For almost two centuries, Pioneer Valley has been home to academics and foodies alike. With college students comes activism and a demand for sustainable food. Here are some vegan-friendly favorites in the area.
Tea & Coffee
The Roost
1 Market St, Northampton, MA 01060 ● (413) 587-2625
This is an easy favorite cafe for vegans and those with gluten-free allergies. It is within walking distance from Smith’s campus in lively downtown Northampton. Why is this a vegan’s favorite? The Roost doesn’t charge extra for milk substitutes. YUP. It’s true. In addition to coffee, they have plenty of snacks, breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. Inside is always cozy and a great spot to study.
Woodstar Cafe
60 Masonic St B, Northampton, MA 01060 ● (413) 585-9777
Yes, another Northampton pick, but trust me! This cozy cafe is a favorite study spot that offers milk substitutes and original drinks besides coffee (try the caffeine-free ginger chai or honey lemon ginger drink). The baked goods always include vegan and gluten-free options.
Breakfast & Brunch
Cafe Evolution
22 Chestnut St, Florence, MA 01062 ● (413) 586-0200
This hidden gem is tucked away in Florence, less than a five minute drive from Northampton. The menu always provides seasonal specials that are truly unique to Cafe Evolution. Perfect spot for a weekend brunch. Delicious bakery items are available, too.
Lunch & Dinner
Iya Sushi and Noodle Kitchen
15 College St, South Hadley, MA 01075 ● (413) 532-8000
While this restaurant is not explicitly vegan or vegetarian, their vegan ramen dish is something you can’t miss. It is warm and comforting on a cold Massachusetts day. They also have several vegan-friendly appetizers and sushi rolls. If you’re there during the summer, be sure to ask for their summer drink specials! And in addition to their South Hadley location, they have a storefront in Amherst.
Pulse Cafe
270 Russell St, Hadley, MA 01035 ● (413) 387-0555
Pulse Cafe is a full-fledged vegan paradise. Not only is Pulse a restaurant, but they also have a market stocked with vegan goodies. Don’t worry—they have gluten free options, too. They’re always serving up brunch specials. Be sure to admire the goats at the animal sanctuary next door before heading in! This is definitely on the pricier side, but a place that students go for a treat.
Haymarket Cafe
185 Main St, Northampton, MA 01060 ● (413) 586-9969
This is a casual spot for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Along with meals, they have fabulous smoothies, fresh squeezed juices, and baked goods. Haymarket is a sustainable restaurant, being a vegetarian cafe with loads of vegan options. They also are community activists; they have a “Common Account” in which customers can make a donation to help fund their sliding scale menu for those who can’t afford a meal.
If Someone Else is Buying
India House
45 State St, Northampton, MA 01060 ● (413) 586-5344
Parents in town and want to treat you for dinner? India House is a wonderful pick. In this brightly decorated restaurant, you will find an abundance of savory plant-based options. Once again, be sure to save your leftovers as the portions are generous!
Dessert
In all honesty, most of the restaurants listed above have dessert options that are not to be missed! However, if there is one place that specializes in desserts that a vegan should go to, it’s…
Glazed Doughnut Shop
19 N Pleasant St, Amherst, MA 01002 ● (413) 230-6811
YES, a doughnut shop that makes fluffy, vegan doughnuts—not cake doughnuts that are so often offered instead of real ones. Some popular ones are covered with Fruity Pebbles or Oreos. Located in downtown Amherst, this is a great spot to satisfy that sweet tooth.
