DC’s food scene has changed a lot since the pandemic. Some places closed, and prices went up. But there are still great options if you plan ahead and book early.
Fine Dining: Oyster Oyster’s Chesapeake Vegan Vision
- Oyster Oyster (Shaw): Seasonal tasting menus with a deep love for local farms and the Chesapeake. You can choose a fully vegan menu. Reservations are essential.
- Elizabeth’s Gone Raw (Downtown): Elegant, fully vegan tasting menu in a historic row house. A special-occasion pick—book early.
Everyday Eats: PLNT Burger & DC Vegan’s Crowd-Pleasers
- DC Vegan (Dupont Circle): Italian-style deli vibes. Think jackfruit sliders, eggplant parm, salads—great for take-away or catering.
- PLNT Burger (multiple locations, often inside Whole Foods): Burgers, fries, and shakes—quick and fun.
- Shouk: Totally vegan, fresh, and fast.
- HipCityVeg: Burgers and sandwiches made from plants.
- Pow Pow: Bowls and bites with plenty of veggies.
Non-Vegan but Vegan-Friendly (good options on the menu)
- José Andrés spots:
- Oyamel Cocina Mexicana (near the Mall)
- Zaytinya (near the Convention Center)
- Oyamel Cocina Mexicana (near the Mall)
- CAVA (many locations): Build-your-own bowls.
- Busboys and Poets: Café, bookstore, and events with vegan choices.
- Purple Patch (Mount Pleasant): Filipino kitchen with vegan options.
- Chaia: Vegetarian tacos with clear labeling.
- Baked by Yael (by the National Zoo): Bagels, sandwiches, and vegan sweets (not 100% vegan, but options are marked).
Tip: Menus change. A “vegan” item online can be sold out or different in person. If it matters for you, call ahead.
Beyond the Plate: CK Westbrook’s Vegan Sci-Fi Advocacy
CK is the author of The Impact Series—page-turning sci-fi where the main characters are vegan and big themes (like the environment) are front and center. Stories can open minds, and CK uses fiction to make caring for the planet feel exciting and real.
- Learn more: ckwestbrook.com
- Publisher: 4horsemenpublications.com
Culture Capital: Free Museums, The Kennedy Center & Sports
- Smithsonian Museums on and around the National Mall are free (Air & Space, Natural History, African American History & Culture, and more).
- Dining in Museums: Most have at least one vegan-friendly option; try the café at the National Museum of the American Indian and ask which dishes are fully vegan.
- Performing Arts: Check the Kennedy Center for shows; it often hosts free performances.
- Sports: Capitals (hockey), Wizards (basketball), Nationals (baseball) all bring big-game energy—plan around game nights if you’re staying nearby.
When to Visit: Navigating the Political Calendar & Crowds
- Cherry Blossoms (usually March): Gorgeous but packed. Visit just before or after for fewer crowds.
- Inaugurations & Big Events: Expect high prices and low availability.
- Congress in Recess (often August; varies in election years): The city is calmer and easier to book.
- Heat: August is hot. Museums help—they’re cool and indoors.
Local Insights: The Real Cost of Dining & Tipping in DC
- Prices: Food costs are higher than they used to be. Pick one “splurge” meal and keep the rest casual.
- Tipping: Many restaurants add service fees or include gratuity in tasting menus. Read the bill so you don’t double-tip.
- Easy Wins on Capitol Hill: House and Senate office buildings often have salad bars and simple vegan options at lunch.
Community & Events
- VSDC – Veg Society of DC: Find potlucks, sanctuary visits (like Poplar Springs), bike rides, and meet-ups. It’s a friendly way to connect with locals.
Plan Your DC Vegan Day
- Morning: National Museum visit + coffee.
- Lunch: Grab bowls at CAVA or a deli spread from DC Vegan.
- Afternoon: More museums or a walk by the monuments.
- Dinner: Book Oyster Oyster or Elizabeth’s Gone Raw for a special night.
- Dessert: Baked by Yael for a sweet vegan treat.
About Our Guest: CK Westbrook
CK is a DC-based sci-fi author and environmentalist. Her series, The Impact Series, blends action with big ideas—veganism, the planet, and how our choices matter. Find her books and newsletter at ckwestbrook.com. She’s on X @WestbrookCK, on Bluesky ckwestbrook.bsky.social, and as CK Westbrook Author on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
Ready to Explore?
- Books: Explore The Impact Series at ckwestbrook.com.
Join the conversation: What’s your favorite DC vegan restaurant? Tag @WorldVeganTravel on Instagram!
Learn More About What is Discussed on the Podcast
- 🌱 The current state of the vegan food scene in Washington DC, from Michelin-level dining to quick casual eats.
- 📚 CK Westbrook’s work as a science fiction author and how she weaves veganism and environmental themes into The Impact Series.
- 🏛️ Tips for enjoying DC’s free museums, cultural events, and live performances at spots like the Kennedy Center.
- 📅 How politics and the local calendar (like cherry blossom season or congressional recess) shape the city’s vibe for visitors.
- 🍔 Insider advice on where locals actually eat, from Elizabeth’s and Oyster Oyster to PLNT Burger, Shouk, and DC Vegan.
Other World Vegan Travel Content Connected With This Episode
- Vegan Budget Travel with Calen Otto | 200th Episode
- S2 Ep 6 | Why & How I Quit My Job to Eat at Every Vegan Restaurant in the United States | Kristin Lajeunesse
- Vegan Miami Uncovered | Culture, Cuisine & Hidden Gems
- Discover Delaware with Salisbury House B&B | Michele
- From Flight Attendants to Full-Time Travelers
- Discover the Vegan Oasis: Black Sheep Inn & Spa
