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Dallas has certainly earned its reputation as a haven for meat-lovers. But for those who choose to eschew meat, the city has so many more options than it used to, which means that vegetarians don’t have to be eternally banished to the steakhouse salad bar. With new veggie-friendly spots and customizable options on omnivorous menus, it’s easier than ever for vegetarians and non-veggies alike to enjoy fresh, meatless meals all over the city.
With stops for protein-packed bowls in Bishop Arts to the only vegan Mexican spot in town, here’s how to spend a full day dining like vegetarian royalty in Dallas.
8 a.m. — Juice and Breakfast at Tribal All Day Cafe
Offering up a healthier take on seasonal coffee menus around town, try a cold-pressed juice like the Harvest, an autumn-forward blend of apple, orange, apple cider vinegar, all-spice, cinnamon, lemon and ginger. More of a green juice devotee? Order the Chief. While waiting on the juice to work its magic, load up on protein with a gluten-free Superfood Oatmeal or Power Bowl. And for those that feel a more seasonally ambitious, vegan pumpkin waffles are available on the weekends.
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11:30 a.m. — Appetizers at Velvet Taco
This omnivore fusion destination has expanded to three Dallas locations, which means that its red curry coconut queso is more accessible than ever. Order a round of frozen margaritas and enjoy a slightly spicy blend of pickled onion, queso fresco and Thai basil, served with a pile of blue corn chips. And since more chips will be needed, go ahead and order the dip-friendly elote, arguably the most traditional thing on the menu, with queso listo, Valentina, crema, queso fresco and lime. (Note: the queso is pescetarian thanks to the addition of shrimp paste.)
1:30 p.m. — Comfort food at V-Eats Modern Vegan
Squeezing in two lunches may seem ridiculous, but it’s worth it to try the comforting fare at V-Eats Modern Vegan at Trinity Groves. Feast on Fritos chili pie, buffalo cauliflower mac and cheese, and coconut milk rice, then wander around the area to walk off a seriously full stomach before heading to the next stop.
3:30 p.m. — Smoothies and snacks at Tiki Loco
When that inevitable afternoon crash hits, head over to this buzzy Deep Ellum spot for a sugar (and taco) fix. Try a creamy smoothie like the keto-friendly Avo-Keto or get dinner pregame started with a tray of nachos smothered in vegan cheese and tons of picked jalapenos.
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6 p.m. — Tacos and pastries at El Palote Panaderia
As the only vegan Mexican restaurant in the city, El Palote does not take this responsibility lightly. Inside this unassuming southeast Dallas kitchen, you’ll find all of the traditional favorites with a meatless spin. Don’t leave without trying the chicharrones, a spicy taco filled with delicious chile-marinated soy. If you’re lucky enough to dine on the weekend, be sure to warm up with some menudo, and any day of the week, fill up a bag with conchas and more of El Palote’s perfect pan dulce.
9 p.m. — Bar bites at Anvil Pub
This Deep Ellum bar is a great option for those that need a side of greasy pub food with their booze. After sipping a few Chilly Irishmen, feast on find quesadillas, nachos, pizza, burgers and chili, all customizable for vegans and vegetarian, and a much better than hitting an iffy drive-thru after the bar.
