From plant-based barbecue ribs to meatless sliders, you won’t go hungry as a vegan when dining in Vermont. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or an elegant meal, these eight restaurants are plating up veggie-friendly menus with style.
Revolution Kitchen
You’ll find a bounty of vegan and vegetarian dishes at Revolution Kitchen in Burlington. Tucked away in an old brick building covered in vines of green ivy, this restaurant serves up an earthy flair outside and inside with its mismatched tables and simplistic décor. Dine on artfully plated dishes such as celery soup with black currant jam, roasted artichokes and fluffy potato gnocchi tossed in a refreshing pesto sauce. Be sure to pair your meal with a glass of vegan wine. Dine-in is by reservation only.
Vegan AF
With a name like Vegan AF, you can expect no compromises when it comes to delivering fantastic, bold vegan cuisine. Located in Brattleboro, this joint’s menu features sustainable and globally inspired dishes that will have your tastebuds questioning whether it’s truly vegan. Dine on the tree-covered patio under strings of golden lights and chow down on dishes like buffalo cauliflower wings, kale and butternut squash pasta and double veggie burgers with plant-based mac and cheese!
Pingala Cafe
Burlington’s Pingala Cafe serves fresh, food truck-inspired vegan grub (the menu actually has a vegan version of Taco Bell’s beloved Crunchwrap Supreme). Sit on the porch and soak up the Vermont mountain air while enjoying plates filled with mouthwatering bites like hickory-smoked carrot “hot dogs,” nachos with cashew queso and their famous broccoli bites smothered in buffalo and vegan ranch.
Roots Restaurant
For a romantic date night, head to the elegant and upscale Roots in Rutland. Though it’s not fully vegan, the restaurant offers some tasty vegan options, like their portobello mushroom sandwich, Korean barbecue-style tofu, and fried Brussels sprouts tossed in a sweet maple aioli. Wash things down with one of their seasonal cocktails – try the Blackberry Bourbon Sour – or enjoy a glass of wine or craft beer.
Aromas of India
Located in Williston, Aromas of India serves classic Indian dishes with a vegetarian twist. Packing a punch of flavor (without the meat), the menu offers an extensive selection of flavorful curries, naan flatbreads and samosas. Dig into a spicy bowl of Dal Palak, a blend of spinach, lentils and herbs. Or try the Malai Kofta – fried balls of potato and paneer smothered in a creamy gravy made from onions, Indian spices and dry fruits.
Bent Hill Brewery
While beer may be the star of the show, the folks at Bent Hill Brewery in Braintree do a pretty bang-up job in the kitchen with a completely meatless menu. Enjoy one of their frothy craft beers like the Blood Orange IPA with notes of stone fruit and malt, while munching on delicious bar-style bites like cauliflower tacos, mushroom po’boys and quesadillas packed with black beans, sweet potatoes and corn crema! Even better, most of their vegetarian dishes can be made vegan upon request.
Wee Bird Bagel Cafe
If you’re looking for a vegan-friendly place for breakfast or brunch, Wee Bird Bagel Cafe in Randolph is the place to be. This no-frills to-go spot bakes their bagels daily and tops them with a slew of vegetarian and vegan-friendly options like vegan kimchi, egg and house-marinated tempeh. For the ultimate breakfast, try the Veggie Monster – a toasted bagel topped with veggie cream cheese, carrots, spinach, red onion and cucumber. Pair it with a lavender latte with steamed oat milk, and you’ve got the perfect morning boost!
Despacito
The dream of Chef David Quintana, this Puerto Rico-inspired vegan café serves up flavorful plant-based dishes with a kick! Nestled in Burlington’s historic Old North End, this restaurant offers a cozy vibe and hosts open mic nights on Mondays. Dig into mouthwatering small plates like empanadas stuffed with jackfruit and mushrooms. Or, indulge in main courses such as picadillo, a Puerto Rican-style chili made with impossible meat, green olives, pickled peppers and onion. Need a sweet treat? Try the coconut flan.