Plant-based food culture is on the rise, with nearly 1 in 4 Americans cutting back on their meat consumption, and challenges such as “Veganuary” – eating vegan for the month of January – having a record-breaking 30 million participants in 2026. No matter your reason for choosing to eat meat-free, the St. Augustine culinary scene offers a number of plant-forward dining options without sacrificing flavor.
An Argentinian-inspired brunch cafe, Buena Onda is nestled in the growing West King district of St. Augustine. Their innovative flavors, vibrant atmosphere, and ever-changing specials have drawn a loyal following of herbivores and omnivores alike. The menu is fully vegetarian with most items easily made vegan, and the cafe is complete with a curated market of local handmade goods and vintage clothing. A standout offering is the Present Moment Bowl, packed with kale, avocado, lentils, quinoa, roasted butternut squash, pickled carrots, cashews, tofu, and a bright cilantro goddess dressing. This dish pays homage to The Present Moment Cafe – the popular vegetarian cafe that was housed at this location before Buena Onda moved in – honoring the building’s rich legacy of providing plant-based food to the community.
📍224 West King Street, St. Augustine
Sprout Kitchen, The Works Bagel
Located on historic Charlotte Street in downtown St. Augustine, Sprout is a locally owned 100% plant-based café focused on nutrient-dense, digestive supporting, thoughtfully crafted food. Owner Forrest Masters began the business as a meal delivery service to build her connection to the community and educate people that healthy food can also be delicious and flavorful. Now, her brick-and-mortar allows her to serve the community with an all-female team and a menu featuring house-made milk alternatives, cold-pressed juices, whole food smoothies, craft bagels, salads, and more. A favorite is “The Works” bagel, layered with toasted coconut “bacon,” cultured cashew cream cheese, avocado, and sauerkraut.
📍86 Charlotte Street, St. Augustine
Lotus Noodle Bar, Miso Kinoko
Led by James Beard-nominated and Michelin Guide-recognized chef Barry Honan, Lotus Noodle Bar has earned a reputation for upscale Asian cuisine, including exceptional plant-based offerings. The menu’s vegan and vegetarian dishes are designed with the same level of refinement and care as the rest of Honan’s creations. A favorite is the Miso Kinoko, a 3-year aged white miso, seasonal Japanese mushroom, torched corn, seasonal truffle, and a remarkably realistic vegan “egg.” Pair it with the sweet and spicy sunomono pickled cucumber appetizer and their rotating vegan dessert.
📍56 Grove Avenue, St. Augustine
Sarbez! is a locally loved vintage arcade bar known for its gourmet grilled cheeses, craft beers, live music, and eclectic environment – it also quietly excels in accessibility with a surprising selection of vegan options. Diners can build their own sandwich with their vegan cheese and enjoy a plant-based version of the house “Sarbez sauce.” “The Vegan Griller,” stacked with tempeh, tomato, avocado, hummus, and onion, is their specialty vegan stand-out.
📍115 Anastasia Boulevard, St Augustine
An unsuspecting hole-in-the-wall, Manatee Café boasts a predominantly vegetarian menu that can be modified to accommodate allergies and preferences, including vegan and gluten-free options. This spot is a go-to for locals for its vast yet affordable menu. From pancakes and breakfast burritos to veggie burgers and pizza, it delivers comforting diner-style food with an inclusive twist.
📍525 State Road 16 #106, St. Augustine
Nori Restaurant, Vegetable Pad Thai
Serving the northern end of St. Johns County, family-owned Nori has become a neighborhood favorite by offering an extensive menu with something for everyone, including plenty of plant-based choices. Fried tofu can be substituted in curries, pad thai, hibachi, and other entrées, alongside their vegetarian sushi options, such as the sweet potato tempura roll. The restaurant’s thoughtful approach to accommodating diverse dietary preferences reflects its mission to create a welcoming gathering place for the community.
📍304 Ashourian Avenue, St. Augustine
This casual burger spot makes plant-based dining feel just as indulgent as its classic menu. Vegan options are never an afterthought here, with Impossible Burgers and house-made tempeh patties, vegan cheese, and house-made Kali Sauce and Mojos sauce – both vegan by default. Even dessert isn’t overlooked. Dairy-free milkshakes in classic and rotating seasonal flavors make it easy to enjoy the full experience of a neighborhood burger joint.
📍551 Anastasia Boulevard, St. Augustine
Ayara brings the vibrant flavors of Thai street food to St. Augustine with a menu that’s refreshingly easy to navigate for vegan diners. Plant-based options have their own category on the menu, making it easy to choose from appetizers like curry puffs, chive cakes, and shiitake gyoza before moving on to flavorful entrées such as vegan fried rice, pad ba mee, or eggplant basil. Whether dining in or grabbing takeout, Ayara offers a quick, satisfying meal in the Uptown area of the historic district.
📍140 San Marco Avenue, St. Augustine
Osprey Tacos, Crispy Tofu Tacos
Just across the Bridge of Lions, Osprey Tacos serves fresh, made-to-order tacos in a laid-back outdoor shaded patio that’s popular with both locals and visitors. Known for its creative taco combinations, the restaurant offers flavorful veggie choices, including crispy sweet-and-sour tofu tacos topped with scallions and hoisin sauce, and its unique Brussels sprout tacos topped with pickled onion, black bean puree, and cotija cheese. With a fully customizable menu, Osprey is an easy stop for a casual, satisfying meal.
📍300 Anastasia Boulevard, St. Augustine
Just steps from the Bridge of Lions, Peace, Love, and Little Donuts serves colorful miniature donuts in a shop that embraces a fun, retro atmosphere. Vegan donuts are available by the dozen with advance notice, and the staff is happy to walk guests through the extensive list of plant-based flavors. A little planning ahead is rewarded with delicious, customizable treats that everyone can enjoy.
📍12 Cathedral Place, St. Augustine
EAT LOCAL
This mini dining guide introduces you to the area’s food culture that reflects over 450 years of multicultural influence. From locally-loved spots with traditional menus to world-class restaurants offering fine dining experiences, St. Augustine has something for everyone.
Inside, clickable links help you book reservations, view menus, and plan your visit.
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