Located on the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan, Chicago is one of the most welcoming big cities and one of the best cities in Illinois to visit. Lucky for me, Chicago is only a five-hour train ride from Detroit, making it easy for a weekend filled with vegan food!
In addition to vegan eats, the Windy City is brimming with beautiful architecture, which you can enjoy by land or boat, world-class museums, and shopping!
It’s no wonder Condé Nast Traveler has ranked Chicago #1 on their list of the Best Large Cities in the U.S. for three years in a row. Once you visit, you will want to keep coming back!
This vegan guide to Chicago will not only help you find all the best vegan food the city has to offer, but also great things to do, recommendations on where to stay, how to get around the city, and more!
One note, a few of the links in this guide might be affiliate links. There is no cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase.
Vegan Restaurants in Chicago
I hope you’re hungry — there are a literal ton of vegan and vegetarian restaurants throughout Chicago! There are so many, that I didn’t even bother to investigate the vegan-friendly ones! Pretty fantastic, right?
Kale My Name
3300 W. Montrose Ave., Chicago, IL 60618
You’ll find some of the best vegan comfort food in Chicago at Kale My Name! Fried mac-n-cheese balls, cauliflower wings, tacos, and so much more. This is one spot where you might come in and say that you’re not that hungry but then you see them menu — you can’t resist!
Arya Bhavan
2508 W Devon Ave, Chicago, IL 60659
If you love Indian food, you can’t miss Chicago’s only vegan and gluten-free restaurant! You’ll find a lengthy menu of traditional dishes and a small lineup of raw options. Everything is created with the highest quality ingredients, minimal oil, and refined sugar.
Native Foods
Multiple locations throughout the city
I love Native Foods so much that I wrote to their corporate office to open a location in Detroit. No luck, yet… This little diner has a jam-packed menu that is 100% vegan. The menu is full of a delicious assortment of burgers, sandwiches, salads, and creative bowls. Make sure whatever you order you add on a side of chicken wings with spicy buffalo sauce and save room for a peanut butter parfait!
Vegan Plate
1550 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Come here, extra hungry! You’ll want to devour everything on the menu at this Thai restaurant —crispy tofu, spicy seafood soup (made with soy fish and shrimp), pepper steak, and much more.
Chicago Raw
51 W Huron St, Chicago, IL 60654
This raw café has you covered for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Start your day with a nutrient-packed smoothie, then for lunch or dinner check out their Chicago raw rolls which are nori rolls stuffed with a delicious seed pate, carrot, avocado, and red pepper, and served with tamari sauce. Don’t skip a slice of apple pie or a lemon square for dessert.
IM Vegan
2907 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
If you’re in the mood for flavorful curries, steamed buns, or fried rice then you have come here! The menu features traditional Thai cuisine along with some of the chef’s own creative concoctions.
Plant Based Junkie
1635 1/2 E 87th St, Chicago, IL 60617
This little diner opened in 2020 and has been serving up delicious vegan fast food that even a carnivore would love. The menu is full of fun burgers with creative names, like the Hot Mess which is an Impossible patty, cheese, grilled jalapenos, grilled onions, vegan mayo, and a punch of sriracha! You should also add on an order of Junkie Nachos!
Alice & Friends Vegan Kitchen
They have set out to create a “wonderland” for vegans with their flavorful Asian dishes to please not only vegans but also those who are veg-curious. Their menu is extensive and includes ramen, Korean BBQ, chow mein, and much more. They are also very conscious of those with food allergies or sensitives, the menu is well-marked.
Healthy Substance
6852 W Archer Ave, Chicago, IL 60638
This family owned restaurant is dishing up amazing traditional Mexican favorites with tons of gluten-free options. You can’t go wrong with a house-made tamale, chorizo gordita, or a loaded burrito!
Elephant + Vine
2315 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
I came for the strawberry and cream milkshake and left with a Mammoth burger and a side of crispy sweet potato fries! If you’re looking for addictive comfort food, look no further.
Amitabul
6207 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60646
The fusion of traditional Korean cooking with a Western influence creates a non-stop menu of flavor! There are so many things to enjoy — dumplings, curry tofu, sushi, and more — you have a tough decision!
Upton’s Breakroom
3411 N Halsted St. Chicago, IL 60657
This popular spot is well known and loved for it’s meats — seitan meat! Their menu features hearty sandwiches, loaded bowls, and creamy mac-n-cheese toped with fried bacon. Whatever you decide, make sure you don’t miss one of their epic milkshakes.
Sam & Gertie’s
1309 W Wilson Ave, Chicago, IL 60640
If you’ve been missing meaty Reubens or savory salami, you can’t skip a visit to Chicago’s only vegan Jewish deli! This casual spot has veganized traditional Jewish delicatessen favorites — start your day with a fresh bagel with cream cheese and end it with a Challah dog! They also have gluten-free bagels.
Penelope’s Vegan Taqueria
230 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60654
You won’t soon forget the flavorful Mexican eats at this vegan taqueria! Start with an order of Street Style Elote (steamed corn covered in an irresistible mix of creamy spices) and then head to the tacos section — good luck deciding; they are all incredible.
Don Bucio’s Taqueria
2763 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
This is my kind of city — there are not one but TWO excellent authentic vegan taquerias! Their tacos are served on irresistible house-made tortillas — don’t miss them! Just save room for dessert because you’ve got to try their churros.
Majani
7167 S Exchange Ave, Chicago, IL 60649
The amazing vegan Soul Food menu at this spot will put a smile on your face — even the most meatiest of eaters would be pleased! You’ll find loads of traditional dishes all veganized — jerk tofu, fried grits, crab cakes, gumbo, and more.
Belli’s Juice Bar & Market
1850 South Blue Island Ave. Chicago, IL 60608
You need to come here if you like cold-pressed juices, smoothies, and other nutrient-dense dishes. Their menu is extensive! Seriously, there is a smoothie for whatever your heart desires.
Vegan Pizza Spots in Chicago
If you thought you would miss out on iconic deep-dish Chicago pizza, think again!
Kitchen 17
2554 W Diversey Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
This is the only fully vegan pizzeria in the city and is famous for its pizza lineup! They’ve got everything — Chicago deep-dish, pan pizza, and tasty NY-style ‘za. In addition to the epic pizza pies, they’ve got a huge menu of comfort food eats.
Dante’s Pizzeria
3028 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
If you love NY-style pizza, you’ve got to come here; they claim to have the best NY Style pizza in the city! The vegan-friendly pizzeria has jumbo slices topped with vegan pepperoni, spicy jalapeño, garlic oil, and more.
Paulie Gee’s
Locations in Logan Square & Wicker Park
This vegan-friendly pizzeria has a ton of creative pizza options topped with kimchi, house-made fennel sausage, cashew ricotta, and more. On top of amazing vegan pizzas, they also have a mouthwatering lineup of sweets from Pie, Pie, My Darling.
Fancier Vegan Restaurants in Chicago
PLANTA Queen
413 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654
This sophisticated Asian-inspired spot is perfect if you’re looking for a special night out! Their menu features creative sushi, hot bowls of noodles, dumplings, and more.
Bloom Plant-Based Kitchen
1559 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
They are all about the veggies at this chic plant-based eatery. All the dishes are gluten-free and focus on making veggies shine, from cactus schnitzel to red carrot dumplings and everything in between!
Vegetarian Restaurants in Chicago
You don’t have to worry about going hungry in Chicago; this vegan guide continues with these awesome vegetarian restaurants that have terrific vegan options.
Handlebar
2311 W North Avenue, Chicago, IL 60647
This hip vegetarian restaurant features a beer garden and a creative menu with everything from greasy vegan eats to cure a hangover to bowls overfilling with greens. This is a great place to hang out on a beautiful, warm evening.
Veggie House
2109 S China Pl, Chicago, IL 60616
While checking out Chicago’s Chinatown, you can’t skip visiting this veggie hot spot! The menu adds a little modern flare to traditional Chinese dishes — crispy turmeric oyster mushrooms, braised lion’s mane, and more.
Ground Control
3315 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
Vegan and vegetarian comfort food that will delight even the pickiest eaters! You can’t go wrong with any of their creative burgers or sandwiches. Check out their Tofricken Royale — their take on a crispy chick’n sandwich with spicy slaw, and garlic mayo.
Can’t Believe It’s Not Meat
Locations in Hyde Park & Gold Coast
You and I can believe it’s not meat, but man, I hope meat eaters decide to pop into this playful vegetarian burger joint. Almost everything on the menu is vegan or has a vegan option, including giant burgers, crispy fish, fried chick’n, and more.
The Chicago Diner
2333 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647 (two locations in Chicago)
A longtime Chicago vegan and vegetarian favorite! They have been slinging veggie burgers and cooking up delicious veggie dishes since the 80s — long before being a vegan or vegetarian was mainstream. Their menu features great comfort food like country fried steak with mashed potatoes!
Original Soul Vegetarian
203 E 75th St, Chicago, IL 60619
This vegetarian spot wants to make sure it’s diners don’t feel like they’re missing out on anything by skipping meat! Their menu features a mix of classic comfort food — fried mushrooms, tender greens, BBQ, and more.
Vegan Breakfast & Brunch Options in Chicago
Sometimes finding vegan breakfast or brunch spots can be difficult! Luckily for you, these spots have vegan breakfast and brunch options to help get your day started.
The Chicago Diner
2333 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647 (two locations in Chicago)
This iconic veggie spot is serving up breakfast favorites all week! You’ll find all of the veganized breakfast favorites — gooey cinnamon rolls, savory chilaquiles, or fan-favorite pancakes.
Fancy Plants Café
613 W Briar Pl, Chicago, IL 60657
A delicious place to start your day — or drop in for lunch! The 100% vegan café features breakfast favorites like a croissant sandwich with Just Egg, cheese, smoked seitan, and veggies, or check out one of their house-made quiches, which are also gluten-free. For those with a sweet tooth, they have a great selection of house-made pastries.
Spirit Elephant
924 Green Bay Rd, Winnetka, IL 60093
This spot is a little outside of downtown but worth the drive! On Saturday and Sunday, pencil in a stop for a stack of fluffy pancakes, a Just Egg frittata, or many other tantalizing favorites.
Kale My Name
3300 W. Montrose Ave., Chicago, IL 60618
On Friday – Saturday, from 11 AM – 4 PM, this Chicago hot spot has an amazing brunch lineup! There is something for everyone — traditional pancakes and sausage, tofu scramble, brunchy empanadas, and so much more.
Handlebar
2311 W North Avenue, Chicago, IL 60647
All week you can start you day with an assortment of yummy delights — don’t skip over the vegan chimichangas!
Lucy’s Café
2100 W Roscoe St, Chicago, IL 60618
This vegetarian café is well known for its extensive breakfast and brunch menu (it’s available Wednesday – Sunday) — savory toasts, eggless wonders, or a French toast flight!
PLANTA Queen
413 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654
Every weekend, this chic spot has an amazing brunch menu with a little Asian influence — breakfast futomaki and ube mochi waffles to start, but if that’s not your jam no worries! You’ll also find fluffy cinnamon rolls and French toast coated in corn flakes and topped with berry compote.
Vegan Bakeries, Ice Cream, & Donuts in Chicago
Who doesn’t love a good sugary treat! If you want to sink your teeth into a slice of decadent chocolate cake or melt away with a scoop of creamy ice cream, you can in Chicago! These aren’t the only sweet spots in Chicago. For even more yummy treats, check out our lineup of 15 Chicago vegan bakeries and desserts spots worth visiting!
Ingrained
108 W. Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL 60654
If you think raw vegan desserts are boring then you must come here! These addictive creations are downright decadent.
Sweet Vegan Bakes
409 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60610
If you thought you’d have to give up every sweet treat you love by going vegan, you must check out this vegan bakery. Their dessert case is filled with tender cakes, creamy cheesecakes, cookies, and so much more.
Vaca’s Creamery
1436 W. Blackhawk St., Chicago, IL 60642
This is the spot for the creamiest vegan soft serve in Chicago! The little shop is whipping up simple cones with soft serve or fully loaded sundaes with peanut butter magic shell, cookie dough, marshmallows, and more! They also have milkshakes and their version of a “Blizzard.”
Cinnaholic
1295 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
Did you know there is an entire shop dedicated to vegan cinnamon rolls?! YES! Cinnaholic will make all of your cinnamon swirl dreams come true. They have a few other sweet treats too.
Liberation Kitchen
2054 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60612
Chicago’s first vegan donut shop! They serve a variety of traditional and specialty flavors glazed in chocolate, topped with cookie dough, and much more.
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream
Multiple shops throughout Chicago
No worries about having to stick with basic sorbet here. Jeni’s has many vegan ice cream options from caramel sticky bun to cold brew with coconut cream.
Pie, Pie My Darling
2636 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
These vegan cakes are showstoppers! They also serve cookies and many other treats, but their cakes are really the stars of the show. Currently they are only open for pre-order, no dine-in service.
Vegan Market in Chicago
When in Chicago you can’t miss this one-stop plant-based shop!
XMarket
804 W Montrose Ave, Chicago, IL 60613
This amazing vegan market is a must-visit ! You can grab an oat milk latte and pastry while you shop through aisles of vegan products! Their shelves are stocked with snacks, cheeses, produce, and loads of local stuff that you must try.
Vegan-Friendly Hotel in Chicago
Chicago is full of hotels for just about any budget or occasion, except there isn’t a fully vegan hotel just yet! This spot is veggie and eco-friendly.
Virgin Hotels Chicago
203 N Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60601
This hotel is not only right in the heart of downtown Chicago but is also focused on ensuring your stay is as sustainable as possible. The list of eco-initiatives is lengthy and includes a green roof, guest carbon offset programs, composting, resource conservation, eco-friendly toiletries, and much more. They do have vegetarian food options; some might be able to be made vegan.
Additional Hotel Suggestions
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile
540 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
Great location to shopping, the Navy Pier, and public transportation. Depending on where your room is, you can also enjoy beautiful views of the city!
Compare prices on Booking.com | Hotels.com
The Congress Plaza Hotel
520 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605
This is a historic hotel in a great location. You are within easy walking distance to Grant Park, Millennium Park, and The Magnificent Mile.
Compare prices on Booking.com | Hotels.com
The Best Things To Do in Chicago
#1 Enjoy beautiful flora and fauna at The Garfield Park Conservatory
This is one of the largest indoor conservatories in the US. It is approximately two indoor acres that feature eight different gardens in multiple climates — from the lush and humid tropics to the dry and arid desert. Outside the indoor gardens are 12 more acres of gardens that come to life during the summer. Even better, admission to this beautiful place is free; donations are appreciated.
#2 Enjoy art, gardens, and more in Millennium Park
Millennium Park is an iconic symbol for Chicago — well known for The Cloud Gate Statue (aka The Bean) but also a lovely place to enjoy free public art and plenty of green space. Aside from The Bean, also check out The Jay Pritzker Pavilion — an outdoor concert venue home to the Grant Park Music Festival along with The Crown Fountain. The fountain is an interactive work of art that incorporates Chicagoans. There are two large LED screens that stand in a reflecting pool showing a collection of faces with the illusion of water coming from their mouths.
#3 Take an architecture cruise
Learn the significance of some of Chicago’s iconic buildings from the water! The tours range in time and type of boat — from a Tall Ship to a kayak and everything in between. No matter which boating method you choose you’re bound to learn some incredible history about the windy city.
A Few Other Ways To See Chicago
#4 Enjoy one of the many museums
Chicago is home to a myriad of world-class museums from art to science and everything in between. If you’re interested in art, make sure you pencil in a stop at The Art Institute of Chicago. It is home to the largest collection of Monet paintings outside of Paris. You can also see work by Seurat and Picasso.
Interested in seeing a giant T-Rex? Then make sure you check out The Field Museum, the museum is filled with over 65,000 exhibits of natural wonder, from fossils to cultural artifacts.
#5 Walk, bike, or run on the Bloomingdale Trail — aka The 606
What was once an abandoned rail line is now an almost 3-mile elevated trail and park, like NYC’s High Line. Along the trail, you will find plenty of greenery, wildlife, and art installations. The trail is wide enough to accommodate runners, walkers, and bikers. After eating all of that great vegan food throughout Chicago, you’re going to want a place to burn some calories!
How to Get Around Chicago
Coming from Chicago Midway or O’Hare Airport
From Chicago Midway airport, grab the CTA orange line to get downtown. If your destination isn’t located on the orange line, it does intersect with many of the other CTA lines. It will take between 20 – 25 minutes to get downtown. Tickets can be purchased outside the station, single tickets are $2.50. Taxis are also available outside the terminals and depending on traffic range from $35 – $40.
From O’Hare Airport, there are multiple trains to Chicago using the CTA or Metra. The CTA blue line is located within the airport and is the most affordable option. Just follow the signs for “trains to the city” and buy your ticket before boarding. The CTA single ticket fare is $5. Taxis are also available outside the terminals and range in price from $30 – $40.
While You’re in The City
Getting around Chicago is easy thanks to their public transportation system. A car is not needed to get around the city and I really suggest you avoid having one altogether. Parking in Chicago is expensive, and in my past travels having a car was more of a hassle than a help.
The city is well connected via its CTA trains and buses, the high-speed Metra train, biking, Uber/Lyft, and even water taxis! If you’re staying in the city for a few days, grabbing a CTA pass will be the most helpful.
They range in cost — a one-day pass is $10 on up to a seven-day pass for $28. A single ticket for the train is $2.50 and the bus is $2.25. Do note, that if you plan to take the train and then switch to the bus there is a transfer fee of .25. If you’re staying outside downtown Chicago, then you will want to check out the Metra. The high-speed train connects the suburbs with downtown Chicago quickly. Fares range from $4 on up.
