Gone are the days when vegetarian and vegan dining meant a sad side salad. In recent years, awareness around health and the environment has made plant-based eating more popular than ever. Local chefs have taken note, with menus now offering everything from saucy seitan wings and tempeh bacon burgers to crispy tofu bao buns, vegetable tempura sushi, and more. Traditionally plant-forward cuisines like those of India and Ethiopia add vibrant flavor to the mix.
Whether you’re strictly vegan or simply curious about the hype, there’s no shortage of options around town. Here are 22 of the best vegetarian restaurants in Denver.
Vegan and Vegetarian Restaurants
Somebody People
Chic and sophisticated, this South Broadway hot spot is one of the city’s more refined vegan restaurants. Make Monday memorable with its Enoteca series which involves a $35 bistro-style set menu and 50 percent off all bottles of sommelier-selected wines from Australia and across Europe.
For a more substantial meal, book its Sunday Supper ($42) or order several dishes from the à la carte menu, such as umami-rich Gigante Beans ($15) and No Waste Gnocchi ($26) in a flavorful pea pod broth. Local, seasonal vegetables take center stage at Somebody People. 1165 S. Broadway, Denver, somebodypeople.com
Gladys
After long occupying a modest stall, Gladys expanded into a dedicated dining space spanning more than 2,500 square feet last year. Still within Edgewater Public Market, the vegan eatery has built a reputation for its whole foods focus. Many dishes rotate seasonally but some signatures are always on offer, like its Reuben ($19) featuring celery root, pickled kraut, and horse radish crème fraîche on toasted marble rye. 5505 W. 20th Ave., Edgewater, gladysrestaurant.com
Mother Other
The Easy Vegan has long operated as a food stand at local farmers markets, but its owners always dreamed of a brick-and-mortar branded as Mother Other. Last year, they began trialing the concept as a supper club in their private kitchen, then began renovating a neighboring unit in the Denver Design District.
The restaurant made its debut earlier this summer and already, it’s receiving rave reviews for its dedicated service and delicious menu. First-time guests should order the best-selling Giarancini ($16), the Japanese Sweet Potato ($19), and the chef’s signature Potato and Chive Pierogi ($22). 675 S. Broadway, Denver, motherother.com
Fellow Traveler
Flavors span the globe at Fellow Traveler, a vegan restaurant with a stellar selection of craft mocktails and cocktails. Pairing opportunities here are vast. Order a vodka-based beverage featuring guava and citrus alongside a tofu Bánh Mì ($18) or perhaps a spicy margarita with a Deep South Broadway Burrito ($17) smothered in spicy green chile. Weekend brunch options add to the menu, as do happy hour deals on weekdays from 3 to 6 p.m. 3487 S. Broadway, Englewood, ftbar.com
Next Level Veggie Grill
After acquiring Veggie Grill in 2024, this vegan restaurant chain became the largest on the continent. All 20-plus eco-conscious eateries serve craveable smash patties and black bean burgers stacked with toppings like tempeh bacon, scratch-made sauces, and organic vegetables. Last year, the University neighborhood outpost became the first to transition to Next Level Veggie Grill. With this rebrand came an expanded menu featuring grain bowls, plated entrées, superfood smoothies, and more. 1605 E. Evans Ave., Denver, nextlevelburger.com
Watercourse Foods
Founded in 1998 as a vegetarian restaurant, Watercourse Foods switched to an entirely plant-based menu more than a decade ago, making it the first vegan eatery in Denver. This Uptown trendsetter won fans with its approachable, from-scratch fare. Many items are made in-house, such as the dressing and crisp, seasoned tofu bites in its CKN Caesar Salad ($18). The weekend brunch menu also offers a mouthwatering selection that’s best enjoyed on its shaded patio. 837 E. 17th Ave., Denver, watercoursefoods.com
City O’ City
A vegetarian sister concept to Watercourse Foods, this women and queer-run restaurant has long operated in Capitol Hill. Pieces from local artists rotate monthly, adding to the bohemian vibe of the space. Stop in for comforting classics like its Poutine ($11) made with cashew ricotta and BBQ Bowl ($17) of slathered seitan atop vegan mac and cheese. This mainstay also serves a delish breakfast menu daily. The Chicken and Waffles ($16) featuring fried cauliflower and bourbon maple syrup are not to be missed. 206 E. 13th Ave., Denver, cityocitydenver.com
The Corner Beet
This vegetarian restaurant in Cap Hill checks every feel-good box. Take a seat on its sidewalk patio or within its cozy, wood-paneled dining room. Set next to large windows, the numerous potted plants are as fresh as The Corner Beet’s seasonal menu. For breakfast, order its Savory Forest ciabatta toast ($16) stacked with a fried egg, mashed avocado, and sautéed mushrooms alongside an Organic Cold-Pressed Juice ($7). Afternoon options like its Thai Peanut Salad ($19) are just as healthy, yet wonderfully satisfying. 1401 N. Ogden St., Denver, cornerbeet.com
Mora Pizza
While many vegan restaurants cater to the health-conscious, this Capitol Hill pizzeria is all about delightful indulgence. Before a show at the Fillmore or between bar hopping down East Colfax, head here for New York-style slices like you’ve never seen. Though some lean more traditional, others are unapologetically excessive with toppings inspired by chicken parmesan and even cheeseburgers with extra pickles. Mora just might be the city’s best spot for a late-night vegan bite. 614 E. 13th Ave., Denver, instagram.com/mora_pizza
V Revolution
The vegan menu at V Revolution takes inspiration from a range of Asian flavors. Dig your chopsticks into a Spicy Korean Bowl ($13), tofu-topped Drunken Noodles ($15), or a tangy plate of Pad Thai ($15). Served as a trio, bao buns come crowned with shiitake and oyster mushrooms, sticky orange chickin’, and even plant-based pork belly with kimchi and pickled veg. Come as you are to this counter-serve Englewood eatery or order takeout for a tasty, no-fuss meal at home. 3570 S. Logan St., Englewood, vrevolutionusa.com
Vegetarian-Friendly Restaurants
Konjo Ethiopian Food
Some culinary traditions, like those in Ethiopia, are rooted in plant-based ingredients. No substitutions are required at Konjo, one of the newer eateries within Denver Milk Market. It also has a stall inside Edgewater Public Market on the west side of town.
If you’re unfamiliar with Ethiopian cuisine or simply want a tour of the menu, order its Vegan Plate ($14). This tasty meal comes with two rolls of injera, a spongy flatbread used to scoop up your choice of three veggies, such as curried cabbage and spiced red lentils. Multiple locations, konjoethiopianfood.com
MAKfam
Plant-based diners will find plenty to love at MAKfam, a hip Chinese restaurant in the Baker neighborhood. Step up to its counter to order small bites to share, like its Scallion Pancake ($7.50), garlicky Stir-Fried Greens ($11.50), and Málà Fried Tofu ($13) made with mouth-numbing Sichuan peppercorns.
If you’re a fan of some heat, the Sizzling Spicy Noodles ($16.50) from chef Kenneth Wan are also a must. Cool down with one of several inventive cocktails served in colorful ceramic cups. 39 W. 1st Ave., Denver, makfam.co
Anise
This casual eatery in Capitol Hill serves comforting Vietnamese fare around the clock. Cozy up with a bowl of savory Rice Porridge ($10) during weekend brunch or a steaming order of Vegan Pho ($15.50) on a chilly afternoon. Available only during lunch, the Tofu Bánh Mì ($11.50) is another fan favorite featuring a house-baked baguette and all the classic accoutrements: pickled carrots and daikons, cilantro, jalapeños, and cucumbers. Make it a meal with an Anise Milk Tea ($5.95) complete with chewy tapioca pearls. 865 Lincoln St., Denver, anisedenver.com
Boychik
Vegetarians have many options at this Mediterranean stall, which occupies both Stanley Marketplace and Avanti Boulder. Visit with friends to share a range of flavorful dips like Muhammara, Golden Beet Toum, and Whipped Feta ($9.50 each) with fluffy, housemade pitas.
The Fried Cauliflower ($15) with creamy labneh and fresh herbs is another standout dish, which can also be ordered in a wrap or bowl. Stop by for a quick lunch or linger with a glass of wine; the selection is surprisingly extensive. Multiple locations, boychikkitchen.com
Tarascos
As a vegetarian, dining at an authentic Mexican restaurant can be tricky. Rice is generally cooked in chicken broth and lard often sneaks its way into refried beans. But diners at Tarascos have peace of mind, as the menu is clearly marked and offers an array of choices. Savor Veggie Pibil street tacos ($16), the nopales Sopes Plate ($18), or the Spinach Enchiladas with vibrant tomatillo sauce ($17). Vegan horchatta ($7) makes it a meal. 470 S. Federal Blvd., Denver, tarascosrestaurantdenver.com
Fire on the Mountain
Unlike most chicken joints, Fire on the Mountain well accommodates vegan diners with crispy seitan wings smothered in spicy peanut sauce, raspberry habanero, bourbon chipotle, and other housemade selections. Order a basket of six strips ($15) or a box of 36 pieces ($58.59) for your next barbecue or tailgate party. Fried pickles, onion rings, and more munchies are also served from its Highland and Washington Park outposts. Multiple locations, fotmdenver.com
Odie B’s
One of our favorite local brunch spots offers plant-based versions of its most popular dishes. A dedicated menu stars the Hustler Breakfast Burrito ($14.50) made with soy-based chorizo, a Boujee breakfast sandwich ($14.50) topped with tofu and whipped vegan cheese, and a Happy Lil’ Burgie ($11.50) featuring a smooshed Impossible patty. Some would argue it’s just as good as the original, which ranks among the top burgers in town. Find Odie B’s in RiNo and the Sunnyside neighborhood. 2651 W. 38th Ave., Denver; and 1350 40th St. Suite 180, Denver, odie-bs.com
Sputnik
From weekend brunch to late-night bites, Sputnik serves some of the best vegan fare on South Broadway. Bounce back with its indulgent McLovin breakfast sandwich ($14) made with Impossible sausage or the green chile-smothered Hangover Scramble ($12) featuring your choice of eggs or tofu. If you’re popping into this dive in the wee hours, the Vegan Corn Dog ($6) and jackfruit Cubano sandwich ($17.50) are sure to hit the spot. Cold beer and cocktails round out the menu. 3 S. Broadway, Denver, sputnikdenver.com
Vital Root
Though no longer a vegetarian restaurant, Vital Root continues to serve a nutritious, vegetable-forward menu. Many dishes are influenced by international flavors, like its Bánh Mì Tacos ($14) featuring lemongrass tofu, Falafel Wrap ($16.50) on house-baked naan, and coconut cream-based Tiramisu ($8).
Even better, on weekdays from 3 to 5 p.m., this Berkeley mainstay is one of several local restaurants where kids eat free. An outdoor play area next to its patio further makes this a winner among families. 3915 Tennyson St., Denver, ediblebeats.com
Linger
A sister concept to Vital Root, this rooftop restaurant in LoHi caters to vegetarians with a range of globally-inspired small plates. Order Steamed Bao Buns ($7.50) topped with crispy tofu and tangy toppings like kimchi and koji-pickled cucumbers. Other street food favorites include its Crispy Spring Rolls ($16) made with plant-based “beef,” Korean Grilled Tofu skewers ($15), and Bombay Nachos ($16) featuring taro chips and coriander chutney. Brunch options at Linger are just as impressive. 2030 W. 30th Ave., Denver, ediblebeats.com
Spice Room
Gather a group for a meal at Spice Room, where creamy curries and crispy snacks are best when shared. Many Indian dishes are traditionally plant-based, so the menu offers plenty of options. If you need a starting point, consider the popular choices: Sweet Potato Masala ($18), Aloo Gobi ($19), and Malai Kofta ($19) featuring fried potatoes and paneer cheese. Sop up all the delicious sauces with housemade naan and scoops of basmati rice. Outposts appear in Congress Park, West Highland, and Arvada. Multiple locations, denverspiceroom.com
Blue Sushi Sake Grill
Set near Union Station, this national chain could be easy to miss with downtown’s wide variety of restaurants. But take note, as Blue Sushi dedicates an entire section of its Japanese-inspired menu to vegan dishes. Savor maki rolls like its Spicy Kaluna Crunch ($12.75) made with plant-based tuna, the Eden Roll ($11.75) featuring sweet potato tempura and grilled asparagus, and the Vegan South Pacific ($12) which substitutes eel for barbecued eggplant. Non-sushi options like Tofu Lettuce Wraps ($16) are also available. 1616 16th St., Denver, bluesushisakegrill.com
