There was a time when trying to find decent vegan options in Reno was...challenging. Now, we have a plethora of great options, whether you're vegan or not. So if you're trying out Meatless Mondays, are looking for a healthy-ish food option, or are just entertaining vegan guests, here are some places that are vegan-friendly and oh-so delicious.
Image courtesy: Thali
Thali was pretty groundbreaking when they opened in Reno. The set menu of bottomless, seasonal, vegetarian (and vegan by request) North Indian cuisine is truly delicious. Because it's a set menu, you can trust that every item is crafted with care and will be delicious. I've never had a bad meal here, and the service is always so friendly. Family-run, and the best part is, even though there's no meat, you'll leave full because it's unlimited refills!
Image courtesy: Great Full Gardens
Self-describing as a "health food" restaurant, Great Full Gardens has something for everyone (raw, vegan, gluten-free, organic, and even a wide selection of sustainable fish and meat options), and it's always delicious. The cheesy bruschetta, available with vegan cashew cheese, is a must-order. Great Full Gardens now has multiple locations around town, and is available for breakfast through dinner, except on Sundays when they close at 2:00pm.
Image courtesy: Fork Me, Reno
Fast-casual and super-delicious, Bab Cafe is "wholesome Korean in a cup." A very straight-forward menu of different bowl combinations centered around proteins, fresh and pickled veg, and awesome sauces. Their tofu is fried to perfection and mini-cubed, which is a refreshing option compared to most tofu options being big chunks and raw. They suggest mixing up your bowl entirely before enjoying, and offer a cup of miso soup with your order to sip as you eat.
Image courtesy: Pizzava
Locally-owned late-night (open until 3am on the weekends) vegan pizza? Helloooo, Pizzava. Great delivery pizza with gluten-free and vegan options. Pretty self-explanatory, Pizzava gets the job done and has something for everyone in your group.
Image courtesy: Fork Me, Reno
While not having access to an online menu might instill discomfort in vegans, fear not—Kauboi Izakaya is one of the best restaurants in town and has a host of vegan options. A Japanese restaurant with a host of small-bites like sweet potato gyoza (pictured above), spicy noodles, and delicious charred veg, Kauboi has very thoughtful and delicious vegan options—just let your server know you need some vegan bites and they'll steer you in the right direction.
Image courtesy: Lanna Thai Cafe
Lanna's is arguably some of the best Thai food in Reno. Located a little ways off the main stretch (unless you live in the Caughlin Ranch area) but worth a visit, even for takeaway. From the vegetable soup to any of the noodle dishes, it's very easy to customize Lanna's to a vegan diet because the vegetables they use are always super fresh. Don't miss out on the cucumber salad and peanut sauce sides—they really make the meal.
Image courtesy: Zagol Restaurant
Amazing flavors, a variety of textures, and a menu that caters to a range of dietary restrictions? Enter Ethiopian food—more specifically, Zagol. This place is a hidden gem in South Reno. Owned and operated by chef Shita Yenenh, this is some of the best Ethiopian food I've ever had. The $30 vegetarian gebeta platter is a feast for two and can easily be made vegan.