Exploring the Best Vegan Restaurants in Chicago (2025 Edition)
In this blog, you will find about the best vegan restaurants in Chicago and vegan restaurants near me.
Chicago, the Windy City, is a culinary paradise that caters to all tastes, including those seeking plant-based options. The vegan scene here is thriving, offering everything from gourmet dining to casual comfort food. Here are some of the best vegan restaurants in Chicago currently running in 2025 that you won’t want to miss.
1. Althea
Location: 700 N Michigan Ave, 7th Floor, Chicago, IL 60611
Phone: (312) 578-1000
Website: althearestaurant.com
Located in the heart of the Magnificent Mile, Althea offers an elevated dining experience with stunning city views. Their globally-inspired menu features beautifully plated dishes such as the kimchi dumplings, truffle Alfredo pasta, and a decadent raw vegan cheesecake. The atmosphere is chic, making it perfect for date nights or special occasions. Athlea is one of the best Vegan Restaurants in Chicago.
The Concept
Althea, which means “to heal” in Greek, lives up to its name by prioritizing health-conscious and sustainable practices in every dish. Created by renowned chef Matthew Kenney, Althea’s menu showcases the artistry of plant-based cuisine, proving that vegan food can be both innovative and indulgent.
Must-Try Menu Items at Althea
- Truffle Alfredo Pasta: A crowd favorite, this rich and creamy pasta dish combines cashew-based truffle sauce, wild mushrooms, and perfectly cooked pasta.
- Kimchi Dumplings: These bright green dumplings pack a punch of flavor with their tangy kimchi filling and dipping sauce.
- Kelp Noodle Pad Thai: A fresh and healthier spin on the traditional pad Thai, featuring tamarind sauce, crunchy vegetables, and kelp noodles for a satisfying texture.
- Raw Vegan Cheesecake: Althea’s raw vegan cheesecake is a dessert masterpiece. It’s creamy, flavorful, and comes in a variety of rotating flavors to keep your taste buds excited.
Must-Try Dish: Truffle Alfredo Pasta
Final Thoughts
Althea isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an experience. With stunning dishes, bold flavors, and a chic setting, it’s a must-visit in Chicago. Perfect for special occasions or a treat, Althea showcases the best of plant-based dining.
Location Google Map
2. The Chicago Diner
Locations: 3411 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60657 (Lakeview); 2333 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647 (Logan Square)
Phone: (773) 935-6696 (Lakeview); (773) 252-3211 (Logan Square)
Website: chicagodiner.com
A staple in the vegan community since 1983, The Chicago Diner remains a go-to spot for hearty comfort food. Famous for their slogan, “Meat-Free Since ’83,” they serve up indulgent dishes like vegan milkshakes, seitan Reubens, and country-fried steak. With locations in Logan Square and Lakeview, it’s easy to satisfy your cravings. This is the best Vegan Restaurants in Chicago.
A Pioneer in Plant-Based Dining
Since 1983, The Chicago Diner has been proving you don’t need meat to enjoy hearty comfort food. A trailblazer in vegetarian and vegan cuisine, it’s won countless awards, becoming a true vegan dining icon.
The Menu
The Chicago Diner’s menu is packed with flavor-forward dishes that redefine comfort food. From breakfast classics to decadent desserts, there’s something for everyone. Here are some highlights:
- Vegan Cinnamon Roll Pancakes: Fluffy pancakes swirled with cinnamon sugar and topped with vanilla icing.
- Tofu Scramble: A savory mix of seasoned tofu, fresh vegetables, and toast.
- Radical Reuben: Their signature sandwich made with house-made seitan, grilled onions, and vegan Thousand Island dressing, served on marbled rye.
- Country-Fried Steak: A vegan spin on a diner classic, featuring breaded seitan, mashed potatoes, and creamy gravy.
Final thoughts
The Chicago Diner is more than a restaurant—it’s a Chicago icon. Known for comforting dishes, a cozy vibe, and sustainability, it’s a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re craving a vegan milkshake, a Radical Reuben, or a warm, welcoming spot, The Chicago Diner has you covered.
Must-Try Dish: Radical Reuben
Google Map Location
3. Kal’ish
Location: 1313 W Wilson Ave, Chicago, IL 60640
Phone: (872) 206-6628
Website: kalishvegan.com
This casual eatery in Uptown is all about plant-based comfort food with a twist. From loaded nachos to spicy fried chicken sandwiches, Kal’ish ensures no flavor is sacrificed. Their brunch offerings, like the vegan French toast and biscuits with gravy, are a weekend highlight. This is the best Vegan Restaurants in Chicago.
The Heart of Kal’ish: Vegan Comfort Food
Kal’ish, founded by Gina Marino-Kalish and Andy Kalish in 2016, offers food for everyone, vegan or not. Their menu includes plant-based versions of comfort dishes like vegan chili, crispy burgers, and tasty salads.
Kal’ish’s Most Beloved Dishes: Vegan Comfort Food at Its Finest
During its time in Chicago, Kal’ish became known for its creative, flavorful dishes that made vegan food accessible and exciting for everyone. Here are four of their standout meals that had customers coming back for more:
- Kal’ish Burger: A vegan take on the classic, with a hearty patty, fresh veggies, vegan cheese, and house sauce, served with crispy fries.
- Vegan Pancakes: Fluffy, golden pancakes made with plant-based ingredients, topped with maple syrup, fresh fruit, and powdered sugar—perfect for breakfast or brunch.
- BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich: Smoky, tender jackfruit in tangy BBQ sauce, served on a toasted bun with pickles and crispy fries, ideal for pulled pork lovers.
- Tofu Scramble: A savory, protein-packed breakfast with crumbled tofu, sautéed veggies, and spices, perfect for a satisfying start to the day.
Each dish left a lasting impression, and they remain favorites for anyone who had the pleasure of dining at Kal’ish.
Why You Should Visit Kal’ish
Kal’ish isn’t just a vegan restaurant; it’s a celebration of plant-based living and creativity. Whether you’re a vegan or curious about plant-based food, Kal’ish offers a welcoming space with delicious, wholesome meals that nourish your body and satisfy your taste buds.
Must-Try Dish: Spicy Fried Chicken Sandwich
Google Map Location
4. Urban Vegan
Location: 1605 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60613
Phone: (773) 404-1109
Website: urbanveganchicago.com
For those who love Asian-inspired flavors, Urban Vegan in Lakeview is a must-visit. Their extensive menu includes Thai curries, noodle dishes, and mock meats that even omnivores rave about. The casual vibe makes it ideal for both dine-in and takeout. This is the best Vegan Restaurants in Chicago.
Exploring Urban Vegan: Chicago’s Trendy Spot for Plant-Based Deliciousness
If you’re a vegan or simply someone looking to try fresh, flavorful plant-based cuisine, Chicago’s Urban Vegan is a must-visit. Located in the heart of the city, this trendy restaurant offers an exciting, sustainable, and utterly delicious take on vegan dining, making it a prime destination for both locals and tourists alike.
The Menu: Flavorful & Innovative
The chefs here are committed to crafting mouth-watering dishes that don’t just mimic traditional animal-based meals but instead celebrate the bold, unique flavors that plants have to offer.
Some signature dishes include:
- Vegan Tacos: These soft, corn tortillas are filled with savory sautéed mushrooms, crispy jackfruit, and fresh salsa, topped off with a tangy avocado crema.
- Beyond Burger: If you’re craving a juicy, hearty burger, the Beyond Burger is your answer. With all the textures and flavors you crave, it’s the perfect vegan alternative to a classic American burger.
- Vegan Sushi Rolls: Urban Vegan’s sushi rolls are nothing short of an art form, packed with fresh, seasonal vegetables and creative twists on traditional sushi.
For dessert, you’ll find indulgent treats such as coconut milk ice cream, vegan cheesecakes, and chocolate mousse—each one a rich and satisfying end to your meal.
The Experience
Whether you’re vegan or simply someone who appreciates good food, Urban Vegan offers an experience that’s both culinary and cultural. It’s not just a place to grab a quick meal; it’s a destination where food lovers can explore new tastes, connect with like-minded individuals, and feel good about what they’re eating.
Must-Try Dish: Orange Chicken
Google Map Location
5. Fancy Plants Kitchen
Location: 1443 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Phone: (773) 857-1825
Website: fancyplantskitchen.com
Nestled in Lincoln Park, Fancy Plants Kitchen blends innovation with sustainability. Their seasonal menu highlights locally-sourced ingredients, and the dishes are as creative as they are delicious. Be sure to check out their rotating specials and grab a pastry from their bakery section. This is the best Vegan Restaurants in Chicago.
A Stylish Dining Experience
When you step into Fancy Plants Kitchen, you’re greeted by a stylish, cozy atmosphere. The space features modern, minimalist decor, natural wood, and vibrant plants. The bright and welcoming vibe makes it a great spot to relax and enjoy a meal, whether it’s for a night out or a special occasion.
The Menu: Innovative, Plant-Based Delights
Fancy Plants Kitchen offers creative plant-based dishes that delight both vegans and non-vegans. Their menu balances unique flavors and textures for satisfying meals. This is one of the best menu of Vegan Restaurants in Chicago.
Some standout menu items include:
- Truffle Mac & Cheese: This rich and creamy mac and cheese is made with a velvety cashew-based sauce and topped with truffle oil for a touch of luxury.
- Vegan Crab Cakes: These crispy vegan crab cakes are served with a tangy remoulade sauce and a side of fresh greens, offering a perfect balance of flavor and texture.
- Jackfruit Tacos: Fancy Plants Kitchen takes jackfruit to the next level with these delicious tacos, filled with tender jackfruit, avocado, pickled onions, and a spicy aioli.
- Mushroom Risotto: A decadent risotto made with earthy mushrooms, a rich coconut cream base, and fresh herbs, this dish offers a perfect balance of creaminess and depth, ideal for anyone looking for a hearty, satisfying meal.
For dessert, you can indulge in a variety of delicious options like the Chocolate Hazelnut Tart, Vegan Cheesecake, or their Seasonal Sorbet for a lighter, refreshing option.
Conclusion
If you’re in Chicago and craving a sophisticated yet delicious plant-based meal, Fancy Plants Kitchen is a must-visit destination. With its modern ambiance, innovative menu, and dedication to sustainability, it offers a dining experience that both excites and satisfies.
Must-Try Dish: Wild Mushroom Risotto
Google Map Location
6. I Can’t Believe It’s Not Meat
Location: 1368 E 53rd St, Chicago, IL 60615
Phone: (773) 942-6679
Website: icantbelieveitsnotmeat.com
This vibrant spot in Hyde Park specializes in vegan versions of classic American favorites. From loaded burgers to shrimp po’ boys, their menu is designed to satisfy both vegans and non-vegans alike. Their fun and casual setting make it a great place to gather with friends. The best Vegan Restaurants in Chicago.
Ultimate Vegan Comfort Food Spot
For anyone who’s ever doubted that vegan food can deliver the comfort and indulgence of traditional meat dishes, I Can’t Believe It’s Not Meat in Chicago is here to prove you wrong. This hidden gem is a plant-based paradise, offering vegan takes on beloved comfort foods with a fun, creative twist.
The Menu: Vegan Comfort Food at Its Best
At ICBINM, the focus is on comfort food that satisfies your cravings while staying 100% plant-based. The chefs here have mastered the art of creating dishes that feel indulgent but are made with cruelty-free, wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re craving something savory or a little sweet, there’s something on the menu for everyone. This is one of the best menu of Vegan Restaurants in Chicago.
Here are a few standout items you’ll want to try:
- Vegan Fried Chicken: One of the restaurant’s most popular items, this crispy, golden vegan “chicken” is made from seasoned tofu and tempeh, coated in a crunchy batter, and fried to perfection.
- BBQ “Ribs”: For anyone craving the smoky, tender taste of classic BBQ, the vegan “ribs” at ICBINM are a game-changer. Made from seitan and coated in a smoky, tangy BBQ sauce, they offer the ideal mix of chewy and tender.
- Vegan Cheeseburger: With a juicy, plant-based patty made from soy, grains, and vegetables, this burger is piled high with fresh veggies, pickles, and a rich vegan cheese.
- Mac & Cheese: This dish features a creamy, rich cashew-based sauce and elbow macaroni, topped with crispy breadcrumbs.
- Vegan Pizza: The pizza here is out of this world, with a crispy thin crust topped with a variety of plant-based toppings like smoky “sausage,” bell peppers, mushrooms, and a melty vegan mozzarella that you won’t believe isn’t the real thing.
For those with a sweet tooth, the Vegan Donuts are a perfect indulgence. Soft and fluffy, they come in a variety of flavors such as chocolate glaze, maple pecan, and cinnamon sugar—ideal for an after-meal treat.
Conclusion
If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal but want to stick to plant-based, I Can’t Believe It’s Not Meat offers a delicious and satisfying solution. With its fun atmosphere, creative menu, and commitment to sustainability, it’s a spot that’s sure to please anyone—whether they’re vegan or not.
Must-Try Dish: Vegan Shrimp Po’ Boy
Google Map Location
7. Kale My Name
Location: 3300 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
Phone: (773) 961-7275
Website: kalemyname.com
Owned by an award-winning vegan chef, Kale My Name offers a cozy, welcoming space and a menu packed with flavor. Located in Albany Park, this spot is perfect for brunch or dinner. Their cocktails, like the signature Kale Margarita, pair perfectly with dishes like the BBQ jackfruit sliders. This is the best Vegan Restaurants in Chicago.
A Fresh, Modern Atmosphere
When you enter Kale My Name, you’ll be welcomed by a bright, inviting atmosphere. The restaurant features a modern design with clean lines, natural wood accents, and plenty of plants, highlighting the fresh, organic ingredients. The open, airy space offers a relaxed vibe, ideal for dining with friends or enjoying a solo meal.
The Menu: Healthy, Bold, and Full of Flavor
Kale My Name’s menu is a true celebration of plant-based foods. Offering a wide range of dishes that highlight fresh vegetables, grains, and legumes, this restaurant elevates healthy eating with bold flavors and satisfying textures.
Some standout dishes include:
- The Kale My Name Salad: This kale salad is a flavorful mix of kale, roasted chickpeas, avocado, quinoa, pickled red onions, and lemon-tahini dressing—fresh, filling, and full of taste.
- Cauliflower Wings: Kale My Name serves crispy, roasted cauliflower with a savory, spicy sauce—a healthy, crunchy, and tender twist on classic wings, perfect for sharing.
- The Buddha Bowl: Packed with wholesome ingredients like quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, chickpeas, spinach, and a creamy avocado dressing.
- Jackfruit Tacos: These soft tacos are filled with seasoned, tender jackfruit, making a delicious meat substitute that is bursting with flavor. They’re a great choice for anyone craving something savory.
- Vegan Mac & Cheese: This creamy, dairy-free mac & cheese is made with a rich cashew-based sauce and gluten-free pasta.
For dessert, Kale My Name serves up treats like Coconut-Lime Bars and Chocolate Avocado Mousse—sweet yet healthy desserts that are the perfect end to a satisfying meal.
Conclusion
In a city like Chicago, where food is diverse and constantly changing, Kale My Name stands out for offering tasty, health-conscious meals made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Its creative take on plant-based dining makes healthy eating exciting, and its dedication to sustainability makes it a restaurant worth supporting.
Must-Try Dish: BBQ Jackfruit Sliders
Google Map Location
8. Liberation Donuts
Location: 2050 N California Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
Phone: (773) 698-6205
Website: liberationdonuts.com
For those with a sweet tooth, Liberation Donuts in Logan Square is a dream come true. This all-vegan donut shop crafts artisanal donuts with unique flavors like maple chai and blueberry lavender. Pair your treat with a coffee for the ultimate pick-me-up. This is the best Vegan Restaurants in Chicago.
The Vibe: A Cozy, Community-Centered Shop
Liberation Donuts offers a warm, inviting atmosphere where you can feel comfortable enjoying your favorite treat or sipping a cup of freshly brewed coffee. The cozy shop is designed with a minimalist yet welcoming aesthetic, featuring bright, clean lines, vintage-inspired décor, and a relaxed vibe. The friendly staff is always ready to make recommendations or chat about their latest donut creations.
The Menu: Flavorful, Creative, and Completely Vegan
What sets Liberation Donuts apart is its dedication to creating truly decadent vegan donuts that rival any traditional donut shop. Each donut is made from scratch using high-quality plant-based ingredients, so you can indulge without the guilt. From classic flavors to more creative combinations, there’s a donut for every palate here. This is one of the best menu of Vegan Restaurants in Chicago.
Some of the standout flavors include:
- The Classic Chocolate Glazed: A fan favorite, this donut is topped with a smooth, rich chocolate glaze that is both indulgent and perfectly balanced with the light, fluffy dough. It’s a timeless treat for chocolate lovers.
- Cinnamon Sugar: The cinnamon sugar donut offers the perfect combination of warm spices and sweetness. Light and airy, it’s the kind of treat that can be enjoyed with coffee or on its own.
- Maple Bacon: This donut features a smoky, savory twist with crispy coconut bacon, making it the ultimate comfort food. Topped with a sweet maple glaze, it strikes the perfect balance between salty and sweet.
- Lemon Poppy Seed: A refreshing option, the lemon poppy seed donut is a zesty delight. The tangy lemon glaze is complemented by a touch of vanilla, creating a light and bright flavor profile that’s perfect for those who want something a little more citrusy.
- S’mores Donut: For anyone who loves the campfire classic, this donut is a true indulgence. It features a graham cracker crust, toasted marshmallow topping, and a drizzle of chocolate, making it a rich and satisfying treat.
If you’re feeling adventurous, be sure to check out the Daily Special. Liberation Donuts frequently rotates new, limited-time flavors, which are always exciting to try.
Conclusion
Liberation Donuts proves that vegan food can be indulgent, creative, and absolutely delicious. With their wide variety of mouthwatering donuts, cozy atmosphere, and commitment to sustainability, it’s easy to see why this Chicago shop has quickly become a favorite for those seeking a sweet treat that aligns with their values. These are the best Vegan Restaurants in Chicago.
Must-Try Dish: Maple Chai Donut
Google Map Location
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a lifelong vegan, exploring plant-based eating, or just looking for delicious food, Chicago’s vegan restaurant scene has something for everyone. From indulgent comfort food to gourmet creations, these establishments prove that vegan cuisine is anything but boring. Make your way through this list and discover your new favorite spot! So these are the best Vegan Restaurants in Chicago.
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