Winnipeg’s dining scene is like a box of chocolates—full of surprises and with something for everyone, especially if you’re into plant-based eating.
Gone are the days when vegans in the Peg had to make do with a side salad and the hope of a veggie burger without mayo. Today, the city is bustling with a variety of vegan options that could make even the most devoted carnivore take a pause and consider a plant-based dish.
From cozy cafes to bustling burger joints, Winnipeg is proving that vegan food isn’t just about leafy greens and tofu; it’s about flavor, innovation, and most importantly, choice.
If you’re a local foodie on a quest to explore all things vegan or a visitor looking to dive into the city’s vegan scene, you’re in for a treat.
Whether you’re craving a decadent doughnut, a savory slice of pizza, or a burger that defies the odds, Winnipeg’s vegan eateries are ready to serve up some serious plant-based deliciousness.
So, buckle up and get ready to explore the best vegan eats the city has to offer.
Roughage Eatery
Roughage Eatery stands out as a beacon for vegan cuisine in Winnipeg, drawing in food lovers with its vibrant and innovative approach to plant-based dining.
At the heart of its popularity is a commitment to transforming the perception of vegan food from mere ‘rabbit food’ to a rich, satisfying culinary experience. The menu bursts with creativity, featuring dishes that are as delightful to the palate as they are to the eye.
From their famous vegan mac & cheese to the inventive deli sandwiches, each recipe is crafted with care, ensuring a memorable meal for vegans and non-vegans alike. This dedication to quality and flavor has made Roughage Eatery a beloved spot in the local food scene.
Beyond the food, what sets Roughage Eatery apart is its warm, inviting atmosphere and the passionate team behind every dish. The owners have cultivated a space that feels both cozy and exciting, a place where community and great food come together seamlessly.
Their events, like pop-up dinners and cooking classes, further enrich Winnipeg’s vegan community, offering spaces for connection over shared meals. As patrons rave about their dining experiences, it’s clear that Roughage Eatery is not just a restaurant but a vibrant hub for those seeking a deep, flavorful dive into the world of vegan cuisine, proving time and again that plant-based eating can be both hearty and delicious.
Falafel Place
Falafel Place, a cornerstone of Winnipeg’s culinary landscape, has been delighting locals and visitors alike with its authentic Middle Eastern cuisine for years.
This bustling eatery prides itself on a menu rich in gluten-friendly, vegetarian, and vegan dishes, with falafels that have earned a city-wide reputation for their crisp exterior and flavorful, herb-infused interior. Beyond its namesake falafels, the menu spans a variety of plant-based options, including savory hummus plates, vibrant salads, and hearty breakfasts that cater to a wide array of tastes and dietary preferences.
It’s a place where tradition meets health-conscious dining, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of the Middle East in the heart of Winnipeg.
The charm of Falafel Place extends beyond its menu. The vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff make dining here an experience rather than just a meal. The owner, known for his warm hospitality, ensures that every guest feels welcomed, mirroring the communal spirit of Middle Eastern dining culture.
Whether you’re stopping by for a quick bite or settling in for a leisurely brunch, Falafel Place promises a culinary journey that’s both delicious and deeply satisfying. As a beloved institution in Winnipeg’s dining scene, it stands as a testament to the city’s diverse culinary offerings and the universal appeal of well-crafted vegan and vegetarian cuisine.
The Merchant Kitchen
At The Merchant Kitchen, the focus on global flavors and inclusive dining makes it a standout choice for vegans in Winnipeg.
The menu, designed with the adventurous eater in mind, includes the “vegano” tacos, a plant-based delight that combines the savory depth of refried beans with the bright crunch of fajita ancho veggies. Topped with Tajin aioli, crispy onions, and fresh cilantro, this dish is a testament to the kitchen’s commitment to flavor and variety.
Additionally, the chimichurri potatoes offer a vegan-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on taste. These cumin-roasted baby potatoes, served with chimichurri rojo and a fresh arugula garnish, demonstrate the kitchen’s ability to transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary.
The Merchant Kitchen’s approach to dining is all about creating an interactive and flavorful experience for its guests, encouraging the sharing of dishes in a family-style setting. This ethos, combined with their dedication to accommodating a range of dietary needs, ensures that vegan diners can partake in the joy of discovering new tastes and textures.
Clementine Cafe
Clementine Cafe in Winnipeg offers a culinary adventure that caters to a variety of tastes, including those following a vegan lifestyle.
First and foremost, Clementine Cafe is a breakfast place, and is one of our favorite breakfast spots in Winnipeg.
Among its diverse and tantalizing menu, the “cashew & banana chia seed pudding” stands out as a delightful vegan option. This dish combines the creamy texture of chia seed pudding with the natural sweetness of banana and the nutty flavor of cashews, topped with a strawberry lime compôte, fresh berries, and granola for added texture and flavor.
It’s a perfect example of Clementine’s ability to offer dishes that are both nourishing and indulgent, making no compromises on taste for their vegan guests.
The cafe’s approach to dining is one of creativity and inclusivity, ensuring that all patrons, regardless of dietary preferences, can enjoy a meal that’s thoughtfully prepared and packed with flavor.
While the menu at Clementine Cafe is not exclusively vegan, the inclusion of plant-based dishes highlights their commitment to offering a diverse dining experience.
The Roost on Corydon
The Roost on Corydon offers a unique dining experience in Winnipeg, with a menu that thoughtfully caters to both vegan and omnivorous diners alike.
Their offerings include an array of dishes that creatively incorporate vegan options, ensuring that everyone at the table can find something to enjoy. Highlighting their commitment to inclusivity and flavor, the “buffalo tofu bun” and the “big mac tofu steam bun” stand out as inventive vegan takes on classic comfort foods.
These dishes, featuring rich flavors and satisfying textures, showcase The Roost’s ability to transform simple ingredients into something truly special.
Additionally, The Roost’s “roost burger,” with its shawarma mushroom patty, is a testament to the kitchen’s creativity and dedication to providing substantial vegan options.
Alongside these, the “brussel sprouts” with miso, fried shallots, and chili crisp offer a deliciously vegan side that complements any meal. For those with a sweet tooth, the “ice cream cake” presents a delightful vegan dessert option, proving that indulgence has a place in plant-based eating.
The Roost on Corydon’s approach to vegan dining is not just about offering alternatives; it’s about celebrating the diversity of ingredients and flavors that plant-based cuisine has to offer.
Amsterdam Tea Room and Bar
The Amsterdam Tea Room and Bar, while primarily celebrated as a cocktail bar, distinguishes itself with a menu that thoughtfully includes vegan options, ensuring that all guests can enjoy a bite alongside their beverage of choice.
This establishment, nestled in Winnipeg’s vibrant scene, offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere where both drink and food menus are crafted with care and creativity. Among its food offerings, the “Roasted Squash Hummus” stands out as a vegan delight. Served with bread, this dish combines the rich flavors of squash and chickpeas with the aromatic presence of tahini, garlic, lemon, and smoked paprika, creating a perfect blend of taste and texture.
Another notable option for those seeking plant-based dishes is the “Roasted Pepper Sandwich,” available during lunch hours. This sandwich features oven-roasted bell peppers and butternut squash hummus, layered with toum (garlic sauce) and arugula, and dressed with a Barn Hammer Stout vinaigrette and spiced seeds, all nestled between slices of pumpernickel bread.
It’s a testament to Amsterdam Tea Room’s commitment to providing diverse and flavorful options to its patrons. By incorporating vegan dishes into its menu, the Amsterdam Tea Room ensures that everyone, regardless of dietary preferences, can enjoy high-quality, delicious food in a setting renowned for its selection of teas and welcoming ambiance.
Thyme Cafe and Books
Thyme Cafe and Books in Winnipeg’s St. Boniface area offers a cozy retreat for those seeking a space where delicious vegan food and a love for literature meet.
With a focus on wholesome, maple syrup-sweetened treats and a diverse range of vegan-friendly meals, this cafe stands out for its commitment to health-conscious and environmentally friendly dining options.
Among their offerings, the chickpea-vegetable frittata served on a ciabatta bun or gluten-free sourdough for breakfast provides a savory start to the day, blending fresh vegetables with house vegan cheese sauce and vegan mayo for a delightful morning meal.
For lunch, the house-made black bean burger showcases the cafe’s knack for crafting satisfying, plant-based versions of classic favorites. Packed with beets, carrots, sunflower seeds, and more, this burger is dressed with house cheese sauce, lettuce, oven-roasted tomatoes, and dill pickles, offering a hearty and flavorful option.
This commitment to quality, flavor, and sustainability makes Thyme Cafe and Books a cherished spot in Winnipeg’s vegan dining scene.
Affinity Vegetarian Garden
Affinity Vegetarian Garden offers a tranquil oasis for those exploring the diverse landscape of vegan dining in Winnipeg.
As a dedicated vegetarian (with a focus on vegan options) restaurant, Affinity Vegetarian Garden specializes in Taiwanese-Chinese cuisine, presenting a menu that is as thoughtful as it is flavorful. Their dishes are crafted with a deep respect for traditional flavors while embracing the plant-based ethos, providing a delightful experience for vegans, vegetarians, and curious omnivores alike.
The use of soy protein and other meat alternatives allows them to recreate the essence of classic Chinese dishes without the use of animal products, ensuring a guilt-free dining experience that doesn’t compromise on taste.
The restaurant’s ambiance, characterized by its calming and inviting atmosphere, complements the menu perfectly, making it an ideal spot for both casual meals and special occasions. From savory soups and appetizers to hearty main courses and delectable desserts, each dish is prepared with care, emphasizing fresh ingredients and authentic flavors.
Affinity Vegetarian Garden’s commitment to offering a comprehensive vegan menu highlights its dedication to sustainability, health, and the enjoyment of its patrons.