One of the many attributes that makes Guelph a desirable place to live and visit is its vibrant culinary scene. From food trucks to brew pubs, small local restaurants to larger chains, from the Asian inspired restaurants to the gastro pubs, there are so many great restaurants throughout the city.
What you might not know is that Guelph has a wide variety of options for people who are vegetarian or vegan. I would like to share some of my favourite vegetarian and vegan restaurants and menu items throughout the city that everyone should try, whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, flexitarian, or just want to try something different.
One of my favourite places to eat in Guelph is The Cornerstone Café, a vegetarian and vegan restaurant downtown Guelph boasting a great menu and a cozy atmosphere. The Cornerstone Club Sandwich with marinated tofu and avocado seems to be my family’s go-to. I personally love the Antojitos and Caesar Salad. End your meal with a slice of Tofu Cheesecake, it’s my favourite!
Another vegan restaurant popular in the Guelph scene is Boon Burger. This place is, as their name suggests, a burger joint, but all four patty options are vegan and their entire menu is 100% animal-free and plant-based. While their burgers are very popular, my personal favourite is the Boon Dog Wrapper.
Almost anything off the Zen Garden menu will be sure to please and all of it is vegetarian (vegan options are available). I generally like to pick off the appetizer menu, doubling up on Soy Drumsticks. Their soups and dumplings are also very delicious. They also offer Sushi, Dim Sum, noodle and rice dishes, and other mains that make it difficult to choose.
Another vegan restaurant everyone should try is Cadence. It has a wide selection of vegan menu items, including breakfast items, burgers, sandwiches, wraps, burritos, soups, salads, and rice bowls. They also have home made dessert and 4 different (vegan) cheeze options that are also made in-house. Call ahead to order bulk cheeze to take home.
There are, of course, many other restaurants in Guelph that are not specifically vegetarian that I love to frequent and offer many vegetarian options. Einstein’s Café has many options for vegetarians and can accommodate any diet. I love their pastas and salads, and their Mexican food is amazing.
The Sip Club is a great spot to eat and have a few drinks. It is also very vegan friendly. They offer many great items, but I would suggest the Spaghetti and “No-Meat” Balls and Corn Fritters.
I am sure that I have left out many great restaurants in Guelph that are worth mentioning. If I were to include all of the places I enjoy in Guelph, I would have to write a much longer blog. I hope that you have tried some of these amazing restaurants and cafes, but if you have not, consider them for your next night out.