Soul Veg City

"Soul food isn’t simply about fall-off-the-bone meat and smothered pork chops. Head to the Greater Grand Crossing neighborhood and you’ll find a 40-year-plus vegan soul food staple that is good enough for any carnivore. Think options like: Eggless rolls, seitan sloppy joe’s, and black-eyed pea burgers. Try the hot food bar or order some classics like the protein tibits (seasoned and fried cornmeal-battered tofu). Order for pickup or delivery online through Grubhub and Doordash." - Ashok Selvam

"Soul Veg City (formerly Soul Vegetarian East) has inspired the launch of many other Black-owned, Southern food-influenced vegan restaurants around the country and with a beautiful recent remodel, it remains as relevant as ever. People have been flocking here since 1981, enjoying filling, flavorful meals like the sub-style shrimp boat with fixings." - Marla Rose, Eater Staff

"A vegetarian restaurant that features Swap Food's plant-based meat alternatives." - Marla Rose

"Along 75th Street, Soul Vegetarian has been an oasis for meat- and dairy-free meals for decades. The restaurant’s recent transformation to more of a cafeteria-style spot showcases a diverse menu with many affordable options. The hot bar is underrated and is a great place for folks with different dietary concerns who still crave hearty fare." - Ashok Selvam, Eater Staff

"Soul Veg City is the update to Chicago’s iconic Soul Vegetarian, a pillar in the meat-free community for decades. The new space offers more fast-casual service but retains the juice bar. They are wizards with coconut milk and mix it into many vegan items, including the mind-blowing pineapple supreme smoothie. It’s a stop with plenty of fascinating history along 75th Street." - Naomi Waxman, Samantha Nelson