Despite universities making pronounced efforts to increase healthy eating options on campus, college is still known to cause many nutritional casualties. Vanderbilt students, herbivorous and omnivorous, are lucky to have fantastic vegan spots near campus. These are the 5 best vegan options in Nashville that are ethical, reasonably-priced, and serve innovative plant-based fare.
1. The Wild Cow
The Wild Cow serves vegetarian and vegan dishes, and rotates monthly charities to which they donate 2.5% of all proceeds. My favorite meal is the taco sampler: a plate of three different mini vegan tacos, and a vegan side of your choice.
Other delicious options include quinoa bowls, wraps, sandwiches, and noodles. Feel free to indulge, knowing you're giving back to a great cause as well!
2. Avo
Avo dishes up raw and cooked vegan appetizers and entrées- perfect for a post-weekend detox or nutritious break from campus food. I love the kimchi spring rolls, but lately the cauliflower "steak" has been calling my name! Avo patrons can also choose from zoodle dishes, miso-peanut butter apples, sesame popcorn, and avocado toast.
3. Sunflower Café
Sunflower Café crafts wholesome vegetarian and vegan wraps, grain bowls, and tacos in a quaint, laid-back atmosphere. I'm a fan of the curried chickpea salad, but the aloo gobi over sunflower rice is also a winner.
4. Graze
Graze is The Wild Cow's slighter classier and more sophisticated older sister. Serving elevated plant-based fare, Graze has quickly become a favorite for veggie-lovers, despite being new to the East Nashville scene.
The cashew alfredo and vegan mac n' cheese are my go-to items. Other customer favorites include the veggie burger and the wheat-ball sub.
5. Vegan Vee
While not a restaurant per se, Vegan Vee bakes some of Nashville's most delicious vegan and gluten-free treats. From selling baked-goods at local restaurants to owning a full-fledged bakery in Sylvan Park, Vegan Vee will satisfy your sweet-tooth without sabotaging your health goals.