The Best Vegan Diner Food in America: From Viva Vegan to Sealevel City

The first American diner opened way back in the late 1800s (fun fact: it was based out of a horse-drawn wagon!), but to this day, these eateries—which specialize in quick, inexpensive food—are still symbolic of the US. They may have hit peak popularity in the ’50s, but diners remain prevalent across the country, and some of them are totally vegan.

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If you’re in the mood for diner food, check out the list below for some of the best vegan and vegan-friendly diners across the US.

Is diner food vegan-friendly?

When you picture a classic all-American diner meal, a few iconic staples probably come to mind: a beef burger, a side of golden fries, and a thick, creamy milkshake. These comfort food favorites have long defined the traditional diner experience. But nowadays, you don’t have to stick to animal products to indulge in that nostalgic combo.

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Thanks to the growing demand for plant-based food, diners across the US are stepping up their game and offering delicious vegan alternatives. From meatless burgers to dairy-free shakes and crispy plant-based chicken sandwiches, the vegan diner scene is more vibrant than ever.

So, the next time that comfort food craving hits, rest assured—you don’t have to compromise. With a little know-how and the right spot, you can dig into satisfying, animal-free versions of all of your favorite diner classics.

The best diners for vegan food in the US

These diners are serving up classic dishes made without animal ingredients.  

The Chicago Diner

1 The Chicago Diner

Chicago, IL

The Chicago Diner has been serving up American comfort food—made sans meat—since the 1980s. A vegetarian diner, this Chicago mainstay has a vast array of vegan options. Treat yourself to the Smoked Tofu Club sandwich, which features bacon-style seitan, or the Special Recipe Wings with spicy buffalo sauce. If you’re keeping things fresh and healthy, there’s also a selection of salads, a veggie-packed Thai Basil Stir Fry, or The Soul Bowl, which is loaded with flash-cooked greens, mashed sweet potato, and seasoned quinoa.
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Spiral Diner

2 Spiral Diner & Bakery

Fort Worth, TX

Since 2002, Texans have been able to get their hands on delicious, filling, vegan diner food from Spiral Diner & Bakery. The menu offers a wide range of nachos and build-your-own burgers, which you can make meaty (thanks to the Impossible Burger and Impossible chicken options) or whole food-based, depending on your individual preference.
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Viva Vegan Diner

3 Viva Vegan Diner

Upland, CA

If burgers with all the extras, birria tacos, and other Mexican dishes made vegan sound like your dinner dream, you need to get yourself to Viva Vegan Diner. The popular eatery has a seemingly endless menu, so you’ll always be spoiled for choice. Just make sure your wallet is ready because it might become your new addiction.
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Vertical Diner

4 Vertical Diner

Salt Lake City, UT & Portland, OR

Sometimes, you just need breakfast (even if it’s technically dinner time). Luckily, all-day breakfast is another diner staple, and you can find veganized versions at both of Vertical Diner’s locations. Opt for menu items like The Avalanche, which features two pancakes, country potatoes, and tofu scramble, or if you’re extra hungry, add tempeh bacon and sausage to the Sunrise Burrito. One taste and you’ll realize why Vertical Diner was voted Best Vegan Diner by VegNews readers.
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Swingers Diner

5 Swingers Diner

Los Angeles, CA

While not entirely vegan, Swingers deserves a shout-out on this list for its tasty range of plant-based options. Try the Soyrizo Scramble, for example, with black beans and fresh salsa, or the Vegan Burrito, which is packed with sautéed tofu and veggies.
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The Grain Cafe

6 The Grain Cafe

Los Angeles, CA

With five locations spread across Los Angeles, Culver City, Long Beach, Redondo Beach, and Van Nuys, CA, The Grain Cafe is locals’ go-to for diner fare and Mexican bites. For breakfast, enjoy waffles, crêpes, and pancakes. For lunch and dinner, choose from burritos, enchiladas, pasta, fajita, and much more.
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The Tasty

7 The Tasty

Philadelphia, PA

This South Philadelphia mainstay is all about the old-school vibes—apart from the fact that it’s totally animal-free. Expect to find options like vegan chicken and waffles, tofu egg sandwiches, and thick-cut French toast, available with lashings of syrup, berries, and whipped cream.
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Angelhearts Diner

8 Angelhearts Diner

Ithaca, NY

There’s no doubt that New York City is a great destination for vegan food. But it’s not the only city in New York where you can find great animal-free options. In Ithaca, near Cayuga Lake, you can find tasty vegan comfort food at Angelhearts Diner. The all-day breakfast offerings include breakfast burritos and Just Egg sandwiches. Beyond breakfast, Angelhearts’ salads, burgers, loaded fries, smoothies, and shakes are sure to keep you satisfied. 
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Silver Diner

9 Silver Diner

Cherry Hill, NJ

This New Jersey diner doesn’t have a dedicated vegan menu. Instead, you’ll find a flexitarian section on the menu, which is for plant-based eaters and people looking to cut down on their meat intake. Indulge in vegan options like the Impossible Meatless Taco Bowl, the Oat Milk Protein Pancakes, and the Just Egg Breakfast Tacos.
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Off the Griddle

10 Off the Griddle

Portland, OR

Portland’s Off the Griddle is dedicated to providing you with “vegan & vegetarian awesomeness.” And here’s the proof: The menu is packed with options like chorizo burritos, brisket, and vegan drumsticks, as well as waffles, brunch dishes, and sandwiches. While eggs and cheese are served at Off The Griddle, these must be requested as extra, as all items are vegan by default.
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The Wayward Vegan

11 The Wayward Vegan

Seattle, WA

In Seattle’s Roosevelt neighborhood, you’ll find The Wayward Vegan. It’s cozy, it’s friendly, the food is freshly made, and most importantly, delicious. Try options like the Hillbilly Omelet, which comes with hash browns, soyrizo, and country gravy, or indulge in the Mac Vegan Muffin with scramble, cheese, and sausage.
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4th & State

12 4th & State

Columbus, OH

Situated in downtown Columbus, 4th and State really embraced the traditional diner vibes, so expect an all-American experience when you rock up to indulge in its delicious and totally vegan menu. Options include the Americana burger, loaded shoestring fries, and the Statehouse Breakfast (which comes with a choice of pancakes or French toast and two “brunchy sides”).
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Green New American Diner

13 Green New American Diner

Tempe & Phoenix, AZ

Arizona’s Green New American has one key mission: to make vegan comfort food for the masses, and it has definitely succeeded. Choose from tasty bites like the Big Easy Cheezy Nachos, Chick’n Nuggs, the Chicago Cheesesteak, and so much more.
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Sealevel City

14 Sealevel City Vegan Diner

Wilmington, NC

This totally vegan diner is a must-visit if you’re in the port city of Wilmington. The menu is extensive (and mouthwatering), but staff and customer favorites include dishes like the Baja Shrimp Tacos, kale nachos with cashew queso, and vegan wings.
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