Asheville, a vibrant city in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, has become a hotspot for food lovers, especially those who follow a plant-based diet. Known for its thriving arts scene and abundance of outdoor activities, Asheville prides itself on providing many delicious vegan restaurants that cater to all tastes and preferences. Whether you are searching for a casual bite or a romantic dining experience, this city has something for everyone.
You’ll discover various options when exploring Asheville’s vegan dining scene, from vegan-friendly bars and cafes to restaurants offering innovative plant-based menus. Featuring international vegan cuisine, delectable specialty items and desserts, and a wide range of specialty dishes, Asheville has quickly become a favorite destination for those seeking a satisfying and unique vegan dining experience. With a passion for fresh, quality ingredients and a commitment to satisfying diverse palates, these establishments offer plenty of vegan-friendly date spots, local favorites, and popular breakfast options – solidifying Asheville’s place as a vegan food lover’s paradise.
Key Takeaways
- Asheville offers various vegan options, from casual cafes to fine dining experiences.
- The city showcases diverse plant-based menus, including international cuisine, specialty dishes, and delicious desserts.
- These vegan-friendly establishments cater to diverse occasions, including breakfast, dates, and indulging in local favorites.
Vegan Restaurants in Asheville
Asheville, NC, is known for its diverse culinary scene, including various delicious vegan options. If you’re searching for tasty vegan meals, here are a few vegan restaurants in Asheville that you should visit.
Plant Vegan Restaurant is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike. Known for its American-style cuisine, Plant Vegan offers a variety of creative dishes made from scratch, like seitan steak and vegan cheese plates. With rave reviews, you can’t go wrong with this cozy and intimate spot.
Eden-Out is a unique service that specializes in 100% vegan bulk-prepared meal deliveries. At 148-C Weaverville Hwy, Woodfin, NC 28804, Eden-Out uses local and organic ingredients in their meal preparations. It’s a convenient option for those who prefer to have their vegan meals delivered to their doorstep.
If you’re in the mood for pizza, Mellow Mushroom offers delightful vegan pizzas loaded with various veggies and vegan cheeses. A visit to this iconic chain is sure to satisfy your pizza cravings.
Blue Dream Curry House is another fantastic place to visit to explore vegan options in Asheville. Known for its exotic and flavorful curries, Blue Dream Curry House offers various vegan alternatives that excite your taste buds.
Asheville also has some fantastic cafes with vegan options, such as Homegrown, a casual eatery that promotes the ‘Slow Food Right Quick’ movement. Enjoy wholesome and hearty vegan meals in a laid-back atmosphere here.
In summary, many vegan restaurants in Asheville, NC, cater to various tastes and preferences. From Plant Vegan Restaurant to Blue Dream Curry House, your options for delicious vegan cuisine are endless. Try them all, and find your favorite spot in this charming city.
Vegan Friendly Bars and Cafes
Asheville offers a variety of vegan-friendly bars and cafes for you to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing drink or a delicious vegan meal, there’s something for everyone. This section will explore Asheville’s top vegan-friendly bars and cafes.
Bars
Buchi Bar: Located within The Whale: A Craft Beer Collective, Buchi Bar serves kombucha on tap and creative vegan cocktails. If you’re looking for a refreshing, non-alcoholic drink, their kombucha flavors will surely intrigue your taste buds.
Green Sage Cafe: While not strictly a bar, Green Sage Cafe offers a broad range of vegan options and has numerous drinks, including smoothies, coffee, and tea. With a focus on health and sustainability, you can be sure that their menu items are eco-friendly and delicious.
Cafes
Laughing Seed Cafe: With a solid 4.2 stars on Yelp and a reputation for delectable vegetarian and vegan dishes, Laughing Seed Cafe is an ideal spot to relax and enjoy a fantastic vegan meal. It has outdoor seating, delivery, and takeout options—making it incredibly convenient for any visitor to Asheville.
Plant: Rated 4.6 stars on Yelp, Plant is another cafe worth visiting for Asheville’s vegan enthusiasts. This vegetarian cafe offers outdoor seating and takeout, and its vegan ramen is a must-try—delight in the vibrant flavors of an entirely plant-based meal at Plant.
Vegan-friendly bars and cafes in Asheville showcase the city’s commitment to offering delicious, sustainable, and healthy options. So, when visiting Asheville, check out these venues for a memorable experience. Enjoy your vegan journey!
Plant Based Menus
Asheville is a haven for vegan and vegetarian food lovers. With various plant-based menus, you’ll never feel limited by your dietary choices in this lively city. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan, a curious vegetarian, or just looking to try something new, Asheville’s culinary scene has you covered.
If you’re in the mood for a full-fledged vegan dining experience, head to Plant Vegan Restaurant at 165 Merrimon Ave. They offer an extensive menu of creative American dishes, ensuring your taste buds enjoy a delicious plant-based meal. With rave reviews and a friendly atmosphere, it’s no wonder this spot is beloved by locals and visitors alike.
At the same time, vegetarians can rejoice in several eateries around the area that cater specifically to their needs. One example is Eden-Out, located at 148-C Weaverville Hwy in Woodfin, NC. They offer vegan cuisine and a Veg Card Discount, encouraging you to enjoy delicious vegetarian food regularly.
Moreover, Asheville’s diverse dining scene means you’re never too far from vegan and vegetarian options, even when exploring non-vegetarian establishments. Many local restaurants have incorporated seitan, tempeh, and tofu into their menus so that you can enjoy plant-based alternatives alongside your friends and family members with different dietary preferences.
Notable examples of such places include Jargon and The Corner Kitchen, known for their mouthwatering vegan options in a trendy setting. Don’t be afraid to venture out and explore the city’s rich culinary landscape – you might stumble upon your new favorite dish.
So, go ahead and enjoy Asheville’s delightful plant-based menus, and remember to savor every bite of your journey through the city’s vibrant vegan and vegetarian food scene.
International Vegan Cuisine
Asheville offers a wide range of international vegan cuisine to satisfy your taste. This section will explore delicious vegan Italian, Mexican, Caribbean, Spanish, and Latin food options.
Italian
Satisfy your craving for Italian flavors at these vegan-friendly Asheville restaurants:
- Mellow Mushroom: Known for its delicious pizza, this popular spot offers vegan cheese and a variety of toppings to create your perfect plant-based pie.
- Green Sage Café: Serving health-conscious Italian-inspired dishes, this café offers vegan pasta entrees made with fresh ingredients and flavorful sauces.
Ask for vegan cheese or plant-based protein options to customize your Italian dishes.
Mexican
Asheville’s vegan-friendly Mexican restaurants offer flavorful vegan options and substitutes:
- Limones: With exceptional reviews and a creative menu, Limones provides vegan adaptations of their favorite Mexican dishes, like enchiladas and tacos.
- Rosetta’s Kitchen: Known for its diverse plant-based menu, this spot offers various vegan Mexican-inspired options like tempeh tacos and quesadillas.
Look for vegan alternatives to traditional Mexican ingredients like dairy-free cheese and plant-based meat substitutions.
Caribbean
Craving tropical flavors? Asheville boasts vegan Caribbean cuisine to delight your palate:
- Jargon: This contemporary American restaurant features Caribbean-influenced dishes like plantain croquettes and jerk-spiced tempeh.
- Nine Mile: Offering a Jamaican-inspired menu, you’ll find plenty of vegan options, such as coconut curry stew and grilled veggie skewers.
Don’t forget to pair your meals with refreshing island-inspired beverages and vegan desserts.
Spanish
Experience the taste of Spain through vegan tapas, paella, and more:
- Curate: This renowned Spanish tapas restaurant offers an extensive selection of customizable small plates, including marinated olives, roasted beet salad, and Spanish potato salad.
- Zambra: Embrace traditional Spanish flavors through vegan options like vegetable paella, sautéed mushrooms, and stuffed Piquillo peppers.
Be sure to inquire about vegan-friendly special dishes and modifications at these Spanish eateries.
Latin
Savor the diverse flavors of Latin cuisine through vegan-friendly Asheville establishments:
- Sunny Point Café: This cozy spot has a Latin-inspired menu with vegan options like tofu scrambles, vegan chorizo, and sweet potato home fries.
- White Duck Taco Shop: This eatery caters to various dietary preferences by offering unique plant-based taco fillings like roasted cauliflower and mushroom potatoes.
Watch for inventive vegan dishes that combine traditional Latin flavors with plant-based proteins and ingredients.
Specialty Items and Desserts
Asheville has a great selection of vegan specialty items and desserts that cater to various preferences. This section will guide you through some delightful options, including nuts, cakes, donuts, ice cream, and smoothies.
Nuts
Nuts are a nutritious and tasty vegan snack. In Asheville, you’ll find various vegan restaurants that offer nut-based dishes or desserts. For example:
- Pulp and Sprout has a dessert selection, including nut-based treats like chocolate truffles.
- Dine at a local vegan-friendly café or bakery to find desserts incorporating nuts, such as almond or walnut-based treats.
Cakes and Donuts
Asheville is home to several vegan bakeries and restaurants that provide mouth-watering cake and donut options. Here are a couple of places you can visit to treat yourself:
- Old Europe Pastries offers a variety of vegan cakes and pastries that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
- Stop by a vegan bakery in town for donuts made from plant-based ingredients. Some vegan-friendly options may be available seasonally or as part of rotating selections at certain bakeries.
Ice Cream and Smoothies
Keep your cool with refreshing vegan ice cream and smoothies in Asheville. Check out some popular spots for vegan frozen desserts and beverages:
- Sunshine Sammies is known for its delicious vegan ice cream cookie sandwiches.
- Many cafés and bars in Asheville offer plant-based smoothie options made with dairy-free milk, fresh fruits, and nutrient-rich additives, like seeds and protein powders. Don’t hesitate to ask for vegan options when ordering.
Remember to confirm that the items you’re interested in are vegan. Enjoy indulging in these delightful treats and specialty items while exploring Asheville!
Vegan Friendly Places for a Date
Asheville is a haven for vegan food lovers looking for a romantic date night or a special occasion. With its variety of vegan-friendly cafes and restaurants, you and your significant other will be spoilt for choice. Here are a few suggestions for a memorable vegan dining experience:
Laughing Seed Cafe: This highly-regarded vegetarian cafe has served organic cuisine with an international flair for over two decades. Located downtown, you can enjoy a farm-to-table lunch or dinner every day except Tuesdays. Its intimate atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a cozy date night.
Plant Vegan Restaurant: Offering mouth-watering American vegan dishes, this trendy spot is perfect for a chic date night. With its modern decor and creative menu options, you can be sure of an exceptional dining experience.
Green Sage Cafe: If you’re looking for a more casual date option, Green Sage Cafe is the place to go. Known for its healthy offerings, this cafe is an excellent choice for a laid-back afternoon or evening with your loved one.
A few other options worth considering:
- Jargon: This contemporary American restaurant offers a wide range of vegan options in its menu. Don’t miss out on their delectable dishes and unique ambiance.
- The Corner Kitchen: Located near the Biltmore, this hidden gem serves delicious vegan dishes and provides a warm setting for a lovely date.
- Mellow Mushroom: Craving pizza? Head to Mellow Mushroom, where you can indulge in delicious vegan pizza and enjoy a fun, relaxed atmosphere.
Remember these recommendations when planning your next date night or special occasion in Asheville. With so many vegan-friendly cafes and restaurants in the area, you’re guaranteed to find the perfect spot to enjoy a romantic meal with your partner.
Asheville’s Vegan Breakfasts
If you’re looking for vegan breakfast options in Asheville, you’re in luck! This city is brimming with delightful vegan and vegetarian spots that cater to your morning cravings. Here are some spots to satisfy your vegan breakfast desires, from juice bars to cozy cafes.
Pulp and Sprout is a dedicated vegan cafe in North Asheville offering both breakfast and lunch options. Here, you can enjoy cold-pressed juices and mouthwatering vegan treats. It’s a great place to start your day with a refreshing juice or a hearty, delicious meal.
Moving on to Early Girl Eatery in downtown Asheville, this vegetarian-friendly restaurant offers Southern-style breakfast and brunch. They’ve designed their menu with options for vegans and omnivores. If you’re seeking a delicious vegan breakfast in a charming atmosphere, check out this place.
Another popular favorite among locals and tourists alike is Sunny Point Café. They pride themselves on their Southern-inspired breakfast and brunch options with a creative twist. Your taste buds will surely thank you after trying their vegan-friendly offerings.
Don’t forget about Eden-Out, a 100% vegan bulk-prepared meal delivery service that uses locally sourced organic ingredients. If you’re in a rush and prefer a quick bite, this is an excellent option for a healthy, vegan breakfast conveniently delivered to your doorstep.
Finally, the Asheville Vegan Society’s dining guide is a treasure trove of vegan-friendly restaurants worth exploring, including many that cater to your morning hunger pangs. Be sure to glance at it and discover even more delightful vegan breakfast spots in Asheville.
So, there you have it! Asheville has no shortage of vegan breakfast delights waiting for you. Whether it’s a casual juice bar, a sit-down brunch, or a meal delivery service, Asheville has got you covered. Enjoy your vegan breakfast adventures in this beautiful city!
Specialty Dishes in Asheville Restaurants
Asheville has a diverse range of vegan offerings that will have your taste buds dancing. One can find a variety of dishes such as tempeh, cauliflower, seitan, tofu, and even vegan lasagna. Let’s take a culinary tour through some of the city’s best vegan dishes, all while considering options catering to gluten-free diets.
You won’t miss trying out the tempeh reuben from Plant Vegan Restaurant. This popular Asheville eatery boasts a delicious take on this classic sandwich, layering marinated tempeh, sauerkraut, and a tangy sauce between two slices of rye bread. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or a curious foodie, the tempeh reuben will be a hit.
Exploring the world of tacos in Asheville, you’re in for a treat with Cauliflower Tacos from The Corner Kitchen. These flavor-packed tacos combine spicy, roasted cauliflower with pickled onions, avocado crema, and cilantro. They’re perfect for a mouthwatering lunch or a light dinner, and they happen to be gluten-free!
Now, let’s talk about seitan – commonly used as mock meat in many vegan dishes due to its savory, hearty texture. At Jargon, you can find a delightful seitan entrée that will impress even the most devout meat-eater. Paired with seasonal vegetables and a luscious sauce, this dish will leave you marveling at how delicious vegan cuisine can be.
For some Italian flair, dive into a delicious vegan lasagna at any of Asheville’s vegan-friendly restaurants featuring pasta as a mainstay. Pair it with a fresh salad and a slice of gluten-free garlic bread to complete your meal.
Finally, tofu-based dishes abound in Asheville’s vegan scene. Whether stir-fried, baked, or grilled, tofu is often a favorite ingredient among chefs seeking to create satisfying, protein-packed entrees. Keep an eye out for creative tofu dishes on the menus of the local eateries and indulge in something healthy and delicious.
With such a variety of specialty dishes available, there’s no doubt that Asheville is a vegan food haven. So, next time you find yourself in town, don’t hesitate to sample the culinary delights these vegan restaurants offer!
Local Favorites
Laughing Seed Cafe
If you’re a vegan or vegetarian, you must visit Laughing Seed Cafe located in Asheville. It’s a cozy restaurant that serves a variety of dishes influenced by international cuisine made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. On their menu, you can find wholesome options such as the Harmony Bowl which includes grains, veggies, and tofu, and lighter options like the flavorful Thai Coconut Soup. Moreover, don’t miss out on trying one of their delicious vegan desserts!
Green Sage Cafe
Another local favorite, Green Sage Cafe, has various plant-based options to satisfy your hunger. Their healthy smoothies and cold-pressed juices are perfect for a refreshing pick-me-up, while their wholesome bowls, salads, and wraps make for a satisfying meal. Green Sage Cafe’s Grilled Avocado Reuben will hit the spot if you’re in the mood for a tasty sandwich. Plus, they serve brunch on the weekend, making it the ideal spot for a delicious vegan breakfast or lunch.
Greens Restaurant
Lastly, Greens Restaurant offers a unique and eclectic plant-based dining experience. Showcasing various cuisines from around the globe, their menu boasts vegan twists on classic dishes like BBQ Jackfruit Tacos or Hungarian-inspired Vegan Goulash. The friendly atmosphere and the flavorful food make it a must-try vegan spot in Asheville.
So, next time you find yourself in Asheville, check out these vegan hotspots to enjoy some truly incredible plant-based cuisine. Happy eating!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top vegan-friendly restaurants in Asheville?
Asheville is a haven for vegan food lovers. Some of the top vegan-friendly restaurants include:
- Jargon
- The Corner Kitchen
- Plant Vegan Restaurant
- Laughing Seed Cafe
- Inconceivable Cafe
These restaurants offer a variety of delicious vegan dishes with unique flavors that cater to different preferences.
Where can I find a vegan brunch in Asheville?
You can check out Sunny Point Cafe in West Asheville for a delightful vegan brunch in Asheville. While it isn’t an entirely vegan restaurant, it offers vegan substitutions and options to transform its dishes into vegan-friendly meals.
Are there any vegan bakeries in Asheville?
Asheville does not seem to have a dedicated vegan bakery. However, many cafes and restaurants serve vegan baked goods, so you can still enjoy a variety of sweet vegan treats around town.
What is the best vegan breakfast spot in Asheville?
Sunny Point Cafe is a great option for a vegan breakfast in Asheville. With multiple vegan substitutions and options, you can enjoy a delicious vegan meal to kickstart your day.
Can you recommend a vegan food truck in Asheville?
While no specific vegan food trucks are known to us, Asheville’s food truck scene is constantly evolving. Finding a food truck with vegan options or even a dedicated vegan truck wouldn’t be surprising. Keep an eye out for updates on vegan offerings around Asheville, and explore the city to discover fresh vegan options.
Where is The Plant vegan restaurant located in Asheville?
The Plant Vegan Restaurant is at 165 Merrimon Avenue, Asheville, NC, 28801. This restaurant offers a diverse menu of entirely plant-based dishes, making it an excellent option for vegans and non-vegans.
