Craving delicious vegan food in Tacoma? Look no further! Tacoma, Washington, nestled between the Puget Sound and Mount Rainier, is known for its stunning scenery, vibrant arts scene, and, increasingly, its fantastic culinary offerings. And the best part? Tacoma’s food scene is embracing plant-based cuisine like never before. Whether you’re a long-time vegan, a curious vegetarian, or simply exploring the world of plant-based eating, Tacoma has something to tantalize your taste buds.
This isn’t just about bland tofu and boring salads anymore. Tacoma’s chefs are creating innovative, flavorful, and satisfying vegan dishes that will surprise and delight even the most dedicated meat-eaters. From cozy cafes serving up hearty vegan breakfasts to upscale restaurants offering elegant plant-based tasting menus, Tacoma offers a diverse and delicious array of vegan food to satisfy every craving. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best vegan and vegan-friendly restaurants Tacoma has to offer, plus tips and tricks for navigating the city’s plant-based scene. Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that proves vegan food is anything but limiting.
Featured Vegan and Vegan-Friendly Restaurants
Knapps Restaurant
Cuisine Type: American Comfort Food with Vegan Options
Location: Nestled in the heart of Proctor District, Knapps Restaurant offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere perfect for a casual meal.
Description: Knapps has many delicious vegan options including a breakfast burrito that is a huge hit with the locals. The restaurant offers a unique spin on comfort food, making the meal more exciting for vegan visitors. The prices are affordable and the staff are always willing to accommodate dietary restrictions. Whether you are local or just visiting, Knapps is a great stop on your adventure in Tacoma.
Quote: “Our goal is to create a welcoming space where everyone can enjoy delicious food, regardless of their dietary choices,” says the owner of Knapps.
Website/Social Media: Check them out on Instagram at KnappsTacoma
Image: A mouthwatering photo of Knapps vegan burrito would fit nicely here.
Quickie Too
Cuisine Type: Soul Food with Vegan Options
Location: Situated in Tacoma’s Hilltop Neighborhood, Quickie Too is a must visit for anyone in the area.
Description: Quickie Too is a local favorite, offering a unique take on soul food. While not entirely vegan, they have an extensive menu of vegan options that are bursting with flavor. The atmosphere is laid-back and friendly, making it a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner. Their plant-based offerings include vegan mac and cheese, greens, and “chicken” dishes. Every vegan option is sure to please.
Quote: “I’ve tried vegan food all over, and Quickie Too has the best vegan soul food I’ve ever had!” – Yelp review
Website/Social Media: Check them out on Instagram at QuickieToo
Image: A vibrant shot of their vegan mac and cheese would be ideal.
Happy Belly
Cuisine Type: Cafe with Vegan options
Location: Located conveniently in the University of Puget Sound area, Happy Belly is a must-stop for students and locals.
Description: Happy Belly has an extensive list of vegan options that are available on their menu. This cafe offers options like vegan breakfast sandwiches, wraps, soups, salads, baked goods, and beverages. The options are extensive, allowing you to easily have a great vegan experience. The cafe also provides gluten-free options, making it a must-stop for anyone with dietary restrictions.
Quote: “It is hard to find places that are both vegan-friendly and delicious, but Happy Belly has both covered.” – Yelp review
Website/Social Media: Check them out on Instagram at HappyBellyTacoma
Image: A photo of one of their sandwiches or wraps
Loving Hut
Cuisine Type: Pan-Asian, Fully Vegan
Location: Conveniently located in a strip mall on 6th Avenue, Loving Hut is part of a global chain of vegan restaurants.
Description: Loving Hut is a fully vegan restaurant chain with a diverse menu that includes Vietnamese, Chinese, and American-inspired dishes. This is a great option for vegans and plant-based eaters because everything on the menu is already compliant. The portions are generous, the prices are reasonable, and the service is friendly. Their menu includes a wide range of appetizers, entrees, and desserts, all made with plant-based ingredients. Be sure to try their golden rolls or one of their many pho options.
Quote: “Loving Hut is a great place to go if you want a quick and satisfying vegan meal.” – HappyCow review
Website/Social Media: Search Loving Hut Tacoma for their social media.
Image: A colourful photo of Loving Hut’s most popular dish.
Indochine Asian Dining Lounge
Cuisine Type: Upscale Asian Fusion with Vegan Options
Location: Situated in the heart of downtown Tacoma, Indochine offers a sophisticated dining experience.
Description: Indochine is an elegant restaurant with a stunning interior and a diverse menu of Asian-inspired dishes. While not entirely vegan, they have a dedicated vegan menu with numerous delicious options. From flavorful curries to creative noodle dishes, there’s something for everyone. The restaurant is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. They have fantastic happy hour deals and a great view, making it a perfect experience.
Quote: “Indochine is my go-to spot for a fancy vegan meal in Tacoma.” – Local food blogger
Website/Social Media: IndochineTacoma.com
Image: An enticing photo of one of Indochine’s vegan entrees.
Beyond Restaurants: More Vegan Options in Tacoma
Bakeries and Dessert Shops
Tacoma offers a delightful array of bakeries and dessert shops catering to the sweet tooth of vegan visitors. While some bakeries have dedicated vegan sections, many others have rotating vegan options, making it a fun and interesting experience. Be sure to check out local spots like Hello, Cupcake for seasonal vegan options. Local shops like Marlene’s Market have amazing vegan options available.
For those seeking vegan ice cream, be sure to check out grocery stores like Marlene’s Market or even regular stores that carry brands like So Delicious or Oatly. Many establishments carry options now to keep up with the growing demand.
Grocery Stores
Tacoma boasts several grocery stores with excellent selections of vegan products. Trader Joe’s is a popular choice for its affordable prices and wide variety of vegan staples, including plant-based milks, cheeses, and snacks. Whole Foods Market offers a larger selection of specialty vegan items, as well as a hot bar with vegan options. Marlene’s Market is another option, with many vegan items also. Supporting local co-ops and farmers’ markets is a great way to find fresh, local vegan produce and support the community. You can often find smaller businesses setting up shop in these areas to provide other vegan food options.
Pop-Up Shops and Food Trucks
Tacoma’s food scene is further enriched by pop-up shops and food trucks that frequently offer vegan delights. These businesses often specialize in niche areas of cuisine, offering items such as vegan donuts, vegan tacos, or even gourmet vegan cheese platters. Keep an eye on local social media groups and community boards to discover these hidden gems. Some frequent spots for vegan-friendly trucks or pop-ups may be local breweries or farmers’ markets. These businesses provide a unique way to find unique eats. Be mindful that schedules are not always consistent, so confirm before planning your visit.
Tips for Eating Vegan in Tacoma
Navigating a new city as a vegan can be a little daunting, but Tacoma makes it relatively easy. Here are some helpful tips to ensure a smooth and delicious plant-based experience:
Check Menus Online: Before heading to a restaurant, take a moment to browse their menu online. Many restaurants now clearly mark their vegan options, making it easier to plan your meal.
Call Ahead: If you’re unsure about vegan options, don’t hesitate to call the restaurant ahead of time. You can inquire about specific ingredients or ask if they can modify dishes to be vegan.
Use Vegan Restaurant Finders: Apps like HappyCow are invaluable resources for finding vegan and vegan-friendly restaurants in any city. You can search by location, cuisine, and rating to find the perfect spot.
Be Specific When Ordering: When ordering, clearly state that you want a vegan meal. This will help avoid any confusion and ensure that your food is prepared without any animal products. Make sure to specify that you want no dairy, eggs, or meat.
Explore Ethnic Cuisine: Tacoma’s diverse culinary landscape includes several ethnic restaurants where vegan options are abundant. Indian restaurants often feature vegetarian curries and lentil dishes that can easily be made vegan, simply inquire about the ingredients. Ethiopian cuisine relies heavily on vegetables and legumes, offering a variety of flavorful vegan stews.
Read Reviews Online reviews, especially on sites like Yelp and Google, can provide valuable insights into the quality and authenticity of vegan options at various establishments. Pay attention to comments about taste, service, and the restaurant’s willingness to accommodate vegan requests.
Conclusion
Tacoma’s vegan food scene is thriving, offering a diverse and delicious range of plant-based options to suit every taste and budget. From the cozy cafes and upscale restaurants to the specialty bakeries and well-stocked grocery stores, Tacoma has everything you need to enjoy a fulfilling and satisfying vegan experience. The chefs of Tacoma are constantly innovating and creating new ways to appeal to the plant-based diet that is constantly rising in popularity.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your vegan food adventure in Tacoma today! Explore the restaurants, discover hidden gems, and savor the flavors of this vibrant city. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply curious about plant-based eating, Tacoma is sure to impress. Share your favorite vegan spots in Tacoma in the comments below – we’d love to hear your recommendations! And be sure to watch for updates as our article on vegan coffee options becomes available.
