Here are my top recommendations for vegan food in Charlottesville! I’ve eaten at every single one of these places. These are all walking distance from main campus (*cough* grounds) or can be easily reached by the Free Trolley. They are also mostly casual, <$15.
1. Pearl Island Café
(434) 466-0092 | 233 4th Street NW. Charlottesville, VA 22903
Although Pearl Island serves mostly catering, they also have a small café that serves delicious Caribbean fare. Each platter comes with a balanced variety of sides, including pikliz (coleslaw), fried plantains, and kale salad, plus excellent entrées such as curry tofu and sous shu cauliflower. Unfortunately, they are currently only open for limited hours during the week (and carry-out only), but definitely worth stopping by.
2. Vu Noodles
(434) 465-1267 | 111 East Water St. Charlottesville, Virginia 22902
A hole-in-the-wall restaurant located on the edge of the downtown mall, Vu Noodles features a small selection of vegan Vietnamese classics. My favorite is the tofu caramelized onion noodles (pictured on the right). They close at 3pm, so check them out for lunch.
3. Bodo’s Bagels
(434) 293-6021 | 1609 University Ave. (UVA “Corner”)
(434) 293-5224 | 505 Preston Ave. (Downtown)
(434) 977-9598 | 1418 Emmet St. (Rt. 29)
Bodo’s is a Charlottesville classic for a reason. With three convenient locations, they serve NY-style water bagels, made fresh daily. Their bagel sandwiches feature a variety of vegan and non-vegan fillings. My favorite is the sesame bagel with hummus, lettuce, tomato, and NoBull (a locally made lentil-based veggie patty).
4. Roots Natural Kitchen
(434) 529-6229 | 1329 Main Street West, Charlottesville, Virginia 22903
Roots is located on the Corner and offers hearty salads and grain bowls. Started by UVA graduates less than a decade ago, Roots has exploded in popularity and now has locations all over the country. “The Southern” (sans cheddar) has saved me during many a late night cram sesh. Bonus: kids eat free.
5. Got Dumplings
(434) 244-3040 | 1395 W Main St. Charlottesville, VA 22903
Another popular restaurant on the Corner, Got Dumplings is known for (you guessed it) their delicious dumplings. Pair their tofu dumplings with rice or seaweed salad for a filling combo. If you’re thirsty, don’t forget to grab a bubble tea.
6. Otto Turkish Street Food
(434)-328-8786 | 111 W Water St, Charlottesville , VA 22902
Otto opened up on the Downtown Mall in the midst of the pandemic and fortunately stuck around. They offer authentic Turkish food and signature döner kebab. But hey, I’m just here for the falafel. Top your sandwich / wrap / bowl with their specialty rosemary fries and/or fried eggplant.
7. Iron Paffles & Coffee
(434) 466-0092 | 233 4th Street NW. Charlottesville, VA 22903
What’s a paffle? Simple. Puff pastry baked in a waffle iron. Iron Paffles offers a plethora of vegan / gluten-free savory and sweet options. Toppings include fruit, veggies, plant-based proteins, and spreads. Choose your own adventure.
8. Take it Away Sandwich Shop
(434) 295-1899 | Corner, 115 Elliewood Ave | Dairy Market, 946 Grady Ave, Charlottesville, Virginia 22903
Another Charlottesville staple, Take It Away has two locations – one on the Corner and one at the Dairy Market. Build your own sandwich with hummus, veggies, lentils, and more! Bonus: snag a bag of bread ends for less than a dollar.
9. Botanical Fare
(434) 217-4496 | 421 E Main St, Charlottesville, VA 22902
Botanical is a 100% plant-based restaurant located in the Downtown Mall. In addition to classic staples, they offer fun cocktails and a seasonal menu that changes every few months. Although the food is mediocre, they make up for it with their convenience and concept.
10. Bang!
(434) 984-2264 | 213 2nd Street Southwest, Charlottesville VA, 22902
This one is on the pricier side but makes a great spot for the occasion. Located by the Downtown Mall, Bang! offers Asian fusion tapas. From the flash fried brussels to curried kale and potato dumplings, they have a variety of tasty vegan / vegetarian / gluten-free offerings.
Of course, this is just a fraction of the plant-based options in Charlottesville. What did I miss? Let me know in the comments!