How to be a Plant-Based Restaurant (+ 10 Great Examples)

As diners become increasingly conscious of their health and the planet, plant-based dining has become a movement. But transforming your restaurant into a plant-based destination isn’t as simple as swapping meat for mushrooms. It’s important to focus on crafting dishes that are as tasty as they are conscientious.

Recent Toast data shows that 53% of guests actively seek out restaurants with healthier options, and according to Harvard Health Publishing, plant-based or plant-forward eating can be a healthy choice.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make your restaurant plant-based (or plant-forward) and irresistible to today’s diners. From industry insights to menu-building tips — plus 10 inspiring examples of restaurants doing it right — this article has you covered.

Key takeaways:

• Plant-based dining has moved into the mainstream.

• Creative, delicious plant-based dishes attract not just vegans but flexitarians and meat-eaters exploring alternatives.

• Competitive pricing makes plant-based dining more accessible to broader audiences.

• Wise use of social media marketing is key with this target audience.

• Plant-based dining establishments are thriving across the U.S.

Why offer plant-based menu items

In 2025, over 25 million people tried veganism just in the month of January.  The previous year, the plant-based food market reached $8.1 billion, signaling just how mainstream alternative dining has become. This can be attributed to a few different reasons.

Nutritional popularity:Many consumers are becoming more health-conscious. Plant-based dishes can be low in saturated fats and high in essential nutrients, appealing to health-conscious diners. Health and wellness are in! Capitalize on it. 

Animal welfare: There’s an increase in awareness of animal welfare issues. This has led many consumers to opt for plant-based alternatives. Offering these options demonstrates a commitment to ethical dining and resonates with a compassionate customer base.

Dietary diversity: Plant-based options can cater to a wide range of dietary restrictions and preferences. This includes vegan, vegetarian, and flexitarian diets. Inclusivity ensures that restaurants can accommodate a diverse clientele. Why not make your restaurant one that everyone can enjoy? 

Next, let’s look at the increasing popularity of plant-based foods and how to find the best vegan-friendly ingredients for your restaurant.

The state of plant-based restaurants

So how many restaurants are offering plant-based menu options anyway? Let’s take a look at the state of the industry: plant-based edition. 

Plant-based foods can now actually be found in about 48.4% of US restaurants. Since 2012, the presence of plant-based alternatives on menus has increased by a stunning 62%. This number has consistently grown – without decline – from about 30% ten years ago. In fact, almost one-third of the US population shows a strong affinity for plant-based food.

And how are sales for these eateries exploring plant-based options? According to PBFA, nearly all (95%) of operators offering plant-based foods and beverages anticipate sales to either increase or remain stable in the coming year. Essentially, we can expect vegan options to continue to grow in popularity. 

How do you find the right plant-based meat or vegan products for your specific cuisine type? We’ve got you covered.

Plant-based ingredients

Vegan dishes and flavors have come a long way. Today, there are many different meatless and vegan ingredient products on the market. Thanks to brands like Impossible, Just Egg, and Temptation Vegan Soft Serve, plant-based dishes don’t have to just taste like veggies. These creations make it almost taste like you’re eating the real thing! 

It’s important to do research on the ingredients that you may use daily for your plant-based recipes. Not all plant-based ingredients taste the same, and it’s essential to experiment with different options to find the ingredients that suit your vegetarian dishes best.

For example, vegan cheese comes in many different forms. However, Treeline Cheese is known for being one of the tastiest options and has a selection of spreadable cheeses, whereas Go Veggie doesn’t spread quite like the real thing. Depending on what vegan meal you’re whipping up, one type of cheese may be better than the other.

Also, plant-based ingredient prices tend to fluctuate just like regular groceries do. Make sure to check out our menu price monitor. Here you can see trends and fluctuations for ingredient prices based on proprietary Toast data.

How to create a plant-based menu for your restaurant

Whether you’re building an entire vegan menu or just curating a couple of options for your plant-based diet customers, there are some factors to consider. Your menu is what will make your food business stand out from the competition. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you get started. 

Plant-based food vendors

As we mentioned earlier, vegan ingredients and products have come a long way. Even the average consumer can find an array of plant-based products at their local Whole Foods or average grocery store. However, when it comes to sourcing high-quality plant-based ingredients for restaurants, several vendors stand out. 

One of the leading names in the industry is Beyond Meat. Beyond Meat uses ingredients like pea protein, rice protein, and dried yeast to create some of the best meatless options on the market. They offer everything from burgers and steaks to beef crumbles and breakfast sausage.

Another exceptional vendor in the plant-based food industry is Danone, a multinational food company that specializes in dairy-free products like yogurt and Silk milk. Overall, there are many different vendors offering plant-based “meat” products, dairy-free milk and cheese, and so much more. It’s essential your restaurant business researches the best plant-based vendors for your specific recipes and budget.

Make flavor the primary goal 

By distinguishing your restaurant through tasty and creative plant-based dishes, you can stand out in a crowded market and capture a loyal customer base. You’re enabling your business to appeal to a broader customer base.

Not only can you attract vegetarians and vegans, but also individuals who might be looking to reduce their meat consumption. Flavorful plant-based options can entice carnivores to explore plant-based choices, thereby expanding your restaurant's reach.

Price competitively 

Competitive pricing makes plant-based menu items more accessible to a wider range of customers. It can attract not only individuals who may be curious about plant-based dining. Lower prices can entice potential customers to try plant-based options without feeling like they are making a significant financial commitment.

There's also a perception that plant-based dining is more expensive than traditional meat-based meals. However, 36% of restaurant-goers are willing to pay more for organic or sustainably sourced dishes.

By pricing competitively, your restaurant can challenge this perception. This movement can demonstrate that plant-based options can be affordable. This can also help break down barriers to entry for those who are hesitant to try plant-based foods due to cost concerns. Make sure you’re turning a profit, but the industry should be aiming towards equal pricing in the future.

How to market your plant-based restaurant 

Social media 

The hashtag #vegan food on Instagram has about 30.9 million posts. Needless to say, people are posting plant-based dishes on social media. Consider posting about your new menu options on your restaurant’s Instagram account. You can effectively use social media to connect with your target audience, build a strong online presence, and promote your offerings. 

Some social media tips to consider:

• Use strong imagery, and if you need to, take some time with your photography to showcase the vibrant colors and details in your dishes.

• Write descriptively about the flavor since flavor is key when it comes to plant-based foods. =

• Include your restaurant’s location in the post and in your Instagram bio so people know where to visit you. Tag relevant accounts with like-minded missions, such as local plant-based content creators, sister restaurants, and foodie accounts. Make it interactive by asking a question in your post or starting a contest. (Giveaways are a great way to get reposts and impressions on your account.)

Remember that each social media platform has its own best practices and audience demographics, so tailor your content and approach accordingly. Building a strong and engaging social media presence can help your plant-based restaurant attract new customers, retain existing ones, and contribute to your overall success.

Intentional messaging

The words you choose to convey your offerings matter more than you think. Effective messaging can help differentiate your establishment in a competitive market. Aim to communicate your commitment to plant-based principles and values, attracting a loyal customer base. Storytelling and appealing descriptions can also make plant-based dishes sound more enticing. Intentional messaging can create a narrative around your menu items, making them more appealing to a broader audience.

Because plant-based foods are relatively new, it’s also important to test your messaging when listing your new menu items. For example, compare the descriptions “meatless hamburger” and “plant-powered burger”. Which one do you prefer? Most people would probably choose the second option. Consider words that highlight provenance, are familiar, and emphasize the quality.

Get your local community involved 

Getting the local community involved is an excellent marketing strategy for plant-based restaurants. It can help build a loyal customer base, enhance the restaurant's reputation, and contribute to the overall success of the business. Consider hosting community events like cooking classes, tastings, or workshops that engage the local community. This provides an opportunity for residents to connect with your restaurant and learn more about plant-based dining.

Another great option is to participate in or host fundraisers or charity events that benefit local organizations. This demonstrates your commitment to the community and its well-being. You can also collaborate with other local businesses, such as breweries or cafes, to create special promotions that contribute to local organizations. Your local community is what keeps your business afloat, and it’s important to give back.

10 Examples of Amazing Plant-Based Restaurants 

1. Soda Club - New York, NY

Soda Club is a Michelin Bib Gourmand–recognized vegan wine and pasta bar nestled in Alphabet City, Manhattan. This intimate spot pairs a thoughtfully curated natural wine list with a menu of entirely plant-based Italian dishes, proving that indulgence and sustainability can go hand in hand.

What sets Soda Club apart is its ability to make vegan dining feel effortless and authentic. Their pastas are rich, flavorful, and crafted so well you’d never guess they’re 100% plant-based. Combine that with warm, welcoming service and a cozy, date-night-ready atmosphere, and you’ve got one of the city’s most charming hidden gems.

Want a taste of their culinary magic before you visit? Check them out on Instagram (@sodaclubnyc) for endless vegan Italian inspiration.

2. Slutty Vegan - Multiple Locations  

If you haven’t heard of Slutty Vegan, you’re missing out. Founded by Pinky Cole in 2018, it started as Instagram-only burger sales from her apartment, grew into a food truck, and then opened its first brick-and-mortar with a line of 1,200 people in 45-degree weather. Today, Slutty Vegan has evolved into “Slutty Vegan 2.0,” after a major restructuring, with Pinky back at the helm and plans for global growth.

What keeps people coming back? Bold, flavorful burgers made with Impossible or Beyond patties, all served with their famous “slutty fries” dusted in signature seasoning. Slutty Vegan proves plant-based fast food can be crave-worthy and fun. Follow them on Instagram (@sluttyveganatl) for the latest updates.

3. Spicy Moon - New York, NY

Spicy Moon is one of NYC’s top vegan dining spots, known for its bold Sichuan flavors and passion for animal advocacy. With multiple locations—including East Village, Bowery, Chelsea, and West Village—and kosher certification, Spicy Moon delivers plant-based excellence on every plate.

Signature dishes like dan dan noodles, mapo tofu, and dumplings keep fans coming back, while creative specials often raise money for animal rights organizations. If you want a mission-driven restaurant with unforgettable flavors, Spicy Moon is a must-visit. See what they have to offer on Instagram ( @spicymoonnyc).

4. Vedge - Philadelphia, PA

Vedge is a Philadelphia institution redefining plant-based fine dining since 2011. Chefs Rich Landau and Kate Jacoby craft seasonal, globally inspired dishes that highlight the beauty of vegetables—think arepa pancakes with roasted beets and whipped black garlic.

With a curated selection of natural wines, craft beers, and cocktails, Vedge offers a full dining experience that’s refined, inventive, and rooted in sustainability. For a true taste of vegetable artistry, Vedge is the place. Follow them @vedgephiladelphia on Instagram. 

5. Avant Garden - New York, NY

Avant Garden has been elevating the vegan dining scene in the East Village since 2015. Known for its elegant, vegetable-forward menu and natural wine list, this intimate spot delivers a fine-dining experience that appeals to vegans and non-vegans alike.

With globally inspired flavors and a cozy, upscale atmosphere, Avant Garden proves that plant-based dining can be every bit as indulgent as traditional cuisine. See their stunning plates on Instagram (@avantgardennyc).

6. Ladybird - New York, NY  

Ladybird is a whimsical vegan tapas and wine bar in the East Village that’s been charming guests since 2016. The space is colorful and cozy, making it perfect for date nights or a night out with friends.

The seasonally rotating menu keeps things exciting, with highlights like bao buns and vegan fried eggplant paired with creative wine cocktails. Ladybird is as beautiful as it is delicious—check out their colorful Instagram (@ladybird_nyc) for a taste.

7. Kate’s Ice Cream - Portland, OR

For something sweet, Kate’s Ice Cream in Portland delivers big on flavor while keeping things plant-based and gluten-free. Inspired by the founder’s sister, who couldn’t eat dairy, Kate’s mission is simple: ice cream for everyone.

Seasonal flavors like Peach Crisp (with oat crumble and peach preserves) and Almond Joy (packed with coconut, almonds, and chocolate) make this shop a local favorite. Follow them on Instagram (@katesicecream) to see what’s scooping now.

8. Superiority Burger - New York, NY

Superiority Burger, located in the East Village of Manhattan, is a celebrated vegetarian eatery founded by chef Brooks Headley. This restaurant offers a full-service dining experience, complete with a small bar and a menu that retains beloved classics like the Superiority Burger—crafted from quinoa, chickpeas, and walnuts—and introduces new items such as a stuffed cabbage.

The restaurant's commitment to quality and creativity has earned it recognition, including a Bib Gourmand designation in the 2024 MICHELIN Guide. With its punk-rock aesthetic and a menu that balances bold flavors with vegetarian and vegan options, Superiority Burger continues to be a standout in New York City's culinary scene. For the latest updates and specials, follow them on Instagram (@superiorityburger).

9. Ramen Hood - Los Angeles, CA

Ramen Hood is a vegan ramen powerhouse tucked inside LA’s Grand Central Market. Chefs Ilan Hall and Rahul Khopkar created this concept to show just how satisfying plant-based ramen can be.

Their bowls feature rich sunflower seed broth, faux eggs, and bold toppings, plus creative sides like banh mi poutine and tofu al pastor tacos. Ramen Hood is casual, inventive, and a must-visit for any noodle lover. Find them on Instagram (@ramenhood).

10. Gracias Madre - Los Angeles, CA

Gracias Madre brings vibrant, plant-based Mexican cuisine to West Hollywood with an emphasis on organic ingredients and sustainability. The menu features standouts like the ranchero bowl and mushroom fajitas, paired with agave-forward cocktails made from small-batch Mexican distillers.

With its chic ambiance, seasonal menu, and focus on local flavors, Gracias Madre is a celebration of plant-based dining with a soulful, authentic twist. Follow them on Instagram (@graciasmadresocal) for inspiration.

Built for plant-based restaurants

Plant-based restaurants have the power to transform the way guests think about food. The examples showcased in this article show how plant-based cuisine can be delicious, diverse, and affordable. As the demand for plant-based foods continues to increase, consider other ethical options for your restaurant like sustainability and composting. 

To further streamline and enhance your plant-based restaurant's operations, explore innovative restaurant software products such as those offered by Toast. From efficient menu management to seamless online ordering, Toast's products can help you elevate your restaurant. Set your plant-based restaurant up for success with the right restaurant technology today.