The Flaming Ice Cube
Why we love it: Stop at this downtown vegan spot before heading into work for a breakfast sandwich or swing by for lunch for one of its burgers, quinoa bowls, wraps or paninis. "People are learning more about what they're putting into their bodies and how it impacts the world," says owner and founder Michele Barratt. Try this: The TLT ($7.95), made with grilled organic smoky tempeh, lettuce, tomatoes, onion and vegan mayo on grilled ciabatta.140 Public Square, Cleveland, 216-263-1111, flamingicecube.com
Pure & Supreme Cuisine
Why we love it: Located in downtown Cleveland's 5th Street Arcades, this restaurant makes eating healthy and fun with soups and salads that are easy to grab on your lunch break. "Everything I do is tasty and flavorful," says owner Amirah Sultanta. Try this: The cheesesteak salad ($8) with vegan meat, vegan cheese, fresh greens, avocado, tomatoes, carrots, onion, grilled peppers and garlic dressing.530 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216-527-4477
Root Cafe
Why we love it: The Lakewood cafe uses produce from Cleveland Crops and Bay Branch Farms and vegan bread from Breadsmith Bakery to make salads, sandwiches and pizzas. "I'm all about the vegetables being served raw with its full flavor," says co-owner Julie Hutchison. Try this: The wet burrito ($7) filled with beans, rice, spicy cilantro and enchilada sauce on a wheat wrap.15118 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, 216-226-4401, theroot-cafe.com
Tommy's
Why we love it: What started as a soda fountain in 1972 has evolved into a family-friendly restaurant known for its extensive vegan menu. "If customers can't have dairy or gluten or things like that, we adapt," says owner Tommy Fello. "Everyone can eat here and nobody's shortchanged." Try this: The Delaney ($9.50), a fried tempeh sandwich with spinach, lettuce, sauerkraut and daiya cheese on grilled rye bread.
TownHall
Why we love it: Although its Monday Vegan Night is popular (Vegan Sweet Tooth even brings in dessert), the Ohio City hot spot has a full lineup of vegan dishes on the menu every day. "We like to come up with different creative items based on customers' input," says general manager Ryan Hartzell. Try this: Available Monday night, the black bean quinoa falafel steam buns ($7.50) are served with pickled red onions and Sriracha cucumber vegan aioli.1909 W. 25th St., Cleveland 216-344-9400, townhallohiocity.com
