Vegan Dining Destinations in Atlanta (3/4)

The plant-based movement is in full swing, with a growing number of people committed to embracing a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains. While this is not a new phenomenon, vegan dining continues to gain momentum, reflecting a collective shift towards healthier and more sustainable dietary choices. A top health and wellness goal for many, the popularity of this trend is evident not only in the increasing availability of plant-based options at restaurants and grocery stores but also in the proliferation of online resources and social media platforms dedicated to vegan and vegetarian lifestyles.

As more people recognize the health and wellness benefits of plant-based dining, this trend will continue to flourish, inspiring positive change for both individuals and the planet. In Atlanta, this has translated into a growing number of plant-based eateries popping up across the city, offering innovative and delicious alternatives to traditional meat-based dishes. From vegan soul food joints to plant-based sushi bars, there is no shortage of options when it comes to nourishing and sustainable, plant-powered cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just curious to explore new culinary horizons, these establishments offer delicious, satisfying meals that are good for your taste buds and the planet.

So, the next time you are in the city, be sure to savor the flavors of these top vegan dining destinations and join the growing movement towards a more sustainable and compassionate food future.

• Plant-Based Pizzerias – Pizza enthusiasts need not compromise their dietary choices in Atlanta, thanks to the emergence of plant-based pizzerias. These establishments craft pies that are not only delicious but also cruelty-free and environmentally conscious. One standout is “Slutty Vegan,” known for its indulgent vegan burgers but also offering a selection of mouthwatering pizzas topped with fresh vegetables, plant-based cheeses and savory sauces. “Emmy Squared Pizza” is another must-visit spot. With locations in West Midtown and Glenwood Park, it offers a variety of vegan pizza options that are absolutely delicious. The dough is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and the toppings are fresh and flavorful.

• Ethical Eateries – For conscious diners seeking more than just a meal, Atlanta boasts several ethical eateries that prioritize sustainability and social responsibility. “Cafe Sunflower” is a beloved institution known for its upscale vegan cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients. From crispy tofu appetizers to decadent desserts, every dish is crafted with care and creativity. Similarly, “Herban Fix” offers a contemporary dining experience with a focus on Asian-inspired vegan fare, including sushi rolls, dumplings and flavorful stir-fries.

• Farm-to-Table Fare – In Atlanta’s burgeoning food scene, farm-to-table concepts are not limited to omnivorous establishments. Several vegan restaurants are committed to sourcing their produce from local farms, ensuring freshness and supporting the community. “Soul Vegetarian” is a prime example, offering soulful Southern cuisine made with organic, seasonal ingredients. Diners can enjoy classics like BBQ jackfruit sandwiches and collard greens, all while knowing that their meal supports sustainable farming practices. Another standout is “True Food Kitchen,” a health-focused eatery offering a diverse menu of vegan and vegetarian dishes made from scratch using ingredients sourced from nearby farms.

• Vegan Comfort Food – Sometimes, nothing beats the comforting flavors of classic comfort food, and in Atlanta, vegans can indulge in their favorite nostalgic dishes without compromising their principles. “Plant-Based Pizzeria” is a go-to spot for hearty vegan comfort food, including macaroni and cheese, loaded nachos and buffalo cauliflower wings. Similarly, “Soul Vegetarian” offers a soulful twist on comfort classics, such as fried okra, cornbread and creamy mashed potatoes. For a taste of vegan Southern hospitality, “Cafe Sunflower” serves up comforting dishes like vegetable lasagna, shepherd’s pie and creamy mushroom risotto.

• Vegan Bakeries and Dessert Destinations – No culinary journey is complete without satisfying your sweet tooth, and Atlanta’s vegan bakeries and dessert destinations deliver decadent treats that rival their non-vegan counterparts. “Dulce Vegan Bakery & Cafe” is a local favorite, offering a tempting array of vegan pastries, cakes and cookies, all made with high-quality, plant-based ingredients. From indulgent chocolate truffles to delicate fruit tarts, there’s something for every dessert lover at this charming bakery. Similarly, “Flour + Time” offers a little plant-based indulgence and comfort. Located on Huff Road in West Midtown, Flour + Time sells pastries, pies, treats, bread, biscuits, cookies and more.

• Additional Vegan/Vegetarian Choices – With so many outstanding vegan options being served up across Atlanta, it would be a miss not to include these additional favorites. While these restaurants may not fit neatly into one of the categories above, they are well worth the visit.

Located in the Orient Center on Buford Highway, “Harmony Vegetarian” includes an entire menu filled with vegan and vegetarian Chinese dishes, including lo mein, hot pots, Kung Po “chicken” and Moo Shu “pork.” The restaurant also lists several steamed and pan-fried dumplings on the menu, like vegetarian soup dumplings. Don’t be fooled by the “meats” listed on the menu here — it’s all vegan.

“Desta Ethiopian Kitchen” is one of Atlanta’s most beloved Ethiopian spots, this cozy eatery gets a lot of props, and while it’s not an exclusively vegetarian restaurant, its veggie dishes – including the outstanding vegetarian platter, which boasts things like boldly spiced yellow peas, red lentils, curried potatoes, collard greens, etc. – are arguably the best way to enjoy DEK’s exotic flavors, especially if you pair them with an Ethiopian beer or the honey wine.

For those who claim the vegan lifestyle, you may occasionally like a little plant-based junk food, but real ones are all about raw food. This is precisely what “Lov’n It Live,” located across the street from East Point City Hall, offers – organic living and vegan cuisine. Pull up here for lunch or dinner; the best options include cabbage nutmeat tacos, the super-green “Vitality” soup, vegan lasagna made of pine nut cheese and zucchini noodles, stir-fried sweet and sour veggies or go romantic with a five-course vegan dinner for two, which includes soup, salad, app, entree, dessert and a non-alcoholic drink for you and your significant other.

“La Semilla” began as Happy Seed (a small pop-up) that kept growing in popularity until it blossomed into a full brick-and-mortar location with a new name. Now, this Reynoldstown spot brings the vibes with a dining area stuffed with actual plants, beachy decor and an occasional DJ. The Latin-inspired menu delivers the city’s best vegan takes on popular Cuban and Tex-Mex dishes. Their legendary Crunchwrap is a fan favorite, and their dense fried chocolates in a fresh coconut-corn broth give new meaning to sweet memories.

It is hard not to fixate on the enticing display case full of cake in the back corner of “Full Taste Vegan,” but instead, immediately take a seat on a lime green chair because you’ll need some time with the menu. If variety is the spice of life, this Chamblee kitchen is peppering it on with one of the biggest, most diverse plant-based menus in the city. They serve lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch with creative, scratch-made dishes like delicious deviled “eggs” and a hearty “steak” and gravy. Add in all the desserts and a long list of pressed juice, and this place is almost the plant-based equivalent of Cheesecake Factory.

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