Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Steamboat Springs, Colorado, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a serene mountain escape. Known for its world-class skiing, hot springs, and scenic beauty, Steamboat Springs also boasts a diverse culinary scene that caters to all tastes, including vegan and vegetarian options. Whether you are a local or a visitor, this guide will help you navigate the best plant-based dining experiences in this charming mountain town.
This guide will be your compass on your green culinary adventure! In this blog, we've curated a list of the top spots in Steamboat Springs, Colorado for vegetarian and vegan diets.
Before we start, a little about us…
At Retreatia, we have many years of local expertise in luxury rental properties, ski-in/ski-out options, and downtown lodging, and many of our rentals are pet-friendly.
We proudly consider ourselves local experts. In our blog, we write about everything from hidden gems to indoor attractions, like the wonderful coffee shops in town. We're all about making your stay in Steamboat Springs a memorable one — no matter which season you choose.
Now, let's dive into those awesome vegan and vegetarian restaurants…
TLDR: A Sneak Peek at What's Ahead for You
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Seedz Cafe: Cozy, organic, smoothies, juices, acai bowls, salads, veggie wraps
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Saffron Indian Restaurant: Family-run, Indian cuisine, vegan, vegetarian, Aloo Gobi, Veg Coconut Curry
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Mai Thai: Thai cuisine, street food, vegan options, Pad Thai, Red Curry
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Yampa Valley Kitchen: Elegant, locally sourced, diverse menu, Vegan Burger, tropical plants
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Winona's Restaurant and Bakery: Breakfast, lunch, bakery, vegan options, Tofu Scramble, homey vibe
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Salt & Lime: Mexican cuisine, vegan options, Cauliflower Tacos, Rice Bowl, rooftop seating
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Noodles & More Saigon Cafe: Vietnamese cuisine, vegan options, Spring Rolls, Pho, cozy interior
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Cafe Diva: Upscale, contemporary American, seasonal menu, vegan options, elegant ambiance
1. Seedz Cafe
Seedz Cafe, located at 1117 Lincoln Ave, is a cornerstone for vegans and vegetarians in Steamboat Springs. This cozy cafe prides itself on fresh, organic ingredients and globally-inspired dishes. You’ll find an array of plant-based options such as smoothies, juices, acai bowls, and avocado toast. Their salads and Buddha bowls are vibrant and nutrient-dense, while the veggie wraps offer a delicious and healthy meal on the go.
Popular menu items include the Veggie Philly, Organic Veggie Bowl, and Hot Tokyo Maki Bowl. Seedz Cafe’s casual and welcoming atmosphere, adorned with natural wood accents and colorful artwork, makes it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a wholesome meal. The emphasis on locally-sourced ingredients and seasonal menu changes ensures a fresh and satisfying dining experience.
2. Saffron Indian Restaurant
Saffron Indian Restaurant at 730 Lincoln Ave is a delightful addition to Steamboat Springs, offering an extensive menu of vegan and vegetarian Indian cuisine. This family-run eatery is praised for its flavorful dishes and warm, welcoming atmosphere. You’ll find vegan delights such as Aloo Gobi, Vegan Vegetable Curry, and Veg Coconut Curry. Other favorites include Dal Makhana, Veggie Masala, and Malai Kofta, catering to those seeking rich, spicy flavors.
The restaurant also features a dedicated vegan menu section, making it easy to find plant-based options. Known for its fast and friendly service, Saffron is a great choice for a casual yet satisfying dining experience. The owners’ dedication to quality and their appreciation for customers ensure you’ll leave with a smile.
3. Mai Thai
Mai Thai, located at 435 Lincoln Ave, brings the vibrant flavors of Thailand to Steamboat Springs. This restaurant is known for its traditional Thai cuisine and street food, served with a smile. Vegans and vegetarians will appreciate the Veggie Pad Thai, Red Curry, and Drunken Noodles. Other must-tries include the Crispy Tofu, Spring Rolls, and Avocado Curry.
Mai Thai's lively atmosphere is enhanced by its exhibition kitchen, where you can watch your meal being prepared. The fast service and friendly staff make it a popular spot for both locals and visitors. With its diverse menu and colorful, casual setting, Mai Thai offers a delightful dining experience that is both authentic and accommodating to plant-based diets.
4. Yampa Valley Kitchen
Yampa Valley Kitchen, or YVK, at 910 Yampa St, is an elegant dining spot in downtown Steamboat Springs. Known for its commitment to using locally sourced produce and meats from Colorado ranches, YVK offers a diverse menu with plenty of vegan and vegetarian options. Highlights include the Vegan Veggie Burger, Thai Wat Arun Salad, and Avocado Toast. The restaurant’s seasonal soup of the day often has vegan options.
The ambiance at YVK is a standout feature, with tall white walls, tropical plants, and fresh flowers creating a sophisticated yet comfortable dining environment. This attention to detail extends to the menu, where dishes can be customized to accommodate various dietary needs. A meal here is not just food; it's an experience infused with style and excellent service.
5. Winona's Restaurant and Bakery
Winona's Restaurant and Bakery, located at 617 Lincoln Ave, is a beloved local spot famous for its breakfast, lunch, and bakery items. This cozy eatery offers several vegan options, ensuring that plant-based diners have a variety of choices. The Tofu Scramble and Tofu Sandwich are popular vegan dishes, while the Greek Omelette and Veggie Lovers Omelette cater to vegetarians. Don’t miss the vegan bakery items, which add a sweet touch to your meal.
Winona's has a homey, welcoming vibe that makes diners feel right at home. The enticing aromas from the in-house bakery and views of Lincoln Avenue contribute to the restaurant's comforting ambiance. Known for their homemade cinnamon rolls and willingness to cater to various dietary needs, Winona’s is a versatile choice for a delightful dining experience in Steamboat Springs.
6. Salt & Lime
Salt & Lime, situated at 628 Lincoln Ave, offers a vibrant twist on classic Mexican cuisine with vegan and vegetarian options. This lively restaurant is known for its casual dining atmosphere and beautiful rooftop seating. Vegans can enjoy dishes like Cauliflower Tacos, Cashew Cauliflower, and the customizable Rice Bowl. The Veggie Tacos and Cauliflower Hash are also popular choices.
Salt & Lime’s full bar, featuring a variety of margaritas and other drinks, adds to the festive atmosphere. The colorful decor, including a mural of Frida Kahlo, creates a lively and inviting space. While the menu has some great plant-based options, diners might need to ask for modifications to suit their dietary preferences fully.
7. Noodles & More Saigon Cafe
Noodles & More Saigon Cafe, located at 635 Lincoln Ave, offers a taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine in Steamboat Springs. This family-run restaurant has an eclectic menu with plenty of vegan and vegetarian options. Spring Rolls, Vegetarian Pho, and Tofu and Vegetables are among the favorites. The Vegetarian Fried Rice and Tom Yum Soup with Tofu are also excellent choices.
The cozy, inviting interior of Noodles & More Saigon Cafe resembles a Japanese eatery, enhancing the dining experience. Known for its quick service and fresh ingredients, this restaurant is a great choice for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Whether you’re in the mood for sushi, sashimi, or a hearty bowl of pho, this cafe caters to all tastes.
8. Cafe Diva
Cafe Diva, located at 1855 Ski Time Square Dr, offers an upscale dining experience with a focus on contemporary American fare. This elegant restaurant is known for its seasonal menu, which features sustainably sourced ingredients. Vegans and vegetarians can enjoy dishes like Yellow Beet Hummus Arepa Tostada and Zaatar Pea & Feta Fritters. The Three Pea Salad is another standout dish.
Executive Chef Kate Van Rensselaer Rench's dedication to quality and creativity shines through in every dish. The restaurant’s sophisticated mountain contemporary ambiance and top-notch service make it a top choice for those seeking a high-end dining experience. Reservations are recommended to secure a spot at this popular destination.
Here are some helpful tips for finding vegan and vegetarian restaurants while on the road:
- Use mobile apps: Download apps like HappyCow, Yelp, or Google Maps, which allow you to search for vegan and vegetarian restaurants in your current location or along your route.
- Plan ahead: Before your trip, research vegan-friendly restaurants in the areas you'll be visiting and save them to your maps app for easy access later.
- Check social media: Follow vegan travel accounts on platforms like Instagram or Facebook for recommendations and up-to-date information on plant-based eateries.
- Look for ethnic cuisines: Indian, Middle Eastern, and Asian restaurants often have numerous vegetarian and vegan options.
- Ask locals: Don't hesitate to ask hotel staff, locals, or fellow travelers for recommendations on vegan-friendly spots in the area.
- Be flexible: In areas with limited options, look for restaurants that are willing to modify dishes to accommodate your dietary needs.
By combining these strategies, you'll be better equipped to find satisfying vegan and vegetarian meals while traveling.
How Can You Make Your Trip to Steamboat Springs Even Better?
While in town, why not stay in style with the great backdrop of the Rocky Mountains in one of the most iconic rental properties and complexes Steamboat Springs offers?
Retreatia offers luxury properties, ski-in/ski-out options, and downtown lodgings, many of which are pet-friendly. Staying in one of our properties, we guarantee you'll have nothing less than a 5-star experience, something that will definitely enhance your Steamboat Springs vacation.