Columbus Ohio is known to be full of innovators, artists, techies and a young modern crowd so it’s no surprise a vast range of vegetarian and vegan eateries have been popping up all over town.
Often known as the go-to place for new food ideas, Columbus is the birthplace of many popular chains and is now home to a wealth of independent businesses. Full of parks and shopping outlets it’s become an incredibly diverse city attracting more business every year.
And with speedy on-street parking using the ‘ParkColumbus’ app you can pull up and head into one of these amazing vegetarian restaurants in Columbus with ease.
So join us as we show you some of the best places for vegetarian food in the city!
Six Exceptional Vegan & Vegetarian Restaurants In Columbus: Food Worth Waiting For!
1. The Lifestyle Café
Chilled out vegan café with mostly soy-free original dishes
Right in the heart of Columbus, you’ll find this brunch/lunch style chilled-out café with wooden floors, brick walls, foliage and calming shades of green.
The perfect daytime place for food, The Lifestyle Café has an intimate indoor space with small tables, and outdoor seating in warmer weather and is right next to on-street parking. Founded by Shanna Dean, the focus of the café is on a cleaner lifestyle while enjoying flavoursome food.
Their food is never genetically modified, mostly soy-free and completely plant-based producing vegan meals and sweet treats. The atmosphere of the café is loved by locals who enjoy the background music being played and have high praises for the warm, welcoming staff here.
The menu comprises brunch, all day menu and teas, giving customers plenty to choose from throughout the day.
You’ll find a mixture of meat alternatives if you’re new to veganism and vegetarianism as well as some in-house creations such as a coconut BLT. A much-loved choice in the community, the BLT consists of Lifestyle’s homemade coconut bacon, sweet earth, spring mix, tomato, basil pesto, and avocado aioli on sourdough, a must-try.
However the star of the show according to regulars is the indulgent Chicken N Waffles including Red Mills gluten-free all-purpose flour and spelt flour waffle with cinnamon and coconut sugar brulée, soy-based or mushroom fried chicken topped with maple syrup and house maple cream.
The generous portions found here will also likely amaze you and with some gluten-free options to be enjoyed this is surely a great brunch or lunch choice for anyone. Kids are certain to enjoy the food too, just be prepared for the large portions!
The Lifestyle Café enjoys putting on taco Tuesdays as well, which are not to be missed. And if you don’t want to lose out on their exclusive events you can sign up via their website to become a V.I.P member. This allows you to receive updates on exclusive events, secret menus, special offers and discounts, as well as loyalty rewards.
The Lifestyle Café is not to be missed, and is easily one of our top choices for brunch and lunch when it comes to vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Columbus, Ohio.
Address: 891 Oak St, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
Opening Times: Tues-Sun 10:00-15:00
2. 4th & State
Veganised traditional diner dishes from brunch to dinner for some comfort food
This upmarket diner-style vegan restaurant is a fantastic option for some seriously good comfort food. Founded by Chad Goodwin, co-owner of Eden Burger and parents Charles and Jana Goodwin, this family has food service in their blood.
You’ll find 4th & State exactly where you expect to find it, the clue’s in the name, and parking can be found all around making for an easy stop off.
Passionate about serving good food while being conscious of the planet, 4th & State serves traditional diner dishes made with plant-based ingredients including replacements for your breakfast eggs!
Inside the restaurant is spacious with tasteful black and wood decor, and exposed brick. With chic limited outdoor seating and parasols for warmer days, you’ll find this an inviting environment to dine in.
The staff are wonderfully attentive and kind in this chill setting as you’re served some incredible dishes. The menu showcases everything from brunch items such as pancakes, french toast, omelettes, and sandwiches to all-day items such as bowls, wraps, patty melts and pizza.
The Breakfast Bowl is hugely popular and this includes egg, soy chorizo, homefries, peppers, onions, cheddar cheeze, pico de gallo, sour cream and the show-stopping chipotle aioli drizzle.
But if you’re more of a sweet tooth, many recommend the pancakes, in particular the delicious Cinnabun Pancakes which include cinnamon and cream cheese drizzle. Locals and visitors alike can’t get over the fact that this food is 100% plant-based, so it’s a perfect stop for any cynical meat eaters in your life.
There have been some fantastic gluten-free options here too including a past favourite of Chorizo Omelette including soy chorizo, onions, peppers, cheddar cheeze, green onions and that chipotle and aioli drizzle.
There is a small kids’ menu offering a selection of smaller items such as a simple grilled cheese, and each kid’s meal comes with fries. Rumour has it your little ones might be offered some colouring pages to enjoy as well!
4th & State is surely one of the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Columbus Ohio and ticks all the boxes you need for treating yourself.
Address: 152 E State St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
Opening Times: Mon-Fri 11:00-21:00, Sat-Sun 09:00-17:00
3. Woodhouse Vegan Cafe + Space
Modern dining space for seasonal vegan eats and bakery treats
This cosy, community-focused café found on the corner of 4th and 1st is an excellent choice for modern dining and offers a range of plant-based salads, sandwiches and daily specials. With free parking across the street, Woodhouse couldn’t be an easier pit stop for fresh food made in-house. This laid-back counter service café is perfect for a light and nutritious evening meal.
Enjoy a modern dining space with stools, tables, earthy colours and mood lighting. There’s even a lovely dog-friendly outdoor patio complete with wooden benches, parasols and blankets. The staff here are known to be super friendly as they get you set with some delicious seasonal dishes.
If you’re keen on getting some lunch on a Saturday you will find an array of sandwiches and bowls, bread and spread, as well as side dishes to satiate your hunger.
The dinner menu consists of even more options of loaded nachos, bowls and salads and select items on their kids’ menu including Grilled PBJ with chips and a juice box. A stand-out menu item for many is the flavoursome Elote Mac + Cheese with cavatappi noodles, oat milk cheddar, torched sweet corn, chipotle crema, chilli crunch, cotija crumbles and fresh cilantro.
There have been a fair few gluten-free options too including a delicious Peanut Stew with brown rice, collard greens, curly kale, fire-roasted tomatoes, red onion, peanuts, chilli garlic, micro greens and sriracha. Woodhouse vegan offers a vast range of drinks including beer and signature cocktails, and they showcase new bakery items every week. You can see the latest cakes and additions to the menu on their popular social media pages.
Woodhouse Vegan Café is certainly one of the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Columbus, Ohio and definitely worth a visit.
Address: 851 N 4th St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
Opening Times: Wed-Thurs and Sat 16:00-21:00, Fri 11:00-14:00 and 16:00-21:00
4. Ye’s Asian Vegan Kitchen
Fully vegan authentic Asian takeaway with a small dining space
Located in Hilliard on the Far West side of town, Ye’s Asian Vegan Kitchen offers the rare experience of a fully vegan Asian menu.
Serving authentic Chinese, Japanese, and Thai dishes, this Asian restaurant and takeaway has plenty of options that will even impress your cynical carnivore friends. Enjoy their lunch specials or have dinner in the evening and enjoy a range of flavours and textures. This restaurant and takeaway has limited indoor seating with easy access and plenty of parking. Like your average Chinese restaurant, the intimate dining space is unassuming but gives diners a calm and cozy dining experience with very friendly staff that run an efficient service.
The all-day menu offers a range of dishes from appetisers to soup and salad, as well as entrees, rice and noodle dishes plus lunch specials. Locals have praised the soy protein alternatives used here with many saying it mimics the texture of chicken rather well. Everything is always fresh and if you have any issues the staff are more than happy to assist you.
Popular dishes over the years have included huge entrees, as well as Pad Thai and Seitan Skewers consisting of tender seitan, grilled onion and bell peppers with a satay sauce. The vegetables are always tasting fresh and the sauces are just right for each dish.
Kids will enjoy this just as much as any other takeaway with plenty of suitable options on the main menu such as Golden Nuggets, that’s four crispy soy protein nuggets with a side of sweet and sour sauce. Staff go out of their way to accommodate dietary needs and can make some of the dishes gluten-free on request.
With a range of options and a no-fuss approach Ye’s Asian Vegan Kitchen is certainly one of the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Columbus, Ohio.
Address: 2469 Hilliard Rome Rd, Hilliard, OH 43026, USA
Opening Times: Mon-Sat 11:00-22:00, Sun 11:00-21:30
5. Portia’s Café
Multi-faceted vegan and gluten-free restaurant serving clean lifestyle dishes
Nutritious and delicious, Portia’s Café has a range of options for a healthy meal all day long. Presenting themselves as an inclusive space with the community at its heart, they endeavour to be conscious of the environment as well as the community they are amongst.
Portia’s Cafe in East Beechwood is not only vegan but entirely gluten-free, they use only filtered water and support local farmers avoiding genetically modified products! And if you’re visiting town there is plenty of parking in the back and either side of the building.
There’s a quaint café/shop vibe to the place that gives it a homey touch, with comfortable seats, colourful artwork on the walls and limited outdoor seating. The atmosphere is pleasant and relaxed with some of the friendliest staff around.
On the menu, you’ll find a range of dips served with your choice of dippers including chips, rice crackers or veggies, as well as soups, salads, deli items, bowls, quesadillas, desserts, smoothies, coffee and other drinks. You can also grab some tasty options from the breakfast menu including muffins, wraps and oats.
Favourites to grab here have included the Super Power Wrap which holds a generous portion of guacamole and raw falafel with shredded carrots, onions, clover sprouts, lettuce and raw creamy cashew dressing.
If you have a sweet tooth locals will say you simply must try desserts like the Cheezecake, a raw nut-and-date crust with various flavours of cashew-based topping. Kids will love it here if they’re into exploring fun and healthy food.
Plus not only is Portia’s Café catering to vegans and celiacs they even have menus for onion-free, garlic-free, nightshade-free and oil-free/fat-free customers.
The fresh and clean offerings at Portia’s really are top notch easily making it one of the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Columbus, Ohio.
Address: 4428 Indianola Ave, Columbus, OH 43214, USA
Opening Times: Mon-Sat 08:00-21:00, Sun 08:00-15:00
6. Greenhouse Canteen + Bar
100% vegan and gluten-free restaurant with generous portions
Not only is Greenhouse Canteen entirely plant-based, but it’s also entirely gluten-free! This is a gem of a restaurant for those with dietary concerns to enjoy flavoursome food without stress.
Beginning in Australia, Greenhouse Canteen offers plant-based nutritious food in a casual setting, toeing the line perfectly between fast-food and fine dining. Situated in the Fifth by Northwest neighborhood of Columbus, this establishment prides itself on supporting the vegan movement and being sensitive to those who suffer a gluten intolerance or allergy. With bright greens, cool slogans and artwork on the walls, the decor matches the modern seating with set wooden tables.
The atmosphere makes for a great meal out with efficient service and fun food. The menu offers a reasonable selection of small plates, bigger plates, sides and desserts and diners of all ages with an adventurous palate are sure to enjoy eating here.
A popular choice has been the gargantuan Mushroom Cheeseburger, this is a tempura mushroom bun, lentil and tofu pattie, pickled onion, brie cheese, seeded mustard, salad, and crispy kale that comes with shoestring fries. It’s so big you’d need a knife and fork to devour it! Locals have said they’ve found some of the best Cauliflower Wings here, consisting of seasoned besan battered florets with smoked house relish and ranch.
In addition to all this, there are some unique cocktails to choose from also. And if you need a gift for a plant-based gluten-free loved one, you can purchase a gift card for the restaurant so they can enjoy a meal out on you!
Greenhouse Canteen and Bar uniquely sits as one of very few 100% plant-based and gluten-free establishments around and is certainly one of the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Columbus, Ohio, as well.
Address: 1011 W 5th Ave, Columbus, OH 43212, USA
Opening Times: Tues-Thurs 17:00-21:00, Fri 17:00-22:00, Sat 12:00-15:00 and 17:00-22:00
