Whether you occasionally do a Meatless Monday or you eat a strictly plant-based diet, options for casual vegetarian and vegan meals abound in the Oak Park-River Forest area. Check out these spots near campus next time you want to try something new.

  1. Munch: You can’t go wrong with lunch or dinner at Munch, where every menu item is either vegetarian or vegan. Treat yourself to a dairy-free milkshake after enjoying their salads, burritos, lasagna and more. (104 N. Marion St., Oak Park, IL)
  2. Sweetgreen: It’s a make-your-own-salad adventure! And it’s not just salads, but also grain bowls and protein plates. You can customize your own, or choose from tasty selections like the “Hummus Crunch” or “Super Green Goddess.” (1143 Lake St., Oak Park, IL)
  3. 540vegetarian.jpgKribi Coffee: Get caffeinated before a long study session with a vegan milk latte or whatever non-coffee drink suits your taste buds. Pair it with a plant-based breakfast sandwich or pastry so you’re fueled for the day. (three locations: 149 Forest Ave., Oak Park, IL; 1033 South Blvd. Oak Park, IL; 7324 Madison St. Forest Park, IL)
  4. Courageous Bakery: This bright and cheery shop has a large breakfast and lunch menu with many vegetarian items, and they are great with making substitutions in dishes that contain meat. Plus, they always have at least one vegan cupcake or pastry option for dessert. (736 Lake St., Oak Park, IL)
  5. Whole Foods: Yes, it’s a grocery store, but check out their hot bar and salad bar, which always have vegan options. Grab a container, load up as much as you want and pay by weight when you leave. (7245 Lake St., River Forest, IL)
  6. Burger Moovment: A place with “burger” in the name can’t be a good option for vegetarians, can it? Indeed it can! We’ve been told that the vegan patties and black bean burger are quite delicious here. (7512 W. North Ave., Elmwood Park, IL)

Bonus: If you live or work on campus, you probably spend a lot of time in Crossroads Cafeteria. Look for Sodexo’s “Vegetarian” and “Vegan” labels when you’re in line for food, visit their Nutrition page for info on other dietary restrictions, and look for their new Simply 3 station this fall featuring food made without gluten, peanuts/tree nuts or dairy-based milk.