As self-proclaimed vegan foodies, my husband and I have spent countless weekends (and a few late-night snack runs) combing the streets of Denver, Boulder, and beyond, searching high and low for the best vegan dishes Colorado has to offer.

From savory sandwiches to dreamy desserts, we’ve eaten our way through the finest plant-based eateries and are sharing our tried-and-true favorites with you!

Some of these spots are completely vegan, while others may require a little “veganizing” (i.e., just ask for it to be made vegan, and they’ll hook you up). We promise each dish is worth the trip—whether you’re a Colorado local or just visiting for the weekend.

So buckle up, because we’re about to take you on a mouthwatering journey through the best vegan eats in Colorado!

1. Sandwich: Gladys—The Reuben

Gladys, oh Gladys, how we adore thee. This isn’t your ordinary Reuben—this is the Reuben. Instead of fake meat, Gladys uses thinly sliced, marinated, and grilled celery root, piled high on rye bread with creamy cashew cheese and tangy sauerkraut. It’s crunch, it’s savory, it’s all the good things in one glorious sandwich. I’d be remiss not to mention that their chocolate chip cookie is probably the best I’ve ever had. Gladys is 100 percent vegan, so order with reckless abandon! 

2. Sushi: Wellness Sushi—The Smokey Sake Roll

Sushi? 100 percent vegan? Absolutely! Although you truly can’t go wrong with any of their rolls, Wellness Sushi’s Smokey Sake Roll is a smoky, savory delight that will completely change your view of vegan sushi. Featuring smoky mushrooms, avocado, cucumber, and vegan cream cheese, this roll is like a flavor-packed hug. If you’re in the mood for sushi that’s both fresh and filling, this one’s your go-to. If you’re in the mood for spicy, get the Hot Flamingo roll!

3. Ramen: Rakkan Ramen—The Garnet Vegan Ramen

You know it’s going to be a good day when a bowl of Garnet Vegan Ramen is involved. Rakkan Ramen serves up a hearty, savory bowl of miso-based broth, perfectly cooked noodles, corn, and tofu. It’s like a warm, cozy hug in a bowl. If you’re ever in need of comfort food, look no further than Rakkan.

4. Dessert: Tonic Bar—The Key Lime Pie

Tonic Bar has one thing figured out: dessert perfection. Amidst an entire menu of 100 percent raw, vegan deserts that are homemade and sold only at this location, their Key Lime Pie is an absolute showstopper—creamy, tart, and decadent. It’s tangy but not overly sweet, and the crust adds the perfect crunch. One bite, and you’ll be hooked. We can’t stop dreaming about it.

5. Pasta: Somebody People—Any of Their Seasonal Rotating Pasta Dishes

This is our go-to date night restaurant! Every visit to Somebody People feels like a new adventure. Although the Cacio E Pepe is my current favorite, the pasta dishes here are seasonal and rotate often, so there’s always something fresh and exciting to try. From perfectly prepared veggies to house-made vegan cheeses, the seasonal pasta creations never disappoint. It’s like a plant-forward culinary journey through pasta heaven.

6. Ethiopian: Rass Kassa’s—The Vegetarian Sampler + The Engudai Mushrooms

Ethiopian food is an absolute must-try, and Rass Kassa’s delivers in a big way. The Vegetarian Sampler is an explosion of flavors—lentils, stews, greens, and other delights served on a big, soft injera platter. And the Engudai Mushrooms? They’re so juicy, perfectly spiced, and tender, you might just want to make them your new best friend.

7. Pho: Jennie Pho—Vegan Pho with Vegan Meatballs

Craving pho? Jennie Pho is your spot. Their Vegan Pho with Vegan Meatballs hits all the right notes: a fragrant broth, chewy meatballs, fresh herbs, and a generous helping of noodles. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for those cold Colorado nights.

Pro Tip: Ask for veggies to be added for some blood sugar balancing!

8. Salad: Vital Root—The Cobb Salad

The Cobb Salad at Vital Root is the salad of all salads. It’s massive—like, prepare yourself for a mountain of fresh greens, crispy tempeh bacon, avocado, chickpea “egg,” and cashew cheese. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal in itself, and will leave you feeling full and energized.

Pro Tip: Seriously, this salad is huge. Pace yourself!

9. Pizza: Mama T’s—The Vegan Aquarius

Pizza lovers, rejoice. The Vegan Aquarius at Mama T’s is everything you could ever want in a plant-based pie. With a crispy crust, flavorful tomato sauce, and rich vegan mozzarella, this pizza hits all the right notes. Add a little fresh basil on top, and you’ve got a slice of vegan heaven.

Pro Tip: Mama T’s isn’t 100 percent vegan, so make sure to request vegan cheese—they have several options; our favorite is the violife! 

10. Wings: Watercourse—The Seitan Wings With Buffalo Sauce

Let’s be real: Seitan wings are a game changer. Watercourse’s Seitan Wings with Buffalo Sauce are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, drenched in spicy buffalo sauce, and served with vegan ranch. If you’re looking for a vegan version of classic comfort food, these wings will hit the spot. Plus, they’re super high in protein!

11. Appetizer: Leaf—Oyster Mushrooms

Leaf’s Oyster Mushrooms are legendary. These crispy, golden-brown mushrooms are perfectly seasoned and served with a tangy dipping sauce that will make you fantasize about it for weeks after. Addictive doesn’t even begin to cover it. You’ll probably want to order a second round. Just accept it.

12. Movie Theatre Food: The Alamo—Buffalo Cauliflower Wings, Vegan Cookie, Soft Pretzel, Impossible Burger, and Popcorn

Yes, you can have vegan snacks at the movies! The Alamo has your back with their Buffalo Cauliflower Wings with vegan ranch, Vegan Cookie, Soft Pretzels (hold the butter!), an Impossible Burger, and several other menu items that can be veganized, like pizza. Plus, their popcorn can be served without butter, so you can snack guilt-free while enjoying a film.

13. Dumplings: Little Tibet in Boulder

Dumplings are always a win, and Little Tibet’s are extra special. Their Momo Dumplings (steamed or fried) are packed with spiced veggies and served with a spicy dipping sauce that will have you coming back for more. Our favorite entree here is the tofu saag; be sure to ask them to make it vegan!

14. Veggie Burger: Yellow Deli 

There are talks about this place being a cult, and when you try their veggie burger, you may want to join. The veggie burger at Yellow Deli is the stuff dreams are made of. The house-made patty is juicy and flavorful, and the homemade garlic spread will make you fall in love at first bite. It’s simple, but oh-so-delicious.

15. Breakfast Burrito: Cafe 13—Tofu Breakfast Burrito

Breakfast burritos are my all time favorite food, so this one was a really tough call. After much deliberation, we settled on the Tofu Breakfast Burrito at Cafe 13. Packed with tofu scramble, hash browns, and kale, and smothered in cashew cream and veggie green chile, it’s the ultimate breakfast comfort food. 

Pro Tip: Definitely add the avocado for the full experience. And be sure to specify for the vegan green chili. 

16. Gelato: Rotating Vegan Flavor at Happy Cones Co

If you have a sweet tooth (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t?), the rotating vegan gelato at Happy Cones Co will blow your mind. This New Zealand-style handmade ice cream is smooth, creamy, and packed with rich flavor. Make sure to check out the vegan flavors available when you’re there!

17. Fajitas: The Rio Grande—Portobello Fajitas

If you want fajitas that are packed with flavor, The Rio Grande’s Portobello Fajitas are calling your name. They come with a healthy helping of portobello mushrooms, grilled veggies, vegan beans, rice, guacamole, and your choice of corn or flour tortillas. The mushrooms are juicy and perfectly seasoned—an absolute must-try.

Pro tip: This has nothing to do with vegan food, but be sure to go to the Boulder location and reserve a rooftop table at sunset in the summer!

18. Best Brunch: Fellow Traveler—Deep South Broadway Burrito

Brunch just got better with Fellow Traveler’s Deep South Broadway Burrito. This burrito is packed with everything you love: scrambled tofu, black beans, potatoes, and a mouth-watering vegan queso. It’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for a post-weekend adventure. Bonus: If you’re there outside of brunch hours, don’t miss their fried cornbread with red pepper jam.

19. Philly Cheesesteak: Tasty Harmony in Fort Collins

Tasty Harmony’s Philly Cheesesteak is one of those dishes you won’t believe is vegan—it’s that good. The savory, cheesy goodness will satisfy even the most devout cheesesteak lovers. The seitan is seasoned perfectly and smothered in melty vegan cheese. Dipped in their vegan au jus sauce, it’s the Philly Cheesesteak of your dreams.

Pro Tip: Pair this with their “the drink that makes it impossible to think bad thoughts” tonic for the full Tasty Harmony experience!

20. Veggie Dog or Bratwurst: Mustard’s Last Stand

Whether you’re in Denver or Boulder, Mustard’s Last Stand is your stop for a killer veggie dog or bratwurst. Top it with grilled onions and sauerkraut, and you’ve got a flavor-packed meal that’ll have you coming back for more. It’s a classic that never disappoints.

21. Fast Casual Food: Tie Between Vegan Van and Native Foods

When you need something fast but totally delicious, both Vegan Van and Native Foods have you covered. They both have a Munchwrap Supreme that is seriously next-level—packed with flavor, crunch, and all the vegan goodness you crave. Both spots are fully vegan, so you can order freely and know you’re getting quality food!

22. Breakfast for Dinner: City O’ City—Chicken and Waffles

Who says breakfast can’t be enjoyed at dinner time? At City O’ City, their Chicken and Waffles are a total game-changer. Crispy, savory, smothered in bourbon maple syrup, and served with carrot bacon it’s everything you want in a breakfast-for-dinner dish.

Pro Tip: City O’ City is 100 percent vegetarian but not vegan, so be sure to specify!

23. Latte: The Taproot at The Corner Beet

If you’re on the hunt for a delicious plant-based latte, The Taproot at The Corner Beet has your back. I know it may sound strange, but trust me on this—the combination of beet and ginger juice with cinnamon and creamy coconut milk is tantalizing to the taste buds. (For totally vegan; ask for no honey.)

Pro Tip: You can’t go wrong here, but don’t skip their house-made vegan baked goods while you’re at it!

There you have it! Our carefully curated list of Colorado’s best vegan eats in Denver and Boulder. Whether you’re a local or visiting, these are the spots we can’t recommend enough.

So go ahead—get out there and eat your heart out!

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