Vegilicious! 20+ Vegan & Vegetarian Dining Options

With 20 Plus Delicious Dining Options, Gainesville, Alachua County, is one of the most Vegan and Vegetarian Friendly Destinations in Florida.

plate of vegan and vegetarian food

Featured in VegNews magazine as “The Most Vegan-Friendly City You Never Heard Of,” Gainesville, Alachua County, features mouthwatering, delectable options when it comes to vegan and vegetarian dining. (Read the article by Lauren Keys here.) 

There are many local restaurants that offer vegan options on their menu. And even more that offer vegetarian dishes.

Below is a list of vegan-friendly restaurants, farmers’ markets, and farm animal sanctuaries. Also, you can sort through the delicious dining page on the Visit Gainesville, Alachua County website. If we missed any of your favorites, be sure to let us know!

Boca Fiesta
Boca Fiesta is a locally owned Mexican-style restaurant serving up eclectic tacos and burritos in downtown Gainesville. Most of their dishes can be made vegan with tasty TVP or tempeh for your tacos, burritos, nachos, or as a salad topping.

Chop Stix Cafe
Chop Stix Cafe has an extensive pan-Asian cuisine with a large variety of healthy vegan and vegetarian dishes to choose from.

Curia on the Drag
Located on a 2.5-acre oasis, Curia on the Drag is home to a permanent food truck that has a plant-based only menu. On site is a coffee shop with irresistible desserts and pastries, Dad’s Bar serving up tasty drinks, beer, and wine (located in the back of the Auk Market boutique).

Frenchmen Street Food
Driven by a passion for vegan cuisine, Frenchmen Street Food was born. Unveiling its delicious dishes to the world in October 2021, the Frenchmen Street Food Truck, affectionately referred to by locals as “Sweet Pea,” has traversed a flavorful journey across Florida, treating crowds to its delectable dishes of spicy Cajun food, both savory and cruelty-free!

Humble Wood Fire
The team at Humble Wood Fire can make everything on their menu gluten-free or vegan upon request. They are known for their Neapolitan-style thin-crust wood-fired pizzas, delicious bagels and breakfast sandwiches with mouth-watering toppings. Look for their permanent location in the 4th Avenue Food Park or the pizza trailer at Depot Park.

Joyfully Baked
Vegan deliciousness – donuts, cakes, cookies, ice cream, and more! Joyfully Baked is a vegan bakery that also offers gluten-free options. 

Indian Cuisine Restaurant 
With a menu full of vegetarian delights, this restaurant offers authentic curries and numerous specialties. 

Karma Cream
Soy-based vegan ice cream cones are just the start! This cafe offers vegan sandwiches, ice cream, and baked goods.

Krishna Lunch 
Famous for the $5 all-you-can-eat lunch at Plaza of the Americas on the UF campus. It’s a great place to meet for a super casual, unique, and healthy lunch.

Mint Indian Cuisine
Tasty vegetarian Indian restaurant that can make all dishes vegan. Minimal space inside with some outdoor seating. 

Muñecas Taco Garden
The new menu has options for vegans (tempeh and tofu type bowls, plus tempeh tacos) and many options for carnivores as well.

One Love Cafe
One Love Cafe is located in the heart of Magnolia Parke with outdoor patio seating and a massive pet-friendly field. They host farmers’ markets and have live music often. Check their website for the schedule and their menu.

Pink Flamingo Diner (High Springs) (closed for renovations)
The Pink Flamingo Diner is a traditional diner that offers creative vegan menu options and mini-golf (ok – that is not so traditional!). They have two separate kitchens – one is completely vegan, and the other is for all of the other food – so impressive!

The Great Outdoors (High Springs)
With the same owner as the Pink Flamingo Diner, it is no surprise that this high-end establishment also has great vegan options on its menu. Go on a weekend evening and enjoy live music on the patio.

The Top 
As their website says, The Top caters to vegan, vegetarian, and meat-loving carnivores alike. The Top is one of Gainesville’s more popular restaurants, with a fun vibe, indoor and outdoor seating, and a full bar.   

Vegan Gator Food Truck 
It is best to be the first in line for this food truck as it often sells out thanks to its great food and dedicated following. 
The Vegan Gator parks at 220 NW 8th Ave. in Gainesville, right next to Joyfully Baked.

high springs farmers market tomatoes | vegan and vegetarian

Farmers Market – Vegan and Vegetarian Options

Farmers’ markets are a delightful way to meet locals, learn about interesting local businesses, and indulge in fresh, delicious foods! 
 
Alachua County Farmer’s Market
This “growers only” market is impressive. Be sure to arrive early for the best selection. 
Saturdays, 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Cypress & Grove Farmer’s Market
This vibrant, weekly farmers’ market is located in the Grove Street neighborhood.
Mondays, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Haile Farmer’s Market
This neighborhood event brings the local community together through accessible food and craft. With over 50 registered yearly vendors, Haile Farmers Market is a rapidly growing market. Saturdays, 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

High Springs Farmer’s Market
Food, arts, music, and more, this farmer’s market is open all year round. 
Fridays, 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.
 
Waldo Farmer’s Market
A combination of a farmer’s market and flea market, vendors offer “everything from green beans to blue jeans!”
Saturdays and Sundays, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Gainesville is also home to many farm animal sanctuaries. 

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