Vegetarian and vegan diets are believed to be expensive, inconvenient and limiting, so it’s no wonder you find more couch potatoes than sweet potatoes in the average college student’s home. College students have no problem vegging out but are reluctant to go veggie. In Gainesville, however, going veggie is easy once you know where to go.
Our eclectic city is home to a number of restaurants that are notorious among the vegan locals for its commitment to serving organic, vegan alternatives. All affordable, nearby and diverse, these bistros defy the vegan diet’s stereotype. Don’t wait in the hour-long line at Dragonfly or Leonardo’s because these inconspicuous holes-in-the-wall are Gainesville’s treasures.
Karma Cream
Breaking up with Ben and Jerry is a tough feat for dessert lovers who go vegan, but who said vegans can’t eat sweets? Before you go bananas from your split with dairy, check out Karma Cream, an organic ice cream parlor that is also vegan-friendly. Karma Cream serves baked goods, coffee, tea and ice cream in both non-vegan and vegan forms. They even have vegan toppings like sprinkles and cookie bits. Sink into the café’s cushion couches, admire vibrant paintings that adorn the walls and enjoy your sweet treat.
The Jones
The Jones serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and is known for its locally grown and organic ingredients. Try the flaxseed pancakes for breakfast or Thai peanut tempeh wraps for lunch or dinner. Organic wine, a ‘50’s feel and a friendly staff completes The Jones’ charming atmosphere.
Satchels
Satchels’ gluten-free crust and vegan pesto makes it easy for vegans to indulge in pizza. This trendy hot-spot has it all: outdoor seating, beats blasting and the choice to veganify Italian favorites like pizzas and calzones. With vegan cheeses and meat substitutes like tempeh, you won’t have to say ciao to Italian food. Now that’s amore!
Boca Fiesta
You want Mexican food? Boca Fiesta is a vegan-friendly Mexcian café. Starve your burrito cravings with tempeh and tofu meat alternatives, which are available for substitution in any of their dishes. No Mexican meal is complete without chips and queso, so Boca Fiesta has a vegan queso alternative readily available.
The Top
The edgy vibe and ‘60’s look complements the energetic crowd that fills this trendy bar every night of the week. Gainesville’s vegan-friendly bar, a local favorite, gets creative with their dishes serving everything from customized salads to tempeh burgers to seafood to vegan molten chocolate cake.
Civilization
Being vegan doesn’t mean limiting variety! The civilization serves vegan-friendly dishes that reflect American, Indian, Chinese and Italian favorites. Meals are prepared with organic ingredients and adorned with beautiful garnishes by chefs devoted to health.
