Best New Orleans Vegetarian-Friendly Restaurants

Heading to New Orleans and wondering what you'll eat? This guide covers all the best vegetarian restaurants in New Orleans for you to try!

I've rounded up all my favorite spots in every neighborhood, and there's something for everyone (including vegans ... I wouldn't leave you out!), from Thai to grain bowls, and of course, beignets!

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 and vegan-friendly restaurants below!

Best New Orleans Vegetarian 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!

French Quarter Restaurants

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 plant based 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 been 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!). The food options at their charming French Quarter space are really limited (just pastries), but French Truck has five other locations in the city, and many of them have a larger menu with delicious salads, sandwiches, and more!

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 Tips: 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. And do not exhale while eating beignets ... unless you want to get powdered sugar all over yourself, that is! They also have other locations in the city, including one at the airport so you can satisfy your craving on the way out of town!

Central Grocery

Vegetarian

TEMPORARILY CLOSED 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.

Backspace Bar & Kitchen

Vegetarian

Head to Backspace for comforting sandwiches, like the decadent Grown-Up Grilled Cheese, and classic cocktails ... they make a great Dark n' Stormy. They don't have a huge menu, but it's a great spot if you're looking for something a little quieter in the French Quarter.

Tremé Restaurants

Tremé is a historic neighborhood, known for its vibrant African American culture, located just north of the French Quarter. Armstrong Park, Congo Square, and the amazing Back Street Cultural Museum are all located there.

The neighborhood is also home to one of my favorite veg friendly restaurants:

Fritai

Vegan + Vegan

Plan a visit Fritai for delicious, homey Haitian street food. I first tried Fritai when they had a spot at St. Roch Market, and it was love at first bite! At their restaurant, you can enjoy dishes like Akra (fritters with a scrumptious Pikliz Sauce, the Fritai Sandwich (made with plaintains and mango sauce), Sos Pwa (a black bean sauce served with rice), and so much more. The drinks are also great ... we loved the Ginger Lemonade and the Melon Kraze on a recent trip!

CBD / Warehouse District Restaurants

The CBD (Central Business District), NOLA's downtown, is located just outside the French Quarter. Harrahs, the Superdome, and the Convention Center are all located here, as well as many local businesses and hotels. The section of the CBD closest to the river is the Warehouse District / Arts District. It's full of galleries and museums, and it's one of my favorite areas in NOLA!

Here are my fave CBD and 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.

Visit The Daily Beet for healthy grain and veggie bowls, sandwiches, yummy avocado toast, breakfast dishes, coffee, iced tea, and smoothies. They have another location on Magazine Street in the Garden District, too.

Pythian Market

Vegetarian + Vegan

You'll find everything from pizza to poke, Vietnamese, and more (plus a cocktail bar) at the stylish Pythian Market, a food hall with a little something for everyone. On one visit, I had a great veggie-loaded salad here, and my husband had a Phoritto (basically, pho in burrito form ... a tofu version is available) from Eatwell. Yum!

St. James Cheese Company

Vegetarian

Cheese lovers rejoice! 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, although it's not always on the menu. And it's a great place to pick up gourmet groceries for afternoon snacks or a picnic. They also have a location in Uptown.

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.

Breads on Oak

Vegan

Breads on Oak is a super popular vegan bakery that's open for breakfast and lunch. Visit for the delicious artisan breads and tempting pastries, as well as a whole menu of sandwiches (including a vegan muffaletta), salads, and more. They also have a location in Uptown.

Also in the Neighborhood

French Truck Coffee (mentioned above), as well as Juan's Flying Burrito and G's Pizza (mentioned below), also have locations in the CBD / Warehouse District.

Garden District Restaurants

The Garden District (and the Lower Garden District, which I'm also including here) 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 + Vegan

Turkey and the Wolf is known for their creative sandwiches, although they have other menu items, too. Their Collard Green Melt is a mouthwatering menu standard, but they often have specials, like an asparagus sandwich (which was to die for). There's also a vegan chik'n sandwich. This place is fairly small and gets very busy, so unless you can tolerate waiting in a looong line, go during off hours (or order takeout).

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.

HiVOLT

Vegetarian + Vegan

HiVOLT 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. There are three locations in NOLA, plus a few beyond the city limits.

Pho Tran

Vegetarian

Craving Vietnamese food? Stop by Pho Tran in the Garden District. You'll find a few tofu options on their menu (noodles, rice, salads, etc.). I enjoyed the tofu banh mi and spring rolls on my last visit.

Gracious Bakery

Vegetarian

Gracious has one of my favorite breakfast sandwiches in NOLA (or anywhere, really)! They also have delicious pastries, and there's always at least one vegetarian sandwich on their lunch menu, too. There are two other locations in the city, too (Uptown and Mid-City).

Avenue Cafe

Vegetarian

When I'm looking for a quick bite in the Garden District, I often head to Avenue Cafe. I usually get the caprese sandwich and an iced coffee (the perfect light lunch). They also have salads, breakfast, pastries, juices, smoothies, plus brunch cocktails and beer.

The Delachaise

Vegetarian

Looking for fun wine bar? Head to The Delachaise. The food here is nothing special (grab a bite if you're hungry, not a meal), but the charming atmosphere makes it a great place to enjoy a glass (or bottle) of wine, especially if the weather is nice enough to sit outside!

Empanola

Vegetarian + Vegan

Stop by Empanola for delicious empanadas with both vegetarian and vegan fillings. It's hard to decide on just one or two, so I suggest going with a friend so you can sample a few different flavors! They also have an Uptown location.

Also in the Neighborhood

French Truck Coffee and the Daily Beet (mentioned above) and Dat Dog (mentioned below) also have locations in the Garden District.

Uptown Restaurants

Uptown is an expansive area located north of the Mississippi and upriver / west of the CBD / Warehouse District (including the Garden District, which I've given its own section above). 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.

Here are some of my favorite neighborhood spots in Uptown:

Bouligny Tavern

Vegetarian

Bouligny Tavern is the perfect spot for small plates, cocktails, and wine. We discovered this place by accident ... it was one of the few restaurants open late (a surprising rarity in NOLA) after Mardi Gras. There are enough vegetarian options here to make a meal, and everything we tried was delish!

Pomelo

Vegetarian + Vegan

Speaking of happy accidents ... Pomelo is another restaurant we stumbled across, but my meal ended up being perhaps the best Thai food I've ever eaten! A couple different groups of people even walked by as we were eating (we were seated outside) and commented on how amazing their food is (lol). I had the massaman curry, which was scrumptious, and shared a piece of cheesecake, which was also super tasty.

Dat Dog

Vegetarian + Vegan

Craving comfort food? Head straight to Dat Dog, where you'll find something to satisfy everyone in your group (meat eaters and veggie lovers alike). They've got four different types of vegan sausages ... the Spicy Chipotle Dog is my fave! You can order a special or choose your own topping (there are tons of options). And don't forget the tater tots! Dat Dog also has locations in the Garden District and the Marigny.

Also in the Neighborhood

Breads on Oak, The Daily Beet, Empanola, French Truck Coffee, Gracious, Juan's Flying Burrito, and St. James Cheese Company (all mentioned above) also have Uptown locations.

Marigny / Bywater Restaurants

The Marigny is located adjacent to the French Quarter (popular Frenchman Street can be found there). Colorful Bywater is located to the east of the Marigny. Both neighborhoods have a bohemian flavor, although they're rapidly being gentrified.

These areas are packed with fun bars and must visit restaurants. Here are a few of my faves:

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 loved the Shiitake Tartine I had on one visit.

Red's Chinese

Vegetarian + Vegan

TEMPORARILY CLOSED 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.

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 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 varied vendors, there is something here for everyone ... vegetarians, vegans, and meat eaters alike! Grab a coffee at Coast Roast Coffee (the Roch Fizz is so good!), then choose from Mediterranean, Burmese, and more.

Also in the Neighborhood

Dat Dog (mentioned above) also has a location in the Marigny.

Mid-City Restaurants

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 any 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's a Warehouse District location, too), and they serve delicious pizza, pasta, salads, and sandwiches. I love their NOLA Green Roots Pizza. They also have a large vegan menu!

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!

Also in the Neighborhood

French Truck Coffee, Gracious, and Juan's Flying Burrito (both mentioned above) also have locations in Mid-City.

Restaurant Map

I hope you found some fun new restaurants to try on your next trip to New Orleans! If I missed one of your favorite vegetarian restaurants in NOLA, let me know in the comments so I can check it out on my next visit!

To help you out during your trip, I've made a map with all the restaurants I mentioned above. You can view the interactive map here, or by clicking on the map image below. Then use it during your trip to find somewhere delicious to eat!

Other Things to Do in New Orleans ... Besides Eat!

Now that you know where to eat (priorities!), you can begin planning the rest of your trip.

Start by reading my New Orleans Travel Guide ... it covers everything you need to know about visiting the city. Then, check out some of my favorite 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 in City Park, the WWII Museum in the Warehouse District, 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 the beautiful neighborhood's jaw-dropping homes and oak tree-lined streets. Check out my Garden District guide to learn more about the area, then follow my free Garden District walking tour when you get there.
• 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 or rainy, maybe both! Read about how you can beat the heat in summer, then check out the best ways to spend a rainy day.
• Save a buck. NOLA can get expensive, but not every activity has to be super pricey. These are my favorite free things to do in New Orleans.
• Go shopping. New Orleans has some of the best shopping, especially on a Royal Street in the French Quarter and Magazine Street in the Garden District and Uptown. If you're an avid reader, you'll also want to check out the Best Bookstores in New Orleans.