If you’re searching for an Austin original, this is the place. Opened by Leslie Martin in 2000, step inside the cozy vegan cafe on South 1st Street to find scratch-made plates, fresh coffee and lots of character. You won’t get bored with an array of options from all-day breakfast to delightful desserts topped with Luv Fats Ice Cream. Thanks to a continued focus on supporting local businesses, supplying fair wages and fostering community, you’ll leave feeling good in more ways than one.

You may have spotted this restaurant at a festival or two. What started as a family-owned food truck has evolved into a vibrant, octopus-clad brick-and-mortar known for its friendly atmosphere and dynamite burritos. It’s worth trying them all, but don’t miss the Freeto Burrito, packed with organic tempeh chili, corn chips, avocado and vegan cheese. You’ll also find an assortment of Zucchini Kill baked goods here, but more on that later.

Austin’s got a stylish new date spot. Nori serves delicious plant-based Japanese dishes, from Gyoza with Impossible Meat and Ginger Miso Ramen to a variety of nigiri and maki bursting with color and, most importantly, flavor. The distinct destination opened last August just north of the Drag. Indulge in a late night or pop in for happy hour, available every Tuesday through Thursday from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Either way, you’re in for an adventure.

Casa de Luz makes for a charming and unique communal dining experience. Served cafeteria-style, the set daily breakfast, lunch and dinner menus are rooted in macrobiotic, whole plant nutrition, free from chemicals, animal products, gluten or refined sugars. Diners can usually expect a salad, soup and main dish in hearty portions. The grounds are expansive and gorgeous, with ample outdoor seating underneath lush greenery. Also, keep an eye out for regular events and yoga classes!

While not everything here is 100% plant-based or vegan, there are plenty of thoughtfully-prepared plates to be had at The Well. The chic interiors are light and airy, with a menu that places importance on sustainable, healthy and flavor-forward dining. The concept was thought up by Nova Hospitality’s Jon Oh and health coach Liv Langdon. Everything is free from gluten, soy and refined sugar, and the majority of options are vegan or vegetarian — a refreshing twist.

East Austinite and chef Chris Rios spent years fine-tuning his recipes in search for the ultimate vegan taco before establishing this bold eatery. With a mission to save the planet, the menu features the usual Tex-Mex staples — but that’s not all. The Vegan Nom park has become a compound for Rios’ culinary creations, with sister restaurant Nom Burgers and a newly-opened tiny donuts and coffee trailer, Percolator, as next door neighbors. It’s a one-stop destination for seriously tasty food.

Nearly a year after moving into its first brick-and-mortar location, Nissi has garnered a loyal following. Run by Sergio Tamez, who missed the traditional Mexican dishes of his youth after embarking on a vegan lifestyle, the goal was to get as close as possible to the real deal, minus the negative ecological impacts. The majority of menu items are gluten-free and organic, with six varieties of protein to choose from. We recommend the Cheek'n Flautas and Birria Tacos!

Family-operated since 1988, this time-honored institution is a gluten-free bakery, juice and smoothie bar, holistic wellness store and Tex-Mex vegan diner all in one, serving up large portions from its two homey dining rooms in south and east Austin (where you’ll likely recognize the colorful street mural dedicated to noteworthy vegetarians.) Look out for tempting daily specials, but whatever you do, don’t skimp on the vegan cakes, which make a perfect addition to special occasions.

Honest Mary’s emphasizes quality ingredients and healthy choices — something you don’t readily think of when it comes to eating on-the-go. With an outpost in the Arboretum and Rosedale, the fast-casual spot was started by Nelson Monteith after discovering the benefits of nutritious food firsthand. Out of six signature grain bowls, half are vegan and all are gluten-free, with the option to Build Your Own for added customization. Everyone in your group will find something to enjoy!

Start the day off right or get back on track at this all-vegan bakery. Also in our guide to Austin’s Best Baked Goods, the musician and women-owned sweets shop was inspired by the ‘90s feminist punk scene, creating rebellious treats that shun the norm — or at least shun divisive ingredients, including dairy, artificial food dye and soy. We’re obsessed with the chocolate cake and vanilla cream-filled Rebel Swrrrl Swiss Rolls. There’s also now a second outpost at the recently-opened Tweedy’s Bar.