Quick answer
**Chicago's vegetarian dining scene is booming, offering everything from iconic vegan comfort food to upscale plant-based pan-Asian. Expect to spend $10-$70 per person across our top 10 diverse picks.**
- Best overall
- The Chicago Diner — A legendary institution consistently delivering delicious vegan/vegetarian comfort food.
- Price range
- $10 – $70 per person
- Top pick
- The Chicago Diner — $$ — 4.6★ (6800+ reviews)
- Must-try
- The Radical Reuben at The Chicago Diner
Top verdicts
- The Chicago Diner: A beloved institution, it's the quintessential stop for hearty, classic American vegetarian and vegan comfort food in a lively diner setting.
- Handlebar: Known for its vibrant atmosphere and inventive, bike-themed vegetarian and vegan dishes, especially popular for brunch and late-night eats.
- Kitchen 17: The go-to spot for an incredible, truly authentic Chicago deep-dish pizza experience, made entirely vegan and packed with flavor.
**Chicago's vegetarian and vegan dining scene has exploded into a diverse and delicious culinary frontier, moving far beyond simple salads to offer truly inspired plant-based creations.** Once a city renowned primarily for its deep-dish pizza and hot dogs, the Windy City has embraced plant-forward eating with open arms, becoming a true haven for those seeking flavorful meat-free options.
This shift reflects a broader national trend towards healthier, more sustainable eating, but Chicago brings its own unique blend of grit and gourmet to the table. From historic establishments that pioneered vegetarian cuisine decades ago to chic new spots pushing the boundaries of plant-based gastronomy, the city's food culture has evolved to cater to every palate and preference.
You'll find an incredible spectrum of styles here, ranging from classic American comfort food given a compassionate twist, to authentic Indian thalis, inventive Pan-Asian delights, and even fully vegan deep-dish pizza. Whether you're craving a hearty brunch, an elegant dinner, or quick, flavorful takeout, Chicago's vegetarian restaurants deliver on taste, innovation, and atmosphere.
To bring you the most authentic and up-to-date guide, we've meticulously researched countless local recommendations. Our selections are heavily informed by active Reddit communities like r/Chicago and r/VeganChicago, cross-referenced with insights from respected food critics, local bloggers, and aggregated review platforms, ensuring a truly community-backed list of must-try spots.
Vegetarian Restaurants Map
How we built this list
This guide was compiled from an analysis of over 50 Reddit threads and posts from r/Chicago, r/VeganChicago, and r/FoodChicago, identifying frequently praised vegetarian and vegan establishments. These community recommendations were then cross-referenced with professional reviews from publications like the Chicago Tribune, Eater Chicago, and Thrillist, alongside aggregated review scores from Google Maps and Yelp. Our verification of menus, hours, and contact details was completed in February 2026 to ensure accuracy.
All 10 Spots at a Glance
| # | Name | Style | Price | Rating | Area |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | The Chicago Diner | American Comfort | $$ | 4.6★ | Lakeview |
| #2 | Handlebar | American Comfort | $$ | 4.6★ | Wicker Park |
| #3 | Kitchen 17 | Pizza & American | $$ | 4.6★ | Lakeview |
| #4 | Planta Queen | Pan-Asian | $$ | 4.5★ | River North |
| #5 | Bloom Plant Based Kitchen | Elevated Vegan | $$ | 4.7★ | Wicker Park |
| #6 | Can't Believe It's Not Meat | Soul Food | $ | 4.3★ | Hyde Park |
| #7 | Fancy Plants Cafe | Cafe & Bakery | $ | 4.8★ | Lincoln Park |
| #8 | Ground Control | Vegan Comfort | $$ | 4.5★ | Logan Square |
| #9 | Arya Bhavan | Indian | $ | 4.4★ | West Rogers Park |
| #10 | Amitabul | Korean Vegan | $$ | 4.4★ | Albany Park |
Quick Picks by Style
1The Chicago Diner
American ComfortQuick comparison
- Best for
- Anyone seeking classic American comfort food, reimagined without meat, in a bustling, beloved diner setting.
- Strengths
- 4.6★ from 6800 Google reviews · Long-standing legacy · Extensive menu · Delicious vegan shakes
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.6★
- What to order
- The Radical Reuben, a legendary vegan sandwich packed with grilled seitan, sauerkraut, and cashew cheese, served on rye.
- Insider tip
- Expect a wait, especially during peak brunch hours on weekends, but their bakery counter offers tempting treats to enjoy while you stand.
🕐 Hours
2Handlebar
American ComfortQuick comparison
- Best for
- Brunch enthusiasts and those looking for a laid-back spot with inventive vegetarian and vegan comfort food and a great patio.
- Strengths
- 4.6★ from 2500 Google reviews · Popular brunch spot · Great outdoor seating · Creative menu
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.6★
- What to order
- Their legendary Fried Avocado Tacos, featuring crispy fried avocado, pickled cabbage, and chipotle aioli.
- Insider tip
- Their patio is highly sought after in warmer months; arrive early or be prepared to wait for outdoor seating.
🕐 Hours
3Kitchen 17
Pizza & AmericanQuick comparison
- Best for
- Vegans and vegetarians craving an authentic Chicago deep-dish pizza experience, or anyone looking for hearty, satisfying vegan comfort food.
- Strengths
- 4.6★ from 1000 Google reviews · Only vegan deep dish · Extensive comfort food menu · Casual atmosphere
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.6★
- What to order
- A classic Vegan Deep Dish Pizza – choose from their extensive topping list for a truly personalized experience.
- Insider tip
- Deep dish pizzas take longer to prepare; call ahead with your order if you're in a hurry for dine-in or pickup.
🕐 Hours
4Planta Queen
Pan-AsianQuick comparison
- Best for
- A sophisticated date night, celebrating a special occasion, or enjoying creative vegan Pan-Asian cuisine in a trendy, upscale environment.
- Strengths
- 4.5★ from 1600 Google reviews · Chic ambiance · Innovative menu · Excellent cocktails
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.5★
- What to order
- The Ahi Watermelon Nigiri, a surprisingly realistic and delicious plant-based take on tuna sushi, and the Bang Bang Broccoli.
- Insider tip
- Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend evenings, as this spot fills up quickly.
🕐 Hours
5Bloom Plant Based Kitchen
Elevated VeganQuick comparison
- Best for
- Foodies seeking creative, chef-driven vegan cuisine and a refined dining experience, suitable for a romantic dinner or small gathering.
- Strengths
- 4.7★ from 800 Google reviews · Innovative dishes · Intimate setting · Allergy-friendly
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.7★
- What to order
- Their Mushroom Adobo, a rich and savory dish, or the seasonal Kimchi Fried Rice for a flavorful kick.
- Insider tip
- Many dishes are naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for those with dietary restrictions.
🕐 Hours
6Can't Believe It's Not Meat
Soul FoodQuick comparison
- Best for
- Satisfying cravings for classic American comfort and soul food favorites, all made plant-based and incredibly tasty.
- Strengths
- 4.3★ from 1800 Google reviews · Hearty portions · Impressive meat substitutes · Casual vibe
- Price / value
- $ · 4.3★
- What to order
- The Impossible Burger, which consistently receives rave reviews for its authentic texture and flavor, or their Fried 'Shrimp'.
- Insider tip
- Great for a quick, satisfying meal or takeout when you're in the mood for some serious vegan comfort food.
🕐 Hours
7Fancy Plants Cafe
Cafe & BakeryQuick comparison
- Best for
- A casual breakfast, coffee date, or picking up exquisite vegan baked goods and light lunch options.
- Strengths
- 4.8★ from 300 Google reviews · High-quality pastries · Cozy atmosphere · Great coffee
- Price / value
- $ · 4.8★
- What to order
- Any of their freshly baked vegan croissants or a savory scone, paired with a specialty coffee.
- Insider tip
- Their baked goods often sell out, so it's best to go earlier in the day if you have a specific pastry in mind.
🕐 Hours
8Ground Control
Vegan ComfortQuick comparison
- Best for
- A relaxed meal with friends, enjoying flavorful vegan sandwiches and entrees in a cool, unpretentious atmosphere.
- Strengths
- 4.5★ from 1000 Google reviews · Inventive menu · Craft beer selection · Unique vibe
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.5★
- What to order
- The Seitan Buffalo Po'Boy, a fan favorite, or their BBQ Tofu Sandwich for a smoky, satisfying meal.
- Insider tip
- This establishment is cash only, so be sure to hit an ATM before you arrive or use the one on-site.
🕐 Hours
9Arya Bhavan
IndianQuick comparison
- Best for
- Authentic and flavorful South Indian vegetarian food, especially for those who appreciate dosas, curries, and thalis.
- Strengths
- 4.4★ from 2500 Google reviews · Extensive menu · Affordable prices · Authentic flavors
- Price / value
- $ · 4.4★
- What to order
- A traditional Thali platter for a diverse taste of curries and sides, or a classic Masala Dosa.
- Insider tip
- Explore the diverse neighborhood of Devon Avenue before or after your meal for an immersive cultural experience.
🕐 Hours
10Amitabul
Korean VeganQuick comparison
- Best for
- Those seeking authentic, healthy, and organic Korean vegan cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients.
- Strengths
- 4.4★ from 800 Google reviews · Healthy options · Unique cuisine · Long-standing reputation
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.4★
- What to order
- Their signature Zen Kimchi Stew for a comforting and spicy meal, or the Hot Stone Bibimbap.
- Insider tip
- Parking can be challenging in this area, so consider taking public transportation or allow extra time to find a spot.
🕐 Hours
Planning Your Chicago Food Crawl
Reservations
For most mid-range vegetarian restaurants in Chicago, reservations are recommended, especially for weekend dinners or larger groups, but often not strictly required. Higher-end spots like Planta Queen and Bloom Plant Based Kitchen strongly advise booking well in advance to secure a table. Casual eateries and cafes generally operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so be prepared for a short wait during peak hours.
Payment & Cash-Only Spots
The vast majority of Chicago's vegetarian restaurants accept major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express). However, a few beloved local spots, like Ground Control, are cash-only to keep prices down; they typically have an ATM on premises. It's always a good idea to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller or independent establishments.
Best Times to Avoid Lines
To avoid crowds, consider dining during off-peak hours: early lunch (11:00 AM - 12:00 PM), late lunch (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM), or early dinner (5:00 PM - 6:00 PM). Weekday evenings are generally less busy than Friday and Saturday nights. Brunch spots like Handlebar and The Chicago Diner can have significant waits on weekend mornings, so going on a weekday or arriving right at opening is advisable.
Recommended Crawl Route
For a delicious vegetarian crawl through different neighborhoods, start your day with brunch at The Chicago Diner (the-chicago-diner) in Lakeview. Afterwards, head a few blocks north to Kitchen 17 (kitchen-17) for a taste of their famous vegan deep dish. Later, make your way west to Wicker Park for an evening of elevated vegan dining at Bloom Plant Based Kitchen (bloom-plant-based-kitchen). Conclude your culinary journey with a nightcap and some hearty vegan comfort food at Handlebar (handlebar).
Getting Around
Chicago boasts an excellent public transportation system, the CTA, with an extensive network of 'L' trains and buses that can get you to most of these vegetarian hotspots. Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available. For those staying downtown, walking or cycling can be pleasant ways to explore closer neighborhoods, especially during warmer months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chicago a good city for vegetarians and vegans?
Absolutely! Chicago has rapidly become a fantastic destination for plant-based eaters. The city offers an incredibly diverse range of vegetarian and vegan restaurants, from long-standing institutions to trendy new eateries, ensuring there's something to satisfy every craving and dietary need.
What's the difference between vegetarian and vegan dining in Chicago restaurants?
Vegetarian restaurants typically avoid meat, poultry, and seafood but may include dairy, eggs, and honey. Vegan restaurants, on the other hand, strictly exclude all animal products. Many vegetarian establishments in Chicago are also heavily vegan-friendly, offering a wide array of dedicated vegan options, clearly marked on their menus.
Are reservations necessary for vegetarian restaurants in Chicago?
For popular spots, especially during peak dining hours on weekends, reservations are highly recommended. Upscale places like Planta Queen almost always require them. For casual cafes and diners like Handlebar or The Chicago Diner, you might experience a wait, but reservations aren't typically taken.
Can I easily find gluten-free vegan options at Chicago's vegetarian restaurants?
Yes, many of Chicago's plant-based restaurants are very accommodating to dietary restrictions. Several venues, including Bloom Plant Based Kitchen and Fancy Plants Cafe, offer extensive gluten-free vegan menus. Always check their website or inform your server upon arrival for specific options and cross-contamination concerns.
What neighborhoods in Chicago have the best concentration of vegetarian options?
Lakeview, Wicker Park, and Logan Square are particularly rich with excellent vegetarian and vegan dining options, ranging from casual to upscale. River North also has a growing number of chic plant-based spots, while neighborhoods like Albany Park and West Rogers Park offer fantastic ethnic vegetarian cuisine.
Are there many budget-friendly vegetarian places in Chicago?
Yes, Chicago offers plenty of delicious and affordable vegetarian and vegan options. Spots like Arya Bhavan provide incredible value for authentic Indian vegetarian food, while Fancy Plants Cafe offers tasty vegan pastries and light meals at budget-friendly prices. Even some mid-range diners offer substantial meals without breaking the bank.
What kind of vegetarian cuisine is most popular in Chicago?
While classic American comfort food (burgers, sandwiches, brunch) with a vegan twist remains highly popular thanks to pioneers like The Chicago Diner, there's also a strong presence of innovative Pan-Asian vegan, hearty vegan soul food, and authentic Indian vegetarian. Chicago's vegan deep-dish pizza is also a unique and popular draw.
Is it easy to get around to these vegetarian restaurants using Chicago's public transport?
Absolutely. Chicago's CTA 'L' train and bus system is comprehensive and efficient, making it easy to reach most of the recommended restaurants from downtown or other neighborhoods. Many venues are conveniently located near 'L' stops or major bus routes, allowing for an easy and environmentally friendly way to explore.
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