Explore the dynamic landscape of Chicago’s vibrant plant-based dining scene with us. From innovative vegan taquerias to award-winning restaurants crafting eco-conscious meals, join us in savoring the flavors of sustainability and creativity showcased across the city’s diverse eateries.
Penelope’s Vegan Taqueria
Penelope’s is Chicago’s first plant-based taqueria, specializing in vegan interpretations of authentic Mexican cuisine. Dishes can be paired with a variety of Mexican beers, tequilas, mezcals, cocktails and horchata agua frescas.
Spirit Elephant
Winnetka’s award-winning Spirit Elephant aims to serve familiar favorites made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. From bacon made of mushrooms to miso cod from eggplant, you will get a unique experience and a delicious meal that also benefits the health of the planet.
Elephant + Vine
With restaurants in Lincoln Park and Evanston, Elephant + Vine is a fast-casual concept from the people behind Spirit Elephant. Its offerings include burgers made with your choice of black bean patty or Impossible beef, chik’n sandwiches, salads and wraps, plus a variety of shakes and fruit smoothies.
Indienne
Featuring progressive Indian cuisine, River North’s Indienne has been named one of the best new restaurants by Esquire, Robb Report, Bon Appetit and Yelp, andwas the first Indian restaurant in the Chicago area to receive a Michelin Star. Indienne offers vegetarian and non-vegetarian six-course tasting menus, with a vegan option available with 48 hours advance notice.
The Goddess and Grocer
A local deli, sandwich shop, and bakery chain, The Goddess and Grocer was started in 2005 by Debbie Sharpe after years as a caterer for some of the biggest stars of the music industry, including Paul McCartney and the Rolling Stones. Try her roasted vegetable and grain bowl or the garden goddess wrap at outlets in the Gold Coast, Fulton Market, Bucktown or O’Hare Airport.
PLANTA Queen
Located in River North, PLANTA Queen is loved for its bang bang broccoli, and for serving some of the best vegan sushi and Asian stir-frys in the city. The restaurant boasts of its commitment to locally sourced produce and eco-friendly to-go containers.
XMarket Food Hall
XMarket opened its food hall inside its Uptown vegan grocery in the fall of 2023. There are currently seven vendors at XMarket, including the sandwich-focused Kale My Name and Chicago Not Dogs, which offers vegan takes on local street food.