8 Satisfying Lunch Ideas for Charleston Vegetarians
Get away from that sad desk salad, and stop by one of these Charleston restaurants for a hearty lunch sans meat. Vegetarians can find a variety of options at downtown establishments for a satisfying midday meal. Here a some of the highlights.
Not listed by rank…
1 The Park Cafe
Avocado Toast with Poached Egg: Try the creamy avocado spread over crispy, toasted whole grain toast at sunny Park Cafe. Add a poached to top things off, and you won’t find a better rendition of this dish anywhere in town.
Siam Salad and a Side of Brussels: Napa cabbage, avocado, peanuts, orange, fried shallots, fresh herbs and lots of love go into this dish. The option to add shrimp is there for you pescetarians. Add a side of Leon’s beloved fried brussels sprouts to send your meal into overdrive
Bulgogi Korean Bowl: Gnome is proving to be arguably the best vegetarian cafe in town. Some may argue about price, but if you want the highest integrity, thoughtful vegetarian/vegan meal, you come here. The bulgogi Korean bowl is a hearty mix of rice, bulgogi tofu, sesame broccoli, red cabbage, daikon, and scallions, and it’s incredible.
109 President St
Charleston, SC 29403
4 Five Loaves Cafe
Mediterranean Garden Burger and Cup of Soup: A light grain patty topped with cucumbers, tzatziki feta, artisan greens, tomatoes, and onions is a refreshing bite at Five Loaves Cafe. Paired with your choice of the soup of the day, and you can’t go wrong with this duo.
Vodka Sauce Pasta: While hip Italian cafe Monza might be known for pizzas, its signature pasta dishes are also respected around the city. Order the penne pasta drenched in creamy vodka sauce, served with melted fresh mozzarella for a truly satisfying meal.
Vegetable Plate: Hominy Grill is the king of Southern sides in this town, and for vegetarians craving hearty, delicious, food-coma-inducing veggies, look no further. In particular, the mustard greens, squash casserole, and cornbread are must-haves.
Pad See Ew: Basil has been a cornerstone of Upper King since before Upper King was cool. The restaurant does a fantastic job with Thai dish pad see ew — some of the best you’ll find in Charleston. Tofu brings some variety in texture, and Basil’s spice tray adds another level of flavor.
Veggie Burger: If you’re looking for a quick non-meat fix, the King Street king of sandwiches has got you covered. Closed for Business has arguably the best veggie burger downtown, the price is on point, and if you’re in the mood for a beer, CFB stocks almost every brewery under the sun on tap.
The most unique ghost tour in town. For a limited time, join host Kira Lee for an evening filled with sweets and screams. Experience the haunted history of Charleston like never before!
A ghost ‘tour’ for the gourmet. Join us in our elegant 19th-century dining room, for an evening filled with sinister story-telling and morbid delights that are sure to leave your taste buds tingling!
This 2.5-hour food tour explores Charleston’s Historic French Quarter and City Market, offering the tastiest of Charleston’s history and food while walking some of the oldest streets in America!