Florida: A Melting Pot of Dairy-Free Dining Options

Last Update in July 2021! Sun and sea dominate the scene in sizzling Florida. And unlike neighboring states, they also have strong Caribbean and Cuban influences in their cuisine. This brings a new range of dairy-free flavors to the table at many local dining spots. That’s why we’ve been able to create this ever-growing guide to restaurants, cafes, bakeries, and ice cream shops in Florida that are friendly to dairy-free diners. It’s a collection based on research and reader recommendations (send yours!), that’s divided into local restaurants (first) and chains (second).

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

This photo and feature photo from Parlour Vegan Bakery.

Local Florida Restaurants Recommended for Dairy-Free Eats

Florida’s unique location makes it a hotbed for diverse cuisine. Flavors from the South, Europe, Cuba, and the rest of the Caribbean descend on this sunny peninsula. This has resulted in copious amounts of barbecue along with salsa, jerk, and blackened preparations (beware of butter in the latter seasonings).

Sandwiches are big in Florida, and they’re often on Cuban breads. Many are made with lard or shortening, instead of butter, but be sure to ask. Other popular Latin influences that you can frequently find without dairy include arroz con pollo, perro caliente, causas, tostones, cheese-less empanadas, cheese-less arepas, and frijoles negro.

As for local ingredients, you’ll want to keep an eye out for freshly caught fish, like grouper, mahi mahi, and snapper, and shellfish, like stone crabs and oysters. It isn’t too hard to find ceviche or other naturally dairy-free preparations. (Don’t worry, leche de tigre is a classic citrus ceviche marinade – not dairy milk!) And be sure to savor those fresh Florida oranges and kumquats, as juice, in smoothies, or on their own!

The following Florida restaurants go above and beyond with unique dairy-free options and/or allergy-friendly service. We’ve listed these recommendations alphabetically by city, and then by the restaurant or shop name.

⭐️ = 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.)

Aventura

• Bartaco – Their allergen menu is so detailed, that it states exactly what in the item contains the allergen. And their dairy-free options are abundant. Most of their tacos, rice bowls, other entrees, and sides are, or can be ordered, dairy-free. But the dessert and kids menus are heavy in dairy.
• Chill-N Nitrogen Ice Cream – This Florida, made-to-order ice cream chain now offers three dairy-free and vegan-friendly bases: oat milk, almond milk, and coconut milk. Many of their flavors and mix-ins are also dairy-free.
• Holy Schnitzel ⭐️ – This is a kosher glatt chain, so their entire menu is dairy-free. And it’s a very big menu, with all types of starters, burgers, wraps, sandwiches, salads, and sides.
• Milk Gone Nuts ⭐️ – This dairy-free milk bar crafts an array of raw, organic, nut “milques” that you can sip on, order as chocolate milk, or enjoy in vegan milkshakes or smoothies. They also serve fresh-pressed juices, coffee drinks, salads, pitas, soups, and healthy breakfasts. To top it off, they offer house made artisan popsicles, dairy-free soft serve, and gluten-free, vegan ice cream sandwiches.

Boca Raton

• Aloha Poke Co – They’re great about sharing allergy, gluten, and vegan info at this midwest poke chain. Most of their menu is dairy-free, but they state that their yuzu ranch sauce, “crunch” fried onions, and furikake seasoning to contain milk. They do have vegan and gluten-free sauce and topping options, too.
• Burtons Grill – This upscale bar and grill boasts classic American dishes with fresh ingredients and a touch of global flair. Year after year, they’re top rated as an allergy-friendly restaurant. They follow strict allergy protocols, have well-trained staff, and even attentive to allergies with their online ordering and takeout.
• Parlour Vegan Bakery ⭐️ – Sweet and savory cravings are covered at this dairy-free, egg-free, meat-free shop. They make their own empanadas, pastelitos, and popular local sandwiches, like the Cubano. For dessert you can choose from a huge array of cookies, cupcakes, donuts, and more. They also have a menu of coffee drinks and do bake stunning cakes for custom orders.
• The Poké Company ⭐️ – The food menu at this poke bowl and sushi burrito shop is dairy-free and nut-free. They also offer cauliflower rice for grain-free and paleo guests, label their sauces for vegan and gluten-free guests, and provide other allergen info.
• Whit’s Frozen Custard – This ice cream chain now has several vegan-friendly stores, including the one in this city. They’re now churning vegan custard that’s made with gluten-free oat milk or cultured coconut milk. The flavors can vary, and are sold in pints or by the scoop, and dairy-free cones and toppings are available.

Boynton Beach

• Blondies Vegan Bakery & Cafe ⭐️ – This vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free spot offers a menu of sandwiches, burgers, and salads, alongside ample sweets. They have a full dairy-free ice cream menu, daily desserts, and custom cakes on order. Paleo treats are also available.
• The Poké Company ⭐️ – The food menu at this poke bowl and sushi burrito shop is dairy-free and nut-free. They also offer cauliflower rice for grain-free and paleo guests, label their sauces for vegan and gluten-free guests, and provide other allergen info.

Clearwater

• Extreme Pizza – They have a whole menu of vegan signature pizzas, and of course, you can build your own dairy-free pizza. You can also custom order one of their many salads.
• Halelife Bakery ⭐️ – This everyone-friendly bakery is dedicated vegan (dairy-free and egg-free), gluten-free, nut-free, and soy-free! They clearly list ingredients for all of their treats, from cupcakes to donuts to “cheesecakes.” They also ship nationwide. But if your in Clearwater or Tampa, you can stop in!

Cocoa Beach

• The Green Room Cafe – It’s hard to miss this vibrantly-colored health food spot. They serve a big selection of dairy-free smoothies, acai bowls, and smoothie bowls, and can make most of their salads, sandwiches, and wraps without dairy. All vegan and gluten-free items are clearly labeled (and there are many!), and they do offer alternatives, like vegan cheese.

Coral Gables

• L’Artisane Creative Bakery ⭐️ – This is a French all-vegan bakery. They offer classics like croissants and macaron, all day brunch, soup and salads, and have some local favorites, like empanadas. They also bake custom cakes.

Coral Springs

• Chill-N Nitrogen Ice Cream – This Florida, made-to-order ice cream chain now offers three dairy-free and vegan-friendly bases: oat milk, almond milk, and coconut milk. Many of their flavors and mix-ins are also dairy-free.
• Coolgreens – This healthy chain makes salads, wraps, sandwiches, and grain bowls. They have at least one dairy-free option in each category, and most items can be custom ordered dairy-free. At last check, all of their proteins, all of their greens and grains, most of their dressings (just skip the ranches), and most of their toppings (just skip the cheeses) were made without dairy. Even their croutons and spiced pecans are listed as dairy-free.

Delray Beach

• Ripe ⭐️ – The diverse menu at this casual, 100% gluten-free restaurant highlights local ingredients, but a global array of flavors. They label dairy-free, vegan, vegetarian, paleo, keto, and nut-free items with special icons on their menu. And there are quite a few dairy-free options to choose from!
• The Poké Company ⭐️ – The food menu at this poke bowl and sushi burrito shop is dairy-free and nut-free. They also offer cauliflower rice for grain-free and paleo guests, label their sauces for vegan and gluten-free guests, and provide other allergen info.

Destin

• Lucy Buffet’s Lulu’s ⭐️ – Yes, this is Warren Buffet’s sister! Which explains why you will only find locations in a few touristy coastal towns. They have full allergen and special diet menus for Dairy Free, Egg Free, Gluten Free, Shellfish Free, Soy Free, Seafood Free, and Vegan guests. The dairy-free menu is filled with seafood, big ole’ salads, tropical sides, hamburgers, sandwiches, and more.
• NaturBaker ⭐️ – This is a vegan, gluten-free bakery with a top 12 allergen-free dedicated facility. They also have keto options. Their selection includes muffins, donuts, cupcakes, cookies, granola bars, and more. They don’t have a storefront, but they offer pick-up at their bakery in Destin, and have pick-up at a few farmer’s markets in neighboring cities.
• Sugarland Candy & Ice Cream – They scoop a dairy-free, chocolaty Classic Cookie ice cream that is made with Oat Milk.
• The Yard Milkshake Bar – This growing chain serves ridiculously indulgent milkshakes, and they have vegan options on their menu. We spotted this crazy chocolate concoction made with oat milk ice cream, chocolate soymilk, dairy-free whip, and vegan cookies. You can also build your own shake. They usually have a couple creamy dairy-free ice cream flavors available.

Doral

• Bunnie Cakes ⭐️ – Pink is the cheerful theme at this sweet vegan bake shop. They make beautiful cupcakes, cookies, cakes, and donuts, and offer many gluten-free options. They also take special orders for custom cakes and other baked goods.

Eatonville

• DaJen Eats Cafe & Creamery ⭐️ – This small but vibrant restaurant serves vegan food with Jamaican flair. Their menu includes flavorful “sammiches,” build-your-own salads, build-your-own bowls, and decadent dairy-free ice creams and frozen desserts.

Homestead

• Robert Is Here Fruit Stand – It doesn’t get much fresher than this legendary fruit stand, which dates back to 1959. They have local fruits galore, their own line of jams, and the best vegan smoothies around.

Fort Lauderdale

• Aloha Poke Co – They’re great about sharing allergy, gluten, and vegan info at this midwest poke chain. Most of their menu is dairy-free, but they state that their yuzu ranch sauce, “crunch” fried onions, and furikake seasoning to contain milk. They do have vegan and gluten-free sauce and topping options, too.
• Chill-N Nitrogen Ice Cream – This Florida, made-to-order ice cream chain now offers three dairy-free and vegan-friendly bases: oat milk, almond milk, and coconut milk. Many of their flavors and mix-ins are also dairy-free.
• Green Bar & Kitchen ⭐️ – This minimalist vegan cafe focuses on healthy food and sustainability. They serve breakfast all day, have a nice menu of burgers, sandwiches, salads, and bowls, and also have a full juice bar. You can also order their juice cleanses, fresh-pressed juices, smoothies, and acai bowls. They are open midday into the early evening, and pour beer and wine.
• Pizza Fusion – It’s easy to order dairy-free pizza at this small chain. All of their pizza doughs are vegan, their pizza sauce is vegan, and they offer two dairy-free cheese alternatives: Daiya and Follow Your Heart. They can also customize sandwiches and salads as needed. And for dessert, they have gluten-free vegan brownies!

Fort Myers

• Pizza Fusion – It’s easy to order dairy-free pizza at this small chain. All of their pizza doughs are vegan, their pizza sauce is vegan, and they offer two dairy-free cheese alternatives: Daiya and Follow Your Heart. They can also customize sandwiches and salads as needed. And for dessert, they have gluten-free vegan brownies!

Gainesville

• Karma Cream ⭐️ – This all-vegan shop is overflowing with goodness. They serve organic coffee, kombucha on tap, a big variety of baked goods, sandwiches to balance out the sweets, and of course, ice cream. Their dairy-free, gluten-free (yes, every flavor!) scoops can be served with an array of toppings and even sandwiched in vegan cookies (not gluten-free).
• MidiCi Pizza – Their signature Neapolitan dough is light, thin, soft, and chewy, with a high crust, and it’s dairy-free. It’s made purely with a special Neapolitan flour, water, sea salt, and yeast. They also offer dairy-free cheese alternative and vegan sausage, and have several custom order salad options.

Hialeah

• Happy Vegan Bakers Café ⭐️ – This isn’t your typical American bakery. Instead of cupcakes and donuts, these bakers are rolling out Hispanic soul food. Enjoy a range of sweet and savory vegan pastelitos, croquetas, tostadas, empanadas, and more.

Jacksonville

• Arepa Please – They have a vegan arepa right on the menu, and can build you a dairy-free arepa with various other ingredients. Select wraps are also dairy-free, and they offer almond milk for coffee.
• Green Erth Bistro – This little neighborhood restaurant focuses on Persian cuisine, and they are conscious of special diet needs. Many of the dishes are naturally dairy free, but they also have specifically vegan dishes and vegan options for numerous menu items. They even offer dairy-free cheese alternative for their paninis! For dessert, they have a rotating vegan dessert and dairy-free ice cream.
• Grenville Kitchen ⭐️ – Healthy plant-based eats, and indulgent vegan sweets are the specialties at this quick serve restaurant. They offer a full array of baked goods and even take custom cake orders.
• Kathy’s Table ⭐️ – This is a counter-serve restaurant and meal delivery service that specializes in pre-made gluten-free and dairy-free entrees, juices, and desserts. Their in store menu changes every two weeks, and includes an array of a la carte meals with several paleo and grain-free options. They also have meal plans for different dietary goals, ranging from weight loss to bulking up. These can be picked up or ordered for delivery. They have three locations in Jacksonville: Riverside, Southside, and Jax Beach.
• Murray Hillbilly ⭐️ – This vegan restaurant serves burgers, wingz, fries, and an array of mac and “cheese” bowls.
• Southern Roots Filling Station ⭐️ – This bright and rustically modern restaurant offers casual counter service and a homestyle vegan menu to match. Their breakfast and lunch menus seem simple, but have all the special touches, like housemade syrups for coffee drinks, cashew cream cheeze for bagels, and fresh locally grown produce. Everything on the menu can be ordered dairy-free, but they do offer dairy cheese as an option, so it isn’t a completely vegan restaurant. Almost everything on the menu can be ordered gluten-free, too – they even offer gluten-free bread and bagels!
• Sweets by Holly – This classic cupcake shop offers vegan vanilla and chocolate cupcakes, and can make custom vegan and gluten-free cupcakes by order.
• Sweet Charlie’s – This rolled ice cream chain offers a dairy-free and vegan base that you can customize with various flavor and add-in options or even enjoy as a “milkshake.”
• Sweet Theory Baking Co. ⭐️ – Daily offerings at this retro vegan bakery include cinnamon rolls, doughnuts, biscuit sandwiches. They also make a big selection of gluten-free baked goods using separate equipment and even a separate oven.
• The Flame Broiler ⭐️ – They contacted us to announce they run a completely dairy-free restaurant chain. It’s a counter-serve spot that makes healthy Asian-style rice bowls free of MSG, high fructose corn syrup, and trans fats. There menu is actually quite simple, with chicken, angus beef, and tofu for the protein options (you can order half and half!), and your choice of white or brown rice, veggies, rice and veggies, or salad. Your order is served without sauce, but they have Magic Sauce, Magic Dressing, and a trio of Hot Sauces (regular, hot hot, and triple hot). They have vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly options and a kid’s size. This chain is primarily in California, but they have four locations in Jacksonville.

Jensen Beach

• BunkHouse Coffee Bar ⭐️ – In addition to coffee and tea drinks, this plant-based cafe serves a full menu of dairy-free smoothies, acai bowls, and indulgent “mylkshakes.” They also make gluten-free and vegan breakfast sandwiches and baked goods.

Juno Beach

• Matty’s Gelato Factory – This top-rated ice cream shop also churns some dairy-free flavors. They scoop creamy, nut-based, vegan flavors, like vanilla and cookies and cream. They also make fruity, dairy-free sorbets. And word has it, they also offer gluten-free, dairy-free cones.

Key Largo

• Sal’s Ballyhoo’s – This 1930’s conch house turned restaurant is known for its all-you-can-eat seafood, but they also have a big list of surf and turf entrees for lunch and dinner. Many of the items are naturally dairy-free, but they have a separate vegan and vegetarian menu, too. It includes quite a few surprises, like their house-made vegan cheese. It’s available in their grilled “cheese” sandwich with house-made beer bread and a cup of soup. They have about a dozen vegan entrees, several sides, and even a couple of dessert options.

Key West

• Date & Thyme Organic Cafe & Market – They sell various special diet foods and prepare several grab & go juices and salads. The majority are dairy-free and there are many vegan options.
• Moondog Cafe & Bakery – This breakfast and lunch spot clearly labels vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and nut-free options, and there are several more menu items that can be made dairy free. From the bakery, they also offer vegan croissants and have other vegan items offered daily.
• Sugar Apple Market ⭐️ – Health is the focus at this vegan market and cafe. They serve an array of sandwiches featuring tofu or tempeh (with gluten-free bread available), toss some salads into the mix, and have a full organic juice and smoothie bar. The market side is a mix of food, supplements, and personal care.
• The Cafe – This is a vegetarian restaurant that serves generous menus for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. They have many vegan options – some labeled, some you can modify – and even offer a rather enticing selection of vegan cakes on their dessert menu.

Lake Buena Vista

• Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop (at Disney Springs) – They’ve added dairy-free Coconut Bliss Madagascan Vanilla ice cream to their scoop menu. They also offer floats, and select dairy-free toppings for sundaes. In the chocolate shop, check out their hot cocoa mixes, they have options made without dairy.

Lakeland

• BD’s Mongolian Grill – They offer a very complete allergen chart with many milk-free options. In fact, at last check, their entire stir fry menu was dairy-free, aside from one of the sauces (and they have many sauces). They do serve other types of food, some of which does contain milk.

Lakewood Ranch

• D’Lites Shoppe – This health-forward dessert shop makes their several types of healthier ice cream, including their house-made LUV Vegan Nice Cream. It’s coconut-based, contains no added sugar, and is keto-friendly. They have several rotating flavors available daily. They also sell several other vegan snacks and treats made by local businesses.

Largo

• Joella’s ⭐️ – They offer allergen lists to help customers order. The dairy-free options include all of their chicken (grilled, fried, and vegan) in all heat levels, fries, and several other sides (many of which are vegan friendly). Their grilled tenders are also gluten-free.

Lutz

• Ice Dreammm Shop – All of their ice creams are churned on site, including their dairy-free flavors. They rotate periodically, but can include coconut, double chocolate coconut, cookies ‘n dreammm (made with oatmilk), cherry pina colada, or pumpkin. They also offer vegan toppings, and can whip you up a dairy-free milkshake.

Madeira Beach

• Haze Ice Cream ⭐️ – Don’t miss this shop, which offers multiple dairy-free ice cream flavors year round. Coconut Cream, Mint Chip, Strawberry and Onyx Dark Chocolate are their core vegan flavors (made with coconut milk), but you might spot more during the busy season. Extras like toppings, cake cones, cookies, and shakes might also be available.

Mary Esther

• TJ’s Chillin’ Treats – They usually offer a couple creamy dairy-free, organic ice cream flavors.

Melbourne

• Joella’s ⭐️ – They offer allergen lists to help customers order. The dairy-free options include all of their chicken (grilled, fried, and vegan) in all heat levels, fries, and several other sides (many of which are vegan friendly). Their grilled tenders are also gluten-free.
• Paisley Vegan Kithcen ⭐️ – The plates at this plant-based lunch and dinner restaurant are piled high with comfort food. That said, their selection is quite diverse, and many options can be made gluten-free. They also have an on-site bake shop, where they bake daily cupcakes, doughnuts, and more.

Miami

• Chill-N Nitrogen Ice Cream – This Florida, made-to-order ice cream chain now offers three dairy-free and vegan-friendly bases: oat milk, almond milk, and coconut milk. Many of their flavors and mix-ins are also dairy-free.
• Coolgreens – This healthy chain makes salads, wraps, sandwiches, and grain bowls. They have at least one dairy-free option in each category, and most items can be custom ordered dairy-free. At last check, all of their proteins, all of their greens and grains, most of their dressings (just skip the ranches), and most of their toppings (just skip the cheeses) were made without dairy. Even their croutons and spiced pecans are listed as dairy-free.
• El Bagel – Why don’t more bagel shops offer dairy-free cream cheese? This one has caught on, and serves two flavors. They make awesome bagel sandwiches, most of which can be made dairy-free with this alterative. They also offer oat milk and oat milk lattes packaged to go on their coffee menu.
• Manna Life Foods – Fresh and healthy is the focus at this plant-based cafe. They offer a big variety of arepas, acai bowls, smoothies, and treats – all reportedly dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan.
• MIA Market – Cover everyone’s cravings at this trendy food hall. Hotlime offers fresh dairy-free options for tacos, burrito bowls, and ceviche. Sabal Coffee pours specialty espresso and tea drinks with almond or oat milk. Jaffa serves Israeli-influenced dishes that include a range of vegan and dairy-free options. And Tran An serves trendy dairy-free Vietnamese with a whole menu of vegan items.
• Milly’s Empanada Factory – According to Milly’s team, all of their cheese-less empanadas are dairy-free, and they offer a vegan empanada. They can also make you dairy-free or vegan pastacones (toston sandwiches).
• My Ceviche – This seafood-forward restaurant has queso fresco on some menu items (which can be omitted), but aside from that, is mostly dairy-free. they have a few locations dotted around Miami, and are well loved for, you guessed it, ceviche. But they also serve a fresh variety of tacos and bowls.
• Nabati ⭐️ – This plant-based ice cream shop makes dairy-free flavors from scratch. They offer unique flavors like Pitango and Rose Goji Pistachio, familiar flavors like Cookie Dough and Chocolate, and trendy flavors like Golden and Schnickers.
• Planta ⭐️ – Despite the meaty  and cheesy names on the menu, everything at this restaurant is dairy-free and vegan. They bridge gourmet and casual with a fresh array of plant-based sushi, burgers, pizza, and shareables. Their home base is Toronto, where they have a smattering of locations run by Chef David Lee, but they also have two locations in Florida.
• The Plantisserie ⭐️ – This is a fun all-vegan spot, since they not only prepare all of their own organic, artisan food, they also offer some other specialty local items. Their menu includes local favorites, like a range of empanadas, but they also have a good selection of global dishes, an olive bar, dairy-free cheeses, and more.

Miami Beach

• Chill-N Nitrogen Ice Cream – This Florida, made-to-order ice cream chain now offers three dairy-free and vegan-friendly bases: oat milk, almond milk, and coconut milk. Many of their flavors and mix-ins are also dairy-free.
• L’Artisane Creative Bakery ⭐️ – Craving croissants? Visit this cozy vegan bakeshop and you’ll be delighted with a selection of French pastries, quiches, and American delights.
• Love Life Cafe ⭐️ – This vegan restaurant combines clean cuisine and comfort food into a whole menu of breakfast, lunch, and dinner entrees. They also offer some decadent dairy-free desserts.
• My Ceviche – This popular ceviche spot has a big selection of dairy-free ceviche, along with bowls and tacos that can be ordered without queso fresco. They have locations around Miami and one in Miami Beach.
• Planta South Beach ⭐️ – Despite the meaty  and cheesy names on the menu, everything at this restaurant is dairy-free and vegan. They bridge gourmet and casual in their unique plant-based items. Their home base is Toronto, where they have a smattering of locations run by Chef David Lee, but they also have two locations in Florida.
• The Frieze – This ice cream shop churns a huge selection of dairy-free sorbets in both fruit and non-fruit flavors. The non-fruit selection leans heavily toward rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter options.

Naples

• Pizza Fusion – It’s easy to order dairy-free pizza at this small chain. All of their pizza doughs are vegan, their pizza sauce is vegan, and they offer two dairy-free cheese alternatives: Daiya and Follow Your Heart. They can also customize sandwiches and salads as needed. And for dessert, they have gluten-free vegan brownies!

North Miami Beach

• Fuego by Mana ⭐️ – This chic, loft-style eatery is a real find for dairy-free diners. It’s a kosher BBQ and steakhouse with a huge menu that’s entirely dairy free (milk and meat must not be mixed). They also serve a range of craft cocktails.

Orange Park

• Kravegan ⭐️ – Their menu is Southern comfort with a vegan spin. Ribz, Krabless Cakes, Collard Greens, and so much more can be enjoyed at this casual spot. They also sell vegan cupcakes for dessert!

Orlando

• Bartaco – Their allergen menu is so detailed, that it states exactly what in the item contains the allergen. And their dairy-free options are abundant. Most of their tacos, rice bowls, other entrees, and sides are, or can be ordered, dairy-free. But the dessert and kids menus are heavy in dairy.
• Dharma Fine Vittles ⭐️ – This purely vegan restaurant serves American fast food favorites, with many Southern staples. They serve burgers, sandwiches (including po’boys), hot dogs, biscuits and gravy for breakfast, and many sides.
• Everbowl – They specialize in cool, creamy superfood bowls, including acai, pitaya, blue majik, and more, layered with various other bases and toppings. Almost their entire menu is dairy free (they do offer whey protein) and vegan (they have honey and bee pollen as options).
• Jinya Ramen Bar – Unlike many ramen places, all of their ramens and soups are dairy-free. Almost all of their rice bowls and most of their small plates are made without dairy too. They also offer vegan menu items in every savory category (all of their desserts contain dairy).
• Lazy Moon – Stop in for a jumbo slice of the Treehugger, made with Daiya cheese, get a bowl of vegan chili, or custom order your own pizza pie with all the dairy-free toppings you can handle.
• Love Life Cafe ⭐️ – This vegan restaurant combines clean cuisine and comfort food into a whole menu of breakfast, lunch, and dinner entrees. They also offer some decadent dairy-free desserts.
• Sweets by Holly – This classic cupcake shop offers vegan vanilla and chocolate cupcakes, and can make custom vegan and gluten-free cupcakes by order.
• The Greenery Creamery – They offer traditional dairy ice cream, but also make plant-based, dairy-free ice cream flavors using a mix of coconut, peanut butter, sunflower butter, almond or soy bases. Their seletion is creative, and can be enjoyed in a cone, cup, as a sundae, or even an over-the-top milkshake.
• The Mexican Camel – They have a fabulous vegan selection, which includes quesadillas, falafel, shawarma, and baklava. You can also custom build your own dairy-free salad, bowl, tacos, burrito, or pita.
• The Polite Pig – They are reportedly friendly toward special diet guests and do offer quite a few dairy-free options at this Southern-style spot. When we inquired, they quickly responded with this information: “We can provide a dairy free bun, all of our meats (except sausage ) are dairy free, all of our sauces are dairy free. If you have any additional questions or concerns when you arrive please just ask for a manager, we will be more than happy to assist you!”
• Uncle Maddio’s – This build-your-own pizza or salad chain offers Daiya dairy-free cheese alternative and has two crust options to choose from (including gluten-free). They also offer a plethora of toppings and a good handful of dairy-free sauce and dressing options.
• Valhalla Bakery ⭐️ – Need a cake? Look no further than this all-vegan bakery. They make stunning cakes, cookies, and other sweet treats daily and on custom order.
• Valkyrie Doughnuts ⭐️ – This is a sister shop to Valhalla Bakery, serving house-baked vegan doughnuts in a unique, and rather clever, square shape.
• Voodoo Doughnut – This unique doughnut chain out of Oregon offers several vegan doughnut flavors daily, which can include maple bars, cream filled, apple fritters, and other creative raised and iced varieties. They also bake a vegan cake doughnut, and can make almost any donut vegan if you order ahead. However, they don’t offer any gluten-free donuts. This location is at the Universal Studios Citywalk.

Orlando – Disney

• Erin McKenna’s Bakery ⭐️ (at The Landing at Disney Springs) – Need a sweet treat to keep you energized at Disneyworld? This sweet bakery is completely vegan and gluten-free, and they don’t use any soy. Their daily menu includes cupcakes, muffins, donuts, cookies, crumb cakes, and more. They also swirl dairy-free soft serve. And yes, they take custom cake orders! They can deliver cakes to most table service restaurants in Disneyworld.
• Raglan Road Irish Pub (at The Landing at Disney Springs) – This entertaining restaurant has received many raves from dairy-free diners. They also responded promptly to our inquiry and said (at the time) the following entrees were recommended for dairy-free guests: fish & chips, fried chicken & chips, vegan shepherd’s pie, risotto (can be make diary free), steak without mash (sub veg or chips with red wine jus instead of whiskey peppercorn), burger no cheese.
• Woody’s Lunch Box (at Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios) – You’ll come back to life after a break at this family-friendly spot. They’re open for late breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and offer vegan grilled cheese and totchos, alond with some other dairy-free menu items. Their sandwiches can be made both dairy-free and gluten-free.

Palm Beach Gardens

• Christopher’s Kitchen ⭐️ – This plant-based restaurant goes beyond vegan, with a mostly raw menu. They serve lunch, dinner, brunch, and dessert with a unique take on many favorite dishes.
• LemonShark Poke – They have an interactive allergen menu online, and it brings good news for dairy-free guests. All of their sauces and poke bowl ingredients are dairy-free. The only items that contained dairy at our time of review were the tempura, coconut shrimp, and katsu.
• Meraki Juice Kitchen ⭐️ – This spacious, yet cozy cafe does so much more than cold-pressed juices. They have a completely dairy-free and plant-based menu of smoothies, smoothie bowls, coffee drinks, salads, sandwiches, ice cream treats, baked goods, and more.

Panama City Beach

• The Yard Milkshake Bar – This growing chain serves ridiculously indulgent milkshakes, and they have vegan options on their menu. We spotted this crazy chocolate concoction made with oat milk ice cream, chocolate soymilk, dairy-free whip, and vegan cookies. You can also build your own shake. They usually have a couple creamy dairy-free ice cream flavors available.

Pine Crest

• EVOS Restaurant – This healthy local fast food chain serves an array of bowls, burgers, wraps, salads, and sides. They only use hormone and antibiotic-free meat, source wild fish, and airbake their fries and tenders (they don’t have a deep fryer). Their nutritious spin means quite a few dairy-free options, and of course their menu is labeled for vegan and gluten-free selections. They also serve some pretty tasty fruitshakes, which are naturally vegan.

Plantation

• Parlour Vegan Bakery ⭐️ – Kristen, who’s been allergic to dairy her entire life, recommended this tiny little bakery. “I’ve only been here once, I just found it. But they offer cupcakes, cookies, cinnamon rolls, empanadas and donuts. I shared some cupcakes and a cookie with my sister and we agreed both were great. This bakery is also opening a second location in Boca Raton, Florida.We like it more than Whole Foods.”

Pompano Beach

• The Poké Company ⭐️ – The food menu at this poke bowl and sushi burrito shop is dairy-free and nut-free. They also offer cauliflower rice for grain-free and paleo guests, label their sauces for vegan and gluten-free guests, and provide other allergen info.

Riviera Beach

• Dina’s Vegan Deli & Desserts ⭐️ – As the name implies, everything at this casual spot is dairy-free and vegan-friendly. Their cheesy menu is loaded with cheesesteaks, hoagies, gyros, and more boardwalk-style specialties. They also have daily desserts, like fresh-baked cupcakes and chocolate treats.
• Vegan On The Go ⭐️ – As the name states, this is a purely plant-based establishment serving quick serve cuisine. Their menu includes burgers, sandwiches, wraps, salads, sides, smoothies, and desserts.

Sanford

• Dharma Fine Vittles ⭐️ – This purely vegan restaurant serves American fast food favorites, with many Southern staples. They serve burgers, sandwiches (including po’boys), hot dogs, biscuits and gravy for breakfast, and many sides.
• The Greenery Creamery – They offer traditional dairy ice cream, but also make plant-based, dairy-free ice cream flavors using a mix of coconut, peanut butter, sunflower butter, almond or soy bases. Their seletion is creative, and can be enjoyed in a cone, cup, as a sundae, or even an over-the-top milkshake.

Sarasota

• Dairy Free Creamery ⭐️ – You can find this vegan cheese maker at the Sarasota Farmers Market on Saturdays. They also take orders and are located in Englewood.
• Green Zebra – This cozy, health-forward cafe has two locations, one downtown and one at St Armands Circle. They offer a diverse range of breakfast and lunch items, with options for dairy-free, vegan, paleo, gluten-free, and raw food guests. They also have a full juice bar with superfood smoothies and shakes.
• Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream – See our Jeni’s Dairy-Free Guide for full details.

Seminole

• Joella’s ⭐️ – They offer allergen lists to help customers order. The dairy-free options include all of their chicken (grilled, fried, and vegan) in all heat levels, fries, and several other sides (many of which are vegan friendly). Their grilled tenders are also gluten-free.

South Miami

• Chill-N Nitrogen Ice Cream – This Florida, made-to-order ice cream chain now offers three dairy-free and vegan-friendly bases: oat milk, almond milk, and coconut milk. Many of their flavors and mix-ins are also dairy-free.

St. Petersburg

• Driftwood Roastery – This laid back coffee house also specializes in kava and kratom. They offer dairy-free milk alternatives, juices, smoothies, acai bowls, and some light bites.
• EVOS Restaurant – This healthy local fast food chain serves an array of bowls, burgers, wraps, salads, and sides. They only use hormone and antibiotic-free meat, source wild fish, and airbake their fries and tenders (they don’t have a deep fryer). Their nutritious spin means quite a few dairy-free options, and of course their menu is labeled for vegan and gluten-free selections. They also serve some pretty tasty fruitshakes, which are naturally vegan.
• Love Food Central ⭐️ – The entire menu at this comfort food cafe is vegan and gluten-free. They specialize in grilled sandwiches, salads, and cheezes, and of course have a nice little selection of desserts.
• Paciugo Gelato Caffè – They’re based in Texas, but have one outpost in this state, with lots of dairy-free options. See our Paciugo Gelato Dairy-Free Guide for more details.
• Plant Love Ice Cream ⭐️ – Created by a mother and son team, this purely vegan ice cream shop uses fresh, organic ingredients to churn coconut milk based frozen dessert. They also shun artificial colors or flavoring, and are “very cautious with the cross-contamination of allergens.” Their flavors change periodically, but they usually have a selection that includes classic, wellness, and locally inspired options. If you can’t decide, they offer flights of five flavors. Gluten-free cones are also available.
• Urban Creamery – They scoop vegan ice cream with rotating flavors (call ahead to make sure they have it on hand), which can be served on vegan waffles or waffle cones.
• Valhalla Bakery ⭐️ – Vegan pastries and cakes are the specialty at the second location of this popular Florida bake shop. They do take custom orders with advance notice.
• Valkyrie Doughnuts ⭐️ – This is a sister shop to Valhalla Bakery, serving house-baked vegan doughnuts in a unique, and rather clever, square shape.

Stuart

• Fruits & Roots ⭐️ – This vegan cafe and juice bar has a healthy, plant-based focus, combined with globally-inspired flavors. They offer a good range of light bites, salads, bowls, sandwiches, smoothies, and even “cheesecakes!”
• Whit’s Frozen Custard – This ice cream chain now has several vegan-friendly stores, including the one in this city. They’re now churning vegan custard that’s made with gluten-free oat milk or cultured coconut milk. The flavors can vary, and are sold in pints or by the scoop, and dairy-free cones and toppings are available.

Tallahassee

• Lofty Pursuits – Kimberly let us know about this ice cream parlor and soda fountain. Most of their flavors are traditional dairy ice cream, but they churn their own vegan ice kreme and also have daily flavors of sorbet. They make a vegan caramel and a vegan hot fudge, and even make a vegan whipped cream for sundaes. They stock almond milk for making dairy-free milkshakes. For brunch, they also have several vegan options on the menu, including pancakes and waffles.
• Sweet Pea Cafe ⭐️ – This casual, counter serve spot has a fully vegan menu that combines alternatives with locally grown produce. They offer burgers and sandwiches for lunch and dinner, brunch on the weekends. You can also order from their big menu of baked goods (with advanced notice), which includes cakes, cupcakes, cookies, cheesecakes, hand pies, and much more.
• The Bark ⭐️ – Enjoy lunch and dinner at this hip all-vegan restaurant and bar. They have a casual menu of beer, wine, burgers, sandwiches, and mac and “cheese” in a quirky setting.
• Uncle Maddio’s – This build-your-own pizza or salad chain offers Daiya dairy-free cheese alternative and has two crust options to choose from (including gluten-free). They also offer a plethora of toppings and a good handful of dairy-free sauce and dressing options.

Tampa

• 18 Bagels Co. – This shop has dairy-free customers covered with vegan cream cheese (coconut-based), avocado, hummus, and peanut butter ready to schmear. Additional items are dairy-free – ask the staff before ordering.
• Bartaco – Their allergen menu is so detailed, that it states exactly what in the item contains the allergen. And their dairy-free options are abundant. Most of their tacos, rice bowls, other entrees, and sides are, or can be ordered, dairy-free. But the dessert and kids menus are heavy in dairy.
• Dairy Joy – Walk right up to their window and order premium non-dairy vanilla or chocolate ice cream. They can also make you a dairy-free sundae or milkshake, and have snow cones for those hot Florida summer days.
• Dharma Fine Vittles ⭐️ – This purely vegan restaurant serves American fast food favorites, with many Southern staples. They serve burgers, sandwiches (including po’boys), hot dogs, biscuits and gravy for breakfast, and many sides.
• EVOS Restaurant – This healthy local fast food chain serves an array of bowls, burgers, wraps, salads, and sides. They only use hormone and antibiotic-free meat, source wild fish, and airbake their fries and tenders (they don’t have a deep fryer). Their nutritious spin means quite a few dairy-free options, and of course their menu is labeled for vegan and gluten-free selections. They also serve some pretty tasty fruitshakes, which are naturally vegan. They have two locations in Tampa.
• Farmacy Vegan Kitchen & Bakery ⭐️ – Their name and website sends a confusing message with images of farm fresh produce. This is really a comfort food establishment with “cheesesteaks,” Impossible burgers, lasagna, mac and cheese, and other warm dishes to satisfy cravings. On the sweet side, they offer acai bowls, donuts, cupcakes, brownies, and more.
• Halelife Bakery ⭐️ – This everyone-friendly bakery is dedicated vegan (dairy-free and egg-free), gluten-free, nut-free, and soy-free! They clearly list ingredients for all of their treats, from cupcakes to donuts to “cheesecakes.” They also ship nationwide. But if your in Clearwater or Tampa, you can stop in!
• Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream – See our Jeni’s Dairy-Free Guide for full details.
• Sami’s Bakery – This isn’t a dedicated gluten-free facility, but Sami’s does specialize in gluten-free baked goods. They bake gluten-free vegan breads and cookies, and also offer gluten-free, dairy-free muffins and other treats. Some items do contain dairy.
• The Poké Company ⭐️ – The food menu at this poke bowl and sushi burrito shop is dairy-free and nut-free. They also offer cauliflower rice for grain-free and paleo guests, label their sauces for vegan and gluten-free guests, and provide other allergen info.
• The Salad Station – If you’re a build-your-own salad fan, then this is a must-visit chain. About half of their dressings are dairy-free, and they have a plethora of toppings to choose from.

Tarpon Spring

• Orange Cycle Creamery – This is a small batch ice cream shop that also churns some dairy-free flavors.

Wellington

• The Poké Company ⭐️ – The food menu at this poke bowl and sushi burrito shop is dairy-free and nut-free. They also offer cauliflower rice for grain-free and paleo guests, label their sauces for vegan and gluten-free guests, and provide other allergen info.
• Whit’s Frozen Custard – This ice cream chain now has several vegan-friendly stores, including the one in this city. They’re now churning vegan custard that’s made with gluten-free oat milk or cultured coconut milk. The flavors can vary, and are sold in pints or by the scoop, and dairy-free cones and toppings are available.

West Palm Beach

• Darbster ⭐️ – This modern vegan restaurant has a dog-friendly patio overlooking the water, and is open for dinner five days a week, and brunch on the weekends. Their menus are diverse and flavorful, with creative alternatives to all types of dishes, from the casual cheeze plate to comforting parmigiana to an elegant wellington. They also have a kids’ menu and an impressive dessert menu
• Meraki Juice Kitchen ⭐️ – This spacious, yet cozy cafe does so much more than cold-pressed juices. They have a completely dairy-free and plant-based menu of smoothies, smoothie bowls, coffee drinks, salads, sandwiches, ice cream treats, baked goods, and more.

Weston

• Chill-N Nitrogen Ice Cream – This Florida, made-to-order ice cream chain now offers three dairy-free and vegan-friendly bases: oat milk, almond milk, and coconut milk. Many of their flavors and mix-ins are also dairy-free.
• Pizza Fusion – It’s easy to order dairy-free pizza at this small chain. All of their pizza doughs are vegan, their pizza sauce is vegan, and they offer two dairy-free cheese alternatives: Daiya and Follow Your Heart. They can also customize sandwiches and salads as needed. And for dessert, they have gluten-free vegan brownies!

Wilton Manors

• Wilton Creamery – Though they call their shop “A Dairy Bar,” we’ve had several of our viewers rave about their dairy-free ice cream. Kristen said, “I am allergic to dairy, I have been my entire life. I have never had ice cream like this, it’s so creamy! It is phenomenal!!!” And Katie K. said, “definitely the best non-dairy ice cream I’ve had…highly recommended!” Their creamy flavors are made with a coconut milk base, and they have several sorbets, too. They usually have some house made vegan sauces, and can also make you an affogato. 

Windermere

• Humbl ⭐️ – This Matthew Kenney restaurant is completely dairy-free and plant-based. Their casual menu includes pizza, burgers, sandwiches, nachos, grain bowls, milkshakes, and swirled sot serve cones.

Winter Park

• Ethos Vegan Kitchen ⭐️ – This beloved restaurant (by both vegans and non-vegans) has been in the Orlando area since 2007. They focus on hearty, homestyle fare and all-natural ingredients. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with scrambles, pancakes, sandwiches, wraps, from-scratch soups, pizzas, various entrees, and desserts. Everything is of course free of dairy, eggs, seafood, and meat, but they also have an allergen menu for gluten and other top allergens.

Wynwood

• Love Life Cafe ⭐️ – This vegan restaurant combines clean cuisine and comfort food into a whole menu of breakfast, lunch, and dinner entrees. They also offer some decadent dairy-free desserts.

Photo from Arepa Please.

Most Popular Chains in Florida for Dairy-Free Diners

There are many more chains in this state, but these are the ones we recommend most for dairy-free options.

Florida-Only Chains

• Eat Fresh Kitchen ⭐️ – This build-your-own bowl local chain labels every component of their menu for dairy-free, gluten-free, soy-free, and vegan. And aside from the overtly cheesy items, almost everything is dairy-free! They offer a very diverse array of bases and proteins, plus roasted vegetables, sauces, and more.
• Pollo Tropical – They’re known for their citrus-marinated chicken, which happens to be dairy-free, but their menu also includes build-your-own bowl options. They offer a full allergen chart that details dairy-free and other special diet options.
• Pura Vida – Bowls, wraps, salads, smoothies, and juices abound at this fresh, casual restaurant chain in the Miami / Ft Lauderdale area. They have many vegan and gluten-free items labeled on their menu (including dessert!), and have many more items that are dairy-free, or can be made dairy-free.
• SoFresh – Enjoy healthy build-your-own bowls, salads, and wraps at this fast casual chain. They have several vegan items on the menu, including proteins, vegan mozzarella, several sauces (most are dairy-free), and smoothies. Many more items can be ordered dairy-free, since all of their proteins are made without dairy (according to the company), and their menu caters to all types of dietary desires, including paleo and low carb.

National Chains

• Blaze Pizza (Build Your Own Pizza)
• Chipotle Mexican Grill (Fast Casual TexMex)
• Cooper’s Hawk (Upscale Casual Restaurant)
• Flame Broiler (Asian Fast Casual)
• Island Fin Poke – Almost everything on their menu is dairy-free, and it includes some unique Hawaiian touches, like spam as a poke bowl option and dairy-free Dole Whip for dessert.
• Mellow Mushroom (Pizza)
• Pei Wei (Asian Fast Casual)
• Playa Bowls (Acai to Poke Bowls)
• Seasons 52 (Fine Dining Grill)
• Sonny’s BBQ (Southern Barbecue)
• Ted’s Montana Grill (American Ranch Grill)
• Uno Pizzeria & Grill (Italian-American Restaurant)

Photo from Pura Vida.

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.

For More Dairy-Free Guidance, Get Go Dairy Free!