
Best Vegan Brunch Spots in Chicago: Ultimate Guide to Plant-Based Morning Delights
What makes a vegan brunch in Chicago unforgettable? Is it the creative plant-based dishes, the cozy vibe of vegan restaurants, or the wide variety of options? Chicago boasts a range of vegan spots, from brunch to dinner, and everything in between. With so many choices, finding the perfect vegan brunch in Chicago can be tough.
Introduction to Chicago’s Vegan Brunch Scene
Chicago’s vegan brunch scene is diverse, with both old favorites and new trendy spots. As more people seek plant-based meals, Chicago’s vegan restaurants are getting creative. Whether you’re craving classic comfort food or something fancy, you’ll find it in Chicago.
Key Takeaways
- Chicago is home to a diverse array of vegan restaurants, offering options for every meal and interest.
- The city features a variety of vegan brunch spots, including casual comfort food and gourmet options.
- Chicago Diner is a popular spot for vegan brunch, offering classic comfort food options like vegan poutine and seitan Reuben.
- Many vegan restaurants in Chicago offer innovative and delicious plant-based morning delights.
- The demand for plant-based dining options is growing, and Chicago’s vegan restaurants are stepping up to meet this demand.
- From established favorites to newer, trendy spots, Chicago’s vegan brunch scene has something for everyone.
Discovering Vegan Brunch in Chicago’s Food Scene
The windy city is famous for its lively chicago food scene. It has changed a lot with the growth of plant-based dining. Chicago’s vegan brunch specials are a must-try, with a wide variety of dishes for everyone.
In the heart of Chicago, you’ll find many restaurants with vegan brunch specials. They serve everything from classic breakfasts to dishes from around the world. Places like The Allis, Goddess and the Baker, and Beatnik have something for everyone.

To enjoy the chicago food scene at its best, go on a weekend. That’s when most places have vegan brunch specials. You can also check out neighborhoods like River North and Streeterville for great plant-based dining options.
Some top vegan brunch specials in Chicago include:
- Soufflé pancakes at Hanabusa Cafe
- Vegan benedict at Chicago Diner
- Plant-based tacos at Penelope’s Vegan Taqueria
River North’s Premium Vegan Brunch Destinations
Looking for a fancy brunch? River North in Chicago is the place to be. It’s known for its upscale vibe and creative vegan dishes. It’s perfect for a special day or a fancy Sunday brunch.
Planta Queen is a top spot for vegan brunch in River North. It’s 100% plant-based and has won many awards. VegOut Magazine named it “Vegan Restaurant of the Year.” It offers a wide menu and top-notch service, making it a must-visit for vegan food lovers.
Some popular dishes to try at these spots include:
- Afternoon Tea Party, available every day from 11 AM to 5 PM for $35 per person
- Mimosa and Bellini, priced at $12
- Homemade cheesecake and cake slice, priced at $14 each
Whether you’re craving a fancy brunch or something new, River North has it all. Its elegant settings and creative dishes will impress anyone. So, why not indulge in a premium vegan brunch in River North and see what all the hype is about?

Classic Favorites at Chicago Diner
The Chicago Diner has been a favorite in the city’s vegan food scene for over 40 years. It offers American-style brunch favorites with a vegan twist. Their menu includes vegan benedict options that are a must-try for plant-based lovers. Every bite showcases their commitment to quality, locally sourced ingredients.
The diner also serves a variety of sweet treats and pancakes. You’ll find fluffy pancakes and decadent cinnamon rolls to satisfy any sweet tooth. For those who prefer something savory, their seitan dishes are a great choice.
Some popular menu items at the Chicago Diner include:
- Vegan benedict with tofu and spinach
- Stuffed French toast with fresh fruit and maple syrup
- Seitan “chick’n” parmesan with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella
- Pancakes with fresh berries and whipped cream

The Chicago Diner is a top spot for delicious, plant-based brunch in the city. It has a cozy atmosphere and a wide menu. It’s perfect for meeting friends or family for a weekend meal. Whether you’re craving something sweet or savory, the Chicago Diner has it all.
Upscale Plant-Based Dining at Planta Queen
Planta Queen is a top spot for upscale plant-based food in Chicago. It’s part of the Planta group and opens on September 29, 2023. Starting October 8, 2023, it will offer brunch with dishes like cinnamon buns and kimchi fried rice. Plus, there’s bottomless seasonal sangria.
At Planta Queen, you can enjoy a meal or grab a quick salad. The menu includes vegan fine dining like vegan sushi and noodles. It’s a great place for those who love planta queen and vegan food.
The restaurant focuses on sustainability. It uses produce from local gardens and school gardens. This ensures fresh, seasonal ingredients. As more people want upscale plant-based food, Planta Queen is ready to serve.

Planta Queen has a fancy atmosphere and great service. It’s a top choice in Chicago for upscale plant-based dining. Whether you’re vegan or just trying plant-based food, it’s a place you must visit.
Authentic Mexican-Inspired Vegan Brunch at Penelope’s
Penelope’s in Chicago offers a unique mexican-inspired vegan brunch. It’s a hidden gem for those seeking something new and tasty. With many dishes to pick from, Penelope’s will meet any craving.
The breakfast burrito specials at Penelope’s are a must-try. They’re made with fresh, quality ingredients. These burritos are full of flavor and keep you full until lunch. The churro waffle is also a hit, offering a sweet and crispy brunch treat.
Some of the key features of Penelope’s menu include:
- Unique mexican-inspired vegan dishes
- Breakfast burrito specialties
- Churro waffle experience
- House-made sauces and salsas

Penelope’s has something for everyone, whether you want savory or sweet. It’s a great place for a Saturday or Sunday morning. The friendly atmosphere and delicious food make it perfect.
Bloom Plant Based Kitchen’s Modern Twists
Bloom Plant Based Kitchen is leading the way in Chicago’s vegan brunch scene. They offer modern twists on classic dishes. This has made them a favorite among vegan food lovers and health enthusiasts.
Their menu is full of vegan brunch delights like pancakes, waffles, and breakfast burritos. They use only the best, locally sourced ingredients. This makes their dishes both tasty and beautiful to look at.
Bloom Plant Based Kitchen is known for its welcoming vibe. The modern decor and friendly staff make it great for meeting friends or a romantic brunch. It’s a top spot for anyone wanting to try Chicago’s best vegan brunch.

- Pancakes made with fresh fruit and nuts
- Waffles with vegan whipped cream and syrup
- Breakfast burritos with scrambled tofu and avocado
Bloom Plant Based Kitchen is the ideal place for a tasty vegan brunch in Chicago. Whether you’re a vegan or just looking to try something new, you’ll be impressed.
Hidden Gems for Vegan Brunch Chicago Locals Love
Chicago’s vegan brunch scene is full of hidden gems that locals adore. These spots offer a unique and delicious experience. They are perfect for those looking to explore beyond the well-known spots. Among these, vegan brunch options stand out for their creativity and flavor.
In the heart of Chicago, chicago locals often visit Upton’s Breakroom. It’s a spot known for great vegan brunch options. With its cozy atmosphere and innovative dishes, it’s a must-visit for anyone looking for a quality vegan meal.

Upton’s Breakroom Specialties
Upton’s Breakroom is known for its creative takes on traditional brunch items. It’s a hidden gem in the Chicago vegan scene. From tofu scrambles to vegan pancakes, every dish is carefully crafted to satisfy any craving.
Lucy’s Café Highlights
Another favorite among chicago locals is Lucy’s Café. It offers an array of vegan brunch options that are both healthy and indulgent. With its warm ambiance and excellent service, Lucy’s Café is the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely vegan brunch on a weekend morning.
Sweet Tooth Satisfaction: Vegan Pastries and Desserts
Chicago’s vegan scene is full of tasty vegan pastries and desserts. You can find everything from classic donuts to fancy cinnamon rolls. The city’s bakeries and cafes have something for everyone.
Places like Mo’Pweeze Bakery and The Vegan Doughnut Company are must-visits. Mo’Pweeze has been around since 2013 and is Kosher-certified. The Vegan Doughnut Company is Ohio’s first all-vegan doughnut shop. They offer a variety of vegan pastries and desserts, including donuts and cinnamon rolls, all cruelty-free.

Looking for something new? Chicago has many unique vegan desserts like vegan cheesecakes and brownies. These treats are made with natural ingredients and are animal product-free. They’re perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
Some top vegan bakeries in Chicago include:
- Estella’s Vegan Dessert Boutique, Detroit’s first vegan bakery
- Like Mom’s Only Vegan, located in Cincinnati’s Findlay Market
- Plant Based Sweets by Lotus, offering Southern-inspired vegan treats
These bakeries have a wide range of vegan pastries and desserts. You’ll find donuts and cinnamon rolls that are sure to please any sweet tooth.
Budget-Friendly Vegan Brunch Options
Looking for affordable options in Chicago? There are many budget-friendly vegan brunch spots. These places serve tasty, plant-based meals without costing a lot.
Many cafes and restaurants have menus that won’t empty your wallet. You can find everything from pancakes and waffles to smoothie bowls and sandwiches. Making a vegan brunch at home can save 20-30% compared to traditional brunches.
Here are some budget-friendly vegan brunch spots to try:
- Your Organic Inner G, with dishes starting at $12.50
- The Black Vegan, with menu items priced around $16
- Native Foods, with options like the “Taste of Senegal” sampler for $21.95
With these affordable options, enjoying a vegan brunch in Chicago is easy. Whether you want something classic or something new, there’s a spot for you.
Seasonal Specials and Weekend Highlights
Chicago’s vegan brunch scene is full of exciting experiences. With seasonal specials and weekend highlights, there’s something for everyone. Restaurants change their menus with the seasons, offering new and tasty vegan dishes.
In summer, enjoy summer patio brunches in Chicago. They offer a cool break from city life. With over 24,000 vegan-friendly restaurants in the U.S., Chicago is a top spot for plant-based meals.
Winter brings winter comfort dishes to Chicago’s vegan brunch scene. Think vegan chilaquiles and buttermilk pancakes. The city’s restaurants keep coming up with new vegan ideas.
Chicago’s vegan brunch scene has great weekend highlights. Try bottomless mimosas at many places. Or go for unique dishes like okonomiyaki and vegan Reuben sandwiches. Every weekend, you can try a new seasonal special and see what Chicago’s vegan brunch is all about.
Conclusion: Embracing Chicago’s Vibrant Vegan Brunch Scene
Chicago’s vegan brunch scene is truly vibrant and welcoming. From fancy spots like Planta Queen to cozy spots like Upton’s Breakroom, there’s something for everyone. You can find everything from classic dishes to unique, global flavors.
But it’s not just about the food. Local spots like Seeking Kombucha and Dough Joy are becoming favorites. Places like LesbiVeggies and Seitan’s Helper show Chicago’s inclusive spirit. Exploring these places means enjoying great food and experiencing the city’s culture.
Whether you’re a vegan or just trying plant-based food, Chicago has a lot to offer. Dive into this world and discover new favorites. Let your taste buds lead you on this exciting journey through Chicago’s vegan brunch scene.
FAQ
What makes Chicago’s vegan brunch scene special?
Chicago’s vegan brunch scene is special because of its variety and creativity. The city has seen a big change, with more people choosing plant-based options. Now, there’s a wide range of dishes for everyone.
What are some of the best vegan brunch spots in the River North area?
River North has some of the best vegan brunch spots. They offer a fancy plant-based dining experience. These places are known for their elegant setting, creative dishes, and great service.
What makes the Chicago Diner a beloved institution in the city’s vegan food scene?
The Chicago Diner is loved for its creative and tasty plant-based dishes. It’s famous for vegan benedict, sweet treats, and seitan dishes. The diner truly shows its commitment to delicious vegan food.
What sets Planta Queen apart in Chicago’s upscale vegan dining scene?
Planta Queen stands out for its sophisticated plant-based dining. It offers a unique ambiance and menu. This makes it a top choice for upscale vegan dining in Chicago.
What makes Penelope’s a hidden gem in Chicago’s vegan brunch scene?
Penelope’s is a hidden gem for vegan brunch. It offers a real Mexican-inspired experience. You’ll love their breakfast burritos, churro waffles, and homemade sauces and salsas.
How does Bloom Plant Based Kitchen’s approach to vegan brunch differ from other establishments?
Bloom Plant Based Kitchen brings new twists to classic dishes. It’s known for its unique menu and atmosphere. This makes it a standout in Chicago’s vegan brunch scene.
What are some of the must-try vegan pastries and desserts in Chicago?
Chicago has amazing vegan pastries and desserts. You should try their donuts, cinnamon rolls, and other sweet treats. They’re all worth indulging in.
What are some budget-friendly vegan brunch options in Chicago?
Vegan brunch doesn’t have to be expensive in Chicago. There are many affordable options that offer delicious plant-based dishes.
What are some unique experiences that make vegan brunch in Chicago special?
Chicago’s vegan brunch is special because of the experience, not just the food. The city has seasonal specials and weekend highlights. You can enjoy summer patio brunch, winter comfort dishes, and more. These make vegan brunch in Chicago truly special.