Quick answer
Chicago's vegan dining scene has exploded, transforming the Windy City into an unexpected haven for plant-based food lovers seeking everything from classic comfort food to avant-garde culinary experiences. Forget any old notions of limited options; Chicago now boasts a dynamic and diverse array of vegan eateries that cater to every craving and occasion, proving that 'meat-free' certainly doesn't mean 'flavor-free'.
- Best overall
- The Chicago Diner
- Top pick
- The Chicago Diner
Top verdicts
- The Chicago Diner: Anyone looking for a dependable, satisfying meal of classic American comfort food, perfect for brunch or a casual dinner with friends.
- Handlebar: Brunch enthusiasts and those seeking creative, hearty vegan meals in a laid-back, friendly atmosphere with a great beer selection.
- Bloom Plant Based Kitchen: Foodies seeking a sophisticated, innovative plant-based dining experience for a date night or a celebration.
Historically, Chicago was known for its deep-dish pizza and hearty steakhouses, making the rise of its vegan culture particularly noteworthy. Over the past decade, driven by increasing demand for healthier, more ethical, and sustainable dining, chefs and restaurateurs have embraced plant-based cuisine with open arms, integrating it seamlessly into the city's rich food landscape.
Today, you can find an incredible spectrum of vegan delights, from cozy diners serving up nostalgic American classics and vibrant Pan-Asian fusion spots, to sophisticated New American kitchens pushing the boundaries of plant-based gastronomy. Whether you're after a quick, satisfying bite, a leisurely brunch, or an elegant dinner, Chicago has a vegan restaurant to match your mood and palate.
Area map
All 10 spots at a glance
| # | Name | Style | Price | Area |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Chicago Diner | American Diner | mid | Lakeview |
| 2 | Handlebar | American | mid | Wicker Park |
| 3 | Bloom Plant Based Kitchen | New American | upscale | Wicker Park |
| 4 | Planta Queen | Pan-Asian | upscale | River North |
| 5 | Can't Believe It's Not Meat | Vegan Soul Food | budget | Hyde Park |
| 6 | Paulie Gee's Logan Square | Pizza | mid | Logan Square |
| 7 | Fancy's | American | mid | Lakeview |
| 8 | Kitchen 17 | American | mid | Lakeview |
| 9 | Vegan Plate | Thai | budget | Uptown |
| 10 | Urban Vegan | Thai | budget | Lincoln Park |
1The Chicago Diner
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Anyone looking for a dependable, satisfying meal of classic American comfort food, perfect for brunch or a casual dinner with friends.
- Strengths
- Lakeview
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- An enduring Chicago institution, The Chicago Diner has been 'Meat Free Since '83,' delighting vegans and omnivores alike with its extensive menu of plant-based comfort food classics. From towering burgers to hearty breakfast platters, it's a nostalgic and satisfying experience.
- What to order
- The Radical Reuben sandwich, a hearty and flavorful twist on the classic, or the award-winning vegan milkshakes.
🕐 Opening hours
2Handlebar
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Brunch enthusiasts and those seeking creative, hearty vegan meals in a laid-back, friendly atmosphere with a great beer selection.
- Strengths
- Wicker Park
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Handlebar is a beloved Wicker Park fixture known for its eclectic menu of vegetarian and vegan comfort food, with a focus on fresh, often locally sourced ingredients. It's a cozy spot perfect for a relaxed brunch or a hearty dinner in a casual, art-filled setting.
- What to order
- The Fried Avocado Sandwich or the Huevos Rancheros (vegan version available) for a truly satisfying meal.
🕐 Opening hours
3Bloom Plant Based Kitchen
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Foodies seeking a sophisticated, innovative plant-based dining experience for a date night or a celebration.
- Strengths
- Wicker Park
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Bloom offers an elevated plant-based dining experience, showcasing innovative dishes crafted from fresh, seasonal ingredients with global influences. The sophisticated ambiance and artful presentation make it a perfect choice for a special occasion or a refined culinary adventure.
- What to order
- Their Mushroom 'Scallops' are a standout, or any of their seasonal pasta dishes which are always creative.
🕐 Opening hours
4Planta Queen
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Those looking for a trendy, upscale vegan dining experience with creative Pan-Asian cuisine and an energetic atmosphere.
- Strengths
- River North
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Planta Queen brings a chic, vibrant energy to River North with its entirely plant-based Pan-Asian menu. From inventive sushi rolls and dim sum to flavorful noodle dishes, it’s a stylish destination perfect for a lively night out.
- What to order
- The Spicy Kimchi Fried Rice or any of their unique sushi rolls like the Dragon Roll.
🕐 Opening hours
5Can't Believe It's Not Meat
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Anyone craving delicious, affordable, and indulgent vegan comfort food with a unique soul food flair.
- Strengths
- Hyde Park
- Price / value
- $
- Why it made the list
- This vibrant spot takes classic soul food and comfort dishes and reimagines them with a plant-based twist. Expect hearty burgers, satisfying 'steak' sandwiches, and delicious sides that will make you truly 'Can't Believe It's Not Meat'.
- What to order
- The Philly Cheesesteak or the Big Mick, served with a side of their perfectly seasoned fries.
🕐 Opening hours
6Paulie Gee's Logan Square
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Pizza aficionados and groups where some are vegan and others aren't, as their vegan options are incredible.
- Strengths
- Logan Square
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- While not exclusively vegan, Paulie Gee's Logan Square offers an exceptional and extensive menu of plant-based pizzas, often regarded as some of the best in the city. Their creative topping combinations and perfectly blistered crusts make it a must-visit for pizza lovers.
- What to order
- The 'Vegan Mortadella' or 'Hellboy Vegan' (with spicy maple syrup) are fan favorites and incredibly unique.
🕐 Opening hours
7Fancy's
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Families and friends looking for upscale casual vegan comfort food, especially if you love burgers and milkshakes.
- Strengths
- Lakeview
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Fancy's is a modern, stylish vegan diner that specializes in elevated comfort food, with a particular emphasis on creative burgers, hearty sandwiches, and delightful milkshakes. It's a fun and approachable spot for satisfying plant-based indulgence.
- What to order
- The Fancy's Double Smashburger with a side of loaded fries and a vegan shake.
🕐 Opening hours
8Kitchen 17
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Visitors wanting to try a vegan deep-dish pizza experience, or groups looking for a casual BYOB dinner with a wide menu.
- Strengths
- Lakeview
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Kitchen 17 is celebrated for its incredible vegan deep-dish pizza, a true Chicago rarity, alongside a diverse menu of comforting American classics. This BYOB spot offers a relaxed and friendly atmosphere for enjoying hearty plant-based fare.
- What to order
- The vegan deep-dish pizza (allow extra time for preparation) or their loaded nachos.
🕐 Opening hours
9Vegan Plate
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Anyone craving authentic and delicious vegan Thai food in a casual, unpretentious setting.
- Strengths
- Uptown
- Price / value
- $
- Why it made the list
- Vegan Plate is a reliable and beloved spot in Uptown offering an extensive menu of flavorful Thai and Pan-Asian dishes, all entirely plant-based. It's known for its generous portions, fresh ingredients, and consistent quality.
- What to order
- Their Panang Curry or the Drunken Noodles, both customizable with various plant-based proteins.
🕐 Opening hours
10Urban Vegan
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Students and locals in Lincoln Park looking for reliable, delicious, and budget-friendly vegan Asian cuisine.
- Strengths
- Lincoln Park
- Price / value
- $
- Why it made the list
- A sister restaurant to Vegan Plate, Urban Vegan in Lincoln Park delivers a similar commitment to flavorful, all-vegan Pan-Asian cuisine with a focus on Thai and Vietnamese influences. It's a casual and welcoming spot for satisfying stir-fries, noodle dishes, and curries.
- What to order
- The Pad See Ew or the Tom Yum Soup, both packed with authentic flavors.
🕐 Opening hours
Frequently asked questions
Are Chicago's vegan restaurants generally affordable?
Chicago offers a wide spectrum of vegan dining prices. You can find very affordable and filling meals at places like Can't Believe It's Not Meat or Vegan Plate, typically in the $15-$25 range. Mid-range options like The Chicago Diner and Handlebar usually run $20-$35, while upscale experiences at Bloom Plant Based Kitchen or Planta Queen can range from $35-$60+ per person, offering something for every budget.
Do I need reservations for vegan restaurants in Chicago?
For more casual or budget-friendly spots, reservations are generally not required. However, for popular brunch destinations such as Handlebar or dinner at upscale venues like Bloom Plant Based Kitchen and Planta Queen, making a reservation is highly recommended, especially on weekends or for larger parties, to ensure you get a table without a long wait.
Are there good vegan options for Chicago's famous deep-dish pizza?
Absolutely! Kitchen 17 is a standout, offering a fantastic vegan deep-dish pizza that rivals its traditional counterparts. They use high-quality plant-based cheeses and toppings, providing an authentic Chicago experience for vegans that is often praised by locals and visitors alike.
Are vegan restaurants in Chicago kid-friendly?
Many vegan restaurants in Chicago are very kid-friendly, especially those with a casual, comfort-food focus like The Chicago Diner or Fancy's, which offer familiar dishes like burgers, fries, and shakes. Handlebar also has a relaxed atmosphere suitable for families. Upscale venues might be better suited for older children or special occasions.
What neighborhoods are best for finding vegan food in Chicago?
Wicker Park, Logan Square, and Lakeview are particularly strong neighborhoods for vegan dining, hosting a high concentration of excellent plant-based eateries, from casual cafes to upscale establishments. River North and Hyde Park also offer notable options, showcasing the city's diverse vegan landscape.
Are there any fully vegan bakeries or dessert spots in Chicago?
While not explicitly listed as full restaurants, many of the venues like The Chicago Diner offer fantastic vegan desserts, especially their famous milkshakes. For dedicated bakeries, check out spots like Liberation Kitchen or Mindful Baking, which specialize in delicious, all-vegan pastries, cakes, and other sweet treats throughout the city.
Can I find gluten-free vegan options at these restaurants?
Most of Chicago's vegan restaurants are very accommodating to dietary restrictions and often provide clearly marked gluten-free options on their menus. Bloom Plant Based Kitchen and Planta Queen, in particular, excel at offering a wide range of delicious gluten-free vegan dishes. Always inform your server about any allergies or dietary needs.
How do Chicago's vegan restaurants compare to other major cities?
Chicago's vegan scene is highly competitive and rapidly growing, offering a breadth of options that can easily stand alongside cities like Los Angeles, New York, or Portland. From innovative fine dining to hearty comfort food and diverse global cuisines, Chicago offers a comprehensive and high-quality plant-based culinary experience that continues to evolve and impress.