WalletHub’s latest report has highlighted the most vegan-friendly cities in the US, providing a comprehensive look at how cities cater to plant-based lifestyles.
The study considered various factors including the number of vegan restaurants, the availability of vegan-friendly grocery stores, the cost of vegan groceries, and the overall attitude towards veganism within each city.
Why Celebrating These Cities Matters
In a nation where dietary habits are linked to health issues such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, recognizing cities that promote vegan-friendly environments is more important than ever.
The typical American diet is heavily centered around animal products, which can contribute to various health problems. Embracing veganism not only offers a healthier alternative but also supports sustainable and ethical food choices.
Cities that prioritize vegan options are setting a positive example by encouraging more people to consider plant-based diets, which have been shown to lower the risk of chronic diseases and reduce environmental impact.
Celebrating these cities highlights their efforts in creating accessible and appealing plant-based dining options, making it easier for individuals to make healthier choices. By focusing on these urban centers, we acknowledge and support their role in shaping a more health-conscious and environmentally friendly future.
Top 20 Cities for Vegans
Based on WalletHub’s research, here are the top 20 cities for vegans in 2024, along with a special vegan restaurant to check out in each location.
1. Portland, Oregon
Portland continues to lead with its innovative and eclectic vegan dining scene. The city’s commitment to sustainability and local produce makes it a haven for plant-based eaters.
Top pick for vegan dining: Mirisata – A relaxed, BIPOC worker-owned restaurant offering an all-vegan menu of Sri Lankan specialties, including a popular Sunday brunch.
Runner-ups: Daily Fuel – hole food, plant-based; Blossoming Lotus – Healthy organic vegan foods; Jade Rabbit – Pan-Asian vegan comfort foods; Fortune – Plant-based bar and lounge.
2. Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles remains a hotspot for diverse and delicious vegan cuisine, reflecting its health-conscious and trendsetting culture. With countless options from casual to upscale, there’s something for everyone.
Top pick for vegan dining: Crossroads Kitchen – A sophisticated plant-based dining experience featuring inventive Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. Be sure to try the fresh pasta made daily in-house, and the exquisite artichoke oysters.
3. Orlando, Florida
Orlando’s vegan options are rapidly expanding, thanks to a growing community and increased demand. The city’s culinary scene now features many exciting plant-based choices.
Top pick for vegan dining: Dharma Southern Chick’n – delicious vegan southern chick’n sandwiches and plant-based takes of southern favorites, such as Mac n cheese.
4. San Diego, California
San Diego’s warm climate and laid-back vibe extend to its vegan dining scene, which features a wealth of delicious and innovative options. It’s a great city for enjoying plant-based food by the beach.
Top pick for vegan dining: KINDRED – A unique blend of retro ambiance and inventive plant-based cuisine with a focus on bold, global flavors. Don’t miss out on their beet risotto and caramelized banana pancakes—they’re must-tries!
5. Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix is becoming increasingly vegan-friendly with a growing selection of plant-based eateries and grocery stores. The city’s culinary scene is embracing diverse vegan flavors.
Top pick for vegan dining: The Coronado PHX – A modern dining experience featuring an eclectic menu with a focus on upscale plant-based dishes and locally sourced ingredients.
6. San Francisco, California
San Francisco’s dedication to sustainability and diverse food culture supports a thriving vegan scene. The city is renowned for its high-quality plant-based dining options.
Top pick for vegan dining: Wildseed – A vibrant spot offering creative plant-based cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Perfect brunch and date night place.
7. Seattle, Washington
Seattle’s growing vegan community is reflected in its dynamic and diverse dining options. The city offers a range of vegan spots that cater to various tastes and preferences.
Top pick for vegan dining: Harvest Beat – A seasonal dining experience featuring inventive plant-based dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients. We highly recommend trying their renowned 5-course vegan meal.
8. Miami, Florida
Miami’s vibrant food culture now includes a variety of exciting vegan options, making it a fantastic destination for plant-based diners. The city’s diverse culinary landscape offers something for everyone.
Top pick for vegan dining: Vegan Cuban Cuisine – A vibrant eatery serving traditional Cuban dishes with a modern, plant-based twist.
9. Oakland, California
Oakland’s progressive vibe is mirrored in its diverse vegan options. The city offers a variety of plant-based spots that cater to different tastes and preferences.
Top pick for vegan dining: Rico Rico Vegano – A vibrant eatery serving flavorful, plant-based versions of traditional Latin American dishes. (For fine dining, we recommend Millenium)
10. Austin, Texas
Austin’s dynamic food scene embraces vegan cuisine with many excellent eateries reflecting the city’s creative and eclectic spirit. It’s a great place to explore innovative plant-based food.
Top pick for vegan dining: Rebel Cheese – A unique Austin spot specializing in artisanal, plant-based cheeses with bold flavors and creative pairings. (Runner-up: Bouldin Creek Cafe)
11. Lexington-Fayette, Kentucky
Lexington-Fayette’s vegan scene is expanding with new and exciting dining options that reflect the city’s growing commitment to plant-based eating.
Top pick for vegan dining: Moody Mike’s – A lively spot offering inventive plant-based comfort food with a focus on bold flavors and a fun, relaxed atmosphere.
12. Tampa, Florida
Tampa’s vegan community is flourishing, with a variety of plant-based eateries making their mark on the city’s food scene. It’s an excellent destination for discovering new vegan flavors.
Top pick for vegan dining: Florish – A modern Tampa eatery featuring a creative plant-based menu with fresh pizza and grain bowls, emphasizing locally sourced ingredients and vibrant flavors.
13. Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas impresses with its diverse vegan dining experiences, ranging from casual spots to upscale eateries. The city’s culinary scene continues to embrace plant-based options.
Top pick for vegan dining: Chef Kenny’s Vegan Dim Sum – A specialized eatery offering a wide array of plant-based dim sum with an emphasis on authentic flavors and creative twists.
14. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago’s diverse food scene includes a wide array of vegan options, reflecting the city’s rich culinary landscape. There are plenty of places to enjoy plant-based dining in the Windy City.
Top pick for vegan dining: The Chicago Diner – A renowned spot for classic and creative plant-based comfort food, featuring standout dishes like Blueberry Pancakes and Reuben Rolls.
15. Fort Wayne, Indiana
Fort Wayne is seeing a growth in vegan dining options, with several noteworthy spots catering to plant-based diets. The city is becoming more accommodating to vegan lifestyles.
Top pick for vegan dining: The Loving Cafe – Known for its flavorful vegan comfort food, it’s a popular choice for hearty meals.
16. Louisville, Kentucky
Louisville’s vegan scene is becoming more diverse, with new spots offering a range of plant-based options. The city’s food culture is increasingly inclusive of vegan choices.
Top pick for vegan dining: Heart & Soy – A relaxed spot specializing in vegetarian and vegan Asian-fusion dishes with an extensive tea selection (Roots also offering its own distinct menu in the same space).
17. Washington, DC
Washington, D.C. boasts a dynamic vegan food scene with a variety of choices for plant-based diners. The city’s progressive values are reflected in its diverse vegan offerings.
Top pick for vegan dining: DC Vegan – A fully vegan delicatessen in Washington, D.C., featuring Italian American-inspired sandwiches, bowls, and salads, along with cheeses and daily deli and bakery case specials.
18. Irving, Texas
Irving offers a growing number of vegan-friendly dining spots that cater to a variety of tastes. The city is becoming increasingly welcoming to plant-based eaters.
Top pick for vegan dining: Bam’s Vegan – A Black-owned eatery offering hot food specials like Jackfruit Pot Roast, BBQ Cauliflower, and Mac & Cheese, along with customizable smoothies and bowls.
19. Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta’s thriving vegan community is supported by numerous dining options that cater to diverse preferences. The city’s food scene is embracing plant-based dining with enthusiasm.
Top pick for vegan dining: Slutty Vegan – A Black-owned, trendy counter-service spot serving up indulgent plant-based burgers loaded with toppings and a variety of other satisfying vegan dishes.
20. St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis is growing in its vegan dining options, offering a range of plant-based choices that reflect the city’s evolving food culture.
Top pick for vegan dining: Tree House – A popular eatery serving organic plant-based dishes such as Chikn Fried Katsu Sandwich, Vegan Veggie Loaf, and Pasta Florentine. (Runner-up: Bombay Food Junkies)
Why Isn’t New York City on the List?
Despite its reputation as a global culinary hub, New York City does not appear in the top 20 for vegan-friendly cities in 2024 according to WalletHub’s criteria.
This is partly because the city’s high cost of living can make vegan groceries and dining more expensive, and the sheer number of options can sometimes make it challenging to stand out in the rankings.
Additionally, while NYC offers many vegan options, other cities have recently made strides in vegan-friendly infrastructure and affordability, which may have contributed to their higher rankings.
The top 20 vegan-friendly cities above not only offer a wide range of vegan dining options but also create environments that support and celebrate plant-based lifestyles. Whether you’re a dedicated vegan or simply exploring plant-based cuisine, these cities have something special to offer.
