Providence, Rhode Island, is earning its place on the map of vegan-friendly cities in the US. The historic American town boasts a plethora of eateries that serve up plant-based dishes, ranging from healthy raw meals to vegan twists on fast food classics. Indulge in traditional brunch foods reimagined as vegan delights, such as tofu eggs Benedict or garden-fresh international specialties like vegan cacio y pepe. Hungry to find out more? Here are the seven best vegan restaurants in the city.
Garden Grille
The most iconic vegan-friendly establishment in Providence is the quirky, kosher-certified Garden Grille, which opened in 1996 and became the first vegetarian restaurant in Rhode Island. The menu features creative dishes and cocktails made with local, organic, farm-fresh ingredients alongside vegan cheese and sauces. Signature dishes include fully-loaded nachos, decadent vegan mac and cheese, and cauliflower tacos. After your meal, consider visiting their sister establishment, fully-vegan bakery Wildflour, to delight in a vegan chocolate-chip cookie, brownie, or cheesecake.
This mindful restaurant is committed to giving back to the community through fundraisers and food donations to Rhode Island nonprofits such as the SouthSide Community Land Trust, RI Food Bank, and the Providence & East Greenwich Animal Rescue Leagues.
The Grange
One premier destination for veg-forward food in the city is Garden Grille’s sister restaurant, The Grange. They offer a fully vegan menu upon request, although some items contain egg and cheese. Notably, The Grange is renowned as one of the most popular brunch spots in Providence, beloved even by meat-eaters.
With a commitment to seasonal, organic, and locally sourced ingredients, their mouth-watering vegan options include po’boy sandwiches made with oyster mushrooms, pastrami Reuben crafted from carrots, tofu biscuits and gravy, and seitan fried ‘chicken’ and waffles. Make sure not to miss the cauliflower side dish—it’s sweet, savory, crunchy, and sour. Conclude your experience with an oven-fresh glazed vegan donut, and enjoy a 10% discount on your bill on Monday when you leave your phone with the host.
Like No Udder
Karen Krinsky pioneered vegan entrepreneurship in Providence by launching The Screaming Vegan in the early 2000s, specializing in plant-based baked goods. In 2010, she introduced Like No Udder, the world’s first all-vegan soft serve ice cream truck. Named Betsy Loo, this beloved truck pops up across the city at events, including the Providence Flea. If you can’t locate the truck, don’t worry; you can satisfy your vegan ice cream cravings at their Eastside shop, which offers 12 hard ice cream flavors. The fat-free creamy soft serve is made with a base of soy, coconut milk, and cashews.
Bar Verde
Chef Matthew Kenney infused his meat-free flair into Providence at the Plant City food hall, which opened in 2019. Bar Verde is a plant-based Mexican restaurant located on the second floor of this vegan hotspot. The Latin-American-inspired menu features cult classics in 100% vegan interpretations, such as spicy elote corn, savory jackfruit tacos, and creamy quesadillas. Shareable plates encourage you to bring along friends for a delightful Mexican feast, with plenty of gluten-free options available.
Double Zero
If you’re skeptical about plant-based eating, let the Italian cuisine at Double Zero change your perspective. This spot is consistently packed, showcasing the high demand in a city with strong Italian heritage. Most diners here aren’t vegan but are simply curious eaters—a testament to the restaurant’s popularity since its mid-June opening.
With over 70 vegan sauces and cheeses made daily, like macadamia nut ricotta for lasagna and cashew alfredo sauce, you won’t miss animal products at all. A gigantic serving of cacio e pepe is ideal for cheese lovers. If truffles are more your thing, try the kale wood-fired pizza with truffle. And remember to save room for dessert: you definitely won’t resist the spongy olive oil cake.
Make Out
If you’re on the go and craving a quick plant-based meal, head to the counter service on the ground level of Plant City. Make Out is an extension of Matthew Kenney’s LA-based cafe, offering build-it-yourself bowl-style options served all day. Start your morning with an acai bowl topped with dairy-free yogurt and fruits, and for lunch, mix and match your favorite roasted veggies for a hearty meal. Their eco-friendly counter service features biodegradable containers made from plants, and you can’t miss the best vegan donuts in Providence, with unique flavors available each day.
