The number of purely vegan restaurants in the United States is growing exponentially. It is encouraging to see some restaurants commit to a 100 percent plant-based menu, as there are many exciting things chefs can do with produce. These restaurants have menus that fully utilize local and seasonal ingredients and entice diners from all dietary lifestyles. Vegan restaurants show people the multifaceted flavors that come from fruits and vegetables and strengthen the vegan presence in the culinary world. Here are five of the best vegan eateries in the United States you should visit:
Gracias Madre in San Francisco and Los Angeles
Gracias Madre is a Mexican restaurant that is 100 percent plant-based and organic. The restaurant environment feels elevated in its design through a mix of exotic comfort and well-curated decor. Behind a graphic-tiled bar lies a large selection of vegan spirits, such as Captain Morgan, almond milk horchata and tequila blanco.
The restaurant was inspired when the owners, who also own Cafe Gratitude, visited the families of their Mexican employees. They wanted to capture the passion and tradition of Mexican food, but through plant-based ingredients. The food celebrates Mother Earth as well as the beauty of the Mexican culture and cuisine.
The Butcher’s Daughter in Los Angeles and New York
Part juice bar, part cafe, The Butcher’s Daughter is a haven for healthy fare. The restaurant has a produce calendar, which showcases the season’s fruit and vegetable offerings. The restaurant knows that seasonal and local produce tastes the best and enhances the community’s sustainability.
One outstanding juice on the menu is the Goddess of Green, which promotes mental clarity. It includes kale, cucumber, pineapple, fennel, green apple, thyme and blue green algae. Other show stoppers include the tacos verdes, spinach artichoke crock, avocado tartare and raw pesto linguine.
Kajitsu in NYC
Kajitsu is a one-star Michelin restaurant that offers exceptional vegan Japanese fare. Kajitsu’s shojin cooking style originates from Zen Buddhism and is regarded as the foundation of all Japanese cuisine. The multi-course meal is composed of seasonal and fresh ingredients and prepared with methods that enhance the flavor profile of each component.
One outstanding dish is the Takiawase, which is made of cauliflower, pumpkin, daikon, fried tofu, scallion, Nama-fu and yuzu. The dishes at Kajitsu excel in flavor and are beautifully plated for a complete and sensational delight.
Vedge in Philadelphia
Vedge was launched by the husband and wife team, Richard Landau and Kate Jacoby, in 2011. The menu spotlights seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, and it uses zero animal products.
Its winter menu features delectable dishes, like cauliflower cottage pie made of mushroom ropa vieja and whipped and pickled cauliflower. Its sticky toffee pudding is a highlight for any vegan who has a sweet tooth. The sweet toffee pudding is layered in its flavor profile with the addition of cedar ice cream and smoked chestnuts.
Canteen in Portland
Canteen is the epitome of Portland veganism. It is unapologetic in its passionate pursuit and knows how to do vegan food right. The restaurant brings in strong flavors from all over the world, including southern barbecue, curries, Mexican spices and kimchi.
Canteen’s bowls and salads are simple, but strong in flavor. It also offers a variety of fresh-pressed juices and smoothies. The Maca & Friends smoothie makes for a wonderful snack, as its ingredients of banana, almond butter, dates, vanilla, almond milk and maca will thoroughly nourish you.
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