11 of the best vegan restaurants in Toronto to try for Veganuary and beyond

Escape into the lush, greenery-filled courtyard of this Toronto gem, perfect for a tranquil vegan-friendly dining experience. Credit: Featured Hawker
leafy outdoor patio with wooden tables and chairs at one of the best vegan-friendly restaurants in Toronto.

Toronto offers an abundance of restaurant choices for the vegan community. Whether you’re interested in the flavours of Mexico, or if you want a restaurant that embodies the taste and scenery of Canadian forests, Toronto has a place for every plant-based diner. Whether you’re embracing Veganuary, cutting down on meat, or exploring the city’s innovative culinary offerings, the best vegan restaurants in Toronto range from charming date-night gems and vegan-friendly joints to buzzing hotspots for a fun group night out, fine dining destinations, and cool cafés serving plant-based goodness.

Try a fine dining gem in trendy Yorkville for a plant-based tasting menu that’s hard to forget. Settle into a bright ambience for whole foods flavoured with a creative twist and savour the national dish of Egypt with all its plant-based goodness. Vegan diners will agree that Toronto is a top hotspot for creative vegan cuisine

Check out OpenTable  for the best vegan restaurants in Toronto and reserve your spot before you go.

The best vegan restaurants in Toronto for stellar plant-based cuisine – read on for a guide

For one of the best vegan restaurants in Toronto for a fine dining experience – reserve a table at Avelo Restaurant in Yorkville

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Don’t miss the delicious homemade pasta they make at Avelo. Credit: Avelo
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Avelo’s rustic yet elegant spaces are perfect for a date. Credit: Avelo

Avelo Restaurant elevates plant-based cuisine to the level of fine art, offering a curated, multi-course dining experience in the heart of Toronto. Known for its commitment to sustainability and seasonality, Avelo features an ever-evolving menu that highlights the freshest local ingredients. Through a five or eight-course tasting menu, guests can enjoy dishes like delicate handmade pasta, vibrant vegetable-forward creations, and imaginative desserts, all crafted with an eye for detail and flavour harmony. Avelo’s intimate dining space provides an upscale yet approachable ambience, perfect for special occasions or a refined night out. The restaurant’s attentive service and carefully paired wine options enhance the culinary journey. For plant-based fine dining at its best, Avelo is a must-visit destination in Toronto.

For a fun night out at a buzzing brewery – stop by Steam Whistle Kitchen in the Entertainment District

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Cheers to good times with oversized steins of beer and a feast of flavorful dishes at Steam Whistle Kitchen. Credit: Steam Whistle Kitchen
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With an open-concept design and vibrant greenery, Steam Whistle Kitchen is the ideal spot for casual dining and social gatherings. Credit: Steam Whistle Kitchen
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Steam Whistle Kitchen’s bar combines industrial charm with a touch of greenery, creating the perfect atmosphere for drinks and conversation. Credit: Steam Whistle Kitchen

Steam Whistle Kitchen combines classic comfort food with the fresh, crisp taste of its celebrated craft beers. Located in Toronto’s historic Roundhouse, this buzzing brewery offers a fun, laid-back atmosphere perfect for gathering with friends or family. The menu boasts crowd-pleasers like juicy plant-based burgers, crispy fried mushrooms, and fresh salads topped with plant-based “chicken” fillets. Other showstoppers include a vegan N.S. donair with plant-based meat and donair sauce served with fries, cornbread with spiced syrup and a vegan apple crumble with oats and plant-based butter. Wash it all down with the house premium pilsner and enjoy it all with views of the brewing process or on the inviting patio. Whether you’re a beer aficionado or simply seeking hearty food in a unique setting, Steam Whistle Kitchen delivers a quintessential Toronto dining experience.

For vegan spins on Italian classics – book Bellona in Bloor West Village and Little Italy

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Dive into Bellona’s spaghetti puttanesca, where tangy tomato sauce, briny olives, and fresh basil create a symphony of bold flavours. Credit: Bellona
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Bellona’s twist on a classic cocktail is a perfect blend of bold flavours and crisp sophistication, served in style. Credit: Bellona
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Bellona’s sleek and welcoming façade invites you to explore its innovative, plant-forward menu in the heart of Toronto. Credit: Bellona
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Savor every bite of Bellona’s vibrant plant-based lasagna, layered with hearty vegetables and topped with a bold tomato sauce and basil. Credit: Bellona

With locations in Bloor West Village and Little Italy, Bellona brings the vibrant, sun-kissed flavours of the Mediterranean to the heart of Toronto. With a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients, this stylish restaurant serves up an array of dishes inspired by the coastal regions of Spain, Italy, and Greece. Tuck into starters such as panko-breaded oyster mushrooms served with a lemon dill aioli, breaded eggplant or plant-based “meatball” sliders before moving on to the main event. Handmade pasta is the star of the show here, where vegan takes on Italian classics come in the form of red wine-infused ravioli stuffed with tofu cream cheese and plant-based oven-baked lasagna. Pizzas come topped with deep-fried tofu, brown rice and mushroom sausage – but make sure to leave room for dessert. The vegan tiramisú made with espresso and rum is topped with coconut whipped cream for the perfect end of the meal. The wine list features a curated selection of Mediterranean and local bottles, perfect for pairing with the bold, zesty flavours on the menu. Bellona’s sleek decor and inviting ambience make it an ideal choice for date nights or group celebrations.

For healthy vegan food – try Fresh Kitchen + Juice Bar in Midtown, Etobicoke, Danforth, and Yonge-Eglinton

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Fresh brings a flavorful spread of vibrant plant-based bites, perfect for sharing or savouring solo. Credit: Fresh
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Dine under a canopy of greenery at Fresh, where the atmosphere is as refreshing as the plant-based dishes. Credit: Fresh
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Fresh’s cozy and vibrant interior, adorned with citrus-inspired wallpaper, invites you to relax and enjoy its plant-powered menu. Credit: Fresh
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Gather around a feast of bold, flavorful plant-based dishes, from fresh salads to savoury flatbreads, at Fresh. Credit: Fresh

Healthy fare meets colourful flare at this Toronto favourite. Fresh Kitchen + Juice Bar in Midtown, Etobicoke, Danforth, and Yonge-Eglinton is the creation of founder Ruth Tal who opened the first branch in Toronto in 1991. Proving that vegan food can both satisfy and revitalize,  plant-goodness and taste meet on the menu at Fresh Kitchen + Juice Bar, one of the best vegan restaurants in Toronto for healthy food. From nourishing bowls packed with veggies and grains to indulgent burgers made with plant-based patties, Fresh offers something for every craving. Crowd favourites include the crispy quinoa onion rings, spicy buffalo cauliflower tacos, and hearty Buddha bowls. The menu also features cold-pressed juices, smoothies, and innovative cocktails, making it a versatile spot for any time of day. With its bright, welcoming atmosphere and commitment to fresh, sustainable ingredients, Fresh on Eglinton is the go-to spot for vegan-friendly dining in Toronto.

📍 Midtown — Check availability

📍 Etobicoke — Check availability

📍 Danforth — Check availability

📍 Yonge-Eglinton — Check availability

For plant-based comfort food near Toronto – book at Plant Matter Kitchen in London

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A bold flatbread creation at Plant Matter Kitchen, topped with roasted vegetables and creamy plant-based drizzles. Credit: Plant Matter Kitchen
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Plant Matter Kitchen’s hearty plant-based meatballs in a rich tomato sauce are perfect for dipping crispy toasted bread. Credit: Plant Matter Kitchen
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Relax in Plant Matter Kitchen’s modern and minimalist dining space, where simplicity meets plant-based sophistication. Credit: Plant Matter Kitchen
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Elevate your cocktail experience with this silky lavender-infused creation, a signature sip at Plant Matter Kitchen. Credit: Plant Matter Kitchen

West of Toronto in London is Plant Matter Kitchen, a plant-based restaurant with a menu that will awaken your senses. Fast and friendly servers bring dishes made with seitan and meat-free ingredients to recreate some of the city’s favourite meals. Signature dishes include a plant-based beef bourguignon, a housemade beet and bean burger with roasted red pepper hummus and a cobb salad with vegan egg, tempeh Bits and house-smoked tofu that makes for a fresh-tasting lunch.  Abundant greenery flows through a dining room with comfortable seating to encourage longer stays. Wood accents give a noticeably Canadian feel to the clean and modern eating area. Friendly servers can offer helpful menu suggestions.

For one of the best vegan restaurants in Toronto for plant-based Asian cuisine – visit Planta in Yorkville and the Entertainment District

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PLANTA’s bold dumplings, drenched in a fiery chili oil, bring an explosion of flavors to your plate. Credit: PLANTA
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PLANTA’s elegant dining room features stunning decor, with vibrant red trees creating an unforgettable atmosphere. Credit: PLANTA
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Crispy plant-based calamari paired with a tangy chili dip, a crowd favorite at PLANTA. Credit: PLANTA
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 Dive into PLANTA’s aromatic dumpling soup, infused with luxurious truffles and garnished with fresh greens. Credit: PLANTA

Chef David Lee brings a 100% plant-based culinary experience at Planta, located in Yorkville and Entertainment District. Quality ingredients from ethical suppliers are the building blocks for sustainable meals based around Asian cuisine. The bang bang broccoli is the perfect start of the show to share with the table, suggested for its sweet chili flavour combined with peanut sauce. Noodles and sushi fans can rejoice at the many options, including udon noodles with truffle mushroom cream, “tuna” rolls with watermelon, avocado, and toasted coconut and the unagi eggplant with miso truffle. Wash it all down with a hibiscus iced tea for a relaxing drink bursting with healthy flavonoids. High ceilings in the dining room hint at the luxury infused throughout the restaurant. Head over to Planta for your next vegan meal out.

📍 Yorkville — Check availability

📍 Entertainment District — Check availability

For creative cocktails and shareable plates at one of the best date night spots in Toronto – don’t miss Bar Avelo in Yorkville

The dining area at Bar Avelo, one of the best vegan restaurants in Toronto.
The Victorian inspired interior bar and dining room at Bar Avelo. Credit: Bar Avelo
Vegan balls at Bar Avelo, possibly the best vegan restaurant in Toronto.
Crispy original creations with melted vegan cheese at Bar Avelo. Credit: Bar Avelo
A wide selection of cocktails to spark conversation. Credit: Bar Avelo

Tucked away on a quiet side street near Yonge and Wellesley – right above its sibling restaurant Avelo RestaurantBar Avelo await diners looking for the perfect date night spot with cozy vibes and shareable plates. Wine and cocktails are served and can be enjoyed with your meal under arched ceilings. Order your table a cheese board with nut-based cheeses, fresh fruit, fermented veg, and ciabatta bread. Don’t miss the stellar beluga lentil tempeh empanadas and choose from a variety of flatbreads topped with cherry tomatoes, mushrooms and truffle oil or caramelized onion. Pair your sharing plates with a cocktail from the elegant drinks menu and try a spiced spritz made with spicy rum or a gin and ginger martini. Set in a heritage townhouse a short walk south of Yonge and Bloor station, the restaurant’s interior is reminiscent of Toronto’s Victorian era. The intimate atmosphere and vast drink selection will make you want to return.

For a creative plant-based meal at one of the best vegan restaurants in Toronto – try Hawker in Chinatown

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Immerse yourself in the smoky aroma and rich flavour of Hawker’s signature spiced dip, served with freshly baked bread. Credit: Hawker
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Grilled greens meet creamy plant-based yogurt and toasted pine nuts in this vibrant, flavor-packed plate. Credit: Hawker
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Step into Hawker’s earthy interior, where natural textures and living walls create a serene dining atmosphere. Credit: Hawker
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Hawker’s artistic presentation shines in this delicate dish, combining bold flavors and edible floral details. Credit: Hawker

Enjoy a soulful and original Canadian dining experience at Hawker. Chef Jeff Merkel offers a selection of small plates to allow a wide culinary experience. Try the earth plate with oyster mushrooms with smoked corn broth and sesame. In another small dish, shishito peppers are covered in a birch syrup with a smoky tomato sauce and finished with chilies and garlic. Feast on spicy biryani rice and smoked poblano paste, creatively accompanied by lavender oil, and complete your meal with coconut ice cream accompanied by almond, hazelnut, and brown sugar. The dining area is intentionally arboreally themed with green woodsy decor that is distinctly Canadian. Lush and welcoming, the attention to detail is hard to miss and matches well with the theme of the food. A patio in the back and at the front of the restaurant is open on warmer days.

For plant-based Mexican cuisine – don’t miss La Bartola on College Street

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Artisanal craftsmanship meets bold flavours as chefs at La Bartola meticulously plate vibrant Mexican-inspired creations. Credit: La Bartola
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Step into La Bartola’s cozy and chic dining space, where every corner celebrates Mexican culture through artful decor and a welcoming atmosphere. Credit: La Bartola
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La Bartola’s bar area invites you with its stunning decor, where colourful details and a warm ambiance set the tone for a lively evening. Credit: La Bartola
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Celebrate bold Mexican flavours with La Bartola’s trio of sauces, a vibrant symphony of traditional and creative culinary expressions. Credit: La Bartola

Created by chef Ivan Castro, La Bartola interprets Mexican cuisine from a purely plant-based perspective. Originally from Mexico City, Ivan’s passion for freshness and flavour led him to create La Bartola, one of the best vegan restaurants in Toronto for Mexican fare. Start your table off right with herbed guacamole, scented with key lime leaf oil and placed beside corn tostadas and move to a more substantial quesadilla with roasted potatoes and cashew cheese. or a pistachio chile served with handmade tortillas. This gooey meal can satisfy your plant-based cravings with a healthy take on a North American meal.  The tastes of Mexico City, as well as the Oaxaca region, are the primary source of creative influence at the delectable gem. For a memorable Mexican experience visit La Bartola soon. 

If you want to dine in style at one of the best vegan restaurants in Toronto – visit Earls Kitchen + Bar in Yorkdale, the King West Financial District, and Etobicoke 

The exterior door of Earls Kitchen + Bar, one of the 10 best vegan restaurants in Toronto.
The exterior door of Earls Kitchen + Bar with its abundant plant life Credit: Earls Kitchen + Bar
People sharing food at Earls Kitchen + Bar, one of Toronto’s best vegan restaurants.
Shareable dishes include guac and chips, as well as pizza with basil, mushrooms, and red peppers. Credit: Earls Kitchen + Bar
A large dining room at Earls Kitchen + Bar, Toronto’s best vegan restaurant.
The large dining room with high quality finishings. Credit: Earls Kitchen + Bar
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Share vibrant dishes and crafted cocktails at Earls Kitchen + Bar, where every bite and sip is a celebration of bold flavors. Credit: Earls Kitchen + Bar

Earls Kitchen + Bar is a cool and trendy spot in Yorkdale, the Financial District and Etobicoke. This lively gem loved by locals boasts is one of the best vegan-friendly restaurants in Toronto any time of the day, from brunch to happy hour. to late dinner Plant-based diners will want to give the vegan tofu sesame citrus noodle bowl a try. It includes crispy tofu mixed with Asian pear, fresh herbed greens and crushed peanuts. For another great plant option, order the vegan kale and mushroom pizza. It comes topped with caramelized onions, kale, and vegan cheese resting on a fresh crust. The desserts on offer are vegetarian. Try the sticky toffee chocolate pudding with almond florentine, vanilla ice cream, and fresh berries.  The dining rooms abound with high-end finishings and creative wall pictures to create an atmosphere that is ideal for a special day.

📍 Yorkdale — Check availability

📍 Financial District — Check availability

📍 Etobicoke — Check availability

For a trip to Egypt at one of the best vegan-friendly restaurants in Toronto – book a table at Papyrus on the Danforth

The dining area is decorated with Egyptian hieroglyphs. Credit: Papyrus

Papyrus on the Danforth serves vegetarian and vegan-friendly Egyptian specialties. With generous plates and a budget-friendly menu, discover Egypt’s national dish and order koshari – where rice, lentils, and pasta all combine with tomato sauce and caramelized onions for a satisfying meal overflowing with wholesome ingredients. Atrip to an Egyptian restaurant wouldn’t be complete without a serving of hummus – Papyrus offers an original take on this creamy spread with the inclusion of pine nuts, and all orders include pita bread for dipping. Bean fanatics won’t be disappointed when ordering ful, a bean dish with intense seasonings of lime olive oil, lemon, and spices. The dining room will transport you to Egypt with its hieroglyph-covered walls and soft chairs. Lighting is expertly placed to provide a warm dining experience. Be sure to visit Papyrus, one of the best vegan-friendly restaurants in Toronto. 

Toronto vegans will find themselves overwhelmed with restaurant choices to fit every mood and budget. Explore international cuisine from a plant-based perspective in the cultural mosaic of Toronto. Whether you’re looking for Egyptian street food or an unconventional Canadian dining creation, this city is where you want to be to explore exciting new vegan dining options. Choose one of the best vegan restaurants in Toronto.

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