Soul Vegetarian Restaurant #1

"Don’t let “vegetarian” in the name fool you, this food is 100-percent vegan. Soul Vegetarian is a longstanding restaurant staple in the West End community. The vegan soul food restaurant is run by an Atlanta chapter of the African Hebrew Israelite Community of Jerusalem. Look for dishes such as a traditional Jerusalem rice platter or takes on Southern comfort foods like barbecue tofu or onion rings. There’s also a location in Poncey-Highland near Fishmonger and Sweet Auburn Barbecue." - Beth McKibben, Henna Bakshi

"Long before the vegan wave hit Atlanta, Soul Vegetarian established itself as the reigning champion of meat-free Southern comfort food — particularly within Atlanta’s historically African-American communities. It also helped expand awareness of just how flavorful a strictly meat-free diet can be, and has particularly dispelled the notion that a plate of soul food must be cooked into grayscale and can’t be full of vibrant, colorful bites. The deep-green romaine and electric red julienned beets used in the eggless salad are solid proof. Try the crisp-fried or saucy barbecue tofu here or the exclusive “kalebone” meat substitute, which is a gluten-heavy protein used in lieu of country fried steak. There’s also a location on North Highland." - Mike Jordan, Eater Staff

"When we think about Atlanta classics, Soul Vegetarian is right up there with J.R. Crickets and the time Big Boi shouted “ATL, hoe!” during his halftime performance with Maroon 5. We're proud to have this place, which has been a go-to for delicious, plant-based comfort food since the '80s. The daily selection of sides like the vegan mac and cheese and greens keeps neighborhood regulars and AUC students filling up the dining room for these flavorful meat-free soul staples." - jacinta howard

"There’s a widely circulating rumor that good, healthy food can’t be found at a decent price. Soul Vegetarian, a West End mainstay for decades, disproves that notion with tasty smoothies ($8.95), hearty salads ($12), and lunch specials ($13.50) comprised of alternative proteins and fresh vegan sides as good as any fast-food option you’ll find down the street." - demarco williams, nina reeder, jacinta howard

"This may be an exaggeration, but we don’t think a thing has changed about this spot in the West End since the ’80s. The not-so-great news is that the dining room could use a facelift. The good part, however, is that the daily selection of alternative proteins (seitan, vital wheat gluten) and sides (their renowned mac and “cheese”) is as fresh and tasty as ever. Soul Veg’s smoothie bar is still open next door, too, which is great, considering your craving for the Strawberry Redemption is stronger now than it ever was." - nina reeder, demarco williams, juli horsford