Green Eats: 20 Top Vegan & Vegetarian Restaurants in Raleigh (and Beyond)

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Raleigh and the surrounding areas are home to a vibrant and diverse dining scene, including a growing number of vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Raleigh that offer extensive options for the non-meat eaters.

People dining outside a cafe with plants growing over the building.
Irregardless is a top vegetarian restaurant.

Whether you’re a dedicated vegetarian, vegan, flexitarian, pescatarian, or simply seeking delicious meatless meals, you’ll find a range of plant-based delights to tantalize your taste buds.

In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to some of the top vegetarian restaurants and eateries in Raleigh, throughout Wake County and the broader Triangle area offering a glimpse into their unique offerings and vegan options.

Most restaurants in Raleigh will have one or two plant based menu options, so to avoid information overload, we’ve chosen places to eat that are 100% vegetarian/vegan or have a substantial number of plant-based offerings on the menu.

It must be more than just a salad, tomato soup, or hummus dip. I was vegetarian for six years and hated having that as my only options. I’m now gluten-free which can be worse, but here is my list of gluten free restaurants in Raleigh.

Unfortunately, given what we do, I couldn’t make vegetarian and gluten free work. So, if you’re searching on your phone for “best vegetarian restaurants near me”, start with this list below.

Table Of Contents
  1. Top Vegetarian Restaurants in Raleigh NC

Top Vegetarian Restaurants in Raleigh NC

1. The Fiction Kitchen (Raleigh)

plates of vegan food
Dedicated plant based menu.

Probably the most well-known of the 100% vegan restaurants in Raleigh is the Fiction Kitchen. This restaurant combines a creative flair with a dedication to plant-based dishes with classic comfort foods like Southern style “chicken and waffles” to globally inspired plates like Vegan charcuterie board, potato chaat, curry bowl, homestyle meatloaf, and risotto.

They also have fantastic cocktails, house made sodas, and yummy desserts – hello Vidieri chocolate flourless torte. Most of the items on the menu are also now gluten-free, and many nut free.

Fiction Kitchen is a must-visit for those craving innovative vegetarian and vegan cuisine. They have recently moved from their Downtown Raleigh location to the Gateway Plaza near Mordecai. We can’t wait to check out their new location!

2. Element Plant-Based Gastropub (Raleigh)

Smoked vegan bbq burger on a bun by Element Gastropub.
Smoked vegan bbq burger / Image by elementgastropub.com

Element Gastro Pub in downtown Raleigh is a 100% plant-based and vegan restaurant. Their extensive menu includes items such as BBQ plates, fried chicken sandwiches, smash burgers, wings, and delicious desserts. They have indoor dining plus a spacious outdoor patio.

3. Pure Vegan Cafe (Raleigh & Durham)

pure vegan
Vegan tacos / Image by purevegancafe.com.

Pure Vegan Cafe in Raleigh is a haven for plant-based food enthusiasts with their diverse array of plant-based dishes to please every palate. From their mouthwatering avocado toast to jackfruit biryani, chicken and waffles, and rainbow burgers, the menu is a celebration of fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Don’t miss their refreshing green smoothies, juices, and treats, which add a sweet ending to your journey through their wholesome, cruelty-free cuisine. Whether you’re a committed vegan or simply looking to explore the world of vegetarian dining, Pure Vegan Cafe promises a memorable, guilt-free gastronomic adventure. They also have a location in Durham.

4. Earth To Us (Raleigh)

Nachos bowl with vegan toppings by Earth To Us.
Breakfast Nachos / Image by shopearthtous.com

This family owned American and Latin 100% Vegan Comfort food restaurant started as a food truck and pop-up restaurant, and now has a permanent location in Raleigh, near the Cary border.

Vegan dishes range from loaded nachos, cauliflower wings and burgers, to arroz con gandules, fried plantains, hempe empanadas and BBQ arepas. There are several gluten free items on the menu as well.

5. Vegan Community Kitchen (Apex)

Vegans across Wake County rave about the quality and size of the portions at Vegan Community Kitchen in Apex.

An extensive 100% vegan menu includes dishes such as meatball mac and cheese bowl, bureto bowl with seitan, vegan pizza and burgers, wraps, Ethiopian dishes and desserts.

6. PLANT CAKES BAKE SHOP & DESSERT BAR (WAKE FOREST)

Two donuts from a plant based bakery in Wake Forest, NC.
Plant based doughnuts.

Want some delicious gluten free treats that are completely organic, non-GMO, and plant based as well? But wait, they are also free of artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners, sugar alcohols, and preservatives.

Plant Cakes Bake Shop on White Street in Wake Forest has a lot of gluten free doughnuts, muffins and cupcakes. We have not eaten them yet (they’ve been closed when we’ve tried), but I’ve heard rave reviews.

7. Soul Cocina (Various Locations)

Although not a vegetarian restaurant as such, Soul Cocina does have 100% delicious Latin inspired plant-based food for you (also 100% gluten free).

Silvana creates ready to heat and serve meals created using age-old traditions and cooking techniques from her home country of Colombia.

You can find them at the Durham, Carrboro, and Pittsboro farmers markets as well as pick up at Rebus Works in Boylan Heights neighborhood of Raleigh every first and third Saturday of the month. Order online.

8. Bklyn Bakery (Durham & online orders)

choclate croissants bklyn bakery
Chocolate hazelnut croissants / Image by bklyn-bakery.com

Bklyn Bakery is a 100% vegan bakery with a focus on organic, local, and seasonal ingredients to create delicious pastries, cakes, and desserts. Some of her special treats are also gluten free! Her chocolate croissants look incredible and make me miss Paris!

There is no storefront at this time, but future plans are in the works. You can find her at the Durham Farmers Market every Saturday and orders can be placed via her website.

9. Irregardless Café (Raleigh)

People dining outside a cafe on blue tables and chairs.
One of the oldest restaurants in Raleigh.

Located in the heart of Raleigh, Irregardless Cafe is an iconic vegetarian restaurant that has been serving the community for decades with a true farm to table experience. They were also the winner of Open Table’s top vegetarian restaurant in the USA!

The seasonal menus at Irregardless features an array of vegetarian and vegan options, from wild mushroom galette to cauliflower curry and veggie shepherd’s pie, plus classic shrimp & grits.

Bowl of shrimp and grits and a cocktail.
Bowl of salad and a cocktail glass.
Shrimp & grits / salad

The cozy restaurant has a fun community vibe and features local artists on their gallery walls and live music. Easily one of the best vegetarian restaurants to experience!

10. Burger Village (Downtown Raleigh)

Vegetarian burger with cheese and mushrooms.
Vegetarian burger

If you’re in the mood for a juicy burger without the meat, Burger Village in the Glenwood South area of downtown Raleigh is a fantastic option. This family-friendly eatery serves mouthwatering, organic, vegetarian and vegan burgers with black bean, veggie, mushroom patties and impossible and beyond burger patties.

I really enjoyed my Village Gluten Free veggie burger with Spicy Vegan topping: vegan mozzarella, Pico de Gallo, sautéed onions, sautéed mushrooms, and chipotle ketchup.

I was surprised at how tasty the vegetarian burger was. I was a vegetarian for six years and it was hard to find a good tasting veggie burger. You can also have a vegetarian patty on any of their salads and many of the appetizers and sides are plant based.

There are also many gluten-free items, including gluten-free buns at Burger Village. Read our full review of Burger Village.

Read our full review of the Burger Village in Downtown Raleigh

11. Gringo a Go Go (Raleigh)

Plate of French toast
French Toast

Looking for vegetarian Mexican food in Raleigh? Gringo A Go Go is one of the popular downtown restaurants with their colorful outdoor patio area and authentic Mexican flavors.

It’s one of our favorite places to have brunch in Raleigh and one of our favorite Mexican restaurants which will feature vegetarian and vegan options. Savannah recommends the Gringo French toast!

Their lunch and dinner menu, however, is popping with options like vegan chorizo con queso, vegan roasted pumpkin seed dip and a huge range of vegan filling choices for tacos, chilaquiles, quesadilla and more!

12. Sosta Cafe (Raleigh)

If you’re looking for a hearty vegetarian or vegan sandwich during the weekdays in Raleigh, head to Sosta Cafe on East Davie St.

Their (mostly) warm sandwiches come with two homemade vegan sides (Israeli couscous, chickpea salad, cannellini bean salad) and come with vegan fillings such as Eastern Carolina style BBQ, Chorizo, and Beef slices. Vegetarians will love their Ultimate Cheese sandwich.

13. SAFFRON INDIAN CUISINE (CARY)

Goat curry, steamed rice and naan bread from Saffron Indian Restaurant.
North Indian cuisine.

Craig and I discovered this Indian restaurant in Cary during Triangle Restaurant Week. It’s exceptional Indian food with a focus on North Indian-style cooking. Chef Rawat has years of experience cooking in 5-star luxury properties and has earned culinary titles such as Best Restaurant in the City and America’s best restaurant!

Now we get to enjoy those masterful spicy flavors in Cary. You’ll find a vegetarian or vegan version of almost any of your favorite Indian dishes. Almost everything on the menu is also gluten-free.

14. Sitti (Downtown Raleigh)

Felafal and vegetable dish at Sitti Lebanese restaurant in Raleigh
Falafel plate

This popular Middle Eastern restaurant serves up modern versions of authentic Lebanese dishes made fresh in house daily. There’s an upbeat atmosphere with communal tables or your own space, and an antique Art Deco bar with Lebanese liquors, beer and wine, plus French wines and local craft beers. 

You can expect really good Middle Eastern vegetarian food including goat cheese stuffed peppers, fried cauliflower, soups and salad, vegan dips, eggplant kabob, pizzettes, and falafel (anyway you like it). It’s on our list of favorite downtown restaurants in Raleigh.

15. Neomonde (Raleigh, Morrisville, & Durham)

Plate of Bulghur (cracked wheat) with sautéed tomatoes and onion.
Bulghur with sautéed tomatoes / Image by neomonde.com

Another Mediterranean restaurant in Raleigh heavy on vegetarian and vegan options is an old favorite. Neomonde.

Expect intense flavors in meals such as vegetarian flatbread, veggie lasagna, vegetarian plates, and grilled veggie or falafel pitas. Sides and salads are filled with plant-based options and your sweet tooth will be happy with plenty of choices!

  • Address:
    • 3817 Beryl Road, Raleigh
    • 10235 Chapel Hill Road Morrisville
    • 202 Corcoran St, Durham
  • Website: neomonde.com

16. Aladdins (North Hills & Brier Creek)

Falafel and tomatoes on a plate.
Falafal plate / Image by aladdins.com

For this Mediterranean restaurant with lots of vegetarian and vegan dishes we’re headed to North Hills or Brier Creek.

Aladdins is a chain restaurant, but what does that matter when you can get your plant-based fix with menu items such as Loubie Bzeit, spicy cauliflower, baba ganouj, pitza, vegetarian rolled pitas, vegetarian chili, salads and falafel?

  • Address: 4209 Lassiter Mill Rd #136, Raleigh, or 8201 Brier Creek Pkwy. Suite 107, Raleigh
  • Website: aladdins.com

Read more restaurants in North Hills to visit

17. Luna Rotisserie & Empanadas (Durham)

4 slices of sweet potato with corn on top.
Table and booth in a restaurant with brick wall and lights in background.
Latin-inspired restaurant

While not in Raleigh itself, Luna Rotisserie & Empanadas in Durham is worth the 30-minute drive.

This Latin-inspired restaurant offers an array of vegetarian and vegan options, including almond crusted crispy fried avocado; camote chimichurri; jackfruit chili, grain bowls and patacon; empanadas filled with plant-based goodness, and crispy yucca fries.

Luna’s vibrant atmosphere and diverse menu are perfect for those looking to explore Latin flavors without compromising their vegetarian or vegan lifestyle.

I loved the food I ate here when I was a vegetarian! They also have another location in nearby Carrbaro.

18. Fount Kitchen (Morrisville)

Avocado on toast and a cup of coffee
Avocado on gluten free toast

Fount Kitchen is one of our favorite places in Wake County because of its outstanding coffee and 100% gluten free menu (don’t miss the coffee cake.)

Fount also has a high number of vegetarian and vegan dishes on their menu from smoothie bowls to salads, small plates and cakes! You can read why we think Fount has the best coffee (and more) in the Triangle.

19. Pizza Twist (Morrisville)

I wouldn’t think vegan pizzas are easy to find in Raleigh, especially with interesting Asian inspired gourmet topings and a wide variety of choice.

Pizza Twist in Morrisville has vegan pizzas such as butter chicken, pepperoni, and Manchurian. And vegetarian options like paneer tikka masala and Bombay garlic veggie.

20. Lilly’s Pizza (Five Points)

Pizza with olives, tomatoes and cheese inside a cardboard box.
Large variety of vegetarian pizzas.

For 30 years, Lilly’s Pizza in Five Points has been serving up damn good pizza! So good it’s been voted best pizza in North Carolina.

We agree they are incredibly tasty and memorable, especially since they use locally sourced and organic menu items. Vegans and vegetarians will love the huge variety of pizzas available using vegan crust and vegan cheese and packed with delicious traditional pizza toppings and a few more outside the box like tofu, orange segments, and mango salsa.

Final thoughts on Plant Based Restaurants in Raleigh

Raleigh and its neighboring areas are making significant strides in catering to the needs and preferences of vegetarian and vegan diners. Whether you’re in the mood for classic comfort food, international flavors, or sustainable, locally sourced dishes, these restaurants have something to offer.

So, the next time you’re in the Raleigh area, make sure to explore these vegetarian hotspots and savor the array of green and plant-based delights that are transforming the local dining scene.

Even if you are a meat eater, these restaurants will still get your taste buds zinging on a Meatless Monday! Why not go on a plant-based food adventure once a week!

Did I miss any? What do you think are the best vegan and vegtarian restaurants in Raleigh people should try next?

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