Best Vegetarian & Vegan Restaurants in New Orleans
Looking for vegetarian and vegan options in New Orleans? Here are 9 spots where plants are the point.
By DineGuides Team·Updated July 2026
Plant based dining in New Orleans has moved well past the token salad. 9 vegetarian and vegan restaurants made the cut. The selection ranges from fully vegan kitchens to restaurants where plant based cooking is the main draw, spanning Ethiopian and bakery/cafe.
New Orleans Vegetarian & Vegan Cheat Sheet & Local Logistics+
How do vegetarian and vegan options fit into New Orleans' Cajun and Creole food culture?
New Orleans' signature cuisines—Cajun and Creole—center heavily on seafood, meat, and animal fats, making vegetarian and vegan dining historically uncommon in traditional restaurants. However, the city has developed a growing number of spots that either adapt classical techniques to plant-based ingredients or offer cuisines (Colombian, Nigerian, fusion) where vegetarian and vegan dishes are central to the menu rather than afterthoughts. Understanding which neighborhoods and cuisine types will have the strongest options helps avoid limited menus at places built around meat-centric cooking.
Which neighborhoods cluster the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants, and how do they connect by transit?
The Mid-City and Saint Roch areas have the highest concentration of vegetarian-friendly spots, while the Garden District and Central Business District also have notable options. These neighborhoods are accessible by the RTA bus system, though service frequency and routes vary by area—checking real-time bus apps before traveling helps avoid long waits, particularly in the evening. Rideshare is widely available across all neighborhoods if transit schedules don't align with your dining time.
Are there particular times of year when vegetarian and vegan restaurant availability changes in New Orleans?
Mardi Gras season (late January through Fat Tuesday) and major holidays can affect restaurant hours and staffing, and some establishments may have limited menus during these periods due to tourism surges or staff scheduling. Summer months (June–August) can see reduced hours at certain locations due to heat and seasonal staffing changes. Checking ahead during major festivals or holidays ensures the restaurant you plan to visit will be open with their standard menu available.
This New Orleans spot is a testament to how vibrant vegan soul food can be, with dishes like the spicy chicken po'boy and shrimp and grits earning enthusiastic celebrate. The owner's personal touch and willingness to go the extra mile, even delivering food herself, makes every order feel like a warm, home-cooked meal.
🍽️95Food
💰85Value
📍60Location
💬
“I had Vegan Chik'n & Grits and the flavor and taste was wonderful! I thoroughly enjoyed it.”
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“The portion sizes are big. The staff was amazing in assisting me with my order details.”
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“The food was amazing! Reasonably priced, Seasoned to perfection, and packaged beautifully!”
Kelly's NOLA serves up seriously craveable smashburgers with a genuine neighborhood charm. The kitchen excels with creative fry options and a growing menu that already includes excellent vegan choices. It's a welcoming spot that feels like a true local hangout.
This Magazine Street spot offers a warm introduction to Ethiopian cuisine, with generous portions of flavorful, colorful dishes served family-style. It's a casual, welcoming atmosphere perfect for sharing a meal, whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned fan.
🍽️95Food
💰88Value
✨80Vibe
🛡️70Safety
💬
“Different server. Never fully understand what should be on the plate”
This New Orleans bakery is a haven for vegan and vegetarian diners, offering a wide array of baked goods and savory dishes. It's a welcoming spot for families, dates, and solo visitors alike, with a casual vibe and friendly staff. The commitment to fresh, flavorful food makes it a standout, even for non-vegans.
🍽️95Food
💰80Value
✨90Vibe
⏰75Wait
💬
“Ample parking and no traffic or road hazards to access”
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“Friendly staff, though sometimes the music is annoying”
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“A little expensive. Expect to spent 15$ a person”
Ideal for
Vegans seeking high-quality diningBreakfast and brunch loversArtisanal bread and pastry enthusiasts
This neighborhood pizza joint is a go-to for its extensive menu, catering to various dietary needs with excellent vegan and gluten-free options. It fosters a lively, casual atmosphere perfect for groups, dates, and families, complete with a full bar and dog-friendly patio.
🍽️92Food
💰85Value
✨90Vibe
⏰70Wait
💬
“We come here often and the food is always delicious”
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“They keep the place clean and with trendy decor”
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“You might be waiting for your order a little while”
Ideal for
Families with dietary restrictions (gluten-free, vegan options)Pizza lovers seeking creative, quality piesCasual neighborhood dining and date nights
This French Quarter spot offers a dizzying array of empanadas, blending Latin American tradition with New Orleans flavors like gumbo and crawfish etouffee. It's a perfect, casual stop for a quick bite, with many vegetarian and vegan options available.
🍽️90Food
💰88Value
🔊65Noise
💬
“Great spot to grab a quick eat! I actually tried the bacon and egg empanada for breakfast and it was amazing.”
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“These are worth trying. Saw this place on TikTok and decided to give them a go. So delicious.”
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“Whoever greeted us, we were always greeted with a smile and kindness. Plus, the various empanadas were excellent.”
Espíritu is a vibrant mezcalería that brings a taste of Mexico to New Orleans with a focus on fresh, gluten-free dishes and creative cocktails. It's a cozy, plant-filled spot that feels both intimate and lively, perfect for a casual night out or a special occasion.
🍽️90Food
💰75Value
✨96Vibe
⏰70Wait
💬
“Plant-filled space is the best thing to happen”
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“Quiet & cute Mexican restaurant”
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“Staff all were super nice, easy and willing”
Ideal for
Gluten-free and celiac dinersMezcal and cocktail enthusiastsVegetarian/vegan dinersIntimate date nights or small groups
This Canal Street spot offers a refreshing take on banh mi with a focus on fresh ingredients and creative vegetarian options. It's a casual, welcoming cafe perfect for a quick solo lunch or a relaxed study session.
🍽️85Food
💰75Value
✨70Vibe
💬
“I used to think I didn't like Bahn Mi but all of the places just didn't so it justice. THIS place does it really well.”
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“Tucked away on the ground floor of the New Orleans BioInnovation Center, this unassuming banh mi and bubble tea shop stands out for its fresh ingredients and well-crafted sandwiches.”
💬
“For the price and location I thought the Bahn Mi's were gonna be small so I ordered 2 lol”
This French Market stall is a go-to for those seeking authentic Spanish flavors, particularly its celebrated muffuletta. It's a casual spot that shines with its accommodating options for gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan diets.
🍽️90Food
💰70Value
✨75Vibe
👋60Service
💬
“Loooooooong wait for a mid grade sandwich … I would recommend elsewhere.”
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“I was surprised that the vegan muffuletta didn't have fake meat in it, but it was actually delicious.”
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“It was once upon a time my go-to muffaletta spot. Sorry to say the muffuletta I purchased yesterday was a sad excuse for a muffaletta.”
Ideal for
Gluten-free dinersVegetarian and vegan optionsCasual market bites
