Special to Road Trips for Foodies
By Sofia Laratta of Tourism Vancouver

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, is a mecca for vegan cuisine with plant-based options lurking in every corner of the city. Here is a list of some of Vancouver’s best vegan and vegetarian spots for all of your plant-based needs:

ACORN

The Acorn is an award-winning, vegetarian restaurant and bar located at the heart of Vancouver’s Main Street. It is a destination for diners seeking the best and most creative meals made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Carefully crafted dishes cater to vegans and gluten-free diners while ensuring that even the staunchest meat eaters leave fully satisfied.

BEYOND MEATBALLS AT TRATTORIA

Trattoria’s famous meatballs go green with their 100% vegetarian Beyond Meat Balls. Hit up the Italian tavern at their Kitsilano, Park Royal, and Burnaby locations, and pair the Beyond Meat Balls with their delicious and authentic tomato sauce.

BUDDHA-FULL

North Vancouver’s local favorite Buddha-Full serves up some of the best smoothies on the North Shore. Known for its Instagrammable décor and plant-based menu, Buddha-Full aims to be a warm light-hearted space that provides amazing nourishment. Check out their new Buddha-Mobile which can be spotted at several festivals and events around Metro Vancouver.

CHICKPEA

This Vancouver eatery is aptly named, never ceasing to disappoint the chickpea enthusiast. Chickpea’s menu showcases delicious plant-based comfort food with a Mediterranean twist. Don’t forget to try the chickpea fries when you visit their Main Street location or mobile Chickpea Truck.

EAST IS EAST

Located on Vancouver’s trendy and diverse West Broadway, East is East captures the vibrant energy of the charming dhabbas that represent the beauty and unique flavors of the ancient silk road. East is East provides vegan and vegetarian alternatives for the majority of their menu items, leaving no diner hungry.

HEIRLOOM

With its first location on 12th Avenue, Heirloom has quickly expanded with two more locations including their Granville Juice Bar and Ambleside sit down or take out establishment in West Vancouver. Heirloom offers a contemporary dining experience coupled with a vegetarian food menu that boasts healthy, eloquent, and addictive food.

MEET

If you’re in search of a vibrant vegan menu, cool cocktails, and a lively atmosphere, MeeT is the spot for you. With locations in Gastown, Yaletown, and Mount Pleasant, MeeT leaves plant lovers with several options. Menu items include an assortment of vegan poutine, bowls, burgers, and desserts.

THE NAAM

The restaurant began its career as a small café in 1968, which has since grown into a full-service, 24-hour eatery and Kitsilano landmark. Their extensive menu includes items like the vegan Dragon Bowl, Thai Noodles, and a variety of veggie burgers.

NUBA

This Lebanese eatery with a true family foundation offers diners a menu filled with vegan options. The restaurant seeks out the freshest ingredients, organic and local when available, and handpicks them daily. The menu houses original recipes and ingredients that have been passed down through several generations.

VANCOUVER VEGAN FOOD TOUR

Vancouver Food Tours’ new tour includes some of Vancouver’s top vegan spots such as a vegan pizza place. Bites may include locally made tempeh, Kombucha, and dairy-free gelato.

(Photo courtesy of Tourism Vancouver)