Eating out shouldn’t mean compromising your diet, and in Eau Claire, it doesn’t have to! Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free (or all three), the city is packed with restaurants serving delicious dishes that cater to every lifestyle. From hearty plant-based meals to crave-worthy gluten-free comfort food, we’ve rounded up the best spots to satisfy your taste buds without the worry. Some of these restaurants even check multiple boxes, making it easier than ever to enjoy a meal that hits all the right notes. Find the best places to eat vegan, vegetarian, and/or gluten-free in Eau Claire below.
We’ve done our best to include all the top vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free spots in Eau Claire, and this is meant to highlight the spots that really cater to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diners—places with dedicated menu items, thoughtful substitutions, or entire sections built just for you. Of course, menus change and new spots pop up all the time, so there may be a few gems we’ve missed. If you know a restaurant that deserves a shoutout, let us know!
Places That Serve Vegan Foods in Eau Claire
The Nucleus Cafe
Vegan ✓ Vegetarian ✓
This Water Street favorite nails the art of vegan brunch. Their vegan menu includes hits like the vegan chicken crunch wrap that taste just as good as the meaty versions. Pair it with a smoothie or oat milk latte, and you’ve got the perfect start to your day at The Nucleus Cafe!
The Informalist
Vegan ✓ Vegetarian ✓ Gluten-Free ✓
For an elevated vegan dining experience, head to The Informalist inside The Lismore Hotel. Dishes like their salads and seasonal plant-based specials bring big flavor and creativity to the table. It’s ideal for date night or anyone who wants a little extra flair with their vegan fare.
Eau Claire Downtown Coffee (ECDC)
Vegan ✓ Vegetarian ✓
Alongside its stellar espresso drinks, ECDC offers vegan brunch items and smoothies that make it a top pick for a casual, plant-based morning stop or afternoon treat.
Shanghai Bistro
Vegan ✓ Vegetarian ✓
A go-to for Asian-inspired dishes, Shanghai Bistro makes it easy to eat vegan and meatless. Choose tofu in your stir-fries, load up on veggies, and find an entire portion of the menu dedicated to vegetarian, vegan, and meatless options.
Thai Orchid
Vegan ✓ Vegetarian ✓
A local favorite for authentic Thai food, Thai Orchid serves vegan-friendly versions of classics like green curry, Pad Thai, and massaman curry. Plus, there are plenty of options to build your own soup bowl with veggie broth and other plant-based ingredients.
3rd & Vine
Vegan ✓ Vegetarian ✓ Gluten-Free ✓
A craft beer and cheese bar with a surprising vegan side! 3rd & Vine's rotating vegan specials (think crispy tofu sandwiches and vegan curries) make this a must-visit for anyone who loves creative comfort food and good vibes. Plus, they have plenty of gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly shareables to go with your beer!
Places That Serve Vegetarian Foods in Eau Claire
Wonders of Nature Cafe
Vegetarian ✓ Gluten-Free ✓
Wonders of Nature Cafe is a vegetarian paradise filled with fresh, nourishing eats. The menu features wraps, smoothies, salads, and baked goods crafted from local and organic ingredients. Try the hummus veggie wrap, a refreshing smoothie, or tasty toast for the ultimate feel-good meal in the coziest of spaces.
Valley Burger Company
Vegetarian ✓
Proof that burgers aren’t just for meat eaters, Valley Burger Company offers a house-made veggie patty that’s every bit as satisfying as the real thing. Pair it with their hand-cut fries or brussels sprouts, and you’ve got comfort food done right.
Juanita's Mexican Restaurant
Vegan ✓ Vegetarian ✓
Juanita’s goes big on vegetarian options. Load up on veggie burritos, tacos, or sizzling fajitas packed with peppers and onions. Plus, these entrees can easily be made vegan – just ask for no sour cream or cheese!
Muang Thai
Vegetarian ✓
Rich curries, savory noodle dishes, and vibrant stir-fries make Muang Thai a vegetarian dream. Choose tofu as your protein and dig into a bowl of green curry, drunken noodles, or Pad See Ew loaded with veggies.
Cancun Grill
Vegetarian ✓
This lively Mexican spot makes it easy for vegetarians to find something delicious. Choose from veggie tacos, cheese enchiladas, burritos, and so much more. With warm service and colorful plates, Cancun Grill keeps every meal festive!
Places That Serve Gluten-Free Foods in Eau Claire
Mona Lisa's
Vegan ✓ Vegetarian ✓ Gluten-Free ✓
One of Eau Claire’s most beloved fine-dining spots, Mona Lisa’s is a haven for gluten-free diners who don’t want to compromise on flavor. Many dishes can be made gluten-free upon request, including their pasta and entree selections. From risottos to fresh seafood and seasonal specialties, this Water Street gem is perfect for a date night or a celebration
Rice Palace
Vegetarian ✓ Gluten-Free ✓
Rice Palace makes it easy to eat gluten-free without missing out on your favorite Asian-inspired dishes. Most items are made with rice noodles or steamed rice, and the staff are great about accommodating gluten sensitivities. Try the pad Thai or spicy basil stir-fry—just double-check sauces when ordering to keep your meal 100% gluten-free.
Leona's Pizzeria
Vegetarian ✓ Gluten-Free ✓
Craving pizza but can’t do gluten? Leona’s has you covered with a delicious gluten-free crust option that doesn’t sacrifice texture or taste. Build your own creation or choose from their signature pies loaded with fresh toppings. And feel free to skip the meat for their select vegetarian pizza options.
The French Press
Vegetarian ✓ Gluten-Free ✓
Known for being a go-to for gluten-free breakfast and lunch lovers, The French Press has a menu full of clearly marked gluten-free options. Indulge in gluten-free pancakes, sandwiches on GF bread, or their rotating lineup of fresh-baked goods.
Foster's Fireside
Vegetarian ✓ Gluten-Free ✓
Just north of Osseo, Foster’s Fireside is a cozy, locally-owned spot where scratch-made, wood-fired dishes take center stage. Many menu items can be made gluten-free, including their artisan pizzas with a GF crust option, fresh salads, and hearty wraps. Plus, pizzas like the Veg Out, That's What Cheese Said, and Margherita skip the meats to offer some vegetarian options.