Dairy-Free Ontario: The Best Restaurants & Shops by City

Last Update in October 2023! We’ve created this ever-growing guide to restaurants, bakeries, cafes, ice cream shops, and stores in Ontario that are friendly to dairy-free diners. It’s a collection based on research and reader recommendations (send yours!) that’s divided into restaurants & shops by city (first) and major chains found throughout the state (second). And we’ve started a section for specialty dairy-free foods produced in this state.

We Update Continuously! You can ignore the original date on this post going forward. We update the information below whenever we’re alerted to a new recommendation, change, or closure.

Dairy-Free Ontario: Recommended Restaurants & Shops

We’ve listed these recommendations alphabetically by city and then by the restaurant or shop name. For large chains with locations throughout the state, see the Major Restaurant & Grocery Chains section below. We have dedicated posts with dairy-free details for many of the big guys.

⭐️ = Restaurant is either dairy-free, has a dairy-free menu, has dairy-free labels on their menu(s), or lists top allergens with menu items. (At the time of our last review.)

Ajax

Choko-Mocko Gluten Free Bakeshop ⭐️ – Somehow, they manage to make crepes, croissants, cookies, brownies, breads, and so much more without gluten, dairy, eggs, grains, and even sugar! They have so many paleo, keto, and vegan options that are sweet, savory, and available as grocery items.
Il Fornello – They have a smattering of restaurants in the greater Toronto area, all renowned for wood-fired pizza and fine Italian cuisine. They offer a full vegan menu that varies from location to location, but is quite extensive at all. It includes salads, pastas, pizzas with dairy-free cheeses, and desserts. Many more menu items can be made “just dairy-free,” too.

Aurora

Chocolate Favoris – They offer dairy-free soft serve flavors and frozen dessert bars that can be dipped in vegan dark chocolate. They have some other sweet treat options, too.

Barrie

Around My Gluten Free Table – Thanks to Angela for letting us know this shop does offer dairy-free and vegan options. They’re a from-scratch kitchen and bakery and also a gluten-free grocer.
Beertown – They have a very impressive “plant-based” vegan menu, with many burgers, bowls, and shareables – like nachos and truffle fries with “varmesan.” Many more menu items can be ordered dairy free, and they have gluten-friendly options.
Chef Chan – Angela emailed to let us know, “no dairy is used on their menu.” They have an expansive Chinese food menu.
Goodness Me! – This is a local, full-service, natural grocery store that also has a big supplement section. They offer many dairy alternative products and also have a plethora of other dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan foods available.
J’adore Fine Cheese and Chocolate – Thank you to Angela for letting us know this shop carries several locally-made, dairy-free cheese alternatives.
Mexhico ⭐️ – Their fully plant-based menu is vegan and dairy-free, and includes nachos, enchiladas, flautas, churros, and much more. Thanks to Angela for letting us know about this spot!
Mmm Donuts ⭐️ – This is a completely vegan bakery. They make an array of standard, classic, fancy, and gourmet donuts fresh daily, but also have other baked goodies and make custom order cakes.
Spoon and Fork – According to Angela, “most food is dairy free. There are a few entree dishes which are cooked with butter.” They offer an expansive Japanese and Thai menu, plus pastas. But most of the Italian-style dishes do contain dairy.
Swirleez – Angela let us know this soft serve shop has “several DF/Vegan options available every day.”
The Vegan Pantry ⭐️ – This grab-and-go spot is a full bakery with an array of sweet treats. But they also make pizzas, other hot meals, freezer meals, and deli items.
Wok Box – This is a fresh Asian chain in Canada that is special diet friendly. They offer an allergen guide with their nutrition information, and naturally, most of their Asian menu is dairy-free. They also label which items can be made vegan and/or gluten-free.

Brampton

Nando’s – Check their nutrition information pdf for allergens and a dairy-free column! They seem to include eggs with dairy, but it is still very helpful. At last check, dairy-free items at Nando’s included most of their chicken (including their famous peri-peri), tons of sauces, a selection of sides, and more. They also have some vegan-friendly items.
Pizza Twist – They have an extensive vegan pizza menu with dairy-free cheese, all types of sauces, and a plethora of dairy-free toppings. Almost any pizza on their menu can be ordered without dairy.

Brantford

Dairee Delite – Thanks to Claire for this recommendation. This soft serve shop doesn’t forget dairy-free guests. They offer one vegan flavor daily – sometimes Dole Whip, sometimes creamy oatmilk vanilla, sometimes both (can be twisted) – and can make other dairy-free desserts like sundae, slushes, and more.
Goodness Me! – This is a local, full-service, natural grocery store that also has a big supplement section. They offer many dairy alternative products and also have a plethora of other dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan foods available.
The Healthy Rabbit – They have a huge dairy-free drink menu, with smoothies, wellness shots, lattes, kombucha on tap, and local beer and cider. They also have a healthy-sized dessert menu that’s all vegan and gluten-free, and mostly raw. Their savory food menu does contain dairy, but there are plenty of dairy-free dishes and options to fulfill.

Burlington

Beertown – They have a very impressive “plant-based” vegan menu, with many burgers, bowls, and shareables – like nachos and truffle fries with “varmesan.” Many more menu items can be ordered dairy free, and they have gluten-friendly options.
Boon Burger Cafe ⭐️ – This is a vegan restaurant, serving plant-based alternatives to cheeseburgers, chicken sandwiches, brats, poutine, pizzas, and more. Most items can be ordered gluten-free, too. They also offer some desserts, like soft serve, cookies, and ice cream sandwiches.
Crema di Gelato – They offer a fresh array of dairy-free fruit sorbets, and their very popular dark chocolate flavor.
Goodness Me! – This is a local, full-service, natural grocery store that also has a big supplement section. They offer many dairy alternative products and also have a plethora of other dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan foods available.
Kelly’s Bake Shoppe ⭐️ – It’s all in the family at this vegan, gluten-free, peanut-free, mother-daughter bakery. They make all local favorites, from cupcakes to Nanaimo bars, and deliver throughout the greater Toronto area.
Lettuce Love Cafe ⭐️ – This feel good restaurant offers friendly staff and healthy, all vegan and gluten-free cuisine. They serve a popular array of grain bowls for lunch and dinner, but also have a big menu of sandwiches, burgers, salads, sharables, smoothies, and brunch on weekends. And of course, they offer a full coffee bar and a nice array of dairy-free, egg-free desserts.
The Vegan Pantry ⭐️ – This grab-and-go spot is a full bakery with an array of sweet treats. But they also make pizzas, other hot meals, freezer meals, and deli items. This is their second location. Their original shop is in Barrie.
Turtle Doves – This is a dedicated gluten-free bakery, and all of their muffins, cupcakes, cakes, and non-cheese breads are dairy-free. They also take custom orders.
Union Jack Fish & Chips ⭐️ – Both their regular and their gluten-free batters for their fish and chips (they offer haddock, pollock, halibut, and cod) are dairy-free! All gluten-free orders are cooked in a separate, dedicated fryer.

Cambridge

Beertown – They have a very impressive “plant-based” vegan menu, with many burgers, bowls, and shareables – like nachos and truffle fries with “varmesan.” Many more menu items can be ordered dairy free, and they have gluten-friendly options.
Café du Monde Crêperie – This food truck and cafe offers two types of vegan crepes, classic and gluten-free buckwheat. They also have a gluten-free, vegan waffle options, and plenty of toppings to go around.
Goodness Me! – This is a local, full-service, natural grocery store that also has a big supplement section. They offer many dairy alternative products and also have a plethora of other dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan foods available.
Indulge Ice Cream – They offer dairy-free Dole Whip as a soft serve option. This is a seasonal business.
Little Mushroom Dining Lounge / Market – Their business has transitioned with the times, but they still have craft cocktails on order (which are labeled if vegan), and carry a range of local products, including oatmilk ice cream from local plant-based company Rock Our World Ice Cream Bar. They also make frozen prepared meals with some vegan options.
Nook Vibrant Kitchen ⭐️ – This was once a juice company, but they pivoted to be a local plant-based meal delivery service. Everything they make is free of dairy, egg, gluten, peanut, and refined sugar. They still offer juice cleanses and house-made mylks, but now they also have weekly meal programs where you can choose from a rotating selection of fully-prepared dishes.
Piatto Pizzeria + Enoteca – They have a vegano pizza on the menu and offer dairy-free cheese alternative, so most of their pizzas can be ordered dairy free.
Rio Nectar – They offer dairy-free acai bowls, smoothies, and parfaits. You can also custom order from their salad and sandwich menus.
Sugar Daddies Bakery – This is a keto, sugar-free bakery, and they do use quite a bit of dairy. But they have a handful of dairy-free breads and often have a dairy-free meal or two. They also sell select products in stores.
The Healthy Rabbit – They have a huge dairy-free drink menu, with smoothies, wellness shots, lattes, kombucha on tap, and local beer and cider. They also have a healthy-sized dessert menu that’s all vegan and gluten-free, and mostly raw. Their savory food menu does contain dairy, but there are plenty of dairy-free dishes and options to fulfill.
Zoup – See our Zoup Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.

Collingwood

Dog it Poutine – A reader recommended this local spot, and said their gravy is dairy-free and gluten-free. But they actually offer a wide range of toppings, and also have sausages and vegan dogs.
Gluten Free Me – This is a gluten-free bakery and shop that does sell some dairy-free options.
Press Juice Co. – Their smoothie menu is mostly dairy-free (they do offer whey), and they have a good selection of savory vegan eats, like bowls and sandwiches. They also serve warm drinks like hot cocoa and superfood chai, and make their almond milk in house.
Press Market ⭐️ – This is an organic plant-based restaurant, cafe, and smoothie bar. Their menu includes healthy breakfasts, burgers, sandwiches, salads, and bowls.
Nicky’s Doughnuts & Ice Cream – They have a couple vegan flavors of freshly baked, yeast-rasied doughnuts daily.
Sol Kitchen ⭐️ – They focus on local and organic cuisine, and label their menu for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan guests. They have many dairy-free options, for order or grab-and-go meals, and even offer dariy-free options for paninis and quesadillas.
Summit Social House – This is a bike cafe for coffee and drinks that offers vegan grilled cheese on their main menu, and usually has some vegan and gluten-free treats on hand. They also

Concord

Balzac’s Coffee Roasters – This Ontario coffeehouse chain offers both almond and oat Califia Farms Barista Milks. They also have coconut milk drinks, and use real spices and extracts for flavoring.
Jugo Juice – This Canadian chain blends smoothie with almond milk or coconut water. Just be sure to skip the protein – they use whey. They also serve some wraps and salads that can be ordered dairy free.

Etobicoke

Jugo Juice – This Canadian chain blends smoothie with almond milk or coconut water. Just be sure to skip the protein – they use whey. They also serve some wraps and salads that can be ordered dairy free.

Greater Sudbury

Beards Coffee Bar & Bakery ⭐️ – Thank you to Melissa for recommending Beards Coffee Bar & Bakery to us via Facebook. It appears to be a completely vegan shop! She says she loves their donuts, which they do on Tuesdays and Thursdays. They also rotate croissants, cupcakes, tarts, and cinnamon buns, and bake custom order cakes. We’ve been told gluten-free options are also available.
Flurples ⭐️ – This tiny little vegan ice cream shop is really a walk-up window open seasonally (from late spring to early fall). They have dairy-free soft serve, double scoop cones, sundaes, floats, and shakes, and have a rather selection of sweet toppings.
Tucos Taco Lounge ⭐️ – Thanks again to Melissa! She recommended this all-vegan restaurant and seasonal food truck serving “authentic Mexican cuisine.” Melissa likes the torta best, but she also said the nachos are “out of this world.” They use Daiya for the cheese alternative, and feature all types of vegan proteins, including tempeh and soy chorizo. Their menu is clearly labeled for gluten, too. They are open for lunch and dinner (limited days), and in the warm months, they have outdoor seating available to enjoy a cerveza or margarita al fresco.

Guelph

Balzac’s Coffee Roasters – This Ontario coffeehouse chain offers both almond and oat Califia Farms Barista Milks. They also have coconut milk drinks, and use real spices and extracts for flavoring.
Beertown – They have a very impressive “plant-based” vegan menu, with many burgers, bowls, and shareables – like nachos and truffle fries with “varmesan.” Many more menu items can be ordered dairy free, and they have gluten-friendly options.
Decadently Yours – This is a cupcake shop that offers rotating flavors of vegan and gluten-free cupcakes daily. They also take custom orders for both cakes and cupcakes.
Chocolate Favoris – They offer dairy-free soft serve flavors and frozen dessert bars that can be dipped in vegan dark chocolate. They have some other sweet treat options, too.
Goodness Me! – This is a local, full-service, natural grocery store that also has a big supplement section. They offer many dairy alternative products and also have a plethora of other dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan foods available.
Newton’s No Gluten ⭐️ – This is a gluten-free bakery with a mostly dairy-free and egg-free menu of items. This includes breads, buns, cupcakes, cookies, fruit pies, dinner pies, muffins, dessert bars, and more.
Piatto Pizzeria + Enoteca – They have a vegano pizza on the menu and offer dairy-free cheese alternative, so most of their pizzas can be ordered dairy free.
Rio Nectar – They offer dairy-free acai bowls, smoothies, and parfaits. You can also custom order from their salad and sandwich menus.
The Conscious Kitchen ⭐️ – They offer a vegan meal delivery service in the regional area. Their menu changes weekly.

Hamilton

Chocolat On James – They have some dark chocolate vegan confections, including barks, sponge toffee, peanut butter cups, and oreos.
Coven Market ⭐️ – This is a vegan market and bakery with fresh baked breads and desserts daily, a sandwich counter, and a big selection of specialty foods.
Crumbled – No crumb is wasted at this bakery. They layer crumbled cake in parfait glasses with frosting. They offer a couple vegan varieties, like snickers and cookies & cream.
Darling Donuts – On order, they offer many flavours of vegan or gluten-free and vegan mini donuts.
East Hamilton Cheese Company – This is a dairy cheese shop, but they also carry Green Goddess vegan cheeses with a gourmet selection of flavours.
French Revolution Bakery – Although they do use dairy in many of their baked goods, they reportedly offer dairy-free pies – sweet and savory – including hand pies. They also bake some dairy-free breads, and often have some premade meal options.
Goodness Me! – This is a local, full-service, natural grocery store that also has a big supplement section. They offer many dairy alternative products and also have a plethora of other dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan foods available.
Green Bar ⭐️ – This is a plant based, healthy, quick-service café serving light breakfast, bowls, sandwiches, entrees, desserts, and smoothies. They also serve waffles on the weekends and offer grab-and-go items.
Hambrgr – They focus on local, hormone and antibiotic-free meats, and offer a vegan burger and gluten-free / vegan buns as an option. They also have an array of toppings and sauces with many dairy-free choices.
Marci’s Bakery ⭐️ – This is a vegan, gluten-free, soy-free, and nut-free bakery. In fact, everything Marci bakes is free of the top ten food allergens. They offer online ordering and pick up or shipping, and you might see Marci’s goodies at other shops and restaurants in Southern Ontario. They make all types of breads and sweets.
Morden’s Organic Farm Store – They are located in the Dundas area, and sell wild and organically raised meats that are free range, nitrate-free, gluten-free, and dairy-free. They also sell local produce and locally made products, like gluten-free, dairy-free granola.
Nando’s – Check their nutrition information pdf for allergens and a dairy-free column! They seem to include eggs with dairy, but it is still very helpful. At last check, dairy-free items at Nando’s included most of their chicken (including their famous peri-peri), tons of sauces, a selection of sides, and more. They also have some vegan-friendly items.
Odd Burger ⭐️ – Fast food is the feature at this all-vegan restaurant chain. They serve a “classic” breakfast menu, plus burgers, chickun sandwiches and strips, salads, wraps, and sides (including onion rings!). Their dessert menu boasts soft serve, shakes, cookies, and Nanaimo bars.
Planted in Hamilton ⭐️ – Everything is dairy-free at this plant-based, gluten-free, and kosher restaurant & bakery. They offer a full menu of shareables, bowls, salads, burgers, sandwiches, and entrees, and also serve a decadent dessert menu. On the bakery side, you can order from an array of donuts, cookies, brownies, cakes, and cheesecakes.
Redchurch Cafe & Gallery – You can choose between almond, coconut, soy, and oatmilk for your latte or hot cocoa (yes, it’s dairy free!). And you can enjoy vegan quick bread or energy balls from their bakery selection. On the savory side, they have vegan soup, and a vegan sandwich on the menu, but many more sandwiches can be ordered without dairy.
Soups from Me to You ⭐️ – Their menu is listed by diet type, and they have a section for dairy-free options online. It includes a selection of broths and soups, packaged and ready for pick up, along with various smoked meats. They also list gluten-free, nut-free, and plant-based soups.
Sweet Jesus – One of their core flavors is vegan bounty killah – vegan coconut soft serve with shredded toasted coconut, vegan dark chocolate sauce.
The Burnt Tongue – They’re most known for their soups, and have a few dairy-free options daily.
Trish’s Gluten Free Bakery – Their daily selection includes some dairy-free breads, cookies, turnovers, and a torte. And you can custom order various pastries, cakes, cupcakes, pies, breads, dessert bars, and cookies without dairy, or even vegan.
Union Jack Fish & Chips ⭐️ – Both their regular and their gluten-free batters for their fish and chips (they offer haddock, pollock, halibut, and cod) are dairy-free! All gluten-free orders are cooked in a separate, dedicated fryer.

Kanata

Chocolate Favoris – They offer dairy-free soft serve flavors and frozen dessert bars that can be dipped in vegan dark chocolate. They have some other sweet treat options, too.

Kingston

Balzac’s Coffee Roasters – This Ontario coffeehouse chain offers both almond and oat Califia Farms Barista Milks. They also have coconut milk drinks, and use real spices and extracts for flavoring.
Pizza Studio – Like many places in New Brunswick, they use “lactose-free” instead of “dairy-free,” which is confusing. But they do offer a vegan, dairy-free cheese alternative, and have a range of sauces, toppings, and crusts to choose from. Ask in store for allergy information.

Kitchener

AURA-LA Pastries + Provisions – They always have vegan baked goods and local vegan products. We’ve seen vegan cookies, croissants, pot pies, ice cream, Indian food, cheeses, and more from this shop. This was formerly known as Ambrosia Corner Bakery.
Balzac’s Coffee Roasters – This Ontario coffeehouse chain offers both almond and oat Califia Farms Barista Milks. They also have coconut milk drinks, and use real spices and extracts for flavoring.
Cafe Pyrus – You’ll find a selection of vegan sweets, entrees, breads, coffee drinks, and more treats at this local spot.
Four All Ice Cream Factory – They offer a couple rotating vegan flavors daily. When we looked, they had a creamy chocolate brownie chunk and roasted strawberry & rhubarb sorbet. They are also able to make vegan ice cream cakes.
Ice Cream 2 – They offer dairy-free Dole Whip and typically have a sorbet option, too.
Little Mushroom Kitchen(er) – They are open inside Descendants Brewery, and are serving lunch and dinner with some dairy-free and vegan options.
Moose Winooski’s – This log cabin restaurant was recommended years ago by reader Claire, “We phoned the manager of our local Moose and were assured that our servers would be happy to help, and that the kitchen staff is trained to make substitutions in the case of allergies. They were very helpful in making sure that whatever I ordered was dairy-free.” Fast forward ten years, and they now have a complete plant-based menu with dairy-free sheeze quesadillas, garlic “budder” bread, and many vegan “faux meat” options. Additional items on their menu are naturally dairy-free or can be made dairy-free easily.
Pizza Twist – They have an extensive vegan pizza menu with dairy-free cheese, all types of sauces, and a plethora of dairy-free toppings. Almost any pizza on their menu can be ordered without dairy.
Winnie’s Gluten Free Bakery – They offer a selection of dairy-free items, including some breads, brownies, cinnamon buns, cupcakes, empanadas, frozen meals, and more.

Kleinburg

Balzac’s Coffee Roasters – This Ontario coffeehouse chain offers both almond and oat Califia Farms Barista Milks. They also have coconut milk drinks, and use real spices and extracts for flavoring.

LaSalle

Mary’s Mindful BakeHouse ⭐️ – Everything at Mary’s is free of dairy, gluten, grains, legumes, nightshades, refined sugars, and any funny business. They have a storefront, but also take advance orders. Their menu includes everything from pies to bagels to Nanaimo bars. They also make celebration cakes. This spot was also recommended to us by James.

Leamington

Aziz Fruit Stand & Wooden Spoon Bakery – This local produce stand also houses a sweets bakery and soft serve. Danielle said, “One stop shopping to amazing dairy free items. The donuts are to die for and the vegan soft serve is outstanding.”

London

Beertown – They have a very impressive “plant-based” vegan menu, with many burgers, bowls, and shareables – like nachos and truffle fries with “varmesan.” Many more menu items can be ordered dairy free, and they have gluten-friendly options.
Cinnaholic ⭐️ – This is an all-vegan cinnamon roll bakery. See our Cinnaholic Post for more details.
Odd Burger ⭐️ – Fast food is the feature at this all-vegan restaurant chain. They serve a “classic” breakfast menu, plus burgers, chickun sandwiches and strips, salads, wraps, and sides (including onion rings!). Their dessert menu boasts soft serve, shakes, cookies, and Nanaimo bars.
Pizza Studio – Like many places in New Brunswick, they use “lactose-free” instead of “dairy-free,” which is confusing. But they do offer a vegan, dairy-free cheese alternative, and have a range of sauces, toppings, and crusts to choose from. Ask in store for allergy information.
Plant Matter Cafe ⭐️ – This hip coffeehouse is open during weekday “business hours,” serving an all-vegan food menu of sandwiches, wraps, salads, bowls, and all-day breakfast. Their drink menu has coffeehouse favorites plus healthy shakes, beer, wine, and cider.
Wok Box – This is a fresh Asian chain in Canada that is special diet friendly. They offer an allergen guide with their nutrition information, and naturally, most of their Asian menu is dairy-free. They also label which items can be made vegan and/or gluten-free.

Markham

Nando’s – Check their nutrition information pdf for allergens and a dairy-free column! They seem to include eggs with dairy, but it is still very helpful. At last check, dairy-free items at Nando’s included most of their chicken (including their famous peri-peri), tons of sauces, a selection of sides, and more. They also have some vegan-friendly items.
Pizza Studio – Like many places in New Brunswick, they use “lactose-free” instead of “dairy-free,” which is confusing. But they do offer a vegan, dairy-free cheese alternative, and have a range of sauces, toppings, and crusts to choose from. Ask in store for allergy information.

Meaford

The Frauxmagerie ⭐️ – This is a dairy-free artisan cheesemaker that crafts aged and fresh frauxmage with a base of cashews. They also sell their products in stores.

Mississauga

Basil Box ⭐️ – This is a build-your-own Asian-style bowl chain that clearly labels each component for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan guests. At last check, their entire menu appeared to be gluten-free, and almost everything was dairy-free.
Bloomer’s ⭐️ – Over the years, donuts have become the focal point at this all-vegan bakery. But they also bake bread, bagels, cookies, pies, cinnamon buns, and more, and take custom cake orders for special occasions. And of course, you can grab a barista beverage to go with your pastry.
Dolled Up Cupcakes – This nut-free cupcakery offers vanilla and chocolate dairy-free and gluten-free cupcakes on order (they contain eggs).
Eva’s Original Chimneys ⭐️ – Thanks to Lisa for recommending this shop and restaurant for their vegan-heavy menu. Most of their chimney cakes are vegan, they offer several vegan chimney cone options that can be filled with vegan vanilla soft serve and topped with one of their dairy-free house-made sauces. They also have a full menu of vegan burgers, tacos, and some pizzas.
Fresh ⭐️ – This vegan restaurant chain is Toronto’s plant-based empire, but they also have a location in Mississauga. Their menu offers a big array of healthy cuisine for lunch and dinner, in the form of bowls, salads, burgers, shareables, and more. They also have a big menu of smoothies and juices, coffee drinks, alcoholic beverages, and desserts.
Nando’s – Check their nutrition information pdf for allergens and a dairy-free column! They seem to include eggs with dairy, but it is still very helpful. At last check, dairy-free items at Nando’s included most of their chicken (including their famous peri-peri), tons of sauces, a selection of sides, and more. They also have some vegan-friendly items.
Nourishmoi ⭐️ – This all-vegan restaurant keeps it clean with plant-based salads, sandwiches, bowls, brunch, smoothies, and more. They also shun refined sugars and use whole grains (gluten-free options are available).
Raw Aura Organic Cuisine ⭐️ – This vegan, gluten-free, raw food restaurant was recommended to us by Trudy. Their menu is a healthy spin on comfort food favorites, like ravioli, pizza, nachos, and more.
Raw Blendz – Thank you to Lisa for this recommendation. This is a mostly dairy-free, heavily plant-based restaurant that serves juices, smoothies, savory bowls, wraps, and salads.
Stuffies Pastries – They swirl vegan, soy-based vanilla and matcha soft serve into fish-shaped (taiyaki) gluten-free, vegan waffle cones, which you can garnish with a range of toppings. They offer some vegan and gluten-free savory lunch items, too.
Sweet Jesus – One of their core flavors is vegan bounty killah – vegan coconut soft serve with shredded toasted coconut, vegan dark chocolate sauce.
Zoup – See our Zoup Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.

Nepean

Chocolate Favoris – They offer dairy-free soft serve flavors and frozen dessert bars that can be dipped in vegan dark chocolate. They have some other sweet treat options, too.
Jugo Juice – This Canadian chain blends smoothie with almond milk or coconut water. Just be sure to skip the protein – they use whey. They also serve some wraps and salads that can be ordered dairy free.

Niagara Falls

Balzac’s Coffee Roasters – This Ontario coffeehouse chain offers both almond and oat Califia Farms Barista Milks. They also have coconut milk drinks, and use real spices and extracts for flavoring.
Il Gelato di Carlotta – This is more than an ice cream shop. They do offer dairy-free sorbetto in dark chocolate and a few fruit flavors. And they have vegan caramel topping, vegan cones, and vegan gluten-free cones. But they also offer gluten-free and vegan muffins, have a full coffee bar, and freeze house-made frozen vegan gluten-free lasagna for convenience.
Margaritaville – Jimmy Buffett’s signature restaurant chain borrows some allergy-friendly spirit from his younger sister’s restaurant chain, Lulu’s. Their Gulf Coast cuisine includes lots of seafood, some Caribbean flavors, and many American favorites. They don’t have an allergen guide, but their staff is well trained for food allergic guests, and they are able to easily accommodate dairy-free requests.
Sweet Jesus – One of their core flavors is vegan bounty killah – vegan coconut soft serve with shredded toasted coconut, vegan dark chocolate sauce.
The Kasbah – This Mediterranean restaurant has a big menu, with quite a few vegan options – including appetizers, pizzas, burgers, and dishes like moussaka. Additional menu items are, or can be ordered dairy-free, and they have many gluten-free options.

North York

Grodzinski Bakery – Thank you to Talia for sending this recommendation. “They are nut- free and most of their food is dairy free. (It’s very clearly separated and marked from the few dairy items.)” They bake kosher sweets, savory breads, and make sandwiches, and have vegan options.
Läderach – These Swiss chocolate shops now offer a full dairy-free and vegan line with various dark and cashewmilk chocolate options. The decadent collection includes bars, all types of barks, and some other confections.

Oakville

Basil Box ⭐️ – This is a build-your-own Asian-style bowl chain that clearly labels each component for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan guests. At last check, their entire menu appeared to be gluten-free, and almost everything was dairy-free.
Beertown – They have a very impressive “plant-based” vegan menu, with many burgers, bowls, and shareables – like nachos and truffle fries with “varmesan.” Many more menu items can be ordered dairy free, and they have gluten-friendly options.
Boon Burger Cafe ⭐️ – This is a vegan restaurant, serving plant-based alternatives to cheeseburgers, chicken sandwiches, brats, poutine, pizzas, and more. Most items can be ordered gluten-free, too. They also offer some desserts, like soft serve, cookies, and ice cream sandwiches.
Cinnaholic ⭐️ – This is an all-vegan cinnamon roll bakery. See our Cinnaholic Post for more details.
Il Fornello – They have a smattering of restaurants in the greater Toronto area, all renowned for wood-fired pizza and fine Italian cuisine. They offer a full vegan menu that varies from location to location, but is quite extensive at all. It includes salads, pastas, pizzas with dairy-free cheeses, and desserts. Many more menu items can be made “just dairy-free,” too.
Julia’s Joyful Kitchen ⭐️ – Everything is vegan, gluten-free, soy-free, and refined sugar-free at this healthy bakery. They bake all types of treats, including cookies, brownies, dessert bars, muffins, bagels, breads, cupcakes, and more.
Kerr Street Cafe – Thanks to Ashley for letting us know that this eatery has good dairy-free options. They offer a modern brunch menu for breakfast and lunch hours with vegan options, gluten-free options, and most items are dairy-free or can be ordered without dairy.
Lettuce Love Cafe ⭐️ – This feel good restaurant offers friendly staff and healthy, all vegan and gluten-free cuisine. They serve a popular array of grain bowls for lunch and dinner, but also have a big menu of sandwiches, burgers, salads, sharables, smoothies, and brunch on weekends. And of course, they offer a full coffee bar and a nice array of dairy-free, egg-free desserts.
Moo Free Beverages ⭐️ – They make pure dairy-free milks, but also deliver vegan meals, bakery goods, and pantry items in the local area.
Nyla’s Room / Bliss Gelato – Not only do they make an assortment of fruit sorbets, they also churn rice milk-based, dairy-free gelato in various flavours, like smoothe chocolate, Jamaican coconut, and chocolate hazelnut.
Organic Garage – This is a full-service natural grocery store with many dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan products and brands. They offer dairy alternatives, baked goods, frozen food, and more.
The Flavour Fox – Their waffle cones are dairy-free and nut-free, and they also have gluten-free sugar cones. They typically offer at least one creamy vegan gelato flavour (oat milk based) and several flavours of vegan sorbet.
The Simple Kitchen ⭐️ – This is a gluten-free cafe that’s also mostly dairy-free, and focuses on paleo and keto options. They offer paninis, soups, smoothies, baked treats, a full coffee bar, and more. Thanks to Ashley for the recommendation!

Orleans

Chocolate Favoris – They offer dairy-free soft serve flavors and frozen dessert bars that can be dipped in vegan dark chocolate. They have some other sweet treat options, too.

Oshawa

Jugo Juice – This Canadian chain blends smoothie with almond milk or coconut water. Just be sure to skip the protein – they use whey. They also serve some wraps and salads that can be ordered dairy free.
Pizza Studio – Like many places in New Brunswick, they use “lactose-free” instead of “dairy-free,” which is confusing. But they do offer a vegan, dairy-free cheese alternative, and have a range of sauces, toppings, and crusts to choose from. Ask in store for allergy information.
Wok Box – This is a fresh Asian chain in Canada that is special diet friendly. They offer an allergen guide with their nutrition information, and naturally, most of their Asian menu is dairy-free. They also label which items can be made vegan and/or gluten-free.

Ottawa

Basil Box ⭐️ – This is a build-your-own Asian-style bowl chain that clearly labels each component for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan guests. At last check, their entire menu appeared to be gluten-free, and almost everything was dairy-free.
Black Walnut Bakery – At last check, all of their breads and buns were dairy-free (some contain eggs). They also offer a few flavors of dairy-free muffins that rotate into their schedule (check availability), baked gluten-free vegan power bars, churn vegan ice cream made with coconut milk, and make several dairy-free soups (with vegan options).
Burrito Sensei – This unique poke bowls spot offers a range of raw, cooked, and vegetarian options, with some naturally dairy-free choices. You can choose a bowl or seaweed-wrapped “burrito.”
Capital Cold Press Superfood Juice Bar ⭐️ – As the name implies, this is a cold-pressed juice shop with healthy blends to enjoy. According to the owner, “We are 100% dairy free & vegetarian. We serve smoothies, chia parfaits, smoothie bowls, and cold-pressed juice. We only use oat, coconut, or almond mylk for all recipes.”
Carp Custom Creamery – Their scoop menu usually has at least one creamy vegan flavor, and they pack additional flavors into pints for purchase. The flavors include fruity sorbets and classics like vanilla, chocolate, and chocolate peanut butter.
Chickpeas ⭐️ – They are touted as Ottawa’s first and only vegan hummus and falafel eatery – which is probably true. Their menu centers on hummus plates and falafel pitas, but the also have items like Mediterranean salads.
Chris’s Ice Cream – They pack pints for pick up or delivery, and typically have at least one creamy dairy-free flavour, made with coconut milk.
Cinnaholic ⭐️ – This is an all-vegan cinnamon roll bakery. See our Cinnaholic Post for more details.
Delightful Tastes – This is a nut-free bakery, but they also offer a selection of vegan cakes. They work on custom order.
Holey Confections – Their daily menu includes a selection of yeast-raised vegan donuts. They’re made with cashew milk.
Juice Monkey – All of their smoothies, juices, and lattes are dairy-free. They also have build-your-own protein bowls and tacos with dairy-free and vegan options.
Little Jo Berry’s ⭐️ – This is a vegan bake shop, cafe, and pantry. They offer a whimsical array of sweet pastries and cakes, offer some savory take-home meals and sides, and have a small market of specialty vegan goods.
Moo Shu Ice Cream & Kitchen – They scoop unique vegan flavors like White Chocolate & Strawberry Marble, Dalgona & Coffee, Black Sesame, and “Honey” & Rhubarb, but usually have a classic like Chocolate, too. You can also buy chocolate-dipped vegan ice cream pops.
Nando’s – Check their nutrition information pdf for allergens and a dairy-free column! They seem to include eggs with dairy, but it is still very helpful. At last check, dairy-free items at Nando’s included most of their chicken (including their famous peri-peri), tons of sauces, a selection of sides, and more. They also have some vegan-friendly items.
Oat Couture ⭐️ – Yes, there really is an oatmeal cafe. They use only organic, gluten-free oats, and their menu is labeled for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan options. They have sweet bowls, savoury bowls, overnight oats, baked oats, oat smoothies, granola, and of course, oat milk for your latte (almond and soy milks are available too).
Paradise Poke – Get your Hawaiian fix at this poke shop. Most of their options are naturally dairy-free, including their sauces. They also label vegan options, and have salmon, tuna, shrimp, grilled chicken, organic tofu, and organic beets as protein options to suit a range of diets.
Pi Rho True Food Grill – This is a build your own bowl place with a Mediterranean spin. They have an allergen guide to make ordering easy, and offer a range of dairy-free options for making your own salad or grain bowl. Note that their pita does contain milk. At last check, they had many topping options, and all of their proteins were dairy-free, with some vegan and gluten-free options.
Pure Kitchen – Their vegetarian menu is plant forward, and has vegan options for pretty much everything. They serve appetizers, hot and cold bowls, burgers, sandwiches, and desserts. Enjoy options like poutine with cashew cheese and salads with coconut bacon and seed parmesan. Their menu also includes many gluten-free options.
Strawberry Blonde Bakery ⭐️ – Everything is vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free (they do use coconut) at this local bake shop. They offer a generous menu of breakfast pastries, savory breads and meals, and desserts. They also have a full coffee bar and take custom cake orders.
The Joy of Gluten Free ⭐️ – Most of their breads are dairy-free and they make several dairy-free sweet treats, like carrot cake, various pies, cookies, and dessert bars. They also make some savory dairy-free pot pies.
The Merry Dairy – Despite their name, this ice cream shop does have dairy-free options. They typically have a couple vegan flavors daily, like peach bellini sorbet, chocolate, and creamy mint chip. They can also make dairy-free and vegan ice cream cakes.
Thimblecakes ⭐️ – This pretty little shop specializes in vegan cupcakes, cakes, and a petite selection of other pastries. They also bake custom cakes and make gorgeous wedding cakes, and have gluten-free options available.
Trillium Bakery – This cozy bake shop offers a selection of vegan goodies, including muffins and cookies. They have some additional breads, baked power bars, sweet pies, and dinner pies that are also dairy free.
Voila Gluten Free Bakeree – They offer vegan breads and chocolate cake, but have many more items that are dairy-free or can be custom ordered.
Zak’s Diner – They have vegan shakes in several flavors, each made with a frozen banana base. They also offer dairy-free cheese, so select menu items can be ordered without dairy. At last check, their buns weren’t dairy-free, but you could get a lettuce wrap.

Richmond Hill

Il Fornello – They have a smattering of restaurants in the greater Toronto area, all renowned for wood-fired pizza and fine Italian cuisine. They offer a full vegan menu that varies from location to location, but is quite extensive at all. It includes salads, pastas, pizzas with dairy-free cheeses, and desserts. Many more menu items can be made “just dairy-free,” too.
Nando’s – Check their nutrition information pdf for allergens and a dairy-free column! They seem to include eggs with dairy, but it is still very helpful. At last check, dairy-free items at Nando’s included most of their chicken (including their famous peri-peri), tons of sauces, a selection of sides, and more. They also have some vegan-friendly items.

St. Catharines

Balzac’s Coffee Roasters – This Ontario coffeehouse chain offers both almond and oat Califia Farms Barista Milks. They also have coconut milk drinks, and use real spices and extracts for flavoring.
Beechwood Doughnuts ⭐️ – Forget Tim Horton’s, this local vegan bakery handmakes an array of classic and creative donuts daily.
Hambrgr – They focus on local, hormone and antibiotic-free meats, and offer a vegan burger and gluten-free / vegan buns as an option. They also have an array of toppings and sauces with many dairy-free choices.
Union Jack Fish & Chips ⭐️ – Both their regular and their gluten-free batters for their fish and chips (they offer haddock, pollock, halibut, and cod) are dairy-free! All gluten-free orders are cooked in a separate, dedicated fryer.

Stoney Creek

Truffles & Gelato / Bliss Gelato – Not only do they make an assortment of fruit sorbets, they also churn rice milk-based, dairy-free gelato in various flavours, like smoothe chocolate, Jamaican coconut, and chocolate hazelnut.
Union Jack Fish & Chips ⭐️ – Both their regular and their gluten-free batters for their fish and chips (they offer haddock, pollock, halibut, and cod) are dairy-free! All gluten-free orders are cooked in a separate, dedicated fryer.

Stratford

Balzac’s Coffee Roasters – This Ontario coffeehouse chain offers both almond and oat Califia Farms Barista Milks. They also have coconut milk drinks, and use real spices and extracts for flavoring.

Sturgeon Falls

Chez Jean-Marc Bakery – This is a 100% gluten-free boulangerie that typically offers a big selection of dairy-free baked goodies, too.

Tecumseh

Carrots N’ Dates – This full service restaurant and bake shoppe focuses on whole foods, and offers a heavily vegan menu. They serve brunch, lunch, and dinner, with a great selection of vegan pancakes, toasts, bowls, and more. Their vegan desserts include raw cakes, dessert bars, cookies, and more. They do seem to lump dairy and eggs together with their menu labels, so you have to ask on some items if just dairy free.
Slinky’s Ice Cream – They have two flavors of dairy-free Dole Whip daily (the options rotate), and they pack them into grab-and-go pints – so there are often more flavors available.

Thornbury

Pom Pom ⭐️ – This small-batch, plant-based ice cream company runs a seasonal scoop shop. Their flavors rotate, but always include a good selection of classics and creative flavors.

Thornhill

Grodzinski Bakery – Thank you to Talia for sending this recommendation. “They are nut- free and most of their food is dairy free. (It’s very clearly separated and marked from the few dairy items.)” They bake kosher sweets, savory breads, and make sandwiches, and have vegan options.

Toronto

Aish Tanoor ⭐️ – This Middle Eastern restaurant is a kosher meat establishment, so there should be no dairy on the premises. They offer a big menu of sandwiches, salads, schnitzel, and more.
Almond Butterfly ⭐️ – This is a gluten-free bistro and bake shop that’s extremely special diet friendly. Most of their brunch, lunch, and dinner menus can be ordered dairy-free, and they have many vegan options. And at last check, all of their baked goodies were dairy-free – including cupcakes, cookies, muffins, cinnamon buns, and more. Their bakery includes vegan options, too.
Ba-Li Laffa ⭐️ – This is a kosher glatt restaurant, so their entire menu is dairy-free. They serve a Mediterranean menu with a big array of starters, salads, sandwiches, and other entrees.
Balzac’s Coffee Roasters – This Ontario coffeehouse chain offers both almond and oat Califia Farms Barista Milks. They also have coconut milk drinks, and use real spices and extracts for flavoring.
Bang Bang Ice Cream & Bakery – They offer a few flavors of vegan ice cream daily, typically a sorbet and a couple creamy flavors made with coconut milk. They also bake a couple vegan and gluten-free cookie varieties for making ice cream sandwiches.
Basil Box ⭐️ – This is a build-your-own Asian-style bowl chain that clearly labels each component for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan guests. At last check, their entire menu appeared to be gluten-free, and almost everything was dairy-free.
Beertown – They have a very impressive “plant-based” vegan menu, with many burgers, bowls, and shareables – like nachos and truffle fries with “varmesan.” Many more menu items can be ordered dairy free, and they have gluten-friendly options.
Bindia Indian Bistro – Free from icons can be found on their menu for top allergens, gluten, and vegan diets. Their dairy-free items include some appetizers and a large selection of main dishes.
Bistro Grande ⭐️ – Their menu is labeled for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan guests. Their dairy-free options are plentiful, with some starters, salads, paninis, pastas, and fish and chips on their main menu. They also serve a couple dairy-free brunch options, but their dessert menu is off limits for dairy-free guests.
Bloomer’s ⭐️ – Over the years, donuts have become the focal point at this all-vegan bakery. But they also bake bread, bagels, cookies, pies, cinnamon buns, and more, and take custom cake orders for special occasions. And of course, you can grab a barista beverage to go with your pastry. They have two locations in Toronto.
Bloom Sushi ⭐️ – You won’t find any fish at this vegan sushi chain. Their petite menu includes a selection of maki, and starters like miso soup and gyoza.
Booyah – They offer a menu of vegan cashew-based ice cream flavors, along with a couple of sorbets. They also offer vegan cookies for ice cream sandwiches.
Bunner’s Bakeshop ⭐️ – Cupcakes, cheesecakes, cinnamon buns, breads, pot pies … you can fulfill nearly every baked craving at this popular vegan and gluten-free bakery. And you won’t feel like you are missing out. They were once voted the best bakery in Toronto.
Churnt Up – Their flavors rotate weekly, but they usually have at least one dairy-free option. When we looked, it was double chocolate.
Cinnaholic ⭐️ – This is an all-vegan cinnamon roll bakery. See our Cinnaholic Post for more details.
Cock-A-Doodle-Doo Gluten-Free Bakeshop ⭐️ – Their entire bakery is dairy-free, gluten-free, soy-free, and corn-free, and they have many egg-free and vegan options. They bake all types of cookies, dessert bars, muffins, cakes, pies, and more.
Coco Market – They scoop “better-for-you” vegan gelato and offer a big selection of dairy-free snacks and pantry supplies, along with vegan, gluten-free, and paleo options.
Delight Organic Fair Trade Chocolate ⭐️ – They offer a few dairy-free chocolates churn a selection of dairy-free ice creams, with flavors like chocolate peanut butter chip, vanilla coconut, wild blueberry, and mocha latte. They offer scoops seasonally, and also pack the flavors into pints. They also make vegan, gluten-free coconut cones.
Dr. Laffa – This local Mediterranean chain isn’t dairy-free, but they do offer a good dairy-free selection of menu items, and even some options from their bakery.
Easy Restaurant – This retro diner serves all-day breakfast and lunch with classic American and some Mexican-inspired dishes. They offer dairy-free and vegan quesadillas using Wandering Deli mozza, dairy-free smoothies, and are friendly to dairy-free and gluten-free guests with custom orders.
Electric Love Bakeshop ⭐️ – This is a kosher pareve bakery, so everything is dairy-free. They offer an array of cakes, cupcakes, cookies, pies, challah, and more. They also have vegan and gluten-free options.
Eva’s Original Chimneys ⭐️ – Thanks to Lisa for recommending this shop and restaurant for their vegan-heavy menu. Most of their chimney cakes are vegan, they offer several vegan chimney cone options that can be filled with vegan vanilla soft serve and topped with one of their dairy-free house-made sauces. They also have a full menu of vegan burgers, tacos, and some pizzas.
Famoso – This is a small Canadian pizza chain that offers Daiya dairy-free cheese alternative at no extra charge, and has plant-based pizzas (like pepperoni) on the menu. They’re made with a neapolitan crust, rossa sauce, and vegan cheese.
Fearless Meat – You can order a dairy-free burger or a vegan burger at this fast food spot. They also swirl dairy-free Dole Whip soft serve.
Fit Organix ⭐️ – This is a meal delivery service offering a vegan meal plan and a “regular” meal plan that contains meat and eggs, but is still free from gluten, dairy, corn, soy, shellfish, pork and peanuts.
Flock Rotisserie – They use special diet icons, like dairy-free and gluten-free. They do have some dairy-free items as is, like their chicken and a couple sides. But you can also custom order a few of their boxes without dairy.
Fresh ⭐️ – This vegan restaurant chain is Toronto’s plant-based empire. They have multiple locations around the city, a smattering in other Ontario cities, and even a presence in the U.S. Their menu offers a big array of healthy cuisine for lunch and dinner, in the form of bowls, salads, burgers, shareables, and more. They also have a big menu of smoothies and juices, coffee drinks, alcoholic beverages, and desserts.
Gemaro Bakery ⭐️ – This is a dairy-free, gluten-free, nut-free shop that offers an array of breads, frozen meals to go, sweet baked goods, and even gelato. They offer dishes like lasagna, pot pies, spanakopita, pizzas, and more, for you to heat and eat.
Gia – This “plant forward” Italian restaurant is mostly dairy-free and vegan. Their elevated menus include a selection of small plates in addition to some unique mains, like spaghetti funghi with truffle butter and cashew ricotta and risotto Milanese with saffron and anise.
Goodbye Gluten ⭐️ – This bakery, kitchen, and grocery store is strictly gluten-free, and everything they make in house is nut-free, too. All of their baked goods are also dairy-free (with many vegan options), and their grab and go, freshly prepared meals are labeled with dairy-free and vegan choices. Paleo and keto customers will also find some items to choose from.
Good Rebel Vegan Provisions ⭐️ – This isn’t a big store, but they pack a mighty selection of dairy-free items, including various dairy alternatives, with various pantry, refrigerated, and frozen products.
Grandmama’s Waffles – Their menu includes a few flavors of vegan and gluten-free coconut cream waffles. You can also order vegan waffle sandwiches with their vegan soft serve or house coconut milk ice cream.
Hello123 ⭐️ – If you’re in the West Queen West neighborhood, then you might want to pop into this completely vegan restaurant and bar. They boast eclectic comfort food menus for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch in a modern but cozy atmosphere. They also have a decadent dessert menu (including dairy-free cheesecakes!) and a big drink menu o house cocktails, vegan wines, draught beer and cider, kombucha, fresh-squeezed juices, superfood coffee lattes, and more.
Hielito Bits – This is a paleta – or Mexican popsicle – shop, with a big selection of dairy-free flavors. The flavors include options like pina colada, mango chile, and lime.
Honey Bee Meals ⭐️ – This meal delivery service is exclusively gluten, nut, soy, dairy and refined sugar free, and they have vegan options. You can order individual meals or meal plans.
Howie T’s Burger Bar ⭐️ – This kosher glatt burger joint is dairy-free, right down to the pareve cheese on some of their burgers. They also serve chicken sandwiches, chicken fingers, franks, and fries.
Il Fornello – They have a smattering of restaurants in the greater Toronto area, all renowned for wood-fired pizza and fine Italian cuisine. They offer a full vegan menu that varies from location to location, but is quite extensive at all. It includes salads, pastas, pizzas with dairy-free cheeses, and desserts. Many more menu items can be made “just dairy-free,” too.
Impact Kitchen ⭐️ – This is a gluten-free eatery with dairy-free, vegan, and paleo options – but please note that some of their paleo items contain butter (as noted). For dairy-free guests, they have toasts, some brunch items, a big selection of bowls, soups and stews, and several baked goodies. They also sell grab-and-go chia pudding, collagen pudding, pickled items, soups, and more.
Jugo Juice – This Canadian chain blends smoothie with almond milk or coconut water. Just be sure to skip the protein – they use whey. They also serve some wraps and salads that can be ordered dairy free.
Karine’s ⭐️ – Breakfast all day, sandwiches, and Middle Eastern sides are specialties at this counter-serve spot. They offer a full vegan menu and many gluten-free options. But the real treat is the array of vegan and gluten-free goodies baked fresh daily on the premises. They are all dairy free, wheat free, and egg-free, and often made with local and organic ingredients.
Kensington Natural Bakery ⭐️ – This is a vegan bakery that also offers juices and pre-made meals to go. Their bakery menu includes croissants, cookies, pies, danishes, cakes, and much more. They also have gluten-free options.
Kupfert & Kim ⭐️ – This is a “wheatless and meatless” plant-based cafe with locations around the city. They offer brunch and lunch, and dinner, depending on the location. Their menu includes an array of toasts, bowls, waffles, smoothies, smoothie bowls, coffee and tea drinks, and sweet treats.
Läderach – These Swiss chocolate shops now offer a full dairy-free and vegan line with various dark and cashewmilk chocolate options. The decadent collection includes bars, all types of barks, and some other confections.
Lady Marmalade – Thanks to Chantele for recommending this breakfast and lunch spot. “Great menu! It has a ton of vegan options and vegetarian options. Plus, they will substitute ANYTHING, even during busy hours.” They also have gluten-ree options available.
Lebanese Garden ⭐️ – Their menu is labeled with dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan icons, and almost everything is dairy-free, including the desserts!
Loaded Pierogi – Their menu is dairy loaded, but the pierogis themselves are dairy-free, so you can custom order your toppings.
Lollicakes ⭐️ – This certified kosher bakery is peanut and tree nut-free and offers a big selection of dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan cakes, cupcakes, and other pastries.
LOV ⭐️ – This pretty cafe chain offers a fresh all-vegan menu. It includes a diverse array of starters and entrees, ranging from mushroom risotto with cashew cream to king fu burgers with miso coleslaw.
Machino Donuts ⭐️ – This is a strictly vegan donut shop. They have several flavors of classic, filled, and specialty donuts daily.
Magic Oven – They offer prepared meals for pick-up, delivery, and at local farmer’s markets. Their menus boast fresh ingredients and include many dairy-free, vegan, plant-based, and gluten-free options.
Marron Bistro ⭐️ – This is a fine dining, kosher meat, dairy-free restaurant. Their menu includes a selection of unique appetizers and flavorful beef, chicken, lamb, and seafood centered mains.
M!LK Vegan Gelato ⭐️ – Their scoops are made with a base of oat and coconut milks, and come in a range of rotating flavors. They offer more than a dozen flavors daily, with a mix of classic, refreshing, and uniquely indulgent options. It’s located next to the vegan Pizzeria Du, so you can enjoy a cone after you have a slice!
North of Bombay ⭐️ – They label their menu for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan customers at this Indian restaurant, and close to half of their dishes are dairy free.
Odd Burger ⭐️ – Fast food is the feature at this all-vegan restaurant chain. They serve a “classic” breakfast menu, plus burgers, chickun sandwiches and strips, salads, wraps, and sides (including onion rings!). Their dessert menu boasts soft serve, shakes, cookies, and Nanaimo bars.
Off the Hook – They reportedly offer a range of dairy-free, gluten-free fish and chips (to order) and have many vegan items on their menu, including “fish” and chips, burritos, and poutine.
On Third Thought ⭐️ – This all-vegan gelato and wine shop serves 8 to 13 vegan gelato flavors daily, with options ranging from innocent Strawberry Shortcake and Chocolate Peanot Butter (made with Sunbutter) to indulgent Sangria and Pina Colada. They also sell vegan wines by the bottle (yes, wine can contain dairy!).
Organic Garage – This is a full-service natural grocery store with many dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan products and brands. They offer dairy alternatives, baked goods, frozen food, and more.
Nanashake ⭐️ – Everything at this cool vegan nice cream shop is dairy-free, including sundaes, shakes, freezer pops, and nanacakes. Many gluten-free topping options are also available.
Nando’s – Check their nutrition information pdf for allergens and a dairy-free column! They seem to include eggs with dairy, but it is still very helpful. At last check, dairy-free items at Nando’s included most of their chicken (including their famous peri-peri), tons of sauces, a selection of sides, and more. They also have some vegan-friendly items.
Nani’s Gelato – They typically offer a dairy-free sorbetto and a creamy dairy-free coconut milk-based gelato among their flavors.
PAI – The chefs at this Thai restaurant note note which items contain dairy, or other top allergens, on the menu. As you might expect, most items are dairy-free, and they even have a couple dessert options. They also note which items can be ordered gluten-free and have a separate vegan menu.
Pizza Studio – Like many places in New Brunswick, they use “lactose-free” instead of “dairy-free,” which is confusing. But they do offer a vegan, dairy-free cheese alternative, and have a range of sauces, toppings, and crusts to choose from. Ask in store for allergy information.
Pizzeria Du ⭐️ – Their all-vegan pizza menu includes a selection of classic and gourmet toppings. They also make their own dairy-free cheeses and ranch dressing.
Planta ⭐️ – Despite the meaty names on the menu, everything at this Toronto restaurant chain is plant-based, dairy-free, and vegan. They bridge gourmet and casual in their unique restaurants across town, including Planta Yorkville, Queen, Cocina, and Burger.
Prime on Avenue ⭐️ – This fine dining steakhouse is a glatt kosher restaurant, so their menu is dairy-free. It includes a big range of meat and seafood entrees.
Sheli’s Burgers and Fried Chicken ⭐️ – Believe it or not, this comfort food restaurant is kosher and dairy free. They serve burgers, with or without dairy-free cheese, chicken sandwiches, tacos, fries, onion rings, and of course, fried chicken pieces, wings, and tenders. They also have classic dairy-free ice cream and shakes for dessert.
Soma Chocolatemaker – At each of their locations, they offer a selection of dairy-free chocolate bars and confections.
Stuffies Pastries – They swirl vegan, soy-based vanilla and matcha soft serve into fish-shaped (taiyaki) gluten-free, vegan waffle cones, which you can garnish with a range of toppings. They offer some vegan and gluten-free savory lunch items, too.
Sweet Jesus – One of their core flavors is vegan bounty killah – vegan coconut soft serve with shredded toasted coconut, vegan dark chocolate sauce.
Sweets from the Earth ⭐️ – This vegan bakery actually keeps two separate baking facilities one that is nut-free and one that is gluten-free. Their goodies include cakes, cheesecakes, cookies, cookie dough, and more. They mostly package their goodies and sell them online and in stores, but also have a bakery outlet, where you can walk in and shop.
The Belgian Chocolate Shop – They aren’t a dairy-free establishment, but do offer a good size selection of dairy-free chocolates, along with custom order packages and seasonal treats.
The Bread Essentials – This bakery is certified gluten-free and they’re also nut-free. They have many dairy-free options, though they aren’t clearly labeled – just ask. This includes breads, pastries, and some vegan items.
The Chicken Nest ⭐️ – This is a glatt kosher restaurant, so their entire menu is dairy free. They serve a huge eclectic menu with Asian, Middle Eastern, and American fare.
The Paleo Palate Cafe – Unfortunately, they use ghee in most of their baked goods. But they do offer a vegan focaccia and a few vegan chocolate treats on their menu, which are made without dairy.
The Simple Kitchen ⭐️ – Their menu is mostly dairy-free and gluten-free, with many options for paleo and keto customers. They serve waffles and toasts for all day breakfast, grain-free baked goodies, lattes, smoothies, superfood bowls, and other items on special, like paninis with cashew cheese. They also sell a range of special diet-friendly pantry items.
Three Sisters Cafe – Their daily menu caters to special diet customers, and includes a full vegan menu with cashew quiches, samosas, oatmeal, smoothies, and all types of pastries. They also have gluten-free and keto options, and have some additional dairy-free items beyond the vegan menu.
Tori’s Bakeshop ⭐️ – They opened in 2012 as Toronto’s first plant-based cafe. Their menu includes various pastries and cakes, and they do have gluten-free options.
Touti Cafe – Only the sorbetto is dairy-free at this gelato shop, but they always have several flavors to choose from.
Umami Sushi ⭐️ – Sure, there are a lot of dairy-free options at sushi restaurants, but not many are completely dairy-free, like this one. Their menu includes a big selection of sushi, build-your-own poke bowls, and noodle dishes, for guests who prefer cooked items.
Vegan Danish Bakery ⭐️ – This pretty shop offers a range of vegan pastries daily, along with coffee, tea, a full ice cream sundae menu, and sandwiches for lunch. They also bake custom order cakes and cheesecakes.
Wandering Deli ⭐️ – This is an artisan dairy-free cheese shop. They offer an array of havartis, mozzas, and more.
Whisked Gluten-Free Bakery ⭐️ – Everything they bake is free of gluten, peanuts, tree nuts, and soy. They also offer a good dairy-free selection, with breads, muffins, cinnamon buns, cookies, cakes, and more. Egg-free and vegan options are also available.
XO Gelato – They offer a big selection of dairy-free sorbets daily, including several fruit varieties and often chocolate.
Zoup – See our Zoup Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.

Vaughan

Chocolate Favoris – They offer dairy-free soft serve flavors and frozen dessert bars that can be dipped in vegan dark chocolate. They have some other sweet treat options, too.
Il Gelato di Carlotta – This is more than an ice cream shop. They do offer dairy-free sorbetto in dark chocolate and a few fruit flavors. And they have vegan caramel topping, vegan cones, and vegan gluten-free cones. But they also offer gluten-free and vegan muffins, have a full coffee bar, and freeze house-made frozen vegan gluten-free lasagna for convenience.
Odd Burger ⭐️ – Fast food is the feature at this all-vegan restaurant chain. They serve a “classic” breakfast menu, plus burgers, chickun sandwiches and strips, salads, wraps, and sides (including onion rings!). Their dessert menu boasts soft serve, shakes, cookies, and Nanaimo bars.
OraCakes –⭐️ This shop makes raw, vegan, gluten free, and soy free cheesecakes with whole foods. They’re sold as single-serves (muffin cup sizes) in a range of flavors. They don’t have a storefront, but offer order and pick up.
Organic Garage – This is a full-service natural grocery store with many dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan products and brands. They offer dairy alternatives, baked goods, frozen food, and more.
Stuffies Pastries – They swirl vegan, soy-based vanilla and matcha soft serve into fish-shaped (taiyaki) gluten-free, vegan waffle cones, which you can garnish with a range of toppings. They offer some vegan and gluten-free savory lunch items, too.

Waterdown

Bliss Kitchen ⭐️ – Everything they make is vegan, gluten-free, soy-free, and corn-free. Their menu centers on healthy bowls, tacos, burgers, and loaded fries. But they also offer smoothies, smoothie bowls, coffee drinks, and desserts.
Goodness Me! – This is a local, full-service, natural grocery store that also has a big supplement section. They offer many dairy alternative products and also have a plethora of other dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan foods available.

Waterloo

Beertown – They have a very impressive “plant-based” vegan menu, with many burgers, bowls, and shareables – like nachos and truffle fries with “varmesan.” Many more menu items can be ordered dairy free, and they have gluten-friendly options.
CE Food Experience ⭐️ – This artisan bakery is very friendly to special diets. They clearly label dairy-free, gluten-free, egg-free, and vegan baked goods, and have many options for everyone. In fact, most of their menu is dairy-free, and a good portion is vegan and/or gluten-free. They offer breads, all types of sweets, and some savory dishes, like pot pies.
Famoso – This is a small Canadian pizza chain that offers Daiya dairy-free cheese alternative at no extra charge, and has plant-based pizzas (like pepperoni) on the menu. They’re made with a neapolitan crust, rossa sauce, and vegan cheese.
Four All Ice Cream – They offer a couple rotating vegan flavors daily. When we looked, they had a creamy chocolate brownie chunk and roasted strawberry & rhubarb sorbet. They are also able to make vegan ice cream cakes.
Goodness Me! – This is a local, full-service, natural grocery store that also has a big supplement section. They offer many dairy alternative products and also have a plethora of other dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan foods available.
Odd Burger ⭐️ – Fast food is the feature at this all-vegan restaurant chain. They serve a “classic” breakfast menu, plus burgers, chickun sandwiches and strips, salads, wraps, and sides (including onion rings!). Their dessert menu boasts soft serve, shakes, cookies, and Nanaimo bars.

Windsor

Forgot the Flour – They don’t have a storefront, but they offer order and pick up. Everything is gluten-free and they have quite a few dairy-free options, plus a whole menu of vegan sweets – including cheesecake!
Healthy Creations – Though they don’t label for it, this gluten-free bakery offers many dairy-free products. Most of their breads and buns are dairy-free, and they have some dairy-free scones, cakes, cupcakes, cake pops, sweet loaves, cookies, biscotti, and more. Many of their items do use eggs, but they offer vegan options in just about every baked good category.
Healthy Mama ⭐️ – This is a vegan whole food restaurant with many raw options. Their menu is filled with nutritious burgers, bowls, mac and cheeses, smoothies, lattes, and desserts.
Odd Burger ⭐️ – Fast food is the feature at this all-vegan restaurant chain. They serve a “classic” breakfast menu, plus burgers, chickun sandwiches and strips, salads, wraps, and sides (including onion rings!). Their dessert menu boasts soft serve, shakes, cookies, and Nanaimo bars.
Plant Joy ⭐️ – This all vegan donut shop offers a daily array of decadent flavours, and even more that you can order ahead for pick up.
Taloola Cafe – Their smoothie menu is surprisingly dairy-heavy, but they have some savory dairy-free and vegan options on their breakfast and lunch menu.
The Vegan Gardiners ⭐️ – This is Windsor’s first plant-based deli. They make their own artisanal vegan cheeses, meats, and mylks.

Photo from Oat Couture in Ottawa

Restaurant & Grocery Chains found throughout Ontario

Some recommended restaurant and store chains are getting too big for our city listing britches. They have many locations, or are rapidly growing, and you might stumble across them in a number of towns in this state. Click on them for more dairy-free details.

Beavertails – These artisanal Canadian pastries are made with whole wheat flour, hand-stretched, and fried. They can be ordered dairy-free and vegan on request.
Copper Branch ⭐️ – This is a vegan restaurant chain that serves power bowls, burgers, sandwiches, soups, all-day breakfast (gluten-free bagel sandwiches are a feature), smoothies, coffee drinks, and desserts.
Freshii – This chain serves bowls, salads, wraps, and smoothies. They offer a detailed allergen menu, and each menu category has at least one or two dairy-free options, ordered as is. But most items can be ordered without dairy easily, since all of their bases, proteins, broths, and toppings (aside from cheese) are made without milk (at the time of our review). Just verify the sauces, as a few contain milk-based ingredients.
Kelsey’s Original Roadhouse – Skip the appetizers and jump straight to the wings, burgers, and fish and chips. They have several menu and custom options available in these categories, and also have dairy-free, gluten-free buns available.
La Diperie – You’ll have to resist many of their desserts, but you’ll be rewarded with their edible vegan cookie dough. It’s available in four flavours. They often have at least one vegan soft serve flavour and a couple other cool dairy-free treats, too.
MELTwich – This grilled cheese chain has a full plant-based menu. It includes a few vegan melts, the Impossible burger, and a couple poutines. Additional menu items can be custom ordered dairy-free, including burgers, bowls, and additional toppings on vegan grilled cheeses and poutines.
Panago Pizza – See our Panago Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Pizzaiolo – You’ll only find this pizza chain in Ontario, but they have a lot of them! And you won’t want to miss their vegan menu. It includes some unique plant-based creations, some made with dairy-free cheese and some made cheese-free. You can also build-your-own dairy-free pizza, and even get a dairy-free and gluten-free pizza crust (contains eggs). This is a 100% nut-free restaurant chain, too.
Pizza Nova – It has Italian roots, but this pizza chain is firmly planted in the greater Toronto area with about 140 locations. They have a plant-based pepperoni menu, and offer Daiya dairy-free cheese as an option for all of their pizzas and panzerottis (like calzones). Their classic pizza dough and sauce and gluten-free dough is dairy-free and vegan. They also have a very detailed allergen chart available.
Pizza Pizza – See our Pizza Pizza Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Pizzaville – All of their crusts (including gluten-free) and their classic pizza sauce are dairy-free, and they offer a dairy-free mozzarella cheese for pizzas. They have some additional dairy-free menu items, which you can discover with their detailed allergen chart.
Quesada – They offer a great allergen and special diet filter online to help plan your order. This is a build-your-own burrito, burrito bowl, or taco spot. At last check, their meats and meat alternatives were dairy free (the fish items contain dairy), as were both types of beans, rice, and all toppings, except cheese and sour cream. All of their salsas, guacamole, and most of their sauces are also dairy-free, and they even have a special vegan sauce.
Red Swan Pizza – They offer vegan cheese, which you can order on their traditional, thin, or regular gluten-free crust. Their classic pizza sauce, a few other sauces, and their veggie toppings are dairy-free. They offer a plethora of protein options, so be sure to reference their allergen guide carefully. They also have dry ribs, chicken bites, wings, and potato wedges available without dairy.
St. Louis Bar & Grill – Enjoy custom order salads and bar bites, including their famous wings with a large selection of sauces. Their allergen menu is well detailed and helpful for custom ordering.
Swiss Chalet – See our Swiss Chalet Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
The Chopped Leaf – They offer a big menu of hand-crafted salads, grain bowls, wraps, sandwiches, soups, and more. They clearly indicate allergens, and even indicate dairy-free options. They have a good selection for dairy-free, gluten-free, and even vegan guests, plus build your own choices.
The Works Craft Burgers & Beer – This Ontario chain offers a detailed allergen menu that makes custom ordering easy. At last check, all of their buns are dairy-free, including a gluten-free and a vegan option. All patties are also dairy-free, except for the cheese-stuffed one. And they offer a good selection of dairy-free sauces, classic toppings (you do have to ask on these), and sides.

Photo from Union Jack Fish & Chips in Burlington, Hamilton, St. Catharines, and Stoney Creek

Local Dairy-Free Food & Drink Producers in Ontario

These dairy-free friendly companies don’t have their own retail location, but are in Ontario. So you have a good chance of finding their products at grocery stores, restaurants, and/or other shops in this state. Keep an eye out!

Chocosol – This is a completely vegan, bean-to-bar chocolatier. They offer a range of chocolate bars, drinking chocolate, and more.
Culcherd – They make a unique range of dairy-free, plant-based butters and cheese alternatives.
Eastend Vegan – Their dairy-free nut cheezes are packaged in jars, and are sold in a selection of flavors.
Gay Lea Foods – Though owned by a dairy company, they make a popular dairy-free coconut spray whip that’s sold refrigerated.
NAGI – This is the polish word for “naked” and the name of an Ontario-based vegan snack bar company.
Pasta Tavola – They make dairy-free pasta sauces and they also make both dairy-filled and plant-based raviolis. Be sure to pick up the plant-based / dairy-free ones if looking.
Sweets from the Earth – This vegan bakery actually keeps two separate baking facilities one that is nut-free and one that is gluten-free. Their goodies include cakes, cheesecakes, cookies, cookie dough, and more.
Two Bears – This dairy-free, gluten-free oat milk company also makes canned lattes for grab and go.
Vegan Stokes Cheese – They make a selection of dairy-free hard cheeses and cheese spreads, which you can buy online or at local specialty shops.
VegCheese – Want to make poutine at home? This artisanal dairy-free cheese company makes vegan cheese curds. They also make some other soy-based cheeses.
Yellofruit – They use bananas for the base of their dairy-free frozen dessert pints. They do ship nationwide, but you’ll find them more easily in Ontario.
Yoso – This dairy-free yogurt company started with soy-based products. But now they have soy, oat, coconut, and almond/cashew yogurts.

Photo from Vegan Stokes Cheese

This Guide is Continuously Updated with Recommendations

We welcome you to recommend other dairy-free friendly restaurants. Leave a comment or contact us and tell us why you like a certain restaurant. Restaurant owners and employees are also invited to reach out and let us know how you welcome dairy-free customers.

Please kindly let us know in the comments if any of these restaurants close. We want to keep this list current for you, but aren’t always notified when a restaurant closes. Let us know and we will quickly update!

This Guide is for Informational Purposes Only

Menus, ingredients, kitchen procedures, management, and restaurants are subject to change at any time. Always read the menu and discuss your dietary needs with the staff before ordering. Make sure that they can accommodate your situation.

There is always a risk for potential cross-contamination of allergens in any commercial kitchen. If cross-contamination is an issue for you, always speak with the manager to ensure that your meal can be safely prepared. Listings here do not guarantee that a restaurant is safe enough for your individual needs. Only you can make that decision.