If you are on a search for some vegan alternatives to food you love, these vegan delis across the United States are redefining the way we think about deli sandwiches. From innovative plant-based meat alternatives to fresh, colorful toppings, these vegan delis are putting a whole new spin on your favorite sandwiches.
Here Are the Best Vegan Delis in the United States
10. The Deli Llama – Seattle, WA
The Deli Llama is a vegan deli with many options on the menu to choose from, so you can create endless combinations. The quality of the ingredients is top-notch, from the meat and produce to the bread, which makes every bite a delight.
The Deli Llama also has multiple options for gluten-free bread so that people with gluten intolerance can now enjoy a delicious sandwich without being concerned about any gluten-related issues.
The staff at The Deli Llama is very friendly, which only adds to the overall experience of dining there. Plus, the sandwiches are perfect for any office lunch, as they are both basic and yummy, with fresh ingredients that you can taste with every bite.
What’s more, the bread is fresh and fluffy. And the fresh avocado is a welcome addition to the sandwiches, with no nasty chemical aftertaste, as The Deli Llama uses real avocados instead of store-bought guacamole.
9. Mort & Betty’s – Los Angeles, CA
Mort & Betty’s is a one-of-a-kind plant-based deli located in the Arts District of Los Angeles, run by Chef Megan Tucker. This deli is dedicated to providing vegetable-based alternatives to traditional deli meats, without any gluten-based substitutes like seitan or isolated protein products.
Their commitment to using organic and locally sourced ingredients is evident in their use of flours from Central Milling, a California-based flour company, and heritage grains from the Tehachapi Grain Project, grown and milled in the high desert north of Los Angeles.
Although some of their baked goods contain gluten, Mort & Betty’s offers a variety of gluten-free options to satisfy their customers’ dietary needs. One of their most popular menu items is the smoked carrot lox, made from organic farmer’s market carrots, kelp, sunflower and flaxseed oils, apple cider vinegar, and sea salt. This lox is oak smoked for a traditional Nova flavor without liquid smoke, making it the perfect topping for bagels, avocado toast, latkes, or any recipe for smoked salmon or lox.
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8. Alice & Friends’ Vegan Kitchen – Chicago, IL
Alice & Friends’ Vegan Kitchen is another good option that caters to the taste buds of plant-based foodies. The slightly above-average prices are a small price to pay for the divine culinary experience that awaits you.
Their menu is vast and varied, and each dish is prepared with love and care. The hardest part is deciding what to order, but every dish is exquisite. The whitefish salad is a standout dish, and the bagels are a must-try for any bagel lover.
The service is impeccable, and the staff is accommodating, whether you are dining in or taking out. So if you are in the mood for some sumptuous vegan cuisine, make your way to Alice & Friends’ Vegan Kitchen.
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7. Ploughman’s Deli & Café – Houston, TX
Houston is known for different varieties of food, including barbecue, but vegans can rejoice at Ploughman’s Deli & Cafe. The sandwiches here are an experience in themselves. The meatball sub and chicken salad croissant sandwich are among the best you will taste.
But what makes Ploughman’s good is their creativity in vegan offerings. Who would have thought that vegan Reuben could be so perfect and satisfying? It is not your typical sandwich shop, and that is what makes it so special.
Not only are the sandwiches delicious and filling, but they won’t break the bank. And if you are not a big eater, these sandwiches are so big that you can save half for later. Don’t skip the desserts, though. From the chocolate chip cookie to the lemon bar, every bite is heaven. Moreover, the ambiance is so good for a relaxing lunch or brunch that you will want to visit it again.
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6. Healthyish Republic – San Francisco, CA
Healthyish Republic – where nutritious meets delicious! If you are after a place that caters to different dietary needs, head out to Healthyish Republic. They have everything from keto to paleo, vegan to gluten-free, and all the yummy flavors.
One dish that will make you a fan of this place is their Keto Bun Burger. If you are not a burger fan, then don’t fret! They have got plenty of other options. The Mediterranean Chicken Wrap, Korean Beef Bowl, and Paleo Shrimp Zoodles are just some of the many flavorful dishes that will make your mouth water.
And if you want to quench your thirst without sugar, Healthyish Republic has a solution. They use monk fruit as the sweetener for their drinks, so you can sip a refreshing beverage without worrying about the calories.
But what sets this place apart from the rest is the service. Their attentive staff is always on hand to help you and ensure you are enjoying your meal. You will feel like royalty at Healthyish Republic, and they will not disappoint.
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5. The Butcher’s Son – Los Angeles, CA
The Butcher’s Son may not be a traditional sit-down deli, but that does not stop it from serving up some seriously delicious food. Instead, customers can order online through a food delivery app and pick up their food from one of the lockers. However, if you prefer to order on-site, a kiosk is available.
One item you definitely should not miss is the BLAT sandwich – a bacon, lettuce, avocado, and tomato-fried chicken sandwich. It is a flavor explosion that is sure to please your taste buds. The chicken is crispy, and the bacon adds that perfect touch of smoky goodness. The avocado and vegan mayo make it delightfully creamy, while the fresh lettuce, tomato, and bread balance out the rich flavors. This sandwich is big enough to be split into two meals. Customers also rave about the smoked pastrami, which is said to be out of this world.
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4. Ben & Esther’s Vegan Jewish Deli – San Diego, CA
Ben & Esther’s Vegan Jewish Deli is the place that has got it all! You will find all the classic deli staples here, like latkes and matzo ball soup, and innovative dishes like the cheddar, egg, and sausage bagel sandwich.
Do yourself a favor and try their vegan lox cream cheese, as it is so convincing you will have to do a double-take! And for something sweet, you cannot go wrong with their perfectly balanced cinnamon buns. Whereas, for something more savory, take advantage of their Turkish pastry basket and menemen, which are downright delicious.
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3. Seitan’s Helper – New York, NY
Seitan’s Helper is a vegan deli that helps meat lovers switch without sacrificing flavor. Their name is a play on words that only Vegans will understand and appreciate!
Their Triple Threat sandwich is a meaty masterpiece with vegan pepperoni, salami, and mortadella that will have you forgetting it is vegan. The sandwich is also topped with vegan cheddar, peppers, red onions, greens, mayo, and vinaigrette. You would not be able to resist the explosion of flavors in each bite.
Don’t be surprised if you forget to snap a photo because you are too busy chowing down. Their menu is also impressively diverse, so you can try something new each time you visit. Seitan’s Helper will have you wondering why you doubted the power of plant-based meats. Give them a try, and thank us later.
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2. Maciel’s Plant-Based Butcher & Deli – Los Angeles, CA
Maciel’s Plant-Based Butcher & Deli is a perfect spot for vegans who love a good deli sandwich. The deli offers an impressive variety of vegan meats, cheeses, and sandwiches that have won the hearts of many customers. The casual atmosphere and quick service make it an ideal spot for a lunch break or takeout.
The Reuben and Tuna sandwiches are among the favorites on the menu. According to customers, the Reuben sandwich is exceptional, even for those who are used to eating real pastrami. The well-blended and super tasty ingredients, including the good Jewish rye bread, make this sandwich a must-order. The Tuna sandwich is also delicious.
Besides the sandwiches, the deli also offers vegan cheeses and meats that customers can enjoy later at home. The Flores sandwich, though a bit bread-forward on a ciabatta, is still tasty, with a smoky flavor that makes it work.
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1. Sam & Gertie’s – Chicago, IL
Sam & Gertie’s is an absolute gem that should not be missed when discussing the best vegan delis in the United States. While the prices may be a tad higher than average, the taste of the food is worth every penny. As soon as you step in, you can feel the love that the owners pour into every dish they make.
With such a fantastic variety of menu options, it can be challenging to decide what to order, but no worries. Anything you choose is bound to be amazing. Whether you are craving a mouthwatering turkey sandwich or an egg bagel sandwich, or even a sumptuous whitefish salad, Sam & Gertie’s would not disappoint.
Beyond the fantastic food, the warm and welcoming atmosphere that the owners create is truly something special. The owners work tirelessly to ensure every customer feels comfortable, and it is hard not to leave without a smile. So, if you want an unforgettable meal and a cozy ambiance, add Sam & Gertie’s to your list of must-visit vegan eateries.
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Trying NYC’s New Vegan Italian Deli!
I had a great time visiting Galioto’s, a vegan old-school Italian Deli. My friend Joshua met up to try some other vegan food as well and show off some of his vegan shoes.
Summary
It is heartening to see so many chefs and entrepreneurs embracing the power of plant-based cuisine, and it is a lifestyle that many are continuing to adopt.
From flavorful creations by Seitan’s Helper to the healthy and nutritional veggie sandwiches at Healthyish Republic, there is a wealth of options for those looking to satisfy their cravings without sacrificing flavor.
So next time you are in the mood for a sandwich with a twist, consider giving one of these standout options a try.
But what if you have limited options available near where you live? Well, there is a solution to that as well. Check out these Jewish and Italian United States Delis That Ship Nationwide.
My name is Jay and I started this website to share my love of Deli Food. I am Jewish with Italian ancestry and grandparents who emigrated to the US from Poland, Russia and Turkey. This website is my celebration of the delicious flavors of international deli culture. Please feel free to send me your suggestions and feedback through the contact form.
