Not too long ago, eating out as a vegan meant bland and boring options and multiple back-and-forths with the kitchen. Fast forward today. Vegan-only restaurants abound and, surprise, family-friendly options are available too! Whether you’re a vegan family, or prefer a plant-forward diet, the DMV has plenty of choices for even the pickiest of eaters, grown-ups included!

Photo: HipCityVeg

HipCityVeg

At the local outpost of Philly-based HipCityVeg, kids will love the Ziggy burger (they won’t even realize it’s a tempeh patty) and the Crispy HipCity Ranch sandwich. The latter is a pretty awesome riff on a fried chicken sandwich. Save room for banana whip, a frozen banana treat with your choice of toppings. The small fast-casual venue, however, is best for take-out or during nonpeak hours.

712 Seventh St., NW.

Online: hipcityveg.com

NuVegan Cafe

Known for their plant-based twist on soul-inspired comfort foods, NuVegan is a favorite among District vegans. Their juice bar churns out delicious smoothies, and who doesn’t love fried “chicken” and collard greens? Favorites like the Garvey burger, “chicken” drummies with homemade honey mustard, and vegan lasagna get cheers all round. Both laid back locations have speedy service, and the D.C. location is spacious enough to accommodate families.

2928 Georgia Ave., NW (Columbia Heights)

8150 Baltimore Ave. (College Park, Md)

Online: nuvegancafe.com

Sunflower Vegetarian Restaurant

Both locations of this quirky, Asian-inspired restaurant are adorned with—you got it—sunflowers! Food-wise, there’s something for everyone here. Mom can slurp up some spicy noodles, dad can dig into a vegi-bacon potato pie, and the kids can pull together a tapas menu from appetizers like fried “chicken” on a stick, spring rolls, sushi, and more. (Note: The Vienna location has a couple of items with dairy.)

6304 Leesburg Pike (Falls Church, Va)

2531 Chain Bridge Rd. (Vienna, Va)

Online: crystalsunflower.com

Shouk

This newcomer to the vegan dining scene doesn’t need to use the “v” word to describe their restaurant; their Middle Eastern-inspired menu speaks for itself. In addition to an assortment of plant-based pita sandwiches, Shouk’s polenta fries and choc chip cookie have bona-fide kid-appeal. Point to note, The Washington Post recently showed their veggie burger lotsalove.

655 K St. NW (Mt. Vernon Square)

Online: shouk.com