STL Vegan Punk

Directions Website

STL Vegan Punk STL Vegan Punk is a food blog dedicated to a plant-based diet. I will explore vegan options in the Saint Louis area and beyond.

Also, it wouldn't be a very punk rock if I didn't speak out on human and animal rights, too.

Vegan Biscuits!I had a little downtime two weeks ago, so I decided to hit one of my favorite cities for a night. Nashvil...
10/08/2026

Vegan Biscuits!

I had a little downtime two weeks ago, so I decided to hit one of my favorite cities for a night. Nashville has some great vegan spots, such as The BE-Hive and Graze Nashville. But this time I added another awesome place to my list.

Multiple Instagram mutuals suggested I hit Guerilla Bizkits. They had been on my radar for a while, and since I wanted to leave early the next day, the timing was perfect for a visit.

Owners Zach and Alex live by a punk ethos: anti-fascist, anti-capitalist, anti-militarist, anti-authoritarian, anti-sexist, anti-racist, anti-homophobic, and pro-animal rights. This gave me all the more reason to support their business.

The menu is simple. They offer three types of biscuits, and all of them can be made into a breakfast sandwich with vegan sausage and vegan cheese. They also have gravy, and I’m still kicking myself for not trying it.

I went with the classic Buttermilk, and yes, it was made into a breakfast sandwich!

My trip to Nashville was short, but adding Guerilla Bizkits to the rotation made it all worthwhile. Visit them Thursday and Friday from 8-2 and Saturday and Sunday from 9-3.

How Sweet It Is, Chapter Three!It’s been over a year since SweetArt Bakeshop & Cafe left its home on South 39th Street a...
09/18/2026

How Sweet It Is, Chapter Three!

It’s been over a year since SweetArt Bakeshop & Cafe left its home on South 39th Street and moved to Lindell Boulevard. Since I had covered their expansion to Foundry last year, I wasn’t in a rush to check out the new location. But now seems like a great time!

Inside a larger room in Coronado Place, this classic vegan restaurant has access to SLU campus and other foot traffic in Midtown. And the size makes a huge difference. Beforehand you were right on top of other customers. Now everything is spacious and elegantly understated.

But what’s most important is the food. SweetArt still has some of best vegan breakfast, lunch, and dessert items.

My first visit was for brunch. I got the SAUSAGE + EGG + CHEESE BISWISH: a house made, vegan version of the before mentioned items. They also offer plates, burritos, and sandwiches only available on Sundays.

As far as the lunch menu, most of you are likely familiar with the usual suspects. I chose to enjoy the MAKE IT FUNKY: lettuce + tomato + cheese + vms + bbq +coconut bacon + caramelized onions + side of fries or kale salad. SweetArt’s handhelds pretend to be the real thing just enough but still have a distinct taste and texture. So much better than an Impossible Burger.

What haven’t I said about this amazing establishment? One of the best in our city. And if you happen to be in Midtown, definitely visit them in their newish home, every day but Tuesday.

Second Location, Same Great Vegan Options!Lona's Lil Eats has been one of my favorite restaurants in South City for over...
09/04/2026

Second Location, Same Great Vegan Options!

Lona's Lil Eats has been one of my favorite restaurants in South City for over a decade. When I began my transition to veganism, I was glad that I didn’t have to cut it out of my existence, offering spicy tofu plates, wraps, and other plant based appetizers.

Murmurs of a second location have been circulating for quite some time. While their home will always be California Ave to me, having a second spot in Kirkwood gives more people a chance to enjoy these Lil Eats.

I was a little surprised by the venue choice, not being too close to the main drag, but this allows for more space in the kitchen and dining area. I’m sure that they will take advantage of it!

Lona’s is known for their rice paper wraps. In recent years, I’ve preferred the plate option, but in honor of the new place, I ordered this classic with the spicy tofu, fried rice, and Lona Q Sauce. And a side of stir fried veggies. All vegan!

But don’t sleep on the dumplings. The vegan version comes with mushrooms inside, along with a spicy dipping sauce. Perfect for sharing. Or for over-stuffing yourself at a solo lunch. Haha

Welcome to Kirkwood, Lona! But don’t forget about us folk who keep the lights on in South City.

Vegan Detroit Style Pizza!Apparently, it’s Pizza Week here at STL Vegan Punk, Inc., so it only made sense to visit the p...
08/14/2026

Vegan Detroit Style Pizza!

Apparently, it’s Pizza Week here at STL Vegan Punk, Inc., so it only made sense to visit the pizza place that’s been grabbing this city’s attention, Nicky Slices Pizza Club.

I’m not here to get too deep into the praise of founder Nick Williams. Several local magazines and blogs have already talked about his rise from side hustle to restaurant game changer. I’m interested in great vegan options, and Mr. Williams didn’t disappoint.

After a few drinks at 2nd Shift Brewing, my friend and I made it to Nicky Slices. While the overall menu is far from vegan, but very vegetarian friendly, they offer vegan alternatives in both slice and full pie form.

The OG Vegan is simple: an 8x10 thick crust pizza, cut into squares, with marinara and vegan cheese provided by those rad dudes at The BE-Hive.

That’s all you need. The marinara carries this pie, but the crust and vegan cheese are damn near as good. I ate two slices before bed and crushed the rest for lunch the following day.

If you’re not looking for a whole pie, they sell vegan slices for $9. So I may pop in soon to have the compact version.

STL’s pizza game is out of control, and Nicky Slices goes toe to toe with the best.

Visit them in The Hill Wednesday through Saturday for dinner. They also have a take and bake menu.

Old School!Pizzeoli Wood Fired Pizza in Soulard has been ahead of the curve for quite some time. They have served vegan ...
08/11/2026

Old School!

Pizzeoli Wood Fired Pizza in Soulard has been ahead of the curve for quite some time. They have served vegan protein for well over a decade, and now they offer several plant based salads, appetizers, and pizzas.

After a little Sunday afternoon fun, I was craving pizza. However, I wanted something other than my usual neighborhood choices. When Pizzeoli came to mind, I knew that it was the perfect time to explore their substantial options.

The first item on the vegan menu is their Chili-Kissed Garlic Knots: knots of tied dough, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and chili oil. It’s served with marinara. These knots kick ass. I would literally come in just for a pint and this appetizer. Definitely include these for yourself or to share with the table.

They have six different vegan pizzas. I went with the Tea Maker: tomato sauce, vegan sausage, chili oil, nutritional yeast, and dollops of blended garlic and cashew. It’s easy to buy some Daiya or Follow Your Heart, but this creamy topping is both thoughtful and delicious.

What a hidden gem! Quietly tucked away on 12th Street in Soulard. But it’s no secret. The tables were full on a Sunday evening.

Treat yourself to some Pizzeoli, open daily from 4:00 pm to 9:30 pm.

A Taste of Lebanese Vegan!A few months ago, an Instagram mutual suggested I check out Taste of Lebanon. They have whole ...
07/16/2026

A Taste of Lebanese Vegan!

A few months ago, an Instagram mutual suggested I check out Taste of Lebanon. They have whole menu dedicated to plant based options, and the prices are very reasonable. So I knew that I was destined to visit this establishment, tucked away on North Euclid in the Central West End.

Sadly, Lebanon has been in the news because they’ve been terrorized by the state of Israel. Since March, over 4,000 Lebanese people have been killed and three times that have been injured. One million citizens are now displaced by the Israeli military. A country known as a melting pot of religions and cultures is facing a similar fate as the Palestinians in Gaza.

So why mention it? Well, if we don’t recognize these atrocities, then we may lose an entire population and its history. And that means much more than exploring any vegan menu.

That being said, the vegan menu is impressive. From wraps to pizzas to appetizers, Taste of Lebanon has vegans covered. With nine items available, I made two trips!

Here are the five items I tried:

Vegan Saujok Sandwich: Homemade spicy Lebanese sausage, wrapped in pita with hummus, garlic sauce, and tahini.

Vegan Kibbeh: 3 bulgur shells, stuffed with vegan meat, onions, and fried. Served with tahini.

Tabouli and Fries: Pita bread filled with French fries and their tangy tabouli.

Vegan Mozzarella Zaa’Tar Pie: Vegan pizza with thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, and olive oil.

Vegan Mozzarella Spinach Pie: Self explanatory.

I was very grateful for the suggestion, and you should definitely check out Taste of Lebanon. They open at noon every day but Monday.

More Vegan Options on South Grand!If you’re a vegan or vegetarian in Saint Louis, you already know that South Grand is t...
06/30/2026

More Vegan Options on South Grand!

If you’re a vegan or vegetarian in Saint Louis, you already know that South Grand is the place to be. This street is rich with spots that are completely meatless or have meatless alternatives. Pizza, tacos, hot dogs, brunch, Mediterranean, and so much more.

Well, let’s add another place to that list. Basil India offers three vegan dishes and a list of appetizers that can be vegan. Of course, most Indian food is inherently vegetarian.

While walking down South Grand, I noticed their sidewalk sign promoting Vegan Tikka Masala. Before I gave up dairy, the normal version of this dish was my go to at Indian restaurants. I knew that I needed to try this non-dairy alternative.

You can choose from tofu, potatoes, vegetables, or lotus seed. And it comes with a bowl of rice. All for $18.

While I enjoyed their Vegan Tikka Masala, the better value is their Chana Masala: chickpeas in curry. This dish is only $14.

I love Indian food, and I can’t believe I’ve never thought once to check out this restaurant, despite walking past it hundreds of times.

South Grand isn’t short of vegetarian and vegan food, but it’s good to know that we have Indian food covered, too.

Basil India is open seven days, for both lunch and dinner.

Seven years of STL Vegan Punk!Last month was the seventh anniversary of this blog, and I thought I’d take this opportuni...
06/10/2026

Seven years of STL Vegan Punk!

Last month was the seventh anniversary of this blog, and I thought I’d take this opportunity to share seven things I’ve learned during this time.

1. Veganism is not difficult. “I could never be vegan” is easily the most common answer I get when I share my lifestyle. Yes, you can. I ate meat for 37 years. Was the transition perfect? No. But I did it. What would be difficult for me is going back to consuming animal products.

2. Collectively, vegans need to get their s**t together. During these past seven years, I’ve met some wonderful people. However, I’ve also met vegans who alienate and hate other vegans for arbitrary reasons. We waste so much time focusing on our differences when we should be focusing on what connects us.

3. Just because you’re vegan doesn’t mean you’re a good person. Recently, many local vegans have had to make tough choices about which restaurants to support. I won’t point fingers here, but some of you know whom I’m talking about. Just like punk, veganism is rooted in kindness, ideally for both animals and humans.

4. When someone asks you why you became vegan, tell them for all the reasons. The animals, the planet, the inhumane practices of these companies, and health. In the end, it’s all intertwined. And once you make that connection, it’s impossible to disconnect them.

5. We should always be grateful for vegan staples such as Tree House Vegetarian Restaurant, Pizza Head, Bombay Food Junkies, and SweetArt Bakeshop & Cafe. Feel free to add to the list.

6. Hating on Chicago Diner is a hipster move. Haha

7. We’ve lost many great spots, but I will forever miss Lulu’s Local Eatery.

I could go on. I will never regret the choice I made to go vegan in September of 2017. And I will always be grateful to the community that’s been built since my first post in May of 2019.

Thanks for reading. Let’s make year eight a memorable one!

Why did I wait so long?!How does a vegan punk live near South Grand for three and a half years and not visit The Vine Ca...
05/19/2026

Why did I wait so long?!

How does a vegan punk live near South Grand for three and a half years and not visit The Vine Cafe and Market? That’s a question I cannot answer. Several mutuals and friends have suggested this Mediterranean cafe down the street for years, and it finally got through.

While The Vine isn’t strictly vegan or vegetarian, the options are substantial. From appetizers, soups, salad, sandwiches, and dinner entrees. Not to mention their juice bar!

Yes, I’ve been slow to the game, but I made up for it on Sunday. I walked in with a mad hunger and was ready to tackle some plant based items on this menu.

First of all, I had to try the falafel. You can have it as an appetizer, on pita bread, or for the main course. I chose the four count, which comes tahini sauce. A nice way to start the meal!

The dinner menu has six different vegan meals to choose from. I went with the Batata Harra: cubed potatoes, cilantro, garlic, and hot spices sautéed in olive oil. They definitely had a little heat but nothing too aggressive. Served on a bed of rice, I was in starch heaven!

The dinner also comes with your choice of soup or salad. I knew that I had to have the Lentil Soup: a creamy blend of lentils, onions, and spices. This made my day. Simple and hearty, I could eat it daily.

They also have a $12 lunch special. You can choose any sandwich on the menu, and it includes a side of fries. Four sandwich choices are vegan.

I don’t have any excuses. This visit should have happened a long time ago. But it’s better late than never.

The Vine isn’t a secret to most vegetarians and vegans in Saint Louis. But if you haven’t been yet, they have same hours every day, 11-8:30. Kitchen closes at eight.

I look forward to my next visit!

Craft b**r and vegan options!As we close in on this blog’s seventh anniversary, you may have noticed a trend of pint gla...
05/12/2026

Craft b**r and vegan options!

As we close in on this blog’s seventh anniversary, you may have noticed a trend of pint glasses and b**r cans in many of my photos. Yes, it’s true. While discovering new vegan spots has been a passion, enjoying local b**r is not too far behind. When I can combine the two, it brings me great joy.

The Old Bakery B**r Company lets me combine these two passions.

I called my mother midweek to see if she had plans on Sunday. Much to my surprise, neither one of my two brothers was taking her out that day, choosing alternate dates. She didn’t want to go to brunch, and her two favorite vegan spots were closed. I suggested Old Bakery, and you can imagine how thrilled I was when she agreed to go.

This brewery was established in 2015. Known for b**rs like their Citrus Wheat, Up River IPA, Blueberry, and Porter, you’ve probably seen their product in cans or on tap. What I didn’t know was how vegan friendly their food menu was.

Every section of it has an option. From starters, salads, sandwiches, burgers, tacos, and sides, anyone exploring a plant based lifestyle won’t feel stuck when choosing an item.

For my starter, I chose the Crabby Bites: artichoke and chickpea “crab” bites with a Cajun dipping sauce.

My main course was the Vegan Chicken Sandwich: a crispy “chicken” sandwich, dill pickle mayo, pickle chips, and lettuce on a toasted bun. Each sandwich and burger comes with a side. I chose French fries!

I couldn’t decide if the patty was house made, but it tasted like a premium vegan chicken patty, nonetheless. Meanwhile, the crab snacks were also a great choice. My mother and I shared them, and I cooked the rest in the air fryer for lunch the next day.

The options don’t end there. I still have four or five things I could have tried, so there will be another trip to the brewery in the near future.

If you’re not a fan of craft b**r, Old Bakery offers an array of beverages, including NA options. Family friendly and a great menu, it’s not too far into the city of Alton, just on the other side of the Missouri River.

Visit them every day but Monday. Hours vary. And they have vegan options at brunch, too!

Address

400 Landmarks Blvd
Alton, IL
62002

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when STL Vegan Punk posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Shortcuts

Share

Category