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

North Carolina

Apex Asheville Belmont Black Mountain Cary Chapel Hill Charlotte Cornelius Durham Fayetteville Gastonia Greensboro Hendersonville Kitty Hawk Marshall Morrisville Nags Head Raleigh Sylva Wake Forest Wilmington Winston-Salem

Apex

··The Dirty V

1001 Davis Dr., Apex, NC 27523

Vegan. One of their featured items is called the Basic Betty Burg. This is a 4 oz. hand patty with pickles, ito, and dirty v sauce. One of their breakfast items is called the Dirty griddle, this is Impossible sausage, vegan egg, and vegan cheese, served on a pancake bun! One special dinner is called the Delta Voyage: 90s Nostalgia Prix Fixe Dinner.

··Vegan Community Kitchen

803 E Williams St., Apex, NC 27502

(919) 372-5027

Vegan/Mediterranean. Mediterranean restaurants often have several vegan options, but at Vegan Community Kitchen you have the whole menu to choose from! Yes, there is falafel, hummus, and stuffed grape leaves, but if you want to venture out you can also try their vegan burgers, kebabs, and yeeros (gyros). The gluten-free options are marked.

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Asheville

(For restaurant listings in the surrounding areas, see Black Mountain and Hendersonville.)

·Dobra Tea

78 N. Lexington Ave., Asheville, NC 28801

(828) 575-2424

Vegetarian/teahouse. Dobra Tea is an authentic tea room serving a wide range of specialty teas from various countries. They also offer a light fare menu with locally made hummus, pita bread, and vegan desserts like coconut matcha shortbread cookies. The tea room is made complete by the peaceful atmosphere and the bohemian décor.

·Firestorm Café & Books

A-610 Haywood Rd., Asheville, NC 28806

(828) 255-8115

Vegetarian/natural foods/organic. Firestorm Café & Books is a worker-owned and self-managed community event space located in downtown Asheville. The café is 99.9% vegan; the only exception is dairy milk as an option for coffee. Try the Tempeh Gyro, TLT (Tempeh, Lettuce & Tomato), Maple BBQ Panini (maple-baked tofu), or the Soup of the Day. Desserts such as their "World-Conquering Cupcakes" are baked on-site. Firestorm strives to maximize their use of local, organic, and fair trade ingredients. Stop by for a bite to eat, a cup of Joe, and browse their unique book selection.

·Laughing Seed Café

40 Wall St., Asheville, NC 28801

(828) 252-3445

Vegetarian/international. Enjoy a wide variety of international vegetarian dishes, including a Carribean Quesadilla, Mid-Eastern Pita Sandwich, Greek Salad, Kung Pao Tofu, tempeh fajitas, and more. Indoor and outdoor seating available.

··Plant

165 Merrimon Ave., Asheville, NC 28801

(828) 258-7500

Vegan/natural foods/organic. Plant offers innovative vegan cuisine that is organic, local, and seasonal. Enjoy such dishes as Peppercorn Crusted Seitan, Smoked Portobello Steak, or Grilled Chili Glazed Tofu. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends. Plant is closed on weekends between brunch and dinner, so please call ahead for hours.

··Pulp + Sprout

233 South Liberty St., Asheville, NC 28801

(828) 713-7513

Vegan/organic/raw foods. A vegan juice bar and café with a large selection of different juices, smoothies, sandwiches, and more. Menu items include Avo Toasty, Up-Beet Sandwich, Kitchari, Mushroom Banh Mi, soup of the day, and desserts.

··Rosetta's Kitchen

116 N. Lexington Ave., Asheville, NC 28801

(828) 232-0738

Vegan/soul food. Rosetta's Kitchen has a wholesome atmosphere that is the perfect setting for its homestyle cooking. More than just a restaurant, Rosetta's has become a local gathering spot, with friendly staff, local art, downtown bicycle deliveries, and dedicated, environmentally conscious policies. Enjoy dishes such as Nacho Platter, Cornbread and Greens, Buddha Bowl, Coconut Curry Plate, Tempeh Reuben, Hearty Chili, and so much more.

··The Smokin’ Onion

697 Haywood Rd. E., Asheville, NC 28806

Vegan. the Smokin’ Onion is THE plant-based restaurant and food truck for comforting meals all foodies will enjoy. As a vegan of 14+ years, animal rights and social justice activities, co-owner Keems wanted to have a food truck that combined her love for comfort food with plant-based cuisine. Smokin’ Onion' offers a plethora of plant-based meals, including a vegan Gyro made with homemade tzatziki, burger, “butter-milk chicken” sandwich, nachos smothered in homemade cashew queso, and gooey vegan chocolate cookies, chocolate peanut butter bars, and so much more.

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Belmont

·I Love Juice Bar

6425 Wilkinson Blvd., Ste. H, Belmont, NC 28012

Vegetarian/juice bar. Enjoy a awide range of fresh juices and smoothies along with dishes such as Nori Bowl, Pad Thai Noodles, Hummus with Veggies, and Kale Quinoa Salad.

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Black Mountain

··Dough House Vegan Donuts

601 W. State St., Ste. 3, Black Mountain, NC 28711

Vegan/donuts. Serving sweet new vegan treats, the owners of The Trashy Vegan Food Truck in West Asheville have opened The Dough House offering chocolate, strawberry and glazed donuts plus a daily special. Coffee and lattes are also available.

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Cary

·Mithai Indian Café

744-F Chatham St., Cary, NC 27511

(919) 469-9651

Vegetarian/Indian. Their sweets are different from other brands because they are made according to age-old artisanal standards and are not commercialized like grocery store or frozen brands. All of their products contain none of the following: preservatives, chemicals, artificial colors, eggs, fillers, emulsifiers, high fructose corn syrup, Tran’s fatty acids, or ghee. The sweets are sweetened with plant-based sugars. They also serve Indian dishes including vegetable pakoras, samosas, and curries.

Once in a Blue Moon Bakery & Café

Ashworth Village, 115-G W. Chatham St., Cary, NC 27511

(919) 319-6554

Café/bakery. Once in a Blue Moon features many vegetarian and vegan lunch options. Some to try include a spicy black bean burger, a grilled portabella mushroom sandwich, and even a vegetarian hot dog! Also a bakery, Blue Moon offers delicious cakes and pastries. They can make a vegan wedding cake, too.

··Pure Vegan Café

716 Slash Pine Dr., Cary, NC 27519

919-234-1572

Vegan/café/juice bar. Inspired by both a loved one’s illness and Ayurvedic principles, the café’s founder aims to bring healthy (and tasty) options to her community. Although probably best known for its fresh juices and acai bowls, Pure Vegan Café offers something for everyone. Both locations offer the extensive menu, complete with breakfast items such as gluten-free waffles and avocado toast; burgers and fries; chick’n sandwiches; and, of course, juices, shots & elixirs, smoothies, and acai bowls. There is even a kids’ menu. Whether you keep coming back for your favorite item or you want to sample all the offerings over time, Pure Vegan Café will likely become a regular stop on your restaurant rotation.

·Udupi Café

590 E. Chatham St., Cary, NC 27511

(919) 465-0898

Vegetarian/Indian. Udupi Café serves appetizers, soups, Dosai, curries, breads, and much more on its large lunch buffet and for dinner. Unique dishes include Shredded Coconut Uthappam and Chana Batura. Within walking distance of the Madstone Theatre, Udupi Café serves genuine Indian food at very reasonable prices. While you are dining, enjoy the abstract art on display. They are closed between lunch and dinner so please call ahead for hours.

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Chapel Hill

·Coco Bean Coffee Shop

1114 Environ Way, Chapel Hill, NC 27517

(919) 883-9003

Vegetarian/café/bakery. Independently owned and serving 100 percent recyclable products along with local ingredients, Coco Bean Coffee Shop serves specialty coffee drinks and a variety of baked goods. Vegans can swap out dairy milk for non-dairy milk at no extra charge. Coco Bean also offers non-dairy whip cream and creamers. Try the cashew milk mocha, a customer favorite! Coco Bean sells vegan and gluten-free cupcakes, muffins, and other pastries. Coffee grounds are composted, and there’s always extra to take home to your garden!

Margaret's Cantina

1129 Weaver Dairy Rd., Chapel Hill, NC 27514

(919) 942-4745

Southwestern. Margaret's veggie options include Very Vegetarian Nachos, hummus, vegetarian black bean chili, and a tempeh pita sandwich.

··Vegan Flava Café

Blue Dogwood Market, 306 W Franklin St., Ste. G, Chapel Hill, NC 27516

(919) 960-1832

Vegan/café. Dine on a Carrot "Tuna" Wrap, Collard Green Veggie Wrap, Vegan Potato Salad, Coconut Rice, Curry Lentils or Chickpeas, and more. Also enjoy a wide variety of smoothies. This café focuses on organic food.

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Charlotte

··Bean Vegan Cuisine

3001 E. Independence Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28205

(980) 939-1234

Vegan/American. Bean Vegan Cuisine is an excellent place to go for vegan comfort food. Don't miss delicious sandwiches like their BBQ Jackfruit, Reuben, and Crabbie Patty. Ask about their daily specials and dessert selection. For classic American favorites made vegan, Bean can't be beat!

Berrybrook Farm Natural Foods

1257 East Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28203

(704) 334-6528

Natural foods. Homemade soups, salads, and sandwiches are made fresh daily at this natural food grocery and deli. The menu at Berrybrook changes daily and is primarily vegetarian.

··Cinnaholic

6461 Old Monroe Rd., Ste. F, Charlotte, NC 28079

(704) 684-7031

Vegan/bakery. Cinnaholic offers over 30 flavors of gourmet cinnamon rolls -- and they are all vegan! Some include Almond, Blackberry, Butterscotch, Caramel, Cream Soda, Key Lime, Root Beer, & Pomegranate. Toppings range from Cookie Dough Chunks to Shredded Coconut and everything in between. They offer other sweet treats including cookies, brownies, muffins, specialty pie rolls, and baby buns (mini cinnamon rolls). If your sweet tooth has still not been sated, have a Frosting Shot!

··Dee's Vegan To Go

1540 West Blvd., Ste. 100, Charlotte, NC 28208

(980) 430-3856

Vegan. Dee’s Vegan To Go restaurant is a family restaurant that strives to serve sustainable meals to all families. They work hand in hand with local farmers in North Carolina. They first opened back in 2016 at the Charlotte’s Regional Farmers Market. They even work with artisans to help them run their bakery and café, completely served with vegan ingredients. When it comes to what they have on their menu, you can slurp up their homemade lemonade drinks or gorge on their sweet potato spice cake desserts! For entrees they provide jambalaya, teriyaki “chicken,” and mac and cheese. They also make an array of soups and sandwiches.

··Exposed Vegan

City West Commons, 1540 West Blvd., Ste. 112, Charlotte, NC 28208

Vegan. Their menu includes a large variety of juices and smoothies; soups and bowls; and for desert, Chocolate Chip Cookies. The owners have chosen a location in the food desert of the West Boulevard corridor of Charlotte in order to give back to the community by providing healthy vegan food.

··Fern

1419 East Blvd., Ste. A, Charlotte, NC 28203

(704) 377-1825

Vegan café. Fern features cauliflower wings, mac n cheese, BBQ sandwich, burrito, salads, soups, falafel, and much more.

·Ma Ma Wok

11914 Elm Ln., Ste. 100, Charlotte, NC 28277

(704) 544-8863

Vegetarian/Chinese. The menu offers many dishes including spring rolls, seaweed salad, curry stew, and even a vegan steak with broccoli that is served with a brown sauce. Vegan items are indicated clearly on the menu. Ma Ma Wok serves freshly made Thai iced tea, pots of tea, juices, and sodas. This restaurant is very family friendly, and has an extremely cozy atmosphere.

··Oh My Soul Café

3046 N. Davidson St., Charlotte, NC 28205

(704) 891-4664

Vegan café. Oh My Soul Café has roots in South Africa. Stop by to see Oh My Soul Café’s unique, creative aesthetic and taste some of their burgers and ‘fully loaded sweet potatoes’, as well as waffles for brunch.

··Romeo's Vegan Burgers

5518 South Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28217

704-343-1085

Vegan/Burger Joint. Located in SW Charlotte near the 21/77, this all-vegan take on a classic drive-through burger joint offers fries, lemonades, milkshakes, and Beyond and Impossible burgers with Follow Your Heart cheese and homemade sauces, which they boast are good enough to win converts from meat-eating. Eat in the bright, classic diner style interior or take your food to go. They also have a food truck which will continue to travel around Charlotte: follow them on social media @romeosveganburgers to see where it will be next.

··Sanctuary Bistro

6414 Rea Rd. Ste. C2, Charlotte, NC 28277

(980) 335-0908

Vegan/bistro. Sanctuary Bistro’s menu is nothing short of inventive. This family-owned restaurant offers dishes such as beet salad, artichoke dip, garlicky greens, lasagna, jambalaya, black lentil Shepard's pie, Kansas BBQ tofu, tiramisu, cheesecake, and much more.

··Sun Burger Vegan Cuisine

Varies, Charlotte, NC 28227

Vegan/food truck. Sun Burger Vegan Cuisine, a unique food truck in the Charlotte area, is serving up incredible vegan food to the community. Besides their famous burgers, try out their others African & Caribbean fusion meals, such as the Sweet & Sour Chick’n, Portobello Pepper Steak and Yellow Split Pea Dahl. For a drink, grab a Sun Elixir, which is hibiscus tea with cloves, pimento, ginger, and agave. Their use of fresh and healthy ingredients shows, as one of their customers said, “it’s so refreshing to see true food cooking from Mother Nature”. Their motto, Eat Well Live Well, embodies their delicious offerings which are sure to have you coming back for more!

Thai Taste

324 East Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28203

(704) 332-0001

Thai. You can choose to have many dishes on Thai Taste's menu, such as curries, stir-fries, and noodle dishes, made vegetarian, with or without eggs. Try the Pud Met Ma Muang (cashew nut) or the Khing Sod (fresh ginger) stir-fry, the Thai Salad with vegetables and fried tofu, or one of several vegetarian appetizers.

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Cornelius

·Nékter Juice Bar

19116 W. Catawba Ave., Cornelius, NC 28031

(704) 395-5580

Vegetarian/juice bar. egan, except for a few items made with bee products. Nékter Juice Bar offers delicious, healthy items to start your day—or anytime! Juices, smoothies, and açaí bowls abound. Try the Açaí Banana Berry Bowl with housemade cashew milk and hempseed granola, or a Pink Flamingo with dragon fruit, strawberry, pineapple, agave nectar, and coconut water blended into a heavenly smoothie. Wake up with a cold-brewed coffee Chai Latte blend or a Grapefruit Reboot juice—a fusion of grapefruit, orange, and apple juices with fennel. Select locations also offer a cashew-milk-based frozen dessert, dubbed the Skoop.

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Durham

··Banu Vegan

2534 S. Roxboro St., Durham, NC 27707

984-219-6505

Vegan. This restaurant uses fresh ingredients sourced from local farmers’ markets. Thursday special includes “Spanish chikn/Spanish mushrooms with black beans, rainbow rice, avocado, kale salad, and pineapple cake.” Menu also includes burgers and burritos (served with chips and Sofrito salsa), sandwiches and subs (e.g., “Skrimp Po Boy,” which is vegan shrimp made of tapioca starch, seasoned with onions, peppers, lettuce, tomato, and topped with house Cajun sauce), also served with chips and salsa. Additionally, you’ll find appetizers, salads, desserts, as well as a separate Sunday Brunch Menu.

Blue Corn Café

716 9th St., Durham, NC 27705

(919) 286-9600

Latin American. Blue Corn Café features Latin American fare. They offer several vegetarian selections; many can be made vegan upon request. Make sure to try the Black Bean and Sweet Potato Stew, their famous vegan stew. Blue Corn has live music and a full bar. Enjoy the warm, colorful décor featuring art from local artists. The restaurant is near Duke University. Outdoor seating is available.

·Pomegranate Kitchen

5504 Durham Chapel Hill Blvd., Ste. 102, Durham, NC 27707

(919) 886-0356

Vegetarian/Persian. Pomegranate Kitchen has outdoor seating so you can enjoy your meal in the fresh air when the weather is good. They use natural, local, and seasonal ingredients so call ahead to see what's on their menu for that day. Choose from dishes like fresh herb patties, pomegranate and walnut stew, or Persian noodle soup. Meal portions are large and include freshly baked bread and a piece of chocolate. Cash only.

··Pure Vegan Café

2812 Erwin Rd. #104, Durham, NC 27705

919-251-9694

Vegan/café/juice bar. Inspired by both a loved one’s illness and Ayurvedic principles, the café’s founder aims to bring healthy (and tasty) options to her community. Although probably best known for its fresh juices and acai bowls, Pure Vegan Café offers something for everyone. An extensive menu is offered, complete with breakfast items such as gluten-free waffles and avocado toast; burgers and fries; chick’n sandwiches; and, of course, juices, shots & elixirs, smoothies, and acai bowls. There is even a kids’ menu. Whether you keep coming back for your favorite item or you want to sample all the offerings over time, Pure Vegan Café will likely become a regular stop on your restaurant rotation.

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Fayetteville

··The Vegan Spot

407 Hope Mills Rd., Fayetteville, NC 28304

910-500-3027

Vegan. Happy to be “cruelty-free,” The Vegan Spot also celebrates the vegan diet. One of their Pizza choices, Surf N' Turf boasts a 12-inch buttery vegan crust covered in creamy vegan smoked gouda, soy-free plant based shrimp, organic spinach, organic Portobello mushrooms, red onions, and dairy-free mozzarella. Their Vegan Chicken Lo' Mein features stir fried plant-based chicken, carrots, mushrooms, broccoli, and onions, along with Veggie Spring Rolls. Who’s your Hero? Theirs is an Italian plant-based Meatball Hoagie with marinara sauce and a dairy-free Italian cheese blend. One of their Burger options is the char-grilled Everything Bagel Burger made from pea protein, crowned with vegan, smoked gouda, grilled onions, organic Portobello mushrooms and their secret zesty pow sauce served on a buttery everything bagel. If you need some powerful greens, how about a Side of Greenades? These Brussel Sprouts are seasoned and sautéed in vegan butter to a tender-crisp texture with onions and green and red peppers. Feeling the Fries? Besides Regular, there are Philly Fries, Cajun Fries and Sweet Potato Fries. They offer plant-based Philly Cheesesteaks, Chicken Tenderz and Wings with a variety of sauce choices too. One Dessert possibility is their Vegan Brookie—a soft, chewy Brownie Cookie hybrid.

··Vibe Gastropub

131 Hay St., Ste. 101, Fayetteville, NC 28301

910-491-8259

Vegan. Modern with a comics newspaper atmosphere. Meals served on food-safe newspaper. Examples of menu: Lentil tacos with homemade juice of the day. Also waffles and avocado toast.

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Gastonia

··Soul Miner's Garden

3204 Union Rd., Gastonia, NC 28056

Vegan/food truck. Try the variety of nachos and fries as starters. Entrees include green bowls, BBQ sliders, Philly basket, or vegan crunch wrap supreme. Sides offered include collards, pintos & onions, potato salad, and rosemary garlic fries. Indoor seating available.

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Greensboro

(For restaurant listings in the surrounding areas, see Winston-Salem.)

·Boba House

332 Tate St, Greensboro, NC 27403

(336) 379-7444

Vegetarian/Asian. An all-vegetarian restaurant and teahouse, Boba House offers a wide variety of fake meat dishes including Hawaiian Chicken, Sauteéd Cuttlefish, Calamari Salad, Chef's Tuna, and Black Pepper Steak. They also offer soups, salads, a children's menu, and vegan desserts. All menu options are clearly marked as "can be made vegan".

·Indu Convenient Store Restaurant

49925 Market St., Ste. 1104, Greensboro, NC 27407

(336) 456-4178

Vegetarian/Indian. The Indu Convenient store hides a vegetarian restaurant which many do not know about. This little restaurant serves authentic food, made with natural ingredients. You could consider this restaurant a “hole-in-the-wall,” which we all know are the best. The Indu restaurant loves to cook with great spices, which gives their food a unique flavor that many other restaurants cannot achieve. Among the local favorites is the Punjabi Thali sampler platter. This platter offers a variety of different dishes all in one sampler platter, which is great for those who have never tried Indian food. If you want a light snack, order the chana chaat. This chickpea-based dish is made with cilantro, lime, tomato, onion and is incredibly bright, providing a refreshing burst of flavor that would also make for an appropriate appetizer.

··Mike's Vegan Grill

2501 W. Gate City Blvd., Greensboro, NC 27403

704-837-5535

Vegan/American. Mike’s Vegan Grill features a regional take on classic comfort foods like sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, and loaded fries. They do offer combos; try the BBQ Sandwich, the Carolina Burger, the Philly Cheesesteak, or the Carolina Hot Dog with one of their many french fry options. The BBQ Sandwich was bold and delicious, with a unique texture, while the Philly was made from Beyond Beef and was accompanied with peppers and onions, seasoned, and served on a soft bun. The Carolina Dog was flavorful and included coleslaw, while the Fiesta Fries were loaded with chili, tomatoes, onions, and a delicious spicy mayo. The restaurant interior is vibrant with interesting slogans about veganism and animal welfare posted on the walls. Please note that the location is wheelchair accessible and has some outdoor picnic benches available for dining.

··Romeo's Vegan Burgers

413 S. Tate St., Greensboro, NC 27403

Vegan/Burger Joint. This all-vegan take on a classic drive-through burger joint offers fries, lemonades, milkshakes, and Beyond and Impossible burgers with Follow Your Heart cheese and homemade sauces, which they boast are good enough to win converts from meat-eating. Eat in the bright, classic diner style interior or take your food to go.

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Hendersonville

··Oklawaha Brewing Company

147 First Ave. East, Hendersonville, NC 28792

(828) 595-9956

Vegan/bar. Oklawaha Brewing Company serves brews, appetizers, pizza, pasta, and sandwiches. Notable menu items include a local apple and roasted beet salad, vegan pizza, a BBQ tempeh sandwich, and tacos on Tuesdays. Oklawaha Brewing Company is so much more than your average brewery or vegan restaurant because it goes beyond great food and brews to encompass animal rights philosophy and advocacy. They are an active part of the community that promotes animal welfare by partnering with organizations and provides cruelty free foods from local producers. The owners encourage their customers to adopt pets rather than breed them, become vegetarian or vegan, and to donate to and volunteer at local animal shelters.

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Kitty Hawk

Bad Bean Baja Grill

4146 N Croatan Hwy, Kitty Hawk, NC 27949

(252) 261-1300

Mexican. Located on the Outer Banks, this estasblishment offers veggie options such as salads, veggie tacos, black bean quinoa burger, burrito with tofu, and more. Outdoor seating available.

Outer Bean Juice & Java

3701 N. Croatan Hwy., Kitty Hawk, NC 27949

(252) 261-6000

Juice bar/café. There are separate menus for breakfast and lunch/dinner. The Green Granola Bowl and the Vegan Turkish Breakfast are two of many popular menu items available for breakfast. Enjoy the Fresh Fruit Basil Salad or the Vegan Pesto Panini for lunch. Don’t forget to pair your food with a juice!

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Marshall

·Grateful Organic Diner

38 Bailey’S Branch Rd., Marshall, NC 28753

828-649-8194

Vegetarian. Overlooks the French Broad River. They serve dishes like the “hummus plate” that has hummus with naan bread and sliced veggies. Also they offer a “house veggie burger” with lettuce, tomato, onions, and pickle, on top of a housemade veggie pattie.

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Morrisville

Inchin's Bamboo Garden

3532 Davis Dr., Morrisville, NC 27560

(919) 467-6705

Asian. Inchin’s Bamboo Garden fulfills your desire for a wide array of seamlessly blended popular Asian street-food dishes. The restaurant is dimmed with a relaxing and ambient atmosphere, and explores its fusion further with a delightful blend of Indian and Chinese decor. For starters, try out the spring rolls or crispy chilli baby corn. If you are looking for a savory dish, try out the vegan Manchurian coin dumplings, hakka noodles, or Schezwan fried rice. You are also welcome to a bar and outdoor seating.

Neomonde Bakery & Deli

10235 Chapel Hill Rd., Morrisville, NC 27560

(919) 469-8009

Middle Eastern. Neomonde serves Middle Eastern and American cuisine, including stuffed grape leaves, tabbouleh, spinach pie, chickpea salad, hummus, and baba ghanouj.

·Tower Indian Restaurant

144 Morrisville Square Way, Morrisville, NC 27560

(919) 465-2326

Vegetarian/Indian. The menu at Tower Indian Restaurant includes samosas, pakoras, puri, vadai, dosais, utthappams, masala dosas, curries, rice dishes, and more! Lunch is a buffet, while dinner is served á la carte. Tower is located near the Morrisville Fire Station and is on the same road that serves the airport (you can literally be parked in front of check-in in about 5 minutes from leaving the restaurant).

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Nags Head

Surfin' Spoon

3408 S. Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC 27959

(252) 441-7873

Ice cream parlor. Enjoy sorbet and vegan ice cream sandwiches that are also gluten-free. They are located steps from the beach. Outdoor seating available.

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Raleigh

(For restaurant listings in the surrounding areas, see Cary, Chapel Hill, Durham, and Morrisville.)

··Cinnaholic

1028 Oberlin Rd., Ste. 236, Raleigh, NC 27605

919-322-0132

Vegan/bakery. Cinnaholic offers over 30 flavors of gourmet cinnamon rolls -- and they are all vegan! Some include Almond, Blackberry, Butterscotch, Caramel, Cream Soda, Key Lime, Root Beer, & Pomegranate. Toppings range from Cookie Dough Chunks to Shredded Coconut and everything in between. They offer other sweet treats including cookies.

··Cinnaholic

7851 Alexander Prom Pl., Ste. 120, Raleigh, NC 27617

919-797-0001

Vegan/bakery. Cinnaholic offers over 30 flavors of gourmet cinnamon rolls -- and they are all vegan! Some include Almond, Blackberry, Butterscotch, Caramel, Cream Soda, Key Lime, Root Beer, & Pomegranate. Toppings range from Cookie Dough Chunks to Shredded Coconut and everything in between. They offer other sweet treats including cookies, brownies, muffins, specialty pie rolls, and baby buns (mini cinnamon rolls). If your sweet tooth has still not been sated, have a Frosting Shot!

··Earth To US

2893 Jones Franklin Rd., Raleigh, NC 27606

Vegan. The owners of Earth To Us were inspired to go vegan by their daughter, and now they are sharing their family's passion for healthy, delicious vegan food with you! Entrees include Latin flavors like the Plato Principal, featuring seasoned black beans and fried plantains. Or you could try something more traditionally American, such as the Mac and Cheese Plate with BBQ chickn and coleslaw. Whether you're looking for something South American, or simply Southern, Earth To Us should satisfy you!

··Element Gastropub

421 Fayetteville St., Ste. 103, Raleigh, NC 27601

919-703-6538

Vegan. Element Gastropub’s Chef’s Table presents a wide array of specialties such as creamy Spaghetti Alla Carbonara with umaro bacon, poached vegan yo egg, parmesan, and parsley or Brunswick Stew--their take on the slightly spicy southern classic, a medley of tomato, veggies, tangy bbq sauce and umaro bacon, served with house-made roasted jalapeño skillet cornbread. There’s also Chef’s Southern Spice Plate of serrano cowboy candy w/ cream cheese roasted jalapeño & garlic pimiento cheese firecracker saltines, rosemary spiced nuts, pickled okra & celery, crispy Pimiento Cheese Rangoons with house cranberry hot pepper jam sauce, and Mimi's Chik'n Pot Pie served with mirepoix, green peas, potatoes, and carrots in Mimi's family recipe gravy. Sandwich and Burger choices abound from Buffalo Chik’n Sandos and seasonal specials and BLT Burgers to Patty Melts. During brunch time on Sunday besides Sausage Egg N Chz Biscuits and Tofu Scramble, there are Shareables like their buttered, salted Bavarian Pretzel, with house queso & spicy German mustard, plus Salads and Entrées such as Pancakes, or French Toast--double-dipped vegan brioche, powdered sugar, berry drizzle, fresh fruit, whipped crème, and maple syrup, as well as Elemental Chik'n N Waffles--Belgian cornbread waffles, double-dipped fried chik’n, nc mountain apples, crispy rosemary, and hot hunni drizzle. Desserts: Would you turn down Pop’s Peanut Butter Cheesecake which combines cream cheese, coco whip, chocolate crumble, and shortbread crust? How about their handmade Double Fudge Brownie a la mode-ed with oat nyce cream? And let’s not forget Cookies N’ Cream Cake and Gingerbread Cake.

Irregardless Café

901 W. Morgan St., Raleigh, NC 27603

(919) 833-8898

Natural foods/American. The Irregardless Café presents a new menu each day to offer what is freshest and in season. They feature an extensive selection of vegan dishes which are noted on the menu. Some include Tofu Stir Fry, Cauliflower Tower of Power, Vegetable Curry, Portabella Polenta, and Acorn Squash Cassolette. Live music is featured nightly. Irregardless is closed between lunch/brunch and dinner, so please call ahead for hours. Reservations are accepted.

Neomonde Bakery & Deli

3817 Beryl Rd., Raleigh, NC 27607

(919) 828-1628

Middle Eastern. See description under Morrisville, NC.

··Pure Vegan Café

8369 Creedmoor Rd., Raleigh, NC 27613

919-917-7369

Vegan/café/juice bar. Inspired by both a loved one’s illness and Ayurvedic principles, the café’s founder aims to bring healthy (and tasty) options to her community. Although probably best known for its fresh juices and acai bowls, Pure Vegan Café offers something for everyone. Both locations offer the extensive menu, complete with breakfast items such as gluten-free waffles and avocado toast; burgers and fries; chick’n sandwiches; and, of course, juices, shots & elixirs, smoothies, and acai bowls. There is even a kids’ menu. Whether you keep coming back for your favorite item or you want to sample all the offerings over time, Pure Vegan Café will likely become a regular stop on your restaurant rotation.

Raleigh Raw

7 West Hargett St., Raleigh, NC 27601

(919) 400-0994

Café/juice bar. Enjoy cold pressed organic juices, smoothies, granola, a variety of bowls, plus more.

·The Fiction Kitchen

428 S. Dawson St., Raleigh, NC 27601

(919) 831-4177

Vegetarian/natural foods/eclectic. The Fiction Kitchen is a vegetarian restaurant that is mostly vegan. Their location near the farmers markets allows them to have daily specials with fresh produce and local foods. Vegan menu selections include Sweet Potato Sushi Rolls with Sashimi Tofu, BBQ Pulled 'Pork,' and Crispy Fried 'Chicken' and Waffles.

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Sylva

Lulu's on Main

678 W. Main St., Sylva, NC 28779

(828) 586-8989

American. Lulu's on Main offers an informal atmosphere of fresh, local foods. They feature a variety of ethnic foods including dishes for vegetarians and vegans.

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Wake Forest

··Plant Cakes

410 South White St., Wake Forest, NC 27587

(919) 275-3995

Vegan/bakery. Your taste buds will never get bored at this place! There are so many different flavors and types of vegan baked goods, the opportunities are endless. You can get anything from cookies, donuts, cakes/cupcakes, cheesecakes, and pies. Some of their unique flavors consist of lemon blueberry cake, pumpkin cinnamon cakes along with a pumpkin patch cheesecake, mini carrot cupcakes, savory coconut “bacon” doughnuts, and festive churro doughnuts. This is only a small fraction of their diverse menu. Most of their concoctions are completely unique to their bakeshop, making it a very popular place to get vegan wedding cakes.

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Wilmington

Lovey's Natural Foods & Café

1319 Military Cutoff Rd., Ste. H, Wilmington, NC 28405

(910) 509-0331

Natural foods store/café. Lovey's Natural Foods & Café is very veg-friendly. Lunch items include Boca Burgers, Sunshine Burgers, Tofu Melts, and Bean Burritos. They have a salad bar with food sold by the pound and a few choices of soup each day. You can also buy vegetarian and vegan items in the store as well. Lovey's is located in the Landfall Shopping Center.

··Sealevel City Vegan Diner

1015 S. Kerr Ave., Wilmington, NC 28403

(910) 833-7196

Vegan/diner. From their best-selling Chickpea Avocado Lentil Burger to their aquafaba-topped Sweet Potato Pie, Sealevel City Vegan Diner gives Wilmington residents and visitors their vegan American food fix. Located less than a mile from the UNC Wilmington campus, other popular dishes include the Carolina Dog, Kimchi Tempeh Reuben, and Kale Nachos. About half of their produce is local and organic, and all packaging is compostable. Be sure to check out their Facebook and Instagram pages for daily specials like Strawberry Cheesecake Bars and Homemade Vegan Pimento Cheese!

··The Green House

1427 Military Cutoff Rd., Unit 106, Wilmington, NC 28403

910-679-4992

Vegan. Located in East Wilmington, The Green House focuses on reaching the highest standards in both dining experience and environmental sustainability. Everything is environmentally friendly, from the 100% vegan, 100% gluten free (including pastas and breads) menu, to the light, modern, plant-filled décor — right down to the plaster. In an outdoor seating area (which the owners plan to turn into a greenhouse), they grow their own herbs in aeroponic towers, and other ingredients are sourced locally where possible. Enjoy a multi-course meal based on expertly prepared vegetables and clean proteins: a starter such as a mushroom board with marinated mushroom salad, a spreadable mushroom cheese, and oyster mushroom 'bacon’, followed by salads or soups, an entrée such as braised and seasoned eggplant ‘steak’ served with parsnip-potato puree and roasted asparagus, and a dessert such as chocolate cake. And pair this with an offering from the all-vegan natural and biodynamic wine list, or intentionally crafted cocktails, whether alcoholic or ‘Zero Proof Conscious’.

··The Hardcore Hippie

Location Varies, Wilmington, NC

Vegan/food truck. Often found at local breweries and festivals, The Hardcore Hippie takes over the non-vegan NachoFalt’s truck once a week (carefully cleaning and using separate knives etc. to avoid cross-contamination), to serve up, healthy food at affordable prices. Constantly experimenting with their menu, check social media to see their latest creations. Options on a given day might include the likes of hummus and chickpea shawarma wraps; curries; Quinoa salad; or sandwiches with coconut bacon, arugula, tomato and garlic cashew cream.

Tidal Creek Cooperative Food Market

5329 Oleander Dr., Wilmington, NC 28403

(910) 799-2667

Café. The Tidal Creek Cooperative Food Market houses a cafe that is open daily with a variety of options for vegetarians and vegans. The menu features sandwiches like the Bahn Mi and Reuben, which can be made vegan at no extra cost. Also available are several Flat Breads, Burgers, and Juices. They also have a hot food bar and salad bar. Outdoor seating available.

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Winston-Salem

La Botana

1547 Hanes Mall Blvd., Winston-Salem, NC 27103

(366) 768-6588

Mexican. La Botana is family owned and operated. The vegetarian menu is available after 5 pm. Many reviewers enjoy the Portabella Burnt Cheese Quesadillas and the Huitlacoche & Blossom Sopes.

Nawab Indian Cuisine

129 S. Stratford Rd., Winston-Salem, NC 27104

(336) 725-3949

Indian. Nawab features a large selection of vegetarian and vegan appetizers and entrées. Sample vegetable patia (vegetables cooked with sweet and sour mangos and a touch of ginger), palak paneer (spinach with or without Indian cheese), mushroom broccoli krahi (sautéed with vegetables, garlic, and herbs), Bombay potatoes, eggplant bharta (baked, then mashed and sautéed with garlic, onions, and tomatoes), and much more. Children's portions are often available for half the price of a regular entrée.

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