Approximately 2.3 million vegetarians and more than 850,000 vegans reside in Canada, the majority living on the West Coast (BC). Not only have plant-based options expanded rapidly in grocery aisles, but vegan dining has also taken off … beyond just salads. You can find healthy, praise-worthy plant-based restaurants across Canada.
Since Vancouver hosts the largest number of vegans in Canada, it makes sense that this city also boasts an eatery named the world’s best vegan restaurant (by Big 7 Travel in 2019). The Acorn has also been dubbed a top vegetarian destination by the likes of CNN and The Daily Meal. Taking plant-based dining to a new level of sophistication, The Acorn’s creative dishes use only fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Heirloom has become well known for healthy and addictive vegan dining in a beautiful heritage building. This is a long-standing eatery that has been dedicated to offering a socially conscious and creative dining experience since 2012. Using turmeric tofu in place of scrambled eggs or carrots in place of lox, for example, has landed Heirloom as a popular brunch spot.
Recognized in 2022 as one of the best local vegan/vegetarian restaurants by Avenue Calgary Magazine, Vegan Street is a must when in Calgary. Offering comfort food, it has become a staple for those needing vegan fuel. Vegan Street was one of the first dine-in plant-based restaurants in Calgary.
The Karma is a feel-good space. From from the moment you walk, you’ll be greeted with upbeat and friendly vibes. Inspired by Indian roots, delicious spices are infused in the plant-based fare, including dishes with cilantro, tandoori flavors, and naan bread on the side. Beyond its delicious food and beverages, this eatery is dedicated to doing acts of good in its community.
Geared toward adventurous diners, Avelo wows guests by offering prix-fixe courses, where you only find out what you are eating as you are being served. Giving a fresh experience every time, and located in an old Victorian townhouse, it’s truly unique. On the upper level, you’ll find more of a tapas vibe with vegan cheese plates and drinks. Now that’s “next level.”
Adorned with greenery, Rosalinda is a lively oasis in Downtown Toronto. If you love Mexican fare, Rosalinda provides fresh and exciting dishes, like the Rosa Burger with achiote brioche or Banana Leaf Barbacoa, that go beyond typical street food. On top of that, the menu and wines change seasonally, providing unique tastes often.
At Antidote, things are never what they seem. The menu changes seasonally and the ambiance varies by day or night (expect atmospheric candlelit evenings). Antidote’s menu provides plant-based alternatives to classically loved brunch items and is redefining what it means to dine as a vegan (try their burgers or poutine!).
Sushi Momo is a must-try spot for vegans and non-vegans alike. In 2021, RestoMontreal named it one of the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Montreal. Sushi Momo was also voted one of the best Japanese restaurants in Montreal by Cult MTL readers, holding up to the non-vegan sushi. Sushi Momo’s skyrocketing popularity is no surprise, as its chefs use vegetables in innovative ways to create sushi that looks as beautiful as it tastes.
This contemporary bistro’s mission is to help people choose sustainable living—through delicious vegan meals. enVie offers mouth-watering mains, from Yaki Udon with spicy seitan beef to a Mushroom Melt Burger (menu items subject to change). You can also look to enVie for a variety of raw, cold-pressed juices.
When heart meets health meets charm—that’s the perfect way to describe The Abbey. A gallery cafe, you can find it nestled in the downtown community surrounded by local art and affordable vegan eats. Expect to find every seasonal vegetable on their menu, as the cooks create dishes that load up on heart-healthy veggies in every bite.