More and more Black people are adopting plant-based lifestyles due to the health benefits. This shift not only betters one’s health but also supports the environment. Hundreds of Black-owned vegan restaurants across the nation promote these benefits and create a sense of community. These businesses offer tasty, nutritious plant-based choices and inspire others to make mindful decisions for their well-being and the planet.
These Black-owned vegan restaurants around the country serve up the best of plant-based dining, showcasing their diverse and creative dishes. They offer a fresh perspective on plant-based eating, whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just curious to try new flavors. Visiting these establishments is an excellent way to support local businesses while savoring delicious, cruelty-free meals.
Arizona
Trash Panda (Phoenix)
Chef Krystal Mack, personal chef to NBA stars, established Trash Panda Vegan in December 2019 for transitional eaters. Trash Panda Vegan represents a multicultural comfort food truck concept. It translates their passion for environmental consciousness, health, and community. The focus is on delivering delicious plant-based comfort food appealing to a wide range of tastes.
Trash Panda Vegan is closely associated with Early Bird Vegan, a restaurant located in South Phoenix, AZ. It prioritizes health and offers a diverse menu including superfood smoothies, wellness shots, sandwiches, salads, and house-made pastries. If you need catering services that cater to various preferences, Trash Panda Vegan has you covered.
California
Stuff I Eat (Inglewood)
Located in Inglewood, California, Stuff I Eat is a beloved vegan restaurant offering a fusion of healthy and flavorful dishes. Stuff I Eat was established in 2008 by Ron and Babette Davis. It is the result of their dedication and commitment to offering wholesome, plant-based choices to their community.
Their menu provides a transitional diet that maintains the delicious taste, flavors, and textures people love, all while promoting healthier eating. They prioritize the use of organic produce whenever available and take pride in the fact that their food is free from refined sugars, artificial flavors, artificial colors, and preservatives.
Vurger Guyz (Los Angeles)
Established by four ex-NCAA athletes to encourage a nutritious diet, Vurger Guyz dishes out extraordinary burgers from a mobile kitchen that cruises the streets of Los Angeles daily. Among the crowd-pleasers is the lavish Vurger, heaped with lettuce, crispy fried onions, pickles, tomatoes, sizzling jalapeños, vegan American cheese, and a sauce tailored to your taste buds.
Florida
Rootz Soul Cafe (Fort Laurdale)
Owned by John Frontal, Rootz Soul Cafe embraces a “nourish your soul” philosophy, offering a diverse range of dishes catering to vegans, vegetarians, and pescatarians. Their menu features a variety of options including burgers, bowls, wraps, tacos, and an assortment of sides such as sweet plantains and fried broccoli with peppers. The restaurant also serves fresh juices and ginger shots. Don’t miss out on their standout dishes like the ‘Beyond tacos’, “no-pig” bacon burger, or teriyaki chik’n wrap. The kitchen occasionally surprises patrons with specials like vegan lasagna, stuffed shells, or a soul food plate.
Donut’ste (Orlando)
Chef Shalom, hailing from Brooklyn, is crafting delectable donuts using wholesome, plant-based ingredients, with a focus on celebrating fresh herbs and spices. It’s not unusual to find yourself in a lengthy queue, eagerly anticipating the chance to savor their renowned Creme Brulee Doughnut or Red Velvet Cinnamon Roll, only to discover they’ve sold out hours in advance. To ensure you don’t miss out, arrive early and indulge in Donut’ste Doughnuts’ exclusive pastries like Mojito, Pink Lemonade, and Banana Pudding,
Georgia
Slutty Vegan (Atlanta)
Owned by Pinky Cole, a former television producer, Slutty Vegan has gained fame for its indulgent, plant-based take on traditional comfort food. Their menu is a carnival of flavor, offering mouthwatering vegan burgers, loaded fries, and delicious milkshakes. With its colorful, lively atmosphere and commitment to supporting the community, Slutty Vegan has captured the hearts of foodies and vegans alike. It’s a prime example of how veganism can be fun, delicious, and inclusive.
Tassili’s Raw Reality (Atlanta)
Owned by Tassili Ma’at, Tassili’s Raw Reality is a fast-casual eatery in Atlanta, Georgia, specializing in raw vegan cuisine inspired by international flavors. Their diverse menu includes dishes like spicy kale salad and kale wraps, catering to various dietary preferences, from flexitarian to vegan.
Their mission is to promote optimal health and well-being and establish employee-owned raw vegan restaurant franchises worldwide. Tassili’s Raw Reality is famous for its delicious and health-conscious food, particularly its kale offerings, and features an inviting Afrocentric ambiance.
Illinois
Majani Vegan Soul (Chicago)
Majani, which translates to “Green Leaf,” is a fast-casual vegan restaurant that specializes in serving plant-based Southern cuisine. Chefs Tsadakeeyah and Nasya Emmanuel, drawing inspiration from their African heritage and rural background, craft each recipe using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and tantalizing spices. The restaurant offers an array of classic dishes with a vegan twist, from BBQ cauliflower bites to mac ‘n’ cheese. Their commitment to using high-quality, plant-based ingredients and creating an inviting atmosphere makes Majani a top choice for those looking to experience the heartiness of Southern cuisine in Chicago.
Soul Veg City (Chicago)
Soul Veg City, previously known as Original Soul Vegetarian, has been a vital part of Chicago’s South Side for 42 years. Founded in 1981 as Soul Vegetarian by Prince Asiel Ben Israel, it has been a pioneer in promoting heart-healthy, plant-based cuisine when the connection between food and health was not widely recognized.
Over the years, it has inspired others worldwide to follow its vision. Now under the ownership of Prince Asiel Ben Israel’s children, Arel Brown and Lori Seay, Soul Veg City has recently completed a significant renovation, expanding its dining area, juice bar, live bar, and hot bar while adding new patio seating.
Maryland
The Land of Kush (Baltimore)
The Land of Kush, founded by Naijha Wright-Brown and Gregory Brown in Baltimore in 2011, is a renowned plant-based restaurant. It offers a vegan take on soul food and has earned numerous awards over its 11 years of operation, including recognition for its vegan crab cakes, which are considered one of the best vegan seafood dishes in the nation by PETA.
A popular item on their menu is the Special Platter, featuring favorites like vegan crab cakes, mac ‘n’ cheese, and the Chef’s personal pick, the Live Kale Salad. If you’re in the Baltimore area, consider visiting during Maryland Vegan Restaurant Week to enjoy dishes like Eggplant Parmesan, a long-time customer favorite.
NuVegan Café (Washington, D.C. – also serves Maryland)
Owned by Vernon Woodland, NuVegan Café is located in Washington, D.C., and serves the Maryland area. It provides a welcoming atmosphere with a hospitable team that takes pride in delighting your palate with in-house prepared dishes, a smoothie and juice bar, and plenty of seating for group gatherings. They offer a comfortable space with great music and occasional events, creating a sense of home away from home.
New York
Seasoned Vegan (New York City)
Seasoned Vegan Real Quick is a family-owned and operated business led by Brenda and Aaron Beener, a mother-son team. They serve their vegan and vegetarian patrons by offering a fully organic, 100% vegan menu. Their commitment is to craft meals that are not only delicious but also appealing to a broad range of diners, including skeptics of vegan cuisine.
Their menu offers a range of flavorful dishes, from BBQ riblets to curried chick’n. The restaurant’s dedication to sourcing local, organic, and cruelty-free ingredients is a testament to responsible and ethical dining. Seasoned Vegan invites you to savor the rich, comforting tastes of its soul food favorites.
Sol Sips (Brooklyn)
Owned by Francesca Chaney, Sol Sips is a delightful vegan café in New York. It is famous for its creative and healthy plant-based offerings. Sol Sips not only offers a menu of Caribbean vegan daytime dishes from Monday to Saturday but also provides curated meal kits and juice cleanse options with flexible pricing to enhance accessibility.
Meal kit bundles include items like chickpea omelets and Belizean veg plates. Whether you’re meeting someone for a smoothie and a snack or seeking vegan options, consider Sol Sips as a vegan choice in Bushwick.
North Carolina
Pure Soul (Durham)
At Pure Soul, the aim is to offer a vegan fast-food experience centered on kindness and cleanliness. The restaurant serves a diverse range of soulful cuisine. The focus is on creating a sense of community and inclusivity for all individuals, regardless of their dietary preferences or beliefs, through what is referred to as “kind comfort food.”
Dining options at Pure Soul include indoor and patio seating, takeout, third-party delivery, and catering services. In line with Pure Soul’s commitment to sustainability, all food and beverage items are packaged in 100% compostable to-go containers. They are complemented by compostable utensils and napkins. Customers are encouraged to use the compost bins available on-site to help reduce the restaurant’s contribution to landfills.
Oregon
Dirty Lettuce (Portland)
Owned by Alkebulan Moroski, Dirty Lettuce is a completely vegan restaurant that specializes in satisfying and flavorful soul food. If you have a preference for Cajun or southern cuisine but follow a plant-based diet, this establishment has your cravings covered. Their menu boasts a wide selection of vegan comfort dishes. The list includes in-house prepared options like fried chicken, fried catfish, BBQ ribs, collard greens, jambalaya, shrimp and grits fritters, mac and cheese, and southern-style vegetables.
Pennsylvania
The Nile Café (Philadelphia)
Owned by Aqkhira and Khetab Corinaldi, the Nile Cafe is recognized for its vegan soul food. This restaurant presents a delectable range of dishes, including the well-loved “BBQ Chicken” paired with okra, tomato, and corn. The menu extends to encompass vegan baked goods, a variety of vegan ice cream flavors, and a wide selection of beverages. Notably, some of the main courses, like the pepper steak and roast duck, are skillfully crafted from soy or wheat.
In addition to the culinary offerings, visitors have the opportunity to explore book and clothing selections and participate in health classes.
Texas
Green Seed Vegan (Houston)
Owned by Matti Merrell and Rodney Perry, Green Seed Vegan offers a selection of popular items. Freshly made juices and “elixirs” using wheatgrass, fruits, and vegetables are prepared on demand. The entire menu, including the juices, is entirely vegan, with many options being completely raw. Notable choices include the enticing Dirty Burque, a burger alternative that rivals any meat-based counterpart. The restaurant also serves the flavorful Tosh panino featuring house-made maple-jerk tempeh crafted from garbanzo beans instead of soy.
Da Munchies (San Antonio)
Da Munchies in San Antonio, Texas is a vegan restaurant that specializes in soul food and Caribbean cuisine. Their menu includes classics like vegan jerk chicken, plantains, and vegan mac ‘n’ cheese. The restaurant’s commitment to offering authentic flavors while maintaining a vegan approach is a testament to conscious and flavorful dining. Da Munchies provides a welcoming environment where you can enjoy the tastes of the Caribbean with a cruelty-free twist.
Ohio
Willowbeez Soulveg (Columbus)
Willowbeez Soulveg, a family-owned and operated vegan soul food pop-up and catering company, has been serving the community since 2012. The unique approach to vegan soul food, led by owner, founder, and head chef Carnell Willoughby, along with co-founder Malik Willoughby, has allowed the business to carve out a distinctive presence. Prioritizing the wellness of the community, the founders believe in the benefits of a plant-based lifestyle for healthier outcomes. In central Ohio, Willowbeez Soulveg has stood as a longstanding vegan soul food business, creating dishes based on community preferences and needs.
Louisiana
Sweet Soul Food (New Orleans)
Owned by Chetwan Smith, Sweet Soul Food captures the essence of the establishments offering traditional comfort food in New Orleans. The daily-changing menu at Sweet Soulfood includes vegan versions of classic dishes. The menu includes gumbo, red beans, stuffed bell peppers, jambalaya, greens, mac and cheese, cornbread, and bread pudding.
Despite the culinary differences, the restaurant exudes a sense of familiarity. This begins with the steam table that showcases all the food for prompt service, reminiscent of the corner joints that provide many daily meals in the area.
Addis Nola (New Orleans)
Addis Ethiopian Restaurant is a standout addition to New Orleans’ culinary landscape. As one of only two Ethiopian Restaurants in Louisiana, it is family-owned, Black-owned, and bears the name “Addis” from Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa, meaning “New Flower.” Dr. Alemayehu’s vision for a more interconnected New Orleans inspired Addis NOLA, connecting the city to Ethiopia. Despite the distance, shared elements like second-line celebrations and a mutual love for food and culture emphasize their unique connection. Dr. Alemayehu and her family’s journey from Addis Ababa to Addis NOLA reflects this special link.
Washington
Plum Bistro (Seattle)
Owned by Makini Howell, Plum Bistro in Seattle, Washington is a renowned vegan restaurant known for its gourmet approach to plant-based dining. Their menu features a wide range of elevated vegan dishes, from truffle fries to elegant entreés like wild mushroom risotto. Plum Bistro is dedicated to serving high-quality, organic, and sustainable vegan cuisine in a chic and inviting setting. It’s a top choice for those seeking a sophisticated dining experience without compromising on their ethical values.
Michigan
Detroit Vegan Soul (Detroit)
Detroit Vegan Soul, located in Detroit, Michigan is a beloved vegan restaurant that specializes in southern comfort food. Their menu offers a range of flavorful dishes, from BBQ tofu to mac ‘n’ cheese and sweet potato pancakes. The restaurant’s commitment to locally sourced, organic ingredients and eco-friendly practices is evident. It’s the ideal place for enjoying the comforting flavors of soul food without compromising your values.
The Kitchen by Cooking with Que (Detroit)
The Kitchen by Cooking with Que is a vegan restaurant and cooking school created by Chef Quiana Broden. It offers a variety of plant-based dishes inspired by Southern and international cuisines. With a focus on health and wellness, Chef Que brings her culinary expertise to the table. Dishes include vegan jerk jackfruit and plant-based seafood. The Kitchen by Cooking with Que is a destination for those seeking flavorful and health-conscious vegan cuisine.
New Jersey
Brick City Vegan (Jersey City)
Brick City Vegan is a unique fast-casual restaurant featuring plant-based burgers, scratch-made biscuits, and refreshing fruit shakes. Everything on its menu intends to be approachable and delicious. The restaurant welcomes everyone through its doors and prepares meals right in front of its guests with sustainable high-quality ingredients.
Vibez Vegan Cafe (Jersey City)
Located in the Heights, Jersey City, Vibez Vegan Cafe serves delicious, innovative, healthy and soulful vegan cuisine. According to its owners, it was conceived and prepared with gratitude and full intention to nurture body, mind, and soul. The restaurant offers fresh organic juices, soul vegan food, veggie patties, scrumptious Pastries baked daily and retail health-related products.
Nevada
Simply Pure (Las Vegas)
Simply Pure is run by vegan chef and nutritionist Stacey Dougan. The restaurant serves Mama Mia Lasagna, Nachos Grande, and Jicama Chili Cheese Fries in her mission to inspire others to embrace plant-based foods. From expertly crafted dishes infused with cannabinoids to thoughtfully curated pairings, these dining experiences offer a unique opportunity to explore the harmonious interplay of flavors and effects, elevating your culinary adventure to new heights.
Black and Blue Diner (Las Vegas)
The menu at Black and Blue Diner covers all the classic diner offerings. It ranges from chicken and waffles and breakfast burritos to various lunch choices, including several options for vegans. The menu highlights breakfast dishes and burgers, featuring specialties like the New York classic breakfast sandwich. Customizable omelets and a variety of Benedicts are available. The all-day dinner menu includes burgers, chicken sandwiches, and classic diner options, with vegan alternatives such as plant-based egg dishes and a chicken Philly sandwich.
Missouri
Gigi’s Vegan (Kansas City)
Owned by Gigi Jones, Gigi’s Vegan + Wellness Cafe believes that a conscious business is a business that contributes to making a positive impact in the community. The restaurant only uses recyclable materials, such as glass juice jars, and avoids plastic except for its to-go biodegradable cups. This way the restaurant aligns to reducing its waste footprint as much as possible, especially during a time of high to-go and delivery orders.
South Carolina
Dell’z (Charleston)
Dell’z Uptown is one of a few of Charleston’s dedicated vegetarian and vegan restaurants. In a quaint shop with wood and metal accents in West Ashley, Dell’z offers vegetarian and vegan wraps, pizzas, salads, and more. With a commitment to sustainability and a warm, inclusive atmosphere, Dell’z stands as a go-to destination for those seeking delicious and health-conscious meals in the heart of South Carolina.
Peace of Soul (Columbia)
A locally renowned establishment on Main Street, A Peace of Soul is a favored choice when in Columbia. Specializing in entirely plant-based cuisine and vegan comfort food, it has garnered recognition, earning a place in Food Network’s top 10 vegan eateries nationwide. Their Fried “Chicken” Sandwich, locally sourced collards, refreshing fresh-pressed limeades, and a diverse menu offer a range of delightful options.
