Joke as you will, vegan food is BOMB. Especially in the Bay. These restaurants will turn any carnivore into a be-leaf-er and have you craving another meal. From cinnamon rolls to sushi and everything in between, we've got your list of the most mouthwatering picks.
Last updated January 15, 2023
San Francisco
(370 14th St // Mission)
Remember: "Fish are friends, not food". This wood-decked restaurant will have you feeling fancy as you nom down on sushi so good you'll forget it's not freshly caught. It's only open for dinner, so plan ahead.
(395 Golden Gate Ave // Civic Center)
Serving up Vietnamese-style goodness since 1999, this spot has an upscale vibe with an affordable price range. You can't go wrong with the Garden Vermicelli and a slice of decadent cheesecake for dessert.
(299 Divisadero St // Lower Haight)
If you're craving some cute vegan sweets and a nice cup of coffee, this is the spot for you. This woman-owned and operated bakery makes all their goodies not only vegan but gluten-free, soy-free, local and organic as well.
(189 6th Ave // Richmond + 1030 Hyde St // Nob Hill)
Want to feel real healthy in your plant-based practice? Pop over to Nourish Cafe for a delightfully satisfying salad, bowl, toast, or smoothie that'll get you feeling energized and wholesome.
(2000 Union St // Cow Hollow)
Another 100% plant-based restaurant, we are shook at the choices on the menu. If you're craving something healthy, but not too healthy (IYKYK), Wildseed strikes the perfect balance. Be sure to get the Belga Fries!
(1737 Buchanan St // Japantown + 680 Clay St // Chinatown + 219 O'Farrell St // Union Square)
Okay, this isn't a fully vegan restaurant, but you'll forgive us once you have a slurp of their vegan Creamy Ramen made with soy milk and sesame. Their Zen version offers a lighter mushroom-based broth.
(Multiple Locations)
With locations worldwide, this fast-food spot (think Panda Express meets quality ingredients) does vegan food right. Grab a meal of chow mein or eggplant curry and move on with your busy day!
Via Rad Radish
(301 Hayes St // Hayes Valley)
Don't worry, you're not having deja vu: the team behind trendy vegan spot Wildseed is also behind this fast-casual joint. Rad Radish’s fresh, seasonal menu proves you don’t need meat to have a hearty meal — just look to their spicy “sausage” flatbread, jackfruit meatballs, or tempeh bacon “B.L.A.T.” for evidence.
(1385 9th Ave // Inner Sunset)
Home to all things you didn't even think could be vegan: beignets, carbonara, BBQ wings, and oh so much more. If you're thinking about cheating on your veganism for something cheesy or meaty, head over to Cybelle's and go crazy. You probably won't be able to tell the difference anyway.
(3906 Judah St // Outer Sunset)
Judahlicious is perfect if you're looking to enjoy the health benefits of a plant-based diet, eat delicious food, and NOT break the bank. They've got juices, açaí bowls, and sandwiches that are kind to your body, your environment, and your wallet.
East Bay
(San Bruno // Santa Rosa)
Drop what you've heard about bland, boring vegan food. Rapper and SF-native Toriano Gordon is whipping up soul fusion in the form of plant-based brisket, po'boys, and Smackaroni and cheese. Unfortunately, the Vegan Mob's brick and mortar location in The Town is closed, but you can still ride with this crew by visiting their food truck. They post up in San Bruno and Santa Rosa on the regular.
(1954 University Ave // Berkeley)
Despite the visual image the name provides, this spot is fully vegan, though you might be hard-pressed to believe it once you've tasted it. Their menu rotates regularly with plenty of mouth watering options.
(6037 San Pablo Ave // Oakland)
These donuts are so good that one of their FAQs is "Do you ship donuts?" Spoiler: no, they do not, but they do deliver! All of Donut Farm's donuts are organic and plant-based, making for the perfect pick-me-up any time of day. If you're in SF, they've also got a spot in the Ferry Building!
(5912 College Ave // Oakland)
Previously located in SF, Millennium now brings that five-star feel to the East Bay. With desserts that are almost too gorgeous to eat and a constantly changing menu, you won't be able to wait to come back for more.
(755 San Pablo Ave // Albany)
On those days that you want a home-cooked meal, but can't bring yourself to do the actual cooking, check out Shangri-La Buddha. They serve up plates in two different portion sizes, and the menu changes twice a day.
Via Souley Vegan
(610 Main St. // Martinez)
Creole comfort food – those words alone bring about a vision of homey vibes and a happy belly. Chef and owner Tamearra Dyson has been whipping these vegan dishes up since she was 18, so you know you're in good hands.
(Multiple Locations)
Ooey gooey and made-to-order, these cinnamon rolls will satisfy any sweet tooth. Hope you're not on a diet, with 20 flavors of icing and 22 toppings we know you'll be back again and again. They were even featured on Shark Tank!
(1301 Franklin St // Oakland)
The extensive Asian fusion menu at Golden Lotus might actually cause some problems for the indecisive folk. How could you choose between Sweet & Sour Soy Chicken, Spicy Szechuan Pineapple "Beef," and Lemongrass Tofu? Our rec: go for all three!
South Bay + Peninsula
Via Vegetarian House
(520 E Santa Clara St // San Jose)
The name may be a little misleading, but all of their dishes are vegan and downright delicious. We recommend getting the Spicy Cha Cha: fried "shrimp" made of root flour that will have you thinkin' you're eating the real thing.
(1688 Hostetter Rd Ste C // San Jose)
Believe it or not, you can indulge on bubble tea and milkshakes that are vegan and organic. Their logo is framed by silhouettes of cats, so it's basically guaranteed you'll leave this place happy.
Via Sky Cafe
(223 Grand Ave // South San Francisco)
Sky Cafe has a frequently changing menu with dishes inspired by places all over the world. Start with spicy Cauliflower Wings, then venture to Thailand for Green Curry, or Northern Africa for "Lamb" Kebabs. Don't forget dessert!
(548 Lawrence Expy Ste 2 // Sunnyvale)
This is one of those places that will have you working up an appetite just looking at the menu. Vermicellis, salads, soups, and fried rices galore! Plus, should you need an entire vegan cake for some occasion, they'll hook you up with that too.
North Bay
(58 Golf Course Dr W // Rohnert Park + 5839 Paradise Dr // Corte Madera)
Fast, affordable, and delicious: America's first vegetarian drive-through created quite a buzz when it first opened in 2015 and it shows no signs of slowing down. Grab The Amy Burger to go or sit down with a bowl of Broccoli Cheddar Mac. Vegan and gluten-free options are available for almost all items!
(1367 N McDowell Blvd #110 // Petaluma)
Finding vegan options in North Bay can prove challenging, and while this spot isn't strictly vegan, they have more plant-based offerings than you could imagine. Satisfy your Chinese food craving with everything from Kung Pao Vegan Chicken to Broccoli Vegan Beef.
(1899 Mendocino Ave Ste B // Santa Rosa)
How can you turn down hearty vegan comfort food in a super chill setting? Cozy Plum serves up decked out tacos, burgers, burritos, pizzas, and so much more. They even bring in goodies from Morning Ritual Bakery on weekends!
(25 Miller Ave // Mill Valley)
If you're on the hunt for authentic Southeast Asian fare with vegan-friendly choices across the Golden Gate, look no further than Boo Koo. Their Mighty Mint Salad, Tofu Bánh Mì, and Yellow Curry are all sure to please your tastebuds.
(Multiple Locations)
Located within several grocery stores across the US, their brick and mortars in Marin County are your one-stop-shop for healthy, wholesome food and snacks. Creative bowls, rich raw desserts, and cold-pressed juices will have you feeling energized in no time.
Written by Brigitte Hoch and Katherine Andrews
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