Maybe they have magic elves back in that kitchen, but whatever they’re doing works. Violet Sweet Shoppe’s chocolate chip cookies are like crack for vegans, and anyone else who tastes them — even that friend who says all vegan baked goods taste like dirt. This bakery is a victory for vegans citywide; everything they make is moist, beautiful, incredibly delicious, and 100% vegan-friendly. Violet Sweet Shoppe, you are the epitome of winning.

Hey Pettirosso, good luck keeping this “secret family recipe” on the DL because the first bite of this mac-n-cheese generally corresponds with a strong desire to torture the chef for his secrets. How is this vegan? Who knows, but it’s freaking incredible. Shawn’s Vegan Mac has that perfect crunchy on top, creamy inside vibe. It’s a little smoky, a little spicy, and a whole lot of delicious. Shawn, you’ve got some seriously magic Mac.

Asian food is an easy go-to for vegans because it traditionally uses very little dairy, includes lots of tofu options, and there is a plethora of it in our city. But here’s the thing: sometimes tofu just can't compete with meat (replacement). Luckily, In the Bowl, while technically not a vegan restaurant, has ample tofu, faux-meat, and veggie-focused dishes, so it’s easy to make everyone happy. Their spicy roasted “duck” salad is delicious, and Daffy gets to live another day.

Many things at the Wayward Café are terrific; they have incredible vegan biscuits and gravy, superb pancakes (try banana and chocolate chip), and a whipped cream that tastes just like the real thing. But the dish that inspires dreams of the Wayward Café is the Mac Daddy. Imagine two no-beef patties, house made Reuben sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions, and even the crucial middle bun layer. It’s like a Big Mac but not so scary. Realistically, it has about as much meat as an actual Big Mac so you aren’t missing much, plus it’s approximately one billion times better (if you can get it in your mouth). Also, don’t miss the $6 mimosas on tap, they are delightful.

Veggie stalwart Café Flora has a great brunch full of comfort dishes that are naturally vegan (the cornmeal waffle with strawberries and basil) or easily vegan-ized (sub tofu for eggs in their famous scrambles). And then there is the must-have (vegan) cinnamon roll, which is serious business — sticky, crunchy, nutty, and served fresh from the oven. Share it with a friend over a mimosa or bloody mary and a bowl of fruit. It’s the perfect brunch for those who lean sweet.