Albany's evolving culinary scene has a variety of restaurants with vegan and vegetarian menu items. From scratch kitchens, to quick grab-and-go spots, to a vegan delicatessen, there are many options for foodies with a plant-based diet. Scroll on to discover a few go-to spots in Albany for vegan and vegetarian cuisine. 

The Hollow Bar + Kitchen

The Hollow Bar + Kitchen is a cornerstone of vegetarian and vegan cuisine in the Capital Region. The downtown Albany restaurant has a menu stacked with mouthwatering dishes comprised of farm-fresh ingredients. Many of the classic pub fare offerings can be made vegan or vegetarian such as the 3-bean chili lager nachos, quesadilla, and fried mozzarella wedges. Seasonal vegan mains include plant-based ‘Pulled Pork’ with Nine Pin braised soy protein and brown butter sage eggplant with vegan parmesan. 

Iron Gate Cafe

Grab a seat in Iron Gate Cafe's picturesque garden patio and devour a vegan brunch! The family-owned and operated restaurant is located on the edge of Albany's Center Square neighborhood in a converted historic mansion. Specializing in breakfast, brunch and lunch, the menu features vegan options such as a Buffalo Seitan Wrap, Vegan French Toast, Tofu Scramble and Ultimate Vegan Breakfast Sandwich. 

Healthy On Lark

Healthy on Lark is a cozy cafe serving up local, organic farm-to-table food with plenty of vegan and gluten-free options. Nestled on Lark Street, the vegetarian restaurant offers vegan smoothies, fresh-pressed juices, vegan BLTs, organic teas, vegan breakfast burritos and more! It is a friendly spot to pop into for a quick breakfast or lunch. Healthy on Lark also offers catering, juice cleanses and a free 7 Day Detox program. 

Savoy Taproom

Savoy Taproom is a Lark Street staple! The menu features scratch-made food and a curated selection of cocktails and regional craft beverages. Start with the crispy Cauliflower "Wings" or vegetarians can try the Maple Brook Burrata or Pumpkin & Butternut Squash Ravioli. For a main dish, try either the Beyond Lark Burger, featuring a grilled vegan burger patty, or the Southwestern Style Rice and Beans. Don't be afraid to ask the bartender for a vegan whiskey sour! 

Bare Blends

Bare Blends, located in Guilderland's Stuyvesant Plaza, has an entirely gluten free and vegan menu. The smoothie bowls and blended beverages are all 100% plant based and feature fresh ingredients. Seasonal winter flavors for the smoothie bowls include gingerbread, snickerdoodle, candy cane, cranberry orange, peppermint mocha, pumpkin pie and more! Stop in for unique healthy to-go breakfast options including overnight oats and raw vegan sweet treats!