Type: Vegan-friendly
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
Price: $$

This restaurant is basically a diner with some updates. It has inset stools that are at the small counter, but also has exposed brick and an exposed ceiling, hinting at a hipster vibe. The windows were lined with plants giving it a homey feel and complimented the mint green walls.

There were 2-3 vegan options on the menu. I settled on the Tofu Sweet Potato Hash. Although it wasn’t really a hash since the sweet potatoes were cubed (as opposed to shredded), it did have great flavor. The tofu was prepared excellently: squeezed and fried up well and the steamed kale was fresh and full of flavor. It was served with really good bread which possibly could have been homemade, a side of Earth Balance butter, .and a small salad.
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The menu also included vegan pancakes and vegan tacos. In addition, they offered soy milk. Very delicious brunch overall. Be aware though that they only take cash. They have an ATM in the restaurant that has an added fee, but I would still recommend coming prepared with cash.

Type: Vegetarian
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch
Price: $$
Website: www.victorysbanner.com

Victory's Banner is breakfast and lunch spot for many Chicagoans. Their Zen-like atmosphere is welcoming and relaxing, with bright walls, colorful artwork, and plants around the restaurant.

Though their entire menu is vegetarian, they offer a completely separate vegan menu which includes a breakfast and lunch section. The breakfast section offers items such as French Toast, Tofu Scramble, and Oatmeal.  I got the Tofu Scramble for my meal with mushrooms and vegan chicken. It was delicious- flavorful and filling, especially with the vegan chicken. It came with a side of delicious hearty bread and fabulous potatoes. The only complaint I had was that the “Tofu Scramble” was not a scramble at all. In fact, the tofu was cut into cubes and fried. So while it was delicious, it shouldn’t be marketed as a tofu scramble. The lunch menu offered salads, burgers, and wraps and a daily soup. Last, they also offered soy and almond milk and had vegan lattes on the menu. I got the Chai latte with soy milk which was delicious- perfect amount of spice and richness.

If you're looking for a good brunch that offer vegan meals other than oatmeal and fruit, Victory's Banner is definitely an option.