Introduction
St. Louis, a city known for its rich culinary heritage and Midwestern charm, is rapidly becoming a haven for plant-based eaters. Gone are the days when vegan options were limited to a side salad or a sad veggie burger. The vegan scene in St. Louis is booming, with innovative chefs and passionate restaurateurs creating delicious and diverse plant-based menus that rival even the most traditional fare. Whether you’re a long-time vegan, a curious vegetarian, or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, St. Louis has something to offer. The increasing awareness about ethical and environmental issues related to food production has led to a surge in demand for vegan cuisine. This guide highlights some of the absolute best vegan restaurants in St. Louis, catering to a variety of tastes and budgets. These establishments were carefully selected based on food quality, atmosphere, service, and overall value, ensuring a truly satisfying dining experience. Get ready to explore the culinary wonders of the Gateway to the West, one delicious vegan dish at a time!
Seedz Cafe
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Nestled in the heart of University City, Seedz Cafe is a long-time favorite among St. Louis vegans. This vibrant cafe offers a completely plant-based menu packed with creative sandwiches, flavorful bowls, and decadent desserts. With a cozy atmosphere and a commitment to using organic and locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, Seedz Cafe is a true gem.
One must-try dish is the Tempeh Reuben. This vegan twist on a classic sandwich features thinly sliced tempeh, sauerkraut, vegan Swiss cheese, and a tangy Thousand Island dressing, all piled high on grilled rye bread. The tempeh is perfectly seasoned and provides a satisfyingly chewy texture, while the sauerkraut adds a delightful tang. Another standout is the Macro Bowl, a hearty and nutritious combination of brown rice, beans, steamed vegetables, avocado, and a flavorful tahini dressing. Don’t forget to save room for dessert! Seedz Cafe offers a rotating selection of vegan cakes, cookies, and brownies that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
What makes Seedz Cafe special is its commitment to creating food that is both delicious and good for you. They prioritize using high-quality, organic ingredients and offer a menu that is packed with nutrients. The cafe also has a welcoming and laid-back atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a casual lunch or dinner.
Pros: Delicious and nutritious vegan food, organic and locally sourced ingredients, cozy atmosphere, friendly service.
Cons: Can get crowded during peak hours.
Overall Recommendation: Seedz Cafe is a must-visit for anyone looking for delicious and healthy vegan food in St. Louis.
Terror Tacos
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For a totally different vibe, head over to Terror Tacos. This completely vegan restaurant is a must-visit, providing a vibrant haven for those seeking delicious, cruelty-free cuisine. They have become well-known for their unique and innovative vegan tacos, and their menu also includes creative burritos, bowls, and appetizers.
Their tacos are a symphony of flavors and textures, with options like the Jackfruit Carnitas taco, featuring tender jackfruit marinated in a smoky, savory sauce, topped with pickled onions and cilantro. Also a must-try is the Seitan Asada Taco, which is tender and juicy, that is reminiscent of traditional carne asada.
What makes Terror Tacos special is its fun atmosphere, friendly service, and commitment to quality, plant-based ingredients. The restaurant’s commitment to sustainability is admirable. They work with local farmers and vendors to reduce waste whenever possible.
Pros: Delicious and flavorful vegan Mexican food, creative menu options, casual and fun atmosphere, friendly staff.
Cons: Can get busy during peak hours; limited seating.
Overall Recommendation: Terror Tacos is a must-try for anyone seeking authentic Mexican flavors in a plant-based package in Saint Louis.
Lulu’s Local Eatery
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Located in the Grand Arts District, Lulu’s Local Eatery is a farm-to-table restaurant with a strong commitment to sustainability and delicious, plant-forward cuisine. While not entirely vegan, Lulu’s offers a robust vegan menu with creative and flavorful options.
One of their most popular vegan dishes is the Vegan Bahn Mi. The restaurant offers jackfruit that is well seasoned that gives an explosion of Asian-inspired flavors in every bite. The Tempeh Ribs are another great choice for individuals who want to enjoy that great BBQ taste with a plant based protein.
Lulu’s Local Eatery’s farm-to-table philosophy ensures that only the freshest, seasonal ingredients are used in their dishes. The restaurant also has a lively and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great spot for a casual dinner with friends or family.
Pros: Fresh, seasonal ingredients, creative vegan options, farm-to-table philosophy, lively atmosphere.
Cons: Can be a bit pricier than other casual vegan options.
Overall Recommendation: Lulu’s Local Eatery is a great choice for those seeking a delicious and sustainable dining experience with plenty of vegan options.
Dixie’s Home Cookin’
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For down-home comfort food that is entirely vegan, Dixie’s Home Cookin’ is an absolute must! Located in the Cherokee neighborhood, Dixie’s is a haven for southern-style vegan eats. Their menu is packed with favorites like vegan fried chicken, mac and cheese, and collard greens.
The Vegan Fried Chicken is a star. Using seitan to mimc the taste and texture of chicken, it is crispy and delicious. The Mac and Cheese is decadent and full of vegan cheese.
Dixie’s offers a welcoming atmosphere, great service, and large portions!
Pros: Delicious vegan comfort food, great service, and huge portions.
Cons: There are not a lot of healthy options on the menu.
Overall Recommendation: Head over to Dixie’s if you have a hankering for that comfort taste!
SweetArt
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While not exclusively a restaurant, SweetArt is a must-mention for any vegan with a sweet tooth. This charming bakery and cafe in the Shaw neighborhood offers a delightful array of vegan cakes, cookies, pastries, and other treats.
From cupcakes to cookies, everything is delicious! The cookies are delicious and come in a variety of flavors.
SweetArt is a local gem. The staff is friendly, the prices are reasonable, and the treats are out of this world.
Pros: Delicious vegan desserts, creative and unique flavors, charming atmosphere, friendly staff.
Cons: Can get busy on weekends.
Overall Recommendation: If you have a sweet tooth, SweetArt is a must-visit. Their vegan desserts are some of the best in the city.
Vegan Resources in St. Louis
Beyond the incredible restaurants listed above, St. Louis offers a variety of resources for vegans and those interested in exploring plant-based eating. Local grocery stores like Schnucks, Dierbergs, and Whole Foods Market all have dedicated vegan sections with a wide selection of plant-based products, including vegan cheeses, meats, and dairy-free alternatives.
For those looking to connect with other vegans in the area, several meetup groups and organizations offer events, workshops, and support. Keep an eye out for vegan festivals and events throughout the year, showcasing the best of St. Louis’s plant-based culinary scene.
Tips for Eating Vegan in St. Louis
Even when dining at non-vegan restaurants, it’s often possible to find delicious and satisfying vegan options. Don’t be afraid to ask your server about vegan modifications to menu items. Many restaurants are happy to accommodate dietary restrictions and can often substitute ingredients or prepare dishes without animal products.
When in doubt, focus on dishes that are naturally plant-based, such as salads, vegetable stir-fries, or grain bowls. Be sure to ask about sauces and dressings, as they may contain dairy or eggs. With a little bit of creativity and communication, you can enjoy a delicious vegan meal at almost any restaurant in St. Louis.
Conclusion
The vegan food scene in St. Louis is thriving, offering a diverse and delicious array of plant-based options to suit every taste and budget. From upscale fine dining to casual cafes and decadent dessert shops, the city has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re a long-time vegan or simply curious about exploring plant-based eating, St. Louis is a culinary destination that is sure to delight.
Explore the restaurants mentioned in this guide and discover your own favorites. The options in Saint Louis are endless. What are your favorite vegan restaurants in St. Louis? Share them in the comments below! The Gateway to the West is embracing plant-based cuisine, and it’s a trend worth celebrating! The vibrant vegan food scene is constantly evolving, so it’s always worth returning for more delicious discoveries.
