Chicago stops to warm you up from the inside out sans-lactose.
by guest writer:
SAMANTHA MILLER | samantharachelmiller.com
No Bones Beach Club
$$ | Wicker Park
No bones no problem. That’s not No Bones Beach Club’s slogan – I just made it up. But it holds true in this iconic stop where they serve hungry Chicagoans a 100% vegan menu. Say hi, grab an order of those tacos, or a bagel and ‘lox’, tropical french toast? Sure, that too. NBBC is a creative vegan mecca that will have you crawling back for more.
Sam’s rec: Beer battered avocado tacos
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Uncommon Ground
$$ | Lakeview + Edgewater
Simple, organic brewery, featuring a menu with plant-based options. This cozy spot with two (!) locations will be your go-to for brunch, coffee, a beer, a spot to read, a late night dinner. Whatever you need it to be, Uncommon Ground can do it.
Sam’s rec: Vegan vegetable hash
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Chicago Diner
$$ | Lakeview + Logan Square
Chicago Diner is known for its meat free options and caters to both vegans and meat-eaters alike. On a cold day, there’s nothing better than stopping in for a drink, a hearty ‘burger’ and a north side Chicago classic diner feel.
Sam’s rec: Cajun black bean burger
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True Food Kitchen
$$ | River North
True Food Kitchen sits in the heart of Chicago’s River North neighborhood boasting its friendly (for you, and the environment) fall 2019 menu. Honorable mentions include: butternut squash soup, vegan butternut squash pizza, cauliflower polenta and an iconic unbeetable burger. C’mon, it speaks for itself.
Sam’s rec: Butternut squash soup
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Chicago House of Za Vegan Pizzeria
$$ | Lakeview
A mom and pop shop in nature, this Chicago native operates like its been making commute-worthy pies for decades. Delectable deep dish options swimming in house-made cashew mozzarella cheeses, buffalo cauliflower poppers to put your neighborhood sports pub’s to shame and an atmosphere that will make you want to spend your whole afternoon at a table for two make this a must-see in your quest for a hearty fall meal.
Sam’s rec: The Michelangelo thin crust pizza
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Pick Me Up Cafe
$ | Lakeview
This eclectic, colorful spot in the heart of Wrigleyville can be your go-to for just about any occasion. Good drinks, better food and great service make this a fun stop for you and the non-vegan friends you drag to brunch.
Sam’s rec: Vegan sloppy joe
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Aba
$$ | Fulton Market
You’ve probably heard Aba has some of the best views in the city. That’s not wrong. But you may not have heard that it has some of the best plant-based food as well. Combine high culinary skill with unmet flavor experiences you just-can’t- replicate-in-your-own-home and you’ll find yourself in the enthralling dining room at Aba.
Sam’s rec: Green falafel
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Sunda
$$$ | River North
As the Chicago chill rolls in, head over to Sunda for a quick weekend trip to Southeast Asia. Japanese fusion classics with a twist make Sunda an experience, not a dinner. Give their green curry squash a shot on a cold November night and while you’re at it, explore their seasonal drink menu for something you’ve never tried.
Sam’s rec: Green curry squash
tags: clean eating, health, healthy, dairy free, plant based, organic