Vegan Cuisine for All? Yes, Here in Delco!

Delco boasts a cornucopia of cuisine, from sushi to pasta to ethnic delicacies and beyond. Many of us also love meat — we’re talking burgers, steaks and, you guessed it, cheesesteaks. But did you know that Delco is also a hot spot for plant-based and vegan cuisine? It’s true! Whether you regularly abstain from meat and dairy, you’re taking a short-term break (like during Veganuary or Meatless Monday) or you are just trying to eat more veggies, you’ll find much to celebrate in Delaware County.

 

To help you explore all the plant-based goodness in Delco, we’re sharing our list of interesting joints with ample vegetarian and/or vegan options. To our carnivorous-leaning friends we say: Keep an open mind! Modern plant-based food offers a range of exciting flavors, textures and creative proteins that will leave you wanting more.

 

Boardwalk Vegan

You don’t have to go down the shore to get America’s boardwalk favorites; they’re right here in Delco, PA. Boardwalk Vegan was created by Randy and Krissie Sumey, who embraced a vegan lifestyle after they became “sick of being overweight” and opened this gem after the 2020 pandemic shutdowns hit their events business. Now, they dream up fries, pizza, burgers, wings, ice cream — you name it! — all 100-percent plant-based. Sample the Twister with house-made “wiz,” seasoned sauteed seitan steak meat, mushroom and onion blend and American “cheez” on a South Philly Carangi Bakery long roll. Ask about gluten-free options — especially the desserts!

28 N. Manoa Rd., Havertown; (484)-453-8798.

 

Q&K Juice Solutions

Not far from Boardwalk Vegan (just down West Chester Pike), tucked into an unassuming row of shops, find Q&K Juice Solutions. This independent, Black-owned juice bar is a plant-based paradise, offering a beautifully colorful array of juices and smoothies to help you achieve your nutrition goals. Everything on the menu is made fresh; try a green juice, a tropical smoothie (with sea moss if you’re feeling brave), an immunity shot or an açaí bowl. On the savory side, there are vegan breakfast sandwiches made with plant-based eggs and Beyond Sausage, avocado toast and veggies burgers with all sorts of plant-based toppings.

120 West Chester Pike Suite A, Havertown; (484) 454-3598.

 

Chef Reeky’s Cafe and Juice Bar

Need comfort food? Did you know you can get vegan comfort food? This is a must-try! Chef Reeky prides himself on using natural ingredients and local products to create plant-based dishes that vegans and non-vegans will love. This casual spot’s menu is split into vegan- and non-vegan sections, which means that you can get plant-based versions of all the dishes you crave: mozzarella sticks, seitan wings, “chicken” and waffles, hoagies, cheesesteaks, mac-and-cheese and so much more! For a real treat, try Thee Mushroom Cheezesteak, made with locally sourced mushrooms from Kennett Square, vegan wiz, fried onions, peppers, green Tabasco aioli and truffle oil, all piled high on a Tuscan roll.

604 Fairview Rd., Woodlyn; (215) 921-9915.

 

The Happy Mixer

This charming gluten-free bakery offers many vegan options, making it a great stop for anyone with multiple food sensitivities or dietary restrictions. If you thought giving up animal products meant no more decadent sweet treats, you’re in for a surprise! Along with an amazing menu of gluten-free delights, The Happy Mixer makes vegan cakes and cupcakes, vegan muffins (the carrot cake with cream cheese frosting is next-level), vegan fudge brownies, vegan sandwich cookies, vegan cinnamon rolls and more! You’re welcome to order ahead or shop in its brick-and-mortar bakery.

103 E. Swedesford Rd., Wayne; (484) 580-6680.

 

Nooddi Thai Chef 

We love how everything that can be made vegan or vegetarian at this cozy Thai spot is clearly marked with a “V” on the menu. You can’t go wrong with the Tom Yum (hot-and-sour) soup with tofu, Som Tam (fresh cabbage salad with peanuts and lime dressing), kimchi dumplings, or one of the many entrees, like stir-fries, curries and fried rice, packed with veggies and tofu.

42 E. State St., Media; (610) 892-8710; 364 Wilmington West Chester Pike, Glen Mills; (610) 361-8086.

 

Kings and Queens Liberian Cuisine

The motto here is “Life is too short for average food.” Created by native Liberian, Sammed Okyne, this spot offers not-the-usual African-inspired dishes, including a vegan section of the menu. Choose from vegetable samosas, potato and greens stew, jollof rice, and much more!

107 Fairfield Ave., Upper Darby, (484) 466-3359.

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Want to know more about everything Delco? We’re more than just your source for good eats — we’re your source for where to stay, what to do and more in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. We’re Visit Delco, PA, and we’ve got you covered from Philly to the Brandywine. Find us at 1501 N. Providence Rd., Media, PA, 19063; (610) 565-3679 or online.

— Emily Kovach 

 

Featured photo: Pexels