Maybe it’s the time of year or all of the “in a relationship” and “so-and-so is now engaged to so-and-so” status updates flooding my Facebook feed lately. It could be the Vegan Power Couples story over on Vegan Weddings HQ, or maybe it’s simply because I’m in a new-ish relationship myself! *squeak* Regardless, while walking to the bus stop in Chicago’s frigid evening air the other day I felt inspired to create a roundup of the Country’s most romantic vegan restaurants.
You all know I spent two years traveling the country specifically to eat at every single vegan restaurant in the US, right? Therefore, I’ve had the pleasure of dining at all of the following restaurants, with the exception of one (it opened after I left that part of the country). I’ll let you know which one it is when we get to it on the list. But, I can vouch for twenty-three of these delectable eateries.
Browse, enjoy, and select among the most lovey-dovey, whimsical, and enchanting of them all! Combining my personal favorites with your recommendations from THIS Facebook question, I give you the twenty-four most romantic vegan restaurants in the United States ::
(in alphabetical order).
Located in “The Camp” center, which even has a cool parking lot (neat affirmations written in each spot), 118 Degrees is a true gem among the casual atmosphere of its surroundings.
I’ve dined at this raw restaurant twice, both around brunch time. Their brunch is fantastic and the service, wonderful. Enjoy a calming, neutral color scheme offset by burnt orange chairs and colorful artwork. Ease into the soft yet upbeat background music, and let the modern exposed-cement floor plant you firmly in love with the atmosphere and your sweetie!
Must-try meals: yogi juice (sans bee pollen), caramel crepes, “fried” avocado tacos
118 Degrees has two other locations, one in Anaheim and another in Laguna Niguel.
Click HERE to make a reservation.
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One of my personal NYC favorites! Whether you’re there for brunch, lunch, or dinner Blossom on Carmine never fails to exude professional, detailed care and attention to both their customers and their food. Dinners are particularly romance-inducing, with their mood light mastery and cozy, warm color scheme.
Must-try meals: black-eyed pea potato cakes, seitan picatta, passion fruit margarita cheesecake
Blossom also has three other fine dining restaurants in the NYC area (another of which has made the list, below), and three “du jour” locations, which are focused on raw to-go food, snacks, smoothies, and fresh juices.
Click HERE to make a reservation.
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Stare lovingly across the table under a starry sky on the Café’s outdoor patio while enjoying a healthy raw meal at the restaurant that I’ve declared as having THE best ice cream in the country. Yes, I’m serious. It may be raw but it is also like nothing you’ll ever have elsewhere.
New to vegan and/or raw food? Ask Café 118‘s knowledgable and kind staff about how they prepare and create their beautiful meals! Revel in their fresh juices, smoothies, milkshakes, amazing entrees AND desserts.
Must-try meals: crispy vegetable rolls, raw s’mores, and cacao mint chip ice cream
Click HERE to make a reservation.
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Likely the first restaurant idling on the tip of the tongue of someone answering the question, “I’m headed to NYC, where should I eat first?” Candle 79 has long been considered one of the best all-around vegan restaurants in the country. Opt for seating on the über cozy second floor, for a coo-worthy evening you’ll be talking about for ages.
Must-try meals: grilled seitan chimichurri, warm brussels sprouts salad, porcini crusted tofu
There are two other restaurants associated with Candle 79 including Candle Cafe West and The Candle Cafe.
Click HERE to make a reservation.
Above photos by Candle 79, Choosing Raw, Vegan and So Forth, and A Soy Bean Blog.
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“The Mediterranean-themed vegan restaurant opened in March [2013] and serves up a fine-dining yet playful experience, courtesy of Oprah’s former chef Tal Ronnen. Popular plates include the Artichoke Oysters, Kale Spanakopita, Wood-Fired Meaty Lasagna and Scallopini with Marsala-Glazed Morel Mushrooms.” – laist
Had to pull up a quote on this one because this is the one restaurant of the bunch I have yet to visit. From all the buzz though I can tell you I am eagerly looking forward to my first trip to Crossroads. It’s high expectation-ville over here!
Click HERE to make a reservation.
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Recede into the unexpectedly serene waterside deck under the stars. Or bask in the fresh evening air on the open villa-style, covered seating area. Between the tropical setting and the tantalizing foodie options, Darbster will make you want to flirt the night away with your love… or maybe even with your meal. Add in stellar service and moon-lighting for a perfectly romantic escape.
Must-try meals: cream of asparagus soup, palm cakes, chocolate ganache cake
Darbster (named after the family dog, Darby) has another location in Boca Raton.
Click HERE to make a reservation.
Above photos by Darbster, Being Green Saving Green, and My Very Vegan Life.
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Tuck yourselves into one of G-Zen‘s cozy corners, sip a ZenGria, and fade into the enchanting energy within. Exposed white brick pillars, accented by wooden floor to ceiling textured art and patterns set the ambiance to “just right” as you scan the restaurant’s abundant menu.
Must-try meals: raw tacos, portobello Neapolitan tofu, ray of the sun dae (pictured at the very top of this blog post)
Check out GMonkey Mobile, G-Zen’s sister food truck that runs seasonly, powered by solar panels and bio diesel veggie grease.
Click HERE to make a reservation.
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Walk in, slip off your shoes, and get comfortable on the authentic floor seating of New York Cities Korean vegan restaurant. Let the warm toned earthy decor transport you from the busy city streets to the tranquility of Hangawi. This paired with superior service and food presented in unique, fun ways – sit back, relax, and nosh away.
Must-try meals: avocado clay pot rice bowl, prix fix tasting menu, chocolate pudding.
Click HERE to make a reservation.
Above photos by Zegat, Divine Glowing Health, and Teeny Tiny Turkey(Flickr).
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With a great mix of raw and cooked dishes, incredible desserts, beautiful lighting, and impeccable service, Karyn’s On Green has become one of Chicago’s premiere fine dining restaurants. Get dolled up, walk arm-in-arm, and enjoy canoodling over your table for two.
Must-try meals: “chorizo” sliders, “crab” cakes, warm chocolate cake, fried ice cream.
For those of you interested in a brunch date: rumor has it Karyn’s on Green hosts a mean weekend brunch buffet at a great price.
Click HERE to make a reservation.
Photos above from Karyn’s on Green and In Johnas Kitchen.
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Step into what feels like a completely different world when you enter Mi Lah from within Rittenhouse Square. Known for their Saturday brunch, Mi Lah offers vegan omelets, Belgian waffles, breakfast quesadillas, pancakes, and more in addition to their lunch and dinner items. Sounds like a great way to start the Saturday after Valentine’s Day this year. <3
Must-try meals: omelet, cheesesteak sandwich, Vietnamese hoagie.
Click HERE to make a reservation.
Second two photos above from Hello PA blog.
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A restaurant that need no introduction, Millennium has been on the vegan fine dining scene perhaps longer than any of its fellow restaurants on this list. Well-known for being one of the most loved and sought after dining experiences of any vegan I’ve ever known, this restaurant’s menu shines with extreme warmth and vigor.
Visiting San Francisco? Snag a room in the hotel that Millennium resides within and you’ll never have to go more than a few steps to earth shaking meal after meal. Food coma? No problem, your room is just steps away! Turnin’ up the heat on your dinner for two? Not to worry, your room is just steps away! 😉
Must-try meals: chef’s tasting menu, roasted beets, lemongrass risotto cake, chocolate almond midnight mousse cake.
They’ve got it all: style, class, charisma, attentive and knowledgable staff, and food that’ll rock your world.
Click HERE to make a reservation.
Photos above from Eat Speak SF blog.
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The only restaurant not-to-miss when you’re in Asheville – Plant is downright riveting! It’s all about the food here so strap on your foodie goggles and indulge; this restaurant makes a perfect date night for you and your tastebuds. Plus the head chef and owners are incredibly passionate and truly appear to love what they do and why they do it, which seems to translate into some incredibly full-flavored dishes!
Must-try meals: cheese plate, peppercorn crusted seitan, blackout mousse pie, peanut butter crunch ice cream.
Click HERE to make a reservation.
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Seeking a quaint, serene locale to get lost in each others eyes and in the food of the hour? Plum Bistro will take you there with a great upbeat atmosphere, gorgeous plating, and some of the best meals in the country. Cozy up and dive in, you’re going to be here for a while.
Must-try meals: mac and yease (best in the country), beet & yam fries, pear seitan steak.
Click HERE to make a reservation.
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Italian fine dining has never looked or tasted better. Consider dining solo at Portobello Vegan Trattoria as you’re going to want every single last itty bitty speck of food all to yourself. Unquestionably one of the top vegan restaurants in the country, Portobello has mastered the art of unique pairings, the dichotomy of punchy yet subtle flavors, presentation, style, service, and decor all under one roof. This one’s for the books, folks. For. The. Books.
Must-try meals: beet tartare (possibly the best appetizer in the country), sweety peps, gnocchi, ice cream sundae (the best in the country).
Click HERE to make a reservation.
The first two photos above are from In the Mood for Noodles blog.
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With a brightly colored interior, blissful energy, and a wonderfully friendly staff, Present Moment Cafe is sure to make you and your sweetie feel lighter and healthier than when you first sat down. This organic raw restaurant, set in charming St. Augustine, FL, is ideal for those who’d rather avoid post-meal food comas, and opt for an after-dinner stroll along the waterfront in the nation’s oldest city.
Must-try meals: nachos, pad thai, brownie sundae.
Click HERE to make a reservation.
Photos above from augustine.com and Photos From Julie.
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Arguably one of the most popular raw food restaurants in the country, Pure Food & Wine stands apart in beauty, style, and character. Seeking the ever coveted outdoor seating experience in one of the busiest cities in the world? You will find it here – a luxurious and considerably vast outdoor arrangment. Indulge in a healthful meal over a candlelit, starry evening, followed by a stroll through Union Square. It’ll surely be a night to remember.
Must-try meals: cheese plate, tamales, tasting menu, mint sundae.
Click HERE to make a reservation.
Photos above from Pure Food & Wine and Living on the Vedge.
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Ready to impress your partner with THE ultimate vegan getaway? How about a stay at the Sanford Inn by the Sea – an all-vegan Inn!! – accompanied by daily meals at the in-house eatery, Ravens’ Restaurant. Wood burning fireplaces in every room, a holistic wellness center, and ocean views set within what feels like it’s own oasis, away from the rest of the world, this Inn/restaurant combo will have you begging to stay longer.
Must-try meals: savory crepe, Indian spice polenta Napoleon, Ravens’ chocolate tart.
Click HERE to make a reservation.
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Sushi lovers, this one’s for you. Allow yourself to be captivated by the level of attentive service that the staff at Shojin offers up. It’s practically unmatched! Pair this detail with comfortable seating, an intimate atmosphere, and the most uniquely plated and highest quality vegan sushi in the country (yes, it’s hands down THE best), and you’ve got the ultimate setting for a night of fine dining + romance.
Must-try meals: dynamite roll, pirates of the crunchy, ramen revolution, chocolate cake.
Insider’s tip: Don’t let the somewhat sketchy, empty, mall-like building that Shojin is housed in, deter you. Once you’re in (the restaurant) it’s quite beautiful. 🙂
Click HERE to make a reservation.
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A town (and restaurant) that all too often get overlooked, New Hope has got to be one of the most charming little towns in the whole country. Add in a world class vegan restaurant and really, there’s not a reason to leave!
Sprig & Vine is absolutely dynamite and one of the best run, most cared for restaurants I’ve ever been to. In addition to an über driven, kind, and talented owner/head chef, super friendly staff, and a beautifully crafted fine dining experience, the food here is wow-mazing. It’s worth a mini road trip, or an extended getaway!
Must-try meals: fried green tomatoes, cornmeal crusted tempeh, chocolate mousse pie (OMG).
Click HERE to make a reservation.
Photos above are by Derin Akyar.
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Plan for an extravagant evening at one of Florida’s most sought after vegan establishments. Frequented by well-known veg celebrities and featured in numerous local and nation-wide publications and blogs, Sublime has built a positively [plant]strong reputation.
Complete with a full waterfall wall, beautiful green accents throughout, a relaxing vibe, and really cool seating that includes semi-circular squishy couch-like booths, these guys know what’s up in terms of turning on the romance factor. Plus, the servers (all dressed to match) are wonderful, and the food is equally marvelous.
Must-try meals: sliders, mushroom ravioli, key lime cheesecake.
Click HERE to make a reservation.
The first photo above is from Miami Green Guide.
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Warm, inviting colors, cozy corners to get lost in, and mood lighting that’s so perfect you won’t be able to get one good photo of your meal ..haha.. SunCafe is another of the organic, raw food variety to add to your list! Who knew raw could be so romanic?! 😉
Romance doesn’t alway equal getting dressed up and walking funny in heels, so take this one formal or not. Either way SunCafe will satisfy your cravings for rich, high energy foods to keep you goin’ all night long. Ha.
Must-try meals: kale smoothie, lettuce leaf tacos, nachos, sun burger, cookie dough cheesecake.
Click HERE to make a reservation.
Photos above by Cadry’s Kitchen and Fabliss.
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One of my personal all-time favorites in terms of quality, authenticity, service, atmosphere, and downright amazing food-ness, True Bistro remains a steady leader (in my book) for the best-of-the-best all-around vegan establishments.
For both THE romantic dinner and the morning after/weekend brunch, True Bistro has got it. Modern, pristine black and white decor, gently accented by bright flowers and greens; a dedicated staff, great energy, and food that’ll knock your socks off (which might help save some time later *wink*wink*), I truly love this place. There’s nothing else like it in the New England area. Go. Now.
Must-try meals: biscuits & sausage, rolled crepes, cornmeal-crusted oyster mushrooms, blackened seitan, death by chocolate cake.
Click HERE to make a reservation.
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Put on your favorite sassy outfit and get excited for a luxurious brunch, lunch, or dinner at V-Note. Touted as a wine bar and bistro, V-Note specializes in tapas and biodynamic, organic, and sustainable wines, as well as a mix of some of the more popular items that you might recognize from V-Note’s sister restaurant, Blossom.
Complete with multi-level seating, throw pillows, and the kind of romance-inducing vibe you’d expect from an NYC hotspot, V-Note is one to move to the top of your list for a classy night out on the town.
Must-try meals: soy bacon burger, sweet potato gnocchi, seitan schnitzel, tiramisu.
Click HERE to make a reservation.
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Philly’s finest fare! If there was ever a restaurant to lose yourself in, this is the one. Never have I seen someone do with vegetables what Chef Richard Landau can do. Innovation at it’s finest, Vedge is quickly becoming known as one of the top restaurants (vegan or otherwise) in the country.
Blazing with class, confidence, and romance, Vedge is worth taking a special trip for: servers in matching uniforms, management in suits and ties, incredible attention to detail surrounding the decor and atmosphere, they really have thought of everything.
Must-try meals: salt-roasted golden beets, sweet potato paté, cheesecake.. also, everything.
Bonus: With an all-vegan coffeehouse and all-vegan pizzeria nearby, paired with great touristy things to do and see, it’s worth your time to go for the food and stay for the… food. 🙂
Click HERE to make a reservation.
Have you been to any of these restaurants? Which one is your favorite? And which would you vote as the most romantic of them all?! 🙂
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