Vegetarian Journal's Guide to Natural Foods Restaurants in the U.S. and Canada

Symbol Key:

• Vegetarian restaurant
•• Vegan restaurant
§ Reviewer's choice

Illinois

Arlington Heights

·Chowpatti Vegetarian Restaurant

1035 S. Arlington Heights Rd., Arlington Heights, IL 60005

(847) 640-9554

Vegetarian/international. This family-owned vegetarian restaurant serves international fare--American, Italian, French, Mexican, and Middle Eastern dishes. Everything is homemade and prepared fresh. Open Tuesday through Sunday for lunch and dinner. Closed Monday. Full service, vegan options, take-out, catering, fresh juices, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $-$$.

Barrington

·Happy Buddha

207 W. Northwest Hwy., Ste. A, Barrington, IL 60010

(847) 304-1472

Vegetarian/Vietnamese. Happy Buddha serves an all-vegetarian and mostly vegan menu of Vietnamese cuisine. Try entrées such as Sauteed Lemongrass Soy Tofu, Vegan Soy Chicken Fried Noodles, Vegetables in Curry Sauce, or Vietnamese Rice Crepes. Prices are very reasonable, and they offer a terrific weekday lunch special too. Open Monday through Saturday for lunch and dinner. Closed Sunday. Full service, vegan options, take-out, soymilk, VISA/MC, $.

Champaign

Fiesta Café

216 S. First St., Champaign, IL 61820

(217) 352-5902

Mexican. You will find many vegetarian options here. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, take-out, wine/beer/alcohol, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $.

Chicago

(For restaurant listings in the surrounding areas, see Evanston, Oak Park, Skokie, and Westmont.)

·A Natural Harvest

7122 S. Jeffery Blvd., Chicago, IL 60649

(773) 363-3939

Vegetarian/natural foods store/juice bar. A Natural Harvest is a natural foods store featuring grab-n-go vegetarian and vegan meals. Soups, salads, sandwiches, and raw foods are freshly prepared on-site daily. Open Monday through Saturday. Closed Sunday. Take-out, vegan options, take-out, catering, fresh juices, smoothies, special beverages, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $-$$.

Aladdin's Eatery

614 W. Diversey Pkwy., Chicago-Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL 60614

(773) 327-6300

Middle Eastern/Lebanese. Aladdin's Eatery is a popular regional restaurant franchise offering Middle Eastern cuisine. Their website boasts that over 70 menu items are vegetarian or vegan. These include Lentil Soup, Vegetarian Chili, Hummus, Tabbouleh, Dawali (stuffed grape leaves), Baba Ghanouj, Falafel, and Vegetarian Rolled Pitas. Enjoy Lebanese cuisine, a relaxing atmosphere, and friendly service at Aladdin's Eatery. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, take-out, catering, fresh juices, smoothies, beer/wine, special beverages, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $$.

··Amitabul

6207 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, IL 60646

(773) 774-0276

Vegan/Korean. Enjoy unique vegan Korean cuisine at this terrific restaurant. Portions are huge, and the food is creatively presented. Try Maki Rolls, Vegan Tofu Young, vegan egg rolls, grilled dumplings, soups, vegan pancakes made from various batters, noodle-based dishes, plus much more! Amitabul is located between Huntington Street & Raven Street in Norwood Park. Open Tuesday through Sunday for lunch and dinner. Closed Monday. Full service, take-out, fresh juices, VISA/MC/AMEX, $-$$.

·Arya Bhavan

2508 W. Devon Ave., Chicago, IL 60659

(773) 274-5800

Vegetarian/Indian. Arya Bhavan specializes in North and South Indian vegetarian cuisine. Vegan dishes are noted on the menu as well as dishes that can be made vegan upon request. Selections include Tadka Dal (lentils cooked with ginger, garlic & spices), Potato Batani Korma (fried dumplings of lentils in a gravy of poppy seeds, chilies & garlic), and Paper Masala Dosa (crepes filled with potatoes & onions). They offer an all raw evening buffet on Mondays. Try their delicious weekend dinner buffet. Open Monday for dinner buffet. Open Tuesday through Sunday for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, take-out, delivery, catering, special beverages, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $$.

Café Selmarie

4729 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago, IL 60625

(773) 989-5595

Café. Vegetarian options include vegetarian chili and soups. Open Monday for lunch. Open Tuesday through Friday for three meals. Open Saturday and Sunday for brunch and dinner. Full service, take-out, espresso/cappuccino, soymilk, beer/wine, special beverages, VISA/MC, $-$$.

§·Chicago Diner

3411 N. Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60657

(773) 935-6696

2333 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, IL 60657

(773) 252-3211

Vegetarian/American/eclectic. The Chicago Diner, the hub for the animal rights movement in the Midwest, serves an eclectic menu of vegetarian comfort food. All items are vegan or have a vegan option. Their bakery specializes in vegans sweets and can create the wedding cake of your dreams. The owners have traveled extensively and are dedicated to promoting healthy eating for the sake of humans, the planet, and animals. The Chicago Diner has been "Meat Free Since '83" and is worth a visit when in the Windy City. The Halsted Street location is in Lakeview. The Milwaukee Avenue location is in Logan Square and is closed on Tuesdays. Open daily for brunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, take-out, catering, wine/beer/alcohol, special beverages, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $-$$.

Club Lucky

1824 W. Wabansia Ave., Chicago, IL 60622

(773) 227-2300

Italian. Start your meal with the Club Lucky Veggie Antipasti, then choose from such favorites as spicy homemade penne arrabiata and eggplant parmigiana. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, take-out, espresso/cappuccino, beer/wine/alcohol, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC/DC, $$-$$$.

·Cousin's Incredible Vitality

3038 W. Irving Park Rd., Chicago, IL 60618

(773) 478-6868

Vegetarian/raw foods/organic. Cousin's Incredible Vitality is an organic and raw foods restaurant with an all-vegetarian menu; if not for bee pollen in some beverages, it would be completely vegan. Enjoy Mediterranean Noodles, RAWvioli, Rainbow Guacamole, Live Pizza, Triple Taco, and a wide selection of non-dairy cheesecakes. A Living Buffet is offered all day every day for a great price. More than just a restaurant, Cousin's hosts frequent events including classes, workshops, lectures, and cooking demos; their store sells books, prepared food for carry-out, organic ingredients, and live food boxes. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, take-out, delivery, catering, fresh juices, smoothies, special beverages, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $$-$$$.

·Delicious Café

3827 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago, IL 60613

(773) 477-9840

Vegetarian/café/coffeehouse. Delicious Café is an almost entirely vegan café (the only exception is the availability of dairy milk for beverages) in North Center. Stop in for a quick bite or to relax with a coffee and vegan sweet. Open Monday through Saturday for three meals. Open Sunday for brunch and dinner. Limited service, vegan options, take-out, espresso/cappuccino, soymilk, VISA/MC/DISC, $-$$.

Feast

1616 N. Damen Ave., Chicago, IL 60647

(773) 772-7100

25 E. Delaware Pl., Chicago, IL 60647

(312) 337-4001

International. Feast considers itself a "neighborhood restaurant with a global beat." For dinner try the mixed baby greens with grilled asparagus or the penne pasta with pine nuts and sundried tomatoes. Open daily for dinner. Open Saturday and Sunday for brunch. Full service, vegan options, espresso/cappucino, smoothies, special beverages, beer/wine/alcohol, VISA/MC, $$$.

Foodlife

835 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611

(312) 335-3663

Natural foods. This unique restaurant is set up with 13 different kitchen areas, almost like a food court, with names like "Mother Earth Grains" (which is mostly vegetarian), Asian, "Mighty Nice," and "Miracle Juice Bar." Dishes found at these areas range from soy burgers to portabello mushrooms to Tuscan veggies and much more. A very unique dining experience. Open daily for three meals. Limited service, vegan options, take-out, fresh juices, espresso/cappuccino, VISA/MC/AMEX, $$.

Gaylord India Restaurant

678 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60610

(312) 664-1700

Indian. Indian food is freshly prepared using no canned or processed ingredients. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, wine/beer/alcohol, take-out, VISA/MC/AMEX, $$.

··Great Taste Café

355 E. Grand Ave., Chicago, IL 60611

(312) 527-1211

Vegan/natural foods/organic. The Great Taste Café is a sustainable and eco-friendly restaurant located in downtown Chicago. With an emphasis on organic, local, and seasonal ingredients, their completely vegan and gluten-free menu is fresh and flavorful. Formerly The Balanced Kitchen, the Great Taste Café is on the 2nd floor of the Holmes Place Fitness Center, but they are open to the general public. Open Monday through Friday for three meals. Open Saturday and Sunday for brunch and early dinner. Limited service, take-out, catering, fresh juices, smoothies, soymilk, espresso/cappuccino, special beverages, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $$.

Green Zebra

1460 W. Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL 60622

(312) 243-7100

Natural foods. This hip yet intimate restaurant is almost entirely vegetarian, with a concentration on raw foods and organics. The seasonal menu often includes Jerusalem artichoke soup; curry-spiced eggplant potstickers with pickled cucumbers; an avocado panna cotta made with tomato gelée, créme fraiche, and sweet corn chips; shiitake mushrooms rolled in cabbage and potatoes; and Hawaiian heart of palm with kaffir lime and Thai basil chili. Reservations recommended. Open daily for dinner. Full service, vegan options, wine, VISA/MC/AMEX, $$$.

Handlebar

2311 W. North Ave., Chicago, IL 60647

(773) 384-9546

American. This bicycle-themed restaurant located in Wicker Park has daily drink specials, a beer garden, and late night kitchen service. Veggie menu items include vegan French toast, breakfast burrito, Buffalo "chicken" wrap, BBQ seitan sandwich, ground nut stew, and blackened tofu fajitas. Open daily for three meals through late night. Full service, vegan options, take-out, fresh juices, soymilk, espresso/cappuccino, beer/wine/alcohol, special beverages, VISA/MC, $$.

Heartland Café

7000 N. Glenwood, Chicago, IL 60626

(773) 465-8005

Natural foods. Open since 1976, this restaurant serves "good wholesome foods for the mind and body" in a comfortable environment. Feast on appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, burritos, quesadillas, pizza, and vegetarian specialties. There is late-night music and dancing on winter weekends and outdoor dining during warm months. The café is accompanied by a general store that features holistic and political magazines, and merchandise. Open daily for three meals. Full service, vegan options, fresh juices, smoothies, soymilk, cappuccino/espresso, wine/beer/alcohol, take-out, VISA/MC/AMEX, $$.

John's Place

1200 W. Webster Ave., Chicago, IL 60614

(773) 525-6670

2132 W. Roscoe St., Chicago, IL 60614

(773) 244-6430

American. Try the vegetarian chili, soba noodles, veggie burrito, or one of the other vegetarian options. Open Tuesday through Friday for lunch and dinner. Open Saturday and Sunday for brunch and dinner. Closed Monday. Full service, take-out, catering, fresh juices, espresso/cappuccino, VISA/MC/DISC, $$.

··Karyn's Cooked

738 N. Wells St., Chicago, IL 60610

(312) 587-1050

Vegan/gourmet. Karyn's Cooked offers "conscious comfort food" that is all-vegan! Enjoy Homestyle Meat Loaf, BBQ Ribs (made of tofu & seitan), Jerk Tofu Wrap, Meatball Sub, and Sloppy Joes. Many items are gluten-free or can be made gluten-free and are noted on the menu. Karyn's Cooked is a sister restaurant to Karyn's Fresh Corner Café, Karyn's Raw Vegan Gourmet Restaurant, and Karyn's on Green, all in Chicago also. Reservations are highly recommended. Open Monday through Saturday for lunch and dinner. Open Sunday for brunch and dinner. Full service, take-out, catering, fresh juices, smoothies, soymilk, beer/wine/alcohol, special beverages, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $$-$$$.

··Karyn's Fresh Corner Café

1901 N. Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60614

(312) 255-1590

Vegan/raw foods/café/juice bar. Karyn's Fresh Corner Café is a raw foods café, juice bar, and small market in Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood. Primarily for take-out, the café offers a daily Raw Salad Bar with an ever-changing selection. Also available are raw foods sandwiches, spreads, entrées, snacks, and desserts. Karyn's Fresh Corner Café is in the same location as Karyn's Raw Vegan Gourmet Restaurant and a sister restaurant to Karyn's Cooked and Karyn's on Green, both also in Chicago. Open daily. Take-out, catering, fresh juices, smoothies, special beverages, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $$.

··Karyn's on Green

130 S. Green St., Chicago, IL 60607

(312) 226-6155

Vegan/American. Karyn's on Green is a contemporary restaurant offering creative, vegan versions of classic American dishes. Enjoy such items as Butternut Squash Soup, Sweet Corn Risotto, Lentil Salad, and Tofu Gumbo. Raw foods items as well as dishes free of gluten, soy, and/or nuts/seeds are noted on the menu. Karyn's on Green is a sister restaurant to Karyn's Cooked, Karyn's Fresh Corner Café, and Karyn's Raw Vegan Gourmet Restaurant, also in Chicago. Reservations are highly recommended. Open Tuesday through Saturday for lunch and dinner. Open Sunday for brunch and dinner. Closed Monday. Full service, take-out, catering, beer/wine/alcohol, special beverages, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $$-$$$.

··Karyn's Raw Vegan Gourmet Restaurant

1901 N. Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60614

(312) 255-1590

Vegan/raw foods/organic. Karyn's Raw Vegan Gourmet Restaurant offers fine dining in Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood. The restaurant has no oven but serves creative raw foods like Mango Lassi Soup, Zucchini Hummus, Wild Arugula Salad, Basil Scented Ravioli, and Shiitake Carpaccio. Karyn's Raw is in the same location as Karyn's Fresh Corner Café and a sister restaurant to Karyn's Cooked and Karyn's on Green, both also in Chicago. Reservations are highly recommended. Open Monday through Saturday for lunch and dinner. Open Sunday for brunch. Full service, take-out, catering, special beverages, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $$-$$$.

Kopi, A Traveler's Café

5317 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60640

(773) 989-5674

Café. Decorated with clocks that show the time in different zones around the world and an area with pillow seating and low tables where customers must remove their shoes, the owners of this establishment aim to show customers many different world cultures in one café. While taking in all the sights, don't forget to try one of the international dishes on the mostly vegetarian menu. Also, the home of an international shop selling travel books, clothing, jewelry, and arts and crafts from around the world. Open daily for three meals. Full service, vegan options, fresh juices, espresso/cappuccino, VISA/MC, $-$$.

··Loving Hut

5812 N. Broadway St., Chicago, IL 60660

(773) 275-8797

Vegan/Asian/American. It's the same chef, the same food, and the same location, but Alice & Friends Vegetarian Café has become Loving Hut! Loving Hut is an international vegan restaurant chain with the slogan, "Be Veg. Go Green. Save the Planet." They offer gourmet vegan cuisine "for those making the noble transition to a plant-based diet." Although the menu varies by location, it typically includes appetizers, soups, salads, entrées, desserts, and special beverages. Both Asian and American meals are served including mock meat and vegetable dishes. Loving Hut was created with a vision that all beings could live in peace, love, and harmony with each other and the planet. The Chicago location is closed between lunch and dinner, so please call ahead for hours. Open Wednesday through Monday for dinner. Closed Tuesday. Full service, take-out, fresh juices, smoothies, espresso/cappuccino, special beverages, VISA/MC/AMEX, $-$$.

·Mana Food Bar

1742 W. Division St., Chicago, IL 60622

(773) 342-1742

Vegetarian/contemporary. Mana Food Bar is a warm, inviting restaurant offering an all-vegetarian menu of international fare. They have an enclosed heated patio for outdoor dining that is open most of the year. Mana is located in Wicker Park. Open Sunday through Friday for dinner. Open Saturday for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, take-out, delivery, catering, fresh juices, smoothies, beer/wine/alcohol, VISA/MC/AMEX, $-$$.

·Mysore Woodlands

2548 W. Devon Ave., Chicago, IL 60659

(773) 338-8160

Vegetarian/Indian. Mysore Woodlands specializes in Southern Indian cuisine. Options include a variety of appetizers, soups, uthappam (Indian style pancakes), dosai (rice crepes filled with vegetables and legumes), curries, rice, bread, and more. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, VISA/MC, $-$$.

··Native Foods

1484 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, IL 60622

(773) 489-8480

218 S. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60622

(312) 332-6332

1023 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago, IL 60657

(773) 549-4904

Vegan/natural foods/organic. Native Foods uses tempeh, seitan, and textured vegetable protein (TVP) to make many of the dishes found at this all-vegan restaurant. Try the Jerk Burger made with spicy grilled seitan, a mock fish sandwich called the Moby Dick, Indonesian tempeh chips, or Japanese buckwheat noodle stir-fry called Yakisoba. Please note that the location on S. Clark Street is closed on Sundays. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Limited service, take-out, beer/wine, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $$.

Old Jerusalem Restaurant

1411 N. Wells St., Chicago, IL 60610

(312) 944-0459

Middle Eastern. For over 30 years, Old Jerusalem has been serving Middle Eastern favorites from falafel and hummus to baba ghanouj and tabbouleh. There is a vegetarian section on the menu with appetizers and entrées available. Open daily lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, take-out, delivery, catering, fresh juices, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $$.

Reza's Restaurant

432 W. Ontario St., Chicago, IL 60610

(312) 664-4500

5255 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60610

(773) 561-1898

2423 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60614

(773) 244-0300

Persian. There are more than 20 clearly listed vegetarian appetizers at Reza's, including Vegetable Casserole, Roasted Zucchini in Tomato Sauce, and Eggplant Steak. Vegetarian platters are also served, as well as six different veggie combination lunches. Reza's also offers an elegant 20s style décor, outdoor seating when weather permits, and a seated bar. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, take-out, delivery, catering, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC/DC, $$.

Russian Tea Time

77 E. Adams St., Chicago, IL 60604

(312) 360-0000

Russian. This elegant, upscale Russian restaurant offers unmatched hospitality and a good selection of vegetarian and vegan options. Several traditional vegetarian appetizers and entrées are clearly marked on the menu, including dishes like potato pancakes, grilled portobello mushrooms, Baked Eggplant stuffed with sautéed vegetables, Mung Bean and Vegetable Stew, stuffed green bell peppers, and many others. Open Monday through Friday for three meals. Open Saturday and Sunday for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, espresso/cappuccino, wine/beer/alcohol, reservations recommended, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC/DC, $$$.

·Soul Vegetarian East

205 E. 75th St., Chicago, IL 60619

(773) 224-0104

Vegetarian/soul food. Various ethnic dishes are featured at Soul Vegetarian, including African, Middle Eastern, and American fare. Examples include Vegetarian Ribs, Tofu Fish, Sunflower-Seed Burger, and Split Pea and Chickenless Noodle Soup. Except for the occasional use of honey, the dishes are vegan. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, take-out, fresh juices, VISA/MC, $-$$.

Star of Siam

11 E. Illinois St., Chicago, IL 60611

(312) 670-0100

Thai. All dishes can be prepared without meat or with tofu or veggie substitutes. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, take-out, delivery, catering, special beverages, wine/beer/alcohol, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $$.

·Sweet Cakes Bakery

901 N. Damen Ave., Chicago, IL 60622

(773) 772-5771

Vegetarian bakery. Thirty-five percent of the items at Sweet Cakes Bakery are vegan. Vegan options include cakes, muffins, and scones along with customer favorites' mini-cupcakes, mini-breads, and cookies. Open Tuesday through Sunday. Closed Monday. Limited service, vegan options, take-out, catering, espresso/cappuccino, soymilk, special beverages, VISA/MC/DISC, $.

·Udupi Palace

2543 W. Devon Ave., Chicago, IL 60659

(773) 338-2152

Vegetarian/Indian. Udupi Palace features traditional southern Indian cuisine. They recommend the Masala Dosa as the "most popular item," but they also feature vegetarian appetizers, breads, soups curries, rice specialties, and entrées. Udupi Palace is closed between lunch and dinner, so please call ahead for hours. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, take-out, catering, fresh juices, special beverages, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC/DC, $-$$.

··Urban Vegan

1605 W. Montrose Ave., Chicago, IL 60613

(773) 404-1109

Vegan/Thai. Urban Vegan offers an extensive all-vegan menu of Thai cuisine along with some American favorites. Enjoy such dishes as Yellow Curry, Papaya Salad, Pad Thai, Wonton Noodle Soup, or Grilled Tofu Burger. Make sure to try their daily lunch or dinner combinations for a lot of food at a great price. Wheat-free menus are available. Urban Vegan is located in the Lakeview neighborhood of Chicago. Reservations are accepted. Open Monday for dinner. Open Tuesday through Sunday for lunch and dinner. Full service, take-out, delivery, catering, VISA/MC, $-$$.

·Vegetarian Express

3109 N. Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60657

(773) 880-9155

Vegetarian/natural foods. Vegetarian Express wants to provide delicious vegetarian food that everyone can afford. They create homemade, unprocessed, and creative dishes using their own original recipes and provide vegan, raw, and gluten-free selections in order to accommodate all customers. Mostly for take-out, there are a few tables if you want to eat in. Free parking is available in the CVS lot next door. Vegetarian Express is located in Lakeview. Open daily for three meals. Counter service, vegan options, take-out, delivery, catering, fresh juices, smoothies, soymilk, VISA/MC, $.

·Victory's Banner

2100 W. Roscoe St., Chicago, IL 60618

(773) 665-0227

Vegetarian/American. This mostly ovo-lacto vegetarian restaurant offers some variations on standard American breakfast and lunch fare. Outdoor seating is available. Open Wednesday through Monday for breakfast and lunch. Closed Tuesday. Full service, vegan options, take-out, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $-$$.

··Yah's Cuisine

2347 E. 75th St., Chicago, IL 60649

(773) 759-8517

Vegan/soul food. Some customer favorites at Yah's Cuisine are eggplant lasagna, veggie fish, veggie burgers, and noodle casserole. The all-vegan menu changes depending on the day of the week but usually includes wraps, pies, milkshakes, and traditional soul food such as corn bread, greens, yams, black-eyed peas, dressing, 'steak' stir-fry, African rice, red beans, and macaroni & cheese. The majority of items are gluten-free. Open Tuesday through Sunday for lunch and dinner. Closed Monday. Buffet, take-out, delivery, catering, fresh juices, smoothies, soymilk, special beverages, VISA/MC/DISC, $$.

Downers Grove

··Borrowed Earth Café

970 Warren Ave., Downers Grove, IL 60515

(630) 795-1729

Vegan/raw foods/organic. Borrowed Earth Café offers organic and raw cuisine in an eclectic setting. Their all-vegan menu includes the, "I Can't Believe It's Not An Egg Salad Sandwich." All food is made-to-order, but is also available for take-out or in weekly or monthly food boxes. Located in downtown Downers Grove, Borrowed Earth Café frequently features classes, workshops, and guest speakers. Open Monday for dinner. Open Tuesday through Saturday for lunch and dinner. Closed Sunday. Full service, take-out, catering, fresh juices, smoothies, VISA/MC/DISC, $$-$$$.

Elmhurst

·Brain Freeze Ice Cream Shop

110 W. Park Ave., Elmhurst, IL 60126

(630) 478-3909

Vegetarian/ice cream parlor. Brain Freeze Ice Cream Shop offers vegan soy ice cream! They also feature Italian Ice and specialty beverages. Brain Freeze is located in the heart of downtown Elmhurst. Cash only. Open daily. Limited service, vegan options, take-out, soymilk, $.

Evanston

§Blind Faith Café

525 Dempster St., Evanston, IL 60201

(847) 328-6875

International. The Chicago area is fortunate to benefit from this fantastic restaurant. Service is excellent, and the food is always delicious. Vegans can enjoy several seitan dishes, including a terrific barbecue sandwich, noodle-based dishes with tofu, plus much more. Be sure to sample their vegan chocolate cake! Please note that the cheeses in the Pasta Rapini dish contain animal rennet. Open daily for three meals. Full service, vegan options, take-out, catering, fresh juices, soymilk, smoothies, wine/beer, VISA/MC/AMEX, $$.

Dave's Italian Kitchen

1635 Chicago Ave., Evanston, IL 60201

(847) 864-6000

Italian. Dave's serves homemade pasta and bread, salad, sandwiches, pizza, calzones, and Italian specialties. Open daily. Full service, vegan options, wine/beer, take-out, no credit cards, VISA/MC, $-$$.

La Grange

Kama Indian Bistro

8 W. Burlington Ave., La Grange, IL 60525

(708) 352-3300

Indian. Kama Indian Bistro has over 25 vegetarian and vegan items. From appetizers and soups to breads and entrées, vegan dishes include Eggplant Bharta, Okra do Piazza, and Yellow Dal. The menu notes what is vegetarian, vegan, or can be made vegan. They also offer 50 gluten-free items. Open Tuesday through Thursday for dinner. Open Friday through Sunday for lunch and dinner. Closed Monday. Full service, vegan options, take-out, catering, fresh juices, wine/beer/alcohol, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $-$$.

Lockport

··Thanks Jordan Vegan Café

928 S. State St., Lockport, IL 60441

(815) 557-9868

Vegan/raw foods. Thanks Jordan Vegan Café is completely run by volunteers. All proceeds go to Hope Children's Hospital in Oak Lawn to benefit children with life-threatening illnesses. Enjoy raw food items including soups, salads, and wraps at the Vegan Café. Live music is featured on Fridays and Saturdays. Open Tuesday through Saturday for lunch and dinner. Closed Sunday and Monday. Full service, take-out, fresh juices, smoothies, VISA/MC, $$.

Machesney Park

··Pig Minds Brewing

4080 Steele Dr., Machesney Park, IL 61115

(779) 423-2147

Vegan/American/brew pub. Pig Minds Brewing is a microbrewery with all-vegan food! Try the Memphis Hound Dog (non-meat hot dog), Buffalo Wrap (made with soy chicken), The Pig Mind (black bean burger), or Seitanic "Wings." Don't miss the chocolate brownies made with their own Pig Minds Stout Beer! The brewery has a taproom featuring select house brews on tap. Open Monday through Thursday for late lunch and dinner. Open Friday and Saturday for lunch and dinner through late night service. Open Sunday for lunch and dinner. Full service, beer/wine, VISA/MC, $-$$.

Moline

Le Mekong Restaurant

1606 Fifth Ave., Moline, IL 61265

(309) 797-3709

Asian. Traditional curry dishes, tofu, and mock meats are featured in the vegetarian menu section. Open daily. Full service, vegan options, wine/beer/alcohol, take-out, VISA/MC/AMEX, $$.

Normal

·Coffee World Coffeehouse

114 E. Beaufort St., Normal, IL 61761

(309) 452-6774

Vegetarian. Everyone in the community enjoys this coffeehouse, known as "a meeting place off the Illinois State University campus." Enjoy one of the many coffee blends and a creative vegetarian meal of charbroiled tofu, falafel pita, or one of the many other vegetarian dishes on the menu. Open daily for three meals. Limited service, vegan options, espresso/cappuccino, VISA/MC, $.

Oak Brook

Reza's Restaurant

40 N. Tower Rd., Oak Brook, IL 60523

(630) 424-9900

Persian. See description under Chicago, IL.

Oak Park

Khyber Pass

1031 Lake St., Oak Park, IL 60301

(708) 445-9032

Indian. Enjoy classical Indian music as you dine on a wide variety of dishes, including spicy vegetable dishes, garbanzo beans and potatoes, vegetable rice dishes, and more. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, take-out, wine/beer, VISA/MC/AMEX, $$.

·Munch

104 N. Marion St., Oak Park, IL 60301

(708) 848-4226

Vegetarian/American. Located in downtown Oak Park, Munch is a vegetarian café specializing in grab-n-go food. There are many vegan and gluten-free items. Try the Vegetable Lasagna or Coconut Yams. Outdoor seating is available. Open Tuesday through Sunday for lunch and dinner. Closed Monday. Limited service, vegan options, take-out, BYOB, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $.

Peoria

(For restaurant listings in the surrounding areas, see Peoria Heights.)

·One World Coffee and Cargo

1245 W. Main St., Peoria, IL 61606

(309) 672-1522

Vegetarian/coffeehouse. This restaurant's eclectic menu has vegetarian dishes marked with the symbol of the one Earth and vegan dishes with two. Enjoy music from a live band, poetry, or theater--depending on when you're there--and be sure to check out the international gift shop. Open daily for three meals. Full service, vegan options, espresso/cappuccino, take-out, VISA/MC/DISC/DC,

Peoria Heights

Cyd's Sendsationals

4607 N. Prospect Rd., Peoria Heights, IL 61614

(309) 685-1100

Take-out only. A quick stop and you can enjoy gourmet vegetarian meals including veggie sandwiches and veggie lasagna. Open Monday through Saturday for lunch and dinner. Closed Sunday. Take-out,

Phoenix

··Unity Café

15417 S. Vincennes Rd., Phoenix, IL 60426

(708) 439-9951

Vegan/raw foods/café/juice bar. Unity Café features vegan raw foods along with specialty beverages at their juice and smoothie bar. They also offer cooking classes, vegan diet coaching, specialized meal plans, and catering. Unity is near the neighborhood of Harvey. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Limited service, take-out, catering, fresh juices, smoothies, VISA/MC, $-$$.

Princeton

Jaya Juice Bar

509 S. Main St., Princeton, IL 61356

(815) 875-1751

Juice bar. Experience the goodness of fruit in wild combinations, the tastiness of vegetables blended as one, as well as a few delicious vegetarian sandwiches and wraps. Open Monday through Saturday for lunch. Closed Sunday. Limited service, vegan options, $.

Rockford

Mary's Market

4431 E. State St., Rockford, IL 61108

(815) 397-7291

2636 McFarland Rd., Rockford, IL 61108

(815) 986-3300

1659 N. Alpine St., Rockford, IL 61107

(815) 394-0765

American. Enjoy several vegetarian dishes at this café, including raisin/walnut French toast for breakfast and salads, roasted vegetable focaccia, veggie burgers, grilled vegetables, pasta dishes, roasted portobello mushrooms, and more. Open daily for three meals. Full service, vegan options, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $-$$.

Schaumburg

·Udupi Palace

730 E. Schaumburg Rd., Schaumburg, IL 60194

(847) 884-9510

Vegetarian/Indian. See description under Chicago, IL.

Skokie

Slice of Life

4120 W. Dempster St., Skokie, IL 60076

(847) 674-2021

Kosher dairy. Slice of Life is a dairy kosher restaurant that serves Italian, Mexican, and vegetarian foods. An eclectic menu lists a wide variety of appetizers, salads, soups, pasta, sandwiches, and vegetarian entrées. A children's section is on the menu. Slice of Life is located between Kedvale and Karlov Avenues. Reservations are recommended. Open Sunday through Thursday for lunch and dinner. Open Friday for lunch. Open Saturday for dinner. Full service, take-out, delivery, catering, espresso/cappuccino, beer/wine/alcohol, non-alcoholic beer, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $$.

Springfield

Holy Land Diner

518 E. Adams St., Springfield, IL 62701

(217) 544-5786

Middle Eastern. Enjoy Greek and Lebanese food as you listen to Lebanese music. Try spinach pies, stuffed grape leaves, Middle Eastern salads, hummus, baba ghanouj, falafel, vegetarian shish kebabs, and more. Open Monday through Saturday for lunch and dinner. Closed Sunday. Full service, vegan options, catering, take-out, fresh juices, non-alcoholic wine/beer, VISA/MC, $$.

Thompsonville

·Earth's Harvest

3710 Main St., Thompsonville, IL 62890

(618) 627-4333

Vegetarian. This restaurant serves an all-you-can-eat buffet for lunch. It is 99% vegan. The servers can tell you which items may contain egg whites. This is country-styled dining at its finest with antique displays in the windows and a health foods store connected to the restaurant. Reservations are requested if group includes more than 5 people. Open Monday through Thursday for lunch only. Closed Friday through Sunday. Full service, vegan options, take-out, fresh juices, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $$.

Urbana

Strawberry Fields

306 W. Springfield, Urbana, IL 61801

(217) 328-1655

Natural foods store. This natural foods store has a café, deli, bakery, and an in-house nutritionist. You can easily make a meal out of their vegetarian chili, soup, salad, sandwich, calzone, pizza, quiche, and other choices. Open Monday through Saturday for three meals. Open Sunday for lunch through early dinner. Limited service, vegan options, smoothies, soymilk, espresso/cappuccino, special drinks, take-out, catering, VISA/MC, $$.

·The Red Herring

1209 W. Oregon St., Urbana, IL 61801

(217) 367-2340

Vegetarian/café/eclectic. The Red Herring is a vegetarian restaurant and coffeehouse located in the basement of a building on the campus of the University of Illinois. They are a part of the Channing Murray Foundation, a non-profit organization. All foods are made from scratch, and organic ingredients are used when possible. The menu features international dishes and homemade baked goods. They serve their own fair trade, organic coffee and have Wi-Fi. Come and volunteer for an hour for a free meal. They sometimes have extended hours when the University is in session so call ahead. Cash only. Open Monday through Friday for lunch. Closed Saturday and Sunday. Buffet, vegan options, take-out, espresso/cappuccino, $.

Westmont

·Apple Valley Natural Foods

806 E. Ogden Ave., Westmont, IL 60559

(630) 789-2270

Vegetarian/natural foods store. Apple Valley Natural Foods is a completely vegetarian natural foods store. Enjoy their hot food bar, deli, and salad bar. They are located in St. James Crossing Plaza. Open Sunday for lunch and early dinner. Open Monday through Thursday for lunch and dinner. Open Friday for lunch and early dinner. Closed Saturday. Cafeteria, vegan options, take-out, VISA/MC, $.

·Shree Vegetarian Restaurant

655 N. Cass Ave., Westmont, IL 60559

(630) 655-1021

Vegetarian/Indian. A varied and extensive menu of well-prepared Indian foods is served in a friendly atmosphere. Incense and Indian music enhance the dining experience. Open Thursday through Sunday. Reservations required Friday through Sunday. Full service, fresh juices, BYOB, take-out, AMEX, $.

Woodstock

·Expressly Leslie

110 S. Johnson St., Woodstock, IL 60098

(815) 338-2833

Vegetarian/Mediterranean. Expressly Leslie serves vegetarian food with a Mediterranean flair. Enjoy falafel, pita pocket sandwiches, hummus, salads, soups, and sampler plates. Many items are vegan and are noted as such on the menu. Prices are great and daily specials are offered as well. Open Tuesday through Saturday for lunch. Closed Sunday and Monday. Limited service, vegan options, take-out, catering, smoothies, VISA/MC, $-$$.