Houston’s Vegan and Vegetarian Scene
Houston, a city known for its diverse food scene, still has some work to do when it comes to catering to its plant-based residents. According to a recent study by WalletHub, Houston ranked 23rd among the top 100 U.S. cities for vegans and vegetarians in 2025.
Ranking and Comparison
The study compared cities based on factors such as grocery affordability, vegetarian restaurant diversity, accessibility, and quality, as well as other lifestyle considerations. Houston came in second in the state of Texas, behind Austin, which ranked third nationwide. Portland, Oregon, and Los Angeles, California, took the top two spots. Houston’s ranking has fluctuated over the years, moving from 24th in 2023 to 18th in 2024, and now 23rd in 2025.
Breakdown of Houston’s Ranking
In terms of specific categories, Houston ranked:
- 21st in affordability
- 39th in diversity, accessibility, and quality
- 32nd in vegetarian lifestyle
Despite these rankings, Houston has the 5th highest number of vegetable nurseries in the nation, indicating a growing interest in plant-based living.
Growing Options for Vegans and Vegetarians
Houston has seen an increase in vegan and vegetarian restaurants in recent years. New additions to the scene include Flower Child and Succulent Fine Dining, which offer vegetarian-friendly options. The city’s Indian restaurants, such as Kiran’s and Himalaya, have long been accommodating to vegetarians. Other recommended spots include Casaema, Traveler’s Cart, and Maximo, which offer a range of vegan and vegetarian menu items.
Embracing Plant-Based Options
The appeal of plant-based options extends beyond vegans and vegetarians, as eco-conscious individuals look to reduce food waste and save money by cutting down on meat. With meat prices rising faster than vegetable prices, it’s likely that more people will explore a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle in the near future, according to WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo.
Texas Cities Ranked
Other Texas cities that made the top 50 include San Antonio, Irving, Lubbock, El Paso, Dallas, and Corpus Christi. Austin’s strong ranking is a testament to the city’s thriving food scene and commitment to plant-based options.
Top 10 Cities for Vegans and Vegetarians
The top 10 cities for vegans and vegetarians in 2025 are:
- Portland, Oregon
- Los Angeles, California
- Austin, Texas
- San Francisco, California
- Oakland, California
- Phoenix, Arizona
- Miami, Florida
- Seattle, Washington
- Orlando, Florida
- Madison, Wisconsin
Conclusion
While Houston still has some work to do to become a top destination for vegans and vegetarians, the city is making progress. With a growing number of plant-based restaurants and a strong ranking in terms of affordability, Houston is becoming a more appealing option for those who follow a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle. As the demand for plant-based options continues to grow, it’s likely that Houston will continue to evolve and improve its ranking in the years to come.
