Guide to Vegetarian and Vegan Dining in Greater Milwaukee

Milwaukee families seeking healthy dining and plant-based options have never had it better. From fully vegan comfort food joints with arcade games to upscale farm-to-table experiences, the greater Milwaukee area now boasts more than 40 vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants spanning every neighborhood, suburb, and cuisine type imaginable. Whether your household is fully plant-based or you're navigating mixed dietary preferences at the family dinner table, this comprehensive guide covers every corner of the metro area to help you find your next great meal.

The Milwaukee vegan scene has matured significantly, with Black-owned vegan comfort food spots like Twisted Plants now operating multiple locations, Wisconsin's first certified green vegetarian restaurant Café Manna earning national recognition, and unique concepts like Dead Bird Brewing—the state's only all-vegan arcade brewery—creating entirely new dining experiences.

Milwaukee's East Side and Downtown

The urban core offers the greatest concentration of dedicated vegan establishments, making it the natural starting point for any plant-based dining adventure.

Twisted Plants — Brady Street

1233 E. Brady Street, Milwaukee, WI 53202 Phone: (414) 837-3038 | Website: twistedplants.com

This 100% vegan Black-owned restaurant has become Milwaukee's go-to destination for plant-based comfort food since expanding from its original food truck. The menu features movie-themed burgers built on Beyond Meat patties with names like "Up in Smoke" and "Superbad," plus vegan mozzarella sticks, chick'n nuggets, and creamy milkshakes. The casual counter-service format makes ordering easy with kids, and the comfort food menu appeals to even the pickiest eaters. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 11am–10pm (closed Sunday and Monday). Price range: $$

Strange Town

2101 N. Prospect Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53202 Phone: (414) 885-0404 | Website: strangetownmke.com

For a more refined 100% vegan experience, this woman-owned farm-to-table restaurant sources seasonal ingredients from small Wisconsin farms. The rotating menu features shareable small plates like curried sweet potato samosas and mushroom tartine with tofu ricotta—all made from whole foods rather than processed meat substitutes. Strange Town accommodates nut-free, gluten-free, and soy-free needs with advance notice. The intimate setting works well for families who appreciate a quieter atmosphere. Open Wednesday through Saturday, 5pm–9pm. Price range: $$$

Dead Bird Brewing

1726 Dr. William Finlayson Street, Milwaukee, WI 53212 Phone: (414) 930-0707 | Website: deadbirdbrewing.com

Wisconsin's only all-vegan brewery pairs 100% plant-based food with craft vegan beer and over 50 arcade games, making it arguably the most family-friendly vegan destination in the city. Kids can play pinball and classic games while parents enjoy house-brewed beers, and everyone shares Neapolitan-style vegan pizzas, loaded nachos, and Impossible meat tacos. Free popcorn and house-made sodas round out the experience. The outdoor patio welcomes dogs. Open Thursday through Friday 3pm–9pm, Saturday noon–9pm, and Sunday noon–6pm. Price range: $$

Beerline Cafe

2076 N. Commerce Street, Milwaukee, WI 53212 Website: beerlinecafe.com

This 100% vegetarian breakfast and brunch spot features a stunning 200-foot living wall of plants and a menu where nearly everything can be made vegan. Standouts include the Hashbrown Benny with baked tofu "ham," Spartichoke crepes with vegan smoked gouda, and the Ethiopian Lentil Wrap. The bright, spacious dining room uses reclaimed materials and eco-friendly design throughout. Counter service keeps things casual for families. Open Wednesday through Saturday 9am–3pm, Sunday 8am–3pm, Monday 9am–3pm (closed Tuesday). Price range: $$

Comet Cafe

1947 N. Farwell Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53202 Phone: (414) 509-6028 | Website: thecometcafe.com

Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, this Lower East Side comfort food spot offers extensive vegan options including a vegan "Compact Turkey Dinner" with plant-based turkey and sage stuffing, kasha bowls with sweet potatoes and avocado, and vegan biscuits and gravy. Breakfast is served until 3pm daily, and the casual diner atmosphere with booth seating works well for families. Desserts come from sister bakery HoneyPie. Open daily 9am–9pm with kitchen service until midnight. Price range: $$

Café Corazón — Riverwest

3129 N. Bremen Street, Milwaukee, WI 53212 Phone: (414) 810-3941 | Website: corazonmilwaukee.com

This farm-to-table Mexican restaurant offers soy chorizo, herbed tofu, and cremini mushrooms as vegan protein options throughout the menu. All beans and rice are vegan, and a dedicated vegan menu section makes ordering straightforward. "Vegan Thursdays" feature $1 off all vegan plates. The colorful, festive décor with cultural artifacts creates an engaging atmosphere for kids, and the restaurant is noted as "good for kids" on review sites. Open Monday through Thursday 11am–8pm, Friday 11am–9pm, Saturday 10am–9pm, Sunday 10am–8pm. Price range: $$

The Green Kitchen — Milwaukee Public Market

400 N. Water Street, Milwaukee, WI 53202 (Historic Third Ward) Phone: (414) 553-7110 | Website: greenkitchenmke.com

Located inside the Milwaukee Public Market, this quick-service counter offers tempeh wraps, fresh-squeezed juices, custom salads, and smoothies. The market setting provides a fun browsing experience for families, and the healthy focus makes it easy to find kid-friendly options. Hours follow Public Market operations (typically 10am–8pm Monday–Saturday, 10am–6pm Sunday). Price range: $

Screaming Tuna Sushi & Asian Bistro

106 W. Seeboth Street, Milwaukee, WI 53204 Phone: (414) 763-1637 | Website: screamingtuna.com

Voted Milwaukee's #1 sushi restaurant multiple years running, this upscale spot offers dedicated vegetarian sushi rolls like the Mean Green (shiitake, shishito pepper, jalapeño, avocado, garlic) and mango rolls, plus vegan rolls on soy wrap. The floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Milwaukee River create stunning skyline views, and the riverside patio welcomes pets. Families frequently visit, though calling ahead for highchairs is recommended. Open Monday through Thursday 4:30pm–10pm, Friday and Saturday 4:30pm–11pm, Sunday 4:30pm–10pm. Price range: $$$

Bay View and Walker's Point

Milwaukee's trendiest neighborhoods deliver a diverse mix of casual eateries and creative small-plates dining.

Honeypie Cafe

2569 S. Kinnickinnic Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53207 Phone: (414) 489-7437 | Website: honeypiecafe.com

This beloved Bay View institution serves Midwestern comfort food with vegan options including Beyond Meat burgers, pulled jackfruit hoagies, and rotating vegan pies and cupcakes. Everything is made from scratch using Wisconsin-sourced ingredients. The cozy diner atmosphere features a beautiful back patio, and breakfast is served all day. Gender-neutral restrooms are available. No reservations needed. Open daily 9am–9pm. Price range: $$

Classic Slice

2797 S. Kinnickinnic Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53207 Phone: (414) 238-2406 | Website: classicslice.com

New York-style pizza meets serious vegan commitment at this Bay View pizzeria. House-made soy cheese, Daiya vegan cheese, vegan sausage, and vegan dough enable completely plant-based pizzas, while a dedicated "Getting All Vegan" menu section highlights options like the MKE Vegan with harissa. Vegan breadsticks and coconut or peanut butter cupcakes satisfy dessert cravings. Giant slices are perfect for sharing, and gluten-free crusts are available. Open Monday through Thursday 11am–10pm, Friday and Saturday 11am–midnight, Sunday 11am–10pm. Price range: $–$$

Odd Duck

939 S. 2nd Street, Milwaukee, WI 53204 (Walker's Point) Phone: (414) 763-5881 | Website: oddduckrestaurant.com

This globally-inspired small plates restaurant changes its menu daily based on local ingredient availability, but vegetarian and vegan options always feature prominently. The sharable format works perfectly for families to try multiple dishes, and happy hour (Tuesday through Saturday 3pm–6pm) offers accessible pricing. The restaurant even owns its own farm, Farm Happy, which hosts family-friendly events with tours and kids' activities. Open Tuesday through Saturday 3pm–midnight (kitchen closes at 10pm). Price range: $$$

Lulu Cafe and Bar

2265 S. Howell Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53207 Phone: (414) 294-5858 | Website: lulubayview.com

A three-time Milwaukee winner for best sandwiches, this eclectic neighborhood spot offers free tofu substitution for any protein on the menu. The Mid-East Falafel Pita with tabbouleh and feta-yogurt sauce is a standout vegetarian option, alongside hummus plates and portabella sandwiches. The funky, casual atmosphere has made it a Bay View staple since 2001. Open Monday through Thursday 11am–9pm, Friday and Saturday 11am–10pm. Price range: $–$$

Bombay Sweets

3401 S. 13th Street, Milwaukee, WI 53215 (South Side) Phone: (414) 383-3553 | Website: bombaysweetsmilwaukee.com

This 100% vegetarian Indian restaurant has served Milwaukee since 1999, offering over 50 menu items with many vegan options. Samosas cost under $1 each, making it extraordinarily budget-friendly for families. South Indian specialties include dosas, uttapam, and authentic Bengali sweets, plus fresh-made breads, paneer dishes, and sugar cane juice. Counter-service keeps ordering simple with kids. Open daily 10am–8pm. Price range: $

North Shore Communities

The family-friendly suburbs north of Milwaukee proper offer everything from 100% vegan cafes to Belgian brewpub fare with dedicated kids' menus.

Love Cafe — Shorewood

3801 N. Oakland Avenue, Shorewood, WI 53211 Phone: (414) 326-5738 | Website: lovecafemke.com

This 100% vegetarian/vegan wellness cafe uniquely combines a coffee shop with a yoga studio, creating a welcoming holistic space where families can refuel after morning yoga classes (held daily 7am–9am). The chef-led menu features jackfruit tamales (both vegan and gluten-free), breakfast burritos with vegan options, veggie burgers, and colorful smoothies alongside specialty wellness drinks like ceremonial cacao beverages and Ayurvedic elixirs. The accessible pricing ranges from $3 Americanos to $15 specialty drinks, ensuring everyone feels welcome. Owner Kaleigh Atkinson created this inclusive space to make wellness and plant-based dining approachable without pretension—the cozy atmosphere with hanging plants, high ceilings, and beautiful art provides a calming setting. The cafe also offers scholarships for individuals in recovery and hosts private events. Open daily 9am–2pm (Wednesday evenings 5pm–9pm also available). Price range: $

Urban Beets Cafe & Juicery — Brown Deer

5091 W. Brown Deer Road, Brown Deer, WI 53223 Phone: (414) 206-4899 | Website: urbanbeetscafe.com

This 100% vegan cafe operates from a creatively converted former car wash with bright, airy interiors. The menu features housemade plant-based burgers (beet, black bean, chia, flax), bean-based "sausage" patties, and fresh-pressed juices made to order. The vegan Friday Fish Fry uses breaded fried heart of palm for a Wisconsin tradition without the fish. A dedicated kids' menu makes family dining simple. Gluten-friendly options are available throughout. Open Monday through Friday 6:30am–7pm, Saturday and Sunday 8am–5pm. Price range: $$

Forage Kitchen — Whitefish Bay

103 E. Silver Spring Drive, Whitefish Bay, WI 53217 Phone: (414) 212-8360 | Website: eatforage.com

This health-focused fast-casual spot makes vegetarian and vegan dining easy with build-your-own grain bowls, extensive salad options, and clear menu labeling. Vegan protein options include lentil meatballs, and housemade dressings accommodate dietary restrictions. High chairs are available, and the quick-service format works well for families on the go. Ample parking with dedicated pickup spots adds convenience. Open daily 10:30am–9pm. Price range: $–$$

Blooming Lotus Bakery — Shorewood

3948 N. Maryland Avenue, Shorewood, WI 53211 Phone: (414) 800-5030 | Website: blbmke.com

This 100% vegan gourmet bakery goes beyond plant-based: the entire kitchen is grain-free, dairy-free, egg-free, soy-free, peanut-free, and cane sugar-free—making it ideal for families managing multiple food allergies. High-protein, high-fiber treats use nut and seed flours, and the Kosher-certified kitchen offers Tiramisu Bars, Turtle Brownies, and custom birthday cakes. Perfect for grabbing treats with kids or ordering celebration cakes. Open Thursday through Sunday 9am–1pm. Price range: $$

Cloud Red — Shorewood

4488 N. Oakland Avenue, Shorewood, WI 53211 Phone: (414) 231-9660 | Website: cloudredmke.com

This globally-inspired neighborhood gastropub draws on Holiday Folk Fair traditions for a rotating chalkboard menu featuring dishes like the Vegetarian Bhel Bowl (Indian-inspired fan favorite), Buffalo Cauliflower, Tofu Bánh Mì, and tempeh tacos. Board games are available, creating a laid-back atmosphere for families. Both front sidewalk and back patio seating expand warm-weather options. Zero-proof cocktails available. Open Tuesday through Thursday 4pm–9pm, Friday and Saturday 2pm–9pm. Price range: $$

Curry & Momo Himalayan Restaurant — Glendale

6969 N. Port Washington Road, Suite B120, Glendale, WI 53217 Phone: (414) 446-5499 | Website: curryandmomohouse.com

This family-owned Nepali-Indian restaurant features numerous vegan and vegetarian dishes clearly marked on the menu, including traditional vegetable momos (dumplings), Chana Masala, Saag, and Tofu-Aaloo. Many items are marked "Vegan Friendly and Gluten Free," and spice levels can be customized for children. The welcoming atmosphere and authentic home-style cooking create a cultural education alongside dinner. Open Tuesday through Friday 11am–9pm, Saturday and Sunday noon–9pm. Price range: $$

Café Corazón — Brown Deer

4102 W. Bradley Road, Brown Deer, WI 53209 Phone: (920) 932-3062 | Website: corazonmilwaukee.com

The North Shore location of this beloved Mexican mini-chain offers the same farm-to-table approach with soy chorizo available throughout the menu. Every dish offers vegetarian and vegan protein substitutions, and the casual festive atmosphere includes outdoor patio seating and high chairs. Happy hour runs 3pm–6pm with specials. Open Monday through Thursday 11am–8pm, Friday and Saturday 11am–9pm, Sunday 11am–8pm. Price range: $$

Three Lions Pub — Shorewood

4515 N. Oakland Avenue, Shorewood, WI 53211 Phone: (414) 763-6992 | Website: threelionspub.com

This British-style pub offers substantial vegetarian options including Gardner's Pie (a vegetarian shepherd's pie with wild rice), the Harvest Bowl with brown rice, quinoa, and grilled vegetables, and the Brussels Sprouts Caesar appetizer. Incredible Foods vegan burger patties are available as a substitute for $2.50. The welcoming "living room" atmosphere makes it great for families watching European soccer, and weekend brunch adds more options. Open Monday through Thursday 11am–midnight, Friday 11am–1am, Saturday 9am–1am, Sunday 9am–midnight. Price range: $$

Crave Cafe — Shorewood

3592 N. Oakland Avenue, Shorewood, WI 53211 Phone: (414) 204-8778 | Website: cravecafe.carry-out.com

Budget-conscious families will appreciate this casual burger spot's $6 Shroom Burger with grilled portobello, cheddar, caramelized onions, arugula, and garlic aioli. Vegetarian salads round out the options. High chairs are available, and the quick counter service, small patio, and affordable pricing make it ideal for casual family outings. Open Tuesday through Sunday 11:30am–9pm. Price range: $

Western Suburbs

From Wauwatosa to Waukesha, the western suburbs deliver Wisconsin's premier vegetarian fine dining alongside diverse international cuisines.

Café Manna — Brookfield

3815 N. Brookfield Road, Brookfield, WI 53045 Phone: (262) 790-2340 | Website: cafemanna.com

Wisconsin's first 100% vegetarian restaurant also became the state's first 4-Star Certified Green Restaurant, earning OpenTable "Diners' Choice" awards and "Best of Milwaukee" recognition for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dining. The menu changes bi-weekly with seasonal specials alongside favorites like Thai peanut cauliflower, grain bowls, and raw nachos. All items are made from scratch with locally-sourced, organic ingredients. A kids' menu is available, and the restaurant accommodates birthday celebrations with cupcakes. Reservations recommended for larger groups. Open Tuesday through Saturday 11am–8pm. Price range: $$–$$$

Taste of India — Brookfield

17115 W. Bluemound Road, Suite D1, Brookfield, WI 53005 Phone: (262) 796-8200 | Website: tasteofindiabrookfield.com

With 15+ dedicated vegetarian dishes and a lunch buffet featuring 22–25 items, this Indian restaurant makes it easy for kids to sample various options. Classics like Aloo Gobi, Saag Paneer, Chana Masala, and Malai Kofta represent authentic North Indian, South Indian, and Indo-Chinese cuisines. Many dishes are naturally gluten-free, and the spacious dining area accommodates families comfortably. Catering services available. Open Tuesday through Sunday 11:30am–3pm and 4:30pm–9:30pm. Price range: $$

Indian Village Restaurant & Bar — Waukesha

1345 S. West Avenue, Waukesha, WI 53186 Phone: (262) 232-8119 | Website: waukesha.indianvillagegreenfield.com

Modern décor and traditional cooking techniques combine at this family restaurant offering vegetarian curries, dosas, samosas, and excellent Gobi Manchurian. Patio seating, a full bar with Indian beers, and online reservations through Toast add convenience. The restaurant caters weddings and events. Open daily 11am–10pm. Price range: $$

The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill — Waukesha

21481 E. Moreland Boulevard, Waukesha, WI 53186 Phone: (262) 202-8076 | Website: thegreatgreekgrill.com

The fast-casual format serves build-your-own bowls and pitas with vegetarian options including falafel (which is both vegan and gluten-free), fresh hummus, Greek salads, and Mediterranean vegetables. Counter ordering with table service creates a quick turnaround ideal for families with kids, and catering platters work for family events. Open Monday through Thursday 10:30am–9pm, Friday and Saturday 10:30am–10pm, Sunday 10:30am–9pm. Price range: $$

Mekong Cafe

5930 W. North Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53208 (Wauwatosa border) Phone: (414) 257-2228 | Website: mekong-cafe.com

Named for the river connecting Southeast Asian cultures, this family-owned Thai-Laotian-Vietnamese restaurant offers extensive vegetarian customization—any dish can be made vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free with tofu. The lunch buffet lets kids try different items, and a small Asian grocery section sells Thai products and bakery items. Family recipes passed down through generations create authentic flavors. Open Tuesday through Sunday 11am–9pm. Price range: $$

Naf Naf Grill — Multiple Locations

Multiple locations including Brookfield area Website: nafnafgrill.com

This Middle Eastern fast-casual chain offers falafel (vegan and gluten-free), hummus, baba ganoush, and build-your-own bowls, pitas, and salads with vegetarian proteins. Fresh pita bakes throughout the day. The affordable pricing and quick turnaround make it ideal for budget-conscious families. Open typically 10:30am–9pm daily. Price range: $

Northern Suburbs: Ozaukee County

The lakeside communities north of Milwaukee offer charming downtown dining with solid vegetarian options.

Café Hollander — Mequon

5900 W. Mequon Road, Mequon, WI 53092 Phone: (262) 236-0107 | Website: cafehollander.com

This Belgian-American grand café offers extensive dedicated vegan items including the Vegan Brussels Wrap with Violife cheddar and vegan smoked garlic aioli, a Vegan Tofu Scrambler with plant-based chorizo, the Double Smashed Veggie Beet Burger, and Falafel Bowls. A dedicated kids' menu ($7.95) includes mac and cheese, grilled cheese, and noodles with butter. The two-floor dining area, rooftop patio, and Winter Dome experiences create engaging atmospheres, and the location adjacent to the Interurban Trail welcomes bike-riding families. Reservations accepted. Open Monday through Thursday 8am–10pm, Friday and Saturday 8am–11pm, Sunday 8am–10pm. Price range: $$

Twisted Willow Restaurant — Port Washington

308 N. Franklin Street, Port Washington, WI 53074 Phone: (262) 268-7600 | Website: twistedwillowrestaurant.com

This farm-to-table restaurant works directly with local farms to create seasonal menus featuring dishes like Mushroom Linguini, Indian Butter Curry (gluten-free option), and Wild Mushroom Spinach Benedict. The chef accommodates dietary restrictions upon request, and the kids' menu provides options for younger diners. The eclectic atmosphere in a historic building and pet-friendly patio add charm. Live music plays on Fridays. Reservations strongly recommended. Price range: $$–$$$

The Stillery — Grafton

1304 12th Avenue, Grafton, WI 53024 Phone: (262) 421-8777 | Website: thestillerywi.com

This gastropub features Sweet Chili Cauliflower as a popular vegetarian appetizer, gluten-free pizza and buns, and many items that can be modified for vegetarian diets. The family focus shows in dedicated kids' menus, high chairs, and leak-proof cups for children. The private "Rickhouse Room" accommodates parties. Open Monday through Thursday 11am–10pm, Friday and Saturday 11am–11pm, Sunday 11am–10pm. Price range: $$

PJ Piper Pancake House — Cedarburg

W61N514 Washington Avenue, Cedarburg, WI 53012 Phone: (262) 421-8040 | Website: pjpiperwi.com

TripAdvisor rates this breakfast spot as "Vegetarian Friendly" with "Vegan Options." The Veggie Sweet Potato Hash is a customer favorite, and vegetarian omelettes, pancakes, waffles, French toast, and "Breakfast Around the World" options provide plenty of choices. The classic family diner atmosphere includes high chairs, booster seats, generous portions, and coloring activities. All dishes are made from scratch. Located in historic downtown Cedarburg near shopping. Open Tuesday through Saturday 6am–2pm, Sunday 7am–2pm. Price range: $

Stilt House Gastro Bar — Cedarburg

W62N630 Washington Avenue, Cedarburg, WI 53012 Phone: (262) 618-4889 | Website: stilthousegastrobar.com

Vegetarian options at this charming gastropub include Roasted Cauliflower, Wild Mushroom Flatbread, Garden Wrap, and berry salads. The chef accommodates dietary preferences, and outdoor patio seating overlooks Cedar Creek from a 125-year-old historic house. Confirmed as "good for kids" on Yelp. Wine Lovers Monday offers 50% off select bottles for parents. Open Monday through Thursday 11am–10pm, Friday and Saturday 11am–11pm, Sunday 11am–10pm. Price range: $$

Daily Taco + Cantina — Thiensville

105 W. Freistadt Road, Thiensville, WI 53092 Phone: (262) 302-4030 | Website: dailytaco.com

From the owners of the acclaimed (now closed) The Cheel, this Western Mexico-inspired spot offers dedicated vegan taco options, cauliflower rice substitutions, and fresh vegetable-based dishes with Himalayan spice influences. A kids' menu and drive-thru provide family convenience, and fresh-made corn tortillas elevate every dish. Housemade horchata and agua de jamaica offer non-alcoholic options. Open Tuesday through Thursday 11:30am–8pm, Friday and Saturday 11:30am–9pm. Price range: $

Aathira Foods Indian Grocery & Cuisine — Grafton

1590 Harris Drive, Grafton, WI 53024 Phone: (262) 235-1973 | Website: aathirafoodsusa.com

The only Indian restaurant in the immediate northern suburbs offers an extensive vegetarian menu with traditional South Indian dishes—a cuisine that is predominantly vegetarian. Family owners Raji and Dr. Thavasi act as "tour guides" to help families explore Indian cuisine, customizing spice levels for children. No MSG is used, and the attached grocery store sells ingredients for home cooking. Takeout-focused with DoorDash delivery. Open Tuesday 10:30am–7pm, Wednesday through Monday 10am–8:30pm. Price range: $

Southern and Western Suburbs

From West Allis to Oak Creek to Greendale, these areas deliver both dedicated vegan spots and diverse international cuisines.

Twisted Plants — West Allis

6202 W. Lincoln Avenue, West Allis, WI 53219 Phone: (262) 260-8461 | Website: twistedplants.com

The West Allis location of this 100% vegan comfort food spot serves the same beloved menu of Beyond Meat burgers, vegan mozzarella sticks, cauliflower bites, and milkshakes. The restaurant has earned Wisconsin State Fair presence since 2023. Online ordering and delivery through DoorDash, Uber Eats, and GrubHub add convenience. Open Tuesday through Thursday 11am–10pm, Friday and Saturday 11am–10pm, Sunday 11am–7pm. Price range: $$

Indian Delight Restaurant — Oak Creek

7864 S. Howell Avenue, Oak Creek, WI 53154 Phone: (414) 301-5091 | Website: indiandelightoakcreek.com

This 100% vegetarian Indian restaurant offers aromatic curries, fresh-baked breads, chaat dishes, biryanis, and house-made desserts and Indian sweets. The daily rotating buffet makes it easy for families to try multiple items, and vegan and gluten-free options are available. The family-owned establishment caters box lunches for corporate and family events. Open daily 10am–10pm. Price range: $–$$

Al Yousef Restaurant — Oak Creek

6329 S. 20th Street, Oak Creek, WI 53154 Phone: (414) 301-5233 | Website: alyousefrestaurant.com

Described as "Milwaukee's Best Authentic Arabic Food," this Halal-certified restaurant offers extensive vegetarian options including falafel (vegan), fresh hummus, baba ghanoush, stuffed grape leaves, tabbouleh, and a complete Vegetarian Plate combining multiple items. Everything is made fresh to order. The adjacent Al Yousef Supermarket offers Middle Eastern groceries. Open daily 10am–10pm. Price range: $–$$

The Explorium Brewpub — Greendale

5300 S. 76th Street, Unit 1450a, Greendale, WI 53129 (Southridge Mall) Phone: (414) 423-1365 | Website: exploriumbrew.com

This women-owned and veteran-owned brewpub offers house-made black bean patties, hummus appetizers, flatbreads, and many modifiable menu items. Dedicated gluten-free fryers accommodate sensitivities, and most of the 24 house-brewed beers are gluten-removed. The explicitly family-friendly atmosphere includes an outdoor patio with fire pits, arcade areas, trivia nights, and live music. Gender-neutral restrooms available. Military discounts offered. Open Monday through Thursday 11am–10pm, Friday and Saturday 11am–midnight, Sunday 11am–9pm. Price range: $$

Burger Hub — Greenfield

6231 S. 27th Street, Greenfield, WI 53221 Phone: (414) 574-0099 | Website: burgerhubmke.com

Featured in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, this fast-casual spot offers a bean burger for vegetarians alongside its Halal-certified menu. Never-frozen, made-to-order food, affordable pricing, and a 100/100 health department score make it a solid family option. Delivery available through multiple apps. Open daily 10am–10pm. Price range: $

Tricklebee Café — Milwaukee (accessible from southern suburbs)

4424 W. North Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53208 Phone: (414) 488-2477 | Website: tricklebeecafe.org

This non-profit 100% vegan café operates on a pay-what-you-can model, making plant-based dining accessible to all families regardless of budget. The entirely vegan and gluten-free menu features soul food-inspired dishes like A-Fresh-Start Chili, "Load 'Em Up" Carrot Dawg, and Chik'n & Dumpling Soup made with jackfruit. A cookbook with 15 recipes is available for purchase. All proceeds support community programs. Open Wednesday through Saturday 11am–2pm. Price range: Pay-what-you-can

Quick reference by family priority

Best fully vegan restaurants: Twisted Plants (multiple locations), Strange Town, Dead Bird Brewing, Urban Beets Cafe, Tricklebee Café, Beerline Cafe

Best for kids with food allergies: Blooming Lotus Bakery (8-free kitchen), Café Manna (extensive allergen marking), Forage Kitchen (clear labeling)

Most family-friendly atmospheres: Dead Bird Brewing (arcade games), Café Hollander (dedicated kids' menu and rooftop), The Stillery (high chairs and leak-proof cups), PJ Piper (classic family diner)

Budget-friendly options: Bombay Sweets ($1 samosas), Burger Hub, Tricklebee Café (pay-what-you-can), Crave Cafe, Naf Naf Grill

Best for mixed-diet families: Café Corazón (every dish has vegan option), Lulu Cafe (free tofu substitution), Mekong Cafe (any dish customizable), Café Hollander (extensive both-ways options)

Special occasion dining: Strange Town, Café Manna, Twisted Willow, Screaming Tuna

Planning tips for families

Many restaurants accept reservations through OpenTable or their own websites—Café Manna, Screaming Tuna, and Café Hollander especially benefit from booking ahead on weekends. Hours can change seasonally, so calling ahead to confirm is always wise, particularly for smaller establishments like Blooming Lotus Bakery.

For families introducing children to plant-based eating, buffet-style options at Indian restaurants like Taste of India, Indian Delight, and Bombay Sweets allow sampling without commitment. The arcade at Dead Bird Brewing transforms vegan dining into an entertainment destination, while Café Hollander's kids' menu provides familiar comfort foods alongside adventurous options.

The Milwaukee vegan scene continues evolving—Beans & Barley's upcoming closure marks the end of an era, but new concepts regularly emerge. Following restaurants on Instagram provides the most current menu and hours information. Most establishments listed accommodate dietary restrictions beyond vegetarian and vegan, including gluten-free, nut-free, and soy-free options with advance notice.

Conclusion

Greater Milwaukee has transformed into a legitimate destination for vegetarian and vegan families, with options spanning every suburb, cuisine type, and price point. The presence of multiple 100% vegan establishments—from comfort food (Twisted Plants) to upscale farm-to-table (Strange Town) to brewery gaming (Dead Bird)—means fully plant-based families never need to compromise. Meanwhile, the extensive vegetarian options at restaurants like Café Manna, Bombay Sweets, and Indian Delight provide destination-worthy meals, and mainstream spots increasingly offer substantive vegan choices rather than token afterthoughts.

The geographic spread ensures no Milwaukee-area family lives far from quality plant-based options. North Shore families can choose between Urban Beets' vegan Friday Fish Fry and Café Hollander's Belgian-American spreads. Western suburb residents have Café Manna as a green-certified anchor. And the urban core delivers the density of options that plant-based families crave. Whatever your neighborhood, dietary needs, or budget, Milwaukee delivers.