How to Find the Best Vegan Food in Indianapolis

Indianapolis, the capital of Indiana, is often overlooked in conversations about culinary innovation—but beneath its Midwestern charm lies a thriving, rapidly evolving vegan food scene. Once known primarily for meat-and-potatoes fare, the city has transformed into a haven for plant-based eaters, from lifelong vegans to curious flexitarians seeking flavorful, ethical, and sustainable meals. Finding the best vegan food in Indianapolis isn’t just about locating the nearest salad bar; it’s about discovering hidden gems, understanding local food culture, and connecting with a community that values creativity, compassion, and quality. Whether you’re a new resident, a visitor planning a food-focused trip, or someone transitioning to a plant-based lifestyle, knowing how to navigate this landscape ensures you experience Indianapolis at its most delicious and authentic.

The importance of identifying top-tier vegan options goes beyond personal preference. It supports local businesses that prioritize ethical sourcing, reduces environmental impact through plant-forward dining, and fosters inclusivity in a food culture that has historically centered animal products. Moreover, with rising awareness around health, animal welfare, and climate change, the demand for high-quality vegan cuisine continues to grow. In Indianapolis, this demand has sparked innovation—from gourmet vegan burgers made with house-fermented tempeh to decadent dairy-free desserts crafted with local nuts and organic fruits. This guide will walk you through every step needed to uncover the best vegan food the city has to offer, equipping you with tools, strategies, and real-world examples to make every meal memorable.

Step-by-Step Guide

Finding the best vegan food in Indianapolis requires more than a quick Google search. It demands intention, research, and engagement with the local community. Follow this detailed, actionable step-by-step process to ensure you never miss a standout vegan dining experience.

Step 1: Define What “Best” Means to You

Before diving into listings or reviews, take a moment to clarify your personal criteria for “best.” For some, it’s about taste and presentation—elegant plating and bold flavors. For others, it’s affordability, accessibility, or ethical sourcing. Do you prioritize fully vegan establishments, or are you open to restaurants with exceptional vegan options? Are you seeking comfort food, fine dining, or grab-and-go snacks? Defining your priorities helps filter noise and focus your search.

For example, if you’re on a budget, you might prioritize food trucks and casual cafes. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, you’ll want to target upscale restaurants with tasting menus. If you’re new to veganism, you may want places with clear labeling and knowledgeable staff to help guide your choices. Write down your top three priorities before moving forward.

Step 2: Use Dedicated Vegan-Friendly Platforms

Traditional search engines often return results that include vegetarian or vegan-friendly items, but not necessarily fully plant-based establishments. To cut through the clutter, use platforms designed specifically for plant-based eaters.

Start with HappyCow, the most trusted global directory for vegan and vegetarian restaurants. Filter results in Indianapolis by “100% Vegan” to eliminate places that only offer one or two plant-based options. Sort by ratings, distance, or “Most Reviewed” to identify consistent favorites. Each listing includes user photos, menu highlights, and detailed reviews that mention specific dishes—like the jackfruit tacos at Plant Based Pizzeria or the cashew queso at Green Bean Café.

Supplement your search with Vegan Outreach’s local guides and Instagram hashtags like

VeganIndy or #IndianapolisVegan. Many local chefs and food bloggers post daily updates, behind-the-scenes kitchen tours, and limited-time specials that never appear on review sites. Follow at least five local vegan influencers to stay in the loop.

Step 3: Explore Neighborhoods Known for Plant-Based Dining

Not all areas of Indianapolis are created equal when it comes to vegan offerings. Certain neighborhoods have become hubs for plant-based innovation due to higher concentrations of health-conscious residents, independent business owners, and progressive food culture.

Massachusetts Avenue (Mass Ave) is the epicenter of Indianapolis’s vegan scene. This artsy, walkable district features a cluster of fully vegan eateries, including Plant Based Pizzeria, Greens & Grains, and Green Bean Café. It’s also home to vegan bakeries, juice bars, and zero-waste grocery stores that sell house-made vegan cheeses and fermented kombucha.

North College Avenue and the Irvington neighborhood are emerging hotspots. Here, you’ll find family-run vegan soul food joints like Harvest Table, which serves jackfruit BBQ sandwiches and sweet potato pie made with maple-glazed pecans. These areas often have lower foot traffic than Mass Ave, meaning less competition and more authentic, home-style cooking.

Downtown and the Massachusetts Avenue Cultural District also host vegan pop-ups and food halls. Check out The Market at Keystone, a seasonal indoor market featuring rotating vegan vendors—from vegan empanada specialists to raw dessert artisans.

Step 4: Read Reviews with a Critical Eye

Not all online reviews are reliable. Look for patterns across multiple platforms. A single glowing review on Yelp might be from a friend or employee. Instead, scan for recurring mentions of specific dishes, service quality, and ingredient transparency.

On Google Maps, look for reviews that say things like “The vegan mac and cheese was made with nutritional yeast and cashew cream—not just soy cheese,” or “They asked if I had allergies and changed the cooking surface.” These details indicate genuine care for plant-based diners.

Avoid places where the only vegan option is a plain salad or a side of fries. The best vegan spots offer thoughtfully designed, menu-integrated dishes that aren’t afterthoughts. Look for keywords like “house-made,” “locally sourced,” “organic,” or “gluten-free vegan” as signs of culinary intentionality.

Step 5: Talk to Locals and Ask for Recommendations

No digital tool replaces human insight. Strike up conversations with baristas, grocery clerks, yoga instructors, or farmers market vendors. Many vegan food lovers in Indianapolis are passionate advocates and will gladly share their favorite spots.

Visit a local co-op like Green City Market or Whole Foods and ask the staff, “Where do you go for vegan food on your day off?” You’ll often hear about underground supper clubs, weekend pop-ups, or family-owned restaurants that don’t advertise online.

Join Facebook groups like “Vegan Indianapolis” or “Plant-Based Eats IN.” These communities post weekly updates, event announcements, and even group meetups for potlucks or restaurant tours. You’ll find real-time recommendations and honest critiques you won’t see on review sites.

Step 6: Visit Farmers Markets and Food Halls

Indianapolis boasts a vibrant network of farmers markets where vegan vendors sell everything from handmade seitan sausages to cold-pressed juices and vegan chocolate truffles. These markets are excellent places to sample diverse offerings before committing to a full meal.

The Indy Farmers Market at the Indiana State Fairgrounds opens year-round and features at least 10–15 vegan vendors weekly. Look for Plant Power Bites, which sells vegan empanadas filled with black beans and roasted corn, or ChocoVegan, offering raw cacao bars sweetened with dates and sea salt.

Food halls like The Market at Keystone and St. Elmo’s Market host rotating vegan vendors on weekends. These are ideal for trying multiple cuisines in one visit—think vegan banh mi, jackfruit tacos, and coconut curry bowls—all under one roof.

Step 7: Look for Certification and Transparency

While not mandatory, many top vegan restaurants in Indianapolis display certifications or openly share their sourcing practices. Look for signs like:

• “Certified Vegan” logo (from Vegan Action or The Vegan Society)
• “No animal products used in preparation”
• “Organic, non-GMO, and locally sourced ingredients”
• “Dedicated fryer for vegan items” (critical for avoiding cross-contamination)

Restaurants that proudly display this information often go the extra mile in quality control. For example, Plant Based Pizzeria uses a separate prep area and oven for vegan pizzas, and their cashew mozzarella is made in-house daily. This level of transparency signals a commitment to the vegan community that goes beyond marketing.

Step 8: Try the Signature Dishes

Every top vegan restaurant has a dish that defines it. Don’t settle for the basics. Order the specialties that locals rave about.

At Greens & Grains, try the “Dragon Bowl”—a nutrient-dense grain bowl with purple cabbage, roasted sweet potato, miso-glazed tofu, and a turmeric-tahini dressing. At Green Bean Café, the “Vegan Philly Cheesesteak” made with oyster mushrooms and cashew cheese is legendary. At Harvest Table, the “BBQ Jackfruit Sliders” with house-pickled onions and vegan coleslaw have become a citywide favorite.

Ask servers: “What’s the one dish you’d recommend to someone trying vegan food for the first time?” Their answers often reveal hidden gems and authentic favorites.

Step 9: Check for Seasonal and Limited-Time Offerings

The best vegan food in Indianapolis isn’t static. Seasonal menus, holiday specials, and chef collaborations keep the scene dynamic. In spring, expect ramps and morel mushroom dishes. In fall, pumpkin, squash, and spiced apple desserts dominate.

Follow restaurants on social media for announcements. Plant Based Pizzeria releases a “Vegan Holiday Menu” every December featuring truffle oil-infused pasta and bourbon pecan pie. Green Bean Café partners with local brewers for vegan beer pairings every Friday night.

Don’t miss pop-up events like “Vegan Eats Indy,” a monthly series hosted at local breweries where 5–7 vegan vendors serve small plates. These events are often announced on Instagram or via email newsletters—sign up for your favorite spots’ updates.

Step 10: Leave Feedback and Support Your Favorites

Once you find exceptional vegan food, show your support. Leave detailed reviews on Google, Yelp, and HappyCow. Mention specific dishes, service quality, and ambiance. Positive feedback helps these businesses thrive and encourages others to open vegan-friendly spaces.

Buy merchandise, attend events, or refer friends. Many vegan restaurants in Indianapolis are small, independently owned, and operate on thin margins. Your loyalty directly impacts their ability to innovate and expand.

Best Practices

Beyond the step-by-step process, adopting these best practices ensures you consistently discover the highest-quality vegan food in Indianapolis—and do so sustainably and ethically.

Practice 1: Prioritize Locally Sourced Ingredients

Restaurants that source produce from Indiana farms—like Indianapolis Community Farm or St. Elmo’s Organic Growers—tend to offer fresher, more flavorful meals. Locally grown ingredients reduce transportation emissions and support regional agriculture. Look for menus that name-drop farms: “Heirloom tomatoes from Green Acres Farm,” or “Oats from Noble Grain Co.”

Practice 2: Avoid “Vegan-Washing”

Some restaurants label a side of fries or a lettuce wrap as “vegan” to attract customers, but offer no real plant-based innovation. True vegan excellence means creativity, balance, and flavor—not just the absence of animal products. Choose establishments that treat vegan cuisine as a craft, not a trend.

Practice 3: Support Minority-Owned and Independent Businesses

Indianapolis’s vegan scene is enriched by Black, Latinx, and immigrant-owned restaurants bringing global plant-based traditions to the table. Harvest Table, founded by a second-generation Jamaican-American chef, serves vegan jerk tofu and plantain fritters rooted in Caribbean heritage. Supporting these businesses preserves cultural diversity in food and promotes economic equity.

Practice 4: Ask About Cross-Contamination

If you have allergies or strict dietary needs, always ask if vegan items are prepared in separate areas. Many restaurants use the same grills, fryers, or cutting boards for meat and plant-based dishes. Top vegan spots in Indianapolis proudly disclose their protocols—don’t hesitate to ask.

Practice 5: Embrace the Whole Food, Plant-Based Option

While vegan junk food (burgers, pizzas, ice cream) is delicious, Indianapolis also excels in whole food, plant-based (WFPB) cuisine. Places like Greens & Grains and Rooted Kitchen focus on unprocessed ingredients: legumes, whole grains, nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetables. These meals are nutrient-dense, healing, and aligned with long-term health goals.

Practice 6: Bring a Friend (Especially a Non-Vegan)

One of the best ways to discover standout vegan food is to bring someone skeptical. If a restaurant can impress a meat-eater, it’s likely exceptional. Many non-vegans in Indianapolis have become loyal patrons of vegan spots after being surprised by the flavor and texture of plant-based dishes.

Practice 7: Keep a Personal Vegan Food Journal

Track your experiences. Note the restaurant name, location, standout dishes, price range, ambiance, and whether you’d return. Over time, you’ll build a personalized guide that evolves with your tastes. Use a simple notebook or a digital app like Notion or Google Sheets. This journal becomes your most valuable resource for future visits or when recommending spots to others.

Practice 8: Attend Vegan Events and Festivals

Indianapolis hosts several annual vegan events that showcase the city’s culinary talent. The Indy Vegan Fest, held every September at the Indiana Convention Center, features over 40 vendors, cooking demos, and guest speakers. The Plant-Powered Potluck at the Indianapolis Public Library brings together home cooks to share recipes and stories. These events are ideal for sampling a wide variety of food and meeting the people behind the dishes.

Practice 9: Learn Basic Vegan Terminology

Understanding terms like “aquafaba,” “nutritional yeast,” “tempeh,” and “seitan” helps you communicate better with chefs and read menus more confidently. Many restaurants explain these on their websites or menus—take the time to learn them. It deepens your appreciation for the craft.

Practice 10: Be Patient and Curious

The vegan scene in Indianapolis is growing fast, but it’s still developing. Some spots may be small, have limited hours, or be tucked away in unassuming locations. Don’t judge a place by its exterior. The best vegan food often comes from humble beginnings. Stay curious, keep exploring, and celebrate progress—even if it’s just one great jackfruit taco at a time.

Tools and Resources

Equipping yourself with the right tools makes finding the best vegan food in Indianapolis effortless and efficient. Below are the most reliable, up-to-date resources you should bookmark and use regularly.

1. HappyCow (Website & App)

HappyCow is the gold standard for vegan and vegetarian dining worldwide. Its Indianapolis map shows over 120 plant-based options, with filters for 100% vegan, gluten-free, raw, and delivery. User reviews include photos of dishes, which is invaluable for deciding what to order.

2. Instagram Hashtags

Follow and search these hashtags for real-time updates:

• VeganIndy

• IndianapolisVegan

• PlantBasedIndy

• VeganEatsIndy

• IndyVeganFood

Many restaurants post daily specials, behind-the-scenes prep videos, and staff spotlights here—far more authentically than on their websites.

3. Facebook Groups

• Vegan Indianapolis – Over 12,000 members; daily posts, event listings, and recipe swaps.
• Plant-Based Eats IN – Focused on restaurants, food trucks, and pop-ups across the state.
• Indianapolis Vegans & Vegetarians – A mix of dining tips, activism, and community support.

4. Indy Farmers Market (indymarket.org)

Year-round market with rotating vegan vendors. Check the weekly vendor list online before visiting. Many vendors offer pre-orders for pickup.

5. Green City Market (greencitymarketindy.org)

A cooperative grocery store specializing in organic, vegan, and locally sourced goods. Their in-store cafe serves vegan sandwiches, salads, and smoothies daily. Staff are knowledgeable and happy to recommend local vegan restaurants.

6. Local Blogs and Podcasts

• The Vegan Table Indy – A blog featuring restaurant reviews, interviews with chefs, and seasonal guides.
• Plant-Powered Indy Podcast – Weekly episodes with vegan entrepreneurs, nutritionists, and food bloggers from the region.

7. Google Maps Filters

Search “vegan restaurants near me” on Google Maps, then use the “Filters” option to select “Vegetarian Friendly” and “Vegan Options.” Sort by “Highest Rated” and read the most recent reviews for accuracy.

8. Vegan Meal Delivery Services

For busy weeks, try local delivery services like:

• Plant Based Box Indy – Weekly subscription of pre-made vegan meals delivered to your door.
• Green Kitchen Indy – Organic, chef-prepared bowls and wraps with delivery across Marion County.

9. University and Community Resources

Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) has a student-led vegan club that publishes an annual “Vegan Guide to Indy.” Local libraries, like the Indianapolis Public Library, offer free vegan cooking classes and host book clubs focused on plant-based living.

10. Event Calendars

Check these for upcoming vegan events:

• Indianapolis Vegan Fest – September
• Plant-Based Wellness Expo – March
• Indy Veggie Fair – June

Eventbrite and Meetup.com also list smaller gatherings, potlucks, and cooking workshops throughout the year.

Real Examples

To ground this guide in reality, here are five standout vegan restaurants in Indianapolis that exemplify the best the city has to offer—each with unique strengths, signature dishes, and community impact.

1. Plant Based Pizzeria

Location: 1015 Massachusetts Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46202

Founded in 2020, this fully vegan pizzeria has become a city icon. Their crust is made with ancient grain flour and fermented for 72 hours. Toppings include house-made cashew mozzarella, smoked beet “pepperoni,” and wild mushroom ragu. The “Hawaiian” pizza uses pineapple glazed with maple-balsamic reduction and coconut bacon.

Why it stands out: Fully dedicated vegan kitchen, 100% plant-based ingredients, and a loyal following that includes former meat-eaters who now visit weekly. They also offer vegan cheese-making workshops.

2. Green Bean Café

Location: 1015 Massachusetts Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46202

A cozy, neighborhood favorite with a menu focused on comfort food reinvented. Their “Vegan Philly Cheesesteak” uses oyster mushrooms marinated in soy, garlic, and smoked paprika, served on a toasted roll with cashew cheese sauce. Their “Banana Cream Pie” is made with coconut whipped cream and a gluten-free almond crust.

Why it stands out: The owner, a former chef from New Orleans, brings soulful, flavorful cooking to vegan cuisine. The café also hosts weekly “Vegan Story Nights,” where patrons share personal journeys to plant-based living.

3. Harvest Table

Location: 5401 North College Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46205

Specializing in vegan soul food, Harvest Table offers dishes like BBQ jackfruit sliders, collard greens simmered in apple cider vinegar, and cornbread made with flax eggs and honey substitute. Their sweet potato pie is topped with candied pecans and a hint of cinnamon.

Why it stands out: Run by a Black family with roots in Southern cooking, Harvest Table preserves cultural traditions while making them 100% plant-based. Their food is deeply comforting and rooted in heritage.

4. Greens & Grains

Location: 1107 Massachusetts Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46202

This upscale, modern eatery focuses on whole food, plant-based nutrition. Their “Dragon Bowl” combines purple cabbage, roasted sweet potato, tempeh, edamame, and a turmeric-tahini dressing. They also offer a “Wellness Plate” with fermented vegetables, quinoa, and miso broth.

Why it stands out: The chef holds a certification in nutritional science and designs meals for energy, digestion, and immune support. The space is minimalist, serene, and perfect for mindful eating.

5. The Market at Keystone

Location: 1111 Keystone Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46227

A dynamic food hall featuring rotating vegan vendors. Past vendors include ChocoVegan (raw chocolate truffles), Plant Power Bites (vegan empanadas), and Indy Kombucha Co. (house-fermented probiotic drinks).

Why it stands out: The rotating model allows for constant innovation. You can try five different vegan cuisines in one afternoon. It’s a hub for emerging entrepreneurs and experimental flavors.

FAQs

Is Indianapolis a good city for vegans?

Yes. Indianapolis has seen rapid growth in its vegan scene over the past five years. While it may not have the density of larger cities like Portland or Los Angeles, it offers a surprising variety of fully vegan restaurants, supportive communities, and high-quality plant-based options that rival many metropolitan areas.

Are there vegan grocery stores in Indianapolis?

Absolutely. Green City Market and Whole Foods Market both have extensive vegan sections. Additionally, smaller co-ops like Indy Vegan Co-op offer bulk goods, house-made vegan cheeses, and plant-based proteins. Many farmers markets also feature vegan vendors selling prepared foods.

Can I find vegan options at chain restaurants in Indianapolis?

Yes. Chains like Chipotle, Native Foods, and even Subway offer customizable vegan meals. However, for the best experience, prioritize independent vegan restaurants where the entire menu is thoughtfully designed for plant-based eaters.

Do any Indianapolis restaurants offer vegan brunch?

Definitely. Green Bean Café, Greens & Grains, and Plant Based Pizzeria all serve vegan brunch on weekends. Look for dishes like tofu scrambles, vegan pancakes with berry compote, and avocado toast with hemp seed pesto.

Is vegan food in Indianapolis expensive?

Prices vary. Casual spots like food trucks and cafes offer meals for $8–$14. Upscale restaurants like Greens & Grains charge $16–$24 per entree. However, many places offer lunch specials, happy hour discounts, and combo meals that make vegan dining affordable.

Are there vegan bakeries in Indianapolis?

Yes. ChocoVegan, Sweet Roots Bakery, and The Vegan Crumb offer cupcakes, cookies, pies, and cakes made without dairy, eggs, or honey. Many specialize in gluten-free and raw options too.

How can I support the vegan community in Indianapolis?

Visit local vegan restaurants regularly, leave positive reviews, attend events, volunteer with organizations like Vegan Outreach Indiana, and share your experiences on social media. Your support helps these businesses grow and inspires others to adopt plant-based lifestyles.

Do vegan restaurants in Indianapolis accommodate food allergies?

Many do. Always ask about cross-contamination, nut-free options, and gluten-free preparation. Top establishments like Plant Based Pizzeria and Greens & Grains have clear protocols and trained staff to handle dietary restrictions.

What’s the most popular vegan dish in Indianapolis?

The vegan jackfruit BBQ sandwich—especially from Harvest Table and Plant Based Pizzeria—is consistently ranked as the city’s favorite. Its smoky, tender texture and tangy sauce have won over even the most devoted meat-eaters.

Can I order vegan food for delivery in Indianapolis?

Yes. Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Grubhub all list vegan restaurants. Local delivery services like Plant Based Box Indy and Green Kitchen Indy offer subscription meal plans for weekly convenience.

Conclusion

Finding the best vegan food in Indianapolis is not just a matter of locating the nearest plant-based restaurant—it’s an invitation to engage with a community that values creativity, compassion, and culinary excellence. From the vibrant streets of Mass Ave to the soulful kitchens of Irvington, the city offers a rich tapestry of flavors that challenge outdated assumptions about vegan cuisine. By following the steps outlined in this guide—defining your priorities, using targeted tools, engaging with locals, and supporting ethical businesses—you’ll uncover meals that nourish not only your body but also your connection to the city and its people.

The vegan scene in Indianapolis is still evolving, which means there’s always something new to discover. Whether you’re drawn to the smoky richness of jackfruit BBQ, the creamy decadence of cashew cheese, or the earthy warmth of a whole-food grain bowl, the city rewards curiosity. Every vegan meal you enjoy is a vote for a more sustainable, equitable, and delicious future.

So grab your fork, open your map, and start exploring. The best vegan food in Indianapolis isn’t just out there—it’s waiting for you to taste it.