Virginia: A Cozy Selection of Dairy-Free Friendly Eateries

Last Update in October 2023! Comfort food is still the mother cuisine in the Old Dominion state. Even their “plant-based” options are loaded with indulgences, like “chicken” and waffles, donuts, cakes, and pizzas. You can learn more about them, and even more dairy-free options, in this Virginia guide. 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.

Photos clockwise from top left: Smoothies from Fruitive, Baked Goodies from Bakeshop, Bowls at Fruitive, Vegan Paffles from Iron Paffles & Coffee, Vegan Burgers and Donuts from Sugar Shack.

Dairy-Free Virginia: 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.)

Alexandria

• &pizza – See our &pizza Dairy-Free Menu Guide for more details.
• Aslin Beer Co – Thank you to Brooke for recommending this taproom and restaurant. “My husband found a brewery and we’re here now and found that they’re good with dairy free! They have vegan cheese for their pizzas and while some of their beers have milk in them, they clearly label with *has milk sugar. They were also great when I asked about the pretzel having milk in it (it doesn’t.)”
• Blackwall Hitch – This elevated seafood and Italian restaurant has added options to their menu for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan guests. They have risotto, pizza, and other menu options, along with some naturally or easily dairy-free seafood dishes.
• Burtons Grill – This upscale bar and grill boasts classic American dishes with fresh ingredients and a touch of global flair. Year after year, they’re top rated as an allergy-friendly restaurant. They follow strict allergy protocols, have well-trained staff, and even attentive to allergies with their online ordering and takeout.
• California Tortilla – This build-your-own bowl or burrito chain offers a simple allergen menu, and almost everything is dairy-free. They also have vegan options.
• Casa Rosada Artisan Gelato – In addition to vegan sorbettos, they offer a handful of creamy dairy-free and vegan gelato flavors, like vanilla, chocolate, and pistachio.
• Clyde’s – This old-world “American bar” continuously receives top marks from Allergy Eats for staff training and allergy awareness. Their menus cover brunch, burgers, bowls, salads, steak, and seafood, and they have protocols in place to safely prepare meals for most allergy and special diet needs.
• For Five Coffee ⭐️ – Beyond beverages, this cafe serves breakfast and lunch menus with a smattering of dairy-free options clearly labeled. They offer dishes like Bibimbap, Poke, and a unique spin on Eggs Benedict.
• Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams – You can read more about the dairy-free ice cream options at this scoop shop chain on our Jeni’s Ice Cream post.
• La Madeleine – On the menu, this chain offers a couple dairy-free salad options, avocado toast, breakfast sides, and fudge brownies! They have fresh baked dairy-free baguettes and loaves, so many of their sandwiches can also be custom ordered without dairy.
• Mission BBQ – This restaurant chain offers a great allergen chat and lots of dairy-free options. Most of their BBQ meats and sauces are dairy-free, and they have a good handful of sides and plate specials. At last check, their sandwich bread contained milk, but their buns did not! Ask at your location since bread sourcing can vary.
• PLNT Burger ⭐️ – This quick serve vegan burger joint is located inside Whole Foods. Their menu includes a selection of burgers, hot dogs, and fries, along with dairy-free soft serve, oatmilk shakes, and cookies for dessert.
• Pokemoto ⭐️ – Enjoy their poke bowls with a range of dairy-free sauces, and get dairy-free Dole Whip for dessert!
• Silver Diner – Their allergen menu reveals a surprisingly range of dairy-free options. They include plant-based shakes (made with oatmilk), dairy-free omelette and egg breakfasts, vegan just egg breakfasts, pancakes with dairy-free whip, wings, tenders, salads, sandwiches (most can be custom ordered as most of their breads are milk-free), burgers, fish, and more.
• Ted’s Montana Grill – Founded by media mogul and rancher Ted Turner, this American chain serves a meat-heavy menu with lots of dairy-free options. See our Dairy-Free Guide for Ted’s Montana Grill for more details.
• The Dairy Godmother / Just Fine Donuts ⭐️ – Inside this dairy-based frozen custard shop you’ll find an all-vegan donut shop!
• 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.
• Village Brauhaus ⭐️ – German and Austrian cuisine tends to be dairy heavy, but this restaurant labels dairy-free and gluten-free options. They are light on sides, but there is a good selection of bratwursts to choose from, and of course, plenty of beers to wash them down.

Annandale

• 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.

Arlington

• &pizza – See our &pizza Dairy-Free Menu Guide for more details.
• Bakeshop – This is a from-scratch, family-owned, traditional bakery with the full range of treats. But they also offer oodles of vegan goodies daily. They have vegan cupcakes, cookies, and even ice cream cookie sandwiches. They also take custom cake orders.
• Bartaco – Their allergen menu is so detailed, that it states exactly what in the item contains the allergen. And their dairy-free options are abundant. Most of their tacos, rice bowls, other entrees, and sides are, or can be ordered, dairy-free. But the dessert and kids menus are heavy in dairy.
• Busboys and Poets – Grace says this local restaurant chain “has a few vegan and dairy free options and a lot of things can be modified to be made dairy free if it doesn’t naturally come that way!” They serve classic, casual menus for brunch, lunch, happy hour, and dinner, and offer alternatives like vegan cheese. They even have vegan cheesecake on their dessert menu.
• California Tortilla – This build-your-own bowl or burrito chain offers a simple allergen menu, and almost everything is dairy-free. They also have vegan options.
• Elevation Burger – This progressive fast food chain caters to all types of special diets, with a few plant-based and paleo burger options on their menu. Almost all of their burgers and sandwiches can be ordered without dairy, they offer dairy-free cheese alternative, and at last check, their chicken tenders were even dairy-free. Plus, they offer vegan milkshakes made with oatmilk ice cream and almond milk.
• 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.
• For Five Coffee ⭐️ – Beyond beverages, this cafe serves breakfast and lunch menus with a smattering of dairy-free options clearly labeled. They offer dishes like Bibimbap, Poke, and a unique spin on Eggs Benedict.
• Hummus Republic – Their build-your-own pita, wrap, or bowl menu is filled with dairy-free options. They even offer vegan proteins, and most components are dairy-free (includes hummuses and dressings). They clearly label for vegan and gluten-free guests.
• Ice Cream Jubilee – Their sorbets range from fruity to creamy (made with coconut), and are dairy-free and vegan. They play off indulgent flavors like gin and tonic, coconut caramel, and horchata.
• 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.
• Le Pain Quotidien – This Belgian bake shop has a plethora of dairy-free fresh baked breads, sandwiches, soups, and breakfast bowls (think oats, chia, and granola options). Almond, coconut, and oat milks are available or coffee drinks and tea lattes. And they often a dairy-free pastry or two – ask at your location.
• Pizza Fusion – It’s easy to order dairy-free pizza at this small chain. All of their pizza doughs are vegan, their pizza sauce is vegan, and they offer two dairy-free cheese alternatives: Daiya and Follow Your Heart. They can also customize sandwiches and salads as needed. And for dessert, they have gluten-free vegan brownies!
• 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.
• RASA – Thank you to Jennifer for recommending this Indian fast casual spot. “They have several vegan bowls, and list the ingredients of each item, so you know what’s dairy free and what isn’t. The real treat is their vegan soft serve gelato in two delicious flavors, masala chai and mango lassi.”
• Silver Diner – Their allergen menu reveals a surprisingly range of dairy-free options. They include plant-based shakes (made with oatmilk), dairy-free omelette and egg breakfasts, vegan just egg breakfasts, pancakes with dairy-free whip, wings, tenders, salads, sandwiches (most can be custom ordered as most of their breads are milk-free), burgers, fish, and more.
• Ted’s Montana Grill – Founded by media mogul and rancher Ted Turner, this American chain serves a meat-heavy menu with lots of dairy-free options. See our Dairy-Free Guide for Ted’s Montana Grill for more details.
• True Food Kitchen – See our True Food Kitchen post for full details.
• Zoup! Eatery ⭐️ – Whether you’re craving salad, sandwiches, bowls, or one of their popular soups, this

Ashburn

• &pizza – See our &pizza Dairy-Free Menu Guide for more details.
• 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.
• California Tortilla – This build-your-own bowl or burrito chain offers a simple allergen menu, and almost everything is dairy-free. They also have vegan options.
• Elevation Burger – This progressive fast food chain caters to all types of special diets, with a few plant-based and paleo burger options on their menu. Almost all of their burgers and sandwiches can be ordered without dairy, they offer dairy-free cheese alternative, and at last check, their chicken tenders were even dairy-free. Plus, they offer vegan milkshakes made with oatmilk ice cream and almond milk.
• Nando’s – Check their nutrition information pdf for allergens and a dairy-free column! They seem to include eggs with dairy, but it is still very helpful. At last check, dairy-free items at Nando’s included most of their chicken (including their famous peri-peri), tons of sauces, a selection of sides, and more. They also have some vegan-friendly items.
• Pizza Twist – They have an extensive vegan pizza menu with dairy-free cheese, all types of sauces, and a plethora of dairy-free toppings. Almost any pizza on their menu can be ordered without dairy.
• Silver Diner – Their allergen menu reveals a surprisingly range of dairy-free options. They include plant-based shakes (made with oatmilk), dairy-free omelette and egg breakfasts, vegan just egg breakfasts, pancakes with dairy-free whip, wings, tenders, salads, sandwiches (most can be custom ordered as most of their breads are milk-free), burgers, fish, and more.
• 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.

Bailey’s Crossroads

• La Madeleine – On the menu, this chain offers a couple dairy-free salad options, avocado toast, breakfast sides, and fudge brownies! They have fresh baked dairy-free baguettes and loaves, so many of their sandwiches can also be custom ordered without dairy.

Blacksburg

• 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.

Bristow

• CUPPi Coffee – They offer dairy-free smoothies and coffee drinks with your choice of “milk” (a few dairy-free options available), and have a dairy-free ice cream option, too.
• Sweet Zen7 Nature’s Cafe ⭐️ – Ice creams made with oat milk or bananas, smoothies and smoothie bowls, buddha bowls, zen burgers and nachos – it’s all dairy-free, with gluten-free options, at this holistic cafe.

Broadlands

• Clyde’s – This old-world “American bar” continuously receives top marks from Allergy Eats for staff training and allergy awareness. Their menus cover brunch, burgers, bowls, salads, steak, and seafood, and they have protocols in place to safely prepare meals for most allergy and special diet needs.

Burke

• Coal Fire Pizza – This regional chain offers Daiya cheese alternative, and they’ve told us that their pizza crusts are dairy-free, and their classic, signature, and spicy pizza sauces are also made without dairy. So they can customize a variety of dairy-free pizzas. They also said their wings and fries are also made without dairy, and they can customize several salads, sandwiches, and even an appetizer or two to be dairy-free.

Chantilly

• 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.
• MidnighTreats – This is a dairy-free and vegan cookie shop with order and pick-up available. They don’t use tree nuts either, but do use wheat, coconut, and soy ingredients. They offer fun flavors like Birthday Bash, Cookies ‘n Cream, and Cinna-Roll.
• Mission BBQ – This restaurant chain offers a great allergen chat and lots of dairy-free options. Most of their BBQ meats and sauces are dairy-free, and they have a good handful of sides and plate specials. At last check, their sandwich bread contained milk, but their buns did not! Ask at your location since bread sourcing can vary.
• 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.

Charlottesville

• Atlas Coffee – One of the few shops that doesn’t charge extra for dairy-free milk! They have soy, almond, and oat milk options.
• Burger Bach – This New Zealand inspired gastro pub is friendly toward special diet guests. They label for vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options, though there are obviously more dairy-free choices then what is labeled. That said, there are some appetizers, seafood options, and vegan entrees.
• Burtons Grill – This upscale bar and grill boasts classic American dishes with fresh ingredients and a touch of global flair. Year after year, they’re top rated as an allergy-friendly restaurant. They follow strict allergy protocols, have well-trained staff, and even attentive to allergies with their online ordering and takeout.
• 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.
• 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.
• Iron Paffles & Coffee – Paffles are puff pastry waffles, and this shop uses them to make all types of sweet and savory sandwiches. They offer vegan paffles, gluten-free dairy-free waffles, and gluten-free vegan waffles when you custom build your own. They also have all types of dairy-free toppings, like dairy-free cheese, vegan mac, chia jelly, and coconut whipped cream.
• Mission BBQ – This restaurant chain offers a great allergen chat and lots of dairy-free options. Most of their BBQ meats and sauces are dairy-free, and they have a good handful of sides and plate specials. At last check, their sandwich bread contained milk, but their buns did not! Ask at your location since bread sourcing can vary.

Chesapeake

• California Tortilla – This build-your-own bowl or burrito chain offers a simple allergen menu, and almost everything is dairy-free. They also have vegan options.
• Clean Eatz – This healthy fast casual chain offers a straight-forward allergen guide and many options for building your own bowl, salad, or wrap.
• Mission BBQ – This restaurant chain offers a great allergen chat and lots of dairy-free options. Most of their BBQ meats and sauces are dairy-free, and they have a good handful of sides and plate specials. At last check, their sandwich bread contained milk, but their buns did not! Ask at your location since bread sourcing can vary.
• 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.
• 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.

Chester

• 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.

Chincoteague

• Island Creamery – They offer creamy vegan flavors made with coconut milk, like coconut, chocolate mint oreo, mocha, and strawberry colada. They also serve some sorbets.

Christianburg

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

Colonial Heights

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

Culpeper

• 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.

Dale City

• Sweet Vegan Eats ⭐️ – They offer acai bowls, soft serve, hard pack ice cream, sundaes, big ice cream sandwiches, cookies, cupcakes, and more!

Danville

• 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.

Dulles

• &pizza – See our &pizza Dairy-Free Menu Guide for more details.

Dumfries

• California Tortilla – This build-your-own bowl or burrito chain offers a simple allergen menu, and almost everything is dairy-free. They also have vegan options.

Fairfax

• &pizza – See our &pizza Dairy-Free Menu Guide for more details.
• 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.
• Elevation Burger – This progressive fast food chain caters to all types of special diets, with a few plant-based and paleo burger options on their menu. Almost all of their burgers and sandwiches can be ordered without dairy, they offer dairy-free cheese alternative, and at last check, their chicken tenders were even dairy-free. Plus, they offer vegan milkshakes made with oatmilk ice cream and almond milk.
• Frutta Bowls – This smoothie and smoothie bowl chain offers dairy-free acai, pitaya, greens, and oatmeal bases. Their granola, fruits, and many of their toppings are dairy-free, and they offer dairy-free options for their toasts and protein bites.
• 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.
• 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.
• Le Pain Quotidien – This Belgian bake shop has a plethora of dairy-free fresh baked breads, sandwiches, soups, and breakfast bowls (think oats, chia, and granola options). Almond, coconut, and oat milks are available or coffee drinks and tea lattes. And they often a dairy-free pastry or two – ask at your location.
• 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.
• Playa Bowls – You’ll find an abundance of dairy-free bowls of all types at this acai, smoothie, poke spot. See our Playa Bowls post for more details.
• RASA – Thank you to Jennifer for recommending this Indian fast casual spot. “They have several vegan bowls, and list the ingredients of each item, so you know what’s dairy free and what isn’t. The real treat is their vegan soft serve gelato in two delicious flavors, masala chai and mango lassi.”
• Silver Diner – Their allergen menu reveals a surprisingly range of dairy-free options. They include plant-based shakes (made with oatmilk), dairy-free omelette and egg breakfasts, vegan just egg breakfasts, pancakes with dairy-free whip, wings, tenders, salads, sandwiches (most can be custom ordered as most of their breads are milk-free), burgers, fish, and more.
• True Food Kitchen – See our True Food Kitchen post for full details.

Falls Church

• Bakeshop – Their Arlington location was so successful, they opened this second location. It’s a traditional bakery, but they offer a big range of vegan sweets daily. They have vegan cupcakes, cookies, and even ice cream cookie sandwiches. They also take custom cake orders.
• Bolay – This is a build your own bowl Florida chain that is mostly dairy free. At last check, all of their proteins, greens, grains, toppings (aside from parmesan), and sauces (even the herb pesto and creamy garlic sauces) were made without dairy. They even had a dairy-free dessert option. They have a full allergen chart available.
• Elevation Burger – This progressive fast food chain caters to all types of special diets, with a few plant-based and paleo burger options on their menu. Almost all of their burgers and sandwiches can be ordered without dairy, they offer dairy-free cheese alternative, and at last check, their chicken tenders were even dairy-free. Plus, they offer vegan milkshakes made with oatmilk ice cream and almond milk.
• 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.
• Loving Hut ⭐️ – This fast food vegan chain has one location in Virginia, at last check. See our Loving Hut post for more details.
• Silver Diner – Their allergen menu reveals a surprisingly range of dairy-free options. They include plant-based shakes (made with oatmilk), dairy-free omelette and egg breakfasts, vegan just egg breakfasts, pancakes with dairy-free whip, wings, tenders, salads, sandwiches (most can be custom ordered as most of their breads are milk-free), burgers, fish, and more.

Forest

• Rookie’s – This local ice cream sandwich shop offers a “vegan classic” cookie that you can enjoy filled with their dairy-free, vegan ice cream flavor (on rotation). They also serve almond and oat milk, so you can order dairy-free “cookies and milk.”
• The Crazy Mason Milkshake Bar – This outrageous dessert shop offers Hersey’s Oatmazing dairy-free ice cream in vanilla, chocolate and cookies n cream. You can order it straight up or blended with oat milk for your own crazy milkshake. The staff can share what toppings are made without milk.

Fredericksburg

• Blue Cow Ice Cream Co. – They use coconut milk to make their creamy vegan chocolate and vegan feature flavors (like salted caramel). They also carry sorbets in summer.
• Clean Eatz – This healthy fast casual chain offers a straight-forward allergen guide and many options for building your own bowl, salad, or wrap.
• Freddy’s Donuts – They don’t advertise it, but most of their donuts are vegan. Just ask an employee, and they can point out the options.
• Kickshaws Gluten-Free Bakery ⭐️ – This bakeshop is a 100% dedicated gluten-free facility that’s pretty much dairy-free too. They focus on allergy-friendly baked goods made without top allergens. All of their traditional baked goods are vegan, with the exception of a few grain-free goodies.
• Mission BBQ – This restaurant chain offers a great allergen chat and lots of dairy-free options. Most of their BBQ meats and sauces are dairy-free, and they have a good handful of sides and plate specials. At last check, their sandwich bread contained milk, but their buns did not! Ask at your location since bread sourcing can vary.

Gainesville

• Inspired Cravings Vegan Bakery & Cafe ⭐️ – This isn’t just a vegan bakery. They’re free of dairy, eggs, peanuts, soy, and tree nuts. They bake pretty vegan cupcakes and layer cakes, and have gluten-free options available.
• Mission BBQ – This restaurant chain offers a great allergen chat and lots of dairy-free options. Most of their BBQ meats and sauces are dairy-free, and they have a good handful of sides and plate specials. At last check, their sandwich bread contained milk, but their buns did not! Ask at your location since bread sourcing can vary.
• Nando’s – Check their nutrition information pdf for allergens and a dairy-free column! They seem to include eggs with dairy, but it is still very helpful. At last check, dairy-free items at Nando’s included most of their chicken (including their famous peri-peri), tons of sauces, a selection of sides, and more. They also have some vegan-friendly items.

Glen Allen

• Burger Bach – This New Zealand inspired gastro pub is friendly toward special diet guests. They label for vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options, though there are obviously more dairy-free choices then what is labeled. That said, there are some appetizers, seafood options, and vegan entrees.
• 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.
• Silver Diner – Their allergen menu reveals a surprisingly range of dairy-free options. They include plant-based shakes (made with oatmilk), dairy-free omelette and egg breakfasts, vegan just egg breakfasts, pancakes with dairy-free whip, wings, tenders, salads, sandwiches (most can be custom ordered as most of their breads are milk-free), burgers, fish, and more.

Hampton

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

Harrisonburg

• Bruster’s Real Ice Cream – This old-fashioned ice creamery chain churns several coconut milk ice cream flavors, like dairy-free graham central station and vegan vanilla, mint chocolate chip, Oreo, and more.
• 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.

Henrico

• Gelati Celesti – They offer a dairy-free chocolate gelato flavor that’s made with coconut milk.

Herndon

• Chiboo Bakery – This macaron focused bakery makes all gluten-free macarons, and they can make many flavors dairy-free on request. They also make a popular dairy-free pandan kaya jam that’s made with coconut cream.
• Crème de la Crop ⭐️ – They’ve been packing pints of dairy-free ice cream and selling them at Reston markets for a while. But now the have a fully plant-based storefront selling scoops and ice cream sandwiches. They use a coconut base to churn small, artisanal batches in unique seasonal flavors like Tahini Caramel, Grasshopper, and Coconut Key Lime.
• Mission BBQ – This restaurant chain offers a great allergen chat and lots of dairy-free options. Most of their BBQ meats and sauces are dairy-free, and they have a good handful of sides and plate specials. At last check, their sandwich bread contained milk, but their buns did not! Ask at your location since bread sourcing can vary.

Leesburg

• 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.
• Sweetz Bakery – They have gluten-free/dairy-free and vegan cupcake flavors daily. Both types include several plays on chocolate and vanilla.

Loudoun County

• The Difference Baker – Their certified gluten-free facility is also free of nuts and soy. They aren’t dairy-free, but do have dairy-free options available for most of their products, both sweet and savory. And there are some vegan options on the menu.

Lynchburg

• Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh – This is a build-your-own pita, rice bowl, wrap, salad, gyro, or plate restaurant. The gyro bread and tzatziki contain dairy, but all other types can be made dairy-free. At last check, all of their proteins, other sauces, toppings (aside from cheese), and baklava were made without milk. They offer allergen information that is very helpful.
• 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.
• Mission BBQ – This restaurant chain offers a great allergen chat and lots of dairy-free options. Most of their BBQ meats and sauces are dairy-free, and they have a good handful of sides and plate specials. At last check, their sandwich bread contained milk, but their buns did not! Ask at your location since bread sourcing can vary.
• Rolled Cold Creamery – They have a vegan oat milk based option for their rolled ice cream that’s free of dairy, gluten, almonds, tree nuts, and coconut. They offer a range of flavor options and you can order a dairy-free shake.
• 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.

Manassas

• 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.
• California Tortilla – This build-your-own bowl or burrito chain offers a simple allergen menu, and almost everything is dairy-free. They also have vegan options.
• The Lemonade Bakery ⭐️ – Everything is egg-free, nut-free, and peanut-free at this allergy-friendly bakery. They also have a full dairy-free and vegan menu, with tons of cookies and cupcakes. They do bake custom order treats and cakes for weddings and other special occasions.

McLean

• Coastal Flats – Thanks to Gloria for this recommendation. “They were phenomenal with my order! I called ahead and spoke with the manager, who was very certain in their selection of dairy free dishes. The server was very thorough when checking with the chef about what options I had. The choices for appetizers was slim, and most sauces contain dairy, but the dish I ended up having (salmon with broccolini) was absolutely delicious. They are part of the Great American Restaurant group, and they are very allergy aware, as far as I can tell!”
• Flower Child – This health focused chain is located in the Tysons area. See our Flower Child post for more details.
• PLNT Burger ⭐️ – This quick serve vegan burger joint is located inside Whole Foods. Their menu includes a selection of burgers, hot dogs, and fries, along with dairy-free soft serve, oatmilk shakes, and cookies for dessert.
• 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.
• Seasons 52 – See our Seasons 52 Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
• Silver Diner – Their allergen menu reveals a surprisingly range of dairy-free options. They include plant-based shakes (made with oatmilk), dairy-free omelette and egg breakfasts, vegan just egg breakfasts, pancakes with dairy-free whip, wings, tenders, salads, sandwiches (most can be custom ordered as most of their breads are milk-free), burgers, fish, and more.

Mechanicsville

• AnnaB’s Gluten Free – This bakery runs a dedicated gluten-free and peanut-free facility, and can easily cater to dairy-free and vegan requests. They have an array of vegan cookies right on their menu, make some other dairy-free items (with eggs), and take special 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.
• 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.
• Gelati Celesti – They offer a dairy-free chocolate gelato flavor that’s made with coconut milk.

Midlothian

• 7 Muffins a Day ⭐️ – This dedicated dairy-free and gluten-free bakery makes a big range of sweet and savory bread products, doughnuts, cakes, mousse cups, muffins, cinnamon rolls, cookies, and more. They also bake custom cakes and gifts, and have vegan and sugar-free options 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.
• Burger Bach – This New Zealand inspired gastro pub is friendly toward special diet guests. They label for vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options, though there are obviously more dairy-free choices then what is labeled. That said, there are some appetizers, seafood options, and vegan entrees.
• Gelati Celesti – They offer a dairy-free chocolate gelato flavor that’s made with coconut milk.
• Mission BBQ – This restaurant chain offers a great allergen chat and lots of dairy-free options. Most of their BBQ meats and sauces are dairy-free, and they have a good handful of sides and plate specials. At last check, their sandwich bread contained milk, but their buns did not! Ask at your location since bread sourcing can vary.
• Napa Kitchen & Wine ⭐️ – Their menu is liberally dotted with dairy-free labels, including starters, salads, sushi, steaks, and more. They even offer vegan desserts, burgers, and pizzas, and also label gluten-free options.
• Sugar Shack Donuts – A few years back, their head baker removed the eggs and milk from their yeast dough recipe. So their raised donuts are now vegan, but not all of the toppings. They label the fully vegan donuts, which often include apple fritters, cinnamon rolls, Boston cremes, maple bars, and more. They also have a full line of gluten-free cake donuts (most of which are vegan), but those are only available on Mondays and Fridays. For their coffee drinks, they offer almond, coconut, oat, and soymilks. And guess what – they have dairy-free burgers, vegan burgers, seasoned waffle fries, and vegan milkshakes, too! This location also tosses pizzas with dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan options.
• The Urban Farmhouse Market & Café – Homestyle brunch and lunch are the focus at this healthier coffeehouse. They have vegan options for sandwiches, soups, and salads, and many more items, including some egg dishes, can be made dairy-free on request. They offer vanilla soy, almond, oat, and coconut milk beverages for their coffee and tea drinks, and have dairy-free smoothies on the menu.

Mosaic

• Bartaco – Their allergen menu is so detailed, that it states exactly what in the item contains the allergen. And their dairy-free options are abundant. Most of their tacos, rice bowls, other entrees, and sides are, or can be ordered, dairy-free. But the dessert and kids menus are heavy in dairy.

New Kent

• Kilted Creamery – They offer a good selection of dairy-free and vegan ice cream flavors at this local shop.

Newport News

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

Norfolk

• Carolina Cupcakery – This is a traditional sweet bakery with a FAB – Food Allergy Bakery. The food allergy side is gluten-free and nut-free, and has dairy-free, vegan, keto, and other special diet options.
• Cure Coffeehouse – They offer almond and oat milk for their coffee and tea lattes, have a special beetroot latte, and use a vegan chocolate sauce to make their hot chocolate. They also offer some vegan eats, including avocado toast, bagels with unique toppings, jackfruit tacos, and more. Some additional items can be ordered dairy free.
• Fruitive ⭐️ – Their organic, plant-based menu is dairy-free, vegan, and quite varied. They have wellness smoothies and juices, superfood smoothie and acai bowls, salads, sandwiches, produce-packed wraps, pizzas made with cashew cheese, waffles topped with coconut whipped cream, and more. Gluten-free options are clearly labeled, and they offer guides for keto, whole30, paleo, and raw vegan customers.
• 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.
• Mission BBQ – This restaurant chain offers a great allergen chat and lots of dairy-free options. Most of their BBQ meats and sauces are dairy-free, and they have a good handful of sides and plate specials. At last check, their sandwich bread contained milk, but their buns did not! Ask at your location since bread sourcing can vary.
• Mr. Shawarma ⭐️ – Thank you to Kate for this recommendation. She emailed this local restaurant to ask about their dairy-free options. “To my delight they replied that beyond their dessert items (baklava & halva) the rest of the menus is 100% dairy free! A fantastic favorite of many around here for their great food (we would drive nearly an hour to get it even before needing dairy free!).”
• 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.
• Pizza Fusion – It’s easy to order dairy-free pizza at this small chain. All of their pizza doughs are vegan, their pizza sauce is vegan, and they offer two dairy-free cheese alternatives: Daiya and Follow Your Heart. They can also customize sandwiches and salads as needed. And for dessert, they have gluten-free vegan brownies!

North Chesterfield

• Clean Eatz – This healthy fast casual chain offers a straight-forward allergen guide and many options for building your own bowl, salad, or wrap.
• Hang Space – Boisterous burgers, comforting chik’n sandwiches, old-fashioned french fries, and trendy tater tots are on the menu at this all-vegan spot.
• Sugar Shack Donuts – A few years back, their head baker removed the eggs and milk from their yeast dough recipe. So their raised donuts are now vegan, but not all of the toppings. They label the fully vegan donuts, which often include apple fritters, cinnamon rolls, Boston cremes, maple bars, and more. They also have a full line of gluten-free cake donuts (most of which are vegan), but those are only available on Mondays and Fridays. For their coffee drinks, they offer almond, coconut, oat, and soymilks. And guess what – they have dairy-free burgers, vegan burgers, seasoned waffle fries, and vegan milkshakes, too!

Portsmouth

• 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.

Powhatan

• 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.

Reston

• &pizza – See our &pizza Dairy-Free Menu Guide for more details.
• Bartaco – Their allergen menu is so detailed, that it states exactly what in the item contains the allergen. And their dairy-free options are abundant. Most of their tacos, rice bowls, other entrees, and sides are, or can be ordered, dairy-free. But the dessert and kids menus are heavy in dairy.
• California Tortilla – This build-your-own bowl or burrito chain offers a simple allergen menu, and almost everything is dairy-free. They also have vegan options.
• Clyde’s – This old-world “American bar” continuously receives top marks from Allergy Eats for staff training and allergy awareness. Their menus cover brunch, burgers, bowls, salads, steak, and seafood, and they have protocols in place to safely prepare meals for most allergy and special diet needs.
• Honeygrow – This fresh restaurant concept offers several dairy-free stir fries, build-your-own salad with many dairy-free dressing options, and a “honeybar” where you pick your fruit, honey drizzle, and other toppings. They have a great allergen chart available, which breaks down all components for the build-your-own options.
• La Madeleine – On the menu, this chain offers a couple dairy-free salad options, avocado toast, breakfast sides, and fudge brownies! They have fresh baked dairy-free baguettes and loaves, so many of their sandwiches can also be custom ordered without dairy.
• MidnighTreats – They bake a big array of giant vegan cookies (in a shared facility) with classic, unique, and seasonal flavors. And as their name implies, they are open into the wee hours. Vicki says their cookies are big and crumble like in texture.
• Pitango – Their dairy-free sorbet selection rivals their gelato, with several fruit and chocolate flavors offered daily.
• Playa Bowls – You’ll find an abundance of dairy-free bowls of all types at this acai, smoothie, poke spot. See our Playa Bowls post for more details.
• True Food Kitchen – See our True Food Kitchen post for full details.

Richmond

• &pizza – See our &pizza Dairy-Free Menu Guide for more details.
• 521 Biscuits & Waffles – This is a gluten-free cafe. Their biscuits contain dairy, but their waffles are dairy-free, and there are several sweet varieties.
• Barrio Taqueria + Tequila – They have a vegan seven layer burrito, three types of tacos, fried plantains, and some sides on their menu. Plus additional items can be ordered without dairy. They also swirl dairy-Free Dole Whip.
• Blue Cow Ice Cream Co. – They use coconut milk to make their creamy vegan chocolate and vegan feature flavors (like salted caramel). They also carry sorbets in summer.
• 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.
• Burger Bach – This New Zealand inspired gastro pub is friendly toward special diet guests. They label for vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options, though there are obviously more dairy-free choices then what is labeled. That said, there are some appetizers, seafood options, and vegan entrees.
• Clean Eatz – This healthy fast casual chain offers a straight-forward allergen guide and many options for building your own bowl, salad, or wrap.
• DeLuca Gelato – Their dairy-free sorbetto selection is might, with dark chocolate, chocolate peppermint, pina colada, and a big array of fruity flavors.
• Ellwood Thompson’s – Think Whole Foods, but smaller and more local. This grocery store has a great selection of special diet foods and hot food to go. Their regular menu includes many dairy-free and vegan options (like empanadas!).
• Gelati Celesti – They offer a dairy-free chocolate gelato flavor that’s made with coconut milk.
• Idle Hands Bread Company – This local bakeshop offers a selection of sweet and savory vegan pastries daily, in addition to some dairy-free breads.
• 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.
• Ipanema Cafe – This dark and moody vegetarian restaurant has vegan and gluten-free options for almost everything on the menu. They serve an eclectic little array of sandwiches, salads, and entrees for lunch and dinner, and also offer dessert.
• Lebanese Bakery – The focus is primarily savory at this local restaurant. They have many vegan items on the menu, including flatbreads, fatayer, falafel, salads, and more. Some additional meat-based, dairy-free items are available.
• Minglewood Bake Shop ⭐️ – Everything is vegan at this sweet shop. They have a full dairy-free coffee bar, serve an array of pastries (from cupcakes to cinnamon rolls to croissants),  swirl soft serve in cups, sundaes, or floats, and blend milkshakes.
• Mission BBQ – This restaurant chain offers a great allergen chat and lots of dairy-free options. Most of their BBQ meats and sauces are dairy-free, and they have a good handful of sides and plate specials. At last check, their sandwich bread contained milk, but their buns did not! Ask at your location since bread sourcing can vary.
• Nate’s Bagels – All of their bagels are dairy-free, and all are vegan except for the Nate’s bagel, which contains egg. They offer a cashmear dairy-free “cream cheese” and have two unique vegan bagel sandwiches on their menu. Additional sandwiches can be made dairy-free.
• North End Gelato – They offer more than a dozen vegan ice cream options, made with oat or coconut milk. They also make vegan sundaes with hot fudge, cookie dough, whipped cream, and other dairy-free toppings.
• North End Juice Co – All of their smoothies and acai bowls can be ordered without dairy (they use almond milk and offer vegan protein), and they also have some dairy-free toast, wrap, and poke bowl options.
• Organic Krush ⭐️ – This regional chain is located in the suburb of Short Pump. Almost everything on their menu is or can be dairy-free, and they have dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan  labels right on their menu. Service includes breakfast all day, custom bone broth soups, and build your own wrap, salad, bowl, or tacos, with flavors ranging Tex Mex to Thai. They also serve acai bowls, snacks, and a kids menu. For dessert, they have treats like Mamma’s Breakfast Cookies (a recipe they shared with us!).
• Pearl’s Bake Shoppe – They specialize in cupcakes, and have a few vegan flavors daily, but also do cakes, usually have some other vegan sweets available. Vegan and gluten-free options are also available on order.
• Philly Vegan ⭐️ – Lucy let us know about this great restaurant. “Fabulous vegan take-out, specializing in plant-based Philly cheesesteaks. Their menu even includes dairy free milkshakes!”
• Pies & Pints – They offer Daiya cheese alternative for their pizzas and sandwiches. At last check, their pizza crust was vegan-friendly, and they also had dairy-free bread options available, so several items can be ordered without dairy.
• Pita Pit – See our Pita Pit Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
• 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.
• Roastology ⭐️ – Thanks to Lucy for sharing this local find. “Coffee shop and cafe with great coffee, homemade dairy-free flavored syrups, and many dairy free options for food and baked goods. It was nice to sit down and order a muffin with my coffee again! They clearly label things as vegan, and even noted that one of their specialty lattes DID contain dairy.” They also have dairy-free labels on items and offer quick breakfast items and sandwiches.
• 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.
• Secret Sandwich Society ⭐️ – Their menu is labeled and detailed with dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan options. The selection includes sandwiches, burgers, salad bowls, and even cookies.
• Sugar Shack Donuts – This is their flagship location. Their raised donut dough is dairy-free and egg-free, so most of their donuts are vegan – it just depends on the toppings. The vegan options are labeled, and often include apple fritters, long johns, Boston cremes, and various iced and glazed options. They also have a full line of gluten-free cake donuts (most of which are vegan), but those are only available on Mondays and Fridays. For their coffee drinks, they offer almond, coconut, oat, and soymilks. And for lunch, they have vegan burgers (regular burgers also), fries, and vegan milkshakes.
• Sunflower Gardenz ⭐️ – They don’t have a storefront, so you must order and pick up, but this is an all-vegan bakery. They bake sourdough, pastries, and more, and also offer savory dishes.
• Sweet Spot Ice Cream Café – Head to the Shockoe Bottom neighborhood to find this friendly ice cream shop. In addition to traditional ice cream, they have non-dairy soy and coconut based ice cream, sorbet, and Italian ice flavors on rotation. They also offer dairy-free options for coffee drinks.
• The Daily Kitchen & Bar – This health-forward cafe is located in the Carytown area. They clearly note vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free options on their menu, and almost everything on the menu can be made dairy free. They have plant-based shareables like buffalo cauliflower with vegan ranch dip and vegan queso queso. And for mains, you can order bowls, burgers or all types, entrees made with fish, chicken, or grass-fed beef, and pizzas made with dairy-free Teese or Daiya cheese alternative (and a gluten-free crust, if needed).
• The Urban Farmhouse Market & Café – Homestyle brunch and lunch are the focus at this healthier coffeehouse. They have vegan options for sandwiches, soups, and salads, and many more items, including some egg dishes, can be made dairy-free on request. They offer vanilla soy, almond, oat, and coconut milk beverages for their coffee and tea drinks, and have dairy-free smoothies on the menu.
• WPA (Well-More Pastry Alliance) Bakery – They offer some gluten-free and vegan treats, like donuts, but call ahead as they aren’t baked daily. They also serve some dairy-free breakfast and lunch items, and take custom orders for vegan cakes and pies.
• Yummvees ⭐️ – This vegan restaurant serves brunch and dinner, with an array of comforting dishes, like pierogis, lasagna, and biscuits and gravy.

Roanoke

• Blue Cow Ice Cream Co. – They use coconut milk to make their creamy vegan chocolate and vegan feature flavors (like salted caramel). They also carry sorbets in summer.
• 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.
• 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.
• CoreLife Eatery – If you love nutritious bowls, then this is a chain to hit up. They serve salad bowls, grain bowls, and bone broth and vegetable broth bowls. You can also choose from a selection of tacos. They have a few dairy-free items on the menu, but also have build-your-own bowl choices with a plethora of dairy-free ingredients.
• Crème Fresh ⭐️ – The founders of RND Coffee and Bloom teamed up to bring this completely dairy-free ice cream shop to the Wasena neighborhood. It’s next door to the RND Coffee Lounge. They offer several flavors daily, usually made with an oat milk and/or coconut milk base, have waffle cones and gluten-free cones, offer a selection of toppings (including vegan caramel sauce!), and blend dairy-free milkshakes.
• Hang 10 Hawaiian Ice & Cream – They offer authentic vegan Hawaiian ice flavors and dairy-free Dole whip as a soft serve option. They usually offer a rotating array of creamy, fruity flavors.
• Mission BBQ – This restaurant chain offers a great allergen chat and lots of dairy-free options. Most of their BBQ meats and sauces are dairy-free, and they have a good handful of sides and plate specials. At last check, their sandwich bread contained milk, but their buns did not! Ask at your location since bread sourcing can vary.
• Pita Pit – See our Pita Pit Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
• RND Coffee – They readily pour oat milk and almond milk lattes, and often have some other dairy-free or vegan treats available.
• Rookie’s – This local ice cream sandwich shop offers a “vegan classic” cookie that you can enjoy filled with their dairy-free, vegan ice cream flavor (on rotation). They also serve almond and oat milk, so you can order dairy-free “cookies and milk.”
• Screamin Vegan ⭐️ – This fast food vegan restaurant serves burgers, along with an array of hot sandwiches, classic sides, and cold salads.

Reston

• 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.
• Not Your Average Joe’s – David Crowley of Cooking Chat recommended this cozy, neighborhood-style restaurant chain for food allergy friendliness. “The staff at Not Your Average Joe’s takes a lot of care to get the order straight and work with you to come up with something that can be enjoyed safely.” Their menu is creative and eclectic, with a good handful of dairy-free salads and warm ups. Their Culinary Director says they can also custom prepare sandwiches, burgers, and select steak and seafood dishes without dairy.
• Silver Diner – Their allergen menu reveals a surprisingly range of dairy-free options. They include plant-based shakes (made with oatmilk), dairy-free omelette and egg breakfasts, vegan just egg breakfasts, pancakes with dairy-free whip, wings, tenders, salads, sandwiches (most can be custom ordered as most of their breads are milk-free), burgers, fish, and more.

Seven Corners

• &pizza – See our &pizza Dairy-Free Menu Guide for more details.

Smithfield

• Cure Coffeehouse – They offer almond and oat milk for their coffee and tea lattes, have a special beetroot latte, and use a vegan chocolate sauce to make their hot chocolate. They also offer some vegan eats, including avocado toast, bagels with unique toppings, jackfruit tacos, and more. Some additional items can be ordered dairy free.

Springfield

• &pizza – See our &pizza Dairy-Free Menu Guide for more details.
• Maggie McFly’s – They label for gluten-free, not dairy-free, but this hip eatery and bar offers quite a few dairy-free options on their menu. Many of their items have a healthier spin, with salads, wraps, and burgers, and bowls available.
• Out of the Bubble Bakery ⭐️ – This is a vegan bakery, which offers an array of cupcakes and cookies and bakes custom cakes. They also have gluten-free options.
• Silver Diner – Their allergen menu reveals a surprisingly range of dairy-free options. They include plant-based shakes (made with oatmilk), dairy-free omelette and egg breakfasts, vegan just egg breakfasts, pancakes with dairy-free whip, wings, tenders, salads, sandwiches (most can be custom ordered as most of their breads are milk-free), burgers, fish, and more.

Stafford

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

Sterling

• Burtons Grill – This upscale bar and grill boasts classic American dishes with fresh ingredients and a touch of global flair. Year after year, they’re top rated as an allergy-friendly restaurant. They follow strict allergy protocols, have well-trained staff, and even attentive to allergies with their online ordering and takeout.
• Coal Fire Pizza – This regional chain offers Daiya cheese alternative, and they’ve told us that their pizza crusts are dairy-free, and their classic, signature, and spicy pizza sauces are also made without dairy. So they can customize a variety of dairy-free pizzas. They also said their wings and fries are also made without dairy, and they can customize several salads, sandwiches, and even an appetizer or two to be dairy-free.
• Mission BBQ – This restaurant chain offers a great allergen chat and lots of dairy-free options. Most of their BBQ meats and sauces are dairy-free, and they have a good handful of sides and plate specials. At last check, their sandwich bread contained milk, but their buns did not! Ask at your location since bread sourcing can vary.
• 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.
• Pokemoto ⭐️ – Enjoy their poke bowls with a range of dairy-free sauces, and get dairy-free Dole Whip for dessert!

Suffolk

• 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.

Tysons

• &pizza – See our &pizza Dairy-Free Menu Guide for more details.
• Bluestone Lane – This Australian-style cafe chain does a great job in labeling top allergens, and they offer a small selection of dairy-free sandwich and bowl options on their menu, along with a couple vegan items. Their full coffee bar has oat milk and almond milk options, and they sometimes have dairy-free specialty drink promotions.
• California Tortilla – This build-your-own bowl or burrito chain offers a simple allergen menu, and almost everything is dairy-free. They also have vegan 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.
• 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.

Vienna

• Honeygrow – This fresh restaurant concept offers several dairy-free stir fries, build-your-own salad with many dairy-free dressing options, and a “honeybar” where you pick your fruit, honey drizzle, and other toppings. They have a great allergen chart available, which breaks down all components for the build-your-own options.
• 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.

Virginia Beach

• 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.
• Baladi Mediterranean Cafe – They have an impressive small range of vegan entrees, and many more dishes that are authentically dairy free. Enjoy kebabs, moussaka, falafel, and more.
• Blue Cow Ice Cream Co. – They use coconut milk to make their creamy vegan chocolate and vegan feature flavors (like salted caramel). They also carry sorbets in summer.
• Brixx Wood Fired Pizza – This is a popular regional chain that offers dairy-free cheese alternative at no extra charge! In fact, their classic pizza crust and sauce are vegan, and they can make any veggie pizza vegan. Their gluten-free pizza dough is also dairy-free, but it contains egg. They also have a fantastic allergen list. It tells you the specific items with dairy AND the items that contain dairy even when you hold the cheese.
• 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.
• Clean Eatz – This healthy fast casual chain offers a straight-forward allergen guide and many options for building your own bowl, salad, or wrap.
• Fruitive ⭐️ – Their organic, plant-based menu is dairy-free, vegan, and quite varied. They have wellness smoothies and juices, superfood smoothie and acai bowls, salads, sandwiches, produce-packed wraps, pizzas made with cashew cheese, waffles topped with coconut whipped cream, and more. Gluten-free options are clearly labeled, and they offer guides for keto, whole30, paleo, and raw vegan customers.
• Gelati Celesti – They offer a dairy-free chocolate gelato flavor that’s made with coconut milk.
• Maggie McFly’s – They label for gluten-free, not dairy-free, but this hip eatery and bar offers quite a few dairy-free options on their menu. Many of their items have a healthier spin, with salads, wraps, and burgers, and bowls available.
• Mission BBQ – This restaurant chain offers a great allergen chat and lots of dairy-free options. Most of their BBQ meats and sauces are dairy-free, and they have a good handful of sides and plate specials. At last check, their sandwich bread contained milk, but their buns did not! Ask at your location since bread sourcing can vary.
• 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.
• My Vegan Sweet Tooth ⭐️ – Get ready to cave to your cravings at this bakery and dessert shop. They offer frozen treats and every baked good imaginable – from cookies and cheesecakes to bagels and savory pies. And they do bake custom cakes for weddings and other events.
• PizzaRev – This build-your-own pizza joint has four dairy-free pizza crusts (two of which are gluten-free, and three of which are vegan), Daiya dairy-free cheese alternative, and most of their sauces and toppings are dairy-free (skip the alfredo, pesto, and meatballs). They also offer Beyond Meat sausage for vegan guests.
• 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.
• Sweetberry – This bowl spot offers all types of dairy-free smoothie bowls (acai, pitaya, coconut, and green) with a range of toppings. They also build poke bowls and salad bowls, with ample dairy-free choices. They also have many vegan options.
• The Bumbling Bee ⭐️ – This “Vegan Junk Food Bar” serves burgers, poutine, and other savory favorites, and have milkshakes, cookie sandwiches, and more for dessert.
• The Green Cat Juice Bar & Market – The menu at this wholesome spot includes dairy-free smoothies, smoothie bowls, juices, oatmeals, toasts, salads, soups, raw desserts, and more. They’re plant-based, with many gluten-free options, and open daily for breakfast, lunch, and early dinner.
• 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.
• Weng’s Kitchen – Thank you to Sarah for recommending this local Filipino and Chinese fusion food truck. She says, “only one item has dairy – crab rangoon. Everything else is dairy free and delicious including pancit, fried rice, orange. chicken, chicken skewers, and lumpia. You can get plates or trays depending how many you are feeding. Highly recommend and a family favorite especially knowing my daughter can safely eat what everyone else is.” They post their daily location on Facebook and Instagram.
• Zeke’s Beans n Bowls – This Hawaiian-style acai and poke bowl shop makes ordering vegan easy. They have vegan options for their egg breakfasts, pitas, and salads, too. But most of their menu is naturally dairy-free, or can be made dairy-free with ease.

Williamsburg

• 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.
• Food For Thought – Thanks to Bill for recommending this restaurant. “Food For Thought is famous with the locals for their attention to allergens. Before taking your order the ALWAYS ask if anyone has any allergies. The menu is extensive, the service always excellent and prices very reasonable.” Their menu is rich with seafood, chicken, and other hearty dishes, and they have vegan items 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.
• 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.
• 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.

Willow Lawn

• &pizza – See our &pizza Dairy-Free Menu Guide for more details.

Winchester

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

Woodbridge

• &pizza – See our &pizza Dairy-Free Menu Guide for more details.
• Brixx Wood Fired Pizza – This is a popular regional chain that offers dairy-free cheese alternative at no extra charge! In fact, their classic pizza crust and sauce are vegan, and they can make any veggie pizza vegan. Their gluten-free pizza dough is also dairy-free, but it contains egg. They also have a fantastic allergen list. It tells you the specific items with dairy AND the items that contain dairy even when you hold the cheese.
• Mission BBQ – This restaurant chain offers a great allergen chat and lots of dairy-free options. Most of their BBQ meats and sauces are dairy-free, and they have a good handful of sides and plate specials. At last check, their sandwich bread contained milk, but their buns did not! Ask at your location since bread sourcing can vary.
• Nando’s – Check their nutrition information pdf for allergens and a dairy-free column! They seem to include eggs with dairy, but it is still very helpful. At last check, dairy-free items at Nando’s included most of their chicken (including their famous peri-peri), tons of sauces, a selection of sides, and more. They also have some vegan-friendly items.
• Not Your Average Joe’s – David Crowley of Cooking Chat recommended this cozy, neighborhood-style restaurant chain for food allergy friendliness. “The staff at Not Your Average Joe’s takes a lot of care to get the order straight and work with you to come up with something that can be enjoyed safely.” Their menu is creative and eclectic, with a good handful of dairy-free salads and warm ups. Their Culinary Director says they can also custom prepare sandwiches, burgers, and select steak and seafood dishes without dairy.
• Pokemoto ⭐️ – Enjoy their poke bowls with a range of dairy-free sauces, and get dairy-free Dole Whip for dessert!
• Silver Diner – Their allergen menu reveals a surprisingly range of dairy-free options. They include plant-based shakes (made with oatmilk), dairy-free omelette and egg breakfasts, vegan just egg breakfasts, pancakes with dairy-free whip, wings, tenders, salads, sandwiches (most can be custom ordered as most of their breads are milk-free), burgers, fish, and more.
• Smokey Bones – This Eastern chain has been recommended by a few readers for their volume of dairy-free options. It’s a sit-down BBQ restaurant with ample meats and sides, custom burgers, and other mains to choose from. In the past, they’ve had a spotty allergen chart, so be sure to verify “safe” options with the staff.

Yorktown

• Donutz On a Stick – They offer vegan donut flavors daily, and reportedly have dairy-free ice cream options too.
• 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.

Pizzas and Smoothies from Fruitive.

Restaurant & Grocery Chains found throughout Virginia

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.

• Ben & Jerry’s – See our Ben & Jerry’s Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
• Cooper’s Hawk – See our Cooper’s Hawk Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
• Mellow Mushroom – See our Mellow Mushroom Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
• P.F. Chang’s – See our P.F. Chang’s Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
• Sweetfrog – See our Sweetfrog Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
• Uno Pizzeria & Grill – See our Uno’s Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
• Which Wich – Jennifer wrote in to recommend this sandwich chain, “My daughter who’s allergic to dairy enjoyed the Build You Own BLT sandwich. All breads are dairy free there. The workers gladly changed gloves when we requested to lessen chances for cross contamination.” They visit the Charlottesville location. Most of the meats, the vegan black bean patty, all non-cheese toppings, and even their house “Wich sauce” are also dairy-free.

Local Dairy-Free Food & Drink Producers in Virginia

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

Unmoo – They craft vegan cheeses, like mozzarella and cheddar, with a cashew base. They often host pizza pop-ups, and you can buy blocks of their cheese alternatives locally.

Dairy-Free Gluten-Free Waffles at 521 Biscuits & Waffles.

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!