Purely Plant-Based Paradise
As a vegan, dining out can be a stressful experience. It's not just about finding something you can eat. It's about worrying whether your "vegan" dish might be cross-contaminated, or if it unknowingly contains an animal product not listed on the menu.
Luckily, New Orleans, a city known for its vibrant food scene, has embraced the plant-based movement with several fully vegan restaurants. These gems ensure that every dish on the menu is 100% vegan, leaving you free to enjoy your meal without second-guessing.
Here's a roundup of the city's best fully vegan restaurants, where you can dine with confidence and know every bite aligns with your values.
Breads on Oak | 8640 Oak St.
This organic, plant-based café and bakery is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Known for their artisan breads and pastries, Breads on Oak offers a mouthwatering selection of vegan croissants, muffins, and cinnamon rolls. Their savory menu includes options such as the "muffanada," a plant-based twist on the classic muffuletta, and hearty seasonal soups that are perfect for soaking up their delicious fresh baked breads. Luckily for breakfast lovers, breakfast is served all day, with delicious options including a biscuit tower and cheesy grits. Breads on Oak also makes vegan king cakes, a must have during Mardi Gras season.
Sweet Soulfood | 1025 N. Broad St.
Sweet Soulfood brings vegan soul food to the forefront with hearty, comforting dishes that capture the essence of Southern cooking. Their rotating menu includes BBQ cauliflower, creamy mac and cheese, red beans and rice, and collard greens. Finish your meal with a slice of their vegan sweet potato pie or bread pudding. With its vibrant atmosphere and flavorful offerings, this spot is a must-visit for soul food enthusiasts.
I-tal Garden | 810 N. Claiborne Ave.
Rooted in the principles of Ital cooking, a plant-based cooking style that originated with the Rastafari faith in Jamaica in the 1930s, I-tal Garden emphasizes natural, plant-based ingredients. I-tal focuses on providing plant-based food that nourishes the body and the soul. This small but mighty spot serves dishes such as jackfruit ribs, coconut curry black-eyed peas, and Cajun "oyster" bites. Their serving sizes are as impactful as their flavors.
Original Thought NOLA | 2525 Bayou Rd.
This innovative eatery focuses on delivering original and flavorful plant-based creations. Their menu includes options including loaded mac and cheese bowls, loaded veggie dog, and creative salads bursting with fresh ingredients. For a local twist, try their vegan gumbo or red bean plate, which capture the bold flavors of traditional New Orleans cuisine without any animal products.
Botanicals NOLA | 2401 St. Claude Ave.
Botanicals NOLA offers a breakfast and lunch plant-based dining experience with a menu that highlights fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their dishes include classics such as Belgian waffles, avocado toast, and a wide variety of delicious organic smoothie bowls. For dessert, their vegan cupcakes and muffins provide a comforting end to a healthy meal.
E'co Vegan Cuisine | 2315 St. Claude Ave.
E'co Vegan Cuisine focuses on eco-friendly, sustainable dining with a variety of wholesome vegan dishes. Their menu features savory options including fried vegan tacos, Sloppy Joes, spicy vegan chik'n po-boys, and vegan gumbo. They also offer freshly made juices and smoothies, perfect for a quick, healthy pick-me-up. While they do not offer dine-in, you can order online or stop on by for pick-up and take-out.
Vegan Snack Shack | 928 Hendee St. Suite 100
The Vegan Snack Shack brings bold flavors and creative dishes to the vegan scene in New Orleans. Favorites include the Hollygrove Burger, the jambalaya plate, and their gluten-free macaroni. Their desserts are just as impressive with options such as vegan pop-tarts and cinnamon rolls.
2 Phat Vegans | 3011 Gentilly Blvd.
This fun and vibrant spot offers a unique take on vegan comfort food. Their menu is packed with flavorful options including the Phat Slab Sandwich, vegan loaded fries, and their signature hot sausage po-boy. Be sure to save room for their indulgent desserts, including vegan cupcakes and brownies.
Small Mart | 2700 Chartres St.
Part vegan café, part bagel shop, Small Mart is a haven for plant-based foodies. Their vegan menu, available from noon to 6 p.m., features grab-and-go options such as vegan sandwiches and salads. They also offer a curry bowl and chaat bowl, both of which are flavor packed and filling. Before noon, Small Mart has a wide variety of bagels, with delicious menu offerings and a build your own option. However, please note that their morning menu does include meats and dairy, but, fret not, their vegan bagels are clearly marked.
A Vegan Paradise in the Crescent City
Dining out as a vegan doesn't have to be stressful, and these fully vegan restaurants in New Orleans prove it. With diverse menus, welcoming atmospheres, and a commitment to plant-based cuisine, each of these establishments offer a stress-free dining experience that even non-vegans can enjoy. So whether you're craving soul food, comfort food, or a health conscious menu, New Orleans has something for every vegan palate.
