If you love the smoky, savory taste of bacon but also want to accommodate vegan friends or try plant-based dishes yourself, finding restaurants that serve both can be a challenge. This list covers bacon-focused eateries that also feature thoughtful vegan options, perfect for groups with diverse dietary preferences or anyone looking to explore flexible menus. Whether you crave classic bacon dishes or innovative vegan alternatives, these places deliver on both fronts.
1. The Smith (New York, NY)
The Smith is a lively American brasserie known for its crispy, thick-cut bacon served alongside classic comfort dishes like bacon-wrapped meatloaf and BLTs. What sets it apart is its commitment to inclusivity with vegan options such as their vegan jackfruit tacos and cauliflower steaks. Vegan diners won’t feel left out here, and bacon lovers can enjoy expertly cooked pork bacon in a bustling, casual atmosphere.
2. The Butcher’s Daughter (Los Angeles, CA)
This trendy plant-based café offers a unique twist by serving house-made vegan bacon crafted from shiitake mushrooms alongside its fresh vegetable-forward menu. While bacon lovers can order traditional bacon dishes like the bacon avocado toast, vegans can indulge in smoky, crispy mushroom bacon that captures the essence of the original. The Butcher’s Daughter is ideal for those seeking a hip spot where meat eaters and vegans can both find satisfying options.
3. Honest Burgers (London, UK)
Honest Burgers is a popular burger chain famous for its British beef and thick-cut bacon toppings. Importantly, they also offer a vegan burger made with a house-made patty paired with vegan smoked bacon strips crafted from seitan. This dual approach allows bacon enthusiasts and vegans to enjoy similar smoky flavors in a casual, no-frills setting. Honest Burgers’ commitment to quality and flavor makes it a go-to for mixed-diet groups.
4. Slutty Vegan (Atlanta, GA)
Slutty Vegan is a celebrated fast-casual chain specializing in fully vegan burgers and sandwiches that mimic classic bacon favorites using tempeh bacon and smoked coconut bacon. While there’s no real pork bacon here, meat-eaters who want to try vegan options alongside their usual bacon fix will find the smoky, crispy textures surprisingly satisfying. The vibrant atmosphere and creative menu have made Slutty Vegan a must-visit for anyone curious about plant-based bacon alternatives.
5. Blue Ribbon Brasserie (New York, NY)
Blue Ribbon Brasserie serves upscale American cuisine featuring house-cured bacon and inventive dishes like bacon-wrapped scallops. At the same time, their vegan menu includes items like roasted vegetable platters and a vegan mushroom bacon that adds umami depth to salads and sandwiches. This spot is perfect for diners who want a refined experience where both traditional and vegan bacon options are thoughtfully prepared.
6. Modern Market Eatery (Multiple US Locations)
Modern Market Eatery offers a wide menu that includes classic bacon sandwiches and a vegan bacon made from smoked coconut, available in their plant-based breakfast and lunch options. Their transparent sourcing and emphasis on fresh, clean ingredients make it easy for groups with mixed diets to find satisfying choices. The fast-casual style and reliable quality have made Modern Market a popular chain for flexible dining preferences.
7. Vedge (Philadelphia, PA)
Vedge is a high-end vegan restaurant that features smoky, house-made vegan bacon crafted from ingredients like tempeh and coconut. While the restaurant itself does not serve pork bacon, it’s a prime spot for bacon lovers interested in exploring sophisticated vegan bacon alternatives that are rich in flavor and texture. Vedge’s innovative approach to vegan cuisine has earned it critical acclaim and a loyal following.
8. Maple & Ash (Chicago, IL)
Maple & Ash is a modern steakhouse known for its decadent bacon dishes, including bacon-wrapped dates and thick-cut applewood smoked bacon. They also offer a vegan-friendly menu with items like smoked carrot bacon that can be added to salads or sandwiches. This allows guests who prefer plant-based options to enjoy smoky, bacon-inspired flavors in an upscale dining environment alongside traditional bacon lovers.
9. Cafe Gratitude (Los Angeles, CA)
Cafe Gratitude is a 100% plant-based restaurant serving creative vegan dishes, including a signature coconut bacon that replicates the crispy, smoky qualities of pork bacon. While they don’t serve real bacon, it’s a popular destination for bacon lovers open to plant-based alternatives that don’t skimp on flavor. The welcoming atmosphere and commitment to sustainable ingredients make it a great choice for conscious diners.
10. The Counter (Multiple US Locations)
The Counter is a build-your-own burger chain offering real bacon as an add-on and an option for vegan bacon made from smoked tempeh. This customization makes it easy for groups with different preferences to get exactly what they want, whether it’s traditional pork bacon or a smoky vegan alternative. The casual vibe and wide range of toppings and bases provide a flexible dining experience that satisfies everyone.
How to Choose
When selecting a bacon restaurant with vegan options, consider the quality and authenticity of both the pork and vegan bacon alternatives. Some restaurants excel in traditional bacon preparation, while others focus on innovative plant-based substitutes that are flavorful and texturally satisfying. Location and atmosphere matter too—whether you want a casual spot or an upscale dining experience. Also, check the breadth of vegan options beyond bacon, ensuring there are enough choices to accommodate all dietary needs. Finally, transparency about sourcing and preparation can be important, especially for those prioritizing ethical or health considerations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do these restaurants serve both pork and vegan bacon on the same menu?
Most listed restaurants offer both options, either as add-ons or featured menu items, allowing guests to choose according to their preferences.
What ingredients are commonly used for vegan bacon?
Popular vegan bacon bases include tempeh, coconut, shiitake mushrooms, and seitan, often smoked or seasoned to replicate traditional bacon flavors.
Are vegan bacon options as flavorful as pork bacon?
While different from traditional bacon, many vegan bacons are crafted to deliver smoky, salty, and crispy qualities that satisfy similar cravings.
Can I find gluten-free vegan bacon options?
Some restaurants offer gluten-free vegan bacon, especially those using coconut or mushroom bases, but it’s best to check specific menu details or inquire directly.
Are these restaurants suitable for large groups with mixed diets?
Yes, many establishments on this list are designed to accommodate diverse dietary preferences, making them excellent choices for mixed groups.
Is vegan bacon healthier than traditional bacon?
Generally, vegan bacon contains less saturated fat and cholesterol, but nutritional content varies by brand and preparation method.
Final Thoughts
Finding restaurants that serve both bacon and vegan options is no longer a rare feat, thanks to growing demand for inclusive menus. Whether you’re a devoted bacon lover or exploring plant-based alternatives, the eateries listed here offer a variety of delicious choices that bridge the gap between traditional meat dishes and vegan innovation. Next time you dine out with friends or family members who have differing tastes, these spots make it easy to enjoy great food together without compromise.
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