Festive & Dietary-Friendly: Vegetarian, Vegan, and Gluten-Free Treats in Raleigh
The holiday season is a time for indulging in festive treats, but for those with dietary preferences or restrictions, finding delicious options isn’t always easy.
Luckily, Raleigh’s culinary scene has something for everyone, including an array of bakeries and cafés offering vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary-friendly goodies. Here’s your guide to finding the best spots downtown to treat yo’ self while taking care of your body!
1. Element Gastropub: 421 Fayetteville St., Suite 103
Specialty: 100 percent plant-based and vegan menu, from shareables to entrees to desserts
Current Treats: Pop's Peanut Butter Cheesecake, Apple Pie & Ice Cream, Seasonal Cake
Why Go: Element Gastropub offers a stylish atmosphere with inventive twists on classic dishes. Their vegan and gluten-free dessert options ensure everyone can indulge, making it an ideal spot for holiday celebrations with large groups.
2. Raleigh Raw: 7 W. Hargett St.
Specialty: Juice cleanses, organic coffee, and a scratch-made menu that’s entirely unprocessed, free from soy, gluten, refined sugar, and seed oils.
Current Treats: Raw Pumpkin Pie, Basic ‘B’ Smoothie, Spiced Apple Cider
Why Go: For a guilt-free treat, Raleigh Raw offers healthier options that don’t skimp on flavor. Their desserts are made with natural ingredients, making them a perfect pick-me-up during the holiday hustle.
3. Lucettegrace: 235 S. Salisbury St.
Specialty: French-inspired pastries with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options upon request
Current Treats: gluten-free Thanksgiving Chocolate Hazelnut Torte, gluten-free macarons (most flavors), vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie Croissant
Why Go: This chic patisserie specializes in delightful desserts, including gluten-free versions of classic holiday treats. Lucettegrace’s Thanksgiving Chocolate Hazelnut Torte makes a stunning addition to any holiday table and is the perfect way to end a festive meal.
4. The Fiction Kitchen: 2409 Crabtree Blvd, #100 (their new location is two miles outside of downtown but worth the drive!)
Specialty: Fully vegan menu with a wide variety of gluten-free, soy-free, and nut-free options
Current Treats: Pumpkin Cheesecake with Pretzel Crust, Chocolate Cake with Raspberry Coulis; they’re also offering a Thanksgiving package for pre-order with items including By the Brook Tempeh Meatloaf, Apple-Sage Dressing, Brown Butter Green Beans with almonds, and more (all vegan!)
Why Go: Known for its inventive plant-based menu, Fiction Kitchen’s offerings are thoughtfully crafted with your health in mind. This cozy spot is perfect for indulging in comfort food and sweets with friends or family.
5. Lucky Tree: 3801 Hillsborough St.
Specialty: The menu is created with natural, whole ingredients and is fully wheat-free, featuring plenty of vegan-friendly choices. Additionally, Lucky Tree showcases artwork and handcrafted items from over 50 local artists.
Current Treats: Lucky Tree keeps it classic with its chocolate chip cookies, oatmeal cookie sandwiches, muffins, and breakfast biscuits. Everything is freshly baked in their wheat-free kitchen, so visit the café to see what they have new each day for the holidays!
Why Go: Lucky Tree is a charming spot for coffee, treats, and local art. The café’s focus on health-conscious and allergen-friendly recipes makes it a must-visit for those with dietary needs. Bonus: you can grab some holiday gifts from local artisans while you’re there!
6. Heirloom Brewshop: 219 S. West St.
Specialty: Asian-inspired café fare with gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan selections
Current Treats: Mochi Waffle, Sesame Pan Toast & Sweetened Condensed Milk (they also have a complete breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu with rotating desserts)
Why Go: Heirloom’s peaceful, minimalist aesthetic offers an ideal break from the holiday rush. Their unique treats blend seasonal flavors with international inspiration creating an experience that’s both festive and sophisticated.
Tips for Enjoying Dietary-Friendly Treats in Downtown Raleigh
Order Ahead: Many bakeries and cafés offer holiday specials that are popular and can sell out. Calling or ordering online in advance ensures you get the treats you want!
Explore Holiday Markets: Raleigh’s seasonal markets, like Triangle Pop-Up, often feature vendors with vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary-friendly treats. It’s a great way to try a variety of unique goodies.
Try Seasonal Drinks: In addition to baked goods, many of these spots offer holiday-themed drinks that cater to dietary preferences. Look out for vegan eggnog lattes, gingerbread matcha, and spiced teas!