Veganism has become very popular throughout many cities across the U.S. More and more people are choosing to live the vegan lifestyle, which means more vegan-friendly restaurants are opening every now and then.
Here are the top travel destinations in the U.S. for vegans:
1. Portland, Oregon
Portland is no doubt the most vegan-friendly city in North America. In fact, it was named the #1 Vegan-Friendly City of 2016 by PETA.
Blossoming Lotus is a very popular restaurant in Portland. Not only do they serve innovative dishes, such as collard rolls, coconut curry, and their delicious “lotus wrap”, but they also have a fun way of attracting visitors.
Every Monday from March to May, you can come and collect tokens to get a special edition of their Blossoming Lotus t-shirt. With every token you collect, you also get a chance to win a trip to Thailand for 10 days. This is just another fun way to attract travellers and locals to this unique restaurant.
Another great eatery is Homegrown Smoker BBQ. They’re an all-vegan BBQ serving innovative vegan burgers, chili and “ribs.” Homegrown Smoker BBQ is arguable the best BBQ in the United States.
2. Austin, Texas
It’s very surprising to hear that Austin, the capital of Texas, is big on veganism. As Texas is a state full of meat-lovers, it sounds almost impossible that its capital could even have vegan options.
However, there are many veg-friendly restaurants and food trucks for vegans to go to while visiting Austin.
Arlo’s Food Truck, located at Cheerup Charlie’s, serves vegan comfort food that will please anyone’s palate. With a 100% vegan menu, their Bac’n Cheeze Burger and Street Tacos are a hit. People 21 and over are only allowed at this take-out location.
Another veg-friendly food truck in Austin is BBQ Revolution. With a belief that BBQ doesn’t have to be all meat-oriented, BBQ Revolution has come up with a cruelty-free menu full of delicious dishes. It’s best to order ahead, as they close as soon as they run out of food. You can order a protein with a side, or one of their unique sandwiches or plates.
Want to dine at a restaurant rather than ordering take-out from a food truck? Head over to Casa de Luz, which is a non-profit educational community centre and restaurant. You can come here for breakfast, lunch ordinner any day of the week to try unique vegan, organic and gluten-free American and international dishes.
3. New York City, New York
New York City is becoming very popular with veganism. Not only is it a huge metropolitan city, but it is also packed with vegans and vegetarians – and restaurants.One must-try eatery in New York City is Ladybird. Open since July 21, 2016, Ladybird is restaurateur Ravi de Rossi’s first vegan restaurant. They serve tapas, drinks, sweets and more from a plant-based menu made by Daphne Cheng, the chef from one of Ravi de Rossi’s other restaurants, Mother of Pearl. Aside from great food, this restaurant’s gorgeous environment attracts people here every day.
Craving something casual? Head over to Screamer’s Pizzeria in Brooklyn. It’s the first all-vegan pizzeria to open in this area of New York City, featuring amazing creations made from ingredients such as broccoli rabe, caramelized onions, avocado, kale pesto and other delicious ingredients. They also make their own dairy and meat alternatives, such as their cheese, which is made from tapioca and coconut oil. This eatery, open everyday, is very popular amongst locals and travellers alike.
4. Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles is at par with New York when it comes to veganism – both are expanding in this industry as their vegan population is growing.
Cafe Gratitude is a 100% plant-based organic restaurant. Located in two busy locations of LA, you can enjoy great food in amazing locations and chat with friendly staff members. Although, not only does is this restaurant friendly, but the servers also ask you, “what are you grateful for?” It’s a great time to really think about what you are satisfied with and what makes you happy. Visiting this restaurant is an experience that you’ll never forget!
Are you looking for some raw options? There’s no place better than SunCafe. They serve raw vegan food in a beautiful environment near Hollywood and Universal Studios. In addition, they were named the best vegan restaurant in Los Angeles and have won quite a few awards. A local favourite, travellers wouldn’t want to miss this hot spot!
5. Honolulu, Hawaii
Honolulu is a very popular travel destinations for Americans. Not only does it have gorgeous beaches and beautiful botanical plants, but it is also packed with vegan options for everyone.
A restaurant that everyone enjoys is Greens & Vines. Not only can you enjoy the all-vegan food they serve, but you can also purchase some of their goods sold at farmers’ markets every single week.
You can also visit the local hot spot, Downbeat Diner & Lounge. Here, you can enjoy the American food this diner serves and then head over next door to listen to live music shows.
Overall, the United States is getting bigger and bigger with veganism every year. With Portland being arguably one of the most vegan-friendly cities in the world, other large cities are growing bigger and bigger in this industry as well. It is impossible for vegan travellers to encounter troubles while choosing a great destination to visit in this country!
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