If you’re in Dallas and looking for vegan or vegetarian-friendly spots, you’re in luck. The city is home to a growing variety of restaurants and cafés that serve plant-based food without compromising on flavor. Here’s a casual yet professional guide to some of the best options around town, so you can plan your next meal with confidence.
1. Recipe Oak Cliff
Located in the Oak Cliff neighborhood, Recipe is a cozy take-out spot that focuses on fresh and wholesome plant-based meals. They specialize in vibrant juices, smoothies, falafel wraps, jackfruit barbecue tacos, and raw zucchini noodles, making it a great choice for a quick lunch or healthy dinner on the go. Regulars rave about their barbecue jackfruit plate, which replicates smoky, tangy flavors without the meat.
You can also grab one of their cashew-based cheesecakes for a sweet treat that doesn’t feel heavy. Since it’s a takeout-only spot with limited outdoor seating, it’s perfect if you want to grab something and head to nearby parks like Kidd Springs for a picnic.
2. Spiral Diner & Bakery
Spiral Diner has been a Dallas vegan institution for years, with a menu full of comfort food classics. It’s the kind of place you visit when you want a hearty brunch, an indulgent dinner, or a dessert that feels nostalgic. The menu includes veganized versions of favorites like Frito pie, Beyond burgers, quesadillas, pancakes, and milkshakes. They also bake cookies, cakes, and pastries in-house. The vibe is casual and welcoming, making it great for groups or solo diners alike. You can even order a full vegan birthday cake with advance notice.
3. Vegan Food House
If you’re in the Bishop Arts District and craving Southern-inspired vegan comfort food, Vegan Food House delivers. This full-service restaurant offers Creole favorites like gumbo made with okra and greens, Cajun coconut ramen, and crispy cauliflower wings. Their country-fried “bacon” sandwich is a unique dish you won’t find elsewhere.
With its vibrant murals and cozy interior, it’s an excellent choice for a sit-down dinner with friends or a relaxed date night. Portions are generous, and you can pair your meal with one of their non-alcoholic signature drinks.
4. Casa Del Vegano
Tex-Mex gets a full vegan makeover at Casa Del Vegano, another Oak Cliff gem. Run by a husband-and-wife team, this casual counter-service restaurant is known for inventive dishes like jackfruit birria quesadillas, vegan “fish” tacos made with marinated cod alternatives, and crisp flautas filled with savory plant-based proteins.
The atmosphere is unpretentious, and the flavors are bold and satisfying. Their seasonal smoothies and mocktails round out the meal beautifully, making it a must-visit for fans of Mexican cuisine.
5. El Palote Panaderia
El Palote Panaderia combines authentic Mexican flavors with a fully plant-based menu. This family-owned Pleasant Grove bakery and taquería was even featured on Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.” They serve soy-based al pastor, flavorful tamales, hearty gorditas, and colorful pan dulces.
You can stop by for breakfast or lunch and pick up pastries and bread for later. Their authenticity and dedication to preserving traditional recipes make it a standout in the local vegan scene.
6. Kalachandji’s
For a unique dining experience, Kalachandji’s vegetarian buffet is set inside a Hare Krishna temple, offering a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere alongside its food. The buffet changes daily, offering fresh vegetables, dal, rice, house-made breads, and chutneys. Most dishes are vegan, and items containing dairy are clearly marked. It’s an affordable, all-you-can-eat experience, and you’re welcome to explore the serene temple garden before or after your meal.
This is one of the most relaxing places to enjoy a healthy, plant-based lunch or dinner.
7. Nature’s Plate
With multiple locations across Dallas, Nature’s Plate is all about convenience and healthy eating. Their pre-packaged meals are perfect if you’re looking for grab-and-go options for the week. Everything is vegan, non-GMO, and mostly organic, with meals like enchiladas, barbecue tofu bowls, stuffed peppers, and hearty salads.
They also offer family-sized meals and meal plans for busy customers who want to eat well without the stress of cooking. It’s a good choice if you’re trying to maintain a plant-based diet with minimal hassle.
8. Maiden
For a more upscale experience, Maiden is a fine-dining, vegan tasting-menu restaurant that showcases plant-based cuisine at its most refined. The menu changes seasonally to feature local produce, and the chefs use creative techniques to bring out unexpected flavors and textures.
Dining here is more of an event than just a meal, making it perfect for special occasions or an elevated night out. Be sure to make a reservation, as seating is limited and in high demand.
9. TLC Vegan Café
Located just outside Dallas in Garland, TLC Vegan Café is led by award-winning chef Troy Gardner, who brings his flair for soulful, comforting vegan dishes to every plate.
Highlights include oven-fried oyster mushrooms, barbecue platters, and creamy banana pudding for dessert. The café’s colorful, mural-lined walls create a lively and inviting space to enjoy a casual but satisfying meal. It’s worth the short drive from Dallas proper.
10. HG Sply Co.
HG Sply Co. is a favorite for diners who want healthy but filling options, and while it’s not fully vegan, it has plenty of plant-based choices. Their rooftop patio downtown offers great views, making it ideal for a sunny lunch or dinner.
Vegan queso, zucchini pasta, and customizable bowls packed with grains and roasted vegetables are just a few of the items you can enjoy here. It’s a good compromise if you’re dining with a mixed group of omnivores and plant-based eaters.
Tips Before You Go
Plan ahead: Some restaurants, especially fine-dining spots like Maiden, require reservations.
Allergy-friendly: Many places, such as Nature’s Plate, clearly label items that are gluten-free, soy-free, or nut-free.
Explore neighborhoods: Vegan and vegetarian-friendly restaurants are scattered throughout Dallas, so take the opportunity to discover new areas while enjoying your meal.
Ask questions: Even at vegetarian or vegan restaurants, it’s a good idea to ask about ingredients if you have dietary restrictions.
Final Thoughts
Dallas has become an exciting city for anyone looking to enjoy vegan or vegetarian dining. From quick take-out spots to upscale tasting menus, the options are varied and flavorful, reflecting the city’s diverse culinary scene. Whether you’re a lifelong vegan or just trying to cut back on meat, you’ll find something to enjoy at these welcoming, creative restaurants.
If you’re ready to discover even more of what Dallas has to offer, book a spot on an Incloodie Food Tour and experience some of these incredible vegan and vegetarian-friendly restaurants with the guidance of a local. It’s a fun, delicious way to explore the city while learning about its vibrant plant-based culture.