Vegetarian restaurants in Toronto are bountiful and growing in numbers - it's to the point where too many good ones go unrecognized. This list acknowledges the longstanding establishments that having been servicing meatless before it became cool, and a handful of newer spots that are serving up fresh takes on veg-friendly take-away.

Here are my top picks for vegetarian restaurants in Toronto you may not have heard of.

See also:

The Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Toronto

The top 10 vegan non-vegan restaurants in Toronto

The Best Veggie Burger in Toronto

Ital Vital

This vegan takeout counter and juice bar in Scarborough specializes in meatless West Indian Creole combos featuring wholesome stewed root vegetables, chow mein noodles and barbecue tofu.

Irie Veggie

This bare bones take-out on Eglinton at Keele is a reliable source for cheap Caribbean-vegetarian eats that adhere to low sodium, anti-additive Ital principles. The menu boasts hearty vegetable stews, mains, and sides, plus fresh natural juices.

Govinda's

Found in the Hare Krishna Temple on Avenue Rd. this hot table is devoted to vegetarian Indian fare including golden puris, succulent sabjis and decadent desserts.

Green Earth Vegetarian

This family run vegan restaurant in East Chinatown prides itself on offering a diverse line-up of international cuisines. The menu lists everything from rice bowls and Asian noodles, to Italian pastas, burgers and sandwiches.

Tenon Vegetarian

Meat-free Thai food is the specialty at this vegetarian restaurant on Kennedy Rd. The menu lists noodle and rice dishes, along with protiens that mimic shrimp, chicken, duck and beef.

Thrive Organic Kitchen

On Lakeshore in Etobicoke, this eatery is dedicated to serving up all-natural, locally-sourced superfoods that satisfy every day cravings. The menu list all day breakfast options, tacos, sprouted burgers and pizzas, plus wholesome brown rice bowls packed with a vibrant array of vegetables, crunchy seeds and granola.

The Goods

The lunch delivery service operates a raw, vegan take-out counter on Dundas West to accommodate walk-ins looking for organic salad bowls, hot cereals, smoothies and soups. The sweet potato soup is a must try, as are signature shakes like the Insteada, a nutrient packed coffee alternative.

Doug's Public Kitchen

Doug's organic, vegan, gluten-free kitchen near Glencairn station is the answer for meatless eaters looking to brunch on indulgent fare like pumpkin waffles, bagel and faux lox platters, and banana split sundaes.

Lipstick & Dynamite

This divey pub on West Queen West has got a low key vibe and all vegetarian menu. Find vegan po'boys, chili cheese fries and portobello reuben sandwiches.

Lotus Pond Vegetarian Restaurant

This sit down Chinese restaurant in Scarborough offers an extensive menu of meat-free selections including dim sum, congee, hot pot, noodles and rice dishes.

What did I miss? Add you favourite vegetarian gems in the comment section below.

Photo of the Goods by Jesse Milns