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Being dairy-free, whether by choice for health benefits or required due to lactose intolerance or allergies, can be hard when traveling in a new city. Luckily, more and more cities around the US and in other countries are becoming dairy-free-friendly, gluten-free, and vegan-friendly. If you’re trying to plan a trip but are worried about food, check out our guide to the best cities for dairy-free dining.
1. Portland, Oregon
Arguably one of the most eco-friendly cities in the United States, it should come as no surprise that Portland, Oregon — the hipster capital of the Pacific Northwest and possibly the whole USA — tops our list as the best city for dairy-free dining. If you’re looking for sweets, the city’s popular Blossoming Lotus serves up the best dairy-free soft serve in the city. The vegan ice cream shop and restaurant serves affordable scoops of flavors like orange creamsicle, vanilla, or flavor of the day. The restaurant also serves a large menu of vegan and vegetarian food, as well as a full drink selection. For lighter meals, check out Vita Cafe, known for delicacies like gluten-free and dairy-free mac and cheese.
2. York, England
England’s northern city of York, filled with old castles and cobblestone streets, is also a top destination for those looking for dairy-free treats. The most popular spot in the city is Source, which has gluten-free and dairy-free. With options including vegan burgers, tater tots, smoothies, shakes, salads, and more, you’ll be overwhelmed with the amount of dairy-free choices. Check out Filmore and Union too, for plant-based, nutritious, and dairy-free options. Popular dishes include fish cakes, muffins, hummus, and of course, coffee. The city overall embraces the healthy dairy-free options, so you won’t be hard pressed to find a restaurant that caters to your needs.
3. Los Angeles, California
The city of stars and emerging food trends is perfect for your dairy-free diet. The city is full of great eateries that cater to your diet. Try Wild Living Foods for plant-based gluten-free, dairy-free dishes to make you and your stomach happy. The restaurant’s popular dishes are earth pasta, kale salad, and coconut milk ice cream. Honey Hi is another healthy food spot, with free-range meat and local eggs. Elsewhere, Amara Kitchen is great for paleo bowls, homemade nut milk, and more. If it’s ice cream you’re after, head to Scoops, the popular ice cream shop serving up dairy-free cups and cones. Not all their flavors are vegan and dairy-free, but they do have a wide variety that are.
4. Denver, Colorado
The outdoor adventure capital of the USA is home to dozens of dairy-free and healthy-eating friendly restaurants. Root Down is a popular spot in the city, offering full vegetarian menus and vegan options, locally sourced food, along with a great atmosphere and accommodating staff. The True Food Kitchen is another ideal option in the city, with fresh, healthy food leaving you feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the rest of the day. Favorite vegan and dairy-free dishes include the quinoa teriyaki bowl and the squash pizza. Looking for something for breakfast and lunch? Just BE Kitchen offers great customer service, dairy-free quesadillas, and food that can accommodate any dietary needs and restrictions.
5. Berlin, Germany
Berlin is one of the best cities in all of Europe for alternative dining options. So much so that there are over 450 restaurants catering to vegan and dairy-free food. Check out a meal at Kopps, the city’s best restaurant for healthy, dairy-free eating. Or, stroll along Schivelbeiner Strasse, an entire street lined with animal-product-free restaurants and eateries and the massive Veganz vegan grocery store.