Anyone who’s ever been on a plant-based diet knows that dining out can be disappointing when the vegetarian options on a menu are scarce or nonexistent. But at these vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Northern Virginia, you won’t be limited to a side salad or plain pasta. Here you’ll find flavorful, filling meals designed to satisfy cravings without relying on meat.
Amma Vegetarian Kitchen
Indian specialties like dosas, samosas, and uttappam — an open-faced dosa topped with hearty fillings — abound at Amma. One menu highlight is Amma’s Feast, a combination meal with rice, chapati, two curries, sambar, and more. 344 Maple Ave. E., Vienna
Chay Restaurant
You’ll find meatless versions of your favorite Vietnamese dishes at this new Falls Church spot. The 100 percent vegetarian menu boasts dishes like shaky “beef,” bo luc lac, and summer rolls packed with vermicelli and veggies. Not every dish here is vegan, but a large portion of the menu is, making it a great spot for anyone who passes on all animal products. 6351 Columbia Pk., Ste. 201, Falls Church
Bubbie’s Plant Burgers & Fizz
Sometimes all you want is a burger. Satisfy the craving without the meat at Bubbie’s in National Landing’s Water Park, where you’ll find options for Impossible burgers, beet patties, and plant-based fried “chicken” sandwiches. Other offerings include fresh salads, including one topped with “steak” made from mushroom root, and sides like fries, mozzarella sticks, and onion rings. 1761 Crystal Dr., Arlington
Falafel Inc.
This fast casual Mediterranean spot serves low-cost, high-flavor bites that don’t disappoint. The falafel sandwiches and bowls are less than $10 and come packed with the company’s signature chickpea bites and plenty of toppings, plus the option to add hummus — it’s a great way to get a protein-filled meal that doesn’t rely on meat. 724 King St., Alexandria; Tysons Corner Center: 1961 Chain Bridge Rd., Tysons, Level 1; 1631 Crystal Dr., Arlington
Jodhpur
Get a little bite of everything with the all-you-can-eat thali at this vegetarian Herndon spot. Thalis, an Indian specialty, feature a trayful of different curries, sauces, stews, with rice, bati, and roti to soak them up. The day of the week determines what delicacies will be on your tray, and you can refill on your favorite bites throughout the meal. 1114 Herndon Pkwy., Herndon
Sunflower Vegetarian Restaurant
You’ll find vegetarian dishes in Chinese, Japanese, and continental styles at this spot in Vienna. Choose from veggie stir fry options, faux chicken or shrimp in styles like General Tso’s, and plant-based sushi that subs in ingredients like sweet potato and imitation shrimp for raw fish. 2531 Chain Bridge Rd., Vienna
Vegan Desserts
After a vegetarian meal, you may want to finishc it off with something sweet. Here are two options in NoVA for desserts that are completely plant-based.
MidnighTreats
The cookies at this area bakeshop are massive, and they’re made without dairy, eggs, or other animal products. The classic flavors, including chocolate chip, confetti, brownie, and cinnamon roll, are always available. There are specialty flavors that rotate bi-weekly. Multiple area locations
Crème de la Crop
Grab a pint of vegan ice cream or cake cup from this ice cream parlor in Herndon. In addition to being vegan, the treats are also gluten-free. Try sweets like a key lime pie bar or mint-matcha–flavored ice cream. It’s open weekly on Saturdays. Preordering on the website is encouraged but not required. 273 Sunset Park Dr., Herndon
Feature image of Chay Restaurant by Alice Levitt
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