Dedicated Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurants: A Plant-Based Paradise
Calgary, a city renowned for its vibrant culinary landscape, has seen a significant shift in dining preferences, with an increasing number of residents and visitors embracing vegetarianism and veganism. Whether driven by health concerns, environmental consciousness, or ethical considerations, the demand for plant-based options is undeniably on the rise. For those seeking to explore the vegetarian side of Calgary’s food scene, you’re in for a delightful surprise. From cozy, dedicated vegetarian eateries to mainstream restaurants that thoughtfully cater to plant-based diets, the city boasts a diverse range of choices to satisfy every palate. This guide will take you on a culinary journey, highlighting some of the best vegetarian experiences Calgary has to offer, spanning various cuisines, price points, and neighborhoods.
Heart’s Choices: Vegan Comfort Food
Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Bridgeland, Heart’s Choices has become a Calgary institution for vegan comfort food. From hearty burgers made with plant-based patties to creamy cashew-based mac and cheese, they redefine what vegan food can be. Their menu is a testament to the fact that you don’t need meat or dairy to create satisfying and indulgent meals. Don’t miss their popular chickpea “crab” cakes or their extensive selection of vegan desserts. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed lunch or dinner. Expect to spend around $$ for a satisfying meal. One happy customer raves, “Heart’s Choices proves that vegan food can be incredibly delicious and satisfying. The flavors are spot on, and the portions are generous.”
The Dandelion: A Celebration of Plant-Based Creativity
Nestled in the heart of trendy Ramsay, The Dandelion takes vegetarian cuisine to the next level with its innovative and seasonal menus. They prioritize local and organic ingredients, transforming them into visually stunning and flavor-packed dishes. From delicately crafted salads to artfully presented entrees, every plate is a work of art. They offer a range of options from hearty bowls and sandwiches to decadent desserts like carrot cake and ice cream. The Dandelion is a great option to dine in with friends or alone and expect to spend around $$$ for your meal. A regular customer says, “The Dandelion is always a joy to visit, the menu changes with the seasons and the atmosphere is inviting.”
Veggie Vietnam: A Taste of Southeast Asia, Plant-Based Style
For a quick and flavorful vegetarian fix, look no further than Veggie Vietnam. This unassuming eatery offers a wide array of authentic Vietnamese dishes made entirely with plant-based ingredients. From fragrant pho and flavorful spring rolls to hearty noodle bowls, their menu is a celebration of Vietnamese cuisine, vegetarian style. Their tofu and vegetable stir-fries are particularly popular, as is their refreshing vegan bubble tea. It’s an affordable and convenient option for a quick lunch or dinner. This is a budget-friendly option and expect to pay $. “So good that I often forget its vegan” A fan says on their review online.
Vegetarian-Friendly Restaurants: Options for Everyone
While dedicated vegetarian restaurants are a delight, it’s also comforting to know that many mainstream restaurants in Calgary are becoming increasingly accommodating to vegetarian diners. These establishments often feature clearly marked vegetarian options on their menus, or are willing to modify existing dishes to suit plant-based preferences, ensuring that everyone at the table can enjoy a satisfying meal.
Ten Foot Henry: Fresh and Flavorful Vegetarian Options
Located in Victoria Park, Ten Foot Henry is renowned for its commitment to fresh, seasonal ingredients and its vibrant, shareable plates. While not exclusively vegetarian, they offer a selection of vegetarian dishes that are anything but an afterthought. Their roasted vegetable salads, creative pasta dishes, and flavorful appetizers are sure to please even the most discerning vegetarian. It’s a great choice for mixed groups, as their menu also caters to meat-eaters. Expect to spend around $$$ for a meal. “Everything I have tried from Ten Foot Henry has always been delicious” A commentor says.
Native Tongues Taqueria: Authentic Mexican with Vegetarian Flair
While you might not immediately associate Mexican food with vegetarianism, Native Tongues Taqueria in Victoria Park offers a surprisingly diverse range of plant-based options. Their vegetarian tacos, filled with grilled vegetables, black beans, and flavorful salsas, are a must-try. They also offer vegetarian quesadillas, enchiladas, and sides like grilled corn and guacamole. It’s a fun and festive option for a casual dinner with friends. Expect to spend around $$ for your meal. A big fan says “Their vegetarian tacos always hit the spot”.
Village Ice Cream: A Sweet Treat for Everyone
Okay, technically this is an ice cream shop, but Village Ice Cream provides a space for some of Calgary’s best ice cream and vegan sorbet options. Each month they alternate between different flavors that are friendly for plant based diets. Located in various locations around the city, this ice cream shop provides for all sorts of people.
Vegetarian-Friendly Cuisine Types in Calgary
Certain cuisine types naturally lend themselves to vegetarian dishes, making them reliable choices for plant-based diners. Calgary boasts a diverse culinary scene, so you can easily find vegetarian-friendly options across various cuisines.
Indian: A Vegetarian Paradise
Indian cuisine is a treasure trove of vegetarian delights, with a vast array of dal (lentil stews), curries, and vegetable dishes to choose from. Many Indian restaurants in Calgary offer extensive vegetarian menus, featuring dishes like palak paneer (spinach and cheese), chana masala (chickpea curry), and vegetable biryani. For an authentic and flavorful experience, try Madras Cafe in the north east quadrant of Calgary.
Italian: Beyond the Meatballs
While Italian cuisine is often associated with meat-heavy dishes, there are plenty of vegetarian options to be found. From classic pasta dishes like marinara and pesto to wood-fired pizzas with vegetable toppings, Italian restaurants can be surprisingly accommodating to vegetarian diners. Look for restaurants that offer homemade pasta and fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Ethiopian: A Unique and Flavorful Vegetarian Experience
Ethiopian cuisine is naturally vegetarian-friendly, with many traditional dishes featuring lentils, vegetables, and spices served on injera (a spongy flatbread). Ethiopian restaurants offer a unique and flavorful dining experience that’s perfect for vegetarians. Many Ethiopian restaurants in Calgary offer vegetarian combo platters, allowing you to sample a variety of different dishes.
East Asian: A World of Flavor
East Asian cuisines, particularly Chinese, Japanese, and Korean, offer an array of vegetarian options. From vegetable stir-fries and tofu dishes to vegetarian sushi rolls and noodle soups, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Look for restaurants that use fresh, high-quality ingredients and offer a variety of vegetarian sauces.
Tips for Finding Vegetarian Food in Calgary
With so many options to choose from, finding vegetarian food in Calgary can be an exciting adventure. Here are a few tips to help you navigate the city’s plant-based culinary scene:
Utilize Online Resources
Restaurant review sites and apps like Yelp, Google Maps, and HappyCow are invaluable tools for finding vegetarian restaurants and dishes. Search for keywords like “vegetarian,” “vegan,” “plant-based,” and “vegetarian Calgary” to narrow down your search. Look for local Calgary blogs or websites that focus specifically on vegetarian or vegan food.
Don’t Hesitate to Ask Questions
When in doubt, call restaurants ahead of time to inquire about their vegetarian options. Ask if they have a vegetarian menu or if they can modify existing dishes to suit your preferences. Many restaurants are happy to accommodate special requests.
Pay Attention to Menu Symbols
Many restaurants now use symbols like “V” or “VG” to indicate vegetarian and vegan options on their menus. Keep an eye out for these symbols to quickly identify plant-based dishes.
The Future of Vegetarian Calgary
Calgary’s vegetarian food scene is thriving, with a growing number of restaurants and chefs embracing plant-based cuisine. Whether you’re a long-time vegetarian or simply curious about exploring the world of plant-based food, Calgary offers a diverse and delicious range of options to satisfy every palate. Don’t be afraid to venture out, try new restaurants, and discover your favorite vegetarian hidden gems. The future of food is plant-based, and Calgary is at the forefront of this culinary revolution. So, go ahead, explore, and enjoy the delicious and diverse world of vegetarian food in Calgary!
