Whether you have long-time cuisine commitments or are just looking to accommodate the preferences of your friends and family, you'll be glad to discover that Greater Phoenix's vegetarian offerings are blossoming on pace with the rest of the city's cuisine scene (which is quite rapid these days).

While there are many restaurants designated as vegan or gluten-free, this city’s best vegetarian eats blend seamlessly into the restaurant landscape. So, we’re here to help you navigate the tastiest spots for meat-free dining with this guide to our new favorites as well as old faithfuls throughout Greater Phoenix.

 

Editor’s Note: While many of the following restaurants offer exceptional vegan selections, we have classified them as vegetarian due to the presence of meat, dairy and/or eggs in these kitchens. For our list of the best vegan-only restaurants, click here. 

 

Multiple Locations

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Multiple Locations

 

Cornish Pasty Co. 

Cornish Pasty Co. serves up dishes inspired by the lunches of miners in Cornwall, England. At these restaurants, vegetarian and vegan pasties (pronounced PASS-TEE) make up one-third of the menu and include such favorites as chicken tikka masala, veggie cottage pie (both featuring Quorn chicken), eggplant parmesan and balsamic portobello.  For vegans, just ask for the rotating selections. You can't go wrong with an order of Scotch Eggs either. Open until midnight Monday through Thursday and until 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday makes these comfort food faves easily accessible, too. 

7 W. Monroe St., Phoenix
602-374-8500

960 W. University Drive, Tempe
480-894-6261 

425 S. Mill Ave., #111, Tempe
480-629-4726 

3800 N. Goldwater Blvd., Scottsdale
480-845-1220 

1941 W. Guadalupe Road, Mesa
480-838-3586 

 

Flower Child 

Peace, love and farm-fresh food, including vegan, paleo and gluten-free options, is the theme at this flower-power joint with an enlightened menu of bowls, grains, greens and wraps. The options are vast, so we recommend the “3 vegetarian sides” option for sharing (or just for yourself). To truly reach nirvana, though, you should definitely add a lemonade, kombucha, organic wine or beer to your serving of good vibes here.

100 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix 
480-212-0180 

5013 N. 44th St., Phoenix 
602-429-6222 

21001 N. Tatum Blvd., #16-1000, Phoenix 
480-397-5056 

10460 N. 90th St., Scottsdale 
480-240-4400 

149 S. Farmer Ave., Tempe
623-250-6003

 

Halal Guys 

Listen, if hummus and falafel are involved, we're in. Sometimes it's that simple. But Halal Guys takes this selection of platters and gyros to the next level with meat replacements (pea protein). These items do fall on under the "limited time only" section of the website, so be sure to call ahead to your specific location to confirm (and maybe make it known that we'd like these options to stick around). Of course, you'll also find such classics as baba ghanoush and baklava on the menu, too. 

1015 S. Rural Road, 104, Tempe
480-275-7502 

1818 W. Montebello Ave., 102, Phoenix
602-973-1651 

10277 W. McDowell Road., Suite 100, Avondale
623-233-5244 

 

La Santisima Gourmet Taco Shop 

We talk a lot about tacos — different styles, techniques, influences and ingredients. When it comes to La Santisima, it is the innovative approach to showcasing veggies as the headliner on these tortillas that sets them apart. Choose from cauliflower asada, cauliflower al pastor, roasted poblanos, mesquite grilled cactus and mushrooms to complement black and pinto beans, fresh produce and Oaxacan cheese for the ultimate vegetarian, vegan (skip the cheese) or gluten-free (as indicated) feast. The wide variety of self-serve, fresh salsas only make these veggies more delicious — so do the margaritas. 

4117 N. 16th St., Phoenix
602-254-6330 

5932 W. Glendale Ave., Glendale
623-939-3292 

 

Snooze A.M. Eatery

For those of you who are particular about your brunch eats (or find yourself dining with those who are), Snooze is a crowd pleaser. The plant power section of the menu highlights signature vegetarian offerings, but you'll find meat-free deliciousness throughout. Try Juan's Breakfast Tacos with tofu and avocado. Pro tip: Snooze is awesome at making substitutions — just ask. 

Downtown Phoenix: 800 N. Central Ave., #3, Phoenix 
602-675-995 

Town & Country: 2045 E. Camelback Road, A17, Phoenix
480-725-8000 

Ahwatukee: 4901 E. Ray Road, #120, Phoenix
480-893-7638 

Tempe: 615 S. College Ave., Suite 103 & 104, Tempe
480-355-1934 

Gilbert: 310 N. Gilbert Road, Gilbert
480-664-4488

Scottsdale: 8612 E. Shea Blvd., Suite 105 & 110, Scottsdale
480-581-7800 

Kierland: 15054 N. Scottsdale Road, #110 D1B, Scottsdale
480-664-3133 

 

True Food Kitchen 

Founded by wellness celebrity Dr. Andrew Weil, True Food Kitchen features seasonal menus focused on fresh, local ingredients — many of which come from nearby organic farms. Start things off with a refreshing juice, tea or craft cocktail, and dig into the menu, which offers a variety of tasty vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free creations. Favorites include all the starters (you read that right) as well as the roasted squash and ricotta panini and the butternut squash pizza.

2502 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix
602-774-3488 

15191 N Scottsdale Road, #101, Scottsdale
480-265-4500 

 

The Clever Koi 

Inspired by foods from such Asian locales as Thailand, Vietnam, China and Korea, Clever Koi celebrates cuisine and culture with a dynamic menu that appeals to all the senses. Take a tour, from roasted corn dumplings and kimchi cauliflower steam buns to house pad thai and vegan/vegetarian ramen options. Complete your dining experience with a cocktail, sake, beer or wine that pairs perfectly with the fusion menu. 

4236 N. Central Ave., Phoenix
602-222-3474 

60 W. Vaughn Ave., #101, Gilbert
480-306-4237 

 

Tocaya Organica

While this modern Mexican menu originated in California, it's quickly winning over diners with its four "fresh-casual" locations in Greater Phoenix. Here, it's as simple as build your own salads, tacos, burritos, bowls and quesadillas — but with plenty of decadent options for vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diners. The margaritas and the ambiance aren't too shabby either. 

2525 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix 
480-378-3910 

4712 N. Goldwater Blvd., Suite 1210, Scottsdale
480-681-4100 

7012 E. Greenway Parkway, #100, Scottsdale 
480-676-3469 

702 S. Forest Ave., Suite 103, Tempe
480-573-6400 

 

Udupi Indian Vegetarian & Vegan Cuisine 

Home to a wide variety of authentic, gourmet Southern Indian dishes, Udupi may actually be best-known for its fresh lunch buffet. And rightly so — who wouldn't welcome a meal of bottomless, vegetarian house specialties. While many of the dishes here are vegan, anyone looking to avoid dairy should skip a few selections with cheese (paneer), cream or yogurt (korma) and butter. If you miss the buffet, you're still in good hands. House favorites include gobi manchurian, cauliflower sautéed with garlic, ginger, chili and soy sauce; channa batura, large, puffy bread served with chickpea curry; and dosas, rice and lentil crepes served with sambar and chutney. 

1636 N. Scottsdale Road, Tempe 
480-994-8787 

7127 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale 
480-994-8787

 

Phoenix

 

Chantico 

Open since fall 2020, this restaurant draws on the abundance, sophistication and diversity of Mexican cuisine. Vegetarians rejoice: The blend of old and new and culinary traditions focuses on local, healthy and organic. Ingredients from local farms, as well as specific region of Mexico, yield such delights as sweet potato enchiladas, tacos with avocado tempura, squash flautas and green chili cauliflower quesadillas and nachos.

1051 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix
602-699-3015

 

Crescent Ballroom 

Best known for hosting local and touring musical acts in its intimate, live venue space, Crescent Ballroom is also home to Cocina 10 Kitchen and Lounge, which is an equally cool spot to grab a bite and a drink (even if there isn’t a concert to follow, for now). Here, the specialty is “Arizona cooking with homemade recipes and vegetarian options inspired by the I-10 and people and places that surround it.” Which means tapas, tacos, burritos, bowls and salads with all the fixins' — and ask to see the not-so-secret vegan menu for even more offerings. 

308 N. Second Ave., Phoenix
602-716-2222 

 

Fry Bread House 

For nearly 30 years, Fry Bread House has been serving up traditional Tohono O'odham cuisine. In that time, this cozy restaurant in Phoenix's Melrose District has turned its main attraction — a simple, deep-fried dough that's filled with a variety of sweet or savory toppings — into a James Beard-recognized must-try. The menu here is straightforward: go for the Indian taco or the vegetarian tamale, but be on the lookout for seasonal options that showcase local veggies. The chippies with salsa and the cheese crisp also get our stamp of approval. 

4545 N. Seventh Ave., Phoenix
602-351-2345 

 

La Grand Orange 

We can't tell you exactly what makes La Grand Orange (better known as LGO) so cool, but we vote that it's at least partly due to the vegetarian menu items. This OG of the contemporary Arcadia restaurant scene is a bustling gourmet bakery, market and café that hits all the marks for a charming neighborhood spot that's a delicious choice any time of day: from organic coffee and pastries in the morning to gelato and craft cocktails after dinner. The wide range of breakfast items as well as the pizzas are a particularly popular, but you'll find tasty chili, sandos and salads, craft beer and wine by the glass here, too. 

4410 N. 40th St., Phoenix
602-840-7777 

 

Ocotillo

At Ocotillo, the simple and stylish design of the indoor and outdoor dining spaces is as delicious as the farm-to-table vegetarian menu selections — and that's saying a lot about both. Curated desert produce yields generous salads; a vast selection of vegetables, including such favorites as eggplant "meatballs" and smoked beets and a variety of such entrees as leek-ricotta ravioli with asparagus; and brunch delights range from pancakes and French toast to wild mushroom quiche and summer squash flautas. Whatever you decide on, just know that there's a perfect wine or craft cocktail waiting to be paired with it.

3243 N. Third St., Phoenix
602-687-9080 

 

Pizza Heaven Bistro

Veggie pizza is not hard to come by. In fact, it was likely a lifeline at some point for any tenured vegetarian. And so many places have thoughtfully created meat-free and plant-forward offerings these days, it would be impossible to list them all. However, they are not all on the level of Pizza Heaven Bistro. With a vegan menu that reaches well beyond bell peppers and pineapple — think starters, entrees, calzones and desserts, too — we knew our vegetarian readers would appreciate the options here. The not-so-traditional take on Italian favorites includes "peppafoni," soy sausage, chipotle sausage, “meatballs,” wings and tenders, all of which rank high on our meat replacement radar. Whatever you choose, we advise saving room for dessert. 

5150 N. Seventh St., Phoenix
602-277-8800 

 

Pomegranate Café 

The mother-daughter duo behind this neighborhood café has been serving up dynamic combinations of scratch-made components since 2010. Yes, the syrups, POMilk, wholesome breads, fresh juices and decadent baked goods are all hand-crafted. Additionally, everything on the menu is vegan unless there are eggs included. So, of course, there's endless options to choose from. But, for a truly unique vegetarian creation, we recommend trying the walnut chorizo, mushroom-lentil-walnut burger, apple sage “sausage,” or barbecue jackfruit. Nom.

4025 E. Chandler Blvd., #28, Phoenix
480-706-7472

 

SoSoBa 

Located in the Roosevelt Row Arts District, SoSoBa is more than just a trendy ramen shop. Here, the symbiotic relationship between the steamy bowls of soup and the craft cocktail program elevate the dining experience to an art form – apropos for the locale, right? Variations range from ramen and udon to soba and rice noodles, and the vegetarian and vegan options make for countless decadent combinations. A fan fave is The Mothra (vegan), which features broccoli, marinated and fried tofu, peas, bok choy, mint, Thai basil and fried garlic all an a bath of Vietnamese green curry. And if the hip ambiance of this spot didn't already lend itself to the area's late-night scene, the fact that it's open until 10 p.m., seven days a week, certainly does. 

214 W. Roosevelt St., Phoenix
602-795-1005 

 

Welcome Diner

Home to farm-to-table, American fare with a Southern twist, Welcome Diner serves up no-nonsense flavors and super-cool atmosphere in the Garfield neighborhood (located 1 mile northeast of downtown). This ultra laid-back spot is open late, perfect for comfort food as well as people watching on the giant patio. All the sandos — including fried green tomatoes and barbecue jackfruit — are vegetarian, as are most the all-day breakfast items. And the drink menu is so impressive, it will have you returning for weekend brunch. Vegans rejoice, there are plenty of options for you here, too. Read more about Welcome Diner here.

929 E. Pierce St., Phoenix
602-495-1111

 

Tempe

 

Café Lalibela Ethiopian Cuisine 

For decades, some of the best African cuisine in all of Greater Phoenix has come from this award-winning spot. Almost everything on the menu is gluten-free with vegan and vegetarian options are clearly marked. So, dig in to some Ethiopian favorites — including wat, a stew that can be made with or without meat at any level of spiciness, and injera, a crepe-like sourdough bread — are made from authentic recipes. The food here is so good, in fact, you'll now find such items as tikil gomen (cabbage potatoes and carrots) at Whole Foods, Natural Grocers, available for delivery through Amazon Prime and at the to-go market located inside the restaurant, which is fantastic, because we know you'll be in need of seconds (or thirds). 

849 W. University Drive, Tempe
480-829-1939 

 

Little Szechuan 

There's nothing we love more than a place that can accommodate the whole crew, including vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free diners. This family-owned restaurant and bar has grown in popularity among the plant-based community for its ability to just that, all while delivering exquisite Chinese cuisine. The menu clearly labels each item accordingly, so that little vegetarian stamp of approval on such classics as sweet and sour, General Tso's and kung pao entrees goes a long way. You can also indicate your spiciness (from 1 to 10), too. Bonus: When it's safe to do so again, we highly recommend grabbing one of the big, round tables with a Lazy Susan and sharing your selections with a group of friends or family.

524 W. University Drive, Tempe 
480-966-7660 

 

Moonbowls 

This new approach to healthy Korean-inspired cuisine was launched with dietary restrictions in mind — and it's proven massively popular, as this brand is popping up in cities from San Francisco to Atlanta. The menu here is 100% gluten-free and features numerous plant-based options (meat eaters in your dining party are limited to chicken. Start with an order of the Impossible beef or sweet potato pot stickers, and then check out these wholesome bowls of plant-based goodness. Fan faves include the avocado bulgogi and the sweet Korean barbecue cauliflower bowls. But the build-you-own option temps with the tofu, endless fresh veggies and flavor packed sauces. 

1900 E. Fifth St., Tempe
480-780-2070 

 

Perfect Pear Bistro 

Perfect Pear Bistro is everything a vegetarian could ask for in a family-owned, modern take on American comfort food restaurant concept. As a result of the commitment to local, the menu changes seasonally, but the staples are tantalizing, too. Let's just say, it will take you some time and effort to work your way through the vast offerings here. Standouts include, well, all the flavor-packed quinoa bowls. Any protein, including falafel, is an add on. The same is true for the salads and pasta offerings. For a more indulgent approach, the green chili cheese dip, topped with pico de gallo, and the pesto grilled cheese sandwich, loaded with tomatoes, arugula, four cheese blend and pesto sauce and served on grilled parmesan crusted nine grain bread, do not disappoint.

603 W. University Drive, Tempe
480-966-7327 

9845 S. Priest Drive, Tempe
480-247-3410 

 

Shady Park 

While an indoor/outdoor music venue may seem like an unlikely place for vegan and vegetarian cuisine, we think you'll find this Japanese-inspired menu just as hip as the bands that have taken the stage here. From pizza and wings to ramen and poke bowls, everything has a meat-free option. The dough puffs and mac and cheese bites are particularly popular, and the build-your-own ramen and pizza options offer a star-studded lineup of potential combinations. The Japanese inspiration continues throughout the cocktail menu and you'll also find such non-alcoholic beverages as melon and mango cream soda and the uber-popular Miyako Ramune (Japanese soda) here, too. Meshiagare!

26 E. University Drive, Tempe
480-474-4222
 

Scottsdale

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Scottsdale

FnB

Since opening in 2009, FnB has garnered acclaim ranging from local honors to chef Charleen Badman's James Beard: Best Chef Southwest Award in 2019. Beverage director Pavle Milic has also contributed to the restaurant's national recognition by curating the first Arizona-only wine program, perfectly complimenting Charleen's thoughtful, locally inspired cooking. The fact that this operation focuses on globally accented seasonal menus, continually showcasing the best of Arizona's abundant farming and agricultural community, bodes well for vegetarians. The selection here changes often, but some of our past favorites include Swiss chard pancakes, heirloom cauliflower adobo and fresh pasta with asparagus, Meyer lemon, rye berries and pecorino frico. Bon appétit!

7125 E. Fifth Ave., #31, Scottsdale
480-284-4777 
 

SumoMaya 

The truth is, it takes a lot for a veggie burger, stir fry or a salad to blow the socks off a tenured vegetarian. So, for anyone looking for a truly unique concept, we'd recommend SumoMaya. This fusion experience combines the flavors of Asia with the culinary traditions of Mexico and essences of South America. Which means you can expect the freshest ingredients and boldest flavors from across Latin America and the Far East to converge in tacos as well as noodle dishes. So, yes, you can have an avocado roll with a side of Mexican street corn. Brunch is just as lively with pancake "street" tacos and cream cheese and pineapple Rangoons. The cocktail program spans both continents as well.

6560 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale
480-397-9520

 

Chandler

 

Cherish Farm Fresh Eatery 

Welcome to a spot that does so many things well — the menu is extensive, the space is bright and the concept is approachable. Here, dietary restrictions, preferences and substitutions are nbd, you'll see helpful indicators throughout the thoughtful menu. But where to start? Endless breakfast options tempt all day long, classics include Impossible burgers and tacos, grain bowls come in a vibrant range of colors, pizzas tout house-made cauliflower crust and pasta dishes showcase hand-made noodles. Whatever you choose, you can wash it down with a prickly pear Moscow mule, spicy margarita or one of the Huss Brewing Co. beers on tap. 

2551 W. Queen Creek Road, Chandler 
480-350-7245 

 

The Perch Pub Brewery 

Part aviary and part sun-dappled garden, this craft brewpub is a truly unique spot that offers more than a few menu items for vegetarians to celebrate. But first, the birds. The Perch is home to tropical rescue birds — a distinction that sets this place apart from all the other Greater Phoenix breweries for animal lovers — who squawk, chirp and chatter happily from their cages, while diners soak up the ambiance and decide on one (or a few) of the 40 craft beers . Move right along to the starters for a nosh: the warm pretzels, avocado fritters, elote dip and shishito peppers are our must-trys. While some menu items rotate seasonally, the brick oven delivers pasta and pizza (including vegan options), and the mushroom agnolotti is the star of the dinner menu (after 4 p.m.). For dessert, we recommend the butternut squash churro as well as the sweet views from the second-story patio. 

232 S. Wall St., Chandler
480-773-7688 

 

Woodlands Vegetarian South Indian Kitchen 

If ever you were in search of a low-key spot with high-key flavor, this is absolutely it. Woodlands Vegetarian South Indian Kitchen continues to earn various "best of" nods and land high among top Indian restaurants in Greater Phoenix — usually beating out its meaty competition. The reason for all the fanfare is the flavors. From chaat and curries to uthappam and dosas, the offerings are seemingly endless and oh so good. But don't take our word for it. 

4980 W. Ray Road, #10, Chandler
480-820 2249 

Gilbert

 

Joe’s Farm Grill 

At Joe's Farm Grill, the focus is "common food done uncommonly well." In this case, that means the best-quality ingredients, sourced as locally as possible. As many of the fruits, vegetables and herbs are harvested from The Farm at Agritopia (12 acres dedicated to permanent urban organic farming) as possible, then sourced from local farmers in other parts of Arizona. With this commitment to ingredients that sprout from the earth, you can already see why they're deserving of inclusion here. Start with the crispy Brussels sprouts or corn fritters (or both) and from there we recommend the portobello mushroom sandwich or the fresh beet salad. There's also a cheese pizza, grilled cheese sandwich and veggie burger (vegan) to choose from. 

3000 E. Ray Road, Gilbert
480-563-4745

 

Yanagi Sushi 

Thankfully, most sushi spots offer an avocado and a veggie rolls these days (which you won't catch us complaining about). But if you're looking to kick your sushi game up a notch, this is the place to do it. Of course, you'll find those veggies rolls and more under basic rolls on this menu. But take a peek at the vegan menu and you'll find four more specialty rolls, including two that feature vegan shrimp. 

884 W. Warner Road, Gilbert
480-284-6070

 

Mesa

 

República Empanada

This pan-Latin bistro specializes in Arizona's largest variety of South American-style savory empanadas as well as other selections that represent the different regions and tastes of Latin American comfort food. Here the space is as fresh as the ingredients — which explains how it landed on Guy Fieri’s “Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives.” And with so many vegetarian options, this restaurant is an absolute must-try. Start with yuca frita (cassava fries) or tostones (green plantain chips) before attempting to decide between the assortment of potato, bean, cheese or jalapeño empanadas. As if the choice wasn't tough enough already, platters, salads, tortas and dessert empanadas round out the menu. We expect you'll be back for more in the very near future. 

204 E. First Ave., Mesa
480-969-1343