Vegetarian-Friendly East Austin Restaurants

Nutritious and Delicious

Words by Sam Lauron Photo of Bento Picnic by Ashley Haguewood

Fresh, steamed, or covered in savory toppings, there are plenty of ways to eat protein-packed vegetables. Regardless of your preferences, these East Austin restaurants should be at the top of the list for delicious meatless meals.

Conscious Cravings 
Few combinations are as light and satisfying as a wrap and smoothie. Luckily, guests can find both at Conscious Cravings. The vegan food trailer serves up nutrient-packed salads, smoothies, and wraps like their popular Spicy Chickpea, which features Indian-style chickpeas, lettuce, tomatoes, and grilled onions in a chimichurri sauce. Pop by the Mueller location for the ideal post-run treat. 
4209 Airport Blvd. | consciouscravingsaustin.com

Nancy’s Sky Garden 
Known for their colorful plates overflowing with bright ingredients, Nancy’s Sky Garden takes a fresh approach to healthy eating. Here, patrons can build their own bowl using components like sweet potato noodles, teriyaki tofu, and a rainbow medley of fresh fruits and vegetables. Additional veggie-friendly items include poke bowls, prism rolls, and soups. 
6448 E. Hwy 290 #A-100 | nancysskygarden.com

Mr. Natural 
Mr. Natural has been a go-to for accessible vegetarian dishes for more than 20 years. The longtime establishment features an extensive menu with breakfast, lunch and dinner options like chilaquiles, tacos, and other Tex-Mex plates. Best of all, their menu items are clearly marked by dietary need, whether that’s vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free. Be sure to stop by the bakery while you’re there to pick up a vegan baked treat like a brownie or cake. 
1901 E. Cesar Chavez St. | mrnatural-austin.com

Austin Daily Press
Inventive sandwiches and savory snacks are the name of the game at Austin Daily Press. The menu features their signature tortas as well as tapas like fried Brussels sprouts and jalapeño hush puppies. The hearty tortas can also accommodate many diets by being served as a rice bowl with a gluten-free option of jasmine rice or a keto option of cauliflower rice. 
1900 E. MLK Blvd., 4620 E. Cesar Chavez St. | austindailypress.com

Bento Picnic
Inspired by Japanese-style bento boxes, Bento Picnic offers a unique way to approach healthy foods. Their signature bento boxes are designed with color, taste, and technique in mind. Each one comes with seasonal veggies, housemade pickles, a base of rice, soba noodles, or salad, and a choice of protein, like tofu or mushrooms. Looking for a quick, healthy meal on the go? Bento Picnic’s grab and go options can be found at Austin Bouldering Project.
2600 E Cesar Chavez St. | bentopicnic.com