Philly is a vegetarian and vegan haven that offers an array of plant–based fine–dining, bar snacks, desserts and fast–food. With countless vegetables and fruits in season, there's no better time than the summer to enjoy the best meat–free dishes that Philadelphia has to offer. Whether your a firm meat–eater or a veteran vegan, these veggie eats will satisfy your tastebuds.
The Banana Whip at HipCityVeg
With locations in University City and throughout Center City, HipCityVeg is a go–to place for all your vegan cravings. HipCityVeg is known for its healthy vegan alternatives for all your fast-food favorites: burgers, fries, cheesesteaks and soft–serve. That soft–serve comes in the form of a sweet, perfectly smooth banana whip. It’s light and sweet—perfect for a hot summer day. You will not believe that this ice–cream inspired treat is made from just bananas. If you’re looking to elevate your banana whip to the next level, try it topped with brownie bites, chocolate chips, or pretzel bits.
Locations: 214 South 40th Street
127 South 18th Street
301 South Broad Street
301 South Columbus Boulevard
Price: $4
Jerk Grilled Tofu from V Street
Most vegan restaurants stick to one cuisine, but V Street does not follow this rule. Inspired by street food from around the world, V Street offers a casual and cozy atmosphere to explore new flavors. Served tapas–style, these dishes are best when shared and savored with others. One of their best dinner menu items is their Jerk Grilled Tofu with green jerk sauce, escovitch cabbage and sweet potato aioli. This Caribbean dish packs a perfect amount of heat and the sweet potato aioli adds just a dash of sweet relief. V Street changes their menu seasonally to maximize on the season’s best produce, so make sure not to miss this dish as it may not stay for long.
Location: 126 South 19th Street
Price: $14
Buffalo Cauliflower Tacos from Bar Bombόn
Bar Bombόn is one the best Brunch spots in Philadelphia offering classics like chocolate banana pancakes, breakfast scrambles and tropical parfait. If you’re looking to adventure beyond these go-tos than the Buffalo Cauliflower Tacos are perfect for just that. The fried cauliflower is crunchy just like fried chicken and the buffalo sauce tastes just as buttery and spicy as the original thing. Avocado, cilantro dressing, black beans and white onions top the taco off to create an authentic latin meal. These tacos are great to be enjoyed in-restaurant—or perhaps as take-out to be enjoyed with a picnic on the nearby Rittenhouse Square Park.
Location: 133 South 18th Street
Price: $13
Truffle Parmesan Fries from White Dog Cafe
While White Dog Cafe is not an exclusively–vegan restaurant, it’s one of the most accommodating restaurants in University City with their vegetarian and vegan menus. Environmentally–sustainable and made with organic and locally–sourced products, the food at White Dog Cafe is good for you, the environment, and your tastebuds. This dog–themed restaurant is a great place to visit with any group of family and friends whether they be meat–eaters, vegetarians and vegans. One of their best sides is their truffle Parmesan fries which can also be prepared vegan. This side dish takes classic potato fries and makes them ultra–decadent with grated parmesan and truffle oil.
Location: 3420 Sansom Street
Price: $8
While these are only a few of the great vegetarian meals that Philly restaurants have to offer, they're a great way to explore how to eat in healthier and more environmentally–sustainable way. With brunch to dinner and snacks in–between, there really is something for everyone.
