25 Cleveland Restaurants for Vegan and Vegetarian Diets

Amba

Why we love it: Amba’s small plates are so filling and full of flavor that even meat lovers can leave happy. Chicken, lamb and venison all make menu appearances, but the majority of dishes are meatless. “It’s a nice assortment of flavors, textures and options,” says chef-owner Douglas Katz. “There’s something for everyone, but the idea is that everything works well to eat together.” Industrial minimalism meets moody lighting and intimate details for a look that’s striking yet inviting. Try this: If you’ve never had savory lentil doughnuts ($13), now’s your chance. These South Indian snacks are served with a sweet and spicy serrano chili jam and cooling coconut chutney. 1430 W. 28th St., Cleveland, 216- 417-6718, ambacle.com

Beet Jar

Why we love it: In the heart of Hingetown, Beet Jar proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring, sating Clevelanders’ juice and imaginative sandwich fix. “Having a finite menu of items created in small batches is the trick,” says co-owner Joseph Joseph. Check out the new Van Aken storefront offering a smaller menu of Beet Jar classics and smoothies. Try this: The herb chickpea wrap ($13) is a chickpea-based take on chicken salad that is not only super yummy but also super healthy. Cleveland: 2600 Detroit Ave.; Shaker Heights: 3441 Tuttle Road, beetjar.com

Birch Cafe

Why we love it: Birch Cafe brings delicious, down-to-earth vegan food to Cleveland’s East Side suburbs, an area long underserved by plant-based options. Founder Roxanne O’Brien-Troke left a 17-year marketing career to pursue her passion for inclusive, comforting food and opened Birch in 2019. The welcoming space proudly supports the LGBTQ+ community and regularly hosts pop-ups for a variety of local vegan vendors, helping budding entrepreneurs gain visibility. The small shop's menu features approachable staples like breakfast burritos, flatbreads on Fridays and scratch-made seitan meats including turkey, ham and meatloaf. Try this: The Turk’y Bacon Avocado ($13) features tempeh bacon and fresh avocado on toasted bread covered with vegan mayo. 5557 Wilson Mills Road, Highland Heights, 440-565-7432, birchcafecle.com

Black Market Meats

Why we love it: This scratch-made vegan deli and take‑out storefront in Lakewood is helmed by chef-owner Todd Kronika. Open Wednesday through Saturday, it offers a focused menu of homemade meats and cheeses, hearty sandwiches, skewers, soups and side salads.  Try this: Get the comfort classic ham and cheese ($13) featuring miso cheddar, ham, salami, onion and tomato. Sandwich options rotate weekly, giving these familiar staples a creative twist. 15613 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, blackmarketmeatscle.com

Bodhi Express

Why we love it: The all-vegan Asian fast-casual spot offers quick, flavorful meals. Located in Crocker Park, the counter-service eatery is designed for convenience, but it also delivers on bold flavor, thanks to house-made seasoning and breading that elevate familiar plant-based proteins like Gardein and Beyond Meat. Try this: Crowd favorites include the filling crispy orange “chicken” ($5-$13) and savory Beyond beef and broccoli ($5-$13). 135 Market St., Westlake, 440-772-4400, bodhiexpress.com 

CLE Juice Box

Why we love it: This Mentor-based drive-through is a one-stop shop for fresh, organic, good-for-you foods. The all-vegan, gluten-free menu rotates seasonally, with comfort food taking center stage in colder months. “We make everything in-house,” says owner Erika Zakrajsek. “We try to stay away from anything that’s processed or pre-made.” Try this: The NC (not chicken) vegan nuggets ($8.50) are lentil and sprouted oat-based, served with a choice of Buffalo, barbecue or jalapeno cashew cream sauce. 8587 Mentor Ave., Mentor, 440-289-0727, clejuicebox.com 

Cleveland Vegan  

Why we love it: More than a decade in business has made this an OG spot for plant-based, local cuisine, and a trailblazer in the acclaimed Lakewood dining scene. As a full-service catering company with a bustling cafe and scratch bakery, it offers just about everything but animal products. “It’s always been our goal to showcase a wide variety of vegan foods,” says co-founder Laura Ross. Try this: The classic gyro ($14) features homemade seitan, wrapped in a flatbread alongside lettuce, tomato and tzatziki sauce. 17112 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, 216- 221-0201, clevelandvegan.com

Cloak and Dagger

Why we love it: Moody vibes and creative cocktails reign supreme at this elegant and mysterious Tremont hot spot. With candlelit tables and dark accents, the space sets a sultry tone, giving vegan dining a new sense of  intrigue.“We don’t want to just be the best vegan, we want to be the best,” says owner Cory Hajde. Try this: Though the bar’s themed food and drink menus change with the seasons, the house seasoned popcorn ($4) remains a constant, delicious snack to pair with any cocktail.    2399 W. 11th St., Cleveland,
216-795-5657, cloakanddaggercle.com

Conveniently Vegan

Why we love it: This spot blends soul food comfort with plant-based creativity, all inspired by Chef Koko’s personal journey to better health. After reversing a pre-diabetic diagnosis through veganism, she launched Conveniently Vegan in 2022 to prove that healthy eating can still be craveable. “I’ve always had a passion for cooking," says Koko. "When I started my vegan journey, I knew I had to show people that you can still eat well and eat healthy at the same time, without compromising flavor.” The menu leans into bold flavor with top sellers like jerk quesadillas and the royal burger made with Impossible or Beyond meat and topped with house-made sauces. TRy this: The steak Philly egg rolls ($13.13) come with three per order, are generously sized, crispy and packed with flavor. Call ahead to ask about off-menu exclusives. 15757 Broadway Ave., Maple Heights, 216-395-9601, instagram.com/convenientlyvegancle 

Fengfit Foods 

Why we love it: Tucked inside a Pepper Pike wellness clinic, this hidden gem takes clean eating to the next level. Entirely vegan, gluten-free and free of refined sugar, processed oils and preservatives, the menu rotates seasonally, featuring stir-fries, soups and protein-packed smoothies made with 90% locally sourced organic produce. Try this: The FengFit Veggie Burger ($15) has a savory, seasoned beet patty packed with black beans, mushrooms and chickpeas, topped with greens.    31200 Pinetree Road, Cleveland, fengfitfoods.com

Foodhisattva      

Why we love it: Tucked into a tiny corner of Cleveland Heights, this inventive vegan kitchen turns out thoughtful plant-based cuisine. Open since 2019, the space is cozy and welcoming with a sense of closeness that extends to the menu. Vegan, scratch-made meats, cheeses, sauces and desserts result in a flavor-packed lineup of Asian-fusion dishes that blend familiar comfort food with globally inspired flavors. Weekly specials and rotating baked goods keep the experience fresh, giving even the most loyal regulars some surprises. “One of the things that makes us special is that we’re really community oriented, and we’re an authentically small business,” says co-owner Josh Sias. Try this: The daikon cake ($13) is a traditional dim sum dish with shiitake mushrooms, kabocha puree, Taiwanese sweet chili sauce and garlic sauteed watercress. 2158 S. Taylor Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-938-5675, foodhisattva.com  

Green Goat Cafe Bar 

Why we love it: This Downtown cafe-bar blends wellness,
productivity and comfort in a sleek, health-first space. Founded with a “zero toxin” philosophy, it offers a menu that caters to vegan, gluten-free, keto and paleo diets, without sacrificing comfort or flavor. The stylish space is thoughtfully laid out with cozy corners, EMF-resistant zones and a serene courtyard patio. Try this: The Organic Veggieburger ($16) can be made gluten-free and vegan. It features the house veggie patty made with beans, beets and sushi rice, topped with organic cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickle, toum aioli and blueberry catsup.    2125 Superior Ave., Cleveland, 216-294-0100, greengoatcle.com

Honest Restaurant Cleveland

Why we love it: In Parma Heights, this Indian street food haven has become a go-to for hearty, customizable dishes spanning regional classics: crisp dosas, Mumbai‑style bhaji pav, Indo‑Chinese combos and curries alongside sandwiches and pizzas inspired by Indian flavors. Owner Dharmesh Patel grew up eating at Honest back in Gujarat, which inspired him to open this local outpost in 2023 after immigrating to Cleveland and spending years pursuing the franchise. Try this: The Dabang Dosa ($13.99) is stuffed, rolled and spicy in all the right ways. Cool down with a sweet and smooth mango lassi ($4.99).    6400 York Road,
440-307-2070, Parma Heights,
honestcle.com

Johnny Mango World Cafe & Bar

Why we love it: With the word “world” in its name, you know what kind of cuisine you’re going to get from this funky Ohio City eatery. A neighborhood favorite, it features a dining area filled with colorful artwork and a maze of greenery. Dig into the wholesome Mexican, Asian and Caribbean-inspired food and drink, including a juice bar with fresh-to-order juices, sodas and shakes made with locally grown fruits and vegetables. What you might not expect is the variety of meatless options that have stood the test of time since the ’90s, from tofu and tuna surf-and-turf to jackfruit tacos and Khmer-style fried rice. Try this: Since its big menu debut in 2005, the vegan pad thai ($13.45) has been one of the restaurant’s bestsellers.    3120 Bridge Ave., Cleveland, 216-575-1919, jmango.com 

Juicy Vegan  

Why we love it: This Waterloo spot flips the script on vegan food with mouthwatering flavors that don't compromise on quality — even for meat-eaters who visit the restaurant. “I hope that they find that plants can be packed with flavor too,” says owner Miesha Wilson. The entirely nut-free menu is thoughtfully crafted to accommodate a range of dietary needs, with gluten-free options like jasmine rice bowls and lettuce wraps. Beyond the food, the restaurant fosters community through its monthly “Taste of Vegan” events, which spotlight other local plant-based businesses. Try this: The Juicy Philly Box ($17) is a plant-based twist on the classic cheesesteak, made with pea protein meat, mushrooms, peppers and onions served with a side of fries.    15430 Waterloo Road, Cleveland,
844-685-4331, juicyvegan.net  

Lulo Kitchen and Bar

Why we love it: LULO Kitchen blends Latin-fusion flavor with feel-good nutrition, offering a menu rooted in wellness. Founded by dietitian and nutritionist Stef Montoya, the concept grew out of her vision to create healthy dining that never sacrifices flavor. Drawing on her background, she crafts vibrant, nutrient-rich dishes inspired by Latin American cuisine and local ingredients, many of which are naturally gluten-free, vegetarian and easily customizable. LULO is especially known for cold-pressed tropical juices, herbal teas and creative cocktails, all served with casual elegance. LULO also offers catering for any occasion. "Our catering businesses has become a huge thing. We cater for many sports teams that come to town, including the Guardians, the Cavs and some NBA teams," says owner Mario Montoya. "They really like our food from a nutritional standpoint with how clean and fresh it is." Try this: The quinoa ceviche ($22) is a blend of fresh spinach, avocado, passion fruit, mango salad, fried plantains and cabbage mixed together with a bright lime dressing.    1273 W. Ninth St., Cleveland, 216-929-1053, lulocleveland.com 

Milky Way Cleveland 

Why we love it: Milky Way Cleveland brings something truly unique to the city’s plant-based dining scene: a fully vegetarian, kosher-certified menu rooted in both tradition and innovation. Open since 2020, the South Euclid cafe-style spot follows kosher dietary laws, which naturally makes way for creative vegetarian and vegan offerings. While not fully vegan, the menu clearly labels plant-based options. The fast-casual vibe, with counter service and a warm, welcoming dining area, makes it a perfect neighborhood go-to. Try this: The vegetarian pizzas ($14.95+) are a must-try that come with a variety of topping options and can be made vegan and gluten-free upon request.     1980 Warrensville Center Road, South Euclid, 216-417-4202, milkywaycle.com  

Propaganda Coffee

Why we love it: Gluten-free, soy-free, vegan and full of flavor? This indie cafe is pulling off the seemingly impossible with a menu of creative drinks and light bites that hit all the marks, no matter your dietary restrictions. Propaganda offers a rotating selection of coffee cake, donuts, muffins and cookies. Coffee is locally sourced from Ready Set Coffee Roasters, and each item is baked fresh in house, making the bakery case a reliable stop for something sweet. Try this: The biscuit sandwich ($10.50) is the perfect morning bite of Beyond sausage and vegan egg on a cheddar scallion biscuit.    17806 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, 216-767-5811, instagram.com/propagandacoffeeshop   

Tartine Bistro  

Why we love it: With a full vegan menu that evolves seasonally, Tartine delivers richly layered, thoughtfully plated dishes that feel indulgent and exciting. While the restaurant draws inspiration from French cuisine, the vegan offerings take on a creative life of their own. “We saw a need for more vegan options in a fine dining environment,” says general manager Sarah Migal. Twice a year, Tartine offers its five-course vegan wine dinners, an elegant reminder that plant-based dining can be just as refined as its traditional counterpart. Try this: Standouts include a miso-glazed zucchini ($24) that regularly wins over non-vegan diners and the tofu tartare ($13) topped with candied pecans, dijon, Ohio maple syrup, fried sage and toast points. 19110 Old Detroit Road, Rocky River, 440-331-0800, tartinebistro.com 

Ritual Juicery

Why we love it: Ritual Juicery isn’t your average smoothie stop; it’s a full-blown superfood cafe rooted in clean eating and serious attention to detail. Founded by longtime vegan Alfio Pinzone, this spot serves up scratch-made lunches, house-brewed elixirs and cold-pressed juices packed with up to three pounds of organic produce per bottle. Most of the menu is gluten-free, and nearly every ingredient, from almond milk to vegan mayo, is made in-house. Local and organic produce is sourced in season, and smoothies never rely on ice or fillers. Try this: The Sammy ($11) features carrot lox, avocado, cucumber, radish, pickled red onion, romaine, micro greens and vegan mayo on whole grain bread.    4075 Erie St., Willoughby, 216-217-7458, ritualjuicery.com  

Sage Karma Kitchen 

Why we love it: This Willoughby sit-down spot is everything you want in a vegetarian and vegan-friendly date night: extensive meatless options plus CBD-infused mocktails and an organic vegan wine list. This scratch-made kitchen blends wellness vibes with real culinary chops, serving up a mostly gluten-free menu that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Be sure to check out the Sunday brunch specials offered from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Try this: The Parvati flatbread ($14) is the perfect white pizza, loaded with cherry tomatoes, pickled jalapenos, micro basil, red onion and garlic oil.  The vegan frittata ($14) is a Sunday special filled with zucchini, quinoa, red pepper, red onion and vegan cheese.    4051 Erie St., Willoughby, 440-946-2300, sagekarmakitchens.com  

Squash the Beef

Why we love it:  In an effort to bring hearty, flavorful vegan comfort food to Cleveland, co-owners Candace Maiden and chef Kurtis Williams opened in 2019, crafting Southern and American dishes that won over vegans and non-vegans alike. In 2017, the couple went plant-based, citing a lack of options for satisfying vegan versions of familiar dishes. Everything is entirely nut-free, with gluten-free options available. “We aim to rival non-vegan comfort food so that even people who aren’t vegan still enjoy it," says Maiden. Try this: The Comfort Burger ($10-$15) piles a pea protein patty with fried onions, pickles, cheez sauce and comfort sauce on a toasted pretzel bun. 1400 E. 105th St., Cleveland, 216-245-2128, squashthebeefcle.com  

The Root Cafe    

Why we love it: Since 2009, this Lakewood staple has been setting the bar for quick, easy and delicious plant-based food on the West Side. Boasting a fully vegetarian kitchen and organic scratch bakery, The Root is many locals’ go-to for work-from-home days, meetings and
friend dates. Health-conscious, filling meals are made with seasonal heirloom veggies, and caffeinated creations are made with local Duck Rabbit Coffee. From faux tuna salad sandwiches to breakfast burritos, we suggest trying whatever specials are offered. Try this: Move over, corned beef, there’s a new kid in town. The tempeh Reuben ($14) makes for a perfectly plant-based version of this old-school deli fave. 15118 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, 216-226-4401, theroot-cafe.com  

The Vegan Club

Why we love it: Chef Porscha Phillips is up for the challenge of convincing non-vegans to love vegan food. “I really want to change people’s minds,” she says. Though she dabbles in Asian, Indian and Spanish flavors, her entire menu is infused with a taste of her Southern roots. Down-home touches like okra, pecans and Cajun seasoning provide a true South-in-your-mouth experience, no butter or bacon required. Try this: Phillips is particularly proud of her krab fries ($13), which are, of course, crabless. Hearts of palm and artichoke replicate the texture of crustaceans, and flaky seaweed lends a bit of fishiness. 13228 Shaker Square, Cleveland, 216-465-2054, theveganclubcle.com 

Tommy’s Restaurant 

Why we love it: This Coventry mainstay is known for its massive menu, and it’s not the kind of place with a “no substitutions” clause. Recognizing that Clevelanders’ appetites and food preferences are as diverse as the community itself, owner Tommy Fello has intentionally worked popular substitutions into the restaurant’s offerings, which include milkshakes, brunch fare and some of the area’s earliest Middle Eastern-inspired dishes. “We know a lot of people can’t have things like dairy, gluten or soy,” he says, “so we try to offer something for everybody.” Fello never planned on running a restaurant, but in 1972, the 19-year-old Cleveland Heights High grad bought the Fine Arts Confectionery, where he’d been working since age 14. That humble start grew into the beloved spot it is today, celebrated for hearty meals and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the eclectic neighborhood.  Try this: Tommy’s is probably most famous for its milkshakes and malts ($6.85+). Tofutti and oat milk options mean vegans don’t have to miss out on the fun. Looking for something savory? Choose from 14 falafel options, including classics with veggies and sesame sauce to twists with mushrooms, baba, sunflower seeds and barbecue sauce. 1824 Coventry Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-321-7757,tommyscoventry.com 

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