Denver's culinary scene is a plant-based paradise, with an ever-growing number of vegan restaurants that'll tantalize your taste buds. Whether you're a seasoned vegan or just dabbling in plant-based eating, The Mile High City's offerings range from hearty comfort foods to innovative, light dishes that'll leave you craving more.
We're diving into the best vegan spots in Denver that are a must-visit for any food lover. Get ready to explore a world where delectable vegan main courses, creamy ice creams, and sushi alternatives are not just menu options, but stars that shine bright in Denver's food universe. Join us as we uncover the flavors and costs that make these eateries stand out in the vibrant vegan landscape.
Wellness Sushi
Discover Denver’s first 100% vegan sushi experience at Wellness Sushi located in the neighborhood of Capitol Hill. Renowned for transforming traditional sushi into innovative vegan masterpieces, it's the perfect spot for an extraordinary culinary adventure.
Enjoy an array of vegan sushi rolls, onigiri, and hot ramen that will tantalize your taste buds. Imagine the best sushi you’ve ever had; now picture it vegan. That's what Wellness Sushi delivers with every dish they expertly prepare. Whether you're a seasoned vegan or looking to impress a non-vegan friend, this sushi haven won’t disappoint.
The restaurant's commitment to both flavor and sustainability is evident in every roll, making it a guilt-free dining choice for those conscious about their impact on the planet. Dive into their menu at 2504 E Colfax Ave and relish what vegan sushi has to offer.
Watercourse Foods
At Watercourse Foods, Denver’s pioneer in vegan dining, you'll find a menu brimming with plant-based innovations. Imagine cauliflower Buffalo wings that almost deceive the eye, paired with a blue cheese dressing devoid of dairy yet full of flavor. Addictive and satisfying, these wings set a high standard for vegan comfort food.
Beyond appetizers, dive into a burrito smothered in green chile that envelops black beans, potatoes, chorizo-style tempeh, and a sprinkle of dairy-free cotija cheese. Hearty and flavor-packed, this dish is a testament to the restaurant's ability to satisfy even the most voracious appetites without a trace of animal-derived ingredients.
For sandwich enthusiasts, the seitan-based options are a standout. Ranging from veggie-walnut burgers on Kaiser rolls to a faux-Cubano, the textures and flavors mimic their meaty counterparts so well, you'll savor each bite. The Big Rig, a monster-packed platter with seitan and tofu, masquerades as country-fried steak and eggs, complete with a biscuit, challenging any skeptic's perception of vegan cuisine.
In addition to these dishes, the selection of salads and beverages from the full bar ensure there's something to suit your taste. Whether you’re in for a light meal or a full-on feast, Watercourse Foods caters to your cravings, all while maintaining a commitment to sustainability and plant-based innovation.
Somebody People
Exploring Denver's vegan dining must-haves, Somebody People emerges as a standout experience. This plant-filled, colorful space radiates a cute, cozy atmosphere perfectly paired with its Mediterranean-inspired menu. You'll marvel at the innovative dishes rooted in veggie-forward thinking with not a single faux meat in sight. Their Carrot Bolognese, tossed with funghetto pasta, grilled oyster mushrooms, and zesty chimichurri is a culinary masterpiece, capturing the essence of Mediterranean flavors without compromising the integrity of plant-based dining.
Somebody People, not only excels at savory dishes but also offers sweet indulgences like tiramisu donuts that you might find irresistible. Handcrafted ice creams in flavors like mole, basil, and pink peppercorn underscore their commitment to creativity. Pair your meal with an eclectic selection of beverages ranging from CBD sodas to zero-proof cocktails, firmly placing this venue on the map for conscientious eaters and lifestyle enthusiasts alike.
At 1165 South Broadway, you'll find a vibrant hub at Somebody People, where the plant-based culinary experience is redefining vegan gastronomy in Denver. Whether it's a regular dinner, a special occasion, or a treat-yourself outing, this zero-waste restaurant thrives on providing memorable flavors while advocating for a sustainable future.
City O' City
When you're roaming the energetic streets of Denver seeking out vegan delights, City O' City can't be missed. This restaurant is a local icon, adored for its eclectic atmosphere and robust vegan menu. From 7 am to 2 am, this haven offers comfort food with a twist. Imagine biting into the crunch of a Chicken & Waffles dish, except here it's bourbon-brined, chicken-fried cauliflower. Drizzled with bourbon maple syrup and garnished with chive crème fraîche and carrot bacon, it's a crowd favorite.
Their Pastrami Sandwich is a vegan's dream—seitan pastrami nestled between slices of marbled rye, rivaling the traditional meaty deli staple. City O' City effortlessly shows that plant-based can mean full flavor with every bite. The menu clearly indicates vegan and gluten-free options, providing peace of mind and unadulterated enjoyment for all dietary needs.
As morning rolls in, their breakfast offerings steal the limelight, served until 2 pm. Tofu in place of eggs, tempeh bacon, or a Breakfast Burrito—each option is a testament to the chef's creativity with vegan ingredients. City O' City's diverse menu, which includes organic tofu and tempeh as well as house-made ancient grain creations, ensures your culinary journey is both gratifying and memorable. With limitless topping options over rice or locally-sourced greens, your perfect plate is waiting to be discovered.
Vital Root
Exploring the thriving vegan scene in Denver leads you to Vital Root, a fast-casual eatery that's setting a new standard for plant-based dining. This isn't your typical vegan joint; it's a culinary haven where vegetable-focused cuisine takes center stage. Whether you're vegan or just veggie-curious, your palate is in for a treat.
Imagine diving into dishes that embody sustainability and global flavors—all while sitting on a gorgeous back terrace, surrounded by tranquil vertical gardens. Vital Root ensures that every meal is not only a delight to the senses but also kind to the planet. You'll find the menu rife with creative twists like the Kitchari Bowl and Sunflower Risotto—both chef-driven and sustainably-sourced.
Here are some highlights of what Vital Root offers:
- Exclusively vegan and gluten-free menu
- Family-friendly atmosphere with a fast-casual vibe
- Sweeteners derived from coconut and maple, giving desserts a natural twist
- A serene outdoor dining experience on a plant-adorned back terrace
At Vital Root, affordability pairs perfectly with quality. Expect to spend around $30 for a meal for two, which is fairly reasonable considering the specialty offerings.
| Food Options | Service | Price Range (for 2) |
|---|---|---|
| Vegan, Gluten-free | Dine-in, Curbside pickup, No-contact delivery | $30 |
Moreover, convenience is also paramount. Need to grab a bite on the go? Order via Uber Eats or Postmates to enjoy Vital Root's nourishing earth food wherever you please. With options like these, it's clear that Vital Root isn't just a restaurant—it's a lifestyle choice that caters to conscious eaters looking for taste and sustenance.
Sputnik
When the usual greens won't cut it and you're craving something with edge, you'll find Sputnik serving up ingenuity in its bites. This spot is a haven for vegan comfort food, offering a no-frills ambience merged with a menu that packs a flavorful punch. The vegan corn dog and mac and cheese are fan favorites, but don't overlook the brunch selections.
Imagine starting your day with Sputnik's Stacks of Vegan Power: quinoa cakes surrounded by fresh veggies, avocado, and a sneaky layer of potatoes drenched in creamy garlic sauce. To elevate this dish to the next level, the chimichurri sauce is an absolute must—its bold zest turns the meal into an unforgettable experience.
Beyond brunch, the entire menu is adaptable to vegan preferences, save for the lone grilled cheese. This characteristic makes Sputnik a standout, ensuring there's something for every vegan palate. While it may be a hole-in-the-wall, Sputnik shines as a gem within Denver's vegan tapestry.
Wong Way Food Truck
As you explore Denver's dynamic vegan eats, don't miss the Wong Way Food Truck. Renowned for being the best vegan food truck in the area, it's a mobile culinary delight you'll find year-round. Their ever-changing menu is so enticing, making each visit a new experience. Be sure to catch them on Wednesdays outside of Nooch Vegan Market on South Broadway.
If Sunday brunch is more your style, they're parked outside Alternation Brewing Co, serving up mouthwatering options. The innovation doesn't stop there; if the Fish and Chips are on the board, they are a must-try—crafted from battered banana blossoms, the texture mimics real fish uncannily.
Keep an eye on their calendar to spot them at various locales across Denver. With food this good, it's worth planning your week around where Wong Way will pop up next. Whether you're a long-time vegan or just dipping your toes into plant-based dining, this food truck is a destination that promises satisfaction with every visit.
Meta Burger
If you're in the mood for American diner-style comfort food, don't miss out on Meta Burger. Plant-based eaters and meat lovers alike rave about the burger selection s at this all-vegan hotspot. Their signature Flatirons Burger, brimming with a delicious mix of shaved Brussels sprouts, shallots, grilled mushrooms, and melty vegan Gouda, snagged the title of Best Burger in America at the 2018 Seed & Wine Festival.
When you visit Meta Burger, you're greeted with an array of choices:
- Housemade soy-based meat patties
- Veggie patties
- Vegan chicken patties
One bite of their scrumptious vegan mozzarella sticks, perfectly paired with a zesty marinara dip, and you’ll understand why they're among the best in the city.
For a unique twist, give their Meta Bites a try—breaded baked potato bites with a punch of flavor, topped with vegan bacon and chives, and nestled beside a rich serving of nacho cheese. It's a satisfying complement to any meal.
Meta Burger's success isn't solely about taste; it's also their dedication to creating a comforting experience that echoes the familiarity of classic American dining, all while maintaining a commitment to sustainability and plant-based nutrition.
Hoja (TEMPORARILY CLOSED)
Nestled in the heart of Denver, Hoja emerges as a gem for those seeking a vibrant twist on plant-based dining. As a progeny of the successful food truck, Basecamp Provisions, Hoja's reputation has been nurtured through a commitment to fresh and inventive Mexican cuisine. This quaint cafe is adorned with white walls, terra cotta pots, and cacti, setting a scene reminiscent of a serene Santa Fe side street.
When you step into Hoja, you're met with an aesthetic ambiance that extends to a menu brimming with vegetarian Mexican delicacies—each dish an opportunity to indulge in a guilt-free culinary adventure. From the ease of a grab-and-go breakfast burrito to the delight of leisurely savoring Chilaquiles or Enfrijoladas, each meal is an experience accompanied by an array of fancy drinks.
Despite its compact space that includes an open kitchen and around six tables, Hoja exemplifies how a tighter squeeze can enhance an intimate dining experience. As you relish your meals, which are framed by artful decor, it's the essence of Mexican flavor enfolded in vegetarian selections that propels Hoja into the spotlight—daringly proving that even the smallest restaurants can leave a substantial impact on Denver's vegan food landscape.
Grateful Planet Foods Food Truck
When you're scouting for diverse vegan options on the go, Grateful Planet Foods Food Truck is one of Denver's gems you shouldn't miss. Known for its quirky fusion and locally-sourced ingredients, this food truck brings a different spin to vegan cuisine. Their ever-evolving menu ensures there's always something new to try each time you visit.
Street food normally wouldn't be associated with health-conscious dining, but Grateful Planet defies that notion. From meatless tacos to artisanal sandwiches, their offerings are packed with flavor without compromising on nutritional value. It's the perfect spot for both vegan food veterans and those just dipping their toes into plant-based eating.
Their commitment to sustainability goes beyond the plate. They operate with eco-friendly practices, using biodegradable packaging and minimizing food waste, making every bite guilt-free on multiple levels. Grab a bite when you're on the move and enjoy the varied tastes of Denver's street food, reimagined for the conscious eater.
Conclusion
You've got plenty of reasons to explore Denver's vegan scene, from innovative food trucks like Grateful Planet Foods to a variety of sit-down eateries that cater to your plant-based preferences. Whether you're a seasoned vegan or just dipping your toes into the world of meatless cuisine, Denver's culinary landscape is sure to impress with its commitment to flavor, variety, and sustainability. So next time you're in the Mile High City, treat your taste buds to the vegan delights that are waiting around every corner. Bon appétit!