7/18/24
Looking for Vegetarian, Vegan and Gluten-Free Restaurants Downtown?
YOUR GO-TO-GUIDE
Looking for the best vegetarian restaurants in Richmond, VA? If so, Downtown Richmond is calling your name! From savory meals and mouth watering vegan breakfast to delicious desserts, the choices are endless. Check out our round up of the best spots for V, VG & GF options downtown.
521 Biscuits & Waffles
This easygoing, family-owned restaurant serves classic breakfast food with a gluten-free spin. From breakfast sandwiches to waffles and scones, 521 serves Richmond guests quality food that encourages everyone to rise and shine!
Customer Favorites: Raspberry White Chocolate Scone (gf), House Orange Juice
Hours of Operation:
- Wednesday-Friday, 8 AM-11 AM + 11:30 AM-2 PM
- Saturday + Sunday, 8 AM-1 PM
Neighborhood: Financial District
Website: 521rva.com
And Dim Sum
And Dim Sum pride themselves on providing an ancient Chinese practice revolving around their small plates and tea! Their menu is best known for its selection of dumplings, main plates, and sweets. Each section on their menu also includes a gluten free, vegan, or vegetarian option for all to enjoy!
Customer Favorites: Cucumber Salad, Scallion Pancakes
Hours of Operation:
- Monday-Thursday, 4-9 PM
- Friday + Saturday, 4-10 PM
- Sunday, 10 AM-3 PM
Address: 305 Brook Road
Neighborhood: Jackson Ward
Website: anddimsumbar.com
Bar Solita
Bar Solita captures the essence of “vacation vibes” in their beloved bar and restaurant. Their menu features cuisines from all over the world and a wide array of vegan and vegetarian friendly options as well! The menu even offers a detailed key that includes GF, GFO, Vegan, Vegetarian, Nuts, and Pork labels, which makes it super easy to choose what's right for you.
Customer Favorites: Crispy Brussels, Falafel Pita Wrap
Hours of Operation:
- Monday-Thursday, 5-9 PM
- Friday, 5-10 PM
- Saturday, 10 AM-10 PM
- Sunday, 10 AM- 3 PM
Address: 123 W. Broad Street
Neighborhood: Arts District
Website: barsolita.com
Birdie’s
Birdie’s is a cafe, oyster bar, and wine cellar located in the heart of downtown RVA! They are best known for their cocktails, homemade pastries, and shareable plates alongside their numerous vegan, vegetarian, and gluten free items on their menu! This is a great spot to enjoy a unique dish and a refreshing beverage with all of your friends!
Customer Favorites: Birdie’s Chips, Watermelon Salad
Hours of Operation:
- Monday-Thursday, 8 AM-10 PM
- Friday, 8-12 AM
- Saturday, 9-12 AM
Address: 305 W. Broad Street
Neighborhood: Arts District
Website: birdiesva.com
Bottoms Up Pizza
Bottoms Up has been a Downtown staple for over 35 years and they've made it easy for everyone to enjoy their pies! Special toppings include vegan cheese, vegan sausage, vegan pepperoni, vegan ground beef and vegan chicken. They also have the option to create your own vegan pizza with that selection of toppings and their signature gluten free crust!
Customer Favorites: Triple Crossing Signature Pizza, Caesar Salad
Hours of Operation:
- Monday-Thursday, 11 AM-10 PM
- Friday + Saturday, 11 AM-11 PM
- Sunday, 11 AM-9 PM
Address: 1700 Dock Street
Neighborhood: Shockoe Bottom
Website: bottomsuppizza.com
Buna Kurs
Buna Kurs is a flourishing example of Ethiopian culture and food! As soon as you take a step into their cafe, just the smells alone will have your mouth watering. With a wide selection of vegan and vegan optional starters, breakfasts, and lunches, you can curate a delicious and filling Ethiopian meal!
Customer Favorites: Sambusa, Mango Smoothie
Hours of Operation:
- Monday-Sunday, 7 AM-6 PM
Address: 402 N. 2nd Street
Neighborhood: Jackson Ward
Website: bunakursrva.com
Capital Ale House
Located in a 108 year old building downtown, Capital Ale house captures the essence of downtown RVA’s food scene perfectly. Their menus feature several gluten free and vegetable options that can be customized to your liking! They also have both all-inclusive brunch hours and late night deals that highlight ½ off appetizers!
Customer Favorites: Black & Bleu Steak Salad, Grilled Chicken Sandwich
Hours of Operation:
- Monday-Thursday, 11-12 AM
- Friday, 11-1:30 AM
- Saturday, 10-1:30 AM
- Sunday, 10-12 AM
Address: 623 E. Main Street
Neighborhood: Financial District
Website: capitalalehouse.com
Capitol Waffle Shop
Who said waffles were just for breakfast? Capitol Waffle Shop is changing the narrative on this breakfast staple and making waffles the perfect choice all day. Build it your way and go savory or sweet all while meeting your dietary needs!
Customer Favorites: BYO Vegan/Gluten-free, Pineapple Juice
Hours of Operation:
- Wednesday-Sunday, 9 AM-3 PM
- Monday-Tuesday 9 AM-2 PM
Address: 1110 E. Main Street
Neighborhood: Financial District
Website: capitolwaffle.com
Cheddar Jackson
Cheddar Jackson serves up inventive grilled cheese sandwiches that can be enjoyed by all! Try out the Billie's Holiday with portobello mushroom and vegan cheese or the vegan ham and cheese.
Customer Favorites: Vegan Broccoli Cheddar Soup, The Woopar Impossible Burger
Hours of Operation:
- Sunday, 12-6 PM
- Monday + Thursday-Friday, 11 AM-11 PM
- Saturday, 12-11 PM
Address: 522 N. 2nd Street
Neighborhood: Jackson Ward
Website: cheddarjackson.com
Chopt
The one chain restaurant on this list, Chopt is nothing short of excellent! Their vegan options range from salads, bowls, wraps, and more. Each item on their menu is customizable and allows for delicious combos of all things vegan and gluten free!
Customer Favorites: Strawberry Summer Salad, Blissful Harvest Bowl
Hours of Operation:
- Monday-Friday, 10:30 AM-3 PM
Address: 901 E. Cary Street
Neighborhood: Shockoe Slip
Website: choptsalad.com
Elegant Cuizines
Step into the world of African cuisine with a modern twist at Elegant Cuizines, where each dish tells a story of passion for clean eating! Not only is every dish dairy-free, but there are also plenty of options for those who avoid gluten, soy and meat! Their menu also has a labeled guide that makes it much easier to locate the items that are gluten free and vegan.
Customer Favorites: Plantain Pancakes & Cauliflower Hash
Hours of Operation:
Brunch
- Monday-Saturday, 12-4 PM
Dinner
- Monday-Thursday, 4-9 PM
- Friday-Saturday, 4-10 PM
Address: 415 W. Grace Street
Neighborhood: Monroe Ward
Website: elegantcuizines.com
Havana ‘59
Havana ‘59 will whisk you away to Havana, Cuba in the 1950s where it was considered the “The Paris of the Caribbean”. As a staple in Shockoe Bottom, their menus focus on a wide selection of cuban dinners that include several gluten free and vegetarian options! If you're looking to experience a meal that takes you back in time, Havana ‘59 will do just that and more!
Customer Favorites: Black Bean Soup, ‘59 Paella Vegetables
Hours of Operation:
- Monday-Thursday, 4-10 PM
- Friday + Saturday, 4-11 PM
Address: 521 E. Main Street
Neighborhood: Shockoe Bottom
Website: havana59.com
Hotel Greene
Known for their unique hotel experience and indoor mini golf course, Hotel Greene also includes a delicious vegan friendly lobby bar! Their menu is made up of vegan brunch platters, snacks, appetizers, and handcrafted beverages. They serve walk ins at all hours outside of their scheduled brunch hours on Saturdays and Sundays!
Customer Favorites: Veggie Melt Breakfast Sandwich, Morning Mule
Hours of Operation:
Brunch
- Saturday + Sunday, 10 AM-2 PM
Lunch + Dinner
- Wednesday, 5-11 PM
- Thursday, 2-11 PM
- Friday, 5 PM-12 AM
- Sunday, 2-6 PM
Address: 508 E. Franklin Street
Neighborhood: Financial District
Website: hotelgreene.com
Gold Lion Community Cafe
This vegetarian bar and cafe has what is described as an “indian flare”. The indian-inspired dishes are filled with the fresh and savory ingredients that make the perfect stop for lunch and dinner! Alongside their food, they also have a full espresso and ice cream bar as well as a cocktail club, “Duke’s Den”.
Customer Favorites: Buddy’s Dosa, Vegan Sausage
Hours of Operation:
- Tuesday, 10 AM-2 PM
- Wednesday + Thursday, 9 AM-9 PM
- Friday + Saturday, 9 AM-10 PM
- Sunday, 9 AM-10 PM
Address: 1012 Hull Street
Neighborhood: Manchester
Website: goldlionrva.com
Kabana Rooftop
Located on the 20th floor of Hilton’s Hampton Inn and Suites, Kabana Rooftop serves up delicious meals alongside an unforgettable view! Their menu features a curated selection of entrees with numerous vegan, vegetarian, and gluten free options. If you're looking for a one stop spot that gives a great place to experience Richmond while enjoying your meal, this is it!
Customer Favorites: Brussel Sprouts, Summer Goat Salad
Hours of Operation:
- Tuesday-Thursday, 4-10 PM
- Friday, 4 PM-1 AM
- Saturday, 2 PM-1 AM
- Sunday, 5-10 PM
Address: 700 E. Main Street, 20th Floor
Neighborhood: Financial District
Website: kabanarooftop.com
GWAR Bar
GWARBar is an experience unlike any other. The fake blood-splattered bar serves up some of the best vegan food in Richmond, VA inspired by the heavy metal band Gwar. This fantasy land of food and beverage is said to cater to local punk metal freaks, rock stars, businessmen, celebrity chefs and starving artists.
Customer Favorites: Cauliflower Wings, Cait's Spicy Ass Vegan Chili
Hours of Operation:
- Monday-Sunday, 4 PM-2 AM
Address: 217 W. Clay Street
Neighborhood: Jackson Ward
Website: gwarbar.com
Millie's Diner
Millie’s Diner has a beautiful history behind it and amazing food! Their signature dishes, called “messes” are a hit and they are all gluten free with a vegan option as well. Millie’s also includes a wide selection of salads, sandwiches, and sides that are equally as tasty!
Customer Favorites: Veggie Mess, Huevos Rancheros
Hours of Operation:
- Wednesday-Sunday, 9 AM-3 PM
Address: 2603 E. Main Street
Neighborhood: Shockoe Bottom
Website: milliesdiner.com
Native Plate
Serving dishes inspired by global street food with Asian and American influences, Native Plate is sure to excite your palate. This women-owned business uses only the freshest ingredients to create a culturally enriched experience for its customers.
Customer Favorites: Peanut Salad, Vermicelli Salad Bowl
Hours of Operation:
- Monday-Saturday, 11 AM-10 PM
Address: 1203 E. Main Street
Neighborhood: Shockoe Slip
Website: nativeplaterva.com
NuVegan Café
NuVegan’s mission is to redefine the perception of vegan cuisine. The café caters to all customers from the transitioning to vegan eater to the hardcore health enthusiast. All the food is made fresh in their kitchen and includes endless options for quick bite handhelds. With amazing hospitality, NuVegan is your new home away from home.
Customer Favorites: Vegan Fish Sandwich, Vegan Lasagna
Hours of Operation:
- Monday-Saturday, 12-8 PM
- Sunday, 12-7 PM
Address: 417 W. Grace Street
Neighborhood: Arts District
Website: ilovenuvegan.com
Oak and Apple
Oak and Apple is known for their delicious eats fresh out of a hickory smoker that dates back to 1947! They have a good variety of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options that still give a taste of traditional BBQ. In addition to being inclusive through their dishes, they also have a dog friendly patio, so feel free to stop by with your furry friends!
Customer Favorites: Veggie BBQ Nachos, Jackfruit Lettuce Wraps
Hours of Operation:
- Monday- Sunday, 11 AM-11 PM
Address: 1814 E. Main Street
Neighborhood: Shockoe Bottom
Website: oakandapplerichmond.com
Patio Thai
If you’re looking for an intimate outdoor setting from vegan restaurants in Richmond, look no further than Patio Thai. Its brick-accented patio mixed with classy Thai food gives an authentic, cozy feel to any meal. The courtyard garden offers everything from traditional fried rice to elaborate curry noodle dishes.
Customer Favorites: Thai Garden Salad, Vegetable Pad Ka-Pow Dinner
Hours of Operation:
- Monday-Thursday, 11 AM-3 PM | 4:30-9:30 PM
- Friday-Saturday, 12-10 PM
- Sunday 12-9:30 PM
Address: 103 E. Cary Street
Neighborhood: Monroe Ward
Website: patiothairva.com
Penny’s Wine Shop
At Penny’s they embrace a brick and mortar concept of natural wine, small plates, and seasonal menu offerings! Their menu, curated by Chef Chris Stough, changes daily to incorporate local produce and give a taste of something new. Vegan and vegetarian options are available each day alongside the daily specials!
Customer Favorites: Chilled Coconut Soup, Poached Korean Pear
Hours of Operation:
- Wednesday + Thursday, 5-10 PM
- Friday, 3-10 PM
- Saturday, 12-10 PM
Address: 405 Brook Road
Neighborhood: Jackson Ward
Website: pennysrva.com
Perly’s
“It’s Yiddish for Delicious!” Perly’s Richmond offers traditional Jewish deli bites and dinners with a creative, modern twist. This Richmond favorite is a funky, retro restaurant enticing its customers with mouth watering plates and great service.
Customer Favorites: Grain Salad, Latkes
Hours of Operation:
- Wednesday-Sunday, 9 AM-3 PM
Address: 111 E. Grace Street
Neighborhood: Monroe Ward
Website: perlysrichmond.com
Philly Vegan
At Philly Vegan their motto is, “Plant-Based, Tastes Great” and they’re not wrong! This family owned and operated business has over 25 years of Philly cheesesteak cooking experience. Stop in to try the popular cheeseburger quesadilla and famous $6 dairy-free milkshakes! This vegetarian restaurant in Richmond also offers free meals to community members regularly. Check their Instagram for more on their Pay-What-You-Can days.
Customer Favorites: Philly Vegan Supreme Cheesesteak, Lentil Nuggets
Hours of Operation:
- Tuesday-Thursday, 11:30 AM-7 PM
- Friday, 11:30 AM-9 PM
- Saturday, 12-9 PM
Address: 1126 Hull Street
Neighborhood: Manchester
Website: phillyvegan9.com
Tarrant’s Cafe
Tarrant’s Cafes motto is to “Celebrate the Everyday”! You can do just that at their homestyle restaurant for brunch, lunch, or dinner. Their menu full of comfort foods, offers several gluten free entrees and sides that can be customized to your liking!
Customer Favorites: Ahi Tuna, Greek Salad
Hours of Operation:
- Monday-Saturday, 11 AM-10 PM
- Sunday, 10 AM-9 PM
Address: 1 W. Broad Street
Neighborhood: Jackson Ward
Website: tarrantsdowntown.com
TJ's/Lemaire
TJ’s Bar and Lounge is currently partnered with Lemaire Restaurant to serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner out of the Jefferson Hotel. Their menu features numerous appetizer, entree, dessert, and beverage options that include vegan, vegetarian, and gluten free friendly choices as well! The restaurant is open to the public on all days except Saturday and Sunday during breakfast hours!
Customer Favorites: Heirloom Tomato Salad, House Made Casarecce
Hours of Operation:
Breakfast
- Monday-Saturday, 7-11 AM
- Sunday, 7 AM-1 PM
Lunch
- Monday-Saturday, 11:30 AM-2 PM
Dinner
- Monday-Sunday, 5-10 PM
Address: 101 W. Franklin Street
Neighborhood: Arts District
Website: jeffersonhotel.com/dine/tjs
Urban Hang Suite
Urban Hang Suite is known for being a great place to connect and get work done while also enjoying a great cup of coffee! They offer a wide variety of drinks, all day breakfast, sandwiches, soups, salads, and bowls. Uniquely, their menu also allows the option to switch up any item to customize it to your liking, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten free choices!
Customer Favorites: Vegan Bowl, Loose Leaf Tea
Hours of Operation:
- Monday-Friday, 7:30 AM-2 PM
Address: 304 E. Broad Street
Neighborhood: Arts District
Website: urbanhangsuiterva.com
Whisk
If you’re in need of a true sweet treat, this is the place to go! Whisk has freshly baked pastries, cookies, cakes, and more daily. Additionally, they also have a selection of coffees, sandwiches, and croissants. Each menu item can be customized if pre ordered to be gluten free alongside the already made options!
Customer Favorites: Macarons, Almond Croissant
Hours of Operation:
- Sunday + Monday, 7 AM-2 PM
- Tuesday-Saturday, 7 AM-4 PM
Address: 2100 E. Main Street
Neighborhood: Shockoe Bottom
Website: whiskrva.com
Wishbone Food Shop
Wishbone Food Shop serves up a selection of deliciously curated breakfasts, lunches, desserts, and beverages daily! Their ingredients are locally sourced and make up a menu full of different soups, salads, sandwiches, and more. Several of their menu options are vegetarian or gluten free but others have the option to be customized as well!
Customer Favorites: Hot Tea, Cakes
Hours of Operation:
- Monday-Friday 7 AM-3 PM
Address: 2 N. 6th Street
Neighborhood: Financial District
Wong Gonzalez
Serving up a delicious menu full of Asian and Latin cuisine, Wong Gonzalez is a hot spot for lunch and dinner in RVA! Their menu includes a special selection of salads, rice plates, tacos, and much more. With several vegan, vegetarian, and gluten free options, you can’t go wrong with your choice!
Customer Favorites: Sopa Caliente and Eterna Ensalada
Hours of Operation:
Lunch
- Tuesday-Friday, 11:30 AM-2:30 PM
- Saturday, 12-3 PM
Dinner
- Tuesday-Thursday, 4-10 PM
- Friday + Saturday, 4-11 PM
- Sunday, 4-9 PM
Address: 412 E. Grace Street
Neighborhood: Arts District
Website: wonggonzalez.com
