Columbus, Ohio, is a city that caters to diverse tastes and dietary preferences, including those who follow a vegan lifestyle. With its ever-growing food scene, Columbus has become a haven for plant-based eaters, offering a variety of vegan-friendly restaurants, cafés, and specialty shops. In this blog, we will explore some of the best vegan dining options in the city and provide tips for finding delicious plant-based meals during your time in Columbus.
Vegan-Friendly Restaurants
Columbus is home to several dedicated vegan and vegetarian restaurants that offer a wide range of delicious and satisfying plant-based dishes. Some popular spots to check out include:
- Portia’s Café: This cozy café in Clintonville offers a diverse menu of organic, vegan, and gluten-free options, including sandwiches, wraps, salads, and smoothies.
- Seitan’s Realm: A vegan comfort food truck turned brick-and-mortar restaurant, Seitan’s Realm serves up mouthwatering, plant-based versions of classic favorites like burgers, cheesesteaks, and mac ‘n’ cheese.
- Woodhouse Vegan: This trendy restaurant in the Italian Village offers a rotating seasonal menu of plant-based dishes, from shareable appetizers to satisfying entrees and indulgent desserts.
Plant-Based Options at Non-Vegan Restaurants
Many non-vegan restaurants in Columbus also cater the litto plant-based diners by offering vegan options on their menus. Some great places to enjoy vegan meals at mainstream eateries include:
- Brassica: This Mediterranean-inspired eatery in the Short North offers a variety of plant-based options, such as falafel, roasted vegetables, and hummus, which can be customized into a delicious salad or sandwich.
- Northstar Café: With several locations throughout the city, Northstar Café offers a selection of vegan-friendly dishes, including the popular Buddha Bowl and Veggie Burger.
- Melt Bar & Grilled: Known for its gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches; Melt offers a vegan menu featuring plant-based cheese and protein options, as well as vegan-friendly sides and desserts.
Vegan-Friendly International Cuisine
Columbus boasts a diverse culinary landscape, with numerous international restaurants offering vegan-friendly dishes. Some top picks for plant-based international cuisine include:
- Aangan India Bistro: Located in the Grandview Heights area, Aangan offers a variety of vegan-friendly Indian dishes, including vegetable curries, lentil dishes, and flavorful rice options.
- Aladdin’s Eatery: With multiple locations in Columbus, Aladdin’s serves up tasty vegan options from the Middle Eastern and Mediterranean culinary traditions, such as tabbouleh, falafel, and lentil soup.
Vegan Treats and Specialty Shops
Do not forget to indulge in some plant-based desserts and treats during your time in Columbus. Check out these vegan-friendly sweet spots:
- Pattycake Bakery: This charming bakery in Clintonville offers a variety of vegan baked goods, including cookies, cupcakes, and custom cakes made with organic and locally sourced ingredients.
- Bake Me Happy: Located in Merion Village, Bake Me Happy serves up delicious vegan and gluten-free treats, such as donuts, brownies, and cookies.
- Doughasis (Instagram: doughasis): Offering both gluten-free and vegan options, Doughasis is a must-visit for plant-based dessert lovers, with an impressive selection of cookies, cupcakes, and custom cakes.
Vegan-Friendly Coffee Shops and Cafes
Columbus has no shortage of coffee shops and cafes that offer vegan-friendly options, from plant-based milk alternatives to delicious pastries and sandwiches. Be sure to visit some of these popular spots:
- Fox in the Snow Café: With locations in Italian Village, German Village, and New Albany, this trendy coffee shop offers a variety of vegan baked goods, such as muffins, scones, and cookies, as well as a selection of plant-based milk options for your favorite coffee drinks.
- Stauf’s Coffee Roasters: A local favorite with several locations throughout the city, Stauf’s not only offers a variety of vegan milk alternatives but also stocks a selection of vegan-friendly snacks and treats.
- Global Gallery Coffee Shop: Located in Clintonville, Global Gallery is a fair-trade coffee shop that offers a range of vegan pastries, as well as sandwiches, wraps, and salads.
Vegan Meal Prep and Delivery Services
For those who prefer to enjoy plant-based meals in the comfort of their own home or workplace, Columbus offers a variety of vegan meal prep and delivery services:
- The Little Kitchen Plant-Based Food Co: This Columbus-based company offers a weekly menu of plant-based meals available for pickup or delivery, featuring a mix of comfort food classics, healthy bowls, and more.
- Green Gourmet Meal Prep: Specializing in plant-based meal prep, Green Gourmet offers a rotating menu of vegan dishes available for pickup or delivery, with options ranging from hearty entrees to tasty snacks and desserts.
Vegan Events and Meetups
To connect with fellow plant-based eaters and discover new vegan dining options, consider attending one of Columbus’s vegan events or meetups:
- Columbus Veg Community: This local meetup group hosts regular events, including potlucks, restaurant outings, and cooking classes, to bring together plant-based eaters and promote veganism in the community.
- VegFest Columbus: An annual celebration of all things vegan, VegFest Columbus features a variety of vendors, speakers, and cooking demonstrations, highlighting the best of the city’s plant-based food scene.
Columbus, Ohio, is a fantastic destination for vegan dining, with a diverse range of restaurants, cafes, and specialty shops catering to plant-based preferences. Whether you are a long-time vegan, a curious newcomer, or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, Columbus offers an abundance of delicious options to satisfy your cravings. As a medical resident or fellow, exploring the city’s vegan food scene is a great way to connect with the community, discover new flavors, and enjoy a healthy, compassionate lifestyle in Ohio’s capital city.