10 Ideal Places For Vegans And Vegetarians In North Carolina
North Carolina might be known for barbecue, but its plant-based food scene is blooming like a summer garden. From mountain towns to coastal gems, vegan and vegetarian restaurants are popping up across the state with creative, crave-worthy dishes.
I’ve spent years exploring these green-eating havens and compiled my absolute favorites for when you’re craving compassionate cuisine in the Tar Heel State.
1. Plant – Asheville’s Upscale Vegan Experience
Tucked in downtown Asheville, Plant elevates vegan cuisine to art form status. Their cheese plate, completely dairy-free, fooled even my skeptical meat-eating brother!
The intimate space buzzes with conversation while chefs transform local ingredients into dishes like the umami-rich mushroom steak.
Reservations are essential at this nationally acclaimed spot, where even Food & Wine magazine has sung its praises.
2. Green Sage Café – Asheville’s Eco-Friendly Breakfast Haven
Morning sunshine streams through the windows of Green Sage, where sustainability isn’t just a buzzword. It’s built into everything from the solar panels to the compostable packaging.
Their breakfast burrito, stuffed with scrambled tofu and house-made salsa, powers me through mountain hikes.
The café sources ingredients from local farms, creating colorful smoothie bowls that taste like summer in a dish.
3. Lulu’s On Main – Sylva’s Long-Standing Vegetarian Treasure
Nestled in the charming mountain town of Sylva, Lulu’s has been dishing up vegetarian delights since 1989.
The eclectic interior, adorned with local art, feels like dining in a cool friend’s living room. I still dream about their Thai peanut tofu, perfectly crispy outside, cloud-soft inside.
Last summer, the owner recognized me from five years earlier and remembered my order exactly!
4. Rooted on King – Boone’s Yoga Studio Café Combo
After downward dog, yogis flock to the attached café for plant-powered fuel. The Buddha Bowl—a rainbow of roasted vegetables, quinoa, and house-made tahini dressing—satisfies without weighing you down.
Floor-to-ceiling windows frame mountain views while you sip their signature lavender matcha latte. The peaceful energy here matches the thoughtfully prepared food, making it my favorite post-hike refueling station.
5. Oh My Soul – Charlotte’s South African-Inspired Vegan Joint
Vibrant murals and outdoor string lights create the perfect backdrop for Oh My Soul’s South African-inspired vegan comfort food.
Their Bunny Chow, a hollowed bread loaf filled with curry, transports taste buds straight to Cape Town. The NoDa neighborhood location buzzes with energy, especially during weekend brunch.
Don’t miss their malva pudding for dessert, a sweet ending that’s converted many dessert skeptics.
6. Mike’s Vegan Grill – Greensboro’s Plant-Based Fast Food Revolution
When the craving for fast food hits, but you’re keeping it plant-based, Mike’s Vegan Grill delivers guilt-free indulgence.
Their double cheeseburger, complete with special sauce and impossible patties, had me checking twice to make sure it was actually vegan! I’ve literally followed their food truck across town just for those crispy, seasoned fries.
The brick-and-mortar location offers expanded options, including mind-blowing milkshakes.
7. Banu Vegan – Durham’s Latin-Southern Fusion Takeout
Hidden in Durham’s food scene, Banu Vegan’s tiny takeout window serves massive flavors.
Their jackfruit po’boy, dressed with remoulade on a crusty baguette, brilliantly bridges Latin and Southern cuisines. The family-run operation infuses love into every dish, from empanadas to collard greens.
Pro tip: order their tres leches cake in advance—it sells out faster than concert tickets for a hometown band.
8. Sealevel City Vegan Diner – Wilmington’s Retro Plant-Based Comfort
Chrome accents and vinyl booths set the stage for Sealevel’s vegan spin on classic diner fare.
The Philly cheesesteak—featuring seitan, peppers, and gooey cashew cheese—rivals anything I’ve had in Philadelphia. Beach-goers flock here for post-swim sustenance, creating a lively atmosphere.
The owners remember regulars by name and order, making this coastal gem feel like the “Cheers” of vegan diners.
9. The Veggie Wagon – Carolina Beach’s Local Produce Paradise
Part market, part café, The Veggie Wagon celebrates North Carolina’s bounty in every bite. Their grab-and-go section saved my beach picnic with rainbow wraps packed with local vegetables and house-made hummus.
The famous pumpkin pie milkshake, a true seasonal treasure, once had me driving two hours just for a taste!
Local farmers deliver produce daily, ensuring everything from their sandwiches to salads bursts with freshness.
10. Roots & Leaves – Outer Banks’ Beachside Vegan Food Truck
Parked near Avon’s sandy shores, this cheerful turquoise food truck serves vacation-worthy treats without animal products.
Their cinnamon rolls—massive, gooey, and perfect with oat milk coffee—have become my non-negotiable Outer Banks morning ritual.
The husband-wife team rises before dawn to prepare fresh doughnuts in flavors like blueberry-lavender. Sand between your toes is welcome at this casual beachside gem.