Last Update in May 2023! We’ve created this ever-growing guide to restaurants, bakeries, cafes, ice cream shops, and stores in Texas that are friendly to dairy-free diners. It’s a collection based on research and reader recommendations (send yours!) that’s divided into restaurants & shops by city (first) and major chains found throughout the state (second). And we’ve started a section for specialty dairy-free foods produced in this state.
We Update Continuously! You can ignore the original date on this post going forward. We update the information below whenever we’re alerted to a new recommendation, change, or closure.
Dairy-Free Texas Guide: 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.)
Abilene
- Grumps Burgers – Kara wrote in to tell us about her favorite burger spot before going dairy free. Fortunately, they were happy to help her with dairy-free options, too. Their buns are dairy-free, and they use oil, not butter, to toast them. The French fries and sweet potato fries are cooked in the same fryer as dairy-containing items (like their onion rings and corn nuggets), so use caution if cross-contamination is a concern. Kara says, “I would always double check before ordering but this burger place is too tasty to not have on the list.”
- 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.
- Roll Shack – This rolled ice cream shop offers a coconut milk dairy-free base and plenty of dairy-free mix ins.
Addison
- Cinnaholic ⭐️ – This is an all-vegan bakery chain that focuses on cinnamon rolls, with choose your own icing and decadent toppings. They have other pastries, coffee, and soft serve, too.
- 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.
- Snooze A.M. Eatery – They serve some plant-powered, dairy-free menu items, like vegan pancakes, tofu scramble, porridge, and buddha bowls. Some additional dishes can be custom ordered dairy free.
Allen
- I Love Juice Bar ⭐️ – They blend dairy-free smoothies, acai bowls, and smoothie bowls, offer a range of juices and healthy shots, have overnight oats, and also serve vegan-friendly soups.
- 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.
- Mi Cocina – They offer a mini vegan menu within their menu that includes two types of tacos and a smothered fajita dish. Additional items can be ordered dairy free, and their staff is reportedly quite helpful.
- Original ChopShop – This healthy eating chain serves several dairy-free protein bowls, acai and pitaya bowls, chia puddings, and a few breakfast eats. Many yo their wraps and sandwiches can also be custom ordered without dairy, since they do have dairy-free bread and tortilla options, and they also have dairy-free, gluten-free tortillas. They offer a fairly good allergen filters and menus, but you do have to inquire for custom orders.
- 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.
Amarillo
- 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.”
- The Acai Bar ⭐️ – All of their bowls and smoothies are dairy-free and soy-free, and they com in a very colorful array of options. Some of their sourdough toasts are made with cheese, but they offer a few dairy-free toast options.
Arlington
- Cinnaholic ⭐️ – This is an all-vegan bakery chain that focuses on cinnamon rolls, with choose your own icing and decadent toppings. They have other pastries, coffee, and soft serve, too.
- Globe Life Field – This Major Baseball League Stadium serves Oatly dairy-free soft serve at Going Going Green on the lower concourse level and Karbach Skyporch on the upper concourse level. The stadium also has a vegan cart called Veggie Happy, which serves vegan burgers, nachos, hot dogs, jerky, chili, wraps, salads, and fresh-cut fruit.
- 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.
- 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.
Austin
- Amy’s Ice Creams – Enjoy classic vanilla and chocolate dairy-free ice cream made with oat milk or coconut milk (your choice!) plus Oreo coconut milk ice cream. They also serve sorbet-like fruit ices.
- Angel’s Donuts and Treats – Thanks to Scott P. for recommending this bake shop. “A small mom and pop bakery in Northwest Austin, they are only open for breakfast and lunch. Normal and dairy free donuts (most vegan) on the menu, usually about half of each on the shelf. Closed on Wednesdays.”
- Anthem – Their eclectic global menu includes several vegan labeled items (ie multiple pupus, sides, root burger), and additional dishes that can be ordered without dairy.
- Anti Social Icecream Co. ⭐️ – Formerly known as Vicecreme, this vegan shop scoops local ice cream (aka Nadamoo) in a big range of dairy-free flavors. They also make frozen treats like banana splits and vegan ice cream sandwiches.
- Arlo’s ⭐️ – Burgers, tacos, frito pie, and all your favorite American sides are available at this local vegan restaurant.
- Bambu – This is a Vietnamese drink chain that specializes in authentic Chè, with many naturally dairy-free and vegan flavors (made with coconut milk). They also offer dairy-free options (coconut milk or almond milk) for their milk teas, coffee drinks, and smoothies.
- Bananarchy – If you’re craving a frozen banana, dipped in vegan chocolate, and rolled in toppings, then just look for one of their carts. They have three seasonal food trailer locations and they offer year-round catering. Reader Liz says she had them roll it in crushed coffee beans for breakfast!
- Barley Bean – This cafe and coffee house offers a full vegan menu with bowls, pizza, tacos, breakfast sandwiches, and more. And that doesn’t even include their dairy-free smoothies, and additional menu items that can be ordered without dairy. They also offer four dairy-free milk beverages and have several specialty dairy-free coffee drinks on their menu.
- Bennu Coffee – Whether it’s three in the morning or afternoon, you can get a dairy-free drink and bite at this 24 hour coffee shop. They have two Austin locations, both offering dairy-free milk beverage and a special vegan iced coffee (the Vennu), serving vegan pastries from local bakeries, and making eats that include vegan pizzas and wraps.
- Big Nonna’s ⭐️ – Li’l Nonna’s food truck and Sweet Ritual (bakery listed below) have come together to create this vegan pizzeria. Their pizzas have unique toppings like beet “pepperoni” and pumpkin seed cheese alternatives. And they’re also serving dairy-free ice cream made with a variety or rich bases. The menu also features salads and appetizers, along with dedicated gluten-free and soy-free items.
- Bistro Vonish ⭐️ – They tout their restaurant as “elevated vegan cuisine,” but their menu is actually quite casual. It boasts sandwiches, mac and cheeses, salads, and a few more inspired items like arepas and kolache. They also bake classic sweets, like cinnamon rolls and chocolate chip cookies.
- 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.
- Bougie’s Donuts & Coffee – They offer vegan blueberry and birthday cake donuts plus a few dairy-free milk beverage options for your coffee.
- Bouldin Creek Cafe – This is a from-scratch vegetarian restaurant with vegan options for almost every dish on their expansive breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus. They even offer vegan cream cheese for bagels, other cheesy alternatives for sandwiches and appetizers, vegan butter for bread, and four types of dairy-free milk beverages for making drinks. And for dessert, they source sweets from local vegan bakeries. According to reader Dusty, the servers also go above and beyond to confirm daiy-free orders.
- 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.
- Capital City Bakery ⭐️ – The baked goods at this all-vegan bakeshop range from breakfast sweets and savories to pretty cakes and cupcakes.
- Casa de Luz ⭐️ – Thanks to Liz for recommending this vegan, macrobiotic restaurant. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but their daily menu changes often. However, it’s always plant-heavy, nutrient-rich, and hand-crafted with organic ingredients. We’ve been told that their meals are also gluten-free, and that they are very allergy aware if the staff is notified.
- Cidercade – This adult arcade offers vegan cheese and a substantial selection of vegetable toppings. They also have dozens of hard ciders on tap and we’ve heard their smoked wings are dairy-free, but check! This is a cashless arcade and restaurant.
- Cinnaholic ⭐️ – This is an all-vegan bakery chain that focuses on cinnamon rolls, with choose your own icing and decadent toppings. They have other pastries, coffee, and soft serve, too.
- Citizen Eatery ⭐️ – Thanks to Hannah of Bittersweet for recommending this vegan restaurant. “Go healthy or go all-in on indulgence; this menu runs the gamut, covering new American brunch classics, keto-friendly bowls, fried BBQ mushrooms, and more.” One of her favorites is the Chorizo Omelette.
- Conscious Cravings ⭐️ – Enjoy hot wraps, cool salads, and cold smoothies at this all-vegan restaurant. They can also turn any wrap into a salad, which offers some more gluten-free bean-based options. But the meat alternatives they use are primarily wheat based.
- Dear Diary Coffee ⭐️ – In addition to their coffee bar, this is a vegan deli with their own house-made eats plus goodies sold from local vegan bakers.
- El Chilito – This from-scratch Mexican-style restaurant serves breakfast all day, tacos, puffy tacos, and more, with dairy-free options throughout and vegan options, too.
- Fat Cats Coffee & Desserts ⭐️ – Thanks to Karen for recommending this plant-based, dairy-free coffeehouse, bakery, and ice cream shop. They have about six different dairy-free milk options, have several ice cream flavor and dessert options, and offer various sweet and savory baked goods daily, including donuts and croissants. They also bake custom order cakes, pies, and tarts.
- Flower Child – This healthy restaurant chain serves salads, bowls, and plates with choose your own protein and side options. Their modern “hippie” menu is loaded with organic produce, whole grains (gluten-free, too), and house dressings. Their menu is littered with vegan and paleo options, and most items either are, or can be made dairy-free on request. They have a few locations in Austin.
- Forking Vegan ⭐️ – This farm to fork spot serves a unique brunch with all the comfort foods, like waffles, biscuits and gravy, breakfast burritos.
- Gati Bakery – We broke out the bakery from the ice cream shop, because the bakery is 100% gluten-free, but not completely vegan. It’s mostly vegan, with a selection of vegan brownies, s’mores bars, and cakes on special order.
- Gati Ice Cream ⭐️ – All of their ice cream flavors are vegan and gluten-free, and made with a coconut milk base. They have dozens of flavors on rotation, from pandan to cake batter.
- Guero’s Taco Bar – It’s billed as a tourist destination, but locals love this lively Mexican restaurant, too. They offer separate vegan and gluten-free menus that are quite abundant. They even offer cashew queso, and state “Many items on our regular menu can be vegan. Just ask your server to help with modifications.” Which means, most items can be made dairy-free on request!
- Happy Chicks – They offer dairy-free grilled chicken items and vegan “chicken” options. They also label vegan sauces (with choices like vegan ranch and buffalo), and have a couple additional “just dairy free” sauce options.
- 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.
- Hopdoddy Burger Bar – Their focus is clear, and their menu is transparent. They tell you what allergens are in each component of each burger! They offer vegan wheat buns and vegan cheese, so most of their craft burgers can be custom ordered without dairy. They also have a vegan burger on the menu. At last check, other shareables, like crispy tenders and fries, were also 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.
- 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.
- Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream – See our Jeni’s Dairy-Free Guide for full details.
- 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.
- JuiceLand – This used to be a dairy-free smoothie shop and coffee bar, but they have added Perfect Day whey protein to their menu. So their equipment is now mixed. They do still offer dairy-free options for every menu item, with almond mylk and hemp mylk along with many healthy mix-ins. They also make a whole menu of vegan meals, with bowls, burritos, and other specialty dishes. You’ll spot their locations around the city.
- Kerbey Lane Cafe – This Austin favorite has three locations, and big breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus that are liberally dotted with vegan options. Dusty shared this recommendation with us, “Vegan pancakes, queso, and much more! The waiters at Kerbey Lane Cafe are always willing to help plan a delicious dairy-free meal. The pancakes are delicious and change weekly!” They also offer tacos, burgers, chili, and rumor has it, they often have a vegan dessert.
- Knead Doughnuts & Coffee ⭐️ – These vegan doughnut bakers don’t have a retail shop, but they take orders for pick up and appear at local pop ups.
- 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.
- Lick Honest Ice Creams ⭐️ – This is a traditional ice creamery, but they also have vegan, gluten-free ice cream sandwiches and a small range of creamy, dairy-free and vegan house-made ice creams. They’re each made with coconut milk, and come in flavors like vanilla, chocolate chocolate, and caramel brownie swirl. They also make their own sauces in house, and usually at least one or two of them is dairy free. But skip the waffle cones and bowls, as they are made with butter.
- Luv Fats Ice Cream ⭐️ – This is a small batch vegan ice cream company that uses a base of coconut milk and avocados. You can find them at Bee’s Grocery daily and at the local Texas Farmer’s Market on Sundays.
- Mad Greens – They have a great allergen chart, and most of their salads, grain bowls, and wraps can be ordered dairy-free, simply by omitting the cheese and swapping the sauce/dressing if needed. They also have build-your-own options.
- Milky Way Shakes ⭐️ – You’ll be on cloud nine when you find this humble little vegan food trailer (in the Vegan Nom food truck lot). Their dairy-free milkshakes are made from a special blend of almond milk and coconut milk, and they make all of their vegan ice cream, sauces, and syrups in house. They even source local ingredients, feature seasonal flavors all year long, and have special touches, like crunchy egg-free meringue toppings.
- Mission Street Burrito ⭐️ – Their all-vegan menu includes breakfast burritos, mac & cheese burritos, and more, along with nachos, suizas, salads, and crunchwraps.
- 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.
- Mr. Natural ⭐️ – This casual vegetarian café and vegan bakery serves a big range of American and Mexican vegan dishes. They have vegan waffles, fried chic’n and biscuits, migas, enchiladas, and much more. Their bakery case is quite big, with an array of muffins, cakes, empanadas, cookies, and other pastries. They als have a full range of gluten-free options, and take custom cake orders. They have two locations, one in East Austin and one in the South of the city.
- Nancy’s Sky Garden ⭐️ – Thanks to Mara for letting us know about this dairy-free restaurant. They serve modern, healthy, Asian-inspired plates, poke bowls, and soups.
- Nervous Charlie’s – They offer plain and flavored vegan cream cheese and have a range of dairy-free bagels at this simple bagel shop. They can make a few sandwiches dairy-free, like their bagel with lox, and also have a vegan Treehugger bagel sandwich right on the menu.
- 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.
- Nissi VegMex ⭐️ – My friend Hannah of Bittersweet recommended this all-vegan establishment. “Blowing the doors of conventional brick-and-mortar Mexican and Tex-Mex restaurants, this unassuming trailer is cranking out mind-bending birria tacos, flautas, and nachos that no one would know were vegan. Don’t miss their hempchata (that’s hemp-based horchata) to take the edge of those spicy entrees.”
- Picnik ⭐️ – This is a gluten-free, peanut-free, refined sugar-free cafe that goes above and beyond for special diets. They have a very detailed allergen chart that tells you exactly which ingredient contains the allergen to help make custom ordering easier. Most of their menu is dairy-free, and they also highlight paleo, keto, and plant-based options. They have a few locations around the city. Some locations are open breakfast and lunch, while some are brunch, lunch, and dinner, so be sure to plan accordingly.
- Project Pollo ⭐️ – Hannah of Bittersweet also recommended this local vegan “chicken” chain to us. “Right now they’re a homegrown chain with just a handful of locations spread through San Antonio and Austin, but they’re hell-bent on putting Chick-Fil-A out of business. They actually have a fighting chance with their unbelievably crispy, juicy meatless sandwiches, served up at downright affordable prices.” She has photos here.
- Rabbit Food Grocery ⭐️ – This is an all-vegan grocery store with produce, supplements, and dairy-free specialty items galore.
- Rebel Cheese ⭐️ – Thanks to Scott for recommending this “fully vegan restaurant in the Domain area. They specialize in cheese and “Classic” dishes gone vegan – burgers, soups, chowders, etc. You can also buy vegan cheeses and platters separately to make your own creations.”
- Revolution Vegan Kitchen ⭐️ – This restaurant is over-the-top with alternatives to popular comfort food. From mozzarella sticks to Philly cheesesteaks, they have cheesy and meaty cravings covered.
- Rockstar Bagels – In addition to numerous dairy-free bagel varieties, they offer vegan cream cheese, hummus, peanut butter, and three flavors of jam for shmearing. They also have a great selection of toppings and bagel sandwiches, including vegan lox.
- Rosen’s Bagels – Arguably the best bagels in Austin, their shops also offer vegan schmear, peanut butter, and jam for dairy-free customers.
- Smokin’ Oak – This wood-fired pizzeria and taproom chain offers vegan cheese and an eclectic selection of toppings.
- Snap Kitchen – They offer healthy pre-made meals with clearly marked ingredients and allergens. Many of their meals are dairy-free, and they even offer several paleo and gluten-free options. They have their own stores, but their meal are also available in Whole Foods in this region.
- Snooze A.M. Eatery – They serve some plant-powered, dairy-free menu items, like vegan pancakes, tofu scramble, porridge, and buddha bowls. Some additional dishes can be custom ordered dairy free.
- Summer Moon Coffee – This cozy coffee house makes a signature moon milk, or sweet cream, that they can make dairy-free with oat, soy, almond or coconut milk.
- Sweet Paris Cafe – As you might expect, they specialize in crepes. But they surprise special diet guests with options for vegan, gluten & dairy-free batter. Their sweet and savory toppings lean heavily toward cream and cheese, but you can customize your order.
- Sunny’s Backyard ⭐️ – This is touted as Austin’s first vegan pub. You can read a good review of them on Bittersweet. Their menu is a mix of shareables, handhelds, and bowls.
- Tellus Joe ⭐️ – I learned about this plant-based kitchen and coffee bar from my friend Hannah. They serve tacos, sandwiches, pastries, and have a full coffee bar.
- Terry Black’s BBQ ⭐️ – We appreciate the menu labels for dairy-free (and gluten-free). This isn’t a prime spot for sandwiches or desserts, but they do offer dairy-free BBQ platters with sides to fill you up.
- Thai Fresh ⭐️ – This isn’t just a Thai food restaurant. Sure, they have a wonderful authentic menu of Thai entrees and bites. But they also serve breakfast and brunch, with a fusion feel (American, Mexican, and Thai), and they have a vegan and gluten-free bakery on site. They bake American favorite, some French pastries, and Thai-influenced treats. But wait, there’s more. You’ll also find house-made, award-winning vegan ice cream here in an array of rotating flavors.
- 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 Beer Plant ⭐️ – Thank you to Scott for recommending this gastropub, “originally marketed as the first “date night” vegan restaurant and brewery, their entire menu is fully vegan. Open for dinner daily and brunch on the weekends. Also have a wide variety of locally brewed alcohols – beer, wines, etc. They also have rotating specials at least monthly, sometimes weekly.”
- The Parlor – Enjoy pizza and beer at this old school hang out. They offer build-your-own vegan pizzas, and have dairy-free meat toppings too. They also have vegan garlic cheese bread.
- The Salty Donut – They typically have a unique vegan brioche donut flavor or two, like dark chocolate passion fruit or brown sugar blondie. This bakery chain also has a full coffee bar with milk alternatives and several vegan syrups.
- The Vegan Nom ⭐️ – As the name implies, this is an all-vegan food truck. They specialize in tacos, but also serve nachos, burritos, and quesadillas. They have a rather lengthy menu for a food truck.
- The Vegan Yacht ⭐️ – My friend Hannah of Bittersweet recommended this all-vegan restaurant to us. “Definitely come hungry, because whether you order a burrito or a bowl, it’ll be a mountainous order of food coming at you. You can snag the Texan staple, a frito pie here, without any of the usual animal-based trappings but all of the savory decadence.” In addition to their big savory menu, they also offer soft serve that’s made in house.
- The Yard Milkshake Bar – This growing chain serves ridiculously indulgent milkshakes, and they have vegan options on their menu. We spotted this crazy chocolate concoction made with oat milk ice cream, chocolate soymilk, dairy-free whip, and vegan cookies. You can also build your own shake. They usually have a couple creamy dairy-free ice cream flavors available.
- True Food Kitchen – See our True Food Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
- Unicorniverse Vegan Bakery ⭐️ – They operate under the Texas cottage law, so they don’t have a storefront, but they often have pop-ups at various coffee shops in Austin and you can order their French macarons and pastries.
- Vegan vs Fries ⭐️ – This is a spin-off from Man vs Fries that offers a Mexican-inspired, vegan menu of fries, burritos, quesadillas, and more. They work on order and pick-up or delivery only.
- Via 313 – This rising pizza chain offers dairy-free pizza dough, cheese alternative, and even has a cheeseless pizza on the menu. You can even order their dessert cinnamon sticks without dairy. They also have a gluten-free vegan pizza crust option.
- Voodoo Doughnut – This unique doughnut chain out of Oregon offers several vegan doughnut flavors daily, which can include maple bars, cream filled, apple fritters, and other creative raised and iced varieties. They also bake a vegan cake doughnut, and can make almost any donut vegan if you order ahead. However, they don’t offer any gluten-free donuts.
- Wheatsville Food Co-op – Their on-site deli caters to dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan customers, and they also have vegan baked goods, like donuts. And of course, they carry many special diet foods.
- Yummi Joy – They scoop Sweet Ritual vegan ice cream, can blend dairy-free shakes and floats, offer some vegan fudge, and have two sweet shops with many dairy-free and vegan candy options.
- Zucchini Kill ⭐️ – This punk rock bakery is dairy-free, egg-free, gluten-free, soy-free, and vegan! They whip up a unique selection of cupcakes, swiss rolls, donuts, and more – like graveyard dirt cupakes, cream coffin cakes, and golden mylk donuts.
Bandera
- Peachwave – If you’re craving something cool and creamy, pop into this froyo chain for some dairy-free Dole Whip or sorbet soft serve! They usually have a few flavors each day.
Bellaire
- JuiceLand – This used to be a dairy-free smoothie shop and coffee bar, but they have added Perfect Day whey protein to their menu. So their equipment is now mixed. They do still offer dairy-free options for every menu item, with almond mylk and hemp mylk along with many healthy mix-ins. They also make a whole menu of vegan meals, with bowls, burritos, and other specialty dishes. You’ll spot their locations around the city.
- Pinks Pizza – They offer dairy-free mozzarella and gluten-free pizza dough, so almost any pizza on their menu can be made dairy-free and gluten-free.
- The Bagel Shop Bakery – Thanks to Danielle for this recommendation. “The Bagel Shop Bakery offers a wide selection of dairy free (pareve) pastries, bagels and desserts. Their dairy free chocolate croissant and Apricot pastry were both phenomenal. The cashier was very knowledgeable about what was dairy free (and almost everything was!)” And they do offer two types of dairy-free cream cheese in addition to other kosher topping options.
Belton
- Dough Re Mi – This cookie dough shop offers a classic dairy-free chocolate chip variety. They have a store front with online ordering and local pick up and also ship nationwide.
Bryan
- Kalachandji’s ⭐️ – Located in a Hare Krishna temple, this restaurant serves a lunch and dinner buffet that is vegetarian and mostly vegan. Items with dairy are clearly labeled. The fare is heavily Indian, but they often have an international array of dishes.
- Village Foods & Pharmacy – Julie recommended this local grocery store. “We are dairy free and have one family member who is soy free as well. We get most of our specialty items from Village Foods. They also carry a large range of gluten free items.” They sell wellness and specialty products, and have a big range of dairy alternatives.
Buda
- Summer Moon Coffee – This cozy coffee house makes a signature moon milk, or sweet cream, that they can make dairy-free with oat, soy, almond or coconut milk.
Burleson
- Grumps Burgers – Kara wrote in to tell us about her favorite burger spot before going dairy free. Fortunately, they were happy to help her with dairy-free options, too. Their buns are dairy-free, and they use oil, not butter, to toast them. The French fries and sweet potato fries are cooked in the same fryer as dairy-containing items (like their onion rings and corn nuggets), so use caution if cross-contamination is a concern. Kara says, “I would always double check before ordering but this burger place is too tasty to not have on the list.”
- 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.
- Morgan’s Ice Cream – They always have some dreamy vegan flavors available. Last time we checked, they offered cookie dough, lime cheezcake, and a s’mores flavor. The vegan flavors are usually gluten-free, too (including the cookie dough).
- Torque Grill & Cantina – This Tex-Mex establishment is known for being friendly to dairy-free and vegan guests. They offer vegan tortas, cashew queso, a plethora of sides (including onion rings!), and many items that can be customized with cheese alternative and vegan ranch. Their menu is also labeled for gluten-free guests.
Carrollton
- Cowboy Chicken – They offer rotisserie and crispy chicken in a few flavors, all of which were dairy-free (at last check). They also have several dairy-free sides. Their bowls each contain dairy, but can be custom ordered without. They have an allergen chart, which also details dressing options.
Cedar Park
- Hopdoddy Burger Bar – Their focus is clear, and their menu is transparent. They tell you what allergens are in each component of each burger! They offer vegan wheat buns and vegan cheese, so most of their craft burgers can be custom ordered without dairy. They also have a vegan burger on the menu. At last check, other shareables, like crispy tenders and fries, were also dairy-free.
- JuiceLand – This used to be a dairy-free smoothie shop and coffee bar, but they have added Perfect Day whey protein to their menu. So their equipment is now mixed. They do still offer dairy-free options for every menu item, with almond mylk and hemp mylk along with many healthy mix-ins. They also make a whole menu of vegan meals, with bowls, burritos, and other specialty dishes. You’ll spot their locations around the city.
- Mad Greens – They have a great allergen chart, and most of their salads, grain bowls, and wraps can be ordered dairy-free, simply by omitting the cheese and swapping the sauce/dressing if needed. They also have build-your-own options.
- Summer Moon Coffee – This cozy coffee house makes a signature moon milk, or sweet cream, that they can make dairy-free with oat, soy, almond or coconut milk.
- Via 313 – This rising pizza chain offers dairy-free pizza dough, cheese alternative, and even has a cheeseless pizza on the menu. You can even order their dessert cinnamon sticks without dairy. They also have a gluten-free vegan pizza crust option.
Celina
- Summer Moon Coffee – This cozy coffee house makes a signature moon milk, or sweet cream, that they can make dairy-free with oat, soy, almond or coconut milk.
Cleburne
- Grumps Burgers – Kara wrote in to tell us about her favorite burger spot before going dairy free. Fortunately, they were happy to help her with dairy-free options, too. Their buns are dairy-free, and they use oil, not butter, to toast them. The French fries and sweet potato fries are cooked in the same fryer as dairy-containing items (like their onion rings and corn nuggets), so use caution if cross-contamination is a concern. Kara says, “I would always double check before ordering but this burger place is too tasty to not have on the list.”
- Loaf’n Dog – This hot dog spot has a binder which outlines the options, including breads. It sounds as if they have dairy-free hot dogs, fries, and are friendly toward special diet needs.
College Station
- Blue Baker ⭐️ – This bakery, pizzeria, deli, and cafe is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert. They have cute little icons on their menu for dairy-free, gluten-free, keto, vegetarian, and super food. There is a handful of dairy-free options, and several items can be made dairy-free with slight modifications (like holding the cheese). They have a few locations in College Station.
- 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.
- Hopdoddy Burger Bar – Their focus is clear, and their menu is transparent. They tell you what allergens are in each component of each burger! They offer vegan wheat buns and vegan cheese, so most of their craft burgers can be custom ordered without dairy. They also have a vegan burger on the menu. At last check, other shareables, like crispy tenders and fries, were also 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Snooze A.M. Eatery – They serve some plant-powered, dairy-free menu items, like vegan pancakes, tofu scramble, porridge, and buddha bowls. Some additional dishes can be custom ordered dairy free.
- Sweet Paris Cafe – As you might expect, they specialize in crepes. But they surprise special diet guests with options for vegan, gluten & dairy-free batter. Their sweet and savory toppings lean heavily toward cream and cheese, but you can customize your order.
Colleyville
- Luna Grill – Luna Grill does include vegan icons on their menu, and there are a few options. But they also have a great allergen guide that reveals numerous milk-free menu items. The desserts are off-limits, but there are many kabobs, salads, and small bites to choose from.
- 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.
Conroe
- Cinnaholic ⭐️ – This is an all-vegan bakery chain that focuses on cinnamon rolls, with choose your own icing and decadent toppings. They have other pastries, coffee, and soft serve, too.
- Main Squeze Juice Co. ⭐️ – Their dairy-free menu includes house-made almond mylks, juices, smoothies, smoothie bowls (including acai bowls), toasts with gluten-free and vegan bread, hot lattes, and frozen lattes, complete with non-dairy whip.
- Summer Moon Coffee – This cozy coffee house makes a signature moon milk, or sweet cream, that they can make dairy-free with oat, soy, almond or coconut milk.
Corpus Christi
- Project Pollo ⭐️ – Hannah of Bittersweet also recommended this local vegan “chicken” chain to us. “Right now they’re a homegrown chain with just a handful of locations spread through San Antonio and Austin, but they’re hell-bent on putting Chick-Fil-A out of business. They actually have a fighting chance with their unbelievably crispy, juicy meatless sandwiches, served up at downright affordable prices.” She has photos here.
Cypress
- 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.
- Cinnaholic ⭐️ – This is an all-vegan bakery chain that focuses on cinnamon rolls, with choose your own icing and decadent toppings. They have other pastries, coffee, and soft serve, too.
- Creamistry – Their instant liquid nitrogen ice cream and shakes can be ordered with one of their many dairy-free bases: vegan cashew, vegan coconut, or sorbet (several fruit flavors). They have an array of flavors and toppings.
- Half Baked – Craving cookies without a sugar rush? This baker makes a few varieties of paleo, keto cookies that are also dairy-free.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Main Squeze Juice Co. ⭐️ – Their dairy-free menu includes house-made almond mylks, juices, smoothies, smoothie bowls (including acai bowls), toasts with gluten-free and vegan bread, hot lattes, and frozen lattes, complete with non-dairy whip.
Dallas
- Al Biernat’s – This fine steakhouse is most known for surf and turf, but they also have a few vegan items in a special section on the menu, with choices like enchiladas and Thai stir fry. Additional meat and seafood items on the menu are, or can be made, dairy free.
- American Girl Bistro – This bistro is located inside the American Girl store, and host lunches and parties by reservation. See our Dairy-Free Tips for American Girl Cafe.
- Aqua S – This trendy ice cream soft serve shop is constantly rotating in new flavors, and they typically have dairy-free and vegan options available.
- Baldo’s – This ice cream shop offers a handful of innovative dairy-free sorbet flavors daily, and several milk alternatives for their coffee bar menu.
- Bellagreen ⭐️ – The “greenest restaurant in Texas” is also one of the most considerate. Their menus are clearly labeled for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegetarian options, and they offer several paleo menu items. They serve a somewhat eclectic array of dishes and have a few locations outside of Houston. Thank you to Pari S. for the recommendation.
- Belse Plant Cuisine ⭐️ – Creative shared plates and flat breads are a highlight at this casual yet sleek vegan restaurant. But they also offer comfort entrees and cheesecake for dessert.
- Birdguesa – This “tender and tot” shop offers vegan fried chick’n, tater tots, four different vegan-friendly sauces, and a dairy-free ice cream on their dessert menu. And they are quite good about keeping things separate. “We even made sure that our vegan products are not stored anywhere near the non-vegan options in the restaurant. We train our staff to fry the vegan chicken and tater tots in a separate fryer.”
- 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.
- Botolino Gelato – They offer a few dairy-free sorbetto flavors daily, including rich options like Valrhona chocolate.
- Casa Del Vegano ⭐️ – The Tex-Mex menu at this vegan restaurant includes “meat” and “seafood” tacos, quesadillas, and nachos.
- Cauldron Ice Cream – They have a vegan Pineapple Express flavor that they claim is like Dole Whip, but sadly, their “puffle” cones are not vegan – you have to order it in a cup. They also make boba and lattes with oat milk available.
- Company Cafe – Most of the menu at this rustic restaurant is gluten free, and anything that isn’t has a gluten-free option. The only bread that is dairy-free is their gluten-free bun. BUT all of their breakfast bowls are dairy free, their smoothies are made with almond milk, and they can “essentially make anything dairy free, except bread items.” They also have a handful of vegan menu items. They serve breakfast and lunch daily, with dinner on Friday and Saturday.
- Coolgreens – This healthy chain makes salads, wraps, sandwiches, and grain bowls. They have at least one dairy-free option in each category, and most items can be custom ordered dairy-free. At last check, all of their proteins, all of their greens and grains, most of their dressings (just skip the ranches), and most of their toppings (just skip the cheeses) were made without dairy. Even their croutons and spiced pecans are listed as dairy-free.
- Cowboy Chicken – They offer rotisserie and crispy chicken in a few flavors, all of which were dairy-free (at last check). They also have several dairy-free sides. Their bowls each contain dairy, but can be custom ordered without. They have an allergen chart, which also details dressing options.
- Creamistry – Their instant liquid nitrogen ice cream and shakes can be ordered with one of their many dairy-free bases: vegan cashew, vegan coconut, or sorbet (several fruit flavors). They have an array of flavors and toppings.
- Crisp & Green – This rapidly expanding, Minnesota-based chain focuses on fresh salad bowls, grain bowls, and smoothies. At last check, their entire smoothie menu was dairy-free and vegan, and they had a few Asian-inspired, dairy-free bowl options. But you can also build-your-own bowl using their handy allergen guide. As a side note, they also offer vegan, gluten-free crispy treats for dessert.
- El Palote Panaderia ⭐️ – This Mexican restaurant is all-vegan, despite their lack of clarity online. They make their own house “meats” for tacos, nachos (complete with dairy-free cheese and sour cream), gorditas, and more. They also offer various pan dulce baked goodies.
- Everbowl – They specialize in cool, creamy superfood bowls, including acai, pitaya, blue majik, and more, layered with various other bases and toppings. Almost their entire menu is dairy free (they do offer whey protein) and vegan (they have honey and bee pollen as options).
- Flatbread Company – This gourmet flatbread pizza chain supports local and organic farming, and is special diet friendly. They offer dairy-free cheese, have vegan pizza on the menu, and can make many of their pizzas dairy free. They also offer a gluten-free vegan pizza crust, and we’ve been told that their regular house dough and most of their toppings are dairy-free. They also have build-your-own salad options.
- Flower Child – This healthy restaurant chain serves salads, bowls, and plates with choose your own protein and side options. Their modern “hippie” menu is loaded with organic produce, whole grains (gluten-free, too), and house dressings. Their menu is littered with vegan and paleo options, and most items either are, or can be made dairy-free on request. They have a few locations in Dallas.
- Luna Grill – Luna Grill does include vegan icons on their menu, and there are a few options. But they also have a great allergen guide that reveals numerous milk-free menu items. The desserts are off-limits, but there are many kabobs, salads, and small bites to choose from.
- Goji Cafe ⭐️ – They offer full menus of Asian and American fare at this vegan restaurant, and they have dairy-free cheesecake and Thai tea to satisfy your sweet tooth.
- HG Sply Co. – Thanks to Jenna at The Urben Life for recommending this restaurant to us. “Great rooftop restaurant/bar with plenty allergy friendly options! The vegan queso is great.” They started with a paleo focus, but have evolved with a more inclusive menu. They do use a fair bit of dairy cheese, but have a big range of dairy-free and gluten-free options.
- Hopdoddy Burger Bar – Their focus is clear, and their menu is transparent. They tell you what allergens are in each component of each burger! They offer vegan wheat buns and vegan cheese, so most of their craft burgers can be custom ordered without dairy. They also have a vegan burger on the menu. At last check, other shareables, like crispy tenders and fries, were also dairy-free.
- 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.
- I Love Juice Bar ⭐️ – They blend dairy-free smoothies, acai bowls, and smoothie bowls, offer a range of juices and healthy shots, have overnight oats, and also serve vegan-friendly soups.
- 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.
- JuiceLand – This used to be a dairy-free smoothie shop and coffee bar, but they have added Perfect Day whey protein to their menu. So their equipment is now mixed. They do still offer dairy-free options for every menu item, with almond mylk and hemp mylk along with many healthy mix-ins. They also make a whole menu of vegan meals, with bowls, burritos, and other specialty dishes. You’ll spot their locations around the city.
- Kalachandji’s – This vegetarian Indian restaurant is heavy in vegan options, and they clearly label dairy-free / dairy items.
- 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.
- Mi Cocina – They offer a mini vegan menu within their menu that includes two types of tacos and a smothered fajita dish. Additional items can be ordered dairy free. Lauren let us know they are also very responsive with dairy-free inquiries.
- Mo’Bettahs – This Hawaiian-style chain is almost completely dairy-free! At last check, all of their meats / shrimp, sides, salads, and sauces were made without dairy. Yes, including the tempura, katsu, and mac salad (contains egg, not dairy). From what we saw, just two of their salad dressings contain milk.
- Moon Child Vegan Cakes ⭐️ – This is another vegan home baker, who bakes elegant cakes, cupcakes, donuts, pop tarts, and other small treats on custom order.
- Original ChopShop – This healthy eating chain serves several dairy-free protein bowls, acai and pitaya bowls, chia puddings, and a few breakfast eats. Many yo their wraps and sandwiches can also be custom ordered without dairy, since they do have dairy-free bread and tortilla options, and they also have dairy-free, gluten-free tortillas. They offer a fairly good allergen filters and menus, but you do have to inquire for custom orders.
- Origin Kitchen + Bar – There’s a little something for everyone at this fresh, local restaurant. They focus on seasonal cuisine and incorporate dairy-free touches throughout their menu. For example, they offer a cashew queso starter and chicken wings with dairy-free ranch. They also serve several dairy-free entrees for lunch and dinner. Their breakfast is a little heavier in milk, but they still have some options.
- 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.
- Project Pollo ⭐️ – Hannah of Bittersweet also recommended this local vegan “chicken” chain to us. “Right now they’re a homegrown chain with just a handful of locations spread through San Antonio and Austin, but they’re hell-bent on putting Chick-Fil-A out of business. They actually have a fighting chance with their unbelievably crispy, juicy meatless sandwiches, served up at downright affordable prices.” She has photos here.
- Pure Milk & Honey – They typically offer one or two dairy-free flavors daily, like chocolate, honey, rose lemonade, or pineapple. They mix things up! Their non-dairy flavors are made with coconut milk and local honey.
- 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.
- Seasons 52 – See our Seasons 52 Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
- Smokin’ Oak – This wood-fired pizzeria and taproom chain offers vegan cheese and an eclectic selection of toppings.
- Snap Kitchen – They offer healthy pre-made meals with clearly marked ingredients and allergens. Many of their meals are dairy-free, and they even offer several paleo and gluten-free options. They have their own stores, but their meal are also available in Whole Foods in this region.
- Snooze A.M. Eatery – They serve some plant-powered, dairy-free menu items, like vegan pancakes, tofu scramble, porridge, and buddha bowls. Some additional dishes can be custom ordered dairy free.
- Spiral Diner ⭐️ – This all-vegan retro restaurant is a local chain that serves breakfast all day, lunch, dinner, and dessert. They offer blue plate specials, burgers, sandwiches, salads, nachos, pancakes, smoothies, and more. Desserts include dairy-free milkshakes and sundaes, or something from their full bakery. They offer beautiful cakes, pies, cookies, and more.
- Sweet Charlie’s – This rolled ice cream chain offers a dairy-free and vegan base that you can customize with various flavor and add-in options or even enjoy as a “milkshake.”
- Sweet Gilly’s Vegan ⭐️ – This is a home baker who crafts stunning, artisan, vegan cakes, cookies, and cupcakes on custom order.
- The Gelato Cone ⭐️ – They make classic gelato, but also have a nice array of “milk free” options. These usually include dark chocolate and several fruity flavors, which are also egg-free and gluten-free. But be sure to order in a cup, as their cones do contain dairy. However, they can make dairy-free smoothies for you, as they use almond milk.
- The Juice Bar – This isn’t a fully dairy-free shop (they do offer Greek yogurt and some baked goods with dairy), but they have many dairy-free options. This includes not only smoothies, but also various overnight oats and chia pudding made with their house-made almond milk and raw honey
- The Market Local Comfort Cafe ⭐️ – This kosher spot is pescatarian, but is also friendly to dairy-free and vegan guests. They have a full bakery with challah, other breads, bagels, and more, and keep a separate dairy-free pareve kitchen to accommodate requests. They also have a full coffee bar with various milk alternatives and house-made syrups.
- The Salty Donut – They typically have a unique vegan brioche donut flavor or two, like dark chocolate passion fruit or brown sugar blondie. This bakery chain also has a full coffee bar with milk alternatives and several vegan syrups.
- Tribal All Day Cafe – This healthy restaurant offers a wonderful array of dairy-free and vegan eats and drinks. They serves starters, salads, bowls, wraps, breakfast all day, smoothies, and smoothie bowls. Their menu includes many house-made pantry items, like vegan queso, jalapeno cashew “cream cheese,” and granola. They also source locally for things like dairy-free yogurt.
- Unrefined Bakery ⭐️ – This gluten-free, soy-free bakery caters to all types of special diet needs. Most of their daily offerings are dairy-free, and they bake specific items for vegan, paleo, and keto customers. Their menu includes all types of sweet and savory baked goods, and they make custom order cakes. They have three locations in Dallas, and a few others in nearby cities.
- Van Leeuwen ⭐️ – This popular localized ice cream chain sells their pints in grocery stores, but they also have scoop shops. They churn both classic dairy ice cream and a huge array of dairy-free flavors, which are made with cashew and coconut milk or oat milk. They can also make you a vegan ice cream sandwich with chocolate chip cookies, blend a dairy-free milkshake, or craft a sundae with vegan whipped cream, hot fudge, and various other toppings.
- Vegan Food House ⭐️ – Their expansive all-vegan menu includes brunch, burgers, sandwiches, southern-style entrees, tacos, and much more. They also offer beignets for dessert.
- Wulf Burger – Most of their menu can be made dairy-free, since they offer vegan cheese, vegan buns, and vegan sauce. They make grass-fed beef and vegan burgers. Thank you to Katie for this recommendation!
Deer Park
- 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.
Denton
- Cowboy Chicken – They offer rotisserie and crispy chicken in a few flavors, all of which were dairy-free (at last check). They also have several dairy-free sides. Their bowls each contain dairy, but can be custom ordered without. They have an allergen chart, which also details dressing options.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Seven Mile Cafe – Sharel told us about this about this local chain of restaurants. They have a homey menu that’s littered with vegan icons, from breakfast bowls to benedicts to sandwich melts. They offer dairy-free cheese alternative, several milk beverages, vegan bread options, and dairy-free salad dressings, so most of their menu can be made dairy-free!
- Spiral Diner ⭐️ – This bright vegan diner is a local chain that serves breakfast all day, lunch, dinner, and dessert. They offer blue plate specials, burgers, sandwiches, salads, nachos, pancakes, smoothies, and more. Desserts include dairy-free milkshakes and sundaes, or something from their full bakery. They offer beautiful cakes, pies, cookies, and more.
El Paso
- Cinnaholic ⭐️ – See our Cinnaholic Dairy-Free Information.
- Get Together – This Mexican-American restaurant is known for great vegan options, but they also have dairy-free meat tacos and other 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.
- Mi Cakes – They offer a selection of vegan cakes and bake custom order cakes and cupcakes for all occasions.
- 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.
- Peachwave – If you’re craving something cool and creamy, pop into this froyo chain for some dairy-free Dole Whip or sorbet soft serve! They usually have a few flavors each day.
- Savage Goods – They’re very friendly to dairy-free and vegan guests with good options breakfast, brunch, and lunch. You can build your own breakfast burrito, enjoy classics like biscuits and gravy and waffles, customize a sandwich, or create your own burger. They also have a full coffee bar with dairy-free milk options and most of their baked goods are vegan! This includes donuts, cookies, scones, and more.
- Summer Moon Coffee – This cozy coffee house makes a signature moon milk, or sweet cream, that they can make dairy-free with oat, soy, almond or coconut milk.
- Taconeta – It’s best to call ahead to ask about their dairy-free menu items. They are window order and online order only. But they do have several vegan options labeled via online ordering. This includes tacos, tostadas, bowls, and salads.
- 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.
Euless
- Hopdoddy Burger Bar – Their focus is clear, and their menu is transparent. They tell you what allergens are in each component of each burger! They offer vegan wheat buns and vegan cheese, so most of their craft burgers can be custom ordered without dairy. They also have a vegan burger on the menu. At last check, other shareables, like crispy tenders and fries, were also dairy-free.
- 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.
- 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.
Flower Mound
- Clean Eatz – This healthy fast casual chain offers a straight-forward allergen guide and many options for building your own bowl, salad, or wrap.
- I Love Juice Bar ⭐️ – They blend dairy-free smoothies, acai bowls, and smoothie bowls, offer a range of juices and healthy shots, have overnight oats, and also serve vegan-friendly soups.
- Luna Grill – Luna Grill does include vegan icons on their menu, and there are a few options. But they also have a great allergen guide that reveals numerous milk-free menu items. The desserts are off-limits, but there are many kabobs, salads, and small bites to choose from.
- Mi Cocina – They offer a mini vegan menu within their menu that includes two types of tacos and a smothered fajita dish. Additional items can be ordered dairy free. Lauren let us know they are also very responsive with dairy-free inquiries.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Sara’s Donut Story – They offer vegan, vegan donuts daily. The flavors change weekly, but are usually cake donuts with an assortment of icings / toppings. We’ve seen classics like vanilla, fruit flavors, cookie butter, salted caramel, birthday cake, and more.
- Wicked BOLD Vegan Kitchen ⭐️ – This is a vegan eatery, mocktail bar, and chocolate shop. Their menu includes sandwiches, wraps, bowls, small plates, and desserts.
Forney
- Cowboy Chicken – They offer rotisserie and crispy chicken in a few flavors, all of which were dairy-free (at last check). They also have several dairy-free sides. Their bowls each contain dairy, but can be custom ordered without. They have an allergen chart, which also details dressing options.
Fort Worth
- Belenty’s Love ⭐️ – This is an all-vegan Mexican restaurant that serves very full menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- 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.
- Char’d: Southeast Asian Kitchen – They specialize in Asian bowls with some signature options and a build-your-own menu. Most of the menu is dairy-free (just ask) and they have many gluten-free and paleo choices.
- Cowboy Chicken – They offer rotisserie and crispy chicken in a few flavors, all of which were dairy-free (at last check). They also have several dairy-free sides. Their bowls each contain dairy, but can be custom ordered without. They have an allergen chart, which also details dressing options.
- Creamistry – Their instant liquid nitrogen ice cream and shakes can be ordered with one of their many dairy-free bases: vegan cashew, vegan coconut, or sorbet (several fruit flavors). They have an array of flavors and toppings.
- Creative Memories The Sweet Spot Bakery – They reportedly offer gluten-free dairy-free cupcakes, but call in advance to order or verify the options.
- FunkyTown Donuts – They make a few flavors of gluten-free and vegan donuts on Wednesdays and Sundays.
- 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.
- HG Sply Co. – Thanks to Jenna at The Urben Life for recommending this restaurant to us. “Great rooftop restaurant/bar with plenty allergy friendly options! The vegan queso is great.” They started with a paleo focus, but have evolved with a more inclusive menu. They do use a fair bit of dairy cheese, but have a big range of dairy-free and gluten-free options.
- Hopdoddy Burger Bar – Their focus is clear, and their menu is transparent. They tell you what allergens are in each component of each burger! They offer vegan wheat buns and vegan cheese, so most of their craft burgers can be custom ordered without dairy. They also have a vegan burger on the menu. At last check, other shareables, like crispy tenders and fries, were also 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.
- Luna Grill – Luna Grill does include vegan icons on their menu, and there are a few options. But they also have a great allergen guide that reveals numerous milk-free menu items. The desserts are off-limits, but there are many kabobs, salads, and small bites to choose from.
- Main Squeze Juice Co. ⭐️ – Their dairy-free menu includes house-made almond mylks, juices, smoothies, smoothie bowls (including acai bowls), toasts with gluten-free and vegan bread, hot lattes, and frozen lattes, complete with non-dairy whip.
- Mariachi’s Dine-In – Enjoy all types of authentic Mexican cuisine at this local eatery. They originally served out of a convenience store, but are opening a full restaurant and bar. They have classic “cheesy” fare, but also offer a full vegan menu, complete with dairy-free cheese and crema. Consequently, almost every savory item on their menu can be made dairy-free – even the elote!
- Melt Ice Creams – They try to be transparent about allergens, and always have a dairy-free flavor on hand. Sometimes it’s a creamy variety, but sometimes it’s a sorbet.
- Mi Cocina – They offer a mini vegan menu within their menu that includes two types of tacos and a smothered fajita dish. Additional items can be ordered dairy free, and their staff is reportedly quite helpful.
- 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.
- Morgan’s Ice Cream – They always have some dreamy vegan flavors available. Last time we checked, they offered cookie dough, lime cheezcake, and a s’mores flavor. The vegan flavors are usually gluten-free, too (including the cookie dough).
- 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.
- 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.
- Pizza Verde ⭐️ – This vegan pop-up started inside Black Cat Pizza, but now they’re setting up a permanent location (where Rocco’s Wood Fired Pizza used to be) to serve dairy-free, plant-based pizzas and pastas.
- Seven Mile Cafe – You can enjoy breakfast or lunch at this homey local chain. Their menu is littered with vegan icons – they even have Vigas (vegan migas), vegan pancakes, and vegan grilled cheese. They offer dairy-free cheese alternative, several milk beverages, vegan bread options, and dairy-free salad dressings, so most of their menu can be made dairy-free.
- Snooze A.M. Eatery – They serve some plant-powered, dairy-free menu items, like vegan pancakes, tofu scramble, porridge, and buddha bowls. Some additional dishes can be custom ordered dairy free.
- Spiral Diner ⭐️ – This hip vegan restaurant is a local chain with a comforting retro menu. They serve breakfast all day, lunch, dinner, and dessert with blue plate specials, burgers, sandwiches, salads, nachos, pancakes, smoothies, and more. Desserts include dairy-free milkshakes and sundaes, or something from their full bakery. They offer beautiful cakes, have an array of cupcakes on display, sell whole pies, and much more.
- Stir Crazy Baked Goods – For an extra charge, they can make almost anything on their full bakery menu vegan and/or gluten free. They also have vegan sausage rolls, and we’ve heard they have some dairy-free and vegan options on hand daily.
- Summer Moon Coffee – This cozy coffee house makes a signature moon milk, or sweet cream, that they can make dairy-free with oat, soy, almond or coconut milk.
- Toppers Pizza – They have three signature vegan pizzas on their menu (two with plant-based chicken), and you can sub their dairy-free mozzarella to make most other pizzas dairy-free. They also offer vegan cheese sticks and have several dairy-free sauces.
- Unrefined Bakery ⭐️ – This gluten-free, soy-free bakery caters to all types of special diet needs. Most of their daily offerings are dairy-free, and they bake specific items for vegan, paleo, and keto customers. Their menu includes all types of sweet and savory baked goods, and they make custom order cakes. They have one location in Fort Worth, and few others in nearby cities.
- Van Leeuwen ⭐️ – This popular localized ice cream chain sells their pints in grocery stores, but they also have scoop shops. They churn both classic dairy ice cream and a huge array of dairy-free flavors, which are made with cashew and coconut milk or oat milk. They can also make you a vegan ice cream sandwich with chocolate chip cookies, blend a dairy-free milkshake, or craft a sundae with vegan whipped cream, hot fudge, and various other toppings.
- Zonk Burger ⭐️ – This counter-serve vegan restaurant does almost everything from scratch, including their burgers, sandwiches, fries, and dairy-free soft serve. They also offer a gluten-free menu.
Friendswood
- Summer Moon Coffee – This cozy coffee house makes a signature moon milk, or sweet cream, that they can make dairy-free with oat, soy, almond or coconut milk.
- Sweet Paris Cafe – As you might expect, they specialize in crepes. But they surprise special diet guests with options for vegan, gluten & dairy-free batter. Their sweet and savory toppings lean heavily toward cream and cheese, but you can customize your order.
Frisco
- 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.
- Cinnaholic ⭐️ – This is an all-vegan bakery chain that focuses on cinnamon rolls, with choose your own icing and decadent toppings. They have other pastries, coffee, and soft serve, too.
- Cowboy Chicken – They offer rotisserie and crispy chicken in a few flavors, all of which were dairy-free (at last check). They also have several dairy-free sides. Their bowls each contain dairy, but can be custom ordered without. They have an allergen chart, which also details dressing options.
- Läderach – These Swiss chocolate shops now offer a full dairy-free and vegan line with various dark and cashewmilk chocolate options. The decadent collection includes bars, all types of barks, and some other confections.
- Mi Cocina – They offer a mini vegan menu within their menu that includes two types of tacos and a smothered fajita dish. Additional items can be ordered dairy free, and their staff is reportedly quite helpful.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Smokin’ Oak – This wood-fired pizzeria and taproom chain offers vegan cheese and an eclectic selection of toppings.
- Summer Moon Coffee – This cozy coffee house makes a signature moon milk, or sweet cream, that they can make dairy-free with oat, soy, almond or coconut milk.
- Unrefined Bakery ⭐️ – This gluten-free, soy-free bakery caters to all types of special diet needs. Most of their daily offerings are dairy-free, and they bake specific items for vegan, paleo, and keto customers. Their menu includes all types of sweet and savory baked goods, and they make custom order cakes. They have one location in Frisco, and few others in nearby cities. Thanks to Kenneth H. for this recommendation!
- UP Inspired Kitchen – Thanks to Jenna at The Urben Life for sharing this favorite “The menu has elevated better-for-you items ranging from delicious brunch options to burgers!” They aren’t a strictly dairy-free restaurant, but have quite a few options, and can customize several orders easily. Gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options are also labeled on their menu.
- Wulf Burger – Most of their menu can be made dairy-free, since they offer vegan cheese, vegan buns, and vegan sauce. They make grass-fed beef and vegan burgers. Thank you to Katie for this recommendation!
Fulshear
- Main Squeze Juice Co. ⭐️ – Their dairy-free menu includes house-made almond mylks, juices, smoothies, smoothie bowls (including acai bowls), toasts with gluten-free and vegan bread, hot lattes, and frozen lattes, complete with non-dairy whip.
Galveston
- EATcetera – They’re quite friendly to various dietary needs at this lunch spot, and have vegan and gluten-free options right on the menu – including dessert! They offer dairy-free salads, sandwiches, and some other eats.
- Incredible Cakes Bakery – They offer a handful of specialty vegan sweets, and also bake custom order cakes and cupcakes for various dietary needs, including dairy free, gluten free, keto, vegan, and more.
- Lolo Kai – This is a great spot for smoothies, acai and smoothie bowls, wraps, and salads. They do use dairy in some of their blends, but use coconut milk for most of their bowls, and offer dairy-free and vegan protein options. Most salads and wraps can be ordered without dairy.
- Mosquito Cafe – Their big lunch and dinner menu has a few dairy-free options, but their staff is also known for being friendly to special diet needs and accommodating requests.
- Old Moon Deli & Pies – They offer vegan burgers, sandwiches, and even a few vegan desserts (including pie!), plus additional burgers and sandwiches can be ordered without dairy.
- Vegan Gxng ⭐️ – This all-vegan spot caters to take out with a small menu of tacos, burritos, burgers, salads, and fruit smoothies.
Garland
- 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.
Georgetown
- Goodfolks – Thank you to Alyssa for letting us know this Southern-style restaurant is friendly to dairy-free and gluten-free guests. “They serve fried chicken, burgers, and more. You can guarantee quality, freshness, and allergen friendly procedures! The chef is my husband so he has lots of experience in creating allergen free meals!”
- 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 Yard Milkshake Bar – This growing chain serves ridiculously indulgent milkshakes, and they have vegan options on their menu. We spotted this crazy chocolate concoction made with oat milk ice cream, chocolate soymilk, dairy-free whip, and vegan cookies. You can also build your own shake. They usually have a couple creamy dairy-free ice cream flavors available.
Granbury
- Belenty’s Love ⭐️ – This is an all-vegan Mexican restaurant that serves very full menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Grumps Burgers – Kara wrote in to tell us about her favorite burger spot before going dairy free. Fortunately, they were happy to help her with dairy-free options, too. Their buns are dairy-free, and they use oil, not butter, to toast them. The French fries and sweet potato fries are cooked in the same fryer as dairy-containing items (like their onion rings and corn nuggets), so use caution if cross-contamination is a concern. Kara says, “I would always double check before ordering but this burger place is too tasty to not have on the list.”
Grand Prairie
- Bambu – This is a Vietnamese drink chain that specializes in authentic Chè, with many naturally dairy-free and vegan flavors (made with coconut milk). They also offer dairy-free options (coconut milk or almond milk) for their milk teas, coffee drinks, and smoothies.
- Sweet Lizzie’s Bakery – This is a home-based baker that hosts no-contact porch pop up shops. She specializes in decorated cookies, but also bakes other sweet treats. Her daughter has several food allergies, so she can easily accommodate orders for dairy-free, gluten-free, and other allergens (just not egg-free). She usually has some dairy-free options available at the pop ups.
Hallsville
- Utterly Free Bakery ⭐️ – This dairy-free bakery makes macarons, cupcakes, cookies, and brownies, and caters to additional dietary needs, with options for gluten-free, vegan, and more.
Hewitt
- Peachwave – If you’re craving something cool and creamy, pop into this froyo chain for some dairy-free Dole Whip or sorbet soft serve! They usually have a few flavors each day.
Highland Village
- 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.
- Pokemoto ⭐️ – Enjoy their poke bowls with a range of dairy-free sauces, and get dairy-free Dole Whip for dessert!
- Seven Mile Cafe – You can enjoy breakfast or lunch at this homey local chain. Their menu is littered with vegan icons – they even have Vigas (vegan migas), vegan pancakes, and vegan sandwich melts. They offer dairy-free cheese alternative, several milk beverages, vegan bread options, and dairy-free salad dressings, so most of their menu can be made dairy-free.
Houston
- Amy’s Ice Creams – Enjoy classic vanilla and chocolate dairy-free ice cream made with oat milk or coconut milk (your choice!) plus Oreo coconut milk ice cream. They also serve sorbet-like fruit ices.
- Angela’s Oven / The Red Barn Bakery Cafe – All of their breads are dairy-free and vegan. You can buy them by the loaf or order a dairy-free sandwich. They also serve coffee drinks with almond or oat milk.
- Aqua S – This trendy ice cream soft serve shop is constantly rotating in new flavors, and they typically have dairy-free and vegan options available.
- Awesome Bites Co. ⭐️ – Everything at this bake shop is dairy-free, egg-free, nut-free, and soy-free. And they focus on healthier treats, made without refined sugars, like naturally sweetened “super” muffins, bean-based brownies and blondies, gluten-free granola, and nice cream. Thank you to Pari S. for the recommendation!
- Bambu – This is a Vietnamese drink chain that specializes in authentic Chè, with many naturally dairy-free and vegan flavors (made with coconut milk). They also offer dairy-free options (coconut milk or almond milk) for their milk teas, coffee drinks, and smoothies.
- Bare Bakery – They make pretty gluten-free dessert with unrefined sweeteners, and always have dairy-free cookies, cakes, cupcakes, and custom treats available for order. They also bake egg-free and vegan goodies. They make appearances at local farmer’s markets, but otherwise, everything is by order and pick-up at their bakery. They do not have a storefront. Thank you to Pari S. for the recommendation!
- Bellagreen ⭐️ – The “greenest restaurant in Texas” is also one of the most considerate. Their menus are clearly labeled for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegetarian options, and they offer several paleo menu items. They serve a somewhat eclectic array of dishes and have a few locations in Houston and beyond. Thank you to Pari S. for the recommendation.
- Cinnaholic ⭐️ – This is an all-vegan bakery chain that focuses on cinnamon rolls, with choose your own icing and decadent toppings. They have other pastries, coffee, and soft serve, too.
- Common Bond ⭐️ – At their Bistros and Bakeries, they offer a few dairy-free entrees, labeled on their menu. They also have vegan gingersnaps for a treat, and some dairy-free breads (just ask). For coffee drinks, they have almond, coconut, soy, and oat milk options.
- Crave Cupcakes – There are quite a few bakeries with the “crave” name, but this one is a local Houston bakery. They were recommended by Pari S. for their Vegan Red Velvet cupcake made with dairy-free vanilla bean frosting, which is served daily.
- Creamistry – Their instant liquid nitrogen ice cream and shakes can be ordered with one of their many dairy-free bases: vegan cashew, vegan coconut, or sorbet (several fruit flavors). They have an array of flavors and toppings.
- Crumbville – This bakery specializes in cookies and cupcakes, and offers several flavors that are vegan or vegan and gluten-free.
- Dessert Gallery Bakery & Cafe – Pari S. recommended this classic sweet shop. They offer dairy-free, gluten-free, sugar-free, and vegan desserts daily, which can include cookies, cake slices, and other desserts. They also take custom orders.
- Everbowl – They specialize in cool, creamy superfood bowls, including acai, pitaya, blue majik, and more, layered with various other bases and toppings. Almost their entire menu is dairy free (they do offer whey protein) and vegan (they have honey and bee pollen as options).
- Fat Cat Creamery – They have a dairy-free chai tea coconut ice cream flavor on their year round menu, and often have a second seasonal dairy-free flavor made with coconut milk or fruit. They also make floats.
- Field of Greens ⭐️ – This counter-serve restaurant has a huge vegan menu with a heavy emphasis on macrobiotic food. They serve an array of salads, sandwiches, burgers, and a handful of other entrees for lunch and dinner – all of which appear to be dairy-free, but double check with the staff.
- Flower Child – This healthy restaurant chain serves salads, bowls, and plates with choose your own protein and side options. Their modern “hippie” menu is loaded with organic produce, whole grains (gluten-free, too), and house dressings. Their menu is littered with vegan and paleo options, and most items either are, or can be made dairy-free on request. They have a few locations in Houston.
- Green Vegetarian Cuisine – This is a vegetarian restaurant, but almost every item on their menu can be made vegan. They offer eggs and cheese on certain items, but are happy to substitute with tofu or Daiya dairy-free cheese alternative on any item. All of their desserts, sauces, and breads are vegan. They have one location in Houston, serving lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch.
- Hopdoddy Burger Bar – Their focus is clear, and their menu is transparent. They tell you what allergens are in each component of each burger! They offer vegan wheat buns and vegan cheese, so most of their craft burgers can be custom ordered without dairy. They also have a vegan burger on the menu. At last check, other shareables, like crispy tenders and fries, were also dairy-free.
- Houston Sauce Co ⭐️ – This is a vegan food truck serving a global array of lunch entrees along with some soups and breakfast items.
- HS Green – This “fresh food kitchen” is reportedly quite friendly toward dairy-free requests. They have some dairy-free, or easily dairy-free, options on their salad, wrap, and snack menus.
- Hugs & Donuts – They offer a daily vegan donut in a rotating flavor, like biscoff, lemon blueberry, or chocolate with sprinkles.
- 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.
- 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.
- Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream – See our Jeni’s Dairy-Free Guide for full details.
- 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.
- Jodycakes – This is a custom cake shop that offers a huge array of vegan, gluten-free, and/or organic flavors. They use Earth Balance Buttery Sticks for their vegan “buttercream” but can make your frosting soy-free, on request.
- JuiceLand – This used to be a dairy-free smoothie shop and coffee bar, but they have added Perfect Day whey protein to their menu. So their equipment is now mixed. They do still offer dairy-free options for every menu item, with almond mylk and hemp mylk along with many healthy mix-ins. They also make a whole menu of vegan meals, with bowls, burritos, and other specialty dishes. You’ll spot their locations around the city.
- JuiceWell ⭐️ – Their focus is on cold-pressed juices and their house-made nut mylks, but they also blend dairy-free smoothies and acai bowls.
- 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.
- Magic Cup Cafe – They offer soy, almond, and coconut milk as dairy-free options for their smoothies, spicy smoothies, frappes, and bubble teas. They also have gluten-free jellies.
- Mahana Fresh – This Hawaiian-style build-your-own bowl spot has a great allergen menu, which reveals that much of their menu is dairy free. They also offer dairy-free Dole Whip and Dole Whip floats for dessert.
- Main Squeze Juice Co. ⭐️ – Their dairy-free menu includes house-made almond mylks, juices, smoothies, smoothie bowls (including acai bowls), toasts with gluten-free and vegan bread, hot lattes, and frozen lattes, complete with non-dairy whip.
- Mo’ Better Brews ⭐️ – They specialize in vegan breakfast, coffee, and vinyl. Their menu is rich with Southern comfort dishes, from shrooms and grits to peach cobbler waffles.
- 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.
- Nourish Juice Bar – Of course they have cold-pressed juices, but they also make several smoothies, coffee, and tea drinks with their house-made almond milk, and have many dairy-free food items, ranging from avocado toasts to grab ‘n go snacks to meals from Vital Kitchen (below).
- Original ChopShop – This healthy eating chain serves several dairy-free protein bowls, acai and pitaya bowls, chia puddings, and a few breakfast eats. Many yo their wraps and sandwiches can also be custom ordered without dairy, since they do have dairy-free bread and tortilla options, and they also have dairy-free, gluten-free tortillas. They offer a fairly good allergen filters and menus, but you do have to inquire for custom orders.
- Pinks Pizza – They offer dairy-free mozzarella and gluten-free pizza dough, so almost any pizza on their menu can be made dairy-free and gluten-free.
- Project Pollo ⭐️ – Hannah of Bittersweet also recommended this local vegan “chicken” chain to us. “Right now they’re a homegrown chain with just a handful of locations spread through San Antonio and Austin, but they’re hell-bent on putting Chick-Fil-A out of business. They actually have a fighting chance with their unbelievably crispy, juicy meatless sandwiches, served up at downright affordable prices.” She has photos here.
- 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.
- Seasons 52 – See our Seasons 52 Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
- Sinfull Bakery ⭐️ – This all-vegan bakery offers an eclectic mix of menu items, including breakfast sandwiches, pop tarts, cinnamon rolls, monkey bread, kolaches, cookies, and mini loaves. Thanks to Kaelie for the recommendation, ” Their stuff is to die for! The cinnamon rolls use a vegan lactic acid but they taste so good, you don’t even realize they are dairy free!”
- Snap Kitchen – They offer healthy pre-made meals with clearly marked ingredients and allergens. Many of their meals are dairy-free, and they even offer several paleo and gluten-free options. They have their own stores, but their meal are also available in Whole Foods in this region.
- Snooze A.M. Eatery – They serve some plant-powered, dairy-free menu items, like vegan pancakes, tofu scramble, porridge, and buddha bowls. Some additional dishes can be custom ordered dairy free.
- Summer Moon Coffee – This cozy coffee house makes a signature moon milk, or sweet cream, that they can make dairy-free with oat, soy, almond or coconut milk.
- Sunshine’s Vegetarian Deli and Health Food Store – Thanks to Sharon for this recommendation. She says they have a lot of great vegan menu items.
- Sweet Paris Cafe – As you might expect, they specialize in crepes. But they surprise special diet guests with options for vegan, gluten & dairy-free batter. Their sweet and savory toppings lean heavily toward cream and cheese, but you can customize your order.
- Three Brothers Bakery ⭐️ – This kosher bakery does make some items with dairy, but their dairy-free selection is dizzying. They have cream cakes, pound cakes, coffee cakes, pies, turnovers, cookies, brownies, muffins, danishes, bagels, bread, and of course challah (more than 20 types!). Top allergen information is available on their website and the staff is available to help in store. They have three locations in Houston and they ship nationwide!
- Van Leeuwen ⭐️ – This popular localized ice cream chain sells their pints in grocery stores, but they also have scoop shops. They churn both classic dairy ice cream and a huge array of dairy-free flavors, which are made with cashew and coconut milk or oat milk. They can also make you a vegan ice cream sandwich with chocolate chip cookies, blend a dairy-free milkshake, or craft a sundae with vegan whipped cream, hot fudge, and various other toppings.
- Vegan Donut & Gelato ⭐️ – As their name implies, they specialize in vegan donuts, but you’ll find other treats at this lovely shop.
- Vibrant ⭐️ – This is a fully gluten, dairy and refined sugar free restaurant that makes their own bread, cheese, milks, and sausage from scratch in-house daily. They support local and sustainable cuisine. Their all-day menu isn’t huge, but it is diverse and filled with healthy food.
- Vital Kitchen – This is a chef-created ready meal service that offers pick-up and delivery. Every meal they make is gluten free, dairy free, and free of refined sugars.
- Voodoo Doughnut – This unique doughnut chain out of Oregon offers several vegan doughnut flavors daily, which can include maple bars, cream filled, apple fritters, and other creative raised and iced varieties. They also bake a vegan cake doughnut, and can make almost any donut vegan if you order ahead. However, they don’t offer any gluten-free donuts.
Humble
- Tin Roof BBQ ⭐️ – They reportedly have some of the best brisket in the area, and it’s dairy-free! They have dairy-free and gluten-free menus to make ordering easier. The dairy-free options allow for many barbecue plates with sides.
Huntsville
- 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.
Hurst
- 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.
- Pineapple Grill – Thanks to their Hawaiian theme, they have many naturally dairy-free dishes. They also have dairy-free sorbets and pineapple Dole Whip for dessert.
Irving
- Cowboy Chicken – They offer rotisserie and crispy chicken in a few flavors, all of which were dairy-free (at last check). They also have several dairy-free sides. Their bowls each contain dairy, but can be custom ordered without. They have an allergen chart, which also details dressing options.
- Creamistry – Their instant liquid nitrogen ice cream and shakes can be ordered with one of their many dairy-free bases: vegan cashew, vegan coconut, or sorbet (several fruit flavors). They have an array of flavors and toppings.
- Merienda Monster ⭐️ – This is a vegan home baker under the cottage law who bakes Filipino- and Mexican-inspired treats. She hosts pop-ups and offers weekly orders and brunch boxes. Her specialties include malasadas, pandan, unique pop tarts, and other creations.
- Mi Cocina – They offer a mini vegan menu within their menu that includes two types of tacos and a smothered fajita dish. Additional items can be ordered dairy free. Lauren let us know they are also very responsive with dairy-free inquiries.
- Original ChopShop – This healthy eating chain serves several dairy-free protein bowls, acai and pitaya bowls, chia puddings, and a few breakfast eats. Many yo their wraps and sandwiches can also be custom ordered without dairy, since they do have dairy-free bread and tortilla options, and they also have dairy-free, gluten-free tortillas. They offer a fairly good allergen filters and menus, but you do have to inquire for custom orders.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Katy
- Creamistry – Their instant liquid nitrogen ice cream and shakes can be ordered with one of their many dairy-free bases: vegan cashew, vegan coconut, or sorbet (several fruit flavors). They have an array of flavors and toppings.
- 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.
- 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.
- Main Squeze Juice Co. ⭐️ – Their dairy-free menu includes house-made almond mylks, juices, smoothies, smoothie bowls (including acai bowls), toasts with gluten-free and vegan bread, hot lattes, and frozen lattes, complete with non-dairy whip.
- 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.
- Project Pollo ⭐️ – Hannah of Bittersweet also recommended this local vegan “chicken” chain to us. “Right now they’re a homegrown chain with just a handful of locations spread through San Antonio and Austin, but they’re hell-bent on putting Chick-Fil-A out of business. They actually have a fighting chance with their unbelievably crispy, juicy meatless sandwiches, served up at downright affordable prices.” She has photos here.
- Snooze A.M. Eatery – They serve some plant-powered, dairy-free menu items, like vegan pancakes, tofu scramble, porridge, and buddha bowls. Some additional dishes can be custom ordered dairy free.
- Sweet Paris Cafe – As you might expect, they specialize in crepes. But they surprise special diet guests with options for vegan, gluten & dairy-free batter. Their sweet and savory toppings lean heavily toward cream and cheese, but you can customize your order.
- Yogurt Mountain – This froyo chain has rotating flavors that typically include at least one creamy non-dairy or fruity sorbet flavor.
Keller
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Seven Mile Cafe – You can enjoy breakfast or lunch at this homey local chain. Their menu is littered with vegan icons – they even have Vigas (vegan migas), vegan pancakes, and vegan sandwich melts. They offer dairy-free cheese alternative, several milk beverages, vegan bread options, and dairy-free salad dressings, so most of their menu can be made dairy-free.
- Summer Moon Coffee – This cozy coffee house makes a signature moon milk, or sweet cream, that they can make dairy-free with oat, soy, almond or coconut milk.
Kileen
- Grabbagreen – This healthy gluten-free chain serves bowls, salads, juices, smoothies, wraps, and breakfasts, and they are quite transparent on ingredients. They have many vegan options labeled, and most menu items can be custom ordered without dairy.
Kyle
- Summer Moon Coffee – This cozy coffee house makes a signature moon milk, or sweet cream, that they can make dairy-free with oat, soy, almond or coconut milk.
Lake Jackson
- 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. They have two locations in Lake Jackson.
Lake Worth
- Parlor Doughnuts – They offer a vegan / gluten-free doughnut with different custom glazes. All of their shakes can also be made dairy free. Plus, they have a full coffee bar and some other breakfast goods.
Lewisville
- Seven Mile Cafe – You can enjoy breakfast or lunch at this homey local chain. Their menu is littered with vegan icons – they even have Vigas (vegan migas), vegan pancakes, and vegan sandwich melts. They offer dairy-free cheese alternative, several milk beverages, vegan bread options, and dairy-free salad dressings, so most of their menu can be made dairy-free.
Longview
- Cowboy Chicken – They offer rotisserie and crispy chicken in a few flavors, all of which were dairy-free (at last check). They also have several dairy-free sides. Their bowls each contain dairy, but can be custom ordered without. They have an allergen chart, which also details dressing options.
Lubbock
- Creamistry – Their instant liquid nitrogen ice cream and shakes can be ordered with one of their many dairy-free bases: vegan cashew, vegan coconut, or sorbet (several fruit flavors). They have an array of flavors and toppings.
- 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.
- 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.
Magnolia
- Half Baked Cookie Co. – They offer dairy-free, gluten-free keto cookies and deliver both locally and nationally.
Mansfield
- Casa Jacaranda – This is reportedly a very dairy-free friendly spot, and they even have a couple vegan meat options on the menu.
- Char’d: Southeast Asian Kitchen – They specialize in Asian bowls with some signature options and a build-your-own menu. Most of the menu is dairy-free (just ask) and they have many gluten-free and paleo choices.
- Cinnaholic ⭐️ – This is an all-vegan bakery chain that focuses on cinnamon rolls, with choose your own icing and decadent toppings. They have other pastries, coffee, and soft serve, too.
- Luna Grill – Luna Grill does include vegan icons on their menu, and there are a few options. But they also have a great allergen guide that reveals numerous milk-free menu items. The desserts are off-limits, but there are many kabobs, salads, and small bites to choose from.
- Mo’Bettahs – This Hawaiian-style chain is almost completely dairy-free! At last check, all of their meats / shrimp, sides, salads, and sauces were made without dairy. Yes, including the tempura, katsu, and mac salad (contains egg, not dairy). From what we saw, just two of their salad dressings contain milk.
- 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.
McAllen
- Cowboy Chicken – They offer rotisserie and crispy chicken in a few flavors, all of which were dairy-free (at last check). They also have several dairy-free sides. Their bowls each contain dairy, but can be custom ordered without. They have an allergen chart, which also details dressing options.
- 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.
- ProteinHouse – They offer a range of protein-packed breakfasts, salads, bowls, burgers, and wraps with several dairy-free options, and a vegan option in each category. They even have vegan protein pancakes. They offer vegan protein, and can make a select group of smoothies dairy-free, but keep in mind, they use a lot of whey in their blenders (including to make their acai bowls).
McKinney
- 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.
- 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.
- Cinnaholic ⭐️ – This is an all-vegan bakery chain that focuses on cinnamon rolls, with choose your own icing and decadent toppings. They have other pastries, coffee, and soft serve, too.
- I Love Juice Bar ⭐️ – They blend dairy-free smoothies, acai bowls, and smoothie bowls, offer a range of juices and healthy shots, have overnight oats, and also serve vegan-friendly soups.
- Magic Cup Cafe – They offer soy, almond, and coconut milk as dairy-free options for their smoothies, spicy smoothies, frappes, and bubble teas. They also have gluten-free jellies.
- 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.
- Original ChopShop – This healthy eating chain serves several dairy-free protein bowls, acai and pitaya bowls, chia puddings, and a few breakfast eats. Many yo their wraps and sandwiches can also be custom ordered without dairy, since they do have dairy-free bread and tortilla options, and they also have dairy-free, gluten-free tortillas. They offer a fairly good allergen filters and menus, but you do have to inquire for custom orders.
- 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.
- Wulf Burger – Most of their menu can be made dairy-free, since they offer vegan cheese, vegan buns, and vegan sauce. They make grass-fed beef and vegan burgers. Thank you to Katie for this recommendation!
Meadows Place
- Avenida Brazil ⭐️ – This Brazilian steakhouse has a full dairy-free menu, complete with various meats, salad bar options, and hot sides.
Mesquite
- Cinnaholic ⭐️ – This is an all-vegan bakery chain that focuses on cinnamon rolls, with choose your own icing and decadent toppings. They have other pastries, coffee, and soft serve, too.
- HerbMart – This discount health food and nutritional supplement store was recommended by Krystal. They carry a range of vitamins, minerals, protein powders, and shelf-stable special diet food brands.
Midland
- Creamlab N7 – They offer four different dairy-free base options (almond, coconut, oat, and soy), and a range of flavors and mix-ins for your custom order dairy-free ice cream.
Mission
- 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.
Missouri City
- Summer Moon Coffee – This cozy coffee house makes a signature moon milk, or sweet cream, that they can make dairy-free with oat, soy, almond or coconut milk.
Montgomery
- Kale & Kettle Cafe – This health-focused shop is mostly dairy-free, and offers many plant-based options. They are takeout only.
Murphy
- Cinnaholic ⭐️ – This is an all-vegan bakery chain that focuses on cinnamon rolls, with choose your own icing and decadent toppings. They have other pastries, coffee, and soft serve, too.
- 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.
Nacogdoches
- 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.
Pantego
- Mad Mike’s Ice Cream – They scoop four flavors of dairy-free, coconut-based ice cream: coconut, chocolate, cookies and cream, and red velvet.
Pearland
- Cinnaholic ⭐️ – This is an all-vegan bakery chain that focuses on cinnamon rolls, with choose your own icing and decadent toppings. They have other pastries, coffee, and soft serve, too.
- Main Squeze Juice Co. ⭐️ – Their dairy-free menu includes house-made almond mylks, juices, smoothies, smoothie bowls (including acai bowls), toasts with gluten-free and vegan bread, hot lattes, and frozen lattes, complete with non-dairy whip.
Plainview
- Desert Bloom Bakery ⭐️ – This is a gluten-free, dairy-free bakery that whips up cupcakes, cookies, bars, breads, and other treats on order. They have vegan options too.
Plano
- Bellagreen ⭐️ – The “greenest restaurant in Texas” is also one of the most considerate. Their menus are clearly labeled for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegetarian options, and they offer several paleo menu items. They serve a somewhat eclectic array of dishes and have a few locations outside of Houston. Thank you to Pari S. for the recommendation.
- HerbMart – This discount health food and nutritional supplement store was recommended by Krystal. They carry a range of vitamins, minerals, protein powders, and shelf-stable special diet food brands.
- Hot Chicks Nashville Hot Chicken – They boldly state, “Our chicken is Halal, dairy-and-peanut-free to be as inclusive as possible.” It’s also fresh, and never frozn. They make chicken tenders, tacos, rice bowls, and more.
- 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.
- Local Creamery Plano ⭐️ – They offer about a half dozen dairy-free ice cream flavors daily! We spotted flavors like birthday cake, chocolate oreo, and salted caramel. The owner says, “we also have certified gluten free, vegan cones that we make daily, and we make dairy free shakes!”
- Mi Cocina – They offer a mini vegan menu within their menu that includes two types of tacos and a smothered fajita dish. Additional items can be ordered dairy free. Lauren let us know they are also very responsive with dairy-free inquiries.
- Mo’Bettahs – This Hawaiian-style chain is almost completely dairy-free! At last check, all of their meats / shrimp, sides, salads, and sauces were made without dairy. Yes, including the tempura, katsu, and mac salad (contains egg, not dairy). From what we saw, just two of their salad dressings contain milk.
- 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.
- Original ChopShop – This healthy eating chain serves several dairy-free protein bowls, acai and pitaya bowls, chia puddings, and a few breakfast eats. Many yo their wraps and sandwiches can also be custom ordered without dairy, since they do have dairy-free bread and tortilla options, and they also have dairy-free, gluten-free tortillas. They offer a fairly good allergen filters and menus, but you do have to inquire for custom orders.
- The Gelato Cone ⭐️ – They make classic gelato, but also have a nice array of “milk free” options. These usually include dark chocolate and several fruity flavors, which are also egg-free and gluten-free. But be sure to order in a cup, as their cones do contain dairy. However, they can make dairy-free smoothies for you, as they use almond milk. They have two locations in Plano, one downtown and one at the Legacy shops.
Port Arthur
- 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.
Prosper
- 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.
- Peachwave – If you’re craving something cool and creamy, pop into this froyo chain for some dairy-free Dole Whip or sorbet soft serve! They usually have a few flavors each day.
- 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.
Richardson
- Char’d: Southeast Asian Kitchen – They specialize in Asian bowls with some signature options and a build-your-own menu. Most of the menu is dairy-free (just ask) and they have many gluten-free and paleo choices.
- Cinnaholic ⭐️ – This is an all-vegan bakery chain that focuses on cinnamon rolls, with choose your own icing and decadent toppings. They have other pastries, coffee, and soft serve, too.
- Coolgreens – This healthy chain makes salads, wraps, sandwiches, and grain bowls. They have at least one dairy-free option in each category, and most items can be custom ordered dairy-free. At last check, all of their proteins, all of their greens and grains, most of their dressings (just skip the ranches), and most of their toppings (just skip the cheeses) were made without dairy. Even their croutons and spiced pecans are listed as dairy-free.
- 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.
- Luna Grill – Luna Grill does include vegan icons on their menu, and there are a few options. But they also have a great allergen guide that reveals numerous milk-free menu items. The desserts are off-limits, but there are many kabobs, salads, and small bites to choose from.
- Magic Cup Cafe – They offer soy, almond, and coconut milk as dairy-free options for their smoothies, spicy smoothies, frappes, and bubble teas. They also have gluten-free jellies.
- Mi Cocina – They offer a mini vegan menu within their menu that includes two types of tacos and a smothered fajita dish. Additional items can be ordered dairy free. Lauren let us know they are also very responsive with dairy-free inquiries.
- 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.
- Reverie Bakeshop ⭐️ – This sweet little vegan bakery makes a beautiful array of daily cupcakes, cheesecakes, layer cakes, cookies, and other pastries. They also offer a small selection of savories. Their menu is clearly labeled for top allergens, and they have a gluten-free menu. They also take custom orders for cakes, cake pops, cookies, and more.
- Ricky’s Hot Chicken ⭐️ – Their Nashville hot chicken is Halal, and ” goes through a dairy-free and peanut-free process.” It comes in various heat levels, and formats (wings, pieces, nuggets, tenders).
- Spin Pizza – Their allergen menu is a bit cryptic, but we did some digging. Their original and gluten-free crusts (not the cauliflower crust) are dairy-free (and vegan), and they offer Daiya dairy-free cheese, along with red and white dairy-free sauces. So most of their pizzas can be ordered dairy-free. Their rosemary flatbread (without cheese) and custom order salads and sandwiches are also good options. All of their sandwich breads are dairy-free and many of their dressings are dairy-free.
- Tongue in Cheek – Started by a former firefighter, this ice cream shop serves sorbets and creamy vegan flavors, like chocolate and raspberry buttercream.
Richmond
- Summer Moon Coffee – This cozy coffee house makes a signature moon milk, or sweet cream, that they can make dairy-free with oat, soy, almond or coconut milk.
Roanoke
- Palio’s Pizza Cafe – They offer Daiya dairy-free cheese alternative for their pizzas and calzones, and also offer some dairy-free salad and pasta options.
- Pastaza – Thank you to Kelli for this recommendation! “[They have] made dairy free pasta for me several times – you pick the type of pasta, then they can do their tomato sauce, olive oil, and I think one more. It’s so good!”
- 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.
Rockwall
- Mi Cocina – They offer a mini vegan menu within their menu that includes two types of tacos and a smothered fajita dish. Additional items can be ordered dairy free, and their staff is reportedly quite helpful.
- Twisty Treats ⭐️ – All of the soft serve at this ice cream spot is dairy-free! Which means no dairy is processed in their machines. Plus, they blend their own soft serve recipes in house, using Ripple Plant Milk. They also offer many dairy-free and vegan topping options, and vegan waffle bowls, but please note that not all of the toppings and treats are dairy-free. Speak with the staff to verify your options.
- Unrefined Bakery ⭐️ – This gluten-free, soy-free bakery caters to all types of special diet needs. Most of their daily offerings are dairy-free, and they bake specific items for vegan, paleo, and keto customers. Their menu includes all types of sweet and savory baked goods, and they make custom order cakes. They have one location in Rockwall, and few others in nearby cities.
Round Rock
- Creamistry – Their instant liquid nitrogen ice cream and shakes can be ordered with one of their many dairy-free bases: vegan cashew, vegan coconut, or sorbet (several fruit flavors). They have an array of flavors and toppings.
- Hopdoddy Burger Bar – Their focus is clear, and their menu is transparent. They tell you what allergens are in each component of each burger! They offer vegan wheat buns and vegan cheese, so most of their craft burgers can be custom ordered without dairy. They also have a vegan burger on the menu. At last check, other shareables, like crispy tenders and fries, were also dairy-free.
- Mad Greens – They have a great allergen chart, and most of their salads, grain bowls, and wraps can be ordered dairy-free, simply by omitting the cheese and swapping the sauce/dressing if needed. They also have build-your-own 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.
- Promise Pizza – They promise quality at this local, organic, from-scratch pizzeria. Their white and whole-
- Project Pollo ⭐️ – Hannah of Bittersweet also recommended this local vegan “chicken” chain to us. “Right now they’re a homegrown chain with just a handful of locations spread through San Antonio and Austin, but they’re hell-bent on putting Chick-Fil-A out of business. They actually have a fighting chance with their unbelievably crispy, juicy meatless sandwiches, served up at downright affordable prices.” She has photos here.
- Summer Moon Coffee – This cozy coffee house makes a signature moon milk, or sweet cream, that they can make dairy-free with oat, soy, almond or coconut milk.
- 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.”
San Antonio
- Amy’s Ice Creams – Enjoy classic vanilla and chocolate dairy-free ice cream made with oat milk or coconut milk (your choice!) plus Oreo coconut milk ice cream. They also serve sorbet-like fruit ices.
- Bahia Bowls Acai Café – Their range of super fruit bowls and smoothies contain no dairy as is, but note that they do offer whey protein (and two types of plant protein), so dairy is used in the blenders. Make sure to ask for a new, clean, or dedicated blender. Their eats include some dairy-free bites (not all though!), and they offer oatmeal bowls, salads, wraps, and toasts, several of which can be ordered without dairy.
- Black+White Modern Creamery – Their monthly flavor menu typically includes a few dairy-free options. They make almond milk ice cream in flavors like cookies ‘n cream, peanut butter honey, and strawberry.
- Boozy’s Creamery & Craft – They offer a dairy-free flavor daily, like orange sherbet or cookies ‘n cream, which you can enjoy by the scoop, in a shake, or spiked.
- Cinnaholic ⭐️ – This is an all-vegan bakery chain that focuses on cinnamon rolls, with choose your own icing and decadent toppings. They have other pastries, coffee, and soft serve, too.
- Earth Burger – Texas’s first vegan fast food restaurant is big on plants. They serve burgers, sandwiches, wraps, wings, and bowls with a healthier spin. But they do offer coconut soft serve and milkshakes for dessert. They have two locations in San Antonio.
- Freshest Ice Creams – They offer several vegan flavors daily, made with fruit or creamy coconut milk. They can also make dairy-free shakes, smoothies, slushies, and ice cream-topped fruit cups.
- 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.
- Green Vegetarian Cuisine – This is a vegetarian restaurant, but almost every item on their menu can be made vegan. They offer eggs and cheese on certain items, but are happy to substitute with tofu or Daiya dairy-free cheese alternative on any item. All of their desserts, sauces, and breads are vegan. They have two locations in San Antonio, each serving lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch.
- Hopdoddy Burger Bar – Their focus is clear, and their menu is transparent. They tell you what allergens are in each component of each burger! They offer vegan wheat buns and vegan cheese, so most of their craft burgers can be custom ordered without dairy. They also have a vegan burger on the menu. At last check, other shareables, like crispy tenders and fries, were also dairy-free.
- 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.
- Lick Honest Ice Creams ⭐️ – This traditional ice cream shop has two locations, one in Austin and one in San Antonio. They churn a small selection of dairy-free coconut milk ice creams, offer vegan, gluten-free ice cream sandwiches, and always have a couple dairy-free, house-made sauces for topping. But ask before you order a cone – the waffle varieties reportedly contain dairy.
- 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.
- Miss Chickpea’s Bakeshop ⭐️ – This all vegan bakery offers sweet treats daily and also bakes custom order cakes.
- Peachwave – If you’re craving something cool and creamy, pop into this froyo chain for some dairy-free Dole Whip or sorbet soft serve! They usually have a few flavors each day.
- Powerhouse Bakery ⭐️ – This gluten-free bakery offers sweet treats and full meals (including meal prep) with many labeled dairy-free, paleo, and vegan options.
- Project Pollo ⭐️ – My friend Hannah of Bittersweet recommended this local vegan “chicken” chain to us. “Right now they’re a homegrown chain with just a handful of locations spread through San Antonio and Austin, but they’re hell-bent on putting Chick-Fil-A out of business. They actually have a fighting chance with their unbelievably crispy, juicy meatless sandwiches, served up at downright affordable prices.” She has photos here.
- Rise Up – This acai bowl shop makes a huge range of acai and pitaya blends. They also offer smoothies made with almond or coconut milk and coffee drinks with almond milk option. They do offer whey protein as an addition, but also have Vega vegan proteins and collagen protein available.
- Snooze A.M. Eatery – They serve some plant-powered, dairy-free menu items, like vegan pancakes, tofu scramble, porridge, and buddha bowls. Some additional dishes can be custom ordered dairy free.
- Southern Roots Vegan Bakery ⭐️ – This egg-free, dairy-free bakery specializes in donuts, cakes, and cookies. They take custom orders and also ship select products nationwide.
- Summer Moon Coffee – This cozy coffee house makes a signature moon milk, or sweet cream, that they can make dairy-free with oat, soy, almond or coconut milk.
- Sweet Paris Cafe – As you might expect, they specialize in crepes. But they surprise special diet guests with options for vegan, gluten & dairy-free batter. Their sweet and savory toppings lean heavily toward cream and cheese, but you can customize your order.
- 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 Cove – This quirky eatery also hosts live music, a laundromat, and a car wash. Their menu is casual Mexican-American with several vegan options, including a vegan bacon cheeseburger, vegan nachos, and more. They have a vegan cashew cheese, and can make most menu items dairy free, on request.
- Viva Vegeria ⭐️ – If you’re craving good Tex-Mex, then this is the restaurant to hit up. The entire menu is vegan, gluten-free, and made from scratch. They serve various types of nachos, flautas, enchiladas, tacos, tamales, and more.
- Wholesome Eating – This small cafe and bakery focuses on special diets. Their menu includes a selection of vegan muffins, pizzas, and more. They do take custom orders.
San Marcos
- Earth Burger – Texas’s first vegan fast food restaurant is big on plants. They serve burgers, sandwiches, wraps, wings, and bowls with a healthier spin. But they do offer coconut soft serve and milkshakes for dessert. They have one location in San Marcos.
- Hopdoddy Burger Bar – Their focus is clear, and their menu is transparent. They tell you what allergens are in each component of each burger! They offer vegan wheat buns and vegan cheese, so most of their craft burgers can be custom ordered without dairy. They also have a vegan burger on the menu. At last check, other shareables, like crispy tenders and fries, were also 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.
- Project Pollo ⭐️ – Hannah of Bittersweet also recommended this local vegan “chicken” chain to us. “Right now they’re a homegrown chain with just a handful of locations spread through San Antonio and Austin, but they’re hell-bent on putting Chick-Fil-A out of business. They actually have a fighting chance with their unbelievably crispy, juicy meatless sandwiches, served up at downright affordable prices.” She has photos here.
- Summer Moon Coffee – This cozy coffee house makes a signature moon milk, or sweet cream, that they can make dairy-free with oat, soy, almond or coconut milk.
Shenandoah
- Avenida Brazil ⭐️ – This Brazilian steakhouse has a full dairy-free menu, complete with various meats, salad bar options, and hot sides.
Sherman
- Cowboy Chicken – They offer rotisserie and crispy chicken in a few flavors, all of which were dairy-free (at last check). They also have several dairy-free sides. Their bowls each contain dairy, but can be custom ordered without. They have an allergen chart, which also details dressing 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.
- 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.
Southlake
- Coolgreens – This healthy chain makes salads, wraps, sandwiches, and grain bowls. They have at least one dairy-free option in each category, and most items can be custom ordered dairy-free. At last check, all of their proteins, all of their greens and grains, most of their dressings (just skip the ranches), and most of their toppings (just skip the cheeses) were made without dairy. Even their croutons and spiced pecans are listed as dairy-free.
- Creamistry – Their instant liquid nitrogen ice cream and shakes can be ordered with one of their many dairy-free bases: vegan cashew, vegan coconut, or sorbet (several fruit flavors). They have an array of flavors and toppings.
- Luna Grill – Luna Grill does include vegan icons on their menu, and there are a few options. But they also have a great allergen guide that reveals numerous milk-free menu items. The desserts are off-limits, but there are many kabobs, salads, and small bites to choose from.
- Mi Cocina – They offer a mini vegan menu within their menu that includes two types of tacos and a smothered fajita dish. Additional items can be ordered dairy free. Lauren let us know they are also very responsive with dairy-free inquiries.
- 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.
- Pinch of Salt Pastries ⭐️ – They do not have a retail storefront, but you can order from this gluten-free bakery or find their pastries at restaurants in the area. They bake many dairy-free and vegan items daily, including cinnamon rolls, muffins, donuts, and cookies. They’re also happy to accomodate allergen special orders.
Spring
- B. Good – With the help of their allergen chart, you can order crispy chicken sandwiches, chicken tenders, veggie burgers, and fries, and custom order various burgers, salads, and bowls. Vegan and gluten-free options are also available.
- 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.
- Cinnaholic ⭐️ – This is an all-vegan bakery chain that focuses on cinnamon rolls, with choose your own icing and decadent toppings. They have other pastries, coffee, and soft serve, too.
- Common Bond ⭐️ – At their Bistros and Bakeries, they offer a few dairy-free entrees, labeled on their menu. They also have vegan gingersnaps for a treat, and some dairy-free breads (just ask). For coffee drinks, they have almond, coconut, soy, and oat milk options.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- SO Veganly ⭐️ – Nutrition is the focus at this grab-and-go meal spot. They offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner entrees, juices, smoothies, and meal prep options. All items are also soy-free and corn-free, and most are gluten-free.
- Wisdom Vegan Bakery ⭐️ – You can enjoy all types of sweets, savories, and sips a this shop. They serve smoothies, juices, and lattes with an array of dairy-free milks, have sandwiches, wraps, and burgers, and of course have an array of sweet treats. They do take custom cake orders.
Stafford
- 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.
Stephenville
- Grumps Burgers – Kara wrote in to tell us about her favorite burger spot before going dairy free. Fortunately, they were happy to help her with dairy-free options, too. Their buns are dairy-free, and they use oil, not butter, to toast them. The French fries and sweet potato fries are cooked in the same fryer as dairy-containing items (like their onion rings and corn nuggets), so use caution if cross-contamination is a concern. Kara says, “I would always double check before ordering but this burger place is too tasty to not have on the list.”
Sugarland
- Cinnaholic ⭐️ – This is an all-vegan bakery chain that focuses on cinnamon rolls, with choose your own icing and decadent toppings. They have other pastries, coffee, and soft serve, too.
- 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.
- Main Squeze Juice Co. ⭐️ – Their dairy-free menu includes house-made almond mylks, juices, smoothies, smoothie bowls (including acai bowls), toasts with gluten-free and vegan bread, hot lattes, and frozen lattes, complete with non-dairy whip.
- 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.
- Sweet Paris Cafe – As you might expect, they specialize in crepes. But they surprise special diet guests with options for vegan, gluten & dairy-free batter. Their sweet and savory toppings lean heavily toward cream and cheese, but you can customize your order.
Temple
- Gogo’s Treatery – Thanks to Holly for recommending this sweet shop. “The always have two flavors of dairy free soft serve sorbet as well as one flavor of dairy free sorbetto with several toppings to choose from. They also will fill special order dairy free cupcakes.”
- Grabbagreen – This healthy gluten-free chain serves bowls, salads, juices, smoothies, wraps, and breakfasts, and they are quite transparent on ingredients. They have many vegan options labeled, and most menu items can be custom ordered without dairy.
Terrell
- HerbMart – This discount health food and nutritional supplement store was recommended by Krystal. They carry a range of vitamins, minerals, protein powders, and shelf-stable special diet food brands.
Texarkana
- 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.
The Colony
- Creamistry – Their instant liquid nitrogen ice cream and shakes can be ordered with one of their many dairy-free bases: vegan cashew, vegan coconut, or sorbet (several fruit flavors). They have an array of flavors and toppings.
- Mi Cocina – They offer a mini vegan menu within their menu that includes two types of tacos and a smothered fajita dish. Additional items can be ordered dairy free. Lauren let us know they are also very responsive with dairy-free inquiries.
- 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 Woodlands
- Bellagreen ⭐️ – The “greenest restaurant in Texas” is also one of the most considerate. Their menus are clearly labeled for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegetarian options, and they offer several paleo menu items. They serve a somewhat eclectic array of dishes and have a few locations outside of Houston. Thank you to Pari S. for the recommendation.
- Creamistry – Their instant liquid nitrogen ice cream and shakes can be ordered with one of their many dairy-free bases: vegan cashew, vegan coconut, or sorbet (several fruit flavors). They have an array of flavors and toppings.
- 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.
- Main Squeze Juice Co. ⭐️ – Their dairy-free menu includes house-made almond mylks, juices, smoothies, smoothie bowls (including acai bowls), toasts with gluten-free and vegan bread, hot lattes, and frozen lattes, complete with non-dairy whip.
- Snooze A.M. Eatery – They serve some plant-powered, dairy-free menu items, like vegan pancakes, tofu scramble, porridge, and buddha bowls. Some additional dishes can be custom ordered dairy free.
- Sweet Paris Cafe – As you might expect, they specialize in crepes. But they surprise special diet guests with options for vegan, gluten & dairy-free batter. Their sweet and savory toppings lean heavily toward cream and cheese, but you can customize your order.
Tomball
- Callie’s Kitchen ⭐️ – Their menu is 100% vegan, which includes creative tacos, salads, lattes, and more.
- Half Baked Cookie Co. – They offer dairy-free, gluten-free keto cookies and deliver both locally and nationally.
Trophy Club
- HG Sply Co. – Thanks to Jenna at The Urben Life for recommending this restaurant to us. “Great rooftop restaurant/bar with plenty allergy friendly options! The vegan queso is great.” They started with a paleo focus, but have evolved with a more inclusive menu. They do use a fair bit of dairy cheese, but have a big range of dairy-free and gluten-free options.
Tyler
- Cinnaholic ⭐️ – This is an all-vegan bakery chain that focuses on cinnamon rolls, with choose your own icing and decadent toppings. They have other pastries, coffee, and soft serve, too.
- Fresh Juice Bar and Smoothies – This local spot is friendly to all, with almond and oat milks for smoothies, fresh fruit bowls, fruit waters, and they also have some Mexican eats.
- Wildflower Cake Company – Alyssa emailed to tell us about the cottage bakery she runs with her sister-in-law, serving East Texas. They specialize in “dairy free, gluten free, dye free, soy free, nut free, peanut free, egg free, and vegan cakes, cupcakes, and more.” They also bake custom wedding cakes.
Victoria
- 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.
- Gluten-Freedom – This little gluten-free bakery operates under the Texas cottage law. Their menu of cakes, cupcakes, and other treats is quite expansive, and it includes many dairy-free options – but you have to ask. They do clearly highlight vegan options. You can find them at the local farmer’s market.
Waco
- Harvest on 25th – This is a vegetarian restaurant with dairy-free and vegan options throughout their menus. They serve a full breakfast, brunch, and lunch, and also have some daily baked goodies.
- 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.
- Unshakeable Milkshakes – They reportedly offer a vegan crazy shake, complete with dairy-free ice cream and whip. They also have ice cream by the scoop.
Watauga
- The Healthy Hippie Cafe ⭐️ – This plant-based cafe and bar serves a casual selection of shareables, bowls, burgers, wraps, and breakfast items.
Webster
- Avenida Brazil ⭐️ – This Brazilian steakhouse has a full dairy-free menu, complete with various meats, salad bar options, and hot sides.
- Hopdoddy Burger Bar – Their focus is clear, and their menu is transparent. They tell you what allergens are in each component of each burger! They offer vegan wheat buns and vegan cheese, so most of their craft burgers can be custom ordered without dairy. They also have a vegan burger on the menu. At last check, other shareables, like crispy tenders and fries, were also dairy-free.
- Main Squeze Juice Co. ⭐️ – Their dairy-free menu includes house-made almond mylks, juices, smoothies, smoothie bowls (including acai bowls), toasts with gluten-free and vegan bread, hot lattes, and frozen lattes, complete with non-dairy whip.
- Snooze A.M. Eatery – They serve some plant-powered, dairy-free menu items, like vegan pancakes, tofu scramble, porridge, and buddha bowls. Some additional dishes can be custom ordered dairy free.
- 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.
Wylie
- Cowboy Chicken – They offer rotisserie and crispy chicken in a few flavors, all of which were dairy-free (at last check). They also have several dairy-free sides. Their bowls each contain dairy, but can be custom ordered without. They have an allergen chart, which also details dressing 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.
- OMG Creamery – They have a great selection of non-dairy ice cream flavors, including chocolate, coconut, and various fruit varieties, which are usually made with coconut milk, but they’ve been experimenting with oat milk flavors, too.
Photo from Hot Chicks Nashville Hot Chicken
Restaurant & Grocery Chains found throughout Texas
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.
- ALDI
- 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.
- Cinnaholic – See our Cinnaholic listing for full details.
- 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).
- Freebirds World Burrito – See our Freebirds Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
- Fuzzy’s Taco Shop ⭐️ – This casual Tex-Mex chain provides a dairy-free menu that even tells you how to custom order just about anything on the menu. They offer burritos, tacos, bowls, breakfasts, salads, and even nachos sans cheese.
- Maggiano’s Little Italy – See our Maggiano’s Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
- Mellow Mushroom – See our Mellow Mushroom Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
- MOD Pizza – See our MOD Pizza Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
- Nekter Juice Bar – See our Nekter Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
- Pei Wei – See our Pei Wei Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
- Paciugo Gelato Caffe – See our Pacuigo Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
- 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.
- Red Robin – See our Red Robin Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
- Rosa’s Tortilla Factory – They can offer you a print out that details what can be ordered without milk, including custom order options. The dairy-free choices include custom order plates, crispy tacos, tamales, tostadas without cheese, and various add-ons.
- Rudy’s “Country Store” and Bar-B-Q – They offer an allergen chart, and at last check, all of their meats and most of their sandwiches were dairy-free, and all of their sauces were gluten-free and top allergen-free. We also noted dairy-free brownies and a handful of side options, but note that their breakfast menu is much heavier in dairy.
- Salad and Go – They offer an allergen chart to help you custom order most of the salads and wraps on their menu. A couple items are dairy-free as is, and several just need to be ordered without cheese or with a dressing swap.
- 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.
- Trader Joe’s
- Which Wich – Jennifer wrote in to recommend this sandwich chain that she visits with her dairy allergic daughter. Their breads, most of their meats (skip the corned beef and meatballs), all non-cheese toppings, and even their house “Wich sauce” are made without dairy. Skip the cheese, pesto, and ranch when you build your own. They also have a vegan black bean patty, but the wheat bread does contain honey. Guests can order a “bowlwich” (no bun) for gluten-free. They do have an allergen chart available.
Photo from Skull & Cakebones
Local Dairy-Free Food & Drink Producers in Texas
These dairy-free friendly companies don’t have their own retail location, but are in Texas. 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!
- Blenders & Bowls – They make smoothie bowls that you can find in the frozen food section of natural food stores and are based out of Austin.
- Credo Foods – Their cashew cheese sauces are straight out of Austin and even served at some restaurants, like Guero’s Tacos.
- Mooala – They started with banana milk, but now this Dallas company makes all types of dairy-free milk beverages and creamers.
- Nadamoo – They have a local shop, too, but you can find the dairy-free pints from this Austin producer throughout the state.
- Thunderbird Bars – This is one of my favorite bar companies. They’re employee-owned and located in Austin.
Photo from Sweet Ritual
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!
9 Comments
Nice list! I didn’t see Fat Cats on the Austin list.
Thanks Karen!
How certain are you that the macaroni salad at Hawaiian Bros is dairy free? I went to one and asked them and they told me it wasn’t… when I told her I’d seen on a website that it was she said that it’s made in a place where a lot of dairy is used… so I’m assuming it’s a “may contain dairy” item? I was too scared to eat it even though it says here that their full menu is dairy free
Someone else commented on this last year, so I contacted the company again. They confirmed that it is made with mayonnaise, but not dairy. Their staff was confusing the mayo for dairy. I can’t say where it is made, but I’d imagine it’s from a centralized source. The company even sent me the ingredients for it.
Here are the mac salad ingredients: Cooked Pasta (Durum Semolina, Niacin, Ferrous Sulphate (Iron), Thiamine Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid), Mayonnaise (Soybean Oil, Water, Egg Yolk, Distilled Vinegar, Sugar, Whole Egg, Salt, Xanthan Gum), Seasoning (Salt, Black Pepper, Dehydrated Garlic, Salt, Sugar, Citric Acid, Dehydrated Onion, Parsley, Yellow FD&C #5 Lake, Lemon Oil, Less Than 2% Silicon Dioxide Added To Prevent Caking), Potassium Sorbate And Sodium Benzoate (Preservatives).
Allergens: Wheat, gluten, egg.
I hope that helps!
I’m extremely lactose intolerant, and I can eat the macaroni salad at Hawaiian Bros. It currently shares a kitchen with several other restaurants because they don’t have their own place yet but are looking to build one so cross contamination could be an issue.
Wulf Burger opened in Frisco. The meat is Halal, and they have vegan and dairy free burger options. Tasted great!
Thank you Katie! I’ve added it.
There is a restaurant in Mansfield called Luna Grill, they do Mediterranean food and they are very allergy friendly. Their app can be customized for many dietary requirements and when you order dine in, just tell them to make it dairy free. Ordering was surprisingly easy.
Thanks Karen!