Cafe Du Monde, near the French Market, offers delightful beignets.

Your Guide to Vegan Food in Louisiana

Louisiana’s gumbo pots and crawfish boils carry deep cultural roots, but a new chapter in the state’s food history is bubbling up with vibrant vegan creations. 

Throughout the state, From New Orleans to Lake Charles, you'll find everything from Southern staples to global flavors reimagined for plant-based palates. Think crispy vegan po' boys, spicy gumbo filled with fresh veggies and lots of sugar-dusted beignets. Ready to dive into Louisiana’s flavorful vegan finds? This guide will show you where to start.

New Orleans

In the Big Easy, beyond signature Creole and Cajun fare, you'll find creative vegan twists on traditional dishes. This is a soulful city where food tells a story, and there are plenty of places where plant-based diners can get a taste of what makes New Orleans one of the top culinary destinations in the country.

An array of Mediterranean dishes on a wood table at 1000 Figs in New Orleans

1000 Figs

Powdered-sugar-dusted beignets from Meals from the Heart in New Orleans

Meals From the Heart Cafe

perfectly baked vegan croissants from Breads on Oak in New Orleans

Breads on Oak

Gumbo Shop 

The Gumbo Shop in the heart of the French Quarter always features vegan options and a daily rotating vegetarian (often vegan!) special. Savor hearty white beans and rice, creamy gumbo z’herbes or a loaded veggie po'boy. And of course, if you're traveling with omnivorous friends, they’ll be thrilled with the gumbo, jambalaya, red beans and rice, étouffée and po'boys that The Gumbo Shop has been serving up since 1948.

Menu | 630 St. Peter St., New Orleans

Killer PoBoys

Killer PoBoys crafts vegan sandos that redefine the classic. Try the Thai BBQ Tofu Po' Boy, featuring Thai chili mirliton slaw, spiced peanuts and a sprinkle of coconut. If you're in the mood for something hearty, the Roasted Sweet Potato Po' Boy, paired with braised collard greens and a nutty black-eyed pea spread, won’t disappoint. And don’t sleep on the pecan butter and jelly with salty, house-made pecan butter and a rotating fruit jelly, all nestled between toasted whole-grain bread. 

Menu | 219 Dauphine St., New Orleans

Meals from the Heart Cafe

For a morning stop, Meals from the Heart Cafe’s double-stack pancakes, grits and vegan sausage links are a favorite in the bustling French Market. But for a true taste of New Orleans, try their Vegan Krab Po'boy: Two “krab cakes” on French bread topped with leafy spring mix, tomato and tangy remoulade sauce. The okra gumbo is another highlight, with zucchini, roasted red peppers and mushrooms simmered in Cajun spices. And if you have room, indulge in their house-made vegan beignets — fluffy fried dough dusted generously with powdered sugar.

Menu | 1100 N Peters St., #13, New Orleans

Sweet Soulfood

If you’re craving a complete vegan feast, wander the historical, mural-covered streets in the Tremé neighborhood and stop by Sweet Soulfood for lunch. Walk up to the counter and pile your plate high with sweet-heat cauliflower, creamy mac n’ cheese, spicy jambalaya, collard greens and herby potato salad. Don’t miss the super-savory mushrooms n' gravy, green beans and cornbread dressing. For dessert, pick sweet slices of bread pudding or a thick, fudgy brownie. 

Menu | 1025 N Broad St., New Orleans

Breads on Oak

Breads on Oak is a gem in New Orleans for herbivores, with a menu full of organic, plant-based baked goods and sammies. Be tempted by the pumpkin cheddar biscuit sandwich: A warm cheddar biscuit with aioli, tofu scramble and peppery andouille sausage. For lunch, the Muffaletta is a local favorite, with vegan Italian ham, bacon, provolone and tangy olive salad on a sesame roll. Finish with a slice of their Grand Ganache Cake with layers of thick, fair-trade chocolate ganache.

Menu | 8640 Oak St., Suite A, New Orleans

1000 Figs 

At 1000 Figs in the nature-filled neighborhood of Bayou St. John, Middle Eastern cuisine bursts with flavor in a clean, modern atmosphere. To try all their best veg options, order the Vegan Falafel Feast, a generous spread of freshly fried falafel, a pint of hummus, smoky baba ghanouj, pickled veggies and crunchy kale-and-cabbage salad. It’s served with creamy tahini, zhoug and garlicy toum, paired with a basket of warm bread. 

Menu | 3141 Ponce De Leon St., STE 1, New Orleans

I-tal Garden

Family-owned and fully plant-based, I-tal Garden serves up iconic flavors of NOLA. Get the I-tal Plate: coconut-curry black-eyed peas paired with greens and cornbread fried cauliflower. Meanwhile, the Mac Plate delivers dairy-free mac and cheese alongside collard greens, buttery cornbread and barbecue cauli-wings. Or opt for Cajun Oyster Bites made from golden, chickpea-battered oyster mushrooms. 

Menu | 810 N Claiborne Ave., New Orleans

2 Phat Vegans

Set in the Old Algiers neighborhood, where a rainbow of Victorian-style buildings line the streets, 2 Phat Vegans serves up an indulgent take on plant-based comfort food. Start with a big plate of their crispy fried okra. Then, take a bite out of the Phat Slab Sandwich, stacked with sweet and saucy barbecue jackfruit ribs on a kaiser bun topped with mayo and veg. If you’re craving something with a kick, try the sizzling-hot sausage po’boy.

Menu | 3613 General Meyer Ave., New Orleans

Baton Rouge

Baton Rouge combines a laid-back Southern vibe with an eclectic food scene. Stroll through oak-tree-lined streets, explore local boutiques or jam out at music events that regularly pop up throughout the city. While traditional Creole and Cajun dishes dominate, there are plenty of plant-based options to discover.

barbecue-sauce-covered jackfruit ribs sit on a bed of lettuce at Veganish Vibes in Baton Rouge

Veganish Vibes

an onion-ring-covered burger from Plantry Cafe in Baton Rouge drips with sauce

The Plantry Café

A veggie-forward dish with pita bread triangles on the side from MJ's Cafe

MJ's Café

MJ’s Café

With a dining room covered in eclectic art and colorful flowers, MJ’s Cafe is a perfect place to settle in for a healthy lunch. Kick things off with the sweet heat wrap — barbecue chickpeas, sweet potatoes and grilled onions all tucked in a warm pita and drizzled with barbecue sauce and ranch. And if you're there for Sunday brunch, their French toast is a must-try: Thick slices of sourdough soaked with vanilla and cinnamon, then fried up and topped with bananas, blueberries, strawberries and a snowfall of powdered sugar. 

Menu | 5162 Government St., Baton Rouge

Veganish Vibes

A fully vegan restaurant in Baton Rouge, Veganish Vibes reimagines Louisiana classics with a deliciously plant-based twist. Dig into creamy red beans and rice, juicy jackfruit ribs or a seafood potato overflowing with savory lion’s mane mushrooms. For dessert, indulge in fluffy beignets blanketed with powdered sugar or a rich bread pudding drizzled with rum sauce.

Menu | 4608 Bennington Ave., Suite A, Baton Rouge

The Plantry Café

For a stylish and whimsical experience, visit The Plantry Café for vegan charcuterie, natural wine flights and high tea complete with biscuits, scones and jam. For lunch, munch on their mushroom scallops with remoulade or the oyster-mushroom po'boy. Sip a glass of vino and savor their seasonal risottos and cashew-cheese platters that highlight locally sourced ingredients.

Menu | 5454 Bluebonnet Blvd. STE B, Baton Rouge

Lafayette

Lafayette stands out with its winding bayous and vibrant Cajun culture. The city pulses with a rich heritage where Southern cuisine sings and live music spills from local venues. More than just a hub for fried chicken and crawfish, Lafayette now also boasts an array of vegan options that reflect its culinary diversity.

Crispy vegetable pakoras from Masala Indian Kitchen in Lafayette

Masala Indian Kitchen

A clean bar and wooden tables and chairs surrounded by blue walls with murals at Scratch Farm Kitchen

Scratch Farm Kitchen

Scratch Farm Kitchen

Scratch Farm Kitchen caters to all kinds of dietary preferences, but their vegan offerings are some of the most delicious on the menu. Taste their creamy coconut curry with sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, carrots and tofu — just be sure to request the vegan option. But with a lineup that changes regularly, it’s always a treat to see what seasonal veggies are on the table when you visit.

2918 Johnston St, Lafayette

Five Mile Eatery

For a breakfast worth getting up early for, Five Mile Eatery is a cool co-op that goes beyond the ordinary with their flavor combos. The Harvest Mood Seedy Toast pairs sourdough with nut cheese, avocado chickpeas, maitake mushrooms, fermented carrots and dried cherries. Alongside, sip a Mystic Mocha steamed up with rosemary, maca, activated charcoal, sage, espresso and your choice of plant milk. 

Menu | 317 Heymann Blvd., Lafayette

Masala Indian Kitchen

Masala Indian Kitchen has a menu full of clearly marked vegan options with all the authentic flavors you love. Begin the meal with potato-and-pea-stuffed samosas and mixed veggie pakoras with fruity mint and tamarind chutney. The daal tadka’s yellow lentils simmered with onions, tomatoes and mild spices are a magnificent main along with the bhindi masala — sauteed okra with tomatoes, cilantro and dried mango powder. 

Menu | 2208 Kaliste Saloom Road, Lafayette

Lake Charles

After a day walking along the Calcasieu River waterfront, stopping into boutiques and trekking trails lined with live oaks draped in Spanish moss, you’re sure to work up a healthy appetite in Lake Charles. As the culinary landscape grows, foodies can enjoy a variety of plant-based options that reflect the area's evolving tastes.

A beautiful dragon fruit bowl has a pink smoothie, granola, blueberries and coconut, from Main Squeeze in Lake Charles

Main Squeeze Juice Co.

A vegan meatball sub covered in white sauce from Creole Hidden Garden in Lake Charles

Creole Hidden Garden

Creole Hidden Garden       

While the Creole Hidden Garden food truck is often on the move visiting Louisiana festivals and events, its home town — and primary spot to set up shop — is in Lake Charles on Broad Street. The menu is always evolving, but you can bet it’s going to include mouthwatering treats like juicy smash burgers and veggie egg rolls with crunchy red cabbage and broccoli. The real showstopper? The desserts — like their soulful sweet-potato pie and homemade, dairy-free ice cream. 

Menu | 1948 Broad St., Lake Charles

Main Squeeze Juice Co.

Kick your day off with a healthy serving of super foods at Main Squeeze Juice Co.. Order the Açaí Berry Bowl — chock-full of wild-harvested acai, almond milk, banana and blueberries, and sprinkled with crunchy granola — just ask for no honey to keep it fully vegan. For a savory option, the Maple Breakfast Sandwich features a vegan and gluten-free English muffin, vegan sausage patty and vegan egg drizzled with house-made date butter and a pinch of Himalayan salt. Stop in to grab a snack to go or take a seat and chat with friends. 

Menu | 3629 Nelson Road, Suite 100, Lake Charles

Toga Grill

At Toga Grill, the scent of sizzling falafel and baked pita will hit you the moment you step inside. This Mediterranean spot offers vegans a variety of flavorful options, from crispy falafel plates to pita pizzas. Bite into a falafel burger with a side of creamy tahini, or try a sandwich packed with veggies. Fresh ingredients like chopped parsley, cucumber and tomatoes shine in every dish.

Menu | 4439 Nelson Road, Lake Charles

Shreveport & Bossier City

Shreveport and Bossier City are known for their lively riverfront, where casinos glitter next to concert venues and local shops. Whether you're looking for dinner before catching a show at the Shreveport Municipal Auditorium or lunch after strolling through the lush gardens of the R.W. Norton Art Gallery, the cities have a bunch of activities that pair perfectly with a plant-based meal.

A vegan burger from Good Wishes Cafe in Shreveport

Good Wishes Cafe

A vegan meal is sprinkled with dairy-free cheese and chives from Vegans on the Run in Shreveport

Vegans on the Run

Vegans on the Run

Vegans on the Run serves up vegan soul food with dishes like the Loaded Chik’n Cornbread Bowl. Creamy mashed potatoes are topped with crispy fried vegan chicken, sweet corn and rich brown gravy, all served in a cornbread bowl. Their Southern Peach Cobbler is a sweet finish to the meal, with juicy peach slices in a caramelized brown-sugar crust. The warm, home-cooked flavors make this place feel like a visit to grandma’s kitchen, with a vegan twist.

Menu | 1210 Milam St., Shreveport

Glow Alchemy Kitchen

For something unique and health-conscious, Glow Alchemy Kitchen offers tacos filled with roasted cauliflower florets, smothered in cashew queso and topped with a crunchy cabbage slaw. Pair them with a handcrafted drink, like the Magic Mushroom Cacao, a blend of rich cacao and warm cinnamon mixed with chaga and reishi mushrooms, known for their stress-relieving benefits.

Menu | 955 Pierremont Road, Shreveport

Good Wishes Cafe

Good Wishes Cafe takes a whole-foods, plant-based approach to comfort food. Start your day with a fiber-packed carrot or chocolate-beet muffin, or go for a hearty burrito stuffed with rice, beans and spicy homemade hot sauce. Their nachos, loaded with zesty pico de gallo and creamy avocado are another favorite. The clean, modern atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a wholesome, feel-good meal.

Menu | 1405 Fairfield Ave., Shreveport

Divine9 Cuisine

Divine9 Cuisine, a hidden gem in Bossier City, has plenty of tasty, vegan Vietnamese dishes. The veggie fried rice is chock-full of broccoli and carrots, and sprinkled with green onions, while the veggie pho broth is brimming with umami-rich mushrooms and crisp vegetables. Just ask for no egg, and you have a comforting, fully vegan meal.

Menu | 1964 Airline Dr, Bossier City

Alexandria

In the heart of Central Louisiana, Alexandria  boasts stunning nature, historical landmarks and a welcoming riverfront, perfect for a quiet stroll after exploring the local boutiques or catching a live show at the Coughlin-Saunders Performing Arts Center. Though there may not be many fully vegan spots, several restaurants offer dishes that will satisfy any craving.

Exterior of Salad Station

The Salad Station

A plate full of saucy veggies from Mandarin Chinese & Sushi in Alexandria

Mandarin Chinese & Sushi

The Salad Station

A quick, nutritious option for lunch, The Salad Station lets you build your perfect bowl. Start with a base of leafy greens — romaine, spring mix or kale — then layer on edamame, chickpeas or black beans for a protein punch. Finish it off with a colorful array of toppings like creamy avocado, olives, crisp cucumbers and tart seasonal berries. 

Menu | 3220 Jackson St., Alexandria

Mandarin Chinese & Sushi

For a cozy meal with clean, bright flavors, Mandarin Chinese & Sushi has you covered. Start with crunchy spring rolls filled with carrots and rice noodles. Move on to vegetable sushi rolls packed with avocado and cucumber. Or enjoy the savory kung bo tofu, with sweet peppers and stir-fried veggies. The comfortable booths and warm lighting provide the perfect setting for a laid-back dining experience.

3150 N MacArthur Drive, Alexandria

Wildwood Pizza

At Wildwood Pizza, you can create a dairy-free masterpiece. Choose from a variety of toppings — like artichoke hearts, mushrooms and sun-dried tomatoes — sprinkled with lots of dairy-free cheese. Pair it with a bubbly fountain soda or sip on a glass of wine.

Menu | 1260 Texas Ave., Alexandria

Monroe & Ruston

Nestled along the Ouachita River, Monroe is a cultural hub. It’s lined with art galleries and performance venues like the Masur Museum of Art and the Monroe Symphony Orchestra. Ruston, just a short drive away, has a college-town vibe, home to Louisiana Tech University’s bustling campus. After a day spent roaming the area's vibrant arts scene, you’ll have worked up an appetite. Luckily, Monroe and Ruston deliver when it comes to plant-based eats.

A produce stand at Gibson's Fresh Grocer

Gibson's Fresh Grocer

A bowl of hummus with olive oil and an olives from Athena Restaurant in Monroe

Athena Greek and Lebanese Restaurant

Taste of India 

If you’re craving Indian cuisine, Taste of India won’t disappoint. A whole page of their menu is dedicated to vegetarian dishes, most of which can easily be made vegan. The dal tadka, a yellow lentil stew, bursts with earthy, spicy warmth. Pair it with warm roti and aromatic basmati rice. After your meal, explore their small grocery store filled with tasty South Asian snacks.

Menu | 1809 Roselawn Ave., Monroe

Gibson's Fresh Grocer

For a grab-and-go option in Ruston, Gibson's Fresh Grocer is the perfect pit stop. Stock up on vegan frozen pizzas, sandwiches and healthy snacks for your next outing. Whether you’re planning a picnic or need quick fuel for your adventures, this local grocer has a variety of vegan options to suit your needs.

201 N Service Road E, Ruston

Athena Greek And Lebanese Restaurant

At Athena, the menu celebrates Mediterranean flavors with vibrant, plant-based dishes. Start with koukia: fava beans tossed in olive oil, garlic and lemon. But the star here is the falafel, fried to a perfect crisp and served with creamy tahini sauce. Or go for the grilled veggie kabobs that combine zucchini, onions and bell peppers charred just right.

Menu | 6030 Line Ave. Suite 410, Shreveport