Buffalo, New York. An up-and-coming city as many like to call it. Also the home of many different types of people including those crazy enough to call themselves vegan. While I'm not personally vegan (yet) but a pescatarian, I find it hard enough finding menu options that match my dietary restrictions. Here's a list of 10 of my favorite places and their best dishes here in Buffalo, New York that cater to every plant-eater's needs. Even if you're not vegan- try some of these meat free options in order to strive for a better, cruelty-free world!

1. Amy's Place

This hole-in-the-wall diner is (arguably) the best restaurant in all of Buffalo to find delicious vegan options. Amy's has incredibly delicious loaded lentil french fries, but while they have vegan breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks, their most intriguing menu portion is its "Buffalo classics gone vegan." With a vegan reuben, vegan buffalo wings, and even a vegan 'beef' on weck, Amy's is the place to be.

2. Merge

If you're looking for a finer place to dine in Buffalo and still eat veg, check out merge! My personal favorite dishes are the doppio ravioli (polenta and carrot ginger fillings in a homemade sweet pea pasta, topped with a sun-dried tomato cashew sauce), the vegan pancakes, or their delicious vegan buffalo wings. The inside atmosphere of the restaurant also makes it one of the better places to go and eat in Buffalo.

3. Allentown Pizza

One dish I'll miss dearly when I become vegan is pizza. What will I do without my pizza? Fear not- here in Buffalo Allentown Pizza makes a mean vegan pizza. That's right, you can have your favorite vegan pepperoni, steak, chicken, taco, or just plain veggie pizza here at Allentown Pizza. It's also relatively inexpensive!

4. The Lexington Co-op

This fun co-operative market is your best grocery source in Buffalo for vegan eats. Whether you're looking for environmentally friendly organic groceries or some veg snacks to go, the co-op has it all.

5. West Side Bazaar

Not only does this establishment have a number of incredible vegan options, but eating here supports many small businesses started by immigrants and refugees from all around the world. So that's right- eating here you can try a number of incredible worldly dishes such as Ethiopian, Burmese, Chinese, Thai, and many more.

6. Squeeze

One of the most refreshing breakfast establishments in Buffalo! With smoothie bowls galore, Squeeze is sure to quench your thirst and be a healthy option for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even a snack. With fresh fruit and organic ingredients, you can't go wrong with Squeeze!

7. Pi Craft

More vegan pizza! At Pi Craft, you can make your own pizza. That's right! It's assembled right in front of your eyes. With a plethora of options, you can load your pizza with veggies- and vegan cheese.

8. Betty's

With a large menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, there's something for everyone at Betty's. Just look for the "V+" on their menu to find items that are or can be made to be vegan! Betty's also has gluten free (gf), dairy free (df), and vegetarian (v) options as well. PS- the thai noodle salad is to die for!

9. Sweetness 7 Cafe

This restaurant is a hip place to hang out with a number of vegan options. Be sure to try the vegan slam breakfast sandwich on one of their homemade english muffins for a delicious, healthy start to the day!

10. Breadhive

This bakery knows their grains. With delicious bread and vegan lunch and breakfast options, you'll understand the buzz surrounding Breadhive! Don't forget to try the Bjork sandwich and lentil soup.

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