Even though the Alabama Gulf Coast is known for its fresh seafood, you'll discover plenty of fabulous meatless options in the area. From filling breakfasts and burgers to savory sandwiches and impressive salads, check out these vegetarian-friendly options in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
1. Lulu’s
While LuLu's in Gulf Shores is known for its fun atmosphere and live music, it's also an excellent spot for those with dietary restrictions. The restaurant doesn't have a specific vegetarian or vegan menu, but you can ask for the egg-free or seafood/shellfish-free menu. Vegetarian offerings on the menu include Lower Alabama caviar, various salads, veggie tacos, and a fabulous selection of appetizers like fried green tomatoes, fried okra, and cheese quesadillas.
2. Brick & Spoon
When it comes to breakfast, Brick & Spoon is a fantastic option for vegetarians and meat eaters alike. This popular brunch spot serves a variety of sweet and savory eats. Our favorite vegetarian options include the garden omelet, stuffed French toast sliders, baked brie bruschetta, and farmer's market eggs Benedict. Don't forget to add an order of beignets and a bloody mary!
3. Cactus Cantina
If you’re craving cuisine from south of the border, visit Cactus Cantina. Here, you'll find fresh guacamole and salads, as well as veggie burritos, fajitas, quesadillas, and tacos. To make finding meat-free meals easier, Cactus Cantina has a vegetarian section on the menu. This restaurant has locations in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, so you can easily dine at this Mexican joint no matter where you're staying.
4. Bleu's Burger
Don't worry! This Gulf Shores restaurant serves much more than just juicy burgers. Bleus Burger offers something for everyone. You'll find cauliflower wings, fried pickles, beer cheese pretzels, and fried green tomatoes on the appetizer menu. For your main, we suggest the hobo burger, which includes house-made falafel, pepper jack cheese, avocado hummus, tomato, lettuce, and cilantro jalapeño lime aioli.
5. Picnic Beach
Picnic Beach in Gulf Shores offers delicious eats and great views. For those looking for meatless dishes, the restaurant provides the vegan bowl, which includes jasmine rice and tofu and is packed with fresh vegetables, and the black bean burger with cheddar cheese, red onion, tomato, lettuce, and Wickles pickles. If you're not that hungry, order one of the many salads the restaurant offers and add tofu for an additional $5.
6. The Beli
Across the street from the beach in Gulf Shores sits The Beli. Serving specialty sandwiches, this cute local spot offers a sandwich called "Vegetarians Be Like" just for non-meat eaters. It includes roasted bell peppers, onion, spinach, tomato, feta, and lemon dressing on toasted multigrain bread. It's the perfect meal to enjoy after a day by the water.
7. OSO
OSO at Bear Point is the perfect spot for those wanting a little bit of everything. OSO offers fried sweet pickles, nachos, loaded tater tots, fried green tomatoes, chips and salsa, and several fresh salads. However, two of our favorites are the cheese quesadillas with pico de Gallo and avocado sauce and the OSO stuffed potato with shredded cheese, queso, and green onions. Be sure to save room for dessert and try the bushwacker cheesecake or beignet fries.
8. Woodside
Nestled inside Gulf State Park is Woodside Restaurant. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Woodside offers something for vegetarians at every meal. Have the egg white veggie omelet or avocado toast in the morning for breakfast. Then, return later for lunch and order mac and cheese or Brussels sprouts for your starter and the mushroom burger or veggie euro as your main dish. Woodside also offers several fresh salads, such as the Rattlesnake Ridge salad, which includes arugula, quinoa, corn, cilantro, black beans, cotija, avocado, and chili lime vinaigrette.
9. High Tide Daiquiris & Mimosas
Searching for restaurants with vegetarian options and delicious drinks? Look no further. High Tide Daiquiris & Mimosas has just what you need. In the morning, you can grab a variety of bagels and pastries, toast, and breakfast boards. For lunch, High Tide offers a variety of veggie-friendly meals like homemade hummus and dips, balsamic glazed bruschetta, a grilled mozzarella sandwich, and a garlic bread grilled cheese.
10. Tuscany Pizza and Grill
If you're in the mood for Italian, dine at Tuscany Pizza and Grill. From soups and salads to pizzas and pasta, Tuscany offers a plethora of meatless options. Our favorites include the Margherita pizza, fried zucchini, gnocchi al pesto, and eggplant parmesan. Add a glass of wine to your order, and you have the ideal vegetarian Italian meal.
11. Original Oyster House
Fresh oysters aren't the only things you'll find at Original Oyster House. Chow down on endless fried goodness like hushpuppies, fried green tomatoes, fried pickles, and fried mozzarella bites for your appetizer. Next, savor the vegetarian burger served with thick-cut fries and coleslaw. If you're looking for something lighter, Original Oyster House has a fabulous salad bar with lots of veggies and toppings.
