Christiane BeyaWhat’s tasty? Plant-based? And easily accessible if you live in the city? If you guessed vegan restaurants then you are correct and deserve a round of applause.
Some of us may recall a time where options for vegan cuisines were few and far between, but lately there has been an explosion of plant-based dishes and we don’t mean to brag but Toronto is the source to various options of cruelty-free dining.
Regardless of whether you are a dedicated vegan or not, delicious food holds no boundaries and Canada’s biggest city has restaurants that will satisfy your light or hearty cravings.
For those of you who are already accustomed to the vegan lifestyle here are more dine-out options to add to your on-going list, and those who are a bit skeptical – these restaurants prove that veganism is beyond simply eating fruits and vegetables.
Doomies
Located at 1263 Queen St. W. Doomies has an impressive menu that will have you coming back for their filling and savory meals.
The plant-based restaurant is loaded with comfort foods from their signature burger The Big D ($16) to BBQ pork taco’s ($12), and fried mac ‘n’ cheese balls ($10).
With no salad or rice bowl in sight, this establishment takes a step back from veganism’s association to clean eating by adding a greasy, spicy, saucy and cheesy spin on how plant-based foods are prepared.
If you have not fully indulged in vegan dishes, we totally recommended this flavourful restaurant for any first timers.
Planta
Planta is one of Yorkville’s finest vegan restaurants where posh meets plants in the most stylishly hip interior.
Under chef David Lee, the Bay and Bloor St. W. cuisine is inspired by many parts of the world and champions environmental sustainability (the resto is strict about not using any animal products).
Their upscale full-service plant-based dining menu serves astonishing dishes such as spinach and coconut milk “crab” cakes ($22.50), potato and cashew mozzarella calzone ($21.50), and carrot tartare ($17.50).
Hog-Town Vegan
Known for its meat-free, dairy and egg free meals, The Hogtown Vegan serves a selection of southern-style comfort food.
With two locations surrounding the downtown core, this vegan restaurant has customers wanting more of their mouth-watering and playfully enticing menu.
Their choice of appetizers tells you exactly how well rounded a potato can be, from poutines ($7), chili cheese fries ($9.50), and fries topped with nacho cheese sauce and fakin’ bits ($8), there are endless vegan techniques to jazzing up this starchy crop.
While you are at The Hogtown Vegan we would also recommend trying their Unchicken and Waffle signature dish and do not forget to leave some room for dessert – their deep fried oreos will tie your entire meal together.
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