How to Find Vegan Restaurants in Denver, CO

Denver, Colorado, has emerged as one of the most vibrant and welcoming cities in the United States for plant-based dining. With a growing population of vegans, vegetarians, and flexitarians, the city’s culinary scene has evolved rapidly to accommodate diverse dietary preferences. Whether you’re a long-time resident, a visitor exploring the Mile High City, or someone new to veganism, knowing how to find authentic, high-quality vegan restaurants in Denver can transform your dining experience from ordinary to exceptional.

This guide is designed to help you navigate Denver’s thriving vegan food landscape with confidence. From leveraging digital tools and community resources to understanding local dining trends and hidden gems, you’ll learn a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to discovering the best vegan eateries the city has to offer. Beyond just listing restaurants, this tutorial equips you with the knowledge to evaluate menus, recognize true vegan establishments, and make informed choices that align with your values and tastes.

The importance of this skill cannot be overstated. In a city where “vegan” is sometimes used loosely—even on menus that include dairy, eggs, or honey—knowing how to verify authenticity saves time, prevents disappointment, and supports businesses that genuinely prioritize plant-based ethics. Moreover, Denver’s vegan scene is dynamic; new restaurants open, menus change, and pop-ups appear seasonally. Staying informed ensures you never miss out on the latest innovations in plant-based cuisine.

This guide combines practical strategies, trusted resources, real-world examples, and expert insights to make your search efficient, enjoyable, and deeply rewarding. By the end, you’ll not only know where to eat—but how to discover new spots independently, even without relying on apps or recommendations.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Define Your Vegan Criteria

Before you begin searching, clarify what “vegan” means to you. For some, it’s strictly plant-based ingredients with no animal products—no dairy, eggs, honey, gelatin, or whey. Others may prioritize organic, non-GMO, or locally sourced ingredients. Some diners avoid processed foods, while others welcome vegan junk food as a treat. Understanding your personal standards helps filter results and prevents confusion.

For example, a restaurant may label a dish as “vegan” but use refined sugar processed with bone char—a practice some vegans avoid. Similarly, a “plant-based” menu might still contain honey or dairy-based butter. Knowing your boundaries allows you to ask the right questions and evaluate menus accurately.

Step 2: Use Dedicated Vegan-Friendly Platforms

Start your search with platforms specifically designed to highlight vegan and vegetarian dining. These services aggregate user reviews, verify menu items, and often include photos and accessibility details.

HappyCow is the gold standard for vegan and vegetarian restaurant discovery worldwide. Its Denver-specific map shows over 150 verified locations, from full-service restaurants to food trucks and cafes. Each listing includes detailed menus, photos of dishes, user ratings, and notes on whether the establishment is fully vegan or merely vegan-friendly. You can filter by cuisine type (Mexican, Thai, Italian, etc.), price range, and whether they offer takeout or delivery.

Yelp is another powerful tool. Use the “Vegan” filter under “Cuisines” and sort by “Highest Rated.” Read recent reviews—especially those tagged “vegan” or “plant-based”—to see what diners are saying about ingredient transparency and staff knowledge. Be cautious of outdated listings; a restaurant may have changed its menu since a review was posted.

Google Maps remains indispensable. Search “vegan restaurants near me” or “best vegan food Denver.” Look for places with a high number of reviews (20+), consistent 4.5+ ratings, and recent photos uploaded by users. Pay attention to the “Questions & Answers” section—many vegans ask specific questions like, “Do you use separate fryers?” or “Is the soy sauce gluten-free?”

Step 3: Explore Neighborhoods Known for Vegan Dining

Denver’s vegan scene is concentrated in certain neighborhoods, each offering a unique vibe and culinary focus. Prioritize these areas to maximize your chances of finding quality options:

• South Broadway (SoBo) – The epicenter of Denver’s vegan movement. Home to iconic spots like Denver Vegan and True Food Kitchen, this corridor is packed with plant-based cafés, juice bars, and dessert shops.
• LoHi (Lower Highlands) – Trendy and upscale, LoHi features modern vegan restaurants like Planta and Root Down, known for creative, chef-driven dishes.
• Cherry Creek – A more affluent neighborhood with vegan-friendly upscale dining. Plant Power Fast Food and Wild Oats Market offer quick, healthy meals.
• West Colfax – A hidden gem with budget-friendly vegan tacos, burritos, and soul food at spots like Amara Vegan Kitchen and Plant Based Pueblo.
• Golden Triangle – Near museums and cultural centers, this area has several vegan brunch spots and coffee shops with plant-based pastries.

Map these neighborhoods and plan your visits around them. Many are walkable or easily accessible via public transit (RTD), making it easy to explore multiple spots in one day.

Step 4: Check Restaurant Websites and Menus

Never rely solely on third-party apps. Always visit the restaurant’s official website before visiting. Look for:

• A dedicated vegan section on the menu
• Clear labeling of vegan items (often marked with a “V” or “VG”)
• Notes on allergens, cross-contamination, and sourcing
• Photos of dishes to assess portion size and presentation

Many Denver restaurants now have interactive online menus where you can click on each item to view full ingredients. For example, Planta offers a filter that lets you view only vegan dishes and shows whether items are gluten-free or nut-free. This level of transparency is a strong indicator of a restaurant’s commitment to plant-based diners.

If the website lacks details, look for a “Contact Us” page and send a quick message: “Do you have a fully vegan menu? Are vegan items prepared separately from dairy or meat?” A prompt, detailed response signals professionalism and care.

Step 5: Use Social Media for Real-Time Updates

Instagram and Facebook are invaluable for discovering pop-ups, limited-time menus, and new openings. Follow hashtags like:

• DenverVegan

• VeganDenver

• PlantBasedDenver

• DenverFoodie

Many local vegan influencers and food bloggers post daily updates with photos, reviews, and even live videos from inside restaurants. Look for posts tagged with location pins—these often include the exact address and hours.

Join Facebook groups like “Denver Vegans & Plant-Based Eaters” or “Vegan Foodies of Colorado.” These communities are active, supportive, and frequently share insider tips: “New vegan donut shop opened in RiNo!” or “Taco Tuesday at Amara is 50% off with plant-based protein.”

Follow restaurants directly on social media. Many post daily specials, ingredient changes, or surprise vegan-only nights. For instance, The Bluebird Theater occasionally hosts vegan pop-up dinners with local chefs—announced only via Instagram Stories.

Step 6: Ask Locals and Look for Vegan Certifications

When in doubt, ask. Staff at coffee shops, bookstores, and even grocery stores in Denver are often well-informed about vegan dining. Don’t hesitate to ask: “Where do you go for vegan food around here?” You’ll likely get enthusiastic recommendations.

Look for official certifications that validate a restaurant’s vegan status:

• Vegan Society Trademark – A globally recognized logo indicating all ingredients and processes are vegan.
• Certified Vegan Logo – Administered by Vegan Action, this seal means the product has been audited and approved.
• Plant-Based Food Certification – Some restaurants display this seal from the Plant-Based Foods Association, indicating no animal-derived ingredients.

While not all vegan restaurants pursue certification (due to cost or philosophy), their presence is a strong indicator of legitimacy. If you see one of these logos, you can trust the menu.

Step 7: Try Vegan Food Trucks and Markets

Denver’s food truck culture is thriving, and many specialize in vegan cuisine. Visit:

• Denver Food Truck Park – Located in the RiNo Art District, this hub features rotating vegan vendors like Plant Based Pueblo and Green Tofu.
• Union Station Farmers Market – Held on weekends, this market includes vegan baked goods, plant-based cheeses, and fresh juices.
• Colfax Avenue Food Truck Festival – Seasonal events often include 5+ vegan trucks in one location.

Food trucks offer affordable, authentic, and often experimental dishes. They’re also more likely to use local, seasonal ingredients and rotate menus weekly, keeping things fresh and exciting.

Step 8: Plan for Dietary Restrictions Beyond Veganism

Many vegans also follow gluten-free, soy-free, nut-free, or low-sodium diets. When searching, use filters on HappyCow or Google Maps for “gluten-free vegan” or “nut-free vegan.”

Denver restaurants are increasingly accommodating. True Food Kitchen has a dedicated gluten-free vegan menu. Planta offers soy-free and nut-free options upon request. Always inform the server of additional restrictions—even if the menu says “vegan”—to avoid cross-contamination.

Step 9: Visit During Off-Peak Hours

Popular vegan spots in Denver—like Denver Vegan or Root Down—can have long wait times on weekends. Visit during lunch (11:30 AM–1:30 PM) or early dinner (5:00 PM–6:30 PM) to avoid crowds and get better service.

Many restaurants offer early-bird specials or discounted vegan tasting menus during off-hours. Ask if they have a “happy hour” for plant-based dishes—it’s becoming more common.

Step 10: Leave Reviews and Support Local Vegan Businesses

Once you’ve found great vegan restaurants, leave detailed reviews on Google, Yelp, and HappyCow. Mention specific dishes, staff friendliness, and whether the experience met your vegan standards. Your review helps others make informed choices.

Supporting these businesses through repeat visits, social media shares, and word-of-mouth ensures they continue to thrive. Denver’s vegan scene is built on community—your participation keeps it growing.

Best Practices

Always Verify, Don’t Assume

Never assume a dish is vegan because it sounds plant-based. “Vegetable stir-fry” might contain chicken broth. “Vegan cheese” could be made with casein. “Plant-based burger” may be cooked on the same grill as beef. Always ask: “Is this prepared without animal products, including butter, broth, or honey?”

Learn Key Phrases in Spanish and Other Languages

Denver has a large Hispanic population, and many vegan-friendly taco trucks and taquerias serve authentic plant-based dishes. Learn basic Spanish phrases:

• “¿Es esto vegano?” – Is this vegan?
• “Sin queso, sin huevo, sin mantequilla” – No cheese, no egg, no butter
• “¿Tienen opciones sin gluten?” – Do you have gluten-free options?

Many staff members appreciate the effort—and may even recommend hidden vegan specials not on the menu.

Check for Hidden Animal Ingredients

Common non-vegan ingredients that sneak into vegan-labeled dishes include:

• Honey (often in dressings or sauces)
• Whey or casein (in “vegan” cheeses or protein bars)
• Gelatin (in desserts or gummies)
• Refined sugar (processed with bone char)
• Monosodium glutamate (MSG) derived from animal sources (rare, but possible)
• Red coloring (carmine from insects)

When in doubt, ask for an ingredient list or request that the kitchen prepare your meal without these items.

Support Fully Vegan Establishments

While many restaurants offer vegan options, fully vegan restaurants eliminate the risk of cross-contamination and demonstrate deeper commitment. Prioritize places where every item on the menu is vegan. Examples in Denver include Denver Vegan, Amara Vegan Kitchen, and Plant Power Fast Food.

Be Mindful of Cultural Appropriation

Denver’s vegan scene includes many restaurants inspired by global cuisines—Ethiopian, Indian, Thai, Mexican. Support establishments owned by people from those cultures. Look for names like “Ethiopian Vegan Kitchen” or “Taco Vegan de la Familia” to ensure your dollars go to authentic, community-led businesses.

Bring a Reusable Container

Many vegan restaurants in Denver encourage sustainability. Bring your own container for leftovers or takeout. Some even offer discounts for doing so—Wild Oats Market gives 10% off for bringing your own bag or jar.

Plan Ahead for Events and Holidays

On holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas, many vegan restaurants offer special menus. Reserve early—spots fill up fast. Follow your favorite spots on social media for announcements.

Use Public Transit or Bike

Denver’s RTD light rail and bus system connects major vegan neighborhoods. Use the RTD app to plan routes. Biking is also popular—many restaurants have bike racks. This reduces your carbon footprint and aligns with vegan ethics.

Tools and Resources

Primary Digital Tools

• HappyCow – The most comprehensive vegan restaurant directory. Available as a website and mobile app. Free and premium versions.
• Yelp – Filter by “Vegan” under cuisines. Sort by “Top Rated” and read recent reviews.
• Google Maps – Search “vegan restaurants Denver” and use filters for hours, ratings, and photos.
• Instagram – Search hashtags and location tags. Follow @denvervegan, @plantbaseddenver, @veganfoodieco.
• Facebook Groups – “Denver Vegans & Plant-Based Eaters” (12,000+ members), “Vegan Food & Drink in Colorado.”

Local Publications and Blogs

• Westword – Denver’s leading alt-weekly. Regularly features vegan restaurant reviews and “Best of” lists.
• Denver Life Magazine – Publishes annual “Top 10 Vegan Restaurants” guides.
• Plant Based Denver – A dedicated blog with weekly updates, interviews with chefs, and event calendars.
• Colorado Public Radio (CPR) – Features segments on plant-based dining trends in the state.

Apps for Delivery and Takeout

Many vegan restaurants partner with delivery services:

• DoorDash – Filter by “Vegan” under cuisine type. Popular for Planta and True Food Kitchen.
• Uber Eats – Search “vegan” and sort by distance or rating.
• Grubhub – Includes local vegan spots like Amara Vegan Kitchen and Denver Vegan.
• Local Delivery Services – Some restaurants like Plant Power Fast Food offer their own delivery via website or WhatsApp.

Community Events and Festivals

Attend these annual events to sample dozens of vegan options in one place:

• Vegan Fest Denver – Held every June at City Park. Features 50+ vendors, cooking demos, and live music.
• Denver VegFest – October event at the Denver Performing Arts Complex. Includes vegan food, speakers, and product booths.
• Plant-Based Power Fair – Quarterly gatherings at local community centers with free samples and educational panels.

Books and Guides

• “The Vegan Guide to Denver” by Sarah Lin – A self-published local guide with maps and chef interviews.
• “Plant-Based Colorado” by Jessica Moore – Covers restaurants, farms, and markets across the state.
• “Vegan Eats: The Ultimate Guide to Plant-Based Dining in the U.S.” – Includes a dedicated Denver chapter.

Real Examples

Example 1: Amara Vegan Kitchen – West Colfax

Located in a modest storefront on West Colfax, Amara Vegan Kitchen is a beloved local favorite. The menu features soul food classics: jackfruit BBQ sandwiches, collard greens, mac and “cheese” made with cashew cream, and sweet potato pie. The owner, a former chef from New Orleans, sources ingredients from local Black-owned farms.

How to find it: Search “Amara Vegan Kitchen” on HappyCow. Read reviews mentioning “authentic vegan soul food.” Check Instagram for daily specials like “Vegan Fried Chicken Fridays.” Visit during lunch for the $12 plate special.

Example 2: Planta – LoHi

Planta is a high-end, upscale vegan restaurant with locations in major cities. Its Denver branch offers a refined tasting menu with dishes like truffle risotto, mushroom dumplings, and vegan caviar. The ambiance is modern, and the staff is trained in plant-based nutrition.

How to find it: Visit the official Planta website. Use the “Vegan Menu” filter. Book a reservation online—walk-ins are rarely accepted. Look for the Certified Vegan logo on the menu. Ideal for date nights or special occasions.

Example 3: Denver Vegan – South Broadway

One of Denver’s first fully vegan restaurants, Denver Vegan is a casual, family-run spot with a diverse menu: vegan sushi, loaded nachos, vegan Philly cheesesteaks, and house-made ice cream. The entire kitchen is vegan—no shared equipment with animal products.

How to find it: Search “Denver Vegan” on Google Maps. Look for the 4.9-star rating with 400+ reviews. Check the website for their “Vegan Challenge” — eat everything on the menu for a free dessert. Visit on a Tuesday for 20% off.

Example 4: Plant Power Fast Food – Cherry Creek

Modeled after fast-food chains, Plant Power serves vegan burgers, fries, milkshakes, and nuggets. The food is affordable, quick, and perfect for families. Their “Plant-Based Nuggets” are made with pea protein and served with house-made BBQ sauce.

How to find it: Use the Uber Eats app to see if delivery is available. Follow them on Instagram for “Free Nugget Friday” promotions. Ask for the “gluten-free bun” option if needed.

Example 5: The Bluebird Theater Pop-Up Dinners

Once a month, The Bluebird Theater hosts a vegan pop-up dinner with a rotating chef from across the country. Past menus included Peruvian ceviche made with hearts of palm and vegan chocolate mole. Seating is limited to 60 guests.

How to find it: Follow @thebluebirdtheater on Instagram. Turn on notifications. Announcements are made 72 hours in advance. Tickets sell out in under 10 minutes.

FAQs

Is Denver a good city for vegans?

Yes. Denver ranks among the top 5 vegan-friendly cities in the U.S., according to HappyCow and Vegetarian Times. With over 150 dedicated or vegan-friendly restaurants, frequent vegan events, and a culture that embraces plant-based living, it’s an ideal place for vegans.

Are all vegan restaurants in Denver fully vegan?

No. Some restaurants are vegan-friendly, meaning they offer vegan options but also serve meat and dairy. Fully vegan restaurants have no animal products in their kitchen. Always check the menu or ask to confirm.

Do vegan restaurants in Denver offer gluten-free options?

Many do. Popular spots like True Food Kitchen, Planta, and Denver Vegan have dedicated gluten-free menus. Always ask about cross-contamination if you have celiac disease.

Can I find vegan brunch in Denver?

Absolutely. Top spots include Root Down (Brunch Saturday/Sunday), Denver Vegan (all-day vegan brunch), and Wild Oats Market (vegan pancakes and tofu scrambles).

Are vegan restaurants expensive in Denver?

Prices vary. Upscale places like Planta can cost $25–$40 per person. But many vegan food trucks and cafés offer meals under $12. Denver Vegan, Amara, and Plant Power Fast Food are affordable and high-quality.

Do vegan restaurants in Denver use organic ingredients?

Many do. Restaurants like True Food Kitchen and Wild Oats Market emphasize organic, non-GMO, and locally sourced ingredients. Ask about sourcing when you visit.

Can I order vegan food for delivery in Denver?

Yes. DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub all list dozens of vegan restaurants. Some, like Denver Vegan and Plant Power, offer their own delivery via website or phone.

What’s the best time to visit vegan restaurants in Denver?

Lunch (11:30 AM–1:30 PM) and early dinner (5:00 PM–6:30 PM) are least crowded. Weekdays are quieter than weekends. Reserve ahead for popular spots.

Are there vegan bakeries in Denver?

Yes. Flour & Water Bakery, Plant Based Patisserie, and Denver Vegan all offer vegan cakes, cookies, and pastries. Check Instagram for daily specials.

How do I know if a restaurant is truly vegan and not just “plant-based”?

Look for the Certified Vegan logo, check if the entire menu is vegan, and read reviews from long-time vegans. If the menu says “plant-based” but includes honey or dairy butter, it’s not fully vegan.

Conclusion

Finding vegan restaurants in Denver, CO, is more than a matter of convenience—it’s an act of alignment with your values, health, and environmental ethics. The city’s plant-based community is vibrant, innovative, and deeply committed to sustainability and compassion. By using the tools, strategies, and best practices outlined in this guide, you can confidently navigate Denver’s culinary landscape and discover restaurants that not only serve delicious food but also reflect your principles.

Remember: the best vegan dining experiences often come from curiosity, connection, and community. Ask questions. Follow local influencers. Try new cuisines. Support small businesses. Leave reviews. Attend events. Each step you take helps strengthen the vegan ecosystem in Denver—and makes it easier for others to join.

Whether you’re enjoying a hearty vegan bowl at Amara Vegan Kitchen, savoring truffle risotto at Planta, or grabbing a quick bite from a food truck in RiNo, you’re participating in a movement that’s redefining what food can be. Denver doesn’t just accommodate vegans—it celebrates them.

Now that you know how to find vegan restaurants in Denver, go out and eat—with intention, joy, and purpose.