Olivia Hanna
Vegan food has come a long way since the movement first became mainstream in U.S. in the 2010s. Gainesville has some amazing alternatives for those who choose to eat plant-based diets.
This list comprises the best of vegan eating in Alachua County, with several offering 100% vegan menus along with gluten free and organic options.
Suki’s Vegan
Suki’s Vegan opened its first brick-and-mortar location in Haile Plantation Village in 2022. The restaurant focuses on vegan, Korean, Asian and American inspired food.
You can enjoy stir fry, fried rice and tacos, along with milkshakes, teas and alcoholic beverages. The fan favorites are the zucchini pancakes and the house-made kimchi pancakes.
Suki’s also offers brunch with vegan croissants, cinnamon rolls and pancakes.
Hours: 11 a.m.-3 p.m., 4 p.m.-9 p.m. Tues.-Sun.
Location: 5141 SW 91st Way
Vegan Gator
The traveling food truck Vegan Gator has quite a reputation throughout the state for its delicious plant-based options.
Vegan Gator is based in Gainesville but travels daily, so make sure you check their schedule for the week on Instagram or Facebook.
The 100% vegan food truck is best known for its burgers and wings, but another unique offering is its plant-based shrimp basket. Vegan Gator also has fries, milkshakes and sandwiches.
For hours and the location of Vegan Gator, check out its Facebook or Instagram page.
Plantology
Most people would likely not associate plant-based food with comfort food, but places like Plantology are changing that.
Plantology serves completely vegan dishes like fried chicken sandwiches, burgers and mac n’ cheese.
Everything is made in house and all of the fresh produce Plantology uses is organic. Reviewers love burgers that are made from scratch.
Hours: 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sun.-Thurs., 11 a.m. 8 p.m. Fri., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat.
Location: 931 SW 2nd Avenue
Curia on the Drag
Located on 2.5 acres, Curia on the Drag is a haven for vegans. The property has a coffee shop, food truck and market.
The coffee shop offers coffee, tea, baked goods and desserts, while the food truck serves 100% plant-based meals with a rotational menu that highlights seasonal ingredients.
The jackfruit quesadilla is the fan favorite menu item, but the food truck also serves tacos, sandwiches and vegan hot dogs.
After a meal, visit the AUK Market to browse vintage, handmade and rare gifts such as home goods, jewelry and clothing.
Kitchen Hours: 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sun.-Sat.
Location: 2029 NW 6th Street
Bambi’s Café + Farm Market
Located in downtown High Springs, Bambi’s is a hybrid market and café. 100% vegan and organic, the café has options ranging from coffees and teas to soups and pasta dishes. Bambi is also a shop offering produce from four local farms in the area that is in season.
Reviewers rave about fresh, local food that tastes delicious. The menu is always changing, so check the café’s Facebook page for the latest offerings.
Hours: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Tue., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wed.-Fri.
Location: 18592 High Springs Main Street