Longfellow

Himalayan Restaurant on Lake Street delves into Indian, Nepalese, and Tibetan cuisine with extensive vegetarian offerings. Start with kothe—steamed momos that are pan-fried and served with savory tomato-cilantro chutney. The chana masala and creamy Kathmandu curry are standouts, best paired with aloo paratha or extra-buttery naan. Save room for desserts like kheer (rice pudding) and mango pudding. The warm, family-run atmosphere and generous portions keep the neighborhood coming back.

Minnesota's only Black-owned cold-pressed juice bar has expanded into a full cafe experience on Minnehaha Avenue. Owner Jasmine creates vibrant, nutrient-packed juices, smoothies, and acai bowls that are as beautiful as they are delicious. The menu is 100% meatless and largely vegan, with gluten-free options throughout. Smoothie bowls are works of art topped with fresh fruit, granola, and edible flowers. The expanded space serves light bites and has become a neighborhood gathering spot for health-conscious eaters.

After losing their original location in 2020, the beloved Gandhi Mahal family has returned with a quick-service concept. The extensive vegetarian menu features rich curries, biryanis, and thalis. Chana masala, palak paneer (or tofu), and vegetable korma are all excellent. The samosa chaat makes a perfect starter. Family-owned with genuine hospitality. The Longfellow community rallied around them, and the new format delivers the same beloved flavors in a faster package. A heartwarming comeback story.

Minneapolis's premier 100% vegan bakery, Vegan East has been turning out beautiful custom cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and pastries since owner Shelia Nelson decided to turn her hobby into a full-time business. Everything is made from scratch daily, with impressive attention to detail in both flavor and decoration. Their cinnamon rolls are legendary among locals—fluffy, perfectly spiced, and generously frosted. The custom cake designs are show-stoppers, proving that vegan baking doesn't mean sacrificing aesthetics. Many items are also gluten-free, making this a safe haven for people with multiple dietary restrictions. The cozy shop has limited hours (Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-3pm), so plan accordingly. Perfect for special occasion cakes, weekend treat runs, or picking up a box of cupcakes to bring to a party and quietly blow everyone's mind.

Owner Molly Miller built a following at farmers markets and coffee shops before opening this dedicated gluten-free bakery in South Minneapolis. While not 100% vegan, Sift offers extensive vegan options clearly labeled throughout the case. The impressive part? The variety. Most gluten-free bakeries specialize in one or two things, but Sift tackles everything—cinnamon rolls, donuts, cookies, cakes, cupcakes, brownies. The cinnamon rolls are a standout, massive and perfectly gooey. The double chocolate donuts sell out fast for good reason. Everything is made in-house in a dedicated gluten-free facility, making it safe for celiacs. For vegans who are also gluten-free (a notoriously difficult combination), Sift is a revelation. Proof that dietary restrictions don't have to mean settling for less.