The “Big Easy” is home to some of the best French Creole and Cajun fare in the country. For spicy vegetarian-friendly alternatives to the classic dishes, try these best vegetarian restaurants in New Orleans.
Who needs anything else when vegetarian dishes taste *this* amazing? These are our top picks of both dedicated vegetarian restaurants and places doing their bit to promote plant-based choices on their menus.
Best vegetarian restaurants in New Orleans, Louisiana
How do these rankings work?
1. Max Well
Max Well serves lunch and dinner and sticks to vegetarian fare such as salads, soups and bowls. There are protein sides ranging from hummus to lentils, and they have expanded entree offerings at dinner. Try the NOLA Bowl which features red beans, brown rice, cajun coleslaw and a jalapeño millet muffin.
2. Bearcat Cafe
This sleek and minimalist daytime cafe is a light and airy space for delicious, plant-based comfort foods. They make favourites ranging from pancakes and biscuits to fruit bowls and eggs with sweet potato hash. The artisan coffees are a must too.
3. Meals From The Heart Cafe
This French Quarter hole-in-the-wall is a vegan and gluten-free delight. The health-conscious menu packs tons of flavour into New Orleans dishes like po-boys, gumbo and more. Order the vegan crab cake po-boy with a side of red beans and rice.
4. Sweet Soufood
This low-key eatery serves up all things soul food with vegan options. There’s tons of Cajun spice and authentic flavour. Try the jambalaya or the okra jumbo. The stuffed peppers are also a hit.
5. Breads on Oak
For a vegan- and vegetarian-friendly breakfast, try Breads on Oak. The local bakery whips up pastries, breads and muffins in their stone-hearth oven as well as light cafe bites such as soups and sandwiches. Get the pumpkin-cheddar biscuit topped with tofu scramble and vegan andouille sausage.
6. The Daily Beet
For a light bite, head to The Daily Beet. They make fresh, cold-pressed juices and smoothies daily as well as grain bowls and toasts with creative toppings. Try the Beet Benedict toast which features avocado, miso-beet hollandaise and spinach.
7. 1000 Figs
This brick-and-mortar front from the Fat Falafel food truck serves up Mediterranean dishes made with seasonal ingredients. The setting is light and airy with tons of greenery, and the plates are always artfully and colourfully presented. Start with the beet and pecan dip and order the falafel platter.
