Craving a delicious and ethical breakfast in the Windy City? Think vegan breakfast is limited and boring? Chicago is about to change your mind. The city’s vibrant food scene, known for its innovative chefs and diverse culinary offerings, extends far beyond deep-dish pizza and hot dogs. Chicago is a haven for plant-based eaters, and its vegan breakfast scene is thriving with options to satisfy any craving, from sweet treats to savory delights.
This guide highlights some of Chicago’s most delicious and satisfying vegan breakfast spots, catering to a range of tastes and budgets. Get ready to discover the incredible world of vegan breakfast in Chicago, and find your new favorite morning indulgence.
Why Vegan Breakfast in Chicago is the Perfect Start
The rise of veganism and plant-based eating has swept across the nation, and Chicago has embraced the movement with open arms. More and more people are recognizing the benefits of a plant-based diet, whether for health reasons, ethical considerations, or environmental concerns. Lucky for Chicagoans and visitors alike, the city has responded with a remarkable array of vegan options, making it easy to find delicious and satisfying plant-based meals.
A vegan breakfast offers a fantastic way to start your day feeling energized and nourished. Plant-based breakfasts are often packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, providing sustained energy without the sugar crashes that can come with traditional breakfasts. Plus, choosing a vegan breakfast aligns with values of compassion and sustainability. But most importantly, vegan breakfast in Chicago is delicious and fulfilling.
Discovering Chicago’s Vegan Breakfast Gems
Now, let’s dive into some of the best spots to find a truly amazing vegan breakfast in Chicago:
Handlebar
Tucked away in Wicker Park, Handlebar is a long-time favorite for vegetarian and vegan diners. The atmosphere is warm, inviting, and unpretentious, making it the perfect spot for a casual and satisfying breakfast. While not exclusively vegan, Handlebar boasts an extensive vegan menu with plenty of breakfast options.
One of their standout vegan breakfast dishes is the vegan breakfast burrito. This hearty burrito is packed with tofu scramble, black beans, potatoes, vegan cheese, and a flavorful salsa. It’s the perfect way to fuel up for a busy day exploring Chicago. Patrons rave about the generous portion size and the amazing flavor combination. “The breakfast burrito is my go-to! So filling and delicious,” shares one enthusiastic reviewer. The price range is very reasonable, making it an accessible option for everyone. Handlebar earns a spot on this list because of its reliable vegan options, delicious food, and welcoming atmosphere.
Native Foods
With multiple locations throughout the Chicago area, Native Foods is a popular choice for vegan comfort food, and their breakfast menu doesn’t disappoint. This fast-casual chain is entirely plant-based, so you can be confident that everything on the menu is vegan-friendly. Native Foods is perfect for a quick and convenient breakfast on the go.
Try the Native Breakfast Bowl, a customizable bowl with your choice of tempeh bacon, potatoes, scrambled tofu and more. Native Foods is a bit pricier than some of the other places on this list, but the quality of the ingredients and the flavorful dishes make it worth it. This chain makes the list because of its dedication to veganism and its convenient locations.
Upton’s Breakroom
Located in the West Town neighborhood, Upton’s Breakroom is the retail shop of Upton’s Naturals, a local company specializing in seitan. This is a great spot to enjoy a quick vegan breakfast. The Breakroom offers a range of vegan snacks and sandwiches, and other great things to eat on the go.
The vegan breakfast sandwich at Upton’s Breakroom has quickly become a fan favorite. The sandwich features seitan sausage, vegan cheese, and a flavorful sauce, all served on a toasted English muffin. It’s a simple but satisfying breakfast option that’s perfect for those who are short on time. Upton’s is reasonably priced and offers a quick and easy way to enjoy a vegan breakfast in Chicago. This is an awesome pick for its unique offering and commitment to creating a wide range of creative vegan foods.
Liberation Donuts
For those with a sweet tooth, Liberation Donuts is an absolute must-visit for a vegan breakfast in Chicago. Located on Chicago Avenue, this vegan donut shop creates unique and flavorful donuts. They offer a wide variety of rotating flavors, from classic glazed donuts to more adventurous creations like maple bacon and lavender earl grey.
Their vegan donuts are made fresh daily, using high-quality ingredients and innovative techniques. Customers consistently rave about the soft and fluffy texture of the donuts, as well as the creative and delicious flavors. “These are the best vegan donuts I’ve ever had! So many unique flavors to choose from,” exclaims one happy customer. While a donut might not be the most nutritious breakfast option, it’s certainly a delicious and indulgent way to start your day. Liberation Donuts earns a spot on this list for its commitment to creating exceptional vegan donuts that rival their non-vegan counterparts.
Do-Rite Donuts & Chicken (Select Vegan Options)
While not exclusively vegan, Do-Rite Donuts & Chicken deserves a mention because of its surprisingly delicious vegan donut options. With several locations throughout the city, Do-Rite is a convenient choice for a quick and sweet breakfast.
Do-Rite offers a rotating selection of vegan donuts, often featuring seasonal flavors and unique combinations. Be sure to check their daily menu to see what vegan options are available. While the vegan options may be limited, they are always well-executed and flavorful. The prices are comparable to other donut shops, making it an affordable option for a vegan treat. Do-Rite makes the list because it’s an easily-accessible option with really great vegan donuts.
Beyond the Restaurants: Creating Your Own Vegan Breakfast at Home
Chicago also offers plenty of resources for those who prefer to create their own vegan breakfast at home. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan chef or just starting out, you’ll find everything you need to whip up a delicious and satisfying plant-based meal.
Local grocery stores like Whole Foods Market and Trader Joe’s carry a wide variety of vegan ingredients, including tofu, tempeh, plant-based milks, and vegan cheeses. For more specialized vegan products, consider visiting stores like Vegan Essentials.
If you’re looking for fresh, local produce, be sure to check out Chicago’s many farmers’ markets. You’ll find a bounty of seasonal fruits, vegetables, and grains, perfect for creating a healthy and delicious vegan breakfast.
Easy Vegan Breakfast Ideas to Try at Home
Here are a couple of quick and easy vegan breakfast recipes to get you started:
- Overnight Oats: Combine rolled oats, plant-based milk, chia seeds, and your favorite toppings (such as berries, nuts, and seeds) in a jar or container. Refrigerate overnight, and enjoy a creamy and nutritious breakfast in the morning.
- Tofu Scramble: Crumble firm or extra-firm tofu into a pan with some oil. Add your favorite vegetables (such as onions, peppers, and spinach), along with seasonings like turmeric, garlic powder, and black pepper. Cook until the tofu is heated through and the vegetables are tender. Serve with toast or tortillas for a satisfying and savory breakfast.
Vegan Bakery Items to-go
Check out Mindy’s Bakery (multiple locations) for items like vegan bagels and vegan babka. A great option if you’re looking for quick and easy breakfast goodies.
A Delicious Vegan Breakfast Awaits in Chicago
Chicago’s vegan breakfast scene is thriving, offering a diverse and delicious range of options for plant-based eaters. From savory burritos to sweet donuts, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings. Whether you prefer to dine out at a vegan-friendly restaurant or create your own masterpiece at home, Chicago has everything you need to start your day with a healthy and ethical meal.
So, the next time you’re in Chicago, skip the ordinary and discover the delicious world of vegan breakfast! Check out these spots and let us know your favorites. The future of vegan food in Chicago is bright, and we can’t wait to see what delicious new creations emerge in the years to come. Enjoy your vegan breakfast adventure in the Windy City!
