Dairy-Free Northern California: Recommended Restaurants by City

Last Update in October 2023! We’ve created this ever-growing guide to restaurants, bakeries, cafes, ice cream shops, and stores in Northern California 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 Stand-Up Burgers in Berkeley, California

Dairy-Free Northern California: 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.)

Local Northern California Restaurants Recommended for Dairy-Free Eats

Northern California has been referred to as the breadbasket of the world. This is where vegetables take center stage on menus, avocado is served on almost everything, and garlic isn’t just a flavoring, it’s a main ingredient. You’ll want to enjoy their boisterous salads, since every ingredient was probably grown or made in the region. And take advantage of the heavy Asian influence in this region. Authentic Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, Thai, and other Eastern influences make it easy to find flavorful dairy-free cuisine.

Like everywhere in the U.S., the locals like their cheese. But due to the widespread popularity of veganism in the Bay Area, you won’t have much trouble asking for dairy-free options at restaurants. But the restaurants listed below go above and beyond with dairy-free, and often vegan and gluten-free, choices. 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.)

Albany

Mr. Dewie’s Cashew Creamery ⭐️ – This dairy-free, gluten-free, soy-free ice cream shop offers a range of cashew-based flavors and several vegan treats (like cookies, ice cream sandwiches, and sweet sauces by the jar).

Antioch

Go Vegan ⭐️ – Thank you to Praveen for recommending this all-vegan Asian restaurant. They offer a big menu of classic dishes and also offer smoothies and desserts.

Aptos

Bruster’s Real Ice Cream – This old-fashioned ice creamery chain churns several dairy-free oat milk ice cream flavors, like vegan vanilla, cookies and cream, white raspberry truffle, and more. They also offer sorbets.
Cat & Cloud – This coffee shop offers treats like vegan coffee cake plus savory breakfast burritos and other light bites. They offer a few types of milk alternatives.
Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.
Soul Salad – They offer a great selection of dairy-free, natural, house-made salad dressings and have a broad selection of salad toppings. All of their produce is organic.
The True Olive Connection – Treat yourself to gourmet oils and vinegar at this local shop. They even have dairy-free “butter infused” olive oil.

Auburn

Nectar Cafe – Their vegetarian menu is filled with dairy-free and vegan options, including starters, wraps, bowls, salads, sandwiches, burgers, and Mexican fare. They also have vegan smoothies and shakes, gelato bars, and raw dessert cups.
The Healthy Habit – Several of their menu items can be ordered dairy free. They serve a range of smoothies, superfood bowls, breakfasts, salads, wraps, and sandwiches. They use almond or coconut milk for many of their dishes, and have coconut whip for a sweet topping.

Berkeley

Casa de Chocolates – This chocolate shop doesn’t leave anyone out. Their offerings include vegan bon bons, chocolate bars, sugar-free chocolate bars, and hot chocolate.
Cha-Ya ⭐️ – Their menu is completely vegan, and focuses on Asian food, with sushi, vegetable, rice, noodle dishes, and dessert.
Cinnaholic – See our Cinnaholic Dairy-Free Info for full details.
CREAM Nation ⭐️ – Although this is a traditional ice cream sandwich shop, they do offer some vegan goodies. On the menu, you should see at least a couple dairy-free, plant-based ice cream flavors. And to make your dairy-free ice cream sandwich experience complete, they have a nice little selection of vegan cookies. Once your dairy-free dessert is assembled, it can be rolled in or garnished with select dairy-free toppings. Alternatively, you can order scoops, sundaes, shakes, and coffee drinks at this cool spot.
Earthbar – This wellness shop also contains a dairy-free juice and smoothie bar, where you can also order vegan waffles and toasts (with various toppings – including almondmilk ricotta), superfood bowls, and coffee drinks.
Flacos Authentic Vegetarian Comida ⭐️ – If you’re craving handmade corn tortillas and a traditional taste of Mexico, then you’ll want to stop by Flacos. Their menu is 100% vegan, and boasts taquitos, tacos, and tamales for a fair price.
From Love at First Bite Bakery – They offer vegan chocolate cake / cupcakes, can make a vanilla vegan and gluten free, but also offer other dairy-free flavors on custom order.
Gather – This locavore restaurant serves a mix of healthy fresh eats and comfort cuisine in a warm atmosphere. They clearly label vegan and gluten-free options, and have a lot to choose from. They offer vegan pizzas, share plates, portobello burgers, cookies, and more. You can see some photos of their vegan dishes on Bittersweet. Even more dishes can be made dairy-free on request.
Palm Acai Cafe – This is a great spot for acai bowls, smoothie bowls, and smoothies. At last check, their plant-based menu was dairy-free, but they do say they handle dairy (and other allergens) in their kitchen.
Rush Bowls – This smoothie and smoothie bowl chain isn’t dairy-free, but they are happy to accommodate. They offer oat, almond, coconut, and soymilk options. Some menu items call for froyo, but you can sub banana for no charge, or acai for an additional charge. At last check, most of their toppers and all of their boosts (except for whey – they do have soy protein available) were made without dairy.
Stand-Up Burgers ⭐️ – You can order burgers, chili dogs, onion rings, fries, shakes – all of the fast food favorites at this vegan restaurant.
Tender Greens – Salads, bowls, sandwiches, and build-your-own plates are the specialty at this quintessentially California chain. Their menu boasts fresh and healthful cuisine with ample dairy-free, gluten-free, vegan, and other special diet options.
The Butcher’s Son ⭐️ – This was the second all-vegan “butcher” shop to pop up in North America. It’s situated in a popular vegan-friendly area, but only open midday (see The King’s Feet below for dinner). They offer house-made plant-based meats, dairy-free cheeses, pre-made meals, and so much more. Their menu has an impressive list of sandwiches, from Chicken Parm to Steak Banh Mi.
The Xocolate Bar – They make their own chocolates, and carry fine chocolate brands from around the world. They have many vegan products, including bon bons, chocolate bar flights, cacao fruit jam, hot chocolate, filled bars, and more.
Timeless Coffee Roasters ⭐️ – This is a purely vegan coffee shop and bakery. They pour lattes with your choice of oat, soy, or almond milk, bake all types of sweet and savory pastries, craft chocolates, and take orders for decadent cakes.
Vital Vittles Organic Bakery ⭐️ – This is an organic mill and bakery that bakes dairy-free and vegan breads and cookies.

Brisbane

Boba Guys – See our Boba Guys Dairy-Free Info for full details.

Burlingame

Blue Line Pizza – They are reportedly well-versed at handling allergy orders, and they offer a vegan pizza crust and Daiya dairy-free cheese, so most pizzas can be ordered without dairy.
Boba Guys – See our Boba Guys Dairy-Free Info for full details.
Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.

Campbell

Blue Line Pizza – They are reportedly well-versed at handling allergy orders, and they offer a vegan pizza crust and Daiya dairy-free cheese, so most pizzas can be ordered without dairy.
Burger Lounge – This SoCal chain serves grass-fed burgers alongside a whole menu of vegan burgers. They offer vegan buns, dairy-free cheese, and bunless paleo and keto options. Select locations (check in advance) offer dairy-free milkshakes and root beer floats made with cashew milk ice cream.

Capitola

Melinda’s Gluten Free Bakery – They offer everything from pastries to fresh baked breads, with plenty of dairy-free options, and some vegan, too.
Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.
Terra Superfoods ⭐️ – This plant-based shop offers smoothies, bowls, toasts, and wraps.

Carmel

Alvarado Street Brewery – They offer (canned) vegan hard smoothies, and offer a vegan burger on the menu, but many more dishes can be ordered dairy free. They are reportedly quite accommodating to dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan guests.

Chico

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.

Clovis

Panaderia Cafe Oaxaca – This is a great spot to satisfy your sweet tooth. They offer Oatly soft serve ice cream plus vegan donuts, cinnamon rolls, tiramisu, bolillos, cakes, and much more.
Pelican’s SnoBalls – This sweet chain makes New Orleans style shaved ice. And according to the company, their flavor syrups are all made without top allergens. Just skip the cream snowcap or ask if they have dairy-free coconut cream available.

Concord

Cinnaholic – See our Cinnaholic Dairy-Free Info 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.
Next Level Burger ⭐️ – This fledgling chain touts itself as America’s first fully vegan burger joint. It’s a counter-serve spot with an array of plant-based burgers, “chicken” sandwiches, fries, and tots. They also blend dairy-free shakes and have house-made soft serve. This location is inside Whole Foods.

Corte Madera

Amy’s Drive Thru ⭐️ – This is their second location – the first is in Rohnert Park. It’s an all-vegetarian fast food spot serving a big array of Amy’s organic cuisine. “Everything” on the menu has vegan and gluten-free options, and includes veggie burgers, burritos, chili, soups, and salads. They also have dairy-free smoothies and kombucha and nitro cold brew on tap.
Más Veggies Vegan Taqueria ⭐️ – This all-vegan taco chain offers tacos, burritos, bowls, nachos, and taco salads with a modern plant-based spin. They’re available at Veggie Grill locations.
Veggie Grill ⭐️ – This vegan fast-casual restaurant chain serves burgers, sandwiches, bowls, salads, and plant-based variations on popular dishes. Their selection ranges from fresh and healthy to comfort food. They also have a menu of desserts.

Cupertino

CREAM Nation ⭐️ – Although this is a traditional ice cream sandwich shop, they do offer some vegan goodies. On the menu, you should see at least a couple dairy-free, plant-based ice cream flavors. And to make your dairy-free ice cream sandwich experience complete, they have a nice little selection of vegan cookies. Once your dairy-free dessert is assembled, it can be rolled in or garnished with select dairy-free toppings. Alternatively, you can order scoops, sundaes, shakes, and coffee drinks at this cool spot.
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.
Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.
The Counter – They have a few outposts in other U.S. states, but The Counter is primarily a California burger chain with an expansive vegan menu. They even offer vegan cheese. Consequently, their burgers and many other savory items can be made dairy-free on request.

Daly City

Blue Line Pizza – They are reportedly well-versed at handling allergy orders, and they offer a vegan pizza crust and Daiya dairy-free cheese, so most pizzas can be ordered without dairy.

Danville

Acai & Bowls Cafe – A reader named Diana recommended this acai bowl spot to us. All of their bowls and smoothies are dairy-free, they have gluten-free granola available, and according to Diana, they are very allergy-friendly. “If you have any other allergies like I do to kiwi fruit they will wash down all cutting boards before making your bowl!” Just take note that they do serve cheese on their sandwiches.
Blue Line Pizza – They are reportedly well-versed at handling allergy orders, and they offer a vegan pizza crust and Daiya dairy-free cheese, so most pizzas can be ordered without dairy.

Davis

Farmers Kitchen Cafe – This is a seasonal restaurant, so their menu can change. But they typically offer burgers, sandwiches, and salads, and can make most menu items dairy free.
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.

Dublin

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.
Urban Plates ⭐️ – This California chain proudly puts their diet and allergen information front and center. Their menu is boldly labeled with dairy-free and gluten-free items, they have a full allergen chart, and a vegan menu. They serve a healthy array of dairy-free plates, salads, bowls, and sandwiches.

El Dorado Hills

Wow Wow Lemonade – Enjoy fresh-pressed lemonades (with sugar-free options), dairy-free acai bowls, superfood smoothies, several toasts, and grain bowls at this Hawaiian-inspired restaurant chain. Most of their menu is dairy-free and they have many vegan options.

Elk Grove

Loving Hut ⭐️ – See our Loving Hut Post for more information on this vegan restaurant chain.

Emeryville

Konarq Cuisine of India ⭐️ – They’re friendly to dairy-free guests, and label which items contain dairy on their menu. They also offer options for vegan and gluten-free customers.
Lanesplitter Pizza & Pub – They have two vegan pizzas and a vegan calzone on their menu. Instead of mozza, they use a “notta ricotta” which is soy-based. You can order most of their pizzas without dairy.
Monster Pho – My friend Sharon at Nut Free Wok recommended this popular local Vietnamese restaurant. Most Vietnamese restaurants offer a highly dairy-free menu, but Sharon felt this one was best for both food and special diet service. “Monster Pho has the best food and is very kind and inclusive to people with food allergies. Their desserts contain dairy but the entrée items do not have dairy, be sure to let them know about your food allergies.”
Mr. Dewie’s Cashew Creamery ⭐️ – This dairy-free, gluten-free, soy-free ice cream shop offers a range of cashew-based flavors and several vegan treats (like cookies, ice cream sandwiches, and sweet sauces by the jar).

Folsom

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.
Nekter Juice Bar – See our Nekter Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.

Fremont

Bruster’s Real Ice Cream – This old-fashioned ice creamery chain churns several dairy-free oat milk ice cream flavors, like vegan vanilla, cookies and cream, white raspberry truffle, and more. They also offer sorbets.
RāwASF Plant-Based Café ⭐️ – Their name stands for “raw and super foods,” but they do have some casual cooked options, like an assortment of burgers and bagel sandwiches. They also serve smoothies and adaptogenic lattes.
The Counter – They have a few outposts in other U.S. states, but The Counter is primarily a California burger chain with an expansive vegan menu. They even offer vegan cheese. Consequently, their burgers and many other savory items can be made dairy-free on request.

Fresno

Garlishious Deli – This deli has a classic menu along with various options for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan guests. This includes dairy-free cheese, vegan faux meats, and sandwich spread options.
Hummus Republic – Their build-your-own pita, wrap, or bowl menu is filled with dairy-free options. They even offer vegan proteins, and most components are dairy-free (includes hummuses and dressings). They clearly label for vegan and gluten-free guests.
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.
Loving Hut ⭐️ – See our Loving Hut Post for more information on this vegan restaurant chain.
Raw Fresno – This laid back, California casual cafe (and food truck) serves an array of mostly raw, all vegan food. They offer wraps, tacos, and an array of creative eats, but also make cakes! They craft healthier dairy-free cheesecakes, layer cakes, pies, and other treats.

Grass Valley

Pine Street Burgers – You can order their burgers, chicken sandwiches, and vegan burgers dairy-free, because they offer vegan cheese and vegan buns as options. They also blend dairy-free shakes with Coconut Bliss.

Hollister

Saladworks – Pretty much their entire menu contains dairy, but they offer an interactive allergen menu that tells you how to custom order most items without dairy (or other special diet needs). You can choose between salads, warm grain bowls, wraps, and a few other items. They offer a good handful of dairy-free dressings, and do have gluten-free and vegan options.

Kingsburg

Pelican’s SnoBalls – This sweet chain makes New Orleans style shaved ice. And according to the company, their flavor syrups are all made without top allergens. Just skip the cream snowcap or ask if they have dairy-free coconut cream available.

Lafayette

Proposition Chicken – This is a local Bay Area chain. Their fried and fake (tofu) chicken is dairy-free. Their flipped chicken is dairy-free, but reheated in butter – just request “no butter” and they will use olive oil. All of their sandwiches and entrees are dairy-free or can be made dairy-free on request. They can also make a custom order kale salad. Just be sure to ask which dipping sauces are dairy-free when placing your order – they have options like chimichurri, bbq sauce, and habanero.

Larkspur

Frankie & Jo’s ⭐️ – This Seattle-based chain opened their first California location inside Marin County Mart. They use a cashew-coconut milk base to make several decadent daily and seasonal flavors. They also have some date-sweetened flavors, and a sorbet. All scoops can be ordered in a cup or waffle cone.

Lathrop

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.

Livermore

Läderach – These Swiss chocolate shops now offer a full dairy-free and vegan line with various dark and cashewmilk chocolate options. The decadent collection includes bars, all types of barks, and some other confections.
Wow Wow Lemonade – Enjoy fresh-pressed lemonades (with sugar-free options), dairy-free acai bowls, superfood smoothies, several toasts, and grain bowls at this Hawaiian-inspired restaurant chain. Most of their menu is dairy-free and they have many vegan options.

Los Altos

Bluestone Lane Los Altos Café – They label their menu for items that contain dairy, which seems like a lot. But they actually have a good handful of dairy-free items, including sandwiches, wraps, salads, and bowls. A few more items can be custom ordered without dairy.
Boba Guys – See our Boba Guys Dairy-Free Info for full details.
Ladle & Leaf – In 2020, they turned to more of a pick-up model, and we aren’t sure if their cafes will reopen. Either way, they label their menu items for dairy-free ang gluten-free customers, and have a good selection of dairy-free soups, salads, and ready-made entrees.
Sweet Diplomacy ⭐️ – Everything at this bake shop, coffeehouse, and local market is gluten-free, soy-free, and peanut-free. But they also offer a big selection for dairy-free customers, including cakes, cupcakes, cookies, muffins, meringue, clafoutis, and more. They also have vegan and paleo options. Their coffee drinks can be made with soy, almond, or oat milk.

Los Gatos

Blue Line Pizza – They are reportedly well-versed at handling allergy orders, and they offer a vegan pizza crust and Daiya dairy-free cheese, so most pizzas can be ordered without dairy.
Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.

Marin

Gott’s Roadside – They have an extensive menu of burgers that you can order with beef, turkey, or vegan Impossible patties. You do need to custom order for dairy-free and vegan, but they do offer a vegan bun and lettuce wrap. Their menu also includes various salads, tacos, poke, and more.

Martinez

Slow Hand BBQ – A Go Dairy Free fan named Diana emailed this recommendation. “All the meats at Slow Hand BBQ are gluten free and dairy free. This was a secret find because they don’t advertise it but they hardly put any ingredients in their meat. They feel smoking it gives it the flavor. Their BBQ sauces are even gluten free and dairy free! The sides that are dairy free are the coleslaw and German potato salad – they are even egg free with no mayo. Just tell them about your allergies and they will work with you.”

Mendocino

Stanford Inn by the Sea – This is a luxury vegan eco-resort overlooking California’s rugged Mendocino coast. Ravens Restaurant, on site, uses freshly grown produce from their certified organic gardens to create plant-based cuisine. They also have cooking classes (and many other classes) at the resort.

Menlo Park

Proposition Chicken – This is a local Bay Area chain. Their fried and fake (tofu) chicken is dairy-free. Their flipped chicken is dairy-free, but reheated in butter – just request “no butter” and they will use olive oil. All of their sandwiches and entrees are dairy-free or can be made dairy-free on request. They can also make a custom order kale salad. Just be sure to ask which dipping sauces are dairy-free when placing your order – they have options like chimichurri, bbq sauce, and habanero.

Mill Valley

Flour Craft Bakery & Cafe – This is a gluten-free establishment, but they offer several vegan goodies. This includes vegan donuts (flavors change seasonally), bread (additional loaves are “just” dairy-free), cookies, brownies, granola, and chocolate layer cakes (on order). You can also custom order dairy-free toasts, tartines, and salads from their cafe.

Milpitas

CREAM Nation ⭐️ – Although this is a traditional ice cream sandwich shop, they do offer some vegan goodies. On the menu, you should see at least a couple dairy-free, plant-based ice cream flavors. And to make your dairy-free ice cream sandwich experience complete, they have a nice little selection of vegan cookies. Once your dairy-free dessert is assembled, it can be rolled in or garnished with select dairy-free toppings. Alternatively, you can order scoops, sundaes, shakes, and coffee drinks at this cool spot.
Loving Hut ⭐️ – See our Loving Hut Post for more information on this vegan restaurant chain.
RāwASF Plant-Based Café ⭐️ – Their name stands for “raw and super foods,” but they do have some casual cooked options, like an assortment of burgers, bagel sandwiches, and pizzas. They also serve smoothies and adaptogenic lattes.

Modesto

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.
Yogurt Mill – They offer dairy-free soft serve in creamy (made with oat milk), sorbet, and acai varieties. Depending on the day and location, they might have 2 to 5 dairy-free flavor options. They also offer non-dairy fudge sauce and a good selection of toppings.

Monterey

Alvarado Street Brewery – They offer (canned) vegan hard smoothies, and offer a vegan burger on the menu, but many more dishes can be ordered dairy free. They are reportedly quite accommodating to dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan guests.
El Cantaro ⭐️ – Everything is vegan at this Mexican restaurant. They make quesadillas, enchiladas, taco, burritos, plates, and much more.
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.
Hula’s Island Grill – Enjoy the tiki-atmosphere at this 1960s throwback restaurant. They have a wonderful atmosphere for happy hour, lunch or dinner. We also found them to be extremely helpful and kind with special diet requests. They have a gluten-free menu and many naturally dairy-free selections. Their menus are fish-heavy, but include loads of burgers, sandwiches, salads, bowls, entrees, and “pupus” – all with a Hawaiian flavor flair. They also have a fun assortment of “adults-only” drinks, many served in tiki glasses, of course.
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.
Monterey’s Tasty Olive Bar – For a fun dairy-free tasting, head to this olive oil and vinegar shop. They have over 70 varieties available for tasting, and they also sell flavorful spices, and some dairy-free sauces.
Nece’s Gluten Free Baked Goods – Their bakery is dedicated gluten-free, and they offer some vegan cookies, muffins, and custom order cakes.
Paprika Cafe – They serve traditional Mediterranean pita, salad, and combo plate meals with many dairy-free options. But they also make vegan baklava.
Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.
Revival Ice Cream – This local ice cream shop offers several creamy dairy-free flavors, like chocolate hazelnut, passionfruit mango, peanut butter chip, salted caramel, milk & cookies, and summer lemonade. They also make gluten-free, dairy-free ice cream cakes, vegan ice cream sandwiches, and offer vegan, gluten-free waffle cones.
Rock N Roll Donut Bar – They have a secret vegan menu of decadent donuts that they don’t advertise. Just ask!
Terra Superfoods ⭐️ – This plant-based shop offers smoothies, bowls, toasts, and wraps.

Morgan Hill

Craft Roots ⭐️ – This vegan bar and grill sources beer from local breweries and serves a full menu of bowls, bites, burgers, and pizzas. They also have desserts, like cupcakes and ice cream sandwiches.
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.

Mountain View

Blue Line Pizza – They are reportedly well-versed at handling allergy orders, and they offer a vegan pizza crust and Daiya dairy-free cheese, so most pizzas can be ordered without dairy.
Garden Fresh – It isn’t too hard to find dairy-free options at Chinese restaurants, but this popular spot is completely vegan. They receive top ratings for their Chinese cuisine made with plant-based mock meats. And you’ll want to stick around for dessert, which includes carrot cake and chocolate cake.
Más Veggies Vegan Taqueria ⭐️ – This all-vegan taco chain offers tacos, burritos, bowls, nachos, and taco salads with a modern plant-based spin. They’re available at Veggie Grill locations.
Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.
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.
The Counter – They have a few outposts in other U.S. states, but The Counter is primarily a California burger chain with an expansive vegan menu. They even offer vegan cheese. Consequently, their burgers and many other savory items can be made dairy-free on request.
Veggie Grill ⭐️ – This vegan fast-casual restaurant chain serves burgers, sandwiches, bowls, salads, and plant-based variations on popular dishes. Their selection ranges from fresh and healthy to comfort food. They also have a menu of desserts.

Murphys

JoMa’s Artisan Ice Cream – Thanks to Jeff for this recommendation. He says this shop “makes all their own ice creams, and they always have 3 non dairy sorbets which are so creamy you feel compelled to ask if they are really non dairy.”

Napa

Gott’s Roadside – They have an extensive menu of burgers that you can order with beef, turkey, or vegan Impossible patties. You do need to custom order for dairy-free and vegan, but they do offer a vegan bun and lettuce wrap. Their menu also includes various salads, tacos, poke, and more.

Newark

Hummus Republic – Their build-your-own pita, wrap, or bowl menu is filled with dairy-free options. They even offer vegan proteins, and most components are dairy-free (includes hummuses and dressings). They clearly label for vegan and gluten-free guests.
Indigo Burger ⭐️ – Thank you to Rachel for this recommendation, “Totally vegan and totally good! I have had their burgers, fries, shakes, nachos and even cashew cheese based mozzarella sticks. Yum!” Their menu also includes cream sodas and floats, and grilled “cheese” sandwiches for the kids.
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.

Novato

Nekter Juice Bar – See our Nekter Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.

Oakland

Bare Knuckle Pizza – This “small batch” pizzeria has several vegan pizzas on their menu, and most other pizzas can be ordered dairy free. They make their tomato sauce from locally grown tomatoes and source their vegan mozzarella from The Butcher’s Son in Berkeley.
Boba Guys – See our Boba Guys Dairy-Free Info for full details.
Casa Borinqueña – This is a plant-based, vegan Puerto Rican caterer and pop-up restaurant now established in a brick-and-mortar restaurant.
Curbside Creamery – Hannah recommended this ice cream shop. It’s not exclusively vegan, but they offer a rotating variety of dairy-free cashew-based ice creams, from Cookies ‘n Cream to Rocky Road. All of their toppings and cones are also vegan, and they offer vegan ice cream sandwiches.
Delightful Foods / The No Cookie Bakery – This local bakery offers “The No Cookie” cookies, which are vegan and come in a handful of flavors.
Dimond Slice Pizza – This is a vegetarian pizzeria that offers vegan pizza of the day as whole pizzas or slices.
Don’t Be Chick’n ⭐️ – This is a vegan pop-up, turned food truck that specializes in plant-based, Southern style food with an emphasis on fried chicken alternatives and popular sides, like dairy-free biscuits, mashed potatoes, and mac and “cheese.”
Homeroom – Mac and cheese is a staple at this lunch spot, and they do have a vegan option! you can load it up with veggies, meats, or faux “meats,” or order it with different spices. They also have some dairy-free sides and a gluten-free vegan brownie (from Inspired Cookie Co) for dessert.
kubé ⭐️ – This is a vegan, artisanal, full-fat coconut ice cream that you can buy at the local grand lake farmer’s market or local coops. You can also order it direct for delivery in the local area.
La Veganza ⭐️ – This Mexican restaurant serves a big selection of vegan tacos, tamales, burritos, nachos, tostadas, and more.
Mariposa Baking Co – Every artisan-crafted bite is made in their own dedicated gluten-free bakery. They do use dairy in some products, but reportedly sanitize between production of products with any top allergens. Their dairy-free selection includes several types of cookies, muffins, cakes, cupcakes, tea loaves, pies, and their famous biscotti. They also make dairy-free pizzas.
Millennium ⭐️ – You might have seen this restaurant name on our site before, their chef shared a great recipe for vegan pecan pie with us. But you can get much more than dessert at this all-vegan restaurant. They serve an award-winning menu with burgers, tacos, alfredo, and several other dishes.
Monster Pho – My friend Sharon at Nut Free Wok recommended this popular local Vietnamese restaurant. Most Vietnamese restaurants offer a highly dairy-free menu, but Sharon felt this one was best for both food and special diet service. “Monster Pho has the best food and is very kind and inclusive to people with food allergies. Their desserts contain dairy but the entrée items do not have dairy, be sure to let them know about your food allergies.”
Mr. Dewie’s Cashew Creamery ⭐️ – This dairy-free, gluten-free, soy-free ice cream shop offers a range of cashew-based flavors and several vegan treats (like cookies, ice cream sandwiches, and sweet sauces by the jar).
Pepples Donut Farm ⭐️ – You can’t leave the Bay Area without trying these artisanal vegan donuts. You might spot them at other stores or restaurants in the area, but if you go to their shop, you will also discover full vegan breakfast and lunch menus.
Philomena Pizza – Thanks to Amelia for letting us know this restaurant offers Miyoko’s cheese alternative. She says their pizzas are easy to customize. They also offer some custom dairy-free menu options beyond pizza.
Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.
Planted Table ⭐️ – This plant-based kitchen offers meal plans, and they deliver throughout the Bay Area. You can also pick up at their Oakland location.
Proposition Chicken – This is a local Bay Area chain. Their fried and fake (tofu) chicken is dairy-free. Their flipped chicken is dairy-free, but reheated in butter – just request “no butter” and they will use olive oil. All of their sandwiches and entrees are dairy-free or can be made dairy-free on request. They can also make a custom order kale salad. Just be sure to ask which dipping sauces are dairy-free when placing your order – they have options like chimichurri, bbq sauce, and habanero.
Rush Bowls – This smoothie and smoothie bowl chain isn’t dairy-free, but they are happy to accommodate. They offer oat, almond, coconut, and soymilk options. Some menu items call for froyo, but you can sub banana for no charge, or acai for an additional charge. At last check, most of their toppers and all of their boosts (except for whey – they do have soy protein available) were made without dairy.
Señor Sisig – They serve Filipino street food, most of which can be ordered dairy free. But they also offer a very full vegan menu.
Timeless Coffee Roasters ⭐️ – This is a purely vegan coffee shop and bakery. They pour lattes with your choice of oat, soy, or almond milk, bake all types of sweet and savory pastries, craft chocolates, and take orders for decadent cakes.
Vegan Donut Gelato ⭐️ – The name says it all. Their dairy-free, egg-free gelato is slow churned Italian ice cream that promises a rich, creamy experience with less fat, calries, and sugar. Their donut menu includes all of the classics – from classic glazed to jelly-filled to apple fritters. And of course, organic coffee and tea is served.

Pacific Grove

Happy Girl Kitchen – This organic, local cafe offers some vegan and gluten-free pastries and desserts daily (like lemon “cheesecake!”). They also serve dairy-free toasts and sandwiches, with gluten-free options. And they offer other house-made goodies, like granola, almond milk, and latte syrups.
Julia’s Vegetarian Restaurant – They’re open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late night happy hour, and most of their menu is, or can be ordered, vegan. It includes dishes like brunch bowls, huevos rancheros, and french toast in the morning, with a diverse menu later in the day. They have Asian dishes, tamales, salads, and a whole pizza menu.
Lover’s Point Beach Cafe – This indulgent spot surprises with acai bowls and vegan cheesecake. Custom order sandwiches are also a great option.
Passionfish ⭐️ – We’re always excited to discover local restaurants that go to the trouble of making an allergy menu. This seafood house outlines the top allergens in each dish, and which can be modified to remove the allergen(s). For dairy-free guests, there are quite a few options, including fish, shellfish, other meat, and vegetable dishes.

Palo Alto

Boba Guys – See our Boba Guys Dairy-Free Info for full details.
Earthbar – This wellness shop also contains a dairy-free juice and smoothie bar, where you can also order vegan waffles and toasts (with various toppings – including almondmilk ricotta), superfood bowls, and coffee drinks.
Gott’s Roadside – They have an extensive menu of burgers that you can order with beef, turkey, or vegan Impossible patties. You do need to custom order for dairy-free and vegan, but they do offer a vegan bun and lettuce wrap. Their menu also includes various salads, tacos, poke, and more.
Läderach – These Swiss chocolate shops now offer a full dairy-free and vegan line with various dark and cashewmilk chocolate options. The decadent collection includes bars, all types of barks, and some other confections.
Ladle & Leaf – In 2020, they turned to more of a pick-up model, and we aren’t sure if their cafes will reopen. Either way, they label their menu items for dairy-free ang gluten-free customers, and have a good selection of dairy-free soups, salads, and ready-made entrees.
Misfits Bakehouse – This bakery focuses on gluten-free, grain-free, paleo, and keto foods. They offer sweets and savories with many dairy-free options, and even have some vegan selections. They’re very transparent with ingredients, and use almond flour for most baked goods.
Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.
Tender Greens – Salads, bowls, sandwiches, and build-your-own plates are the specialty at this quintessentially California chain. Their menu boasts fresh and healthful cuisine with ample dairy-free, gluten-free, vegan, and other special diet options.
The Counter – They have a few outposts in other U.S. states, but The Counter is primarily a California burger chain with an expansive vegan menu. They even offer vegan cheese. Consequently, their burgers and many other savory items can be made dairy-free on request.
True Food Kitchen – See our True Food Kitchen Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.

Pleasant Hill

Rooted Coffee Co ⭐️ – Thank you to Kellie for recommending this vegan coffee shop. She says they have “great coffee, food, and baked goods.” And “their scones are so good I had to ask to confirm they are dairy free!” They have a full menu of milk beverages to choose from, and have a full menu of toasts, salads, yogurt parfaits, gluten-free waffles, and pastries. They say all items can be ordered gluten free.
Slow Hand BBQ – A Go Dairy Free fan named Diana emailed this recommendation. “All the meats at Slow Hand BBQ are gluten free and dairy free. This was a secret find because they don’t advertise it but they hardly put any ingredients in their meat. They feel smoking it gives it the flavor. Their BBQ sauces are even gluten free and dairy free! The sides that are dairy free are the coleslaw and German potato salad – they are even egg free with no mayo. Just tell them about your allergies and they will work with you.”
Urban Plates ⭐️ – This California chain proudly puts their diet and allergen information front and center. Their menu is boldly labeled with dairy-free and gluten-free items, they have a full allergen chart, and a vegan menu. They serve a healthy array of dairy-free plates, salads, bowls, and sandwiches.

Pleasanton

Hummus Republic – Their build-your-own pita, wrap, or bowl menu is filled with dairy-free options. They even offer vegan proteins, and most components are dairy-free (includes hummuses and dressings). They clearly label for vegan and gluten-free guests.

Redwood City

Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.

Rocklin

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.

Rohnert Park

Amy’s Drive Thru ⭐️ – Yes, that Amy. This fast food restaurant is actually located quite close to their corporate headquarters. The entire menu is vegetarian, and they have “Gluten Free and Vegan Options Available on Everything.” They serve an array of their organic veggie burgers, pizzas, chili, burritos, and also have salads. And yes, they have dairy-free shakes!
Grindstone Bakery ⭐️ – This artisan bake shop specializes in certified organic, vegan breads and cookies made with whole grains and seeds, which are stoneground on site, just before the dough is mixed. They bake gluten-free and grain-free breads.

Roseville

Amy’s Drive Thru ⭐️ – This is their second location – the first is in Rohnert Park. It’s an all-vegetarian fast food spot serving a big array of Amy’s organic cuisine. “Everything” on the menu has vegan and gluten-free options, and includes veggie burgers, burritos, chili, soups, and salads. They also have dairy-free smoothies and kombucha and nitro cold brew on tap.
Burger Lounge – This SoCal chain serves grass-fed burgers alongside a whole menu of vegan burgers. They offer vegan buns, dairy-free cheese, and bunless paleo and keto options. Select locations (check in advance) offer dairy-free milkshakes and root beer floats made with cashew milk ice cream.
Pushkin’s Bakery ⭐️ – This newer location has more space than their original midtown Sacramento shop, and it has a bigger menu to match. It’s a gluten-free bakery and restaurant, but everything on the menu can be dairy-free, too. They also offer quite a few vegan menu items, including eggplant lasagna and nachos. The bakery menu is also big, with all types of pastries and breads.

Sacramento

Burger Lounge – This SoCal chain serves grass-fed burgers alongside a whole menu of vegan burgers. They offer vegan buns, dairy-free cheese, and bunless paleo and keto options. Select locations (check in advance) offer dairy-free milkshakes and root beer floats made with cashew milk ice cream.
Doughbot – This fun robot-themed doughnut shop has a heavily vegan menu. They offer vegan raised donuts, cake donuts, malasadas, and savory dairy-free bao buns. They also have vegan cinnamon rolls and other goodies on rotation, like vegan pop tarts.
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.
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.
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.
Nekter Juice Bar – See our Nekter Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
PizzaRev – This build-your-own pizza joint has four dairy-free pizza crusts (two of which are gluten-free, and three of which are vegan), Daiya dairy-free cheese alternative, and most of their sauces and toppings are dairy-free (skip the alfredo, pesto, and meatballs). They also offer Beyond Meat sausage for vegan guests.
Plant Power Fast Food ⭐️ – As the name implies, this is a vegan, quick-serve restaurant. The menu has many great options for burgers, sandwiches, wraps, salads, small bites, drinks, and even desserts. The latter includes old fashioned “milkshakes,” “cheesecakes,” chocolate chip cookies, and soft serve “ice cream.”
Pushkin’s Bakery ⭐️ – The midtown location is the flagship shop for this gluten-free bakery. It’s tiny, but constantly busy. All of their pastries are 100% gluten-free and dairy free. Their sandwiches are too, but they offer both dairy and dairy-free cheese as options. The cheese alternative is cashew based and positively delicious! The sandwich selection includes ample breakfast and midday options.
Rabbit Food Revolution ⭐️ – Robin of Vegan Dollhouse raved about this vegan food truck. “Not only is the staff super friendly and nice, but the food is amazing, and they even have vegan onion rings, which aren’t the easiest to find.”
Seasons 52 – See our Seasons 52 Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
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.”

Salinas

Hole Foods Vegan Donuts – This baker has pop-ups that you can pre-order for. They specialize in baked vegan donuts.
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.

San Anselmo

Flour Craft Bakery & Cafe – This is a gluten-free establishment, but they offer several vegan goodies. This includes vegan donuts (flavors change seasonally), bread (additional loaves are “just” dairy-free), cookies, brownies, granola, and chocolate layer cakes (on order). You can also custom order dairy-free toasts, tartines, and salads from their cafe.

San Bruno

Hangry Planet ⭐️ – This is a gas station convenience store that’s all vegan! They sell grab-and-go snacks, meals, desserts, and more. They even have coffee drinks, donuts, and hot food.

San Carlos

Blue Line Pizza – They are reportedly well-versed at handling allergy orders, and they offer a vegan pizza crust and Daiya dairy-free cheese, so most pizzas can be ordered without dairy.
Boba Guys – See our Boba Guys Dairy-Free Info for full details.

San Francisco

Alfred Coffee – This coffee chain offers a big selection of dairy-free milk alternatives and most of their drinks can be made without dairy. Their house-made dark chocolate syrup, chaggacino blend, chai concentrate, and many other syrups and add-ins are dairy-free. They also typically have a vegan muffin, breakfast sandwich, and grab and go snacks available.
As Quoted – This gluten-free brunch and lunch spot is located in the Presidio Heights area. The cuisine is “farm-inspired,” and includes many dairy-free and vegan options. Almost all of their salads can be ordered dairy-free (they even have dairy-free ranch dressing, vegan green goddess, and house vinaigrettes), they offer paleo bagels and lox with Kite Hill cream cheese alternative, and offer other open-faced sandwich, soup, and smoothie options.
BAIA ⭐️ – This Italian-inspired vegan restaurant is a Matthew Kenney creation. They serve pizzas (gluten-free crusts available), classic entrees like lasagna and ravioli, and traditional desserts, like panna cotta and tiramisu.
Beach’n ⭐️ – Everything is vegan at this vibrant cafe. They serve lunch, dinner, and breakfast all day. Their specialties include “hashcakes,” which are also gluten-free. They have a full coffee bar, too.
Bliss Pops – They are by order only, but they also offer catering and pop up at local markets. Their line up includes a selection of dairy-free and vegan pops, like sea salt caramel coffee, mango sriracha, matcha green tea, and toasted coconut.
Bluestone Lane – This Australian-style cafe chain does a great job in labeling top allergens, and they offer a small selection of dairy-free sandwich and bowl options on their menu, along with a couple vegan items. Their full coffee bar has oat milk and almond milk options, and they sometimes have dairy-free specialty drink promotions.
Boba Guys – See our Boba Guys Dairy-Free Info for full details.
Breads Bakery – They label their baked goods for gluten and top allergens. Their pastries do contain dairy, but most of their breads and rolls are dairy-free and they have quite a selection to choose from.
CREAM Nation ⭐️ – Although this is a traditional ice cream sandwich shop, they do offer some vegan goodies. On the menu, you should see at least a couple dairy-free, plant-based ice cream flavors. And to make your dairy-free ice cream sandwich experience complete, they have a nice little selection of vegan cookies. Once your dairy-free dessert is assembled, it can be rolled in or garnished with select dairy-free toppings. Alternatively, you can order scoops, sundaes, shakes, and coffee drinks at this cool spot.
CyBelle’s Front Room – This Italian restaurant offers a HUGE vegan menu, with pasta, pizza, calzones, appetizers, and more. They have other dairy-free options available too.
Earthbar – This wellness shop also contains a dairy-free juice and smoothie bar, where you can also order vegan waffles and toasts (with various toppings – including almondmilk ricotta), superfood bowls, and coffee drinks.
Garden Creamery – They scoop a variety of creamy vegan sorbets made with coconut milk. Flavors can include Dark Chocolate, Orange Creamsicle, Thai Tea, and others that pair well with coconut.
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.
Gott’s Roadside – They have an extensive menu of burgers that you can order with beef, turkey, or vegan Impossible patties. You do need to custom order for dairy-free and vegan, but they do offer a vegan bun and lettuce wrap. Their menu also includes various salads, tacos, poke, and more. And they added Oatly vegan soft serve ice cream to their dessert menu.
Gracias Madre ⭐️ – This vegan Mexican restaurant is a SoCal favorite, and they now have a location in San Francisco. They serve brunch, lunch, dinner, and dessert with seasonal menus, determined by what is currently available from their local Be Love Farm. Their cheeses and milks are made using nuts, and their tortillas and tamales are handmade from non-GMO Organic heirloom corn, some of which is grown on the Be Love Farm.
Hummus Bodega ⭐️ – Everything is dairy-free at this local Mediterranean shop. They make hummus bowls, pita sandwiches, plates, salads, and desserts.
Indochine Vegan ⭐️ – This all-vegan restaurant has a diverse Asian menu with a cross section of Americanized dishes.
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.
La Boulangerie – This legendary San Francisco bakery now makes their own vegan croissant toast bread.
Ladle & Leaf – In 2020, they turned to more of a pick-up model, and we aren’t sure if their cafes will reopen. Either way, they label their menu items for dairy-free ang gluten-free customers, and have a good selection of dairy-free soups, salads, and ready-made entrees.
Loving Hut ⭐️ – See our Loving Hut Post for more information on this vegan restaurant chain.
Mama Ji’s – This Chinese restaurant specializes in home-style Sichuan dishes. It was recommended by my friend Hannah for their delicious vegan options. Most of the menu is naturally dairy free.
Next Level Burger ⭐️ – This fledgling chain touts itself as America’s first fully vegan burger joint. It’s a counter-serve spot with an array of plant-based burgers, “chicken” sandwiches, fries, and tots. They also blend dairy-free shakes and have house-made soft serve. This location is inside Whole Foods.
Nourish Cafe ⭐️ – They have two locations, one near the Presidio and one near Union Square. Their menu is purely plant-based and dairy-free, with a healthy array of savory bowls, wraps, sandwiches, soups, toasts, smoothie bowls, and smoothies. They’re also well loved for their coffee and tea drinks, and rotating gluten-free baked goods and desserts.
Palm Acai Cafe – This is a great spot for acai bowls, smoothie bowls, and smoothies. At last check, their plant-based menu was dairy-free, but they do say they handle dairy (and other allergens) in their kitchen.
Pepples Donut Farm ⭐️ – You can’t leave the Bay Area without trying these artisanal vegan donuts. You might spot them at other stores or restaurants in the area, but they have a full shop in Oakland, and a kiosk in the SF ferry building.
Proper Food – Thank you to Amelia for letting us know they offer “to go meals for lunch and breakfast with gf & df options. They happily check their allergen list to help guests make choices.” They offer quick breakfasts, salads, hot plates, vegan wraps, and more, and have locations throughout the city.
Proposition Chicken – This is a local Bay Area chain. Their fried and fake (tofu) chicken is dairy-free. Their flipped chicken is dairy-free, but reheated in butter – just request “no butter” and they will use olive oil. All of their sandwiches and entrees are dairy-free or can be made dairy-free on request. They can also make a custom order kale salad. Just be sure to ask which dipping sauces are dairy-free when placing your order – they have options like chimichurri, bbq sauce, and habanero.
Reborn Coffee – This California cafe chain offers a menu of milk alternatives for your latte, a couple vegan pastries (like croissants!), and they have a line of their own ice cream with a dairy-free coconut cream flavor.
Sabra Grill ⭐️ – This glatt kosher restaurant is dairy free, and serves Israeli and Mediterranean cuisine. Their menu includes hummus plates, rice bowls, kabobs, other entrees and starters, and classic desserts.
Señor Sisig – They serve Filipino street food, most of which can be ordered dairy free. But they also offer a very full vegan menu.
Shizen Vegan Sushi Bar and Izakaya ⭐️ – The founders of Tataki Sushi and Sake Bar decided to tackle a completely plant-based Japanese restaurant. They offer creative sushi, comforting ramen, and more.
Tender Greens – Salads, bowls, sandwiches, and build-your-own plates are the specialty at this quintessentially California chain. Their menu boasts fresh and healthful cuisine with ample dairy-free, gluten-free, vegan, and other special diet options.
The Baked Bear – This is an ice cream sandwich shop where you choose the cookies and the ice cream. They offer a daily vegan ice cream flavor (like chocolate chip) and have a couple vegan and gluten-free cookie options.
The Mill – Fresh baked bread and coffee are the specialties at this wifi-free, unplugged spot. We’ve heard their almond milk lattes are fabulous, and best savored with toast and the baker’s house made almond butter. They also offer pastries with gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan options. And they have bread loaves, granola, and cookies to go.
The Plant Cafe Organic – They have a few locations dotted around the golden city, all serving local and sustainably-sourced cuisine. This isn’t a vegan restaurant, but they label vegan, gluten-free, and paleo options right on their expansive menu. Most items are, or can be made, dairy-free, including the breakfasts, bowls, smoothies, and more.
The View Lounge ⭐️ – They offer small plates and have dairy-free and gluten-free items clearly labeled. Dairy-free options can include seared tuna, roasted cauliflower, chicken adobo tacos, and more.
Veganburg – This 100% plant-based, dairy-free burger joint has two locations: San Francisco and Singapore. They have a big menu of vegan veggie burgers, various types of fries, some other meat-free dishes, soft serve, and cake.
Vida Cantina ⭐️ – This is a plant-based Mexican restaurant with a purely vegan menu. They have a cheesy main menu, with dishes like jalapeno poppers and tacos with queso and creama. They also offer good deals for Taco Tuesday and Happy Hour.
Wholesome Bakery ⭐️ – Everything they make is vegan, gluten-free, soy-free, low glycemic, and made with organic and sustainable ingredients. You might actually spot their cookies, cakes, and brownies at variouos Bay Area grocers, and they ship nationwide. But they also have a cafe filled with even more freshly-baked sweets and savories.
Wildseed ⭐️ – Enjoy seasonal vegan cuisine and craft cocktails in a warm botanical setting. They offer next level comfort foods, like pizza with cashew mozzarella and truffled bechamel, alongside garden-inspired salads and shareables. They also serve brunch and dessert.
Zpizza – This regional build-your-own pizza chain is very friendly to special diets. They offer Daiya vegan cheese alternative, use vegan dough, offer a vegan, gluten-free pizza crust, and have Beyond Meat crumbles. You can also choose organic tomato sauce, housemade marinara sauce, or housemade roasted garlic sauce, and top it with any non-cheese toppings for “just dairy free.” At last check, everything on their menu was dairy-free, except the dairy cheeses, ranch dressings, caesar dressing, basil pesto sauce, and meatballs. But confirm in store before ordering!

San Francisco Airport

Amy’s – They serve several of their organic veggie burgers, soups, and chilis. They even offer non-dairy shakes!
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.

San Jose

Boba Guys – See our Boba Guys Dairy-Free Info for full details.
Cinnaholic – See our Cinnaholic Dairy-Free Info for full details.
CREAM Nation ⭐️ – Although this is a traditional ice cream sandwich shop, they do offer some vegan goodies. On the menu, you should see at least a couple dairy-free, plant-based ice cream flavors. And to make your dairy-free ice cream sandwich experience complete, they have a nice little selection of vegan cookies. Once your dairy-free dessert is assembled, it can be rolled in or garnished with select dairy-free toppings. Alternatively, you can order scoops, sundaes, shakes, and coffee drinks at this cool spot.
Forest & Flour ⭐️ – This home-based bakery operates by orders and pick-ups and also sells at several farmers markets in the Bay Area. Their facility is completely dairy-free and gluten-free, and everything they bake is also peanut-free, soy-free, and corn-free. They bake a big array of breads and pastries, have some vegan options, and also take custom cake orders.
Happiness Cafe – Everything is vegan at this local lunch and dinner spot. They serve a selection of sandwiches, pasta, Asian dishes, and snacks.
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.
JINYA Ramen Bar – Believe it or not, many ramen bases contain milk. But JINYA offers a couple vegan ramen options and most of their ramen dishes, soups, and expansive small plates are dairy-free. They have a great comprehensive allergen chart.
Loving Hut ⭐️ – See our Loving Hut Post for more information on this vegan restaurant chain.
Más Veggies Vegan Taqueria ⭐️ – This all-vegan taco chain offers tacos, burritos, bowls, nachos, and taco salads with a modern plant-based spin. They’re available at Veggie Grill locations.
Pizza Flora – This is a vegetarian pizza restaurant offering vegan cheese at no extra charge.
Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.
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.
Proposition Chicken – This is a local Bay Area chain. Their fried and fake (tofu) chicken is dairy-free. Their flipped chicken is dairy-free, but reheated in butter – just request “no butter” and they will use olive oil. All of their sandwiches and entrees are dairy-free or can be made dairy-free on request. They can also make a custom order kale salad. Just be sure to ask which dipping sauces are dairy-free when placing your order – they have options like chimichurri, bbq sauce, and habanero.
The Counter – They have a few outposts in other U.S. states, but The Counter is primarily a California burger chain with an expansive vegan menu. They even offer vegan cheese. Consequently, their burgers and many other savory items can be made dairy-free on request.
The Giving Pies – They have prolific special diet menus, including a dairy-free, gluten-free pie menu and a vegan pie menu. The options include various types of crumble-topped fruit pies that come in mini pies and full-size pies.
Vegan Bistro Donuts and Cafe ⭐️ – Thanks to Kim for letting us know about this all-vegan donut shop in downtown San Jose. “The donuts taste just as good (if not better!) than regular donuts!” They offer raised, cake, old-fashioned, and other specialty donuts in a range of flavors. They also serve some tea and coffee drinks.
Veggie Grill ⭐️ – This vegan fast-casual restaurant chain serves burgers, sandwiches, bowls, salads, and plant-based variations on popular dishes. Their selection ranges from fresh and healthy to comfort food. They also have a menu of desserts.

San Leandro

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.

San Mateo

Earthbar – This wellness shop also contains a dairy-free juice and smoothie bar, where you can also order vegan waffles and toasts (with various toppings – including almondmilk ricotta), superfood bowls, and coffee drinks.
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.
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.
Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.

San Ramon

Boba Guys – See our Boba Guys Dairy-Free Info for full details.
Earthbar – This wellness shop also contains a dairy-free juice and smoothie bar, where you can also order vegan waffles and toasts (with various toppings – including almondmilk ricotta), superfood bowls, and coffee drinks.
Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.

Santa Clara

California’s Great America – This amusement park is filled with quick serve restaurants, and they provide special dietary guides for each one. In the park, you can find dairy-free burgers (with vegan options), hot dogs, chicken tenders, burrito bowls, meat entrees, cotton candy, ICEEs, and popcorn.
Din Tai Fung – This is an upscale Taiwanese chain that specializes in Chinese Huaiyang cuisine. They offer a full allergen and special diet chart, and, at last check, all of their savory menu items were dairy-free and all but one of their sweet bao was dairy-free (most are vegan!). They do use milk in some beverage items.
Läderach – These Swiss chocolate shops now offer a full dairy-free and vegan line with various dark and cashewmilk chocolate options. The decadent collection includes bars, all types of barks, and some other confections.
Loving Hut ⭐️ – See our Loving Hut Post for more information on this vegan restaurant chain.
Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.
Tender Greens – Salads, bowls, sandwiches, and build-your-own plates are the specialty at this quintessentially California chain. Their menu boasts fresh and healthful cuisine with ample dairy-free, gluten-free, vegan, and other special diet options.

Santa Cruz

Cat & Cloud – This coffee shop offers treats like vegan coffee cake plus savory breakfast burritos and other light bites. They offer a few types of milk alternatives.
Hula’s Island Grill – See our Monterey listing above – this is their second location. It’s a fun, casual tiki restaurant with a broad menu of pupus, drinks, and entrees. Their menu contains a lot of naturally dairy-free dishes, and they have a separate gluten-free menu.
Mutari Chocolate ⭐️ – This chocoholic shop is filled with dairy-free and vegan options. They offer dairy-free truffles, mochas complete with coconut whip, chocolate oat milk, and dairy-free ice cream soft serve and pints.
Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.
Staff of Life – This is a natural food grocer that carries a great selection of special diet products, and also offers gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan fresh baked goodies.
Veg on the Edge ⭐️ – Their casual vegan menu is an interesting fusion of West African, American, and Mexican cuisines.
Woodstock Pizza – They have dairy-free and gluten-free pizza options, including Daiya cheese alternative.

Sausalito

Bean Sprouts Cafe – They are located inside the Bay Area Discovery Museum, and focus on amazing kid-friendly cuisine. Their playful menu boasts options for various special diet needs, including dairy-free, gluten-free, and even vegan.

Sebastopol

Muir’s Tea Room & Coffee Shop ⭐️ – Whether you a tea lover or not, you’ll probably appreciate this 100% vegan establishment. They have high tea with finger sandwiches and pastries galore, but also offer a full coffee bar, and wonderful full lunches and dinners. Gluten-free options are available.
Screamin’ Mimi’s – Their scoop menu includes a big selection of dairy-free sorbets, which can include chocolate, mocha, lavender, and various fruity flavors.
The Nectary ⭐️ – Healthy is the focus at this juice and smoothie bar. They offer an array of house-made milks, superfood smoothies and lattes, water kefir, kombucha, and wellness shots. They also have a relatively petite menu of raw foods and smoothie bowls. Their menu, at last check, was dairy-free and mostly vegan (they do use bee products).
The Slice of Life – Viewer Sarah sent us this recommendation. It’s a purely vegetarian and egg-free restaurant that does serve cheese, but they also offer several types of dairy-free and vegan cheese alternatives for their broad menu. In fact, many menu items are made with their chipotle cashew cheese. They serve everything from burgers to Mexican to pizzas and Italian food, and have many gluten-free options.

South Lake Tahoe

Fire + Ice – Janet recommended this restaurant for dairy-free lunch, dinner, and brunch options. It’s a Mongolian BBQ type place, but they offer a global array of flavors. Since you pick your own ingredients, it makes it easy to order without dairy and choose the right sauces. Janet said, “If the grill has already been used or is being used for things that shouldn’t be anywhere near my food, they take mine to the back and cook it in a separate pan and deliver it to my table.”
Sprouts Cafe – The food is fresh, the staff is hopping, and the people keep on coming at this fast casual sandwich, rice bowl, salad, burrito, and breakfast shop. Their menu is mostly vegetarian, but they also offer turkey and tuna (not dairy-free). They have a plethora of vegan and dairy-free options (including dairy-free cheese alternative), and can easily make most menu items dairy-free and even gluten-free upon request. The daily soups are almost always vegan. They also squeeze and blend fresh juices and smoothies, and have soy protein powder and dairy-free milk alternative on the menu.
The Baked Bear – This is an ice cream sandwich shop where you choose the cookies and the ice cream. They offer a daily vegan ice cream flavor (like chocolate chip) and have a couple vegan and gluten-free cookie options.

Sunnyvale

Merit Vegan Restaurant ⭐️ – This is a vegan Asian restaurant with some Americanized twists. Their menu is broad, and includes many Vietnamese, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese inspired dishes. But they also serve a big range of desserts, including cheesecake, cupcakes, brownies, and much more.
Zpizza – This regional build-your-own pizza chain is very friendly to special diets. They offer Daiya vegan cheese alternative, use vegan dough, offer a vegan, gluten-free pizza crust, and have Beyond Meat crumbles. You can also choose organic tomato sauce, housemade marinara sauce, or housemade roasted garlic sauce, and top it with any non-cheese toppings for “just dairy free.” At last check, everything on their menu was dairy-free, except the dairy cheeses, ranch dressings, caesar dressing, basil pesto sauce, and meatballs. But confirm in store before ordering!

St. Helena

Gott’s Roadside – Jenna at The Urben Life recommended this as a must stop spot. “It’s great food, a fun atmosphere, and if you sit out front you can catch the Napa Wine Train roll by. I suggest the plant-based impossible burger!” They actually serve a whole menu of beef and Impossible burgers, but you do have to special order them dairy-free or vegan. They offer an egg bun, vegan bun, and lettuce wrap.

Sunnyvale

Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.

Turlock

Yogurt Mill – They offer dairy-free soft serve in creamy (made with oat milk), sorbet, and acai varieties. Depending on the day and location, they might have 2 to 5 dairy-free flavor options. They also offer non-dairy fudge sauce and a good selection of toppings.

Walnut Creek

Burger Lounge – This SoCal chain serves grass-fed burgers alongside a whole menu of vegan burgers. They offer vegan buns, dairy-free cheese, and bunless paleo and keto options. Select locations (check in advance) offer dairy-free milkshakes and root beer floats made with cashew milk ice cream.
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).
CREAM Nation ⭐️ – Although this is a traditional ice cream sandwich shop, they do offer some vegan goodies. On the menu, you should see at least a couple dairy-free, plant-based ice cream flavors. And to make your dairy-free ice cream sandwich experience complete, they have a nice little selection of vegan cookies. Once your dairy-free dessert is assembled, it can be rolled in or garnished with select dairy-free toppings. Alternatively, you can order scoops, sundaes, shakes, and coffee drinks at this cool spot.
Gott’s Roadside – They have an extensive menu of burgers that you can order with beef, turkey, or vegan Impossible patties. You do need to custom order for dairy-free and vegan, but they do offer a vegan bun and lettuce wrap. Their menu also includes various salads, tacos, poke, and more.
Havana – They serve Cuban food with California influences, and their lunch and dinner menus include quite a few dairy-free options.
Más Veggies Vegan Taqueria ⭐️ – This all-vegan taco chain offers tacos, burritos, bowls, nachos, and taco salads with a modern plant-based spin. They’re available at Veggie Grill locations.
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.
Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.
Rooted Coffee Co ⭐️ – Thank you to Kellie for recommending this vegan coffee shop. She says they have “great coffee, food, and baked goods.” And “their scones are so good I had to ask to confirm they are dairy free!” They have a full menu of milk beverages to choose from, and have a full menu of toasts, salads, yogurt parfaits, gluten-free waffles, and pastries. They say all items can be ordered gluten free.
The Counter – They have a few outposts in other U.S. states, but The Counter is primarily a California burger chain with an expansive vegan menu. They even offer vegan cheese. Consequently, their burgers and many other savory items can be made dairy-free on request.
True Food Kitchen – See our True Food Kitchen Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Veggie Grill ⭐️ – This vegan fast-casual restaurant chain serves burgers, sandwiches, bowls, salads, and plant-based variations on popular dishes. Their selection ranges from fresh and healthy to comfort food. They also have a menu of desserts.

Watsonville

Staff of Life – This is a natural food grocer that carries a great selection of special diet products, and also offers gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan fresh baked goodies.

Photo from Mr. Dewie’s Cashew Creamery in Albany, Emeryville, and Oakland, California

Restaurant & Grocery Chains found throughout Northern California

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.

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.
HumYum – They make confections in Humboldt county, including vegan caramel and chocolate sauces.
Ike’s Sandwich Shops – See our Ike’s Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt – See our Menchie’s Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Mimi’s Cafe – We don’t recommend them for breakfast, but a few readers have recommended this chain for lunch. They offer some good dairy-free salad and custom order sandwich options.
MOD Pizza – See our MOD Pizza Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Philz Coffee – See our Philz Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Pieology Pizzeria – See our Pieology Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain offers three vegan pizzas on their menu, each with Miyoko’s mozzarella. Most other pizzas can be ordered dairy-free, and they do offer faux meats for vegan guests. You can also custom order dairy-free breadsticks and salads.
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.
Pressed Juicery – See our Pressed Juicery Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Straw Hat Pizza – Participating stores offer a vegan-gluten-free crust and Daiya dairy-free cheese, and they offer a few vegan pizza sauces.. According to their allergen information, they also offer dairy-free wings (bone in and boneless), fries, onion rings, breadsticks, and other bites.
The Habit Burger – See our Habit Burger Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.

Photo from Proposition Chicken in Lafayette, Menlo Park, Oakland, San Francisco, and San Jose, California

Local Dairy-Free Food & Drink Producers in Northern California

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

Amy’s – You should have no problem finding their frozen foods in nearly every store in the area. This big, family-run, vegetarian company is located in Petaluma, and make many vegan frozen entrees, pizzas, and more.
Beber Almondmilk – They make fresh almondmilk and cold brew in a range of flavors and sell locally (throughout the greater Bay Area and Sacramento area) in shops and at farmer’s markets.
Bread SRSLY – This gluten-free sourdough bread company uses traditional methods to ferment their breads for a truly unique taste and experience. Their breads are also vegan and top allergen-free.
Double Rainbow – This San Francisco ice creamery has been making a line of dairy-fee pints for many years. They make soy-based vanilla and mint chip, sorbets, and more recently added an oatmilk ice cream.
Eclipse Foods – This is a plant-based ice cream company that makes “cowlessly creamy” pints without milk, eggs, or tree nuts.
Green Girl Bakeshop – They make plant-based gelato and dairy-free, gluten-free ice cream sandwiches. You can buy their treats in local stores or online.
Kite Hill – They call Hayward home, but you can find their dairy-free yogurts, dips, cheeses, butter, filled pastas and more in cities throughout America. Nevertheless, you’ll find the best selection in the Bay Area.
Miyoko’s – This Petaluma company is well known for their range of vegan cheese alternatives.
Monterey Gourmet Foods – They make organic frozen dinners with a few plant-based options (like alfredo), and also make a vegan sun-dried tomato pesto.
Ripple Foods – Keep an eye out for their dairy-free ice creams, they were top rated in our blind taste test! They also make popular pea milk products.
The Healthy Baking Company – Previously known as “California Suncakes,” this healthy snack maker focuses on vegan, gluten-free bars. They offer a few types, including The Healthy Energy Bar, Coffeehouse Bars, and Maxaroons.
The Inspired Cookie Co – They bake vegan, gluten-free, nut-free cookies and brownies, which are sold in some cafes, packaged in local shops, and shipped to customers nationwide.
Vixen Kitchen – This vegan gelato company is based in Santa Cruz. They make nut-based ice creams, sweetened with maple syrup.
Yoconut – This is a local area, dairy-free, low-sugar, coconut milk yogurt brand that uses live active cultures.

Photo from Yoconut

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.