Quick answer
Denver is rapidly establishing itself as a haven for plant-based eaters, with its vibrant food scene embracing vegetarian and vegan cuisine with open arms. From cozy cafes serving inventive brunches to upscale eateries crafting sophisticated plant-forward dinners, the Mile High City offers a delicious journey for those seeking meat-free options.
- Best overall
- City O' City
- Top pick
- City O' City — iconic comfort food and all-day vegan/vegetarian options
Top verdicts
- City O' City: Anyone looking for reliable, delicious, and diverse vegetarian and vegan comfort food at any time of day.
- Watercourse Foods: Those seeking a delicious vegan brunch or a comforting, yet elevated, plant-based dinner in a bright setting.
- Somebody People: Diners looking for a stylish, modern vegan dining experience with innovative, seasonal dishes and creative cocktails.
The evolution of Denver's dining culture has seen a significant shift towards more inclusive and sustainable eating. Historically known for its steak houses, the city has undergone a culinary revolution, driven by a younger, health-conscious, and environmentally aware population. This has fostered a fertile ground for innovative chefs and restaurateurs to champion vegetarian and vegan menus, moving beyond simple salads to truly inspiring dishes.
Today, you'll find an incredible diversity in Denver's vegetarian offerings. Whether you're craving globally-inspired street food, classic American comfort fare, healthy and holistic bowls, or elegant fine dining experiences, the city delivers. Expect to see influences from Mediterranean, Asian, Latin American, and traditional American cuisines, all given a creative plant-based twist.
Area map
All 10 spots at a glance
| # | Name | Style | Price | Area |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | City O' City | Vegetarian Comfort | mid | Capitol Hill |
| 2 | Watercourse Foods | Vegan Comfort | mid | Uptown |
| 3 | Somebody People | Vegan Mediterranean | splurge | South Broadway |
| 4 | Vital Root | Vegan Global | budget | Berkeley |
| 5 | Bang Up to the Elephant! | Vegan Caribbean | mid | Capitol Hill |
| 6 | Root Down | Farm-to-Table | splurge | Highland |
| 7 | Linger | Global Small Plates | splurge | Highland |
| 8 | Meta Burger | Vegan Fast Casual | budget | Cherry Creek |
| 9 | Corner Beet | Vegetarian Cafe | budget | Uptown |
| 10 | Veggie Fun | Vegetarian Asian | mid | Virginia Village |
1City O' City
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Anyone looking for reliable, delicious, and diverse vegetarian and vegan comfort food at any time of day.
- Strengths
- Capitol Hill
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- City O' City is a Denver staple, offering an extensive menu of creative vegetarian and vegan comfort food in a relaxed, artistic atmosphere. It's the go-to spot for everything from hearty breakfast burritos to inventive dinner entrees and late-night snacks, all plant-based and delicious.
- What to order
- The Seitan Wings, tossed in your choice of sauce, are legendary and a must-try for both vegans and non-vegans.
🕐 Opening hours
2Watercourse Foods
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Those seeking a delicious vegan brunch or a comforting, yet elevated, plant-based dinner in a bright setting.
- Strengths
- Uptown
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Watercourse Foods, City O' City's sister restaurant, offers a slightly more refined take on vegan comfort food with a strong emphasis on fresh, wholesome ingredients. It's particularly popular for its extensive brunch menu and inviting, sunlit dining room, perfect for a leisurely meal.
- What to order
- The Chicken & Waffles is a standout, featuring crispy seitan 'chicken' with fluffy waffles and maple syrup – a true vegan delight.
🕐 Opening hours
3Somebody People
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Diners looking for a stylish, modern vegan dining experience with innovative, seasonal dishes and creative cocktails.
- Strengths
- South Broadway
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Somebody People brings a chic, modern vibe to vegan dining with its Mediterranean-inspired, seasonal menu. Their focus on fresh, often locally-sourced ingredients results in beautifully plated and incredibly flavorful dishes, making it a hotspot for a trendy dinner.
- What to order
- Their seasonal pasta dishes are always a highlight, showcasing fresh vegetables and house-made pasta in surprising combinations.
🕐 Opening hours
4Vital Root
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Health-conscious diners or anyone seeking a quick, delicious, and affordable vegan meal in a lively neighborhood.
- Strengths
- Berkeley
- Price / value
- $
- Why it made the list
- Vital Root offers healthy, vibrant, and globally-inspired vegan cuisine in a fast-casual setting. It's the perfect spot for a quick yet nutritious meal, with a menu featuring bowls, wraps, and small plates packed with flavor and fresh ingredients, all at an accessible price point.
- What to order
- The Pad Thai, made with kelp noodles and a rich cashew sauce, is a fan favorite that's both satisfying and light.
🕐 Opening hours
5Bang Up to the Elephant!
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Anyone looking for a fun, energetic dining experience with unique vegan Caribbean food and excellent tropical cocktails.
- Strengths
- Capitol Hill
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Step into a tropical paradise at Bang Up to the Elephant!, Denver's vibrant vegan Caribbean restaurant. With a lively atmosphere, colorful decor, and a menu bursting with flavor, it's a unique and fun dining experience that transports you to the islands with every bite and sip.
- What to order
- The Trini Doubles are an absolute must-try – fluffy fried bread filled with curried chickpeas, a truly authentic and delicious snack.
🕐 Opening hours
6Root Down
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Diners seeking an upscale yet relaxed experience with meticulously crafted dishes that highlight fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients.
- Strengths
- Highland
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Root Down is an iconic Denver restaurant celebrated for its commitment to farm-to-table cuisine, sustainable practices, and an impressive array of vegetarian and vegan options. Housed in a renovated gas station, its quirky-chic ambiance and globally-inspired menu make for a memorable dining experience.
- What to order
- While the menu changes seasonally, look for their inventive vegetable small plates or the vegan green chili, a local favorite reimagined.
🕐 Opening hours
7Linger
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Couples or groups looking for a vibrant atmosphere, fantastic city views, and a diverse menu with excellent vegetarian sharing plates.
- Strengths
- Highland
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Perched atop a former mortuary, Linger offers a unique dining concept with globally-inspired small plates and stunning views of the Denver skyline. While not exclusively vegetarian, its diverse menu includes an impressive selection of creative and flavorful plant-based dishes perfect for sharing.
- What to order
- Their Bao Buns often feature a delicious vegan option, and the various dips and spreads with flatbread are always a good choice.
🕐 Opening hours
8Meta Burger
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Anyone craving a classic American burger and fries experience, but entirely plant-based and guilt-free.
- Strengths
- Cherry Creek
- Price / value
- $
- Why it made the list
- Meta Burger is a local sensation, serving up award-winning, plant-based burgers, fries, and shakes that even staunch meat-eaters love. This fast-casual spot proves that vegan food can be incredibly satisfying, indulgent, and doesn't compromise on flavor.
- What to order
- The 'Logic Burger' is a fan favorite, featuring a savory patty, vegan cheese, and all the classic fixings.
🕐 Opening hours
9Corner Beet
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- A relaxed breakfast or lunch, especially for those seeking fresh juices, smoothies, and wholesome vegetarian fare.
- Strengths
- Uptown
- Price / value
- $
- Why it made the list
- Corner Beet is a charming and cozy vegetarian cafe dedicated to healthy, plant-forward eating, with a strong focus on organic and locally-sourced ingredients. It's a beloved spot for fresh juices, smoothies, and delicious brunch and lunch options that nourish both body and soul.
- What to order
- Their Avocado Toast creations are next-level, or try one of their invigorating cold-pressed juices.
🕐 Opening hours
10Veggie Fun
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Lovers of Asian cuisine seeking a dedicated vegetarian/vegan restaurant that delivers authentic and flavorful dishes.
- Strengths
- Virginia Village
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Veggie Fun offers a delightful array of vegetarian and vegan Pan-Asian dishes, primarily focused on Chinese and Thai flavors. This unassuming spot is celebrated for its extensive menu, fresh ingredients, and ability to deliver all the classic Asian dishes you love, made entirely plant-based.
- What to order
- The Orange 'Chicken' and the Pad See Ew are highly praised for their rich flavors and excellent texture.
🕐 Opening hours
Frequently asked questions
Are there many vegan-only restaurants in Denver, or mostly vegetarian with vegan options?
Denver has a growing number of dedicated vegan restaurants, with notable examples including Watercourse Foods, Somebody People, Vital Root, and Meta Burger. Many other vegetarian-friendly establishments, like City O' City, also offer extensive and clearly labeled vegan menus, making it easy for strict vegans to find delicious options across the city.
Do Denver's vegetarian restaurants cater to other dietary restrictions like gluten-free?
Yes, most vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Denver are highly accommodating to other dietary restrictions, especially gluten-free needs. They often clearly label GF options on their menus or have staff who can guide you. It's always best to inform your server about any allergies or dietary requirements when ordering.
Is vegetarian dining in Denver expensive?
Denver's vegetarian dining scene offers options across all price points. You can find very affordable and delicious meals at places like Vital Root and Meta Burger (typically $15-25 per person), mid-range options at City O' City and Watercourse Foods ($20-40), and upscale experiences at Somebody People, Root Down, or Linger ($35-65), ensuring there's something for every budget.
Are these restaurants generally kid-friendly?
Many of the listed restaurants are kid-friendly, especially the more casual spots like City O' City, Watercourse Foods, Vital Root, and Meta Burger, which offer approachable menus and relaxed atmospheres. Upscale establishments like Root Down or Linger might be better suited for older children or special occasions.
Can I find healthy and light vegetarian options, or is it mostly comfort food?
Denver's vegetarian scene strikes a great balance. While you can certainly indulge in fantastic comfort food at City O' City or Watercourse Foods, places like Vital Root and Corner Beet specialize in healthy, fresh, and often organic dishes, including vibrant bowls, salads, and juices. Many other restaurants offer lighter options alongside heartier fare.
Do I need to make reservations in advance for most of these places?
For the more popular or upscale restaurants like Somebody People, Root Down, and Linger, especially for dinner or weekend brunch, reservations are highly recommended. For casual spots like City O' City, Watercourse Foods, Meta Burger, Vital Root, or Corner Beet, reservations are typically not necessary, but be prepared for potential waits during peak hours.
Are there vegetarian options available for different cuisines, like Asian or Mexican?
Absolutely! Denver's vegetarian scene is very diverse. You'll find delicious vegetarian and vegan Asian cuisine at Veggie Fun, Caribbean flavors at Bang Up to the Elephant!, Mediterranean at Somebody People, and globally-inspired dishes at Vital Root and Linger. Many general restaurants in Denver also offer excellent plant-based takes on Mexican and other international cuisines.
What's the best time of year to visit Denver for the food scene?
Denver's food scene is vibrant year-round. However, late spring through early fall (May-October) is particularly pleasant as many restaurants, including Root Down and Linger, open their outdoor patios, allowing for al fresco dining with beautiful mountain or city views. This period also coincides with the availability of fresh, local produce highlighted in many farm-to-table menus.