13 Plant-Based Restaurants In Colorado That Even Meat Lovers Can’t Resist
Colorado’s dining scene is evolving beyond its steak-and-potato reputation with plant-based restaurants that are changing minds one bite at a time.
These innovative eateries create dishes so satisfying and flavorful that committed carnivores find themselves returning for more.
From Denver’s urban hotspots to hidden gems along the Front Range, these plant-based restaurants prove that veggies can be the star of any meal.
1. Somebody People (RiNo, Denver)
Mediterranean magic happens daily at this RiNo hotspot where vegetables take center stage without apology. The zucchini-feta fritters crackle with flavor that would convert even the most dedicated carnivore.
Their “Fable” sausage orecchiette delivers that satisfying chew meat-eaters crave, while colorful, seasonal produce brightens every plate.
The intimate, azure-tiled space feels like dining in a cool friend’s kitchen—if that friend happened to be a vegetable-whispering culinary genius.
2. Vital Root (Tennyson, Denver)
Fast-casual doesn’t mean flavor compromise at this Tennyson Street gem. The veggie “wings” here have meat-eaters doing double-takes—crispy, saucy, and utterly craveable without a chicken in sight.
Banh mi tacos fuse Vietnamese and Mexican influences in a hand-held package that explodes with bright herbs and satisfying textures.
Chef Justin Cucci’s commitment to organic ingredients shines through in colorful Sambar bowls that leave you feeling energized rather than weighed down.
3. Watercourse Foods (17th Ave, Denver)
Denver’s OG vegan restaurant has been winning hearts since 1998. Their scratch kitchen transforms comfort classics into plant-powered masterpieces that satisfy on a soul level.
I still remember my skeptical brother-in-law’s face when he bit into their Southern-fried cauliflower—shock, followed by pure joy. The mac & cheese achieves the impossible: creamy, stretchy perfection without a drop of dairy.
Their milkshakes bring everyone to the yard: vegans, vegetarians, and curious carnivores alike.
4. Meta Burger (Multiple Denver Locations)
Burger joints are battlegrounds where plant-based options often fall short—not here. Meta Burger’s patties achieve that elusive balance: substantial enough to satisfy a burger craving without trying to be a science experiment.
Their mozzarella sticks pull apart with that Instagram-worthy cheese stretch that defies plant-based physics.
The secret? They’re not trying to convert anyone. They just make darn good food that happens to be completely plant-based, and your taste buds won’t know the difference.
5. The Corner Beet (Highland, Denver)
Sunshine streams through windows at this charming Highland cafe where health food never feels like punishment. Their customizable Banh mi sandwiches pack a flavor punch that makes meat an afterthought.
Last summer, I brought my carnivore dad here on a whim. Three avocado toasts later, he was plotting our next visit! The substantial salads here aren’t sad desk lunches but vibrant meals built on greens that taste like they were picked that morning.
Cold-pressed juices add liquid sunshine to complete the experience.
6. Bang Up to the Elephant (Ballpark, Denver)
Caribbean flavors explode in this whimsical space where plant-based eating feels like a tropical vacation. Jerk edamame delivers such a perfect spice kick you’ll forget traditional wings ever existed.
The fry bread Cubano achieves the impossible, capturing the essence of Cuba’s favorite sandwich without a hint of pork. Curried mofongo showcases plantains in their full glory, creating a dish so satisfying you won’t miss meat for a second.
The riot of colors in both the food and decor creates pure joy on a plate.
7. Root Down (LoHi, Denver)
Housed in a converted gas station, this LoHi institution proves that vegetables deserve the fine dining treatment. Part of the acclaimed Edible Beats restaurant group, Root Down elevates plant-based eating beyond hippie fare into sophisticated culinary territory.
The carrot Thai curry changes minds about what vegetables can do when treated with respect. I’ve witnessed the most dedicated steak lovers fall silent with appreciation here.
Their commitment to local sourcing means seasonal vegetables arrive at your table bursting with flavor that no meat could overshadow.
8. City O’ City (Downtown Denver)
Punk rock attitude meets comfort food brilliance at this Capitol Hill institution. The waffle with chicken-fried cauliflower has sparked religious experiences among dedicated meat-eaters who swear they’ve been tricked.
Late-night pizza cravings find perfect satisfaction in their creative pies topped with unexpected plant-based combinations. Morning glory muffins power Denver’s creative class through early meetings.
The eclectic crowd, from politicians to artists to hungover college students, proves plant-based eating transcends all demographics when it tastes this good.
9. Gladys (Edgewater, near Denver)
Vegetables receive star treatment at this intimate Edgewater gem where seasonal small plates showcase produce at its peak. The menu changes with what’s fresh, but the constant is mind-bending flavor that makes carnivores forget they’re eating “just vegetables.”
Wood-fired techniques add smoky depth while fermentation brings unexpected complexity. My meat-loving cousin still talks about the charred cabbage with miso butter she had here two years ago!
The thoughtful wine list features natural selections that complement rather than overpower the delicate flavors on each artistic plate.
10. Native Foods Café (Various Colorado Locations)
Pioneer power drives this plant-based chain that’s been converting skeptics since 1994. Their “Chicken” Run Ranch burger delivers that fast-food satisfaction without the drive-thru guilt—juicy, messy, and utterly craveable.
Buddha bowls brimming with global flavors make healthy eating exciting rather than obligatory. The Oklahoma Bacon Cheeseburger has fooled many a meat-eater with its smoky, savory profile.
Fast-casual convenience meets scratch cooking in a combination that proves plant-based eating can be both quick and delicious.
11. Next Level Burger (Denver)
Oregon’s plant-based burger sensation landed in Denver in 2022, bringing West Coast innovation to hungry Coloradans. Their soy-based patties achieve that elusive umami satisfaction that makes meat-eaters do a double-take with each bite.
Creamy milkshakes made with coconut milk deliver childhood nostalgia without dairy. The crispy fries, available in regular, sweet potato, or colossal versions, could convert anyone to plant-based eating.
The sustainable focus extends beyond the menu to compostable packaging, making feel-good food that actually does good.
12. Fellow Traveler (Englewood)
Cocktails meet compassion at this stylish Englewood spot where plant-based eating feels like a sophisticated adventure rather than a restriction. The mushroom “calamari” fools the eyes and delights the palate with its tender-crisp texture and umami depth.
Craft cocktails featuring housemade botanical infusions complement the vegetable-forward menu perfectly. I brought my steak-loving father here last Christmas, and he’s still raving about the king trumpet mushroom “scallops.”
The intimate space encourages lingering conversations over shared plates that disappear quickly despite generous portions.
13. Leaf Vegetarian Restaurant (Boulder)
Boulder’s plant-based pioneer creates sophisticated dishes that would impress at any fine dining establishment, meat-centric or otherwise. The Jamaica flower tacos burst with tropical flavors and contrasting textures that make meat seem completely unnecessary.
Their seitan piccata achieves that satisfying chew alongside bright lemon-caper sauce that carnivores recognize and appreciate. The peaceful dining room with mountain views provides the perfect backdrop for meat-eaters to have their vegetable epiphanies.
Farm-to-table isn’t just a buzzword here—it’s evident in every vibrant, flavorful bite.