As a vegetarian born and raised in Austin, TX it's been hard to find satisfying vegetarian options. I've seen major improvements in the last few years but I still find myself in BBQ spots with friends where all I have to rely on is sides. As much as I enjoy a good potato salad, it's not enough.
As a side note, while writing this piece, I recently found out that the Steeping Room has closed for good. This has been one of my favorite spots since I was a kid. I truly hope that there is still a chance for it to re-open given they have an online store but I am unsure.
In my search, I didn't consider cheese or tortillas as a factor. The reason why is that I have decided not to count cheese is that I don't want to always be asking for the source. Many cheeses and tortillas are not vegetarian, a fact which I'm not sure many folks know. I only recently found out some makeup is made with animal fat, was a sad realization.
Here are my 10 favorite spots to eat as a vegetarian in Austin.
****Update: Project Pollo was previously on this list but has since sadly closed.
1. Pho Tin (W Anderson Lane)
Although this was a recent find I've eaten here at least 3 times in the last few months. The salt and pepper tofu is AMAZING, It's so crispy, almost reminiscent of fish and chips (without the chips). As a kid, I used to go to a hole in the wall Vietnamese place because my dad and I loved a good vermicelli bowl. I'm happy to say the vegetarian vermicelli bowl is also delicious. Ooh and the buns, both the tofu and eggplant, I'm getting hungry just thinking about it!
2. Velvet Taco (Multiple Locations)
It's basic but it's worth it. My favorite is the Nashville Hot Tofu with a side of Elote. I'm sure many South Asian college students come here for late night munchies a.k.a the chicken and paneer tikka tacos. Oooh and we can't forgot the red curry queso. The food here is HEAVY so come with a hungry belly and be prepared for a post meal nap.
3. Bangers (Rainey Street)
Bangers is known as a great BBQ place for folks in Austin, their sausages are classics. However. they are surprisingly vegetarian-friendly. Yes, that's right you don't have to rely on sides here. They have plenty of vegetarian "sausage" entrees filled with flavor.
4. Maudie's (Multiple Locations)
Part of me is afraid to claim this because everyone here has their own favorite Tex-Mex spot in Austin. Maudie's is personally my favorite. As a vegetarian I feel it offers the most flavor. I think the veggie burrito is one of the best items. The chipotle sauce is significantly spicy though so if you are sensitive I would substitute sauces. Also be careful of chilies always. I've been burned before.
The one thing I don't like about Maudie's is their brunch. I personally didn't enjoy the chilaquiles, which was quite disappointing. I was surprised that the pancakes were amazing though, it was a confusing afternoon.
5. Tacodeli (Multiple Locations)
This is a very basic choice, but too me it's comfort food. Tacodeli has classic tacos and fun drink selections. There's a reason that there's a location in the airport! When I go I personally go for the classic bean & cheese and the Papadulce.
6. Thundercloud (Multiple Locations)
When I'm not in Austin, I crave Thundercloud subs, I think they have the best vegetarian subs. I often get the same thing, the Veggie Delight with cream cheese. However, they have several vegetarian options. I always opt for a combo since they have Miss Vickie's chips and sweet tea.
7. Tatsumi Sushi (W Anderson)
I went here recently with family, and their vegetarian appetizers and sushi are well-though out and flavorful. This is a bit of an expensive spot, but if you can afford the splurge, it's worth it. I really enjoyed the starters, sushi, and the sake! They have a limited time menu, but I think it's a great chance to take chances. Many of the things we ordered were surprisingly wonderful.
8. Revolution Vegan Kitchen (Thicket Food Park South Austin)
When I'm in South Austin, I always want to stop here for lunch. It's not always open though. I'm a big fan of their Al Pastor and Carne Asada tacos. Again it has more of a fake-meat feel so if you don't like that I can't recommend it. They do have jackfruit options if you're comfortable with that!
9. Saffron (Far West)
This is my family's go to place to order South Asian food (I'm Indian btw). I will ask for two orders of the vegetarian momos and the samosa chaat. One for me, and one for everybody else. I also love their Kolonji Paneer Tikka, and I don't even like paneer so that's saying something.
I've had the entrees, and they are also good. If I'm honest though, I prefer to make a meal of the sides here, like Tapas.
10. Bun Belly (Airport Boulevard)
If you have a chance to visit Austin, I suggest checking this area out. They have a lot of other restaurants in this area, as well as an 85 degrees. I love the Grilled Eggplant Bao here and they have plenty of vegetarian entree options!
11. Four Brothers Venezuelan Food (Barton Creek Mall)
I am not typically a person who opts for mall food, a pretzel being the exception. However, when I passed this in the food court, it was too interesting to pass up. I can say confidently it was worth it. The vegan arepa I ordered is still on my mind and I need to go back to the mall soon.
Well we've now reached the end of our list. Please reach out to me if you have any other spots in town you love. I'd love to support local restaurants. We lost a lot of amazing spots due to COVID, and I want to show support for the community.
Ordering too much but struggling to cook an exciting meal. I was on the same boat up until recently. Since then I've been able to make some budget friendly, quick and easy dishes. Learn more about my vegetarian cooking journey here.
12. Nori (Central Austin)
Not only is the menu ENTIRELY plant-based but the drinks are impeccable. I'm not a big creamsicle gal, but the 'coconut creamiscle' cocktail was wonderful. Would highly recommend the nigiri sampler to get a sense of your favorite vibes before committing to one role.
13. La Volta (West End)
So . . . I made the mistake of going here with my family. I say that because this place is definitely date vibes. From the lighting to the cozy seating. Would be ideal to go to Pease Park first and then the restaurant for a cute romantic night.
14. Eldorado (North Shoal Creek)
I'm sure you already have this spot bookmarked but it bears repeating. Much like the last 2, this place is definitely not light on the pocket but the portions are 100% worth it. They have an option for vegans as well which I can say is delicious. Nobody in your friend group will feel like they are missing out here.
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