Introduction
Bend, Oregon, nestled in the heart of the high desert, is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, vibrant craft brewery scene, and adventurous spirit. But beyond the hiking trails and hoppy IPAs, a quieter, greener revolution is taking root: a thriving vegan food scene. While it might not be the first thing that springs to mind when you think of Central Oregon, Bend is quickly becoming a haven for plant-based eaters, offering a diverse and delicious array of options to satisfy any craving.
Veganism, at its core, is a lifestyle that seeks to exclude all forms of animal exploitation and cruelty. This translates into a plant-based diet that avoids meat, dairy, eggs, and honey, as well as an ethical commitment to avoiding products that exploit animals. Choosing a vegan lifestyle offers a multitude of benefits, from promoting better health and reducing your environmental footprint to aligning your choices with your values of compassion and kindness.
So, why Bend, Oregon? The city’s active and health-conscious population, coupled with a growing foodie culture that embraces innovation and sustainability, has created fertile ground for vegan businesses to flourish. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan veteran or simply curious about exploring the world of plant-based cuisine, Bend has something to offer. This comprehensive guide will be your roadmap to navigating the city’s vegan offerings, from dedicated vegan restaurants and cafes to vegan-friendly establishments and markets brimming with plant-based ingredients. Let’s dive in!
Vegan Restaurants in Bend
Let’s start with the powerhouses – the restaurants that have wholeheartedly embraced the vegan ethos and created menus entirely free of animal products. These establishments offer a guilt-free, delicious, and convenient way to enjoy a plant-based meal.
Active Culture
Active Culture, located on NW Galveston Avenue, is more than just a restaurant; it’s a vibrant community hub with a commitment to healthy and sustainable living. While not *exclusively* vegan, they have a robust menu with plenty of clearly labeled vegan options. The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, making it a perfect spot for a casual lunch or dinner.
Some must-try vegan dishes include the “Buddha Bowl,” a colorful and nourishing mix of grains, roasted vegetables, avocado, and a flavorful tahini dressing. They also have fantastic vegan tacos, filled with plant-based protein and all the fixings. Don’t forget to check out their smoothie menu, which features a range of vegan options packed with fruits, vegetables, and superfoods. And for dessert, they often have vegan ice cream or other treats available. Check out their website or call for up-to-date menu offerings and specials.
Fix & Repeat
Fix & Repeat is a standout that offers 100% vegan food. Located downtown, they focus on offering a variety of delicious offerings, including jackfruit tacos and nachos. Their menu rotates depending on the availability of seasonal items. They also have a selection of vegan desserts. Check out their instagram account to see when and where they are open!
Joolz
While primarily a Lebanese and Middle Eastern restaurant, Joolz in downtown Bend has a surprising number of clearly marked and delicious vegan options. The atmosphere is lively and vibrant, with colorful decor and a welcoming vibe. It is worth noting that there are only a few fully vegan options here.
Look for the “V” on the menu to identify vegan dishes. The lentil soup is a hearty and flavorful choice, and the various hummus and vegetable platters are perfect for sharing. Don’t miss the opportunity to try their falafel, which is made in-house and perfectly crispy. Be sure to specify that you want it without the tahini sauce, as that often contains dairy. The staff is generally knowledgeable about vegan options and happy to help you navigate the menu. You can find them on Minnesota Ave.
The Platypus Pub
Although not strictly vegan, The Platypus Pub has a separate vegan menu to offer. The restaurant features a wide variety of vegan and vegetarian items. There are also gluten free buns for those with dietary restrictions. If you are looking for a vegan burger, look no further.
Vegan-Friendly Restaurants (With Significant Vegan Options)
While dedicated vegan restaurants are fantastic, many restaurants in Bend have embraced the growing demand for plant-based options and offer a range of dishes that can be easily adapted to suit vegan diets. These establishments demonstrate that vegan eating can be inclusive and accessible to everyone.
900 Wall
900 Wall is a popular upscale restaurant that offers a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. While the menu is not exclusively vegan, they have a dedicated vegetarian section, many of which can be easily modified to be vegan.
Talk to your server about veganizing options. They are usually happy to accommodate dietary restrictions. They have some outstanding salads that can become vegan by removing cheese. The roasted vegetable dishes are often vegan or easily adaptable. Be sure to inquire about sauces and dressings to ensure they are dairy-free. Located on Wall Street, this is a great option if you are looking for a higher-end dining experience with vegan possibilities.
Bos Taurus
Bos Taurus is primarily known for its high-quality steaks, but surprisingly, they also offer excellent vegan options that showcase their commitment to using fresh, seasonal ingredients.
The key here is communication. Let your server know that you are vegan, and they will be happy to guide you through the menu and suggest modifications. They often have creative vegetable-based dishes that can be made vegan, such as grilled asparagus with balsamic glaze or roasted root vegetables with herbs. They also offer some great salads that can be customized to exclude cheese and dairy-based dressings. This location is also on Wall Street.
Zydeco Kitchen & Cocktails
Zydeco Kitchen & Cocktails brings a taste of New Orleans to Bend, with a menu that features Cajun and Creole-inspired dishes. While traditionally heavy on meat and seafood, Zydeco offers several vegetarian and vegan options that are bursting with flavor.
The jambalaya is often offered with tofu and can be made vegan, just be sure to double check. The black bean burger is a popular choice, and their salads are a great option to customize to your liking. The atmosphere is fun and festive, making it a great place to enjoy a lively meal with friends. You can find them on Bond Street.
Vegan Bakeries, Cafes, and Dessert Spots
No culinary adventure is complete without indulging in some sweet treats. Luckily, Bend offers a growing number of bakeries, cafes, and dessert spots that cater to vegan sweet tooths.
Sparrow Bakery
Sparrow Bakery is a Bend institution, famous for its “Ocean Rolls” and other delectable pastries. While they are not exclusively vegan, they often have a selection of vegan-friendly baked goods available.
Keep an eye out for their vegan muffins, cookies, and scones, which are often made with seasonal fruits and vegetables. They also offer plant-based milks for coffee and tea. Check their daily specials board for the most up-to-date vegan offerings. With locations on both Newport Ave and NW Galveston, there is sure to be a Sparrow Bakery near you.
Looney Bean
Looney Bean is a local coffee shop chain that always offers plant based options. Be sure to check out their pastry case to see what vegan options they have to offer that day. With several locations across town, they are an excellent option for a quick vegan treat!
Vegan-Friendly Grocery Stores and Markets
For those who prefer to cook at home, Bend offers a variety of grocery stores and markets that stock a wide range of vegan ingredients, from plant-based milks and cheeses to meat alternatives and organic produce.
Newport Avenue Market
Newport Avenue Market is a locally owned grocery store that prides itself on offering high-quality products, including a wide selection of organic and vegan items.
You’ll find everything you need to create delicious vegan meals here, from plant-based protein sources like tofu and tempeh to a variety of vegan cheeses, yogurts, and milks. They also have a fantastic selection of fresh produce, including locally grown fruits and vegetables. Look for the “vegan” labels throughout the store to easily identify plant-based products. Located, unsurprisingly, on Newport Avenue.
Trader Joe’s
Trader Joe’s is a national chain known for its unique and affordable products, including a growing selection of vegan options.
This is a great place to stock up on vegan staples like nuts, seeds, beans, grains, and plant-based protein sources. They also have a variety of vegan snacks, frozen meals, and desserts. Be sure to check out their seasonal offerings, which often include limited-edition vegan items. It is located on US-97.
Central Oregon Locavore
This non-profit market in Bend strives to support local farms, ranches, and small food businesses. It is a great option to find locally sourced and vegan options. They often feature new local vegan offerings that are sure to please! Check them out in their location on NE 3rd Street.
Tips for Eating Vegan in Bend
Navigating the vegan food scene in a new city can sometimes be challenging, but with a few helpful tips, you can easily find delicious and satisfying plant-based meals in Bend.
- Utilize Apps and Websites: Websites like HappyCow and Yelp can be invaluable resources for finding vegan restaurants and vegan-friendly establishments in Bend. These platforms allow you to search for businesses based on dietary preferences, read reviews, and view menus.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Ask: Don’t hesitate to ask restaurant staff about vegan options and modifications. Many restaurants are willing to customize dishes to accommodate dietary restrictions. Be clear about what you can and cannot eat, and inquire about ingredients and preparation methods.
- Learn Key Phrases: Familiarize yourself with a few key phrases in case there is a language barrier. Knowing how to say “I am vegan” or “Does this contain dairy/eggs/meat?” can be incredibly helpful.
- Embrace Seasonal Eating: Take advantage of the abundance of fresh produce available at farmers’ markets during the summer months. This is a great way to discover new and exciting vegan ingredients and support local farmers.
Conclusion
Bend, Oregon, is rapidly emerging as a culinary destination for plant-based eaters. From dedicated vegan restaurants that offer creative and innovative dishes to vegan-friendly establishments that are willing to accommodate dietary restrictions, the city has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re a long-time vegan or simply curious about exploring the world of plant-based eating, Bend’s vibrant food scene is sure to impress.
So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore the vegan delights of Bend, Oregon! Support local businesses, discover new flavors, and embrace the joy of plant-based eating. By making conscious food choices, you can contribute to a healthier, more sustainable, and compassionate world. The future of food is plant-based, and Bend is leading the way!
