu Cheesecake and the Platanos Maduros (fried plantains with vegan cream). Online ordering available through the restaurant website.

Reza's Restaurant

5255 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60640

(773) 561-1898

Persian. There are more than 20 clearly listed vegetarian appetizers at Reza's, including Vegetable Casserole, Roasted Zucchini in Tomato Sauce, and Eggplant Steak. Vegetarian platters are also served, as well as six different veggie combination lunches. Reza's also offers an elegant 20s style décor, outdoor seating when weather permits, and a seated bar.

··Runaway Cow

608 W. 31st St., Chicago, IL 60616

312-846-1626

Vegan/ice cream parlor. Runaway Cow offers plant-based ice cream made from oat milk. The menu features soft-serve cones, malt milkshakes, and ice cream cakes. The soft-serve ice cream is available in chocolate, vanilla, and twist as well as rotating seasonal flavors. Snowstorm flavors on the menu are blended with vegan cookies and candies such as Biscoff, peanut butter crunch, cake batter, and cookie dough. Sundaes include classics such as banana split as well as specialty flavors like German chocolate with caramel and coconut, turtle with fudge and caramel, and Elvis with banana slices and peanut butter.

Russian Tea Time

77 E. Adams St., Chicago, IL 60604

(312) 360-0000

Russian. This elegant, upscale Russian restaurant offers unmatched hospitality and a good selection of vegetarian and vegan options. Several traditional vegetarian appetizers and entrées are clearly marked on the menu, including dishes like potato pancakes, grilled portobello mushrooms, Baked Eggplant stuffed with sautéed vegetables, Mung Bean and Vegetable Stew, stuffed green bell peppers, and many others.

·Soul Veg City

205 E. 75th St., Chicago, IL 60619

(773) 224-0104

Vegetarian/soul food. Various ethnic dishes are featured at Soul Veg City, including African, Middle Eastern, and American fare. Examples include Vegetarian Ribs, Tofu Fish, Sunflower-Seed Burger, and Split Pea and Chickenless Noodle Soup. Except for the occasional use of honey, the dishes are vegan.

Star of Siam

11 E. Illinois St., Chicago, IL 60611

(312) 670-0100

Thai. All dishes can be prepared without meat or with tofu or veggie substitutes.

··Sundrip

Fulton Market, 210 N. Carpenter St., Unit 140, Chicago, IL 60607

(312) 315-5552

Vegan/raw foods. Sundrip is a grab-and-go restaurant that offers a range of raw plant-based juices, smoothies, bowls, noodle dishes, salads, and soup. They also have cake cups for dessert.

··Sweet Vegan Bakes

409 W. North Ave., Chicago, IL 60610

877-793-3884

Vegan/bakery. Sweet Vegan Bakes is a plant-based dessert and gluten-free bakery. Wraps, sandwiches, cupcakes, and cookies are among the items on the menu. A part of the shop's revenues is contributed to local community groups. The location is ideal; it is only around the corner on North Ave from the Brown Line's Sedgwick stop.

··The Black Vegan

2300 S Kedzie Ave., Chicago, IL 60623

773-639-0896

Vegan. Be prepared to get saucy at The Black Vegan restaurant. Enjoy their Italian beef with fries or the New 290 burger. You can order mushrooms directly from them but why not also try their fried oyster shrimp meal. Drink of choice is the cranberry and jackfruit drink combined to make a fruity mango flavorful experience.

·Udupi Palace

2543 W. Devon Ave., Chicago, IL 60659

(773) 338-2152

Vegetarian/Indian. Udupi Palace features traditional southern Indian cuisine. They recommend the Masala Dosa as the "most popular item," but they also feature vegetarian appetizers, breads, soups curries, rice specialties, and entrées. Udupi Palace is closed between lunch and dinner, so please call ahead for hours.

··Urban Vegan Chicago

1601-1603 W. Montrose Ave., Chicago, IL 60613

(773) 404-1109

Vegan/Thai. Urban Vegan serves an extensive menu of entirely vegan Thai cuisine. They provide many different dishes such as banana spring rolls, Hawaiian puffs, red chili dumplings, papaya salad, panang curry, and so much more.

·Uru Swati

2629 W. Devon Ave., Chicago, IL 60659

(773) 262-5280

Vegetarian/Indian. Uru Swati offers authentic Indian cuisine in a not-so-traditional space. 3D sky scrapers decorate the walls of this unique restaurant. Want to keep things funky? Order the Paper Masala Dosa. This lentil and rice crepe is easily as long as your arm and is paired with deliciously spiced potatoes.

··Vaca's Creamery

1436 W. Blackhawk St., Chicago, IL 60642

2324 W. Giddings St., Chicago, IL 60625

Vegan/ice cream parlor. Vaca’s Creamery is an all-vegan ice cream parlor. They have a variety of options such as ice cream, handshakes, drinks, various toppings, and sundaes. Some flavors that they have are Vanilla, Chocolate, Strawberry, Chocolate cake. Dulce de leche. They are located near the North Branch Chicago River.

··Vegan Now 2 Go

1536 E. 75th St., Chicago, IL 60619

773-224-0104

Vegan. South Shore restaurant that offers a variety of vegan comfort food and desserts. Some menu options include fresh burgers, sandwiches, panini, fries, and rich-tasting dairy-free milkshakes. Their mini hot bar is stocked with rib tips, kale greens, mac and cheese, and other soul food classics. Don't miss their prepared full meals for one, two, or your whole family that you can grab and go from their coolers.

··Vegan Now!

The French Market, 131 N. Clinton St., Chicago, IL 60661

(312) 575-0306

Vegan/soul food. Located in the French Market, Vegan Now offers soul food dishes including greens, jerk bites, BBQ tofu, mac n' cheese, and more.

··Vegan Plate

1550 W. Fullerton Ave., Chicago, IL 60614

773-472-8208

1550 W. Fullerton Ave., Chicago, IL 60614

(773) 472-8208

Vegan/Thai. Vegan Plate offers an extensive all-vegan menu of Thai cuisine along with some American favorites. Enjoy such dishes as Yellow Curry, Papaya Salad, Pad Thai, Miso Soup, or Tofu Satay. Make sure to try their daily lunch or dinner combinations for a lot of food at a great price. Also, enjoy dessert options such as Tofu Cheese Cake and Banana Spring Rolls.

··Vegan World Café

5419 W. North Ave., Chicago, IL 60639

Vegan/café. The head chef at Vegan World Café has over 20 years of experience cooking vegan food. They source their ingredients from local farmers’ markets to ensure customers fresh food. Enjoy soups, burgers, sandwiches, tacos, and more. They offer special holiday menus, options for kids, and also serve breakfast all day long.

·Veggie House

2109 South China Pl., Chicago, IL 60616

312-326-9966

Vegetarian/Chinese. Located in Chinatown Square, Veggie House offers beautifully presented dishes mostly based on a long tradition of vegan-friendly food in Chinese culture. Offerings include meals based around plant-based versions of ham, beef, chicken, shrimp and lobster, in addition to seemingly endless tofu options (including orange tofu, mapo tofu, and Thai crispy tofu) and mushroom varieties, with soups, dumplings, fried vegetables, noodles etc. — in addition to sushi.

locations

Evanston

§Blind Faith Café

525 Dempster St., Evanston, IL 60201

(847) 328-6875

International. The Chicago area is fortunate to benefit from this fantastic restaurant. Service is excellent, and the food is always delicious. Vegans can enjoy several seitan dishes, including a terrific barbecue sandwich, noodle-based dishes with tofu, plus much more. Be sure to sample their vegan chocolate cake! Please note that the cheeses in the Pasta Rapini dish contain animal rennet.

··Cinnaholic

1596 Sherman Ave., Evanston, IL 60201

847-425-0239

Vegan/bakery. Enjoy a wide variety of frostings and toppings on delicious vegan cinnamon buns. They also offer cookies, brownies, mini-cinnamon buns, and cinnacakes.

··Elephant + Vine

719 Church St., Evanston, IL 60201

847-586-0223

Vegan. This fast casual restaurant serves delicious, plant forward food including rice bowls, BBQ shroom bowl, buffalo chik’n sandwich, katuna wrap, cauli-wings, salads, shakes, lemonade, smoothies, and much more.

··Soli Grill

1709 Benson Ave., Evanston, IL 60201

847-868-8704

Vegan. Lunch and dinner options include appetizers such as Poached Pear Flatbread (poached pear, vegan gorgonzola cheese, candied walnuts, arugula, and balsamic vinegar), salads, soups, sushi, tacos, sandwiches, wraps, and a number of dinner entrées such as Scallops and Chorizo (seared vegan scallops, spicy vegan chorizo, cauliflower purée, lemongrass cream sauce, and grilled asparagus) and Chicken Marsala Cassoulet (vegan chicken, marsala wine, Portobello and cremini mushrooms, and mashed potatoes). Features coffee, tea, sodas and mocktails, as well as several dessert options such as Vegan Chocolate Cake and Apple Tarte. Weekend brunch items include pancakes, waffles, French toast, and more. They also have a kid's menu.

locations

Flossmoor

··Karyn's Kitchen

Flossmoor Commons, 3331 Vollmer Rd., Flossmoor, IL 60422

312-255-1590

Vegan/American. Karyn’s Kitchen is a plant-based restaurant that serves pizzas, sandwiches, and soups. Pizzas include the meat lover’s made with plant-based meat and the veggie pizza made with hummus, mushrooms, and artichoke hearts. Potato wedges and soup are included with the meatball sub, falafel sandwich, and other sandwiches. The black bean soup is served with shredded jackfruit and coleslaw. Chef’s specials such as vegan mac & cheese are also available.

locations

Galesburg

Cornucopia Natural Food

176 S. Seminary St., Galesburg, IL 61401

(309) 342-3111

Natural foods store/deli. Cornucopia is a natural foods store in the small community of Galesburg. They offer sandwiches, salads, and soups in their deli, many of which are vegetarian and/or vegan. The sandwiches are made on the fresh made-in-house breads and are a great value.

locations

Highland Park

··Madame Zuzu's

1876 First St., Highland Park, IL 60035

(847) 926-7359

Vegan café. Madame Zuzu’s serves a wide variety of vegan options, from kale power salads to miso tofu bowls. They even provide a kids menu with vegan mac and cheese and almond butter jelly sandwiches, plus desserts! Most importantly, Madame Zuzu’s is known for its menu of teas and other beverages. They make their own, homemade loose leaf teas. One of their most bought teas is the Madame Zuzu’s Tropical Fruit Medley (herbal) tea, which is a blend of Spanish cantaloupe, honeydew, pineapple, hibiscus, Seville orange. They uniquely whip up mushroom coffees.

locations

La Grange

Kama Indian Bistro

9 S. La Grange Rd., La Grange, IL 60525

(708) 352-3300

Indian. Kama Indian Bistro has over 25 vegetarian and vegan items. From appetizers and soups to breads and entrées, vegan dishes include Eggplant Bharta, Okra do Piazza, and Yellow Dal. The menu notes what is vegetarian, vegan, or can be made vegan. They also offer 50 gluten-free items.

locations

Lisle

··Manna Kitchen

2801 N. Ogden Ave., Ste. 8-9, Lisle, IL 60532

(630) 536-8328

Vegan. Located in the western suburbs of Chicago, Manna Kitchen offers appetizers such as Cauliflower Buffalo Wings and Crispy "Crab" Cakes. Salad options include Rainbow Quinoa Salad and a Crunch Taco Salad. They also serve a wide variety of bowls along with entrée options such as Schnitzel Platter, Creamy Mac n' Cheez, and their own Manna Burger. End your meal with one of their yummy desserts.

locations

Lockport

··Vegan Café

928 S. State St., Lockport, IL 60441

(815) 838-4626

Vegan/raw foods. Vegan Café is a raw vegan, organic, and gluten-free cafe. It also has its own health food store next door, Healthy Sins Inc. It offers a variety of appetizers such as guacamole and corn chips, pizza bites, and a sample platter. They also offer salads, zucchini noodle pasta, sloppy joes, lasagna, burgers, steak burritos, and pad Thai. Desserts include macaroons, brownies, and pie.

locations

MacHesney Park

··Pig Minds Brewing Co.

4080 Steele Dr., MacHesney Park, IL 61115

(779) 423-2147

Vegan/bar. Pig Minds Brewing Co. is an entirely vegan bar, brewery, and restaurant. With appetizers, salads, sandwiches, sides, vegan burgers, tacos, and desserts, you’ll never go hungry here. For drinks, they offer wines, sodas, and beer. Pig Minds Brewing Co. also has live bands perform and organizes activities such as Thursday Trivia. Whatever mood you’re in, there’s a meal for you, be it fresh cut fries, a soy buffalo wrap, or a pumpkin carrot cupcake!

locations

Moline

Le Mekong Restaurant

1606 5th Ave., Moline, IL 61265

(309) 797-8660

Vietnamese. Traditional curry dishes, tofu, and mock meats are featured in the vegetarian menu section.

locations

Naperville

·Honest Restaurant

1568 Ogden Ave, Naperville, IL 60540

847-594-4199

Vegetarian/Indian. At Honest Restaurant you will find authentic Indian cuisine. They started as a family street cart based in Ahmedabad. You can now find them in Canada and various locations in the United States. All dishes are cooked to order, and you’ll never find frozen or processed foods here! Samosas, dosas, vegetable dal, and rice dishes are all great options to try! If you’re vegan, ask if the food is cooked with ghee, cheese, or yogurt, and if it can be prepared without them. You will also find interesting menu items such as pizza, sandwiches, and Indian Chinese dishes.

··The Vegan Bar

931 W. 75th St. #169, Naperville, IL 60540

312-619-8128

Vegan/bar. If you’re looking for a quick and delicious vegan meal, look no further than Vegan Bar. Vegan Bar has the perfect combination of healthy and comfort foods. For Breakfast, they offer avocado toast, delicious breakfast sandwiches, vegan chicken' and waffles, and a plethora of vegan oatmeal options, including chocolate and peanut butter oatmeal. For lunch or dinner, try Vegan Bar’s “cheeseburger” with salty fries, vegan hot dogs and chicken tenders, vegan nacho supreme.

locations

Niles

·Honest Restaurant

8351 W. Golf Rd., Unit A, Niles, IL 60714

847-594-4117

Vegetarian/Indian. At Honest Restaurant you will find authentic Indian cuisine. They started as a family street cart based in Ahmedabad. You can now find them in Canada and various locations in the United States. All dishes are cooked to order, and you’ll never find frozen or processed foods here! Samosas, dosas, vegetable dal, and rice dishes are all great options to try! If you’re vegan, ask if the food is cooked with ghee, cheese, or yogurt, and if it can be prepared without them. You will also find interesting menu items such as pizza, sandwiches, and Indian Chinese dishes.

locations

Normal

·The Coffeehouse and Deli

114 E. Beaufort St., Normal, IL 61761

(309) 452-6774

Vegetarian/coffeehouse/deli. The Coffeehouse and Deli is completely vegetarian with many vegan options. Breakfast is served all day. Try vegan selections like the Falafel Pita Pocket or Spicy Tofu Sandwich. The Coffeehouse hosts live music and other events. Free Wi-Fi is available.

locations

Norridge

Boon Café

7543 W. Montrose Ave., Norridge, IL 60706

708-695-9125

Middle Eastern. Boon Café is a Middle Eastern restaurant that has a separate vegan menu that includes a variety of appetizers, main dishes, and sides. Boon sauce is served with several appetizers and sides such as loaded nachos and McClucker French fries topped with vegan mac and cheese. Traditional Middle Eastern entrees include Mjadra lentils cooked in Arabic spices and Kefta Po-Boy with vegan ground meat. The vegan menu also includes burgers such as pulled BBQ mushroom burger with in-house marinade and Chapli seasoned with Indian spices. Vegetarian items can be made vegan by substituting vegan cheese and sauce.

locations

Oak Brook

Reza's Restaurant

40 N. Tower Rd., Oak Brook, IL 60523

(630) 424-9900

Persian. See description under Chicago, IL.

locations

Oak Park

Khyber Pass

1031 Lake St., Oak Park, IL 60301

(708) 445-9032

Indian. Enjoy classical Indian music as you dine on a wide variety of dishes, including spicy vegetable dishes, garbanzo beans and potatoes, vegetable rice dishes, and more.

·Munch

104 N. Marion St., Oak Park, IL 60301

(708) 848-4226

Vegetarian/American. Located in downtown Oak Park, Munch is a vegetarian café specializing in grab-n-go food. There are many vegan and gluten-free items. Try the Vegetable Lasagna or Coconut Yams. Outdoor seating is available. Cash only.

locations

Orland Park

··Vegan T’ease

14600 S. La Grange Rd., Orland Park, IL 60462

773-418-7469

Vegan. Vegan T’ease has great vegan options including gyros, fajitas, stuffed burgers, and even homemade vegan tomato soup. You can order cauliflower wings in hot wing sauce, their prize-winning vegan baileys faye bbq sauce, Miami tropical sauce, lemon pepper sauce, or just plain. They also serve gluten-free options as well.

locations

Palos Heights

··Meeks Vegan Kitchen

12778 S. Harlem Ave., Palos Heights, IL 60463

708-608-8310

Vegan. Appetizers include Stuffed Peppers (5 mini bell peppers stuffed with rice, Beyond Sausage, Impossible Meat, Mushrooms, Vegan Cashew Cheese, and Meeks Secret Seasonings). Several vegan pizza options including The Top Shotta Vegan Pizza (Plant-Based Jerk Chickn, banana peppers, red and green bell peppers with a BBQ sauce base with vegan cashew cheese); 7 Vegan Burritos; 16 Vegan Sandwiches including Tone’s Ultimate Vegan Philly (toasted French roll with lionsmane mushroom, oyster mushrooms, green peppers, onions, vegan mayo, and vegan cheese); 5 vegan wraps; 5 salads; sides including guacamole, salsa, and chips; as well as several desserts.

locations

Peoria

(For restaurant listings in the surrounding areas, see Peoria Heights.)

·One World Coffee and Cargo

1245 W. Main St., Peoria, IL 61606

(309) 672-1522

Vegetarian/coffeehouse. This restaurant's eclectic menu has vegetarian dishes marked with the symbol of the one Earth and vegan dishes with two. Enjoy music from a live band, poetry, or theater--depending on when you're there--and be sure to check out the international gift shop.

··Riley's Vegan Sweets and Eats

1233 W. Brons Ave., Peoria, IL 61604

(309) 688-5990

Vegan/bakery. Birthday Cakes, donuts, brownies, cookies, cinnamon rolls, Oh my! Whether you’re looking to satisfy your sweet tooth or bite into a dessert that tastes as good as it looks, Riley’s Sweets and Eats has you covered. Their cruelty-free treats are made from scratch with organic ingredients.

locations

Rock Island

··Healthy Harvest Urban Farms

1616 2nd Ave., Rock Island, IL 61201

(309) 235-1330

Vegan/organic. Healthy Harvest Urban Farms has classic menu items such as a vegan BLT, Chili, and wraps. They offer specialty sandwiches like the smashed bean and avocado sandwich. Their menu is seasonal so be sure to check their Facebook for changes and updates.

locations

Rockford

Mary's Market

4431 E. State St., Rockford, IL 61108

(815) 397-7291

1659 N. Alpine St., Rockford, IL 61107

(815) 394-0765

2636 McFarland Rd., Rockford, IL 61108

(815) 986-3300

American. Enjoy several vegetarian dishes at this café, including raisin/walnut French toast for breakfast and salads, roasted vegetable focaccia, veggie burgers, grilled vegetables, pasta dishes, roasted portobello mushrooms, and more.

locations

Schaumburg

·Honest Restaurant

835 Higgins Rd., Schaumburg, IL 60195

(847) 594-4145

Vegetarian/Indian. At Honest Restaurant you will find authentic Indian cuisine. They started as a family street cart based in Ahmedabad. You can now find them in Canada and various locations in the United States. All dishes are cooked to order, and you’ll never find frozen or processed foods here! Samosas, dosas, vegetable dal, and rice dishes are all great options to try! If you’re vegan, ask if the food is cooked with ghee, cheese, or yogurt, and if it can be prepared without them. You will also find interesting menu items such as pizza, sandwiches, and Indian Chinese dishes.

·Maoz Vegetarian

Woodfield Mall, 5 Woodfield Mall, Schaumburg, IL 60173

(847) 796-0430

Vegetarian. See description under Rosemont, IL entry.

·Udupi Palace

730 E. Schaumburg Rd., Schaumburg, IL 60194

(847) 884-9510

Vegetarian/Indian. See description under Chicago, IL.

locations

South Holland

··Daisy's Catering Café

253 W. 162nd St., South Holland, IL 60473

(708) 566-2648

Vegan/raw foods/café/juice bar. Unity Café features a wide variety of appetizers including BBQ Tips and Sweet Potato Frids. They also offer wraps and sandwiches such as Jerk Tofu and Falafel, as well as tacos. The café is near the neighborhood of Harvey.

locations

Urbana

Strawberry Fields

306 W. Springfield, Urbana, IL 61801

(217) 328-1655

Natural foods store. This natural foods store has a café, deli, bakery, and an in-house nutritionist. You can easily make a meal out of their vegetarian chili, soup, salad, sandwich, calzone, pizza, quiche, and other choices.

··The Red Herring

1209 W. Oregon St., Urbana, IL 61801

(217) 367-2340

Vegan/café/eclectic. The Red Herring is a vegan restaurant and coffeehouse located in the basement of a building on the campus of the University of Illinois. They are a part of the Channing Murray Foundation, a non-profit organization. All foods are made from scratch, and organic ingredients are used when possible. The menu features international dishes and homemade baked goods. They serve their own fair trade, organic coffee and have Wi-Fi. Come and volunteer for an hour for a free meal. They sometimes have extended hours when the University is in session so call ahead. Cash only.

locations

Westmont

·Apple Valley Natural Foods

27 E. Chicago Ave., Westmont, IL 60559

(630) 789-2270

Vegetarian/natural foods store. Apple Valley Natural Foods is a completely vegetarian natural foods store. Enjoy their hot food bar, deli, and salad bar. They are located in St. James Crossing Plaza.

·Shree Restaurant

655 N. Cass Ave., Westmont, IL 60559

(630) 655-1021

Vegetarian/Indian. A varied and extensive menu of well-prepared Indian foods is served in a friendly atmosphere. Incense and Indian music enhance the dining experience. Shree is closed between lunch and dinner, so please call ahead for hours.

locations

Winnetka

··Spirit Elephant

924 Green Bay Rd., Winnetka, IL 60093

(847) 348-9000

Vegan. Vegetables take center stage here and delicious dishes serve them in a whole new light. A large wine list and fresh ingredients along with a creative menu make Spirit Elephant a great spot for a cozy evening of plant-based eating. From fig flatbread to French fries you’ll find something for everyone in the family. The kids menu features favorites like burgers and mac and cheese and the more adventurous visitors will enjoy the Pistachio-Crusted Tofu, Crabless Cakes, Beet Carpaccio, and don’t forget to try a visitor favorite- the Cauli-Wings with Buffalo or Wasabi-Dijon sauce.

locations

Woodstock

·Expressly Leslie Vegetarian Specialties

110 S. Johnson St., Woodstock, IL 60098

(815) 338-2833

Vegetarian/Mediterranean. Expressly Leslie Vegetarian Specialties serves vegetarian food with a Mediterranean flair. Enjoy falafel, pita pocket sandwiches, hummus, salads, soups, and sampler plates. Many items are vegan and are noted as such on the menu. Prices are great and daily specials are offered as well.

locations

Bestsellers from
The VRG Catalog:

	Vegan Seafood: Beyond the Fish Shtick for Vegetarians
	Simply Vegan
	Vegans Know How to Party
	Meatless Meals for Working People
	Vegan Menu for People With Diabetes
	Vegan Meals for One or Two
	Conveniently Vegan

Join The VRG with via our donation form, and receive the Vegetarian Journal for one year and a copy of Meatless Meals for Working People: Quick and Easy Vegetarian Recipes!