Portland, Oregon, is renowned for its vibrant food scene, which caters extensively to vegan and plant-based diets. From hearty breakfast sandwiches to decadent pastries, the city offers an impressive array of vegan breakfast options that will delight your taste buds. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best vegan breakfast spots in Portland.
Why You'll Love These Spots
Diverse Menu Items
Portland’s vegan restaurants offer a wide variety of menu items that cater to all breakfast cravings. Whether you're in the mood for a tofu scramble, fluffy pancakes, or a hearty breakfast sandwich, you'll find a spot that has it all.
Use of Local Ingredients
Many vegan spots in Portland pride themselves on using fresh, local ingredients. This not only supports the local economy but also ensures that the food is of the highest quality.
Inviting Atmospheres
These vegan breakfast spots offer a range of atmospheres, from cozy bakeries to lively diners, making them perfect for any occasion, whether you're grabbing a quick bite or enjoying a leisurely brunch with friends.
Top Vegan Breakfast Spots in Portland
1. Sweetpea Baking Company
Location: SE Portland
Why You'll Love It: As one of the original vegan spots in Portland, Sweetpea Baking Company is a beloved bakery offering a wide range of vegan pastries and breakfast items. Their cozy café is a great place to start your day. Must-Try: Tofu scramble breakfast burrito and their famous cinnamon rolls.
2. Vertical Diner & Gold Room
Location: Industrial District
Why You'll Love It: This diner brings classic American breakfast favorites to the vegan crowd. With its extensive vegan menu and full bar, Vertical Diner is perfect for a weekend brunch. Must-Try: Outlaw scramble with tempeh bacon and a side of vegan pancakes topped with fresh berries and maple syrup.
3. Ben & Esther’s Vegan Jewish Deli
Location: NE Sandy Blvd
Why You'll Love It: This unique spot brings traditional Jewish cuisine to the vegan community. Their breakfast menu is full of delightful surprises that will keep you coming back for more. Must-Try: Vegan bagel sandwiches with a variety of flavors of vegan cream cheese.
4. Hail Snail
Location: Food Cart Pods around Portland
Why You'll Love It: Known for its creative and delicious cinnamon rolls, Hail Snail is a food cart that offers vegan versions of this beloved treat. They also serve savory breakfast items that are perfect for a quick, delicious start to your day. Must-Try: Vegan cinnamon rolls and their breakfast burrito loaded with tofu scramble and vegan sausage.
5. Off The Griddle
Location: SE Portland
Why You'll Love It: Off The Griddle offers a diverse vegan menu featuring hearty breakfast options. The casual and welcoming vibe makes it a great spot for a relaxed meal. Must-Try: Vegan breakfast sandwich with tempeh bacon, and the Full Mess, a satisfying plate of tofu scramble, hash browns, and vegan sausage.
6. Next Level Burger
Location: Multiple Locations
Why You'll Love It: This plant-based burger joint also offers a fantastic breakfast menu. With locations across Portland, it’s a convenient and delicious choice for a vegan breakfast. Must-Try: Breakfast burger featuring vegan sausage, tofu egg, and vegan cheese on a fresh bun.
7. Vegan Mini Mall
Location: SE Portland
Why You'll Love It: This mini mall is a vegan paradise, hosting several vegan businesses including a bakery, grocery store, and café. It's a great spot to explore multiple vegan breakfast options in one place. Must-Try: Stop by Food Fight for some vegan snacks and Sweetpea Baking Company for a hearty breakfast.
8. Plant Based Papi
Location: Food Cart Pods
Why You'll Love It: Known for its creative and flavorful vegan dishes, Plant Based Papi offers an exciting breakfast menu that will leave you wanting more. Must-Try: Breakfast tacos with scrambled tofu and their vegan breakfast bowl.
9. Homegrown Smoker
Location: N Mississippi Ave
Why You'll Love It: This food cart is famous for its vegan BBQ, but their breakfast options are equally impressive. If you're in the mood for a hearty, smoky breakfast, this is the place to go. Must-Try: Breakfast burrito with smoked tofu and their unique take on vegan sausage.
Tips for Enjoying Vegan Breakfast in Portland
- Plan Ahead: Check out menus online before you go. Many vegan spots in Portland update their offerings seasonally.
- Visit Food Carts: Portland's food cart scene is vibrant and offers unique vegan breakfast options. Explore different pods for a diverse experience.
- Get There Early: Popular spots like Sweetpea Baking Company can get crowded, so it's best to arrive early to snag a table and enjoy your meal without a wait.
- Try Different Neighborhoods: Each neighborhood in Portland has its own vibe and selection of vegan spots. Explore places in SE Portland, the Industrial District, and NE Alberta to experience the full range of what the city has to offer.
FAQs
1. Are there gluten-free options available at these vegan spots?
Yes, many vegan breakfast spots in Portland offer gluten-free options. Back to Eden Bakery and Sweetpea Baking Company both have extensive gluten-free menus.
2. Can I find vegan options in chain restaurants in Portland?
Yes, chain restaurants like Next Level Burger have extensive vegan menus, making it easy to find plant-based options.
3. Do these vegan spots cater to other dietary restrictions?
Yes, many vegan restaurants in Portland are accommodating to various dietary restrictions. Always inform the staff of any allergies or dietary preferences.
4. Is it necessary to make reservations?
While not always necessary, making a reservation can be a good idea, especially on weekends or for larger groups, to ensure you get a table at your desired time.
5. Are these vegan breakfast spots kid-friendly?
Many vegan spots in Portland are family-friendly and offer kid-friendly menu options. Places like Vertical Diner and Sweetpea Baking Company are great for families.
6. What are some must-try vegan breakfast dishes?
Must-try dishes include the tofu scramble breakfast burrito at Sweetpea Baking Company, the breakfast burger at Next Level Burger, and the vegan cinnamon rolls at Hail Snail.
7. Can I get takeout or delivery from these vegan spots?
Most of these vegan spots offer takeout and some even provide delivery through services like DoorDash or UberEats. Check their websites or call ahead to confirm.
8. What should I do if I want to host a vegan brunch?
Consider ordering a variety of dishes from these vegan spots to cater to different tastes. You can also visit local vegan markets for fresh ingredients and prepare a homemade brunch.
9. Are there vegan dessert options available for breakfast?
Yes, many vegan spots offer delicious pastries and desserts that can be enjoyed as part of your breakfast. Back to Eden Bakery is particularly known for its vegan pastries.
10. How can I stay updated on new vegan spots and events in Portland?
Follow local vegan food bloggers, join vegan social media groups, and keep an eye on event listings to stay updated on new vegan spots and events in Portland.
Hint
Explore beyond the popular neighborhoods. Hidden gems often lie in less frequented areas, offering unique and delicious vegan breakfast options.
Top Tip
Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed dining experience. Early mornings and weekdays are usually quieter times.
Enjoy discovering the best vegan breakfast spots Portland has to offer, and savor the variety and creativity of vegan cuisine in this vibrant city!
