Vegans are constantly confused with Vegetarians. It is difficult to find restaurants that offer food for the vegan eater while enticing other carnivores and vegetarians. Luckily, Chicago has a wide array of restaurants that offer vegan fare. From the classic Chicago Diner to the up and coming Loving Hut, these main vegan restaurants are the best Chicago.
Mana Food Bar
Mana can be translated to “the things magic is made of.” Nothing truer can be said of this vegan restaurant in Wicker Park. Although primarily vegetarian, Mana offers a large vegan selection that includes cold and hot dining options. Hot menu options include vegan chili made of corn, black beans, chickpeas, and green onions. Another hot option for dinner is the asparagus that is grilled with sweet miso sauce and black sesame seeds. Beets are a main choice off the cold menu and are sliced thin with arugula and apple salad in a raspberry vinaigrette. This excellent food is presented on classic white plates and the tables are rustic against the exposed brick walls. The dishes can be purchased in small or large portions and many are tapa-like. A large plate will cost you about $15.
Chicago Diner
The historic Chicago Diner in Boystown has been featured on numerous T.V. shows and is known throughout Chi-town for it’s delicious vegan food. The diner has just recently expanded to Logan Square and is being welcomed lavishly. Every item in the restaurant is vegan or has a vegan option. If you’ve ever wanted a salisbury steak but were a vegan, take a seat at the Chicago Diner. The menu is very expansive and offers wings, chili, pasta, and gyros. Locals rave about the vegan Philly Cheesesteak and many stay for the vegan milkshakes. This friendly diner also offers brunch and sticks to it’s strict vegan style. Lunch and brunch will run you about $10. Milkshakes and other desserts run $6-7. Cocktails are also served daily.
Found in California in 1994, The Native Foods Cafe calls Chicago home and can be found in the Lakeview, Loop and Wicker Park neighborhoods. The menu here is 100% plant based and is prepared fresh daily. You can find entree salads, desserts, earth bowls, and drinks here at Native Foods. Earth Bowls are bowls that are filled to the brim with flavor and toppings. You can choose from the Rockin Moroccan Bowl which has tofu, homemade Moroccan sauce, veggies, quinoa, currants and toasted almonds. Other Earth Bows are the Greek Gyro, Bangkok Curry Bowl, and the Sesame Kale Bowl. The desserts are as creative as the main course and all are non-dairy. Some of the favorite desserts here are the Oatmeal Creme Pie, Double Delight Brownie and the Homemade Apple Pie. Pricing here is very reasonable and if you share their large plates dinner will cost you about $5-7 per person.
Loving Hut Chicago
The Loving Hut is a fast growing vegan chain that is sweeping Hong Kong, Taiwan, and the U.S. With the slogan “be vegan make peace,” this restaurant in Edgewater offers vegan dishes that surprise and excite visitors. Living out the conviction that going vegan is the best way to go about living sustainably, this eateries menu includes Korean B.B.Q. lemon tofu, golden tofu steak and a great vegan burger. Main entrees are about $8 to $10 and include rice. Heavenly Curry is among the famous dishes and it includes chickpeas, lentil, sweet potato, butternut squash, coriander seeds, lemon grass, and carrots. Loving Hut has many yummy drinks to try. Milkshakes and vegan dessert coffees are often ordered and enjoyed alongside the main courses.