Photo via Kamehachi
Veggie-lovers rejoice! Just because you love your greens, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be able to dig in and dine with abandon in Chicago. Lucky for vegetarian and vegan diners, there are plenty of options all across the city. These dishes are so delicious, that even meat-lovers will want to take a bite.
Brightwok Kitchen {21 East Adams Street, Chicago; 312.583.0729}
It’s all in your own veggie-loving hands at Brightwok! They have recommended bowl recipes, but you can also build your own, with a wide range of ingredients, including their fresh mixed greens base. Add on to that with toppings like tofu, bean sprouts, local mushrooms, or sauces like Golden Miso and Chili Coconut Curry. Make it a meal with sides like their Sweet & Sour Pickles!
Kizuki Izakaya’s Veggie Ramen {1482 North Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago; 773.270.4150}
This Japanese chain has select locations in the US, and Chicago is blessed to have a few. All of their ramen bowls are not-to-miss but the Veggie Ramen is a little spicy, and all vegetarian. It comes with shiitake mushroom and kelp stock, flavored with miso, and thickened with soy milk and ground sesame seeds.
Arun’s Thai’s Tasting Menu {4156 North Kedzie Avenue, Chicago; 773.539.1909}
If you are serious about Thai food, then Arun’s is for you. They now offer a six-course tasting menu in addition to their traditional 10 and 12-course menus, all of which are outstanding! With a variety of curries, their classic Mango Sticky Rice, and other seasonal dishes on rotation, their culinary team will work with both vegan and vegetarian diners to create a wholly singular dining experience.
Beatrix’s Asparagus Soup {various locations, River North, 519 North Clark Street, Chicago; 312.284.1377}
There is a vegetarian option for every meal time at Beatrix! From their morning pastries and Ten-Grain Oatmeal at breakfast to their Straight “A” Salad of arugula, avocado, Asian pear, asiago, almonds at lunch, to the dinner entrée Housemade Ricotta Ravioli with heirloom tomato relish. For vegans, there are also delicious options, including the Asparagus Soup with crispy quinoa and basil oil.
Clever Rabbit {2015 West Division Street, Chicago; 773.697.8711}
Vegetables are the focus of this Wicker Park spot, so it’s a no-brainer for clever veggie lovers in Chicago. Carrot Dumplings, Elotes, and Roasted Beets are just some of the delicious starters. It’s breakfast where the restaurant really shines though, thanks to options like the Avocado Pancakes with honeycomb, grapefruit, and BliS barrel-aged maple syrup. Even the cocktails have an herbal slant, like the Cheap Sunglasses cocktail crafted with Wheatly vodka, chareau, melon, lemon, and mint.
Benihana’s Spicy Tofu Steak {875 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago; 312.780.3110}
This well-known restaurant is known for the show as much as the cuisine, so it’s perfect for large groups or celebrations! Vegetarians can choose the Spicy Tofu Steak prepared with scallions and cilantro grilled in a special spicy homemade sauce.
Kamehachi’s Yaki Soba {1531 North Wells Street, Chicago; 312.664.3663}
Though there are plenty of classic Asian vegetarian options, like Vegetable Tempura, Kamehachi also offers hearty noodle selections. The Yaki Soba are pan-fried Japanese thin noodles with vegetables and a soy-flavored sauce. or guests can also choose the Yaki Udon. Plus, carnivores can add chicken, beef, or shrimp to either menu items!
By Kaleigh Glaza, Online Editor
The post Windy City’s Best Vegan and Vegetarian Dishes appeared first on DiningOut Chicago.