Charlotte, NCVegan

Charlotte's oldest vegan restaurant, open since 2012 at 3001 E. Independence Blvd. The Jalapeno Cheddar Burger, the jackfruit carnitas tacos, and the fried tofu fingers are the entry points, and none of them ask you to make allowances for what is missing. Charlotte Magazine includes it in its guide to vegetarian and vegan options.

Barry and Jennifer Horton brought an all vegan, gluten free, organic menu from California to 6414 Rea Road in Ballantyne. It is a full sit down room rather than a counter, which is still rare in this category. Charlotte Magazine includes it in its vegetarian and vegan guide.

An all vegan operation that took a permanent room at 1801 N. Graham St. in Camp North End, serving loaded nachos and fries, street tacos, and sliders to a crowd that is not necessarily vegan. It fills the space Plant Joy left behind. Charlotte Magazine includes it in its guide to vegetarian and vegan options.

Buddha bowls, vegan nachos, and dairy free lattes on a dog friendly patio at 3046 N. Davidson St. in NoDa. It works as a coffee stop in the morning and a full meal later, which is why the patio rarely empties. Charlotte Magazine includes it in its vegetarian and vegan guide.

A fully plant based burger, fries, and shake counter at 5518 South Blvd., built to satisfy the same craving a diner would. The three location North Carolina operation keeps the menu tight and the turnaround fast. Charlotte Magazine includes it in its guide to vegetarian and vegan options in Charlotte.