New Orleans is a city famous for its delicious dishes, like andouille gumbo, crawfish and fresh oysters. That being said, many of the dishes offered in New Orleans tend to include some type of meat or animal product. Plant-based restaurants are becoming essential, as 9.7 million Americans identify as vegan. There has been an influx of new restaurants that offer amazing, vegan alternatives, helping to make the New Orleans food scene more inclusive.

A favorite of Tulane students is Breads on Oak, which is only about a mile away from campus. The restaurant offers two outdoor courtyards, streetside tables and indoor seating. Popular items include the pumpkin cheddar biscuit sandwich, peanut butter blondies, and the Big Daddy burger, made with a veggie patty. Most items are under $12, which makes Breads on Oak a tempting option for college students on a budget. Student Caroline Bradkin, whose favorite items include the breakfast sandwich and pastries, said “so many people swiped up on my pictures and asked me where my food was from without knowing it was vegan! That is definitely a testament to the quality of Breads on Oak.”

Another standout restaurant with vegan options is True Food Kitchen. Located in the Warehouse District, True Food Kitchen’s long, green booths and warm, welcoming aesthetic will make you feel like you’re dining in the jungle. While True Food Kitchen does offer some meat options, the menu caters to vegan and vegetarian diners. Enjoy butternut squash pizza with a craft cocktail, or follow up a Korean noodle bowl with a piece of flourless chocolate cake. True Food Kitchen is sure to impress all who dine there. 

Kindred is regarded as a vegan junk food palace. Serving “plant-based comfort food,” Kindred may be one of the only restaurants in New Orleans offering vegan fried chicken sandwiches, po’boys, and meatball subs. The buffalo cauliflower mac and cheese is a fan favorite among diners. Kindred also offers a variety of cocktails and yummy sides that will complement your main dish. 

Other vegan-inclusive restaurants that are highly praised include Seed, Vegan Wit A Twist, Max Well and Carmo.