It’s November when World Vegan Month is celebrated to promote veganism and raise awareness about animal rights, environmental sustainability, and ethical food choices. During the monthlong celebration, the benefits of a plant-based lifestyle, such as improved health and the need to take care of the planet, are highlighted.
Established in 1994 by The Vegan Society to mark its 50th anniversary, the month is filled with numerous events, such as cooking demonstrations, educational workshops, and vegan food festivals,
World Vegan Month has had an undeniable impact on the increasing popularity of veganism and how plant-based products are available throughout the nation, and the world.
To celebrate all the vegans and vegan-friendlies in the Philadelphia region, here are some of the top restaurants in Philly with world-class vegan options.
As the oldest and longest-running vegan restaurant in the city, the Nile Cafe is a staple. The succulent and diverse menu offers a vegan take on class soul food dishes with a Caribbean-American twist that includes jerk chick’n, Jamaican patties, chick’n & gravy, vegan cakes, and more. The restaurant also places an emphasis on “helping our local farmers markets and our plant-based community, to provide quality products to all our customers.”
What to try: The vegan pepper steak is one of the top sellers and dairy-free baked goods are extremely popular among their loyal customers.
A self-proclaimed “Vegetable Restaurant” founded by James Beard-nominated chefs Rich Landau and Kate Jacoby, Vedge opened in 2011 with a theme of “exciting, modern, fine-dining experience.” It offers innovative and creative vegan dishes that will impress even the most discerning palate.
What to try: The grilled avocado with salsa Veracruz and potato empanada is a top selection.
All The Way Live is a vegan restaurant in Germantown offering a variety of plant-based options that customers rave about. Opened in 2008 by Nyeisha Cabbiness and her mother, Beverly Nedley, it’s the first raw-food vegan café in Philadelphia. Serving everything from breakfast bowls to hearty dinners, they focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and creative flavor combinations.
What to try: The BBQ portobello mushrooms and the forbidden black rice with kale are among the favorites on the menu
Regarded as one of the most iconic fast-casual spots in the city, Nicole Marquis’ HipCityVeg is a hallmark of vegan cuisine in Philly. Its three Philadelphia locations are known for their delicious, plant-based burgers, sandwiches, salads, and smoothies. Also, the brand has a reputation for speedy and quality service
What to try: The HipCityRanch sandwich is considered one of the best plant-based entrées in Philly.
With locations in the Reading Terminal Market and Hatboro, Luhv Vegan Deli was founded by Argentinian immigrants Silvia and Daniel Lucci. The market location serves up cold cuts and vegan sliced cheeses to go along with top-rated sandwiches, like their Reuben on rye. Customers also love their vegan tuna salad, which blends chickpeas and seaweed.
What to try: The smoked golden beet lox and cream cheese are some of the favorite choices on the menu.
Philly has a long history of being one of the best pizza cities in the country, and 20th Street Pizza is keeping the legacy alive. Owned by Mark Mebus, who is also the owner of the Blackbird, this Rittenhouse pizza spot sells square pan pies and classic round pies with topping choices such as vegan sausage and cashew mozzarella cheese. They also have garlic knots topped with vegan parmesan cheese.
What to try: The smoked vegan pepperoni pizza with organic tomato sauce is a fan favorite.
Nicole Marquis, best known for HipCityVeg, struck gold again with Bar Bombón. Located in Rittenhouse, Bar Bombón blends Latin flavors with vegan fare. From cocktail options like a salted grapefruit margarita to vegan Spanish meatballs, Bar Bombón is one of the signature vegan spots in the area.
What to try: The vegan steak empanadas and buffalo cauliflower tacos are top-notch offerings.
Owned and operated by couple Ron Tadeo and Lauren Margaretta, Monster Vegan is a combination of the couple’s love of horror films and great vegan cuisine. The restaurant serves classic Italian dishes like Penne Alla Vodka and international fare including Korean BBQ wings. Along with an immense selection of cocktails and mocktails, Monster Vegan is an essential place for vegans in the city.
What to try: The truffle Alfredo spaghetti and spicy bolognese are great selections.
The mother-and-son team Alison Fitzpatrick and Alex Soto have willed Fitz on 4th into being one of the go-to kosher/vegan spots in the city. A tapas restaurant, Fitz on 4th has unique vegan dishes and cocktails that always draw a crowd. Their plant-based dishes are made with fresh, flavorful ingredients.
What to try: The edamame dumplings and cavatappi pasta are two of the signature items on the menu.
Pietramala serves plant-based, international fare that has garnered rave reviews from its loyal customers. Located in Northern Liberties, owned by chef Ian Graye, the restaurant is a hot spot for vegans from around the region. Whether you try the smokey cabbage or the maitake mushrooms, you can’t go wrong with any selection from Pietramala’s robust menu
What to try: The turnip chowder, tagliatelle with sprouting Romanetto cauliflower, and roasted Japanese sweet potato are must-haves.
Philly is known for its diners throughout the city. But The Tasty holds the distinction of being a vegan diner. Located in South Philly and co-owned by Sofia Baltopoulos and Kate Hiltz, The Tasty offers classic diner food with a vegan twist, including house-baked goods (such as donuts), which are available daily. With options such as Tofu Egg and Cheese, The Tasty is worth a visit for vegans who want those diner vibes.
What to try: The Buffalo Chik’n Sammyy is one of the most popular items on the menu.
For more than 20 years, Chef Alice Leung has been creating vegan goods. At Joy Cafe’, she believes food should be “nutritious, delicious and conscientious.” The menu includes its famous mac and cheez and “Bagelwiches,” such as “vegan sausage, tomato, cheese, and maple mustard.” Located in Northern Liberties, Joy Cafe’ is the way to go for creative vegan delight.
What to try: The Booya Ham “Bagelwiches,” with vegan ham and chickpea flax egg, is a popular item.
