3 Great Vegan Choices in Austin, Texas
Austin, Texas is well-known for being one of the best cities for vegans. Contrary to the rest of Texas, Austin offers a sizable selection of options for vegans, vegetarians, and gluten-free diners. The vegan scene in Austin is very diverse. With everything from a dairy-free ice cream shop to a vegan donut shop, there are endless options for vegan travelers. Here you can find any vegan food imaginable: fantastic raw food, hot cooked comfort foods, and delicious traditionally off limits treats like ice cream. Unlike many cities whose vegan and vegetarian restaurants are very bland, you will quickly see that Austin’s vegan restaurants offer a unique style and great setting not found in most cities.
Although there are dozens of great choices in town, I have listed 3 of my favorites. These restaurants all offer great food, a unique setting, and affordable prices.
Mother’s Cafe and Garden
Update: Mother’s is unfortunately closed!
Mother’s Cafe has been serving excellent vegan and vegetarian food since they opened their doors in 1980. This Mexican themed restaurant serves excellent vegan enchiladas and burritos. The weekend brunch menu features an attractive selection of Southwestern dishes in addition to favorites like french toast and waffles. Many dishes can be made with tofu instead of egg. GMO-free canola oil and tofu are used for all dishes containing these ingredients. Many gluten-free items are available as well. Everything on the menu is vegetarian and those that can be made vegan or gluten-free are marked as so.
Counter Culture
Update: Counter Culture is now a food trailer.
Counter Culture is one of the best vegan restaurants in Austin or elsewhere for that matter. In addition to the usual fare like salads and wraps, Counter Culture offers an impressive selection of rare offerings such as gluten-free stuffed French Toast, raw jicama ravioli, spicy baked artichoke dip served with bread (can be made gluten-free), and even chocolate covered donuts.
There are lot of interesting choices to choose amongst. I recommend the Spicy Spinach artichoke dip, the Caesar Salad, and the East Side Nachos. As an added bonus, organic produce is used when available. Counter Culture is vegan comfort food at it’s best. Any vegan traveling through Austin must check out this delicious restaurant.
 Sweet Ritual
Update: Sweet Ritual unfortunately closed.
Over the years we have seen more and more dairy-free brands of ice cream pop up at health food stores all over the country. But summer just isn’t the same without getting a sundae at your favorite ice cream shop. Those avoiding dairy no longer have to pass up on an ice cream outing with friends thanks to Austin’s all dairy-free & delicious Sweet Ritual ice cream shop.
You will have your choice amongst 16 tempting flavors including Cookies and Cream, Rocky Road, Peanut Butter Cup, and Chocolate Chai. The base is either coconut, cashew, or almond. Some of the flavors are gluten-free and marked as so. In addition, gluten-free waffle cones are available. There are a handful of sundae creations (the Peanut Butter Cup which includes your choice of ice cream, dark chocolate chips, chocolate sauce, and salted peanuts is simply delicious) to choose from or you can make your own with the dozen or so toppings and sauces available. Shakes and banana splits can also be found on the menu, meaning this place isn’t missing a thing! What’s even better is that they offer outdoor seating so you can enjoy the beautiful summer nights!
Addresses
Mother’s Cafe – 4215 Duval St, Austin, TX 78751
Counter Culture – 2337 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702
Sweet Ritual – 4500 Duval St, Austin, TX 78751
Have you tried any of the restaurants listed above? What are some of your favorite vegan options in the Austin area?