Vancouver has plenty to offer when it comes to the foodie scene, especially if you’re vegan. From sweet treats to fancy restaurants, Vancouver really does have it all. I’m from a small city in the U.K. so when I first moved to Vancouver, I was in awe of all of the options I had when it came to eating out. Not only do many restaurants offer an abundance of vegan options, but there are also a lot of completely plant-based restaurants and bakeries. Here are my top ten vegan eats in Vancouver.
1. Virtuous Pie
If you’re looking for quality vegan pizza, you’re in the right place. Virtuous Pie specializes in vegan pizza and ice cream. They also offer gluten-free bases and desserts. I haven’t eaten at any of their restaurants yet but they are always my go-to when it comes to ordering in. I really enjoy their pizzas and I have also tried their ice cream tubs which are creamy and delicious. You won’t be disappointed when you visit Virtuous Pie.
2. Vegan Cave
Vegan Cave definitely competes with Virtuous Pie when it comes to pizza. Their pizzas are created with 3 different base options that support people who are on paleo or keto diets. This means they are also very accommodating to those with gluten-free dietary requirements. Their pizzas are healthy, delicious, and very filling. If you’re planning on ordering take-out that you can eat for breakfast the next day, Vegan Cave is the one for you.
3. Cartems Donuts
There are not many doughnut shops out there that offer vegan and gluten-free options and so Cartems Donuts is a must-visit if you’re in Vancouver. Note: you need to make sure to visit one of their locations early because they will be destined to sell out. Their doughnuts are so delicious that many Vancouverites queue down the street in the hopes of grabbing a tasty treat.
4. Wallflower Diner
This diner is suitable for anyone as they cater their menu to meat-eaters, vegetarians, and vegans. This means the Wallflower Diner is always a great place to eat with a group of friends. Their comforting options appeal to all kinds of eaters. If you’re looking for a juicy burger, this cozy diner offers their very own veggie patty as well as the famous Beyond Meat patty. To wash down your main course, Wallflower Diner also has amazing gluten-free and vegan desserts on offer, my personal favorite being the carrot cake cupcake.
5. Chickpea
If it’s on your bucket list to eat at a food truck, head over to Chickpea. Chickpea has a restaurant as well as a food truck which both offer completely plant-based menus. Chickpea is extremely well known in Vancouver and everyone loves their delicious comfort food all year round. Their food is mostly based around hummus and offers a Mediterranean twist. If you’re looking for catering for a Vancouver-based event, a vegan restaurant to visit with family or simply just wanting to grab a quick bite for the beach, look no further.
6. Level V Bakery
Level V Bakery offers vegan cakes, pastries, desserts, and more. Everything is freshly baked and if you’re looking to order a cake for an occasion, each cake is uniquely decorated so no two cakes look the same! Level V Bakery is always changing what they have available in their store and so you can never say you’ve tried it all. If you’re looking for delicious vegan baked goods, make sure Level V Bakery is on your list.
7. The Naam
This restaurant offers vegetarian and vegan dishes and has done for over 50 years! The Naam is well-known in Vancouver and is great for accommodating many dietary requirements. Their ingredients are locally sourced and they’re open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Pre pandemic, The Naam was open 24/7 and so for many, it was the go-to place to grab a bite at any time of day.
8. The Acorn
Voted No1 of the 50 best vegan-friendly restaurants in the world by Big Seven Travel, The Acorn does not disappoint when it comes to a veg-forward fine dining experience. Although more on the pricey end when it comes to budget, The Acorn’s locally sourced vegetables definitely don’t disappoint. I dined at The Acorn for my birthday meal and it was a perfect evening. Extremely tasty and well-thought-out food combined with passionate staff and elegant decor.
9. Meet
Meet is my go-to place when it comes to getting a vegan burger in Vancouver. Meet has many locations across the city and offers a variety of burgers stuffed full of goodness. If you’re a tourist in the city and want to try some Canadian food, make sure you order some poutine! Their restaurants are great for dining at or they also offer take-out and delivery through apps such as Doordash and Uber Eats.
10. Edible Flours
This vegan bakery holds a special place in my heart as it’s where I ordered my boyfriend’s 30th birthday cake from and it was so, so good. We’ve since been back many times to try their other baked goods. Edible flours are also great with other dietary requirements such as gluten and nut-free. If you’re in the area, I’d definitely recommend popping in and grabbing yourself a delicious cupcake… or two!
There are many vegan restaurants and bakeries that haven’t made it into my top ten, mostly because I haven’t gotten around to trying them all yet! Vancouver really isn’t short of options when it comes to your dietary requirements and this is coming from a wheat-free, nightshade-free, caffeine-free vegan!
Also by Anna: I’m A Wheat-Free, Nightshade-Free Vegan. Here’s Why It’s Worth It For My Skin & Health
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Photo: Anna Ashbarry
