1. Now and Zen
Now and Zen is a small sushi restaurant downtown with plenty of great vegan options for those like me who still want their sushi fix. They’ve come up with some creative combinations like mango and avocado, while still having classics like the Inari roll. The dining experience is always great and the price for what you get is awesome.
2. Monsoon Siam
I do love Thai food and this restaurant, conveniently enough, is right next door to Now and Zen. It has a great outdoor dining area and I would recommend going for their lunch special. You can get classic Thai dishes like Pad Thai and spring rolls for under $10. This place is definitely a place to check out if you’re willing to leave the Corner and venture downtown.
3. Bodos
Okay, I couldn’t leave out this classic. I always love a good bagel and Bodos has some great toppings for vegans, such as hummus, avocado, peanut butter, etc. My personal favourite combo is an everything bagel with hummus, avocado, sprouts, cucumber, and tomatoes. They also have a veggie patty that apparently is pretty delicious, though I have yet to try it myself.
4. Bizou
This restaurant is another great restaurant downtown along the historical strip. They offer great vegan options and the dining experience is fantastic. The servers are very friendly and enthusiastic, and the food is just spectacular. This place is perfect for vegans and non-vegans alike!
5. Roots
Roots just recently opened on the Corner and I am so happy it was started. They serve the best salad bowls/rice bowls that I’ve had in awhile and frankly, it was time for Charlottesville to have a restaurant that’s not only convenient, but healthy! I love coming up with my own combinations and the workers are super friendly. The line is usually out the door during prime meal hours, but it is definitely worth the wait.
6. The Spot (Vu Noodles/Greenie’s)
This place is a hard one to spot, as it’s located on the side street and is rather small. But, it has really great vegan food and if you find yourself downtown just wandering around, you should definitely try it out. They also sell food at the Charlottesville Farmer’s Market and the owners are really nice and helpful in choosing what to get! They mainly sell Thai/Vietnamese food, but they also a variety of different dishes. It is a must-try if you’re a vegan in Cville.