Chicago’s Chinatown is a neighborhood filled with vibrant life and a rich history. It was officially established in 1912, but was housing Chinese-American immigrants long before that point. Today, it’s a lively neighborhood that stays true to its roots. But as with any travel plans, if you’re vegetarian or vegan, you may be wondering if visiting Chinatown is a feasible option. Vegetarian and vegan cooking has deep roots in Chinese cuisine, and you’ll notice that most restaurants you walk into will have at least a couple options that are safe. Let’s break down the best options.
1. Veggie House
In the heart of Chinatown, Veggie House is a fully vegetarian restaurant, with a majority of their menu being fully vegan. They use a digital menu where vegan options are clearly marked. It contains classic dishes made completely plant based, including Mapo Tofu, Braised Lion’s Mane Mushroom, Pad Thai Noodles. The restaurant is delicious, with a well thought out menu and no fear of cross contamination. For someone who is vegan or has allergies, this is an easy must-go.
Veggie House’s menu is available online.
2. Qing Xiang Yuan Dumplings (QXY)
Qing Xiang Yuan Dumplings is one of the most popular spots in Chinatown. Unlike Veggie House, it is not fully vegetarian, which means that there is worry of cross contamination from seafood or dairy products. However, they have several vegan options and a rotating seasonal menu that swaps in-season vegetables into their dishes. The biggest note for this restaurant is that there is always a wait. They do partake in a virtual waitlist, so you can put yourself on and then leave and enjoy the rest of the neighborhood, but you must still plan accordingly.
You may view Qing Xiang Yuan Dumplings’ menu online.
3. Mango Mango Dessert
After dinner, you may be craving a sweet treat. While most bakeries or boba shops have dairy free options, Mango Mango Dessert will be the best choice for a seamless vegan experience. They offer mango sticky rice, smoothies, shaved ice, and many more mango inspired options. And while their namesake may be for mangoes, there are options for those who do not enjoy the fruit, including classic boba flavors and hot desserts.
Mango Mango Dessert’s menu can be viewed on their website.
Tips for Visiting Chinatown
Chicago’s Chinatown is a busy neighborhood with much to see, making it a must-stop spot for tourists. This means it can get extremely crowded, especially during peak hours during the summer. When visiting, plan your visit accordingly to get the most out of your trip. Remember that almost all restaurants will have their menus listed online to view before stopping in, and don’t be afraid to ask employees questions should they arise.
