7 Tasty Local Restaurants for Vegans, Vegetarians, or Gluten-Free Richmonders
I love food. Who doesn’t? I find that I enjoy treating myself to a meal alone every now and then. It’s my time to unwind and devour a bite to eat of my choice with a glass of wine.
I also love to go out with friends, and let’s face it: Everyone these days has dietary preferences or restrictions. But food is comfort. It’s nourishment. And choosing a restaurant when coming together with those you love should be just as easy as when you get to decide for yourself.
So, I’ve put together this list of my favorite restaurants that easily double as crowd-pleasers.
— by Alie Mcardle, Contributing Writer
Bottoms Up Pizza
Pizza is the way to my heart. And when it comes to appealing to dietary restrictions, I can’t recommend Bottoms Up enough. Slingin’ pies since 1990, it’s no wonder they have RVA by the heartstrings. Not only do they cater to vegetarians, they also offer vegans a dedicated vegan section on their menu, featuring vegan cheese and imitation meat. (By the way: Substitute roasted garlic for the broccoli on The Danielle — you’ll thank me later.)
Looking for gluten-free pizza? Look no further. They also have a gluten-free crust!
Location: 1700 Dock Street (Shockoe Bottom)
Hours: Found here
Menu: Found here
821 Cafe
821 Cafe is a Richmond staple and for good reason. This small but mighty restaurant is situated close to the VCU campus, so you might compete with students to snag a table on busier days. Don’t fret, though; it’s worth the wait. You’ll find tons of options for meat eaters, vegans, and vegetarians alike.
Location: 825 W Cary St (VCU)
Hours: Found here
Menu: Found here
Silver Diner
The first time I went to Silver Diner, I was completely blown away by their menu selection. They have a dish here for everyone, and everything is labeled for ease. Carnivores, vegans, keto-friendly, flexitarians (yes, that’s a thing) can meet up here anytime for a meal together.
Location: 10890 W Broad St (Glen Allen)
Hours: Found here
Menu: Found here
Ipanema
Ipanema is a 100% vegan restaurant, but you don’t need to be a vegan to enjoy the food here. I’ve brought friends with different diets to this restaurant, and they’ve raved about the flavorful dishes available. Check out their gluten-free options as well!
Location: 917 W Grace St (The Fan)
Hours: Found here
Menu: Found here
Devil’s Lettuce
Devil’s Lettuce is a brand-new vegan restaurant that even has meat-eaters coming back for more. Here, you’ll find vegan comfort food that makes your taste buds smile. There really isn’t anything like it in RVA since Hang Space closed, but if you’re feeling skeptical, just check out their rave reviews.
Location: 4028 Cox Rd J (Glen Allen)
Hours: Found here
Menu: Found here
The Daily Kitchen & Bar
The Daily Kitchen & Bar holds a special place in my heart, and yes, it is because it’s where my partner and I had our first date (*cue heart eyes*). This spot also supports keto diets along with vegetarians and vegans. I love ordering the breakfast burrito and a bloody Mary during brunch.
Location: 2934 W Cary St (Carytown) and 12201 W Broad St (Short Pump)
Hours: Found here
Menu: Found here
LUNCH.SUPPER!
LUNCH.SUPPER! takes their food seriously, which makes it especially perfect for keto-conscious folks, vegetarians, and vegans. Their menu has tons of tasty treats and eats to choose from. I love the stuffed portabellas and smoked hummus plate.
Location: 1213 - 1215 Summit Ave (Scott’s Addition)
Hours: Found here
Menu: Found here
Still hungry?
