Illinois: This Dairy-Free Restaurant & Shop Guide will Blow You Over

Last Update in August 2023! We’ve created this ever-growing guide to restaurants, bakeries, cafes, ice cream shops, and stores in Illinois 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.

Photo from The Chicago Diner in Chicago, Illinois

Dairy-Free Illinois: 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.)

Alton

• Olga’s Kitchen – This Greek-American, fast casual restaurant chain is primarily in Michigan, but they have one location in Illinois. All of their sandwiches are made with their house-baked, gyro-style Olga Bread, which is vegan. Their dairy-free menu options include a handful of chicken, turkey, and veggie (also vegan) “sandwiches,” hummus snackers, seasoned curly fries, and some kid’s menu items. For dessert, you can enjoy their vegan Olga Donuts, which are tossed in powdered sugar and served with a raspberry sauce.
• The Rivers Vedge ⭐️ – This healthy restaurant is completely plant-based, and serves a casual menu of sandwiches, wraps, salads, buddha bowls, and some desserts.

Aurora

• Naf Naf Grill ⭐️ – The menu at this quick serve Middle Eastern grill is completely dairy-free with the exception of one of their packaged baklavas (the other two are made without dairy!). They offer a full menu of favorites, from falafel to shawarma, and have a handy allergen guide.

Barrington

• Popcorn Bar – If you’re a popcorn fan (who isn’t?!) then this shop is worth a visit. They offer several dairy-free varieties, including butter(!), kettle, and caramel apple.

Bloomingdale

• Cafe Zupas – This casual chain has a good handful of naturally dairy-free menu items, like the Thai Steak Salad, Nuts About Berries Salad, Asian Steak & Quinoa Bowl, Chicken Noodle Soup, and Chickpea & Vegetable. Most of their other bowls and salads can also be made dairy-free on request. You can even contact them ahead for options. But take note that their breads (for sandwiches) and BBQ sauce did contain milk when we last checked.

Bloomington

• Janet’s Cakes & Catering – This cake shop offers a range of vegan and gluten-free baked goods on order, including doughnuts, cookies, cheesecakes, cupcakes, muffins, and various layer cakes.
• Pokeworks – All of their signature poke bowls, and pretty much all of their menu is dairy-free, including the Dole Whip for dessert! They offer raw, cooked, and vegan proteins.

Bolingbrook

• 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.
• Ted’s Montana Grill – Founded by media mogul and rancher Ted Turner, this American chain serves a meat-heavy menu with lots of dairy-free options. See our Dairy-Free Guide for Ted’s Montana Grill for more details.

Brookfield

• Bean Sprouts Cafe – Bean Sprouts plants cafés inside family destinations across the country. This one is inside the Brookfield Zoo. Their playful yet healthy menu is allergy-friendly, and boasts a few different dairy-free options for kids and adults.

Buffalo Grove

• Shalom Kosher Bakery – This is a certified kosher parve, dairy-free bakery, and their facility is also nut-free! They bake all types of breads, coffee cakes, cookies, pastries, and take custom cake orders. Thank you to Danielle for the recommendation!

Burbank

• Rita’s Italian Ice – See our Rita’s Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.

Carbondale

• Insomnia Cookies – This sweet chain offers a few flavors of vegan cookies year round, like Birthday Cake and Double Chocolate Chunk. But they also bake up seasonal vegan flavors throughout the year.

Cary

• Cary Dairy Ice Cream Café – Their staff is “trained on being allergy aware,” and they offer some great dairy-free options. They have Dole Whip and Silk Almond Milk soft serves, Oreo soy-based ice cream, Italian ice, vegan cones, and gluten-free, dairy-free oatmeal creme pies.

Champaign

• Insomnia Cookies – This sweet chain offers a few flavors of vegan cookies year round, like Birthday Cake and Double Chocolate Chunk. But they also bake up seasonal vegan flavors throughout the year.
• Naf Naf Grill ⭐️ – The menu at this quick serve Middle Eastern grill is completely dairy-free with the exception of one of their packaged baklavas (the other two are made without dairy!). They offer a full menu of favorites, from falafel to shawarma, and have a handy allergen guide.
• Slim Chickens – They make dairy-free custom orders easy, and are trained to be friendly to allergen requests. Their grilled chicken tenders are made without dairy, and can be subbed on meals, wraps, or salads. They also have a good allergen menu, with a nice selection of dairy-free sauces and sides. Just use caution when ordering sandwiches. At last check, their brioche sandwich buns were dairy-free, but they are brushed with butter.

Chicago

• Alice & Friends’ Vegan Kitchen ⭐️ – Their Wonderland theme is unique, but the menu is more of only vaguely ties in. They primarily serve plant-based Asian and American cuisine, and they have an enticing dessert menu with layer cakes, cheesecakes, and ice cream.
• 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.
• American Girl Cafe – These cafes are located inside American Girl stores, and host lunches and parties by reservation. See our Dairy-Free Tips for American Girl Cafe.
• Annette’s Italian Ice – All of their Italian ice flavors are dairy-free and gluten-free, and they offer vegan ice cream scoops in triple chocolate and green tea.
• Arya Bhavan ⭐️ – This is a vegan, gluten-free Indian restaurant that also uses minimal oil, no refined flour, and offers many raw food dishes.
• Bakers Square – This is a homestyle bakery and cafe, with milk and butter galore (sorry, all of their pies contain milk!). But they offer a very detailed allergen menu that lets you custom order omelettes, egg breakfasts, salads, and sandwiches (most of their breads are dairy-free). They also have a few dairy-free entrees, like chicken tenders.
• Beacon Doughnuts ⭐️ – Walk up to their window and pick up or order artisan vegan donuts and juices. Everything is made in small batches, and they offer classic apple fritters and raised glazed donuts along with unique flavors, like birthday cake and chocolate brioche.
• Ben & Jerry’s Scoop Shop – See our Ben & Jerry’s Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
• BenjYehuda ⭐️ – Almost everything on the menu at this falafel and shawarma shop is dairy-free (aside from the tzatziki). They offer build your own bowl, pita, and salad options.
• Bibibop – Thank you to Shawn for sending this recommendation, “A build-your-own bowl Asian fusion fast food place. Most of the menu is dairy free. They even have a coconut milk mango pudding that is dairy free!” They also provide full allergen information to make ordering easy, keep their kitchens peanut-free, and source higher quality ingredients.
• Black Dog Gelato – This local ice creamery offers a few dairy-free flavors daily, including creamy selections, like chocolate and strawberry, made with coconut or soymilk, and usually a sorbet. They clearly label for top allergens, too.
• Blue Sushi & Sake Grill – This sustainable Japanese restaurant makes innovative maki and nigiri. They have a full vegan menu, complete with tempura maki, and of course most of their menu is naturally dairy free.
• Boiler Room – This pizzeria offers a vegan pizza by the slice and by the whole pie daily. You can also custom build your own dairy-free pizza – they do have vegan mozzarella. As an added bonus, vegan doughnut balls for dessert.
• Borinken Cakes – They make four dairy-free cupcake flavors (not vegan, they contain eggs), which include: Coconut, Coco-Parcha, Piña colada, and Coquito (please note that the bundt cakes all contain milk). The availability might vary, but they usually have at least a couple on hand, and they bake dairy-free, gluten-free meringues.
• Brobagel – This family run bagelry offers vegan whipped tofu cream cheese alternative, and tofu scramble for breakfast bagels.
• Buzzed Bull Creamery – This create-your-own ice cream chain uses nitrogen to instantly freeze your chosen flavor. You can order it unbuzzed or buzzed (with alcohol), for those over 21. They have a dairy-free sorbet base and a dairy-free almond milk base. They also have guides to the dairy-free and vegan mix-ins on request, and can blend a custom milkshake just for you.
• Candy Squared – This sweet kosher candy shop does sell items with dairy, but they also have a dairy-free, parve selection.
• Casa Yari – They serve Puerto Rican and Honduran cuisine, and always have several delicious dairy-free and vegan surprises on their menu. They usually have vegan dessert, too!
• Chicago Bagel Authority – Most of the bagel sandwiches on their extensive menu can be ordered dairy-free. They offer three vegan sandwiches on their menu and have a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, cheddar slices, and hummus for topping.
• Cinnaholic ⭐️ – This is an all-vegan bakery that focuses on cinnamon rolls, with choose your own icing and decadent toppings.
• Colectivo Coffee ⭐️ – They clearly label their menus for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan guests. The dairy-free food options include several bowls, sandwich and burrito options, and even baked oatmeal. They usually have a couple vegan baked treats on hand, too, and they serve oatmilk lattes.
• Defloured – They have several dairy-free items at this purely gluten-free bakery, and also have a good smattering of vegan treats. They do bake custom order cakes.
• Do-Rite Donuts & Chicken – They have several locations dotted around Chicago, and each serves three types of vegan donuts daily. Some regulars include spiced maple chai, orange olive oil, and double chocolate. For coffee drinks, they offer almond milk and soy milk, but the availability might vary by location.
• Easy Street Pizza & Beer Garden – Enjoy a pint with a dairy-free slice at this local chain. They offer dairy-free cheese (Miyoko’s Mozz and Follow Your Heart Parmesan), gluten-free and vegan pizza crust, and also have vegan sausage and pepperoni if you want a plant-based pie. Our gluten free pizzas are vegan. We offer vegan pepperoni, sausage and cheese. They also have salads available dairy-free, and serve Lightlife vegan “chicken” nuggets.
• elephant + vine ⭐️ – This casual, all-vegan restaurant specializes in burgers, wraps, salads, and more, and also offers dairy-free milkshakes and smoothies. Gluten-free options are available.
• Eli’s Cheesecake Company – They do use a lot of dairy at this cheesecake house, but they also offer a dairy-free and vegan cheesecake variety and some cheesecake bites.
• ERIS Brewery and Cider House – They’re friendly toward special diet guests, and offer several vegan and gluten-free options on their menu. They even have cashew sour cream available, and can make some additional menu items dairy free.
• Evita Steakhouse ⭐️ – This Argentinian restaurant serves an authentic array of dishes and is kosher glatt (meat, no dairy) under supervision.
• Fancy Plants Cafe ⭐️ – This vegan coffee shop and cafe offers pastries, soups, sandwiches, and salads, and pastries (with gluten-free options).
• Flat Top Grill – This Asian-fusion restaurant specializes in customized stir fries. You choose the protein, vegetables, sauce, and starch. According to the restaurant, their entire stir fry menu is dairy free, aside from the Yum Yum sauce, as long as you don’t add cheese (yes, it’s an option!). They have an allergen list, label for vegan, gluten-free, and other special diet needs, and have a huge array of options to choose from.
• Foxship Bakery ⭐️ – This is a vegan cookie and brownie company that ships nationwide, but locals can order for pickup.
• Gino’s East – They offer dairy-free cheese alternative for their deep dish and thin crust pizzas.
• Gotham Bagels – For their bagels, they have a couple flavors of Tofutti cream cheese, and a plethora of toppings for you custom order bagel sandwich.
• Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop – 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.
• Great Chicago Food & Beverage Co ⭐️ – Their big menu boasts a mix of Chinese and American favorites, all made without dairy, since this is a kosher meat restaurant. They even offer dairy-free parve ice cream for dessert.
• Hamachi – They call themselves a sushi bar, but their big menu includes sushi, Chinese, Indian, and other Japanese food (like build your own noodle bowls). Their a kosher restaurant, so there’s no dairy on site. Even the cream cheese in some of their sushi rolls is dairy-free.
• Handlebar – Their expansive menu is heavily vegan with seafood and egg dishes mixed in. Almost everything on their menus can be ordered dairy-free, and they have a great vegan dessert selection. They also have a full bar and a coffee bar, complete with vegan marshmallow-topped, dairy-free hot cocoa.
• Hawaiian Bros ⭐️ – This fast-casual chain is a regional favorite for Hawaiian plate lunches and dairy-free Dole whip. They serve all of the classics, including Kalua Pork, Huli Huli Chicken, and Musubi. Their full menu is “both dairy and nut free!” They also informed us that all items aside from the noodles/pasta are gluten free, and the only items with eggs are the spam musubi and the pasta salad.
• Healthy Substance ⭐️ – Their diverse, all-vegan menu includes an array of tamales, burritos, gorditas, and other Mexican-American dishes.
• Herbivore ⭐️ – This vegan pop up serves burgers, smothered fries, cake, and often a few other comfort foods.
• Insomnia Cookies – This sweet chain offers a few flavors of vegan cookies year round, like Birthday Cake and Double Chocolate Chunk. But they also bake up seasonal vegan flavors throughout the year.
• Intelligentsia – This U.S. coffee chain offers oat milk and almond milk, and usually has a specialty dairy-free drink right on the menu. They also typically have a couple vegan pastry options (not guaranteed, but most locations have a rotating selection) and some vegan pre-packaged food options.
• Kale My Name ⭐️ – Despite the very specific, healthy name, this vegan restaurant serves a globally-inspired menu that isn’t all that green. They do serve a range of salads, but also have many comfort foods, ranging from “cheese” sticks to sausages.
• Kal’ish ⭐️ – You can find many diner favorites at this restaurant, but they’re 100% vegan. The menu includes burgers, sandwiches, and some Tex-Mex dishes.
• Ken’s Diner & Grill ⭐️ – The owners at this friendly, old-school diner are eager to accommodate. In fact, their kosher menu is a haven, since everything is made without dairy. Yes, this is a completely dairy-free restaurant serving lunch, dinner, and dessert, five days a week! They also have a vegan menu filled with cheesy indulgences and parve milkshakes.
• Kitchen 17 ⭐️ – This is the self-proclaimed home of the original vegan Chicago deep dish pizza. Their all-vegan menu boasts many regional favorites for pizzas, burgers, and sandwiches.
• Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream – See our Jeni’s Dairy-Free Guide for full details.
• JoeBVegan ⭐️ – This pastry maker specializes in vegan donuts. They don’t have a storefront, but you can order for pick-up at Logan Square or find them at Logan Vegan (the local vegan treat shop).
• La Colombe – This coffee chain is known for their oatmilk draft lattes, which they also offer on tap. They also usually have some dairy-free baked goodies (some vegan, some with eggs), like quick bread slices and cookies, and biscotti. The options can vary by location, so ask for allergen information at the shop.
• Left Coast Food & Juice ⭐️ – Their food and smoothie menus are clearly labeled for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan options. The dairy-free options are plentiful, with a good selection of light bites, salads, grain bowls, wraps, and even items for the kids.
• Levain Bakery – They bake fresh dairy-free breads, but also offer big, thick, vegan and gluten-free chocolate chip walnut cookies on their daily menu.
• Liberation Kitchen ⭐️ – Their original restaurant, Upton’s Breakroom, opened in 2013 to feed the Upton’s Naturals team and Chicago customers. In 2020, they added Liberation Donuts to the space. Now, the two concepts have combined to become Liberation Kitchen. Their 100% vegan menu offers an eclectic mix of burgers and bowls for brunch and lunch. Plus, they offer donuts daily, and have a whole soft serve ice cream dessert menu, which includes sundaes, floats, and shakes.
• Lillie’s Q ⭐️ – Their sauces and rubs are all made without dairy (they have a detailed allergen chart with current information). In fact, they’re top allergen free, except for one, which contains egg. Consequently, much of their meaty menu is dairy-free, gluten-free, and special diet friendly.
• Little Goat Diner ⭐️ – Their main menu is rich in cheese, but they actually offer separate vegan, dairy-free AND gluten-free menus, each with many options. They serve internationally-inspired dishes with farm-fresh twists for breakfast, lunch and dinner. They also offer bakery goods (custom cakes available), coffee drinks (with soy milk and almond milk on hand), and dairy-free milkshakes.
• Logan Vegan ⭐️ – Head to Logan Square if you’re craving vegan treats. This shop serves dairy-free ice cream, donuts, and coffee drinks.
• Lyfe Kitchen ⭐️ – This restaurant had big ambitions as a chain. It has had trouble taking hold, but they still have a few locations in Chicago. Their healthy menus are clearly labeled with dairy-free, gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options, and include a good array of smoothies, breakfast, and all day entrees.
• 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.
• Mariano’s – This is now a Kroger owned chain, but they are still local to the Chicago area, and provide global cuisine in a neighborhood shopping environment. In store they offer an Italian coffee shop, wine bar, and sit-down sushi bar, and carry a wide array of imported grocery items, intermixed with locally-sourced foods. They also have a good selection of dairy-free and vegan foods, including, but not limited to, the Kroger Simple Truth brand vegan products.
• Medici on 57th – You can order a dairy-free pan pizza at this popular bakery and Italian restaurant. Their pan crust is vegan, and they also offer dairy-free cheese alternative. They also bake several dairy-free breads.
• Miko’s Italian Ice ⭐️ – All of their Italian ice flavors are dairy-free, gluten-free, and made with real fruit. They have about 25 rotating flavors, and they also offer ice-icles.
• Milt’s Barbecue for the Perplexed ⭐️ – This is a kosher, dairy-free and nut-free restaurant (at last check) serving burgers, barbecue meats, and other comfort foods. They also offer vegan menu options.
• Mindful Baking ⭐️ – Enjoy artisan-style pastries at this gluten free and vegan bakery. They also bake cakes and make savory menu items for brunch and dinner.
• Mott St ⭐️ – They clearly label all items that can be made dairy-free on their Asian-inspired dinner menu, and there are quite a few choices. They also label gluten-free choices.
• My Pi Pizza – This is the only remaining location of a former chain restaurant, but they seem to be holding their own. They offer a separate vegan menu, complete with pizzas, sandwiches, and garlic bread. And they do offer dairy-free cheese and faux sausage.
• Naf Naf Grill ⭐️ – The menu at this quick serve Middle Eastern grill is completely dairy-free with the exception of one of their packaged baklavas (the other two are made without dairy!). They offer a full menu of favorites, from falafel to shawarma, and have a handy allergen guide.
• 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.
• Native Foods Cafe ⭐️ – This is a plant-based, dairy-free restaurant chain with extensive collection of burgers, bowls, salads, wraps, and more with regional flavor influences from the U.S., Mexico, and Asia. They also have a sizable dessert menu. They have four locations around the city, including the Loop, Hyde Park, Wicker Park, and Lakeview areas.
• Nine Times Bakery ⭐️ – Everything they bake is dairy-free and gluten-free, including cakes, cake balls, cookies, and dessert bars. They also offer delivery and shipping.
• North Shore Kosher Bakery ⭐️ – This is a strictly dairy-free, kosher parve, full-service bakery. They offer breads, croissants, various other pastries, cheesecakes, cupcakes, and custom order cakes for special occasions.
• Oromo Cafe – This wonderful little coffeehouse offers dairy-free and vegan pastries, and also has an abundance of choices on their beverage menu. They offer four different milk alternatives, and even make their own pistachio milk. They even make their own dairy-free dark chocolate sauce for mochas and hot chocolate. They also have different types of avocado and hummus toasts for savory snacks.
• Panaderia Nuevo Leon – This is a traditional Mexican bakery, but they also offer a full selection of vegan “pandulce” including sweet breads, cookies, cupcakes, and more.
• Paulie Gee’s – This small-time pizza chain has a full vegan menu with a range of cheese alternatives. Consequently, most of their menu can be made dairy-free.
• Pie, Pie My Darling ⭐️ – Despite the name, this vegan baker is well known for decadent layer cakes. But they also bake pies and other desserts. See their website for the latest status on ordering.
• Pizza Studio – They have a vegan pizza, complete with vegan “cheese” and “sausage.” Many other pizzas can be ordered dairy-fee with a cheese swap. They also have build your own salads.
• Pretty Cool Ice Cream – Their Truck Pops are water-based frozen pops that are naturally dairy-free and vegan. They also offer Plant Pops, which are vegan creamy ice cream style bars made with coconut milk.
• Quesadilla La Reina Del Sur – This is a vegetarian Mexican restaurant, and almost everything on their huge menu can be ordered vegan. They also have vegan desserts, like tres leches cake.
• RAW ⭐️ – This is a health-food restaurant serving freshly prepared raw vegan food to-go. Their menu includes meals, salads, desserts, snacks, and spreads, superfood smoothies and bowls, and they ae open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They also have a full juice and coffee bar.
• Robert’s Fish Market ⭐️ – This is the place in Chicago to purchase fresh fish. They’re kosher certified, and handle nothing but fish.
• Romanian Kosher Sausage Co ⭐️ – They are certified glatt kosher, so all of their meats house-made meats are dairy-free.
• Sam & Gertie’s ⭐️ – Everything is dairy-free, egg-free, and meat-free at this vegan Jewish deli. They serve a big array of bagels with dairy-free schmears, sandwiches, salads, latkes, and more. They also offer vegan challah, cookies, and babka.
• Scoops Shop & Dessert Bar ⭐️ – This all-vegan, gluten-free shop scoops Nadamoo flavors, and uses it to make ice cream sandwiches, sundaes, and milkshakes. 21 and over customers can order an alcohol upgrade to their shake. They also have a coffee bar and serve several varieties of donuts.
• Smack Dab Chicago – Their breakfast and lunch menu includes many vegan options, from grilled cheese to burritos. They also make their own house gluten-free, vegan flaxbread and offer sweet vegan pastries, like donuts and muffins. For their coffee drinks, they offer Oatly oat milk and housemade syrups (including vegan caramel!).
• Spacca Napoli Pizzeria – This very authentic Italian pizzeria has received rave vegan reviews for their ability to “master cheeseless pizzas.” They also serve wonderful salads, rich with olives, and dressed in olive oil and vinegar.
• Stand-Up Burgers ⭐️ – You can order burgers, chili dogs, onion rings, fries, shakes – all of the fast food favorites at this vegan restaurant.
• Sundae Stop – They offer several dairy-free and vegan sorbet and ice cream flavors, including matcha, ube, vanilla bean, and chocolate covered strawberry. And you can order a dairy-free milkshake made with oat or soymilk.
• Sunny Bowls ⭐️ – Thank you to Kelly for recommending this fast casual spot. “Homemade with real, whole ingredients, a revolving menu of dairy-free soups such as Thai Chicken, Chipotle Butternut Squash, and Sweet Potato Lemongrass are complemented by homemade breads and spreads.” All of their soups are dairy-free (skip any cheese garnishes), and most of their breads, spreads, and salads are too. They also label for gluten-free and vegan guests, and even have a vegan ricotta spread.
• Tallboy Taco ⭐️ – They label their menu for dairy-free and gluten-free guests. The dairy-free items include two types of ceviche, three different tacos, and classic chips, salsa, and guacamole.
• Tel-Aviv Kosher Bakery ⭐️ – This old world bakery is kosher pareve and dairy-free. They have a case full of enticing pastries and cakes and a wall of freshly baked breads.
• The Chicago Diner ⭐️ – Their motto is “meat free since 83,” but they’re also dairy-free and egg-free. This popular vegan diner serves classic comfort food for lunch, brunch, and dinner, has a bakery on site, and blends legendary dairy-free milkshakes.
• True Food Kitchen – See our True Food Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
• Uno Pizzeria & Grill – See our Uno Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
• Vaca’s Vegan Creamery ⭐️ – They are touted as Chicago’s first all vegan ice cream shop. At their walk-up window, you can order oat milk soft serve (in chocolate, vanilla, or a seasonal soft serve flavor) in a cup, cone, our house-made waffle cone. They also offer sundaes with all types of sweet toppings, shakes, “blizzards,” and floats.
• Vegan Street Food ⭐️ – This is a pop-up vegan kitchen that serves a range of tacos and some other Mexican street food.
• Vosges Haut-Chocolat – This fine chocolatier is headquartered in Chicago, where they also have a boutique shop. They always have some delicious dairy-free options, including dark chocolate bars, vegan truffles, and usually some seasonal selections.
• Walnut Room at Macy’s – The staff here is reportedly very conscientious toward allergic guests and has no problem accommodating dairy-free needs.
• Wheat’s End Cafe ⭐️ – This is a completely gluten-free bakery restaurant, serving late breakfast and lunch, six days a week. They have dairy-free and vegan labels on their menus, which include many options, from dairy-free pancakes to paninis. Many of their baked goods are vegan, including breads, cinnamon rolls, doughnuts, and brownies.
• Wrigley Field – This Major Baseball League Stadium serves Oatly dairy-free soft serve in their food area.
• Zizi’s Cafe ⭐️ – You can choose from many classically dairy-free Mediterranean dishes, ranging from ratatouille to kebabs. Their menu is labeled for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan guests.
• Zoup – See our Zoup Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.

Crystal Lake

• Duke’s Alehouse & Kitchen – Thanks to Jenn of Veggie Inspired or sharing this recommendation. “While not a vegan restaurant, they always have a handful of creative vegan dishes available. They source their ingredients locally whenever possible and change their menu seasonally. It’s my go-to restaurant when I get to choose!”
• Julie Ann’s Frozen Custard ⭐️ – They offer a vegan vanilla and flavor of the day, each made with coconut cream. But they also serve a whole dairy-free menu of shakes, floats, and sundaes, with toppings detailed.

Decatur

• Donnie’s Homespun Pizza – Thank you to Rachel for recommending this local pizzeria. Their menu has vegan quesadillas, antipasto, and several casual entrees right on it. And they offer dairy-free cheese, so you can custom order burgers and pizzas (with red sauce) without dairy.

Deerfield

• Cafe Zupas – This casual chain has a good handful of naturally dairy-free menu items, like the Thai Steak Salad, Nuts About Berries Salad, Asian Steak & Quinoa Bowl, Chicken Noodle Soup, and Chickpea & Vegetable. Most of their other bowls and salads can also be made dairy-free on request. You can even contact them ahead for options. But take note that their breads (for sandwiches) and BBQ sauce did contain milk when we last checked.

DeKalb

• Barb City Bagels – They offer about a dozen dairy-free bagel varieties and vegan cream cheese, and you can custom order a variety of bagel sandwiches and wraps.
• Insomnia Cookies – This sweet chain offers a few flavors of vegan cookies year round, like Birthday Cake and Double Chocolate Chunk. But they also bake up seasonal vegan flavors throughout the year.

Downers Grove

• 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.
• Mission BBQ – This restaurant chain offers a great allergen chat and lots of dairy-free options. Most of their BBQ meats and sauces are dairy-free, and they have a good handful of sides and plate specials. At last check, their sandwich bread contained milk, but their buns did not! Ask at your location since bread sourcing can vary.

East Alton

• Blue Ice Creamery – This local shop offers vegan “fruit whip” ice cream flavors, slushies, and hot or iced lattes. They also have a few fast food options.

East Moline

• Whitey’s Ice Cream – This is a regional creamery with multiple locations that usually have their dairy-free chocolate mint flavor available. They also offer dairy-free options for slushes, freezes, fruit “smootheys,” and floats.

East Peoria

• Chicken Salad Chick – Their menu boasts a range of chicken salads, many of which are dairy-free. They also have various dairy-free bread options for sandwiches. They have a full allergen guide to make ordering easy.

Edwardsville

• Chicken Salad Chick – Their menu boasts a range of chicken salads, many of which are dairy-free. They also have various dairy-free bread options for sandwiches. They have a full allergen guide to make ordering easy.
• Clean Eatz – This healthy fast casual chain offers a straight-forward allergen guide and many options for building your own bowl, salad, or wrap.
• Nautical Bowls ⭐️ – This smoothie bowl shop has signature blends, but also has a build your own bowl option, where you even choose the base (acai, pitaya, mango, cacao, coconut, blue majik, or chia). All of their ingredients are reportedly gluten free, dairy free, and plant-based.
• Peel Wood Fired Pizza – They have a vegan taco pizza and offer vegan mozzarella to make almost any pizza on the menu dairy-free. They also have a full menu of other dishes with some custom order dairy-free options. They’re reportedly quite friendly to special diets, including gluten-free.
• Source Juicery – This juice shop offers a range of dairy-free smoothies and smoothie bowls, a few salad options, and house-made cashew milks and ice cream.

Elmhurst

• Smallcakes – They offer vanilla and chocolate jumbo vegan cupcakes that can be ordered with a few different frosting and filling options. They also offer several cupcake and cake flavors that can be special ordered dairy-free and gluten-free.
• Sweetberry – This bowl spot offers all types of dairy-free smoothie bowls (acai, pitaya, coconut, and green) with a range of toppings. They also build poke bowls and salad bowls, with ample dairy-free choices. They also have many vegan options.

Evanston

• 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.
• Cinnaholic ⭐️ – This is an all-vegan bakery that focuses on cinnamon rolls, with choose your own icing and decadent toppings.
• Colectivo Coffee ⭐️ – They clearly label their menus for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan guests. The dairy-free food options include several bowls, sandwich and burrito options, and even baked oatmeal. They usually have a couple vegan baked treats on hand, too, and they serve oatmilk lattes.
• elephant + vine ⭐️ – This casual, all-vegan restaurant specializes in burgers, wraps, salads, and more, and also offers dairy-free milkshakes and smoothies. Gluten-free options are available.
• Flat Top Grill – This Asian-fusion restaurant specializes in customized stir fries. You choose the protein, vegetables, sauce, and starch. According to the restaurant, their entire stir fry menu is dairy free, aside from the Yum Yum sauce, as long as you don’t add cheese (yes, it’s an option!). They have an allergen list, label for vegan, gluten-free, and other special diet needs, and have a huge array of options to choose from.
• Insomnia Cookies – This sweet chain offers a few flavors of vegan cookies year round, like Birthday Cake and Double Chocolate Chunk. But they also bake up seasonal vegan flavors throughout the year.

Fairview Heights

• CherryBerry Frozen Yogurt Bar – The flavors rotate at this Midwestern chain, but at any given time, you can usually find at least a few dairy-free flavors. They offer creamy vegan Silk almondmilk frozen yogurt in Chocolate and Vanilla. And they swirl numerous dairy-free sorbets, including Chocolate Fudge and a variety of fruity flavors. The staff has ingredient information, and can open new topping bags if cross-contamination is a concern.
• PaPPo’s Pizzeria & Pub – They offer “The Vegan” pizza on their main menu, but you can customize a dairy-free pizza – they have a plethora of crust, sauce, and topping options. We’ve been told one of their gluten-free crusts is also dairy-free, but check! Custom pizza bowls and salads are also available.

Forest Park

• Brown Cow Ice Cream Parlor – This is a traditional ice creamery, but they typically have a creamy dairy-free and vegan flavor or two on hand. They can also make custom dairy-free or vegan ice cream cakes, and reportedly offer dairy-free milk beverage and vegan whipped cream for making other desserts.

Fox Lake

• Sweet Calibri Desserts ⭐️ – This is a raw, vegan shop that “bakes” all beautiful cakes without milk, eggs, or refined sugars. Nut-free and gluten-free options are available.

Frankfort

• SweetFrog – See our SweetFrog Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.

Galena

• Galena Juicery and Meal Prep – As the name implies, they serve juices, smoothies, acai bowls, and offer premade meals. Their focus is plant-based, and they even have their own indoor sprout and wheatgrass garden.

Galesburg

• Kastle Kreme – If you’re craving dairy-free Dole Whip soft serve, this is the local spot to visit!

Geneva

• Candy’s Creamery – The owner of this ice cream shop reached out to let us know they offer dairy-free Italian Ice and Fruit Whip, and that the scoops are rinsed and stored in a separate dipping well to help prevent cross-contamination.
• Eye Candy Bake Shop – This is a gluten-free bakery that bakes many dairy-free and vegan treats, too. They also make custom order cakes for special occasions.

Glen Ellyn

• Blackberry Market ⭐️ – They label their menu items for dairy-free, gluten-free, nut-free, and vegan guests, and always have options for all. Dairy-free items include a few light breakfast items (plus some custom order possibilities), several sides, and some sandwich options. They also offer rotating soups.

Glenview

• Ben & Jerry’s Scoop Shop – See our Ben & Jerry’s Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
• Naf Naf Grill ⭐️ – The menu at this quick serve Middle Eastern grill is completely dairy-free with the exception of one of their packaged baklavas (the other two are made without dairy!). They offer a full menu of favorites, from falafel to shawarma, and have a handy allergen guide.
• Zoup – See our Zoup Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.

Greenup

• Naf Naf Grill ⭐️ – The menu at this quick serve Middle Eastern grill is completely dairy-free with the exception of one of their packaged baklavas (the other two are made without dairy!). They offer a full menu of favorites, from falafel to shawarma, and have a handy allergen guide.

Gurnee

• Bakers Square – This is a homestyle bakery and cafe, with milk and butter galore (sorry, all of their pies contain milk!). But they offer a very detailed allergen menu that lets you custom order omelettes, egg breakfasts, salads, and sandwiches (most of their breads are dairy-free). They also have a few dairy-free entrees, like chicken tenders.
• Ben & Jerry’s Scoop Shop – See our Ben & Jerry’s Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
• Mission BBQ – This restaurant chain offers a great allergen chat and lots of dairy-free options. Most of their BBQ meats and sauces are dairy-free, and they have a good handful of sides and plate specials. At last check, their sandwich bread contained milk, but their buns did not! Ask at your location since bread sourcing can vary.

Highland Park

• Bright Bowls ⭐️ – They make smoothies and smoothie bowls, and the whole menu is dairy-free, right down to the vegan protein, coconut yogurt, and gluten-free granola.
• Mizrahi Grill ⭐️ – Everything is dairy-free at this kosher Mediterranean restaurant. They serve classic dishes, like falafel, kebabs, and schnitzel.

Highwood

• Chicago Mike’s Ice Cream Co. – Located in the Historic Highwood Firehouse, they make all of their ice-cream fresh in store, including the dairy-free varieties. They offer some sorbets and some creamy almond milk-based options, like Crazy 4 Cookie Butter and Cookies & Cream.

Hinsdale

• Nourished ⭐️ – With such a healthy name, we weren’t surprised to see that ther menu is mostly dairy-free at this “kitchen market.” They label for dairy-free, nut-free, soy-free, gluten-free, and vegan needs. And their menu includes soups and broths, smoothies, snacks, and all types of provisions.
• Sweet Ali’s Gluten Free Bakery ⭐️ – As the name implies, this is a purely gluten-free bakery. But they also have many dairy-free, vegan, and other allergy-friendly options. The dairy-free options are abundant, and usually include cupcakes, cookies, pies, sweet loaves, breads, and more. They also take custom cake and bakery orders.

Joliet

• MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes – This expanding franchise makes dairy-free burgers with a range of protein, bun, sauce, and topping options. They have a detailed allergen chart to help you order. They also offer vegan, paleo, and gluten-free options.

Kankakee

• Rebel Ice Cream Co. – They scoop a few dairy-free flavors daily, including classics vanilla and chocolate, and Italian ice.

Kildeer

• Cafe Zupas – This casual chain has a good handful of naturally dairy-free menu items, like the Thai Steak Salad, Nuts About Berries Salad, Asian Steak & Quinoa Bowl, Chicken Noodle Soup, and Chickpea & Vegetable. Most of their other bowls and salads can also be made dairy-free on request. You can even contact them ahead for options. But take note that their breads (for sandwiches) and BBQ sauce did contain milk when we last checked.

La Grange

• Blackberry Market ⭐️ – They label their menu items for dairy-free, gluten-free, nut-free, and vegan guests, and always have options for all. Dairy-free items include a few light breakfast items (plus some custom order possibilities), several sides, and some sandwich options. They also offer rotating soups.

Lake Bluff

• Forest Greens Juice Bar ⭐️ – This healthy cafe serves a big menu of smoothies, acai bowls, buddha bowls, other snacks and light eats, and raw desserts. At last check, their entire food and smoothie menu was dairy-free and gluten-free.
• Suzy’s Swirl – Thank you to Sue, one of the store’s founders, for reaching out to let us know about the dairy-free options at their frozen dessert restaurant. “We always have sorbet and almond milk options for our customers to choose from! Of course we have fresh and fun Dairy-Free toppings too!

Lake Forest

• LF Juice Shop – This is a mostly dairy-free juice and smoothie spot, but they do offer whey protein so be sure the blender is cleaned and safe for your needs. They use almond milk, oat milk, and coconut milk for blending smoothies and acai bowls and for their coffee drinks. They also offer plant-based snacks.
• Suzy’s Swirl – Thank you to Sue, one of the store’s founders, for reaching out to let us know about the dairy-free options at their frozen dessert restaurant. “We always have sorbet and almond milk options for our customers to choose from! Of course we have fresh and fun Dairy-Free toppings too!

Lake Zurich

• My Flavor It Place – Unfortunately, they don’t have dairy-free ice cream, but they do offer many flavors of dairy-free shaved ice, slushies, and smoothies (must be ordered without ice cream).

Libertyville

• Lolo’s Bowls – This local acai bowl spot uses a vegan acai base and offers a plethora of dairy-free toppings. A few blend-ins and toppings, like the chocolate sauce, do contain dairy.
• My Flavor It Place – Unfortunately, they don’t have dairy-free ice cream, but they do offer many flavors of dairy-free shaved ice, slushies, and smoothies (must be ordered without ice cream).
• Sugarville – Thanks to Amy for sharing this downtown recommendation. She says, “they carry a number of delicious vegan gelatos as well as vegan cookie dough flavors. They will also open the back half of the store as a candy store eventually. My family who manages a number of different food allergies (including tree nuts and peanuts) has enjoyed it a number of times already!”

Lincolnshire

• Naf Naf Grill ⭐️ – The menu at this quick serve Middle Eastern grill is completely dairy-free with the exception of one of their packaged baklavas (the other two are made without dairy!). They offer a full menu of favorites, from falafel to shawarma, and have a handy allergen guide.

Lincolnwood

• Dairy Star Ice Cream – They offer kosher parve, soy-based, dairy-free chocolate, vanilla, and twist soft serve in a cup, cone, sundae, shake, float, banana split or snowblitz. Yes, they can all be ordered without dairy!

Lisle

• Ginkgo Restaurant – Make it a day at The Morton Arboretum with this special diet friendly restaurant. They label their menu for vegan and gluten-free guests, and do have a couple casual vegan mains. Additional dairy-free options are available.
• Manna Kitchen ⭐️ – This is a purely plant-based restaurant serving a range of casual comfort food, including burgers, “chicken” sandwiches, mac and cheese, desserts, and more.

Lombard

• Flat Top Grill – This Asian-fusion restaurant specializes in customized stir fries. You choose the protein, vegetables, sauce, and starch. According to the restaurant, their entire stir fry menu is dairy free, aside from the Yum Yum sauce, as long as you don’t add cheese (yes, it’s an option!). They have an allergen list, label for vegan, gluten-free, and other special diet needs, and have a huge array of options to choose from.

Long Grove

• The Crave Bakery – This is a licensed home-based bakery that can make any item dairy-free on request. Their selection includes cookies, cupcakes, cakes, pies, other goodies, and cakes for special events.

Loves Park

• Thrive Cafe ⭐️ – Pretty much everything on their healthy menu can be ordered dairy-free and gluten-free. They make hot bowls, salads, and wraps with plant-forward bases, then you choose your own protein and dressing – all of their dressings are dairy-free and gluten-free. They also blend smoothies and acai bowls, which can all be ordered dairy-free. They also offer vegan options.

Machesney Park

• Pig Minds Brewing Co. ⭐️ – Thanks to Jen for this recommendation! They are reportedly “America’s first and only vegan brewery!” Their casual food menu is filled with starters, bowls, and handhelds.

Melrose Park

• Bakers Square – This is a homestyle bakery and cafe, with milk and butter galore (sorry, all of their pies contain milk!). But they offer a very detailed allergen menu that lets you custom order omelettes, egg breakfasts, salads, and sandwiches (most of their breads are dairy-free). They also have a few dairy-free entrees, like chicken tenders.

Moline

• Whitey’s Ice Cream – This is a regional creamery with multiple locations that usually have their dairy-free chocolate mint flavor available. They also offer dairy-free options for slushes, freezes, fruit “smootheys,” and floats.

Morton

• Scrolls Rolled Ice Cream – Thanks to Anessa for letting us know they offer good vegan flavors at this shop. Their vegan base is made with almond milk, and they do have allergen protocols. “All Vegan Scrolls are ONLY offered Rolled & Ready. Due to the nature of how we operate, we want to take all precautions to eliminate cross contamination of food allergies. In order to effectively do so we will prepare Vegan Scrolls separately to avoid contaminating foods for those with allergies to Dairy and Gluten.”

Naperville

• 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.
• 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.
• Bean Sprouts Cafe – Bean Sprouts plants cafés inside family destinations across the country. This one is inside the DuPage Children’s Museum. Their playful yet healthy menu is allergy-friendly, and boasts a few different dairy-free options for kids and adults.
• Ben & Jerry’s Scoop Shop – See our Ben & Jerry’s Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
• Blue Sushi & Sake Grill – This sustainable Japanese restaurant makes innovative maki and nigiri. They have a full vegan menu, complete with tempura maki, and of course most of their menu is naturally dairy free.
• Cinnaholic ⭐️ – This is an all-vegan bakery that focuses on cinnamon rolls, with choose your own icing and decadent toppings.
• Clean Juice – They make their own cold-pressed cashew milks and offer dairy-free acai bowls, smoothie bowls, smoothies, toasts, and some other eats. Please note that their flatbread wraps (the bread itself) contain dairy, but all other menu items can be ordered dairy-free by omitting the cheese or substituting vegan protein for the whey protein (in the proteins smoothies).
• Fiammé – They proudly share that their pizza dough is dairy-free, and they can make most of their pizzas dairy-free on request. They also offer a vegan menu, complete with creative pizzas (with dairy-free “cheeses”), spaghetti with “meatballs,” and dessert.
• La Michoacana – This Mexican-style creamery handcrafts their own dairy-free sorbet flavors and is well known for their mangonadas (also dairy-free and made with your sorbet of choice). They also have hand-made water-based popsicles in a range of flavors.
• Lazy Dog – This chain restaurant has a full allergen chart for their modern bar and grill style menu. It also includes a vegan column. They have dairy-free options throughout their menu, including appetizers, salads, Asian-style bowls, seafood, ribs, and plenty of sides. At last check, they also had a dairy-free pie for dessert.
• Mission BBQ – This restaurant chain offers a great allergen chat and lots of dairy-free options. Most of their BBQ meats and sauces are dairy-free, and they have a good handful of sides and plate specials. At last check, their sandwich bread contained milk, but their buns did not! Ask at your location since bread sourcing can vary.
• 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.
• Nautical Bowls ⭐️ – This smoothie bowl shop has signature blends, but also has a build your own bowl option, where you even choose the base (acai, pitaya, mango, cacao, coconut, blue majik, or chia). All of their ingredients are reportedly gluten free, dairy free, and plant-based.
• 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.
• Ted’s Montana Grill – Founded by media mogul and rancher Ted Turner, this American chain serves a meat-heavy menu with lots of dairy-free options. See our Dairy-Free Guide for Ted’s Montana Grill for more details.
• Traverso’s – You wont’ feel left out at this casual Italian restaurant. They have several menu items that can be ordered dairy-free, and also have a dairy-free/gluten-free brownie for dessert. They also have a big gluten-free menu.
• Yogurt Beach – They offer dairy-free Dole Whips (usually more than one flavor daily), sorbet, Silk almond milk soft serve, and granita!

Niles

• Lina’s Frozen Treats – Thanks to Danielle for recommending this cafe. They offer acai and pitaya bowls, mangonadas, smoothies, bubble tea, and coffee drinks with dairy-free options.

Normal

• Insomnia Cookies – This sweet chain offers a few flavors of vegan cookies year round, like Birthday Cake and Double Chocolate Chunk. But they also bake up seasonal vegan flavors throughout the year.

Norridge

• Borinken Cakes – They make four dairy-free cupcake flavors (not vegan, they contain eggs), which include: Coconut, Coco-Parcha, Piña colada, and Coquito (please note that the bundt cakes all contain milk). The availability might vary, but they usually have at least a couple on hand, and they bake dairy-free, gluten-free meringues.

Northbrook

• The Claim Company – They offer a special diet sheet, which explains the dairy-free, vegan, and gluten-free options. Most of their burgers can be ordered dairy-free (they have many bread and sauce options), and they have a salad bar with many dairy-free toppings and dressings. Their guide isn’t quite complete for dairy-free guests, so their are likely more entrée options, too.

Oak Brook

• Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream – See our Jeni’s Dairy-Free Guide for full details.
• Lazy Dog – This chain restaurant has a full allergen chart for their modern bar and grill style menu. It also includes a vegan column. They have dairy-free options throughout their menu, including appetizers, salads, Asian-style bowls, seafood, ribs, and plenty of sides. At last check, they also had a dairy-free pie for dessert.
• 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.
• Pie Five – This build-your-own pizza chain offers dairy-free thin crust and gluten-free pizzas topped with dairy-free cheese alternatives and your selection of toppings. Use caution, as a few surprise items contain milk (like their regular and pan crusts, magic dust, sun-dried tomato puree, chicken sausage, and meatballs), but that still leaves a big selection for your custom pizza or salad.
• Seasons 52 – See our Seasons 52 Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
• True Food Kitchen – See our True Food Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.

Oakbrook Terrace

• Naf Naf Grill ⭐️ – The menu at this quick serve Middle Eastern grill is completely dairy-free with the exception of one of their packaged baklavas (the other two are made without dairy!). They offer a full menu of favorites, from falafel to shawarma, and have a handy allergen guide.

Oak Lawn

• Naf Naf Grill ⭐️ – The menu at this quick serve Middle Eastern grill is completely dairy-free with the exception of one of their packaged baklavas (the other two are made without dairy!). They offer a full menu of favorites, from falafel to shawarma, and have a handy allergen guide.

Oak Park

• 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.

O’Fallon

• Chicken Salad Chick – Their menu boasts a range of chicken salads, many of which are dairy-free. They also have various dairy-free bread options for sandwiches. They have a full allergen guide to make ordering easy.
• Peel Wood Fired Pizza – They have a vegan taco pizza and offer vegan mozzarella to make almost any pizza on the menu dairy-free. They also have a full menu of other dishes with some custom order dairy-free options. They’re reportedly quite friendly to special diets, including gluten-free.
• TC’s Treats – They specialize in water ice, which is dairy-free, gluten-free, soy-free, and vegan-friendly. They offer about 20 different flavors.
• The Happy Bakery ⭐️ – Pick anything from their case or menu – the whole cafe is vegan! They offer a big menu of savory eats and dessert-worthy sweets, and also have a full coffee bar. Their bakery case always has a good selection of cupcakes, cookies, creme sandwich cookies, muffins, and more, and they do bake custom cakes.

Orland Park

• Bakers Square – This is a homestyle bakery and cafe, with milk and butter galore (sorry, all of their pies contain milk!). But they offer a very detailed allergen menu that lets you custom order omelettes, egg breakfasts, salads, and sandwiches (most of their breads are dairy-free). They also have a few dairy-free entrees, like chicken tenders.
• Clean Eatz – This healthy fast casual chain offers a straight-forward allergen guide and many options for building your own bowl, salad, or wrap.

Palatine

• Bakers Square – This is a homestyle bakery and cafe, with milk and butter galore (sorry, all of their pies contain milk!). But they offer a very detailed allergen menu that lets you custom order omelettes, egg breakfasts, salads, and sandwiches (most of their breads are dairy-free). They also have a few dairy-free entrees, like chicken tenders.
• My Flavor It Place – Unfortunately, they don’t have dairy-free ice cream, but they do offer many flavors of dairy-free shaved ice, slushies, and smoothies (must be ordered without ice cream).

Park Ridge

• Clean Juice – They make their own cold-pressed cashew milks and offer dairy-free acai bowls, smoothie bowls, smoothies, toasts, and some other eats. Please note that their flatbread wraps (the bread itself) contain dairy, but all other menu items can be ordered dairy-free by omitting the cheese or substituting vegan protein for the whey protein (in the proteins smoothies).
• Rita’s Italian Ice – See our Rita’s Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.

Peoria

• Emack & Bolio’s – This Boston-based ice creamery churns a handful of vegan flavors made with coconut milk. They include Cappucino Fudge Swirl, Chocolate Pudding, Mint Chocolate Freckle, Raspberry Chocolate Krispy Rice, Goa Mango, and Toasted Coconut. They also offer dairy-free sorbets.
• Mission BBQ – This restaurant chain offers a great allergen chat and lots of dairy-free options. Most of their BBQ meats and sauces are dairy-free, and they have a good handful of sides and plate specials. At last check, their sandwich bread contained milk, but their buns did not! Ask at your location since bread sourcing can vary.
• One World Cafe – This restaurant boasts a casual hipster vibe, an expansive menu, and a staff eager to help with special diet needs. Just let them know you need dairy-free or vegan, and ask for their “specialty menu.” Their cuisine includes a global array of dishes, and they take pride in making everything in house with fresh, high quality ingredients. Their chefs even mix all of their own sauces!
• Riley’s Vegan Sweets and Eats ⭐️ – This is a dairy-free, egg-free, vegan bakery and coffee shop that makes all types of donuts, cookies, and cupcakes. They also bake custom order cakes.
• The Spotted Cow – Their house-churned ice cream typically includes a sorbet and a creamy dairy-free flavor, like butter pecan or pistachio.

Plainfield

• Slim Chickens – They make dairy-free custom orders easy, and are trained to be friendly to allergen requests. Their grilled chicken tenders are made without dairy, and can be subbed on meals, wraps, or salads. They also have a good allergen menu, with a nice selection of dairy-free sauces and sides. Just use caution when ordering sandwiches. At last check, their brioche sandwich buns were dairy-free, but they are brushed with butter.

Quincy

• PaPPo’s Pizzeria & Pub – They offer “The Vegan” pizza on their main menu, but you can customize a dairy-free pizza – they have a plethora of crust, sauce, and topping options. We’ve been told one of their gluten-free crusts is also dairy-free, but check! Custom pizza bowls and salads are also available.
• Zoup – See our Zoup Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.

Rockford

• Mission BBQ – This restaurant chain offers a great allergen chat and lots of dairy-free options. Most of their BBQ meats and sauces are dairy-free, and they have a good handful of sides and plate specials. At last check, their sandwich bread contained milk, but their buns did not! Ask at your location since bread sourcing can vary.
• Thrive Cafe ⭐️ – Pretty much everything on their healthy menu can be ordered dairy-free and gluten-free. They make hot bowls, salads, and wraps with plant-forward bases, then you choose your own protein and dressing – all of their dressings are dairy-free and gluten-free. They also blend smoothies and acai bowls, which can all be ordered dairy-free. They also offer vegan options.
• Woodfire Pizza – Thank you to Matthew for this recommendation. He let us know they have “pretty awesome gluten free & vegan options. Hands down the best GF crust I’ve ever had. The vegan cheese is very good. Can get a bit sticky, but overall very good.”

Rock Island

• Whitey’s Ice Cream – This is a regional creamery with multiple locations that usually have their dairy-free chocolate mint flavor available. They also offer dairy-free options for slushes, freezes, fruit “smootheys,” and floats.

Roselle

• Chocolate Inspirations ⭐️ – Over the years, we shared this chocolatier many times. But did you know they also have a  small showroom and shop? Pop in to discover a rather sizable selection of dairy-free and vegan chocolates.

Rosemont

• Naf Naf Grill ⭐️ – The menu at this quick serve Middle Eastern grill is completely dairy-free with the exception of one of their packaged baklavas (the other two are made without dairy!). They offer a full menu of favorites, from falafel to shawarma, and have a handy allergen guide.

Schaumburg

• BenjYehuda ⭐️ – Almost everything on the menu at this falafel and shawarma shop is dairy-free (aside from the tzatziki). They offer build your own bowl, pita, and salad options.
• Bibibop – Thank you to Shawn for sending this recommendation, “A build-your-own bowl Asian fusion fast food place. Most of the menu is dairy free. They even have a coconut milk mango pudding that is dairy free!” They also provide full allergen information to make ordering easy, keep their kitchens peanut-free, and source higher quality ingredients.
• Cafe Zupas – This casual chain has a good handful of naturally dairy-free menu items, like the Thai Steak Salad, Nuts About Berries Salad, Asian Steak & Quinoa Bowl, Chicken Noodle Soup, and Chickpea & Vegetable. Most of their other bowls and salads can also be made dairy-free on request. You can even contact them ahead for options. But take note that their breads (for sandwiches) and BBQ sauce did contain milk when we last checked.
• Cinnaholic ⭐️ – This is an all-vegan bakery that focuses on cinnamon rolls, with choose your own icing and decadent toppings.
• I Heart Mac & Cheese – This is a build-your-own mac and cheese bowl or grilled cheese sandwich chain. They offer vegan cheese, various meats and vegan meats, and several other toppings. They have several pasta, base, and bread choices. Gluten-free options are available.
• Naf Naf Grill ⭐️ – The menu at this quick serve Middle Eastern grill is completely dairy-free with the exception of one of their packaged baklavas (the other two are made without dairy!). They offer a full menu of favorites, from falafel to shawarma, and have a handy allergen guide.
• Seasons 52 – See our Seasons 52 Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.

Skokie

• Crunch ⭐️ – This kosher glatt cafe (meat, no dairy) serves a wide range of casual Mediterranean and American-inspired fare. They have salads, wraps, sandwiches, burgers, and more. Vegan dishes are also available.
• Illinois Nut & Candy – They are certified kosher dairy and parve, and have a selection of dairy-free truffles, candied popcorn, and more.
• Ken’s Diner & Grill ⭐️ – This iconic kosher restaurant has a 1950’s atmosphere with a big menu of burgers, sandwiches, hot dogs, and wraps. They also have a separate vegan menu, complete with vegan milkshakes.
• 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.
• Pie Five – This build-your-own pizza chain offers dairy-free thin crust and gluten-free pizzas topped with dairy-free cheese alternatives and your selection of toppings. Use caution, as a few surprise items contain milk (like their regular and pan crusts, magic dust, sun-dried tomato puree, chicken sausage, and meatballs), but that still leaves a big selection for your custom pizza or salad.
• Sandwich Club ⭐️ – This is a kosher deli featuring soups, salads, sandwiches, wraps, a grab and go menu, and more.
• Sarah’s Tent – This is a local kosher market / grocer where you can find some freshly prepared parve deli foods and interesting dairy-free products.
• Shallots Bistro ⭐️ – This fine dining restaurant strictly follows Jewish dietary laws pertaining to milk and meat, so there is no dairy on site. In fact, the only cheese on their menu is soy cheese! According to the restaurant, their desserts are also dairy-free and parve, right down to the ice cream and whipped cream. And their lunch and dinner menus are expansive, with sandwiches, steaks, sushi, and much more.
• Taboun Grill ⭐️ – Everything is reportedly dairy-free at this Israeli grill. They’re kosher glatt, serving a range of meat dishes and some pareve offerings too.
• Tacos Gingi ⭐️ – This Mexican restaurant is kosher and “100% dairy free!!!” They offer a build your own bowl, taco, or burrito experience, with various chicken, beef, and veggie protein options. And they serve fish tacos, all-day breakfast burritos, tortas, and have a kids taco menu.
• The Sandwich Club – This is a kosher glatt, dairy-free restaurant serving deli sandwiches, wraps, salads, Tex-Mex entrees, and shareables, like chicken strips and wings.

Smithton

• Walton’s Ice Cream – They reportedly offer some dairy-free creamy ice cream flavors, which are made in a separate soft serve machine from their dairy flavors. They also serve Hawaiian shave ice.

Springfield

• Mission BBQ – This restaurant chain offers a great allergen chat and lots of dairy-free options. Most of their BBQ meats and sauces are dairy-free, and they have a good handful of sides and plate specials. At last check, their sandwich bread contained milk, but their buns did not! Ask at your location since bread sourcing can vary.
• The Salted Lemon Market & Creamery – On the weekends they offer two dairy-free soft serve flavors made with oat milk. We spotted some unique options, like French toast maple, salted caramel truffle, and key lime pie.
• Three Twigs & Co – You can order gluten-free, vegan whole cakes, donuts, cookies, and brownies from this local bakery. They also do wedding cakes and can most likely accommodate “just dairy-free” needs, too.

St Charles

• Clean Juice – They make their own cold-pressed cashew milks and offer dairy-free acai bowls, smoothie bowls, smoothies, toasts, and some other eats. Please note that their flatbread wraps (the bread itself) contain dairy, but all other menu items can be ordered dairy-free by omitting the cheese or substituting vegan protein for the whey protein (in the proteins smoothies).

Urbana

• Dancing Dog Eatery & Juicery ⭐️ – This vegan restaurant is a midday spot for lunch, fresh-pressed juices, and dessert. They also open briefly on Saturday evenings to make vegan deep dish pizzas. But their full menu of sweet treats is an obvious feature, with cakes and cookies on display.
• Just BEE Acai – This is a food truck and farmers market regular, so check their website for daily locations. They blend dairy-free acai and pitaya bowls and make their own honey-sweetened granola (with vegan and gluten-free option).

Vernon Hills

• Cafe Zupas – This casual chain has a good handful of naturally dairy-free menu items, like the Thai Steak Salad, Nuts About Berries Salad, Asian Steak & Quinoa Bowl, Chicken Noodle Soup, and Chickpea & Vegetable. Most of their other bowls and salads can also be made dairy-free on request. You can even contact them ahead for options. But take note that their breads (for sandwiches) and BBQ sauce did contain milk when we last checked.
• Crisp & Green – You can enjoy their full menu of smoothies and acai bowls, and they offer a great allergen menu to help you custom order their savory bowls. They also cater to vegan and gluten-free guests, and even have some dairy-free grab ‘n go dessert treats.
• Lazy Dog – This chain restaurant has a full allergen chart for their modern bar and grill style menu. It also includes a vegan column. They have dairy-free options throughout their menu, including appetizers, salads, Asian-style bowls, seafood, ribs, and plenty of sides. At last check, they also had a dairy-free pie for dessert.
• The Claim Company – They offer a special diet sheet, which explains the dairy-free, vegan, and gluten-free options. Most of their burgers can be ordered dairy-free (they have many bread and sauce options), and they have a salad bar with many dairy-free toppings and dressings. Their guide isn’t quite complete for dairy-free guests, so their are likely more entrée options, too.

Wauconda

• My Flavor It Place – Unfortunately, they don’t have dairy-free ice cream, but they do offer many flavors of dairy-free shaved ice, slushies, and smoothies (must be ordered without ice cream).
• Puna Chocolate Co – The cacao they use is actuallly grown in Hawaii by local independent farmers. They regularly offer vegan chocolate bars made purely with Hawaiian cacao beans, organic cane sugar, and cocoa butter. Sometimes they also have dairy-free “milk” chocolate.

West Dundee

• Woodfire Pizza – Thank you to Matthew for this recommendation. He let us know they have “pretty awesome gluten free & vegan options. Hands down the best GF crust I’ve ever had. The vegan cheese is very good. Can get a bit sticky, but overall very good.”

Wheaton

• Gino’s East – They offer dairy-free cheese alternative for their deep dish and thin crust pizzas.
• 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. Their guide isn’t always up to date, but they still have many dairy-free options.
• Sweet Natalie’s Gluten Free Bakery / Baby Doll Bakery ⭐️ – They do use some dairy in this dedicated gluten-free bakery, but they offer dairy-free donuts, cookies, bread, cupcakes, pies, pizza and more. They also have vegan options, and do take custom orders.

Wheeling

• Cafe Zupas – This casual chain has a good handful of naturally dairy-free menu items, like the Thai Steak Salad, Nuts About Berries Salad, Asian Steak & Quinoa Bowl, Chicken Noodle Soup, and Chickpea & Vegetable. Most of their other bowls and salads can also be made dairy-free on request. You can even contact them ahead for options. But take note that their breads (for sandwiches) and BBQ sauce did contain milk when we last checked.

Winnetka

• Spirit Elephant ⭐️ – Thanks to Linda at Veganosity for sharing this recommendation. “This bright and airy vegan restaurant serves delicious upscale food and cocktails that vegans and non-vegans rave about.” This is an all-vegan establishment with a global menu of flavors.

Woodridge

• Bakers Square – This is a homestyle bakery and cafe, with milk and butter galore (sorry, all of their pies contain milk!). But they offer a very detailed allergen menu that lets you custom order omelettes, egg breakfasts, salads, and sandwiches (most of their breads are dairy-free). They also have a few dairy-free entrees, like chicken tenders. They also have a “gluten sensitive” menu for gluten-free guests.
• Zoup – See our Zoup Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.

Woodstock

• Rosie’s Gluten Free Sweets ⭐️ – They run a gluten-free, peanut-free facility and they say “99% of our sweets are dairy free.” This includes breads, cakes, cupcakes, donuts, cookies, and more. They offer several vegan options too.

Photo from Foxship Bakery in Chicago, Illinois

Restaurant & Grocery Chains found throughout Illinois

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.

• Chipotle Mexican Grill – See our Chipotle Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
• MOD Pizza – See our MOD Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
• TCBY – See our TCBY Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.

Photo from BenjYehuda in Chicago, Illinois

Local Dairy-Free Food & Drink Producers in Illinois

These dairy-free friendly companies don’t have their own retail location, but are in Illinois. 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!

• Chicago Vegan Foods – They used to have retail products, but now only sell commercial. But you have a good chance of finding their Temptation Soft Serve and Teese Cheese at restaurants in their home state.
• Every Body Eat – They make plant-based, top allergen-free crackers and crispbreads in flavors like sea salt chia and cheese-less.
• Uptons Naturals – They craft a range of vegan meats using jackfruit or seitan. They also make dairy-free mac and cheese.

Photo from Beacon Doughnuts in Chicago, Illinois

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!