Best Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurants in Washington, DC

Washington, D.C., has become a hub for plant-based dining, reflecting a broader trend toward sustainable, health-conscious eating. As more people embrace vegetarian and vegan diets for health, environmental, and ethical reasons, the capital has responded with various restaurants catering to plant-based eaters. Whether you’re a dedicated vegan or looking to explore meat-free dining, D.C. offers everything from fine-dining experiences to fast-casual spots serving creative and delicious meals.

The city’s plant-based restaurants go beyond just offering vegan burgers and salads. Many embrace sustainability, sourcing local ingredients, and experimenting with innovative culinary techniques. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, these restaurants provide an exciting and delicious way to experience the best of plant-based cuisine.

Top Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurants in Washington, D.C.

Oyster Oyster

Website: Oyster Oyster

Oyster Oyster is one of D.C.'s most celebrated plant-based restaurants. It boasts a Michelin star for its commitment to sustainability and inventive cuisine. This restaurant focuses on hyper-local ingredients, emphasizing mushrooms, root vegetables, and foraged herbs in a creative tasting menu.

The dining experience at Oyster Oyster is refined and immersive. Dishes highlight the natural flavors of seasonal produce. Some of the restaurant’s standout offerings include mushroom-based courses replicating the umami richness of seafood and innovative vegetable-based preparations that elevate humble ingredients to gourmet status.

With its dedication to sustainability and eco-conscious dining, Oyster Oyster is a must-visit for those looking to experience high-end plant-based cuisine in the nation’s capital.

Mita

Website: Mita DC

Mita offers a 14-course Latin American-inspired vegan tasting menu for a vibrant and unique take on plant-based dining. Chef Miguel Guerra brings profound cultural influences into his dishes, celebrating traditional flavors while utilizing modern cooking techniques.

Mita’s philosophy of root-to-stem dining ensures minimal waste, creatively using every part of the ingredient. Signature dishes include the asado negro terrine, which reimagines a Venezuelan classic, and arepas served with a trio of house-made sauces.

This intimate dining experience is a journey through the rich flavors of Latin America, making it a standout in D.C.'s vegan scene.

Elizabeth’s Gone Raw

Website: Elizabeth’s Gone Raw

Elizabeth’s Gone Raw is one of the world's most renowned vegan fine-dining experiences. This elegant restaurant serves a seven-course plant-based tasting menu that blends raw and cooked dishes to highlight seasonal ingredients.

The menu changes monthly, keeping the experience fresh for returning diners. Past menu items have dehydrated beet tartare, truffle-infused cashew cheese, black garlic, and miso-glazed eggplant.

The upscale ambiance and expertly curated menu make Elizabeth’s Gone Raw an ideal destination for special occasions or anyone seeking an exquisite vegan dining experience.

Shouk

Website: Shouk

For a more casual yet equally flavorful option, Shouk serves vegan Israeli street food that has garnered a loyal following. Their menu has bold Middle Eastern flavors, featuring spiced chickpea burgers, shawarma bowls, and crispy falafel sandwiches.

Shouk takes pride in using fresh, whole ingredients without processed meat substitutes, making it an excellent option for those looking for clean, hearty meals. Sustainability is also a key focus, with compostable packaging and a commitment to reducing their environmental impact.

With multiple locations in D.C., Shouk is perfect for a quick and satisfying plant-based meal.

DC Vegan

Website: DC Vegan

DC Vegan combines a vegan Italian deli with a botanical bar. It is a hidden gem in the city’s plant-based dining scene. The menu features house-made vegan cheeses, artisanal sandwiches, vibrant salads, and a rotating selection of plant-based cocktails and zero-proof drinks.

Favorites from the menu include the vegan Italian cold-cut sandwich and mushroom-based "meatball" subs. The fast-casual service makes it convenient for those looking to grab a quick but delicious meal.

The cozy setting and welcoming atmosphere make DC Vegan a great spot to enjoy a meal with friends or grab a bite on the go.

Notable Mentions

PLANTA Queen

Website: PLANTA Queen DC

PLANTA Queen brings an international flair to vegan dining with an Asian-inspired menu featuring globally influenced dishes. Standouts include truffle udon noodles, sushi rolls made with watermelon "tuna," and the famous Bang Bang Broccoli.

PLANTA Queen is a fantastic destination for group dining with a stylish ambiance and a menu designed for sharing.

Equinox

Website: Equinox

Equinox is a pioneer in farm-to-table dining in D.C. It offers a plant-based Sunday brunch that has become a favorite among vegans and non-vegans. The restaurant focuses on seasonal, contemporary American cuisine, ensuring every dish is fresh and flavorful.

The restaurant's vegetarian-friendly menu, which includes the cashew cheese board and plant-based crab cakes, highlights its commitment to sustainability and innovation.

Chaia

Website: Chaia Tacos

For an inventive take on plant-based Mexican food, Chaia is a must-visit. This vegetarian taco shop specializes in flavor-packed, farm-fresh tacos and offers vegan options for nearly every item on the menu.

Popular choices include the mushroom taco with feta (substitutable for a vegan option) and the butternut squash taco with salsa macha. Chaia is an excellent spot for a quick and healthy meal in Georgetown and Chinatown.

Conclusion: A Thriving Plant-Based Culinary Scene

Washington, D.C.'s plant-based restaurant scene thrives, offering something for every kind of diner—from an elegant fine-dining experience to those looking for quick and flavorful street food. These restaurants showcase the city's dedication to sustainability, local sourcing, and culinary innovation.

Whether you’re a lifelong vegan or just interested in trying more plant-based meals, these restaurants provide an exciting way to explore the flavors of D.C. Make sure to visit these spots and support the growing plant-based community in the capital.