Finding vegetarian food used to be a challenging task when driving across the U.S. If you are planning a drive through the Southern United States, however, Peter Spiegel mentions that these days Austin, Texas, has a wide range of options that include vegan takes on classic comfort food and innovative vegetarian dishes from around the world.
Peter Spiegel feels that Texas, long known for its love of barbecue and Tex-Mex, has surprisingly expanded its culinary options to include vegan and vegetarian cuisine. Vegetarian and vegan restaurants are popping up even in smaller towns throughout the state.
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WalletHub’s 2023 study showed Austin as being the 9th best U.S. city for vegans and vegetarians. As this trend catches on, it makes Texas a more attractive destination for travelers seeking delicious and healthy plant-based meals.
Peter shared with us some options for popular vegan and vegetarian spots found in Austin, Texas.
- Arlo’s Curbside
Arlo’s is renowned for its all-vegan menu of comfort food served bistro-style. Their iconic food trailer is nestled in the heart of the city and is open daily from 11 AM to 12 AM. With a stellar 4.6-star rating on Google Maps, they’re known for crafting delectable tacos, hefty burgers, and classic sides like crispy fries.
Their vegan offerings have achieved legendary status, drawing crowds from all walks of life. Whether indulging after a late night out or craving a hearty, satisfying lunch, Arlo’s has something to delight your taste buds. While their tacos and Chipotle Chicken Sandwich are surefire hits, the Bac’nCheeze Burger steals the spotlight. Fans say that this burger behemoth boasts a house-made patty piled high with seitan bacon, winning over even the most devoted carnivores with its undeniable deliciousness.
2. The Vegan Yacht
Peter Spiegel said that the Vegan Yacht is a vibrant destination for plant-based dining. It offers a spectrum of bowls, burritos, and veggie hot dogs alongside a dedicated kids’ menu. With an impressive 4.8-star rating on Google Maps, it’s a beloved spot in Austin.
Renowned for its burritos, The Vegan Yacht’s“Freeto Burrito/Freeto Pie” was voted “Best Vegan Burrito” by the Austin Chronicle. Their acclaimed “famous free-to burrito” features tempeh chili, corn chips, avocado, and vegan cheese for a burst of flavor that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.
If you want to enjoy a uniquely relaxing experience following your meal, you can join them on Monday nights at 7 PM for dinner and a kirtan meditation.
3. The Vegan Nom
The Vegan Nom has the singular distinction of being Austin’s original vegan taco truck. Peter Spiegel said that the Vegan Nom features an eclectic array of plant-based meals that include vegan fish, chicken, tofu, and Korean BBQ taco options (and more!) alongside burritos, nachos, and snacks. This iconic, quirky food truck on E. Cesar Chavez not far from the Colorado River is surrounded by outdoor picnic tables. With a 4.7-star rating on Google, it’s a go-to spot for Texan taco aficionados embracing the animal-free lifestyle.
Peter Spiegel highlighted the Nueva Onda – a fusion of sweet potato hash-browns, scrambled tofu, and creamy avocado – as showcasing plant-based cuisine’s creativity. For a hearty start to your day, don’t miss out on the Big Brunch Burrito and Breakfast Nachos, sure to satisfy your morning cravings.
The Vegan Nom keeps the party going late into the night (open from 9 a.m. until 11 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday). Swing by for a taste of their Korean Barbecue Taco or the inventive Birdie Sanders, a buffalo chicken-inspired delight perfect for enjoying after a night out.
4. Bodhi Viet Vegans
Bodhi Viet Vegans is a hidden gem in North Austin, boasting an impressive 4.8-star rating on Google Maps and earning accolades for its phenomenal vegetarian fare. Diners rave about the great vegan Vietnamese dishes at unbeatable prices, top-tier customer service, and the spot’s status as the go-to for Vietnamese cuisine in the area.
This food truck is owned and operated by a collective of Buddhist nuns and volunteers. They incorporate homegrown vegetables to create tantalizing dishes aligning with their mission to support peaceful, healthy minds and bodies. Step up to the food truck and explore its diverse menu, which features bánh mi, bao, vermicelli, pho, Vietnamese coffee, and boba tea.
Despite its small size, Peter Spiegel reports that the Bodhi Viet Vegans food truck offers delicious, healthy, and budget-friendly options. Every dish captures the authentic flavors of Vietnamese cuisine without the use of animal products. Noteworthy favorites include the lemongrass seitan bánh mi and the aromatic pineapple curry. Wash your meal down with a refreshing glass of salty lemonade for the perfect culinary experience.
5. Community Vegan
Community Vegan on East 11th Street in Austin, Texas, is a haven for those craving comforting plant-based cuisine. It’s a culinary treasure in the city, praised for its top-notch offerings and hailed as a go-to destination for satisfying vegan comfort food.
An exceptional restaurant feature is its charming patio, offering delightful views of 11th Street. Peter Spiegel said diners can experience a relaxed atmosphere while enjoying buckets brimming with an assortment of mouthwatering delights. Some menu highlights include a beer-battered vegan cauli chicken&“I used to eat fish” fillet sandwiches, plant-based patty burgers, too-nah melts, fried oyster sandwiches, fried avocado bites, and chili cheese fries.
However, the true star of the menu is the fried mushroom dish, available in two irresistible varieties. Order the “lemon pepper wangz” for a zesty explosion of flavor in every crispy bite of fried oyster mushrooms, or savor the “dime bag”, showcasing savory, bite-sized chunks of lion mane mushrooms.
While the mushrooms steal the spotlight, Community Vegan’s menu boasts many well-loved plant-based renditions of beloved bar classics. Whatever comfort food you’re craving, there’s something sure to satisfy every palate.
