Best Cheap Vegan Restaurants in Chicago | Cheap & Vegan

30 restaurants in Best Cheap Vegan Restaurants in Chicago | Cheap & Vegan

• Dat Donut — American · rated 5/5: The intoxicating scent of warm yeast and simmering sugar beckons from this neighborhood staple, where glass counters glow with a mosaic of golden-brown glazes and oversized, pillowy treats. Whether you are marveling at the legendary scale of the Big Dat or savoring the crisp, cinnamon-laced ridges of a craggy apple fritter, every bite offers a nostalgic embrace of classic morning comfort.
• Pullman Club Coffee Shop — American · rated 5/5: Stepping into this sophisticated sanctuary feels like entering a refined transit lounge of a bygone era, where the rich, nutty fragrance of artisanal espresso mingles with the delicate steam of steeping Earl Grey. Skilled baristas transform daily rituals into an art form, crafting everything from velvety, micro-foamed lattes to effervescent nitro cold brews that cascade with a smooth, creamy finish. It is a polished retreat where the spicy glow of turmeric ginger tea and the bold snap of a cortado offer a moment of quiet elegance amidst the rush of the day.
• Capri Lounge & Grill — Italian · rated 5/5: Capri Lounge & Grill invites guests into a vibrant, social atmosphere where the comforting aroma of slow-baked lasagna and rich, velvety vodka sauce sets the stage for a soulful Italian feast. From the crisp snap of calamari fritti to the delicate tenderness of expertly prepared veal and fresh catches of the day, every dish celebrates bold Mediterranean flavors in a space that seamlessly blends upscale lounging with the heart of a traditional grill.
• Al Bawadi Grill — Middle Eastern · rated 5/5: Al Bawadi Grill captures the vibrant spirit of Middle Eastern hospitality, welcoming guests into a space where the bright, herbaceous aromas of the Levant fill the air. Crisp, garden-fresh salads like zesty Taboulah and sumac-dusted Fattoush provide a refreshing burst of color and crunch, perfectly balanced by the comforting, earthy warmth of traditional lentil and toasted freekah soups. This is a culinary oasis where ancient recipes and sun-ripened ingredients come together to create a soulful, communal dining experience.
• Justice of the Pies — American · rated 5/5: The air is thick with the intoxicating scent of caramelized sugar and buttery, golden-brown pastry, drawing visitors into a space where the humble pie is elevated to a culinary art form. From flaky, savory quiches bursting with seasonal ingredients to decadent sweet fillings nestled in artisanal crusts, every slice offers a masterclass in texture and balance. It is a soulful sanctuary that celebrates the craft of baking, turning simple, honest ingredients into a symphony of comfort and refinement.
• Intelligentsia Coffee — American · rated 5/5: Sunlight streams through expansive windows into a minimalist sanctuary where the rhythmic hum of grinders and the bright, floral aroma of freshly brewed single-origin beans create a haven for the discerning coffee purist. Artisan baristas wield digital scales with scientific precision to extract the nuanced flavors of the Black Cat Project espresso and rare, small-lot selections, transforming every pour into a masterclass of seasonal character and technical mastery. It is a space where the ritual of the morning cup is elevated to an art form, inviting guests to linger over the complex profiles of meticulously sourced blends.
• O'Shaughnessy's — American · rated 5/5: Step into a spirited neighborhood haunt where the golden warmth of flaky sausage rolls and the savory aroma of curry-drenched chips invite long afternoons of easy conversation. The kitchen balances hearty pub comforts like beans on toast and loaded crisps with refined touches like delicate smoked salmon platters and vibrant, crisp salads. Whether you are tucking into a basket of spicy buffalo chicken or exploring plant-based favorites, every plate captures a sense of soulful, unpretentious hospitality.
• NYC Bagel Deli — American · rated 5/5: The air hums with the energy of a classic New York morning, thick with the irresistible aroma of golden-toasted bagels and the rich, dark notes of freshly brewed coffee. Whether you’re biting into a steam-venting breakfast sandwich or sharing a crisp, bubbling pizza, every dish celebrates the hearty, unpretentious soul of the city’s iconic deli culture. From the satisfying crunch of house-made bagel chips to the sweet finish of a decadent dessert, this vibrant neighborhood cornerstone transforms simple ingredients into a comforting, all-day feast.
• Chicago French Market — French · rated 5/5: Nestled within the vibrant, European-inspired bustle of the city’s premier food hall, this boutique destination elevates pet treats to an artisanal art form. Amidst the lively hum of the market, pet owners discover wholesome, human-grade snacks and all-natural chews, offering a gourmet experience that ensures four-legged companions enjoy the same quality and care as their owners.
• Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio — Italian · rated 5/5: Sunlight dances across flour-dusted counters where the art of the pastificio comes to life, inviting guests into a vibrant space that hums with the energy of handmade pasta production. The air is rich with the aroma of simmering Amatriciana and spiced lamb merguez, as plates of delicate gnocchetti and herb-brightened pasta fredda showcase a masterful blend of rustic Italian soul and contemporary culinary imagination.
• Amy's Candy Bar — American · rated 5/5: This whimsical boutique confectionery invites guests into a vibrant world of sugar-spun dreams, where the air is perpetually sweet with the scent of toasted marshmallow and rich, molten cocoa. Handcrafted treasures like the decadent S’MORES bar and sea-salt-dusted English toffee line the shelves, offering a sophisticated reimagining of childhood nostalgia through artisanal techniques. From the viral, pistachio-filled crunch of the Dubai chocolate bar to the buttery pull of gourmet caramels, every bite captures a playful yet refined indulgence that celebrates the art of the sweet treat.
• Bitter Pops — American · rated 5/5: Bitter Pops serves as a vibrant crossroads for discovery, where the air is filled with the hum of conversation and the clinking of glasses filled with everything from zesty California Albariños to soulful, amphora-aged Slovenian reds. This spirited destination invites guests to explore a meticulously curated world of flavor, pairing the relaxed warmth of a neighborhood haunt with a sophisticated collection of rare Austrian Zweigelts and elegant French Pinots that turn every pour into a global adventure.
• Pilot Project Brewing — American · rated 5/5: This dynamic brewery incubator serves as a collaborative playground for liquid innovation, where the air hums with the spirit of discovery and the clinking of glasses filled with everything from botanical hard kombuchas to spiced golden ales. Guests embark on a sensory journey through a diverse landscape of flavors, sipping on vibrant mango-infused IPAs or daring pickle-brined brews within a modern, communal space that celebrates the next generation of craft pioneers.
• Beacon Doughnuts — American · rated 5/5: Step into a sugary sanctuary where the air is thick with the scent of warm yeast and simmering maple, inviting guests to discover a world of artisanal, hand-crafted confections. Pillowy brioche rounds are transformed into decadent masterpieces like the tart Raspberry Bismarck and rich Maple Bourbon Crunch, while craggy, golden-brown apple fritters and inventive old-fashioneds offer a satisfying, nostalgic crunch. Whether it’s the playful pop of birthday cake sprinkles or the sophisticated depth of a cold brew-infused glaze, each treat serves as a vibrant, edible celebration of the baker’s craft.
• Kumiko — Japanese · rated 5/5: Stepping into Kumiko feels like entering a serene sanctuary where the precision of Japanese hospitality meets the soulful warmth of a seasonal tasting journey. Each meticulously crafted course finds its perfect liquid counterpart through an artistic array of pairings, ranging from the delicate notes of premium sake to sophisticated spirit-free creations and expertly shaken or stirred cocktails that elevate the evening into a choreographed symphony of flavor.
• Strugglebeard Bakery — American · rated 5/5: This artisanal bakery fills the air with the intoxicating aroma of toasted pecans and browned butter, inviting guests to discover a world of decadently oversized, hand-crafted cookies. Each bite offers a symphony of textures, from the gooey richness of a caramel turtle to the nostalgic, melt-in-your-mouth sweetness of a classic lunchroom butter cookie. It is a sanctuary of sweetness where traditional flavors are elevated with soulful flair, creating a comforting experience that lingers long after the last crumb is gone.
• Magnifico Coffee — Italian · rated 5/5: This sanctuary for coffee purists hums with the rhythmic grind of artisanal beans, where the air is perpetually perfumed with the bright, floral notes of rare Geshas and the deep, caramelized warmth of small-batch roasts. Each pour-over and pull of espresso celebrates the distinct terroir of global estates, inviting guests to linger over the nuanced flavors of Finca Huehuetepan or the crisp, refreshing clarity of a signature cold brew. It is a space where the ritual of the brew becomes an art form, offering a sophisticated escape for those who seek the perfect balance of science and soul in every cup.
• Deep Purpl — American · rated 5/5: Vibrant hues and bold flavors collide in this modern sanctuary, where the deep, velvety purple of artisanal acai bowls provides a refreshing counterpoint to the golden, flaky warmth of hand-crafted Argentinian empanadas. From the satisfying crunch of thick-cut toasts topped with creamy avocado or rich hazelnut to the savory comfort of buttery shrimp and grits, every dish is a playful celebration of fresh ingredients and global inspiration.
• El Capitan Snacks and Cafe — Mexican · rated 5/5: El Capitan Snacks and Cafe invites a spirit of conviviality with its bountiful platters of artfully rolled wraps and dainty petite sandwiches, designed for effortless sharing among friends and family. The savory experience gives way to a whimsical finale as the aroma of cinnamon-dusted churros fills the air, served golden-brown and crisp or piled high in indulgent, chocolate-drizzled sundaes.
• Smakosz Restaurant — Polish · rated 5/5: Smakosz Restaurant invites guests into a world of old-world comfort, where the steam from hearty bowls of sour rye soup and ruby-red borsch carries the savory scent of tradition through a warm, welcoming dining room. From the satisfying crunch of golden-fried potato pancakes to the delicate pleats of handmade pierogi, every dish offers a soulful journey through the rich, rustic flavors of the Polish countryside.
• Paulina Meat Market — American · rated 5/5: Step into a carnivore’s sanctuary where the savory perfume of slow-braised lamb and zesty BBQ brisket fills the air, signaling a deep-rooted commitment to artisanal butchery and soulful comfort. The kitchen bridges the gap between playful snacks and elegant classics, offering everything from crispy pork lumpia and golden mac-and-cheese bites to the refined, flaky decadence of a beef Wellington pie. Each visit delivers a rustic warmth that celebrates the craft of the market, turning hearty staples like velvety beef stroganoff into a truly indulgent and nostalgic dining experience.
• Irish Times — American · rated 5/5: Irish Times welcomes guests into a warm, wood-hued retreat where the air is thick with the savory aroma of pub-style indulgence and the convivial clink of raised glasses. The kitchen masters the craft of the shareable feast, offering everything from salt-dusted pretzel bites and molten cheese curds to signature corned beef bites that provide a crispy, flavorful nod to tradition. It is a vibrant neighborhood anchor where the comfort of classic finger foods and a spirited atmosphere turn every casual gathering into a festive occasion.
• Hermosa — Spanish · rated 5/5: Hermosa transforms humble ingredients into a vibrant celebration of Cambodian heritage, where the golden, spice-kissed crunch of their signature fried chicken sandwich offers a masterclass in texture and heat. As evening falls, the space evolves into an intimate stage for an expansive eleven-course family meal, a communal journey of bold aromatics and soul-warming flavors that feels like a cherished invitation into a private home.
• Imperial Oak Brewing — American · rated 5/5: This inviting taproom serves as a sanctuary for bold flavors, where the warmth of polished wood meets the rich, complex aromas of barrel-aged porters and velvety imperial stouts. Guests can lose themselves in the deep, charred-oak notes of a potent barleywine or share a bubbling, thin-crust pizza in an atmosphere that seamlessly shifts from the zen of a morning yoga session to the lively hum of a neighborhood gathering spot.
• Bittersweet Pastry Shop — French · rated 5/5: The air at Bittersweet Pastry Shop is thick with the irresistible scent of caramelized sugar and cultured butter, drawing guests into a sun-drenched space where artisanal craft takes center stage. Glass cases overflow with golden, shatteringly crisp croissants and rustic fruit-studded clafoutis, while savory quiches rich with Gruyere offer a decadent counterpoint to the sticky, nut-topped rolls. Every bite, from the snap of a fresh baguette to the delicate layers of a pain au chocolat, captures the timeless elegance of a classic neighborhood patisserie.
• Love & Light Cafe — American · rated 5/5: Sunlight streams through the windows of this vibrant neighborhood sanctuary, where the comforting aroma of griddled French toast and golden, caramelized pearl waffles fills the air. Guests find a perfect balance of indulgence and wellness, lingering over buttery croissant sandwiches and hearty breakfast platters or opting for nourishing avocado toast and light, protein-packed eggwiches.
• Reuter's Bakery — American · rated 5/5: Step into a nostalgic neighborhood sanctuary where the air is thick with the comforting scent of toasted flour and simmering fruit. Glass cases overflow with golden, flaky treasures, from the whimsical sugary peaks of marshmallow horns to rustic open-faced pastries brimming with vibrant glazes of apple and blueberry. Each bite of their buttery short-dough pretzels or crisp, fruit-filled turnovers captures the timeless charm of a traditional bake shop, offering a sweet, hand-crafted escape from the daily rush.
• Imperial Oak Brewing — American · rated 4/5: Stepping into Imperial Oak Brewing feels like entering a sanctuary for the bold, where the air is thick with the rich, malty aroma of barrel-aged stouts and complex, high-gravity ales. Guests settle in with velvety pours of the legendary Quiet Giant or the robust Ragnarok, pairing these deep, dark elixirs with the crispy, comforting warmth of a thin-crust Candlelite Pizza. It is a space where craftsmanship meets community, offering a robust sensory journey through every barrel-aged note and perfectly charred slice.
• Dell Rhea's Chicken Basket — American · rated 4/5: This legendary roadside landmark captures the heart of classic Americana, welcoming guests into a nostalgic space where the comforting scent of golden-fried goodness fills the air. Plates overflow with crispy corn fritters and molten mac-and-cheese balls, while the sprawling buffet invites diners to linger over hearty helpings of soulful comfort food. It is a warm, unpretentious retreat where every bite—from the crunch of a sweet onion ring to a salt-dusted giant pretzel—celebrates the simple joy of a well-loved tradition.
• inkwell — American · rated 4/5: Bathed in a sophisticated, low-lit glow, inkwell serves as a stylish retreat where the ritual of the cocktail meets a curated parade of elevated snacks. Guests linger over decadent caviar service and airy honey-whipped ricotta, while the kitchen transforms comfort into art through buttery crab toast and molten chocolate lava cakes. Whether sipping a clever "Not An Espresso Martini" or sharing a board of artisanal salumi, the experience is one of effortless elegance and lingering conversation.