A Vegetarian Guide to the US

The United States might be the home of the lobster roll, corn dog, cheesesteak, and other meaty dishes, but it also offers a wide variety of options for those who prefer greener options. Here are the best destinations for vegetarian food in the USA, according to our bookers.

Portland, Oregon

Portland’s vegetarian restaurant scene has been flourishing in recent years with exclusively vegetarian and vegan establishments popping up all over the city. The Aviv restaurant is a fantastic—and delicious—example of this trend. Once a falafel and hummus food truck, this Israeli-inspired restaurant is now one of the most popular in Portland and outranks most meat-serving restaurants. Many of the city’s best vegetarian restaurants are in the Irvington district, and bookers can stay nearby at the Hotel Eastlund.

Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles tends to be more purist when it comes to vegetarian food, with many restaurants preferring greens, grains, and innovate proteins in lieu of meat. You’ll find the city’s best vegetarian restaurants in East Hollywood, including the famous Flore Vegan. Check out all that this neighborhood has to offer while staying at The Steady, a hostel that’s also close to the Griffith Observatory and many beautiful hikes.

San Francisco, California

San Francisco was the home of the world’s first VegFest and offers an overwhelming amount of vegetarian options, so it’s no wonder that you’d see it mentioned on this list. No matter when you visit, you’ll find every type of vegetarian food, from fine dining to quick snacks, alongside all sorts of international cuisines. And if you’re planning to visit for VegFest, stay near the venue at Stanyan Park Hotel – and be sure to check out their daily wine and cheese hour.

San Diego, California

San Diego’s vegetarian restaurants rely on classic Californian flavors to create an ever-changing menu. Vegetarian bookers can stay in the city center at Stay Alfred on 6th Avenue. It’s also conveniently located right near Donne Jean, a vegan restaurant serving hearty comfort food like bourbon chili and smoked sweet potato with kombucha and beer. If you’re planning to travel outside the city, head north along the coast and check out the Trilogy Sanctuary & Cafe for organic vegan eats and aerial yoga.

NYC, New York

New York City has a reputation for being a foodie’s paradise, and the vegetarian options are no exception. Classic burger joints like Superiority Burger and 5 Napkin Burger have delicious meat-free burgers, but the best in town would have to be the Cinnamon Snail food truck. Try a Beastmode Burger Deluxe (seitan with mac-n-cheese) or a Lentil Artichoke Burger (featuring a pretzel bun), then sleep it off at the veggie-friendly Marlton Hotel.

Chicago, Illinois

Many of Chicago’s eateries focus on meat, but the city is also home to a vibrant vegetarian community. Bookers in search of traditional (i.e. hearty) Chicagoan eats should definitely have their first meal at the Chicago Diner. Order the Radical Reuben (corned beef seitan) or the Cuban Sandwich (with a side of fried yucca root chips), and wash it down with one of their vegan milkshakes. Then relax at the Fairmont Chicago hotel, while enjoying the views over Millenium Park.