Nashville’s Best Vegan Restaurants
Nashville, Music City, USA, is known for its vibrant music scene, honky-tonks, and of course, its famous hot chicken. But beneath the surface of the country music capital lies a thriving, ever-growing, and surprisingly diverse vegan food scene. The rise of plant-based eating has reached Nashville, and chefs and restaurants are embracing the movement, creating delicious and innovative vegan options that even the most skeptical meat-eater will enjoy. Whether you’re a long-time vegan, a curious omnivore exploring plant-based alternatives, or simply looking for a healthy and delicious meal, Nashville has something to offer. This guide will explore the best vegan restaurants, cafes, and hidden gems Nashville has to offer, ensuring a satisfying and flavorful plant-based experience in Music City.
Let’s dive into some of the city’s top spots dedicated entirely to the art of vegan cuisine. These restaurants have built their reputations on crafting creative, flavorful, and completely plant-based menus.
Sunflower Cafe
A true Nashville staple, Sunflower Cafe has been serving up delicious vegetarian and vegan fare for years, long before it was trendy. This East Nashville gem exudes a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with its bright interior and friendly staff. The menu is packed with comfort food classics, all given a plant-based twist.
Signature dishes include their iconic tempeh reuben, piled high with marinated tempeh, sauerkraut, vegan Russian dressing, and melted vegan cheese on grilled rye bread. The vegan mac and cheese is another must-try, creamy and decadent without a trace of dairy. Don’t miss their daily specials, which often feature creative and seasonal ingredients. Prices are very reasonable, making Sunflower Cafe a great option for a casual and affordable vegan meal.
The Southern V
Craving some Southern comfort food, vegan style? Look no further than The Southern V. This popular spot in Buchanan Street serves up mouthwatering plant-based versions of Southern classics, from fried “chicken” to barbecue. They also offer an array of sweet vegan treats and desserts.
Their star attraction is undoubtedly the vegan fried chicken, made with a crispy, flavorful coating and served with your choice of sides like mac and cheese, collard greens, and mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, try the BBQ jackfruit sandwich, a sweet and savory delight. And don’t forget to save room for dessert! The Southern V offers an ever-changing selection of vegan cakes, pies, and cookies. Expect a moderate price range, reflecting the quality of the ingredients and the generous portions.
Avo
For a more upscale and health-conscious vegan experience, head to Avo. Located in the trendy neighborhood of Nashville, Avo offers a refined menu of plant-based dishes with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The atmosphere is modern and sophisticated, making it a great spot for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
Highlights from the menu include the butternut squash ravioli, a delicate and flavorful dish served with sage butter sauce, and the jackfruit tacos, packed with spicy jackfruit, pico de gallo, and avocado crema. They also offer a selection of creative cocktails and mocktails. Avo is on the higher end of the price spectrum, but the quality of the food and the overall experience make it worth the splurge.
Graze Nashville
Located on East Nashville, Graze is a plant-based eatery that serves up creative dishes and classic favorites. Offering brunch, lunch, and dinner, this spot offers an array of options that even the most discerning foodie will enjoy.
Highlights on their menu includes their biscuits and gravy, fried green tomatoes, and tempeh tacos. Be sure to check this spot out for their cocktails and desserts as well.
Vegan Friendly Restaurants With Standout Options
Even if a restaurant isn’t exclusively vegan, many Nashville establishments offer impressive plant-based options that are worth seeking out. These restaurants are embracing the growing demand for vegan food and are creating dishes that are both delicious and satisfying.
Butcher & Bee
While known for its creative sandwiches and salads, Butcher & Bee also boasts a surprising number of vegan options. This East Nashville favorite is committed to using fresh, local ingredients, and their menu changes seasonally, ensuring there’s always something new to try.
Vegan highlights include the roasted vegetable sandwich, the avocado toast with everything bagel seasoning, and the grain bowls, which can be customized with a variety of vegan toppings. The staff is also very knowledgeable about dietary restrictions and is happy to accommodate vegan requests. The price range is moderate, making Butcher & Bee a great option for a casual lunch or dinner.
Biscuit Love
Don’t let the name fool you; Biscuit Love offers more than just biscuits. While this popular breakfast spot is known for its Southern-inspired cuisine, they also have a dedicated vegan menu with several delicious options.
The standout vegan dish is the Lily, a vegan biscuit topped with vegan gravy and your choice of vegan protein. They also offer vegan pancakes and grits. Biscuit Love can get crowded, especially on weekends, so be prepared to wait or make a reservation. The price range is moderate.
Hattie B’s Hot Chicken
Yes, you read that right! Even Nashville’s famous hot chicken joints are getting in on the vegan action. While Hattie B’s is primarily known for its fiery chicken, they do offer a vegan option made with cauliflower.
The vegan hot cauliflower is coated in Hattie B’s signature spice blend and served on a bun with coleslaw and pickles. While it’s not exactly a health food, it’s a surprisingly satisfying and flavorful vegan option that allows you to experience the Nashville hot chicken craze without compromising your values. Be warned: even the mildest spice level can pack some serious heat!
Casual Vegan Eats and Quick Bites
Sometimes, you just need a quick and affordable vegan meal on the go. Fortunately, Nashville has plenty of options for casual vegan eats and quick bites.
Elysian Fields Cafe
Tucked away on Elliston Place near Vanderbilt is a haven for those seeking a quick and plant-based bite. This casual cafe offers a varied menu with delicious grab-and-go options.
Highlights include the tempeh lettuce tomato sandwich, quinoa bowls, and selection of coffees and smoothies. This is a great location for students or for a quick bite before catching a show at the nearby venues.
Rad Wraps
For a quick, healthy, and customizable meal, Rad Wraps is a great choice. Located in East Nashville, this food truck offers a variety of wraps, bowls, and salads, all with plenty of vegan options.
You can build your own wrap or bowl with your choice of grains, proteins, vegetables, and sauces. They offer a variety of vegan proteins, including tempeh, tofu, and black beans. The prices are very reasonable, making Rad Wraps a great option for a budget-friendly vegan meal.
Vegan Donuts and Sweet Treats
No meal is complete without dessert, and Nashville has plenty of options for vegan sweet treats. From decadent donuts to creamy ice cream, there’s something for every sweet tooth.
Five Daughters Bakery
While not entirely vegan, Five Daughters Bakery offers a selection of delicious vegan donuts that are worth seeking out. These donuts are made with a unique recipe that results in a light and airy texture.
The vegan donuts come in a variety of flavors, including chocolate, vanilla, and maple. They are often available at their East Nashville location and other select locations. Be sure to call ahead to confirm availability.
Tips for Eating Vegan in Nashville
Navigating menus can be tricky when you’re vegan, but here are a few tips to make it easier:
- Look for “Plant-Based”: Many restaurants are now using the term “plant-based” to indicate vegan options.
- Ask About Ingredients: Don’t be afraid to ask your server about the ingredients in a dish.
- Common Substitutions: Many restaurants are happy to substitute dairy milk for plant-based milk or use vegan cheese.
- Use Apps & Websites: HappyCow is a great resource for finding vegan restaurants and options.
- Explore Local Markets: Farmers’ markets and health food stores are great places to find vegan staples and specialty items.
Beyond the Restaurants: Vegan Nashville Experiences
Eating vegan in Nashville is about more than just the restaurants. Here are a few other ways to experience the vegan community:
- Vegan Events & Festivals: Keep an eye out for vegan festivals and events, which are a great way to sample local vegan food and meet other vegans.
- Cooking Classes: Several cooking schools in Nashville offer vegan cooking classes.
- Community Groups: Connect with other vegans through local organizations and groups.
Conclusion
Nashville’s vegan food scene is thriving and evolving, offering a diverse range of options for both locals and visitors. From dedicated vegan restaurants to vegan-friendly establishments, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re craving Southern comfort food, upscale cuisine, or a quick bite on the go, Nashville has a plant-based option for you. So get out there and explore the delicious vegan offerings in Music City! Share your favorite spots in the comments below. Whether you’re a dedicated vegan or simply curious about exploring more plant-based choices, Nashville’s growing and innovative vegan community welcomes you with open arms (and delicious food!). Enjoy your plant-based adventure in Nashville!
