Heading to New Orleans and wondering what you’ll eat? Check out this guide to the best New Orleans vegetarian-friendly restaurants in every neighborhood!
I love New Orleans, but it’s not exactly the most vegetarian-friendly city.
NOLA is known for its food … muffalettas, po-boys, gumbo, red beans and rice, jambalaya, etc. Most of it’s full of meat or seafood though … so what’s a vegetarian (let alone a vegan) to do?
Thankfully, it is possible to find amazing vegetarian food in New Orleans. You just need to do your homework first.
And lucky for you, I’m sharing all my favorite New Orleans vegetarian-friendly restaurants below!
Best New Orleans Vegetarian-Friendly Restaurants
I remember the first time I visited New Orleans years ago. It was pre-Yelp, and finding places with decent vegetarian food was a real struggle.
A lot of the iconic New Orleans restaurants didn’t have any veg options to speak of, or the ones they did have were pretty pathetic. And my husband (who’s not vegetarian) did not want to eat at places that only served veggie food for every meal.
Thankfully, it’s a lot easier to find vegetarian, and even vegan, food in New Orleans these days. And I’m sharing all my faves below, organized by neighborhood (French Quarter, Garden District, etc.). I’ve also noted which places have vegan options (not all do).
I tend to be the only vegetarian in my group when traveling, so it’s worth noting that most of these restaurants are not 100% vegetarian, and some have more veggie options than others. These are spots that will make everyone on your trip (veggie-lover or not) happy though!
What’s your fave vegetarian restaurant in New Orleans?
There are sooo many amazing restaurants in New Orleans that I have yet to try them all … ha ha.
Do you have a favorite vegetarian restaurant in NOLA that I didn’t include? Let me know in the comments so I can check it out on my next visit. I’m sure my other readers would love more ideas, too!
French Quarter
You’ll find a restaurant on pretty much every corner in the French Quarter. Many are super touristy though and/or they only serve Cajun and Creole classics that are not vegetarian-friendly.
Thankfully, there are lots of great options if you know where to look. Here are my favorite vegetarian restaurants in the French Quarter:
Killer Po-boys
Vegetarian + Vegan
A po-boy is a classic New Orleans’ sandwich served on french bread that’s almost always filled with meat. Killer Po-boys has a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, all of which are super tasty. I’ve only gone to the main location on Dauphine Street, but you can get their po-boys in the back of the Erin Rose Bar, too.
French Truck Coffee
Vegetarian
French Truck Coffee is my favorite spot to grab a coffee when I’m in town … I LOVE their NOLA iced coffee (so good!), and their Caprese sandwich is delish. The food options at their charming French Quarter space is really limited (two sandwiches, plus a few pastries). But French Truck has three other NOLA locations (with two more coming soon), and the Dryades one has a much bigger menu (with a few vegan options).
Cafe Du Monde
Vegetarian
You can’t live on sweets alone, or can you? Ha ha … a trip to the Big Easy isn’t complete without a stop at Cafe Du Monde, as far as I’m concerned. Order a cafe au lait (which is made with chicory) and a plate of beignets … make a meal out of it so you don’t have to share. There are eight locations in the New Orleans metro area, but the French Quarter locale is the one to visit (at least on your first trip).
Pro Tip: The line at Cafe Du Monde gets looong (although it moves fairly fast). Try to go early, late, or at an off hour to escape the crowds. Also, do not exhale while eating beignets … unless you want to get powdered sugar all over yourself, that is!
Central Grocery
Vegetarian
Central Grocery is the classic spot for another time-honored NOLA fave, the muffaletta, a sandwich filled with meat, cheese, and olive salad and served on round sesame bread. If you go when they’re not super busy, and you ask nicely, they will make a vegetarian version for you. Do not get a full sandwich … it’s huge!
Bennachin
Vegetarian + Vegan
For a truly unique experience in the French Quarter, head to Bennachin, an African restaurant featuring amazing food from Gambia and Cameroon. The food here is homey and delicious, and you’ll love the cozy, welcoming atmosphere, too.
Green Goddess
Vegetarian + Vegan
You’ll find Green Goddess tucked away on Exchange Place, a quaint alley in the French Quarter. They serve a delicious international menu with lots of creative vegetarian and vegan dishes, and even some gluten free options. There’s something here for everyone in your group!
Backspace Bar & Kitchen
Vegetarian
Come to Backspace for comforting sandwiches, like the decadent Grown-Up Grilled Cheese, and classic cocktails … they make a great Dark n’ Stormy. This literary-themed spaced is one of my husband’s favorite spots (if you’re traveling with a meat eater, he recommends the Whitman Roast Beef).
Pythian Market
Vegetarian + Vegan
You’ll find everything from pizza to Middle Eastern to Vietnamese (plus a cocktail bar) at the stylish Pythian Market, a food hall located on the edge of the French Quarter. I’ve only been once, but I loved the flavor-packed Mushroom Medley Salad from Squeezed, and my husband had a Phoritto (basically, pho in burrito form … a tofu version is available) from Eatwell. Yum!
Warehouse District
The Warehouse / Arts District is one of my favorite areas in NOLA. There is so much to do here, including lots of galleries and museums … and then there’s the food!
Here are my fave Warehouse District vegetarian-friendly restaurants:
The Daily Beet
Vegetarian + Vegan
I discovered The Daily Beet completely by (happy) accident. We were in an Uber on the way to a basketball game, and as we drove by, the word Beet caught my eye. I had to look it up later, and now, it’s probably my favorite vegetarian restaurant in New Orleans … I come here at least once on every trip to NOLA.
My husband was a little resistant to checking out The Daily Beet at first (he hates beets … ha ha), but despite the name, their menu really isn’t beet heavy. We are now both in love with their amazing grain and veggie bowls, as well as their breakfast menu, sandwiches, salads, iced tea, and smoothies. They have another location in the St. Roch Market, too (more on that place below).
St. James Cheese Company
Vegetarian
Cheese lovers rejoice, because St. James Cheese Company is the perfect place to indulge in a gooey grilled cheese, delicious salad, and a glass of wine or beer. I love their pimento cheese! They also stock gourmet groceries, making this the perfect place to pick up afternoon snacks or picnic supplies.
Pulp & Grind
Vegetarian
I stumbled upon Pulp & Grind, a super cute coffee shop, while looking for an afternoon caffeine boost. They serve a variety of coffee and juices, which you can pair with their delicious pastries and other light foods (like quiche).
Rouse’s
Vegetarian + Vegan
Okay, Rouse’s is not a restaurant (although they do have a cafe and multiple food stations), it’s a grocery store. However, it’s the perfect place to stock up on fresh veggies, snacks, and other healthy foods for your stay in New Orleans. They also have a large selection of beer and wine, and even have a wine chiller which will quickly cool your white wine as you shop … genius. Rouse’s has quite a few locations, but the one on Barrone is especially handy if you’re staying in the French Quarter / Warehouse or Garden Districts.
Carmo
Vegetarian + Vegan
For delicious, healthy food with a Brazilian twist, head to Carmo. Their menu is packed with yummy salads, appetizer, entrees, and desserts. I love their namesake Carmo Salad. The other great thing about this place is its convenient location. It’s just down the street from a number of galleries and a couple blocks from the amazing WWII Museum.
Garden District
The Garden District is probably my favorite area in New Orleans … it’s pretty much charm central!
And you’ll find a lot of tasty vegetarian-friendly restaurants here, too:
Turkey and the Wolf
Vegetarian
Turkey and the Wolf is known for their delicious, creative sandwiches, although they have other menu items, too. On my last visit, I had an asparagus sandwich which was to die for! This place is fairly small and gets very busy, so unless you can tolerate waiting in a looong line, go during off hours.
Juan’s Flying Burrito
Vegetarian + Vegan
New Orleans isn’t exactly known for its Mexican food, but don’t let that stop you from heading to Juan’s Flying Burrito. This is another of my absolute fave NOLA restaurants that I’ve been enjoying for years. Everything on the menu is delish, but I especially love their Green Goat Quesadilla and Veggie Punk Burrito (get it wet). Juan’s has four locations, but we usually hit the one in the Garden District, or sometimes the CBD.
Hi Volt
Vegetarian + Vegan
Hi Volt is another great coffee shop that’s a wonderful breakfast, brunch, or lunch option. You’ll find a variety of delicious bowls, pastries, sandwiches, and more here … all perfect for pairing with coffee or juice.
District: Donuts. Sliders. Brew
Vegetarian
Treat yourself at District: Donuts. Sliders. Brew! I can’t remember how I discovered District, but it was love at first bite … and I’m not even that much of a donut person. District serve giant, gourmet donuts, which you can pair with coffee, juice, or tea. They also serve delicious savory food, but you may be stuffed after that donut … just saying! There are three locations in NOLA, plus a few beyond the city limits.
Uptown
Uptown is a huge neighborhood located west of the Garden District. If you’ve ever ridden the St. Charles Street Car to the end, you’ve been through Uptown, which encompasses Audubon Park, Tulane and Loyola Universities, and much more.
I still have a lot of exploring to do in this neighborhood, but here are some of my favorite spots:
DTB
Vegetarian
Come to DTB, which stand for Down the Bayou, for delicious coastal Cajun cuisine. If you love appetizers, this is the perfect place to make a meal of them … paired with a cocktail, of course. I especially love their Mushroom Boudin Balls, Roasted Beet Salad, and delicious Hand Cut Fries. Save room for dessert!
Cowbell
Vegetarian
You’ll love the charming, lively atmosphere at Cowbell! It’s located near the end of Oak Street, and you’ll find a bunch of veg-friendly items on their menu, including burgers, salads, apps, and more. Personally, I’d recommend making a meal of their decadent Mac and Cheese, yummy Grilled Asparagus, and a glass of wine.
Jacques-Imo’s
Vegetarian
I’ll be upfront and admit right now that Jacques-Imo’s is not the most vegetarian-friendly spot on this list. However, if you’re traveling with a group of meat eaters that wants to visit a New Orleans classic, this is a good option … their Vegetarian Delight (the only veg entree), which is acorn squash stuffed with curried vegetables, is delicious. Expect a long wait to get into this super fun, crowded space.
Bywater
Bywater is a colorful, lively neighborhood located near the French Quarter. It has a bohemian flavor, although it’s rapidly being gentrified.
This area is packed with fun bars and must visit restaurants. These are a few of my faves:
Red’s Chinese
Vegetarian + Vegan
Most people don’t think of Chinese food when it comes to New Orleans, but Red’s Chinese just might change that for you! A friend of a friend introduced us to Red’s, and I haven’t been able to get their creative Chinese cuisine with a southern twist off my mind since. Go with a group so you can try a little of everything or just give in and fully pig out! I especially love their Smashed Cucumbers, Veggie Fried Rice, Eggplant, and Broccoli.
N7
Vegetarian
If you’re looking for amazing French food served in a beautiful atmosphere, N7 is the perfect choice. As soon as you step into this gem, hidden behind a tall fence, you’ll fall in love with the magical setting, mouthwatering food, and delicious wine. Everything is good, but I especially love the Shiitake Tartine.
Parleaux
Vegetarian
Parleaux is not a restaurant, it’s a microbrewery, although there may be a food truck to keep you fed, too. However, it’s a super fun, chill spot to relax … and you can enjoy a giant pretzel with your beer.
St. Roch
I haven’t spent too much time in St. Roch, apart from its beautiful cemetery and its historic market, but it’s definitely worth exploring further.
St. Roch Market
Vegetarian + Vegan
St. Roch Market is a former fish market that’s been transformed into a Southern food hall. With its beautiful space and many vendors, this is definitely one of my top choices in New Orleans. There is something here for everyone … vegetarians, vegans, and meat eaters alike! My faves include Coast Roast Coffee (the St. Roch Fizz is so good!), The Daily Beet (love … check out the Warehouse District section for more on this place), Fritai (the Mushroom Tofu Fritai is super delish), and Torshi (the Falafel Wrap and Mint Lemonade are both divine).
Mid-City
If you’ve ventured to City Park or Greenwood or Cyprus Grove Cemeteries, you been to Mid-City … another expansive NOLA neighborhood.
This area covers a lot of space, but here are some of my fave vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Mid-City:
Katie’s
Vegetarian
Katie’s is lively, neighborhood spot that serves a menu of New Orleans favorites. I love their Vegetarian Muffaletta … yum! It’s located just a couple blocks from Canal Street, making the street car a convenient way to get here.
Fharmarcy
Vegetarian + Vegan
Craving comfort food with a Vietnamese twist? Then, you have to stop by Fharmacy! You’ll love the friendly atmosphere here, as well as the yummy sandwiches and sides. I couldn’t stop eating my Tater Tots served Extra Strength with cheese sauce, pico de gallo, and jalapenos. And my Veggie Wrap was super tasty, too.
Angelo Brocato
Vegetarian
Treat yourself at Angelo Brocato, a classic Italian bakery that’s been in business for over 100 years! Try the yummy spumoni, gelato, or one of their mouthwatering Italian pastries … it’s hard to go wrong here.
G’s Pizza
Vegetarian + Vegan
After exploring the Mid-City cemeteries, stop by G’s Pizza to refuel. This funky little spot is tucked away on Bienville (there are two other NOLA locations, too), and they serve delicious pizza, pasta, salads, and sandwiches. I love their NOLA Green Roots Pizza!
The Bean Gallery
Vegetarian
The Bean Gallery is the perfect place to get enjoy a pick-me-up before or after a trip to City Park, which is just a few blocks away. This cute spot serves great coffee and tea, plus sandwiches and other food. Try the Caprese Panini!
Other Things to Do in New Orleans … Besides Eat!
Now that you know where to eat (priorities!), you can start planning the rest of your trip.
Here are some of my fave things to do in NOLA:
- Visit a museum. There are so many amazing museums worth visiting in this historic city. I especially love the New Orleans Museum of Art, which is in City Park, and the quirky Pharmacy Museum in the French Quarter.
- Tour a city of the dead. New Orleans is known for its beautiful cemeteries. Take a self-guided walking tour of my favorite, Lafayette No. 1 in the Garden District.
- Admire the unique architecture. Speaking of the Garden District, you can’t visit NOLA without viewing its jawdropping homes. A walking tour of the Garden District is the best way take them all in.
- Experience Mardi Gras. A trip to NOLA during Mardi Gras is on many bucket lists. But if you’re traveling to NOLA at another time of year, you can still enjoy the fun at Mardi Gras World.
- Escape the tourists. It’s never not touristy in New Orleans. Need a break from all the people? Take the ferry across the river to quiet, charming Algiers Point.
- Deal with the crazy weather. New Orleans is notorious for its bad weather … it’s often hot and rainy, maybe both! Here’s how you can beat the heat in summer and here are the best ways to spend a rainy day.
What is your favorite vegetarian restaurant in New Orleans?
Let me know below, and I’ll check it out on my next visit!
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