Berkeley is an ideal place for vegans to travel for some of the most creative, plant-based meals on the planet. After all, the city is so vegan-friendly that it passed a resolution that required only vegan food to be served once per week at all the city’s meetings and events. Berkeley is home to a wide variety of vegan, vegetarian, and vegan-friendly eateries. From a cruelty-free butcher to a casual Mexican restaurant where soy protein takes the place of beef, it has something for everyone. Consider these all-vegan restaurants when planning your dining adventures in Berkeley.
The Butcher’s Son
Don’t be perplexed by the name of this fantastic, casual eatery. The Butcher’s Son is an all-vegan delicatessen and bakery for plant-based diners who long for sweet and savory foods that are typically made with animal products. Omnivores also frequently come here for the great-tasting food. Think comfort food at its finest alongside indulgent desserts that make you want to come back for seconds no matter how full you are.
Vegan corn dogs, “chicken” parmesan (made with faux, soy-based chicken), hero sandwiches with protein slices, bagels with cream cheese, and cheesecakes are all served here. A kid’s menu is even available with dishes like plant-based grilled cheese sandwiches. Order what you want at the counter, then find a table. Save room for dessert or at least take the vegan rocky road ice cream to go.
The Butcher’s Son Location: 1954 University Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94704
Timeless Coffee
Timeless Coffee is a small, inviting all-vegan coffee roastery, chocolatier, and bakery. If it sounds like a source of three major pleasures, that’s because it is. The menu changes often, so check it out the website for monthly specials. Try to come early if you have your heart set on a certain dish since they can sell out. (Since the coffee shop makes such yummy food, it’s also very popular.) You can order lattes and other specialty coffees, savory dishes, handmade chocolates, cookies, cupcakes, and lots of other delicious vegan treats.
Timeless Coffee Location: 2965 College Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94705
Cha-Ya
Cha-Ya is an all-vegan Japanese restaurant with some of the best plant-based sushi you can find in California. The vegetable tempura roll is a large toll with tempura of banana squash, carrots, green beans, and yams. Uramaki rolls include avocado tempura, avocado and cucumber, and portobello and spinach. Nigiri sushi includes options such as fried firm tofu, eggplant, and avocado. A variety of noodle dishes are also available. Don’t leave without trying the vegan chocolate mousse cake.
Cha-Ya Location: 1686 Shattuck Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94709
Flacos
Scrumptious vegan Mexican food is served in a relaxed, charming environment at Flacos. The taquito that is made with thick textured soy protein is tasty. The tacos, pozole, and tamales are all popular. Get a full plate that comes with an entrée, a side of beans, organic brown rice, an organic green salad, and avocado salsa. Whatever you do, make sure you try the avocado salsa.
Flacos Location: 3031 Adeline Street, Berkeley, CA 94703
Veggie Grill
Veggie Grill is part of a chain of vegan restaurants offering fun, delectable food. It’s fast-casual where you order directly at the counter, then fix your own drink unless you order a can or bottle. (No Coca Cola or Pepsi products are served here, though.) The menu includes colorful entrée salads, a nice selection of veggie burgers, faux meat dishes, vegan macaroni and cheese, and protein bowls. Veggie Grill is also a popular restaurant for to-go ordering.
Veggie Grill Location: 48 Shattuck Square, Berkeley, CA 94704
The Flying Falafel
As another vegan chain restaurant, The Flying Falafel is a casual place to grab a yummy falafel meal. It’s fast food with some healthier touches. For example, you can get a combo with a falafel pocket, fries, and an organic drink. The friendly staff try to bring the “wow” factor to the experience, so there’s something to the restaurant’s promise that diners should “prepare to be falafelized”. Come hungry because you may find a few dishes irresistible.
The Flying Falafel Location: 2114 Shattuck Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94704
