The first American diner opened way back in the late 1800s (fun fact: it was based out of a horse-drawn wagon!), but to this day, these eateries—which specialize in quick, inexpensive food—are still symbolic of the US. They may have hit peak popularity in the ’50s, but diners remain prevalent across the country, and some of them are totally vegan.
If you’re in the mood for diner food, check out the list below for some of the best vegan and vegan-friendly diners across the US.
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Is diner food vegan-friendly?
When you think of a stereotypical all-American diner meal, you likely think of three things: beef burgers, fries, and a shake. These are, without a doubt, staple diner menu items. But these days, it is possible to find animal-free options at diners across the US. And that’s not totally surprising when you consider that the general plant-based restaurant offerings are growing.
As long as you know where to look, next time a craving hits, you can treat yourself to veganized versions of diner classics and much more.
The best diners for vegan food in the US
These diners are serving up classic dishes made without animal ingredients.
1 The Chicago Diner
Chicago, IL
The Chicago Diner has been serving up American comfort food—made sans meat—since the 1980s. A vegetarian diner, this Chicago mainstay has a vast array of vegan options. Treat yourself to the Smoked Tofu Club sandwich, which features bacon-style seitan, or the Special Recipe Wings with spicy buffalo sauce. If you’re keeping things fresh and healthy, there’s also a selection of salads, a veggie-packed Thai Basil Stir Fry, or The Soul Bowl, which is loaded with flash-cooked greens, mashed sweet potato, and seasoned quinoa.
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Spiral Diner
2 Spiral Diner & Bakery
Fort Worth, TX
Since 2002, Texans have been able to get their hands on delicious, filling, vegan diner food from Spiral Diner & Bakery. The menu offers a wide range of nachos and build-your-own burgers, which you can make meaty (thanks to the Impossible Burger and Impossible chicken options) or whole food-based, depending on your individual preference.
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Viva Vegan Diner
3 Viva Vegan Diner
Upland, CA
If hamburgers with all the extras, birria tacos, and other Mexican dishes made vegan sound like your dinner dream, you need to get yourself to Viva Vegan Diner. The popular eatery has a seemingly endless menu, so you’ll always be spoiled for choice. Just make sure your wallet is ready because it might become your new addiction.
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Vertical Diner
4 Vertical Diner
Salt Lake City, UT & Portland, OR
Sometimes, you just need breakfast (even if it’s technically dinner time). Luckily, all-day breakfast is another diner staple, and you can find veganized versions at both of Vertical Diner’s locations. Opt for menu items like The Avalanche, which features two pancakes, country potatoes, and tofu scramble, or if you’re extra hungry, add tempeh bacon and sausage to the Sunrise Burrito.
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Swingers Diner
5 Swingers Diner
Los Angeles, CA
While not entirely vegan, Swingers deserves a shout-out on this list for its tasty range of plant-based options. Try the Soyrizo Scramble, for example, with black beans and fresh salsa, or the Vegan Burrito, which is packed with sautéed tofu and veggies.
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Ro’s Diner
6 Ro’s Diner
Brooklyn, NY
Whether you’re after breakfast foods, sandwiches, or curly fries (or a combination of all three), Ro’s Diner in Brooklyn has you covered. It also has a refreshing range of mocktails, including mimosas (ideal for those Sunday brunch dates).
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The Grain Cafe
7 The Grain Cafe
Los Angeles, CA
With five locations spread across Los Angeles, Culver City, Long Beach, Redondo Beach, and Van Nuys, CA, The Grain Cafe is locals’ go-to for diner fare and Mexican bites. For breakfast, enjoy an array of waffles, sweet or savory crêpes, pancakes with all the fixings, and breakfast sandos. For lunch and dinner, choose between grain bowls, sandwiches, pizzas, enchiladas, tacos, burritos, and more. Come with a group to sample the menu’s vast offerings.
The Tasty
8 The Tasty
Philadelphia, PA
There’s a reason this laid-back South Philadelphia diner was voted the Best Vegan Diner in America by VegNews readers. This mainstay is all about the old-school vibes—apart from the fact that it’s totally animal-free. Expect to find options like chik’n and waffles, tofu egg sandwiches, and thick-cut French toast available with lashings of syrup, berries, and whipped cream.
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Angelhearts Diner
9 Angelhearts Diner
Ithaca, NY
There’s no doubt New York City is a great destination for vegan food. But it’s not the only city in New York where you can find great animal-free options. In Ithaca near Cayuga Lake, you can find tasty vegan comfort food at Angelhearts Diner. The all-day breakfast offerings include loaded burritos, Just Egg sandwiches, and much more. Beyond breakfast, Angelhearts’ salads, burgers, loaded fries, smoothies, and shakes are sure to keep you satisfied.
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Silver Diner
10 Silver Diner
Cherry Hill, NJ
This New Jersey diner doesn’t have a dedicated vegan menu. Instead, you’ll find a flexitarian section on the menu, which is for plant-based eaters and people looking to cut down on their meat intake. Indulge in vegan options like the Impossible Meatless Taco Bowl, the Oat Milk Protein Pancakes, and the Just Egg Breakfast Tacos.
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Off the Griddle
11 Off the Griddle
Portland, OR
Portland’s Off the Griddle is dedicated to providing you with “vegan & vegetarian awesomeness.” And here’s the proof: the menu is packed with options like jackfruit brisket sandwiches, vegan sausages, and vegan drumsticks, as well as waffles, brunch dishes, and sandwiches. While eggs and cheese are served at Off The Griddle, these must be requested as extra, as all items are vegan by default.
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The Wayward Vegan
12 The Wayward Vegan
Seattle, WA
In Seattle’s Roosevelt neighborhood, you’ll find The Wayward Vegan. It’s cozy, it’s friendly, and the food is freshly made, and most importantly, delicious. Try options like the Hillbilly Omelet, which comes with hash browns, soyrizo, and country gravy, or indulge in Chiggen & Waffles with butter, maple syrup, and berries.
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4th & State
13 4th & State
Columbus, OH
Situated in downtown Columbus, 4th and State really embraced the traditional diner vibes, so expect an all-American experience when you rock up to indulge in its delicious, and totally vegan, menu. Options include the Americana burger, loaded shoestring fries, and the Statehouse Breakfast (which comes with a choice of pancakes or French toast and two “brunchy sides”).
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Green New American Diner
14 Green New American Diner
Tempe & Phoenix, AZ
Arizona’s Green New American has one key mission: to make vegan comfort food for the masses. And we have to say, it has definitely succeeded. Choose from tasty bites like the Big Easy Cheezy Nachos, Chick’n Nuggs, the Chicago Cheesesteak, and so much more.
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Sealevel City
15 Sealevel City Vegan Diner
Wilmington, NC
This totally vegan diner is a must-visit if you’re in the port city of Wilmington. The menu is extensive (and mouthwatering), but staff and customer favorites include dishes like the Baja Shrimp Tacos, kale nachos with cashew queso, and pesto sandwiches.
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For more on vegan restaurants, read:
Charlotte is a VegNews editor and writer based in sunny Southsea on England’s southern coast.
