So, you’re going to be in Baltimore. Congrats! After all, it’s called The Greatest City in America for a reason–and that reason might very well be its unique cuisine scene. While you may know it as Maryland’s iconic epicenter of all things crab, there’s a lot more to Charm City than Old Bay. From Natty Boh to Berger Cookies, you can find something for everyone: even vegans. Here are some highlights of Baltimore’s many options for the animal lovers among us:
1. One World Cafe
Nestled in Charles Village, One World Cafe is just a short walk away from John Hopkins University’s Homewood campus. The cafe is known for its cozy, eclectic atmosphere and creative menu items. One part coffee shop and two parts dining room, this cafe is perfect for hunkering down with work or grabbing brunch with friends.
Recommended: The Philly Cheese “Steak-less.”
2. The Land of Kush
No, it’s not a hookah lounge. With its signature brand of “VeganSoul,” this conscientious restaurant lets you enjoy your favorite comfort foods, guilt-free. The Land of Kush has been serving its plant-based fare to the likes of Stevie Wonder since it joined the historic Mount Vernon neighborhood in 2011. If you’re game, check out their award-winning vegan crab cakes for the full Baltimore experience.
Recommended: Kush BBQ Ribs
3. Golden West Cafe
Golden West’s funky interior decor makes this dining experience even more colorful. Serving New Mexican-style cuisine, the Hampden-based cafe puts a vegan spin on all things southwestern. In a rush? Swing by their sidewalk-side takeout window for a quick tofu taco run.
Recommended: Aztec Burrito
4. Paulie Gee’s
Pizza lovers, rejoice: this Hampden joint has a full offering of vegan pies. A communal space with industrial flair, the focal point of Paulie Gee’s dining room is its pair of wood-fired pizza ovens, where guests can watch their dough be stretched and sauced without ever leaving their seats. The restaurant even offers an animal-friendly take on Baltimore’s legendary pit beef–ask for the Jackie Brown.
Recommended: Red, White, and Greenpeace
5. Stall 11
Nestled within R. House, the popular Remington food hall, Stall 11 is the go-to vendor for those who abstain from animal consumption. With a 100% plant-based menu, this is a local hot spot for everything from noodle bowls to fresh-pressed juices. Find them under the sign that’s growing grass.
Recommended: The Raven Smoothie
6. Dooby’s
This Mount Vernon niche creates Korean-inspired dishes in a minimalistic cafe setting. Opt for the “Build A Bowl” to mix and match fresh veggies, proteins, and add-ons to your liking, or keep it simple with Dooby’s hearty avocado toast. Bring some work along: between the ample seating and full espresso bar, this is the perfect place to spend an afternoon with your nose to the grindstone.
Recommended: Spicy Korean Street-style Noodles
7. Harmony Bakery
Looking for a quick bite or a sweet snack? Hampden’s Harmony Bakery has both. Exclusively gluten-free, the bakery is a lifesaver for anyone with dietary restrictions. Stop by for vegan-friendly pastries, tarts, and flatbreads if you have a hankering for a treat.
Recommended: Good Karma Bars
No matter what your reason, choosing the vegan lifestyle won’t hold you back in Baltimore. Try any of these Mother Nature-approved picks for flavorful fare that even your meat-eating friends will love.