Last Update in August 2026! We’ve created this ever-growing guide to restaurants, bakeries, cafes, ice cream shops, and stores in Northern California that are friendly to dairy-free diners. It’s a collection based on research and reader recommendations (send yours!) that’s divided into restaurants & shops by city (first) and major chains found throughout the state (second). And we’ve started a section for specialty dairy-free foods produced in this state.
This post is updated continuously! We update whenever we’re alerted to a new recommendation, change, or closure. But the listings are for informational purposes only and are merely ideas for consideration. Restaurant menus, staff, and policies do change, and potential allergen cross-contamination is a risk in any commercial kitchen. Only you can decide what is safe for your needs.
Photo from Stand-Up Burgers in Berkeley, California
Dairy-Free Northern California: Recommended Restaurants & Shops
We’ve listed these recommendations alphabetically by city and then by the restaurant or shop name. For large chains with locations throughout the state, see the Major Restaurant & Grocery Chains section below. We have dedicated posts with dairy-free details for many of the big guys.
⭐️ = Restaurant is either dairy-free, has a dairy-free menu, has dairy-free labels on their menu(s), or lists top allergens with menu items. (At the time of our last review.)
Local Northern California Restaurants Recommended for Dairy-Free Eats
Northern California has been referred to as the breadbasket of the world. This is where vegetables take center stage on menus, avocado is served on almost everything, and garlic isn’t just a flavoring, it’s a main ingredient. You’ll want to enjoy their boisterous salads, since every ingredient was probably grown or made in the region. And take advantage of the heavy Asian influence in this region. Authentic Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, Thai, and other Eastern influences make it easy to find flavorful dairy-free cuisine.
Like everywhere in the U.S., the locals like their cheese. But due to the widespread popularity of veganism in the Bay Area, you won’t have much trouble asking for dairy-free options at restaurants. But the restaurants listed below go above and beyond with dairy-free, and often vegan and gluten-free, choices. We’ve listed these recommendations alphabetically by city, and then by the restaurant or shop name.
⭐️ = Restaurant is either dairy-free, has a dairy-free menu, has dairy-free labels on their menu(s), or lists top allergens with menu items. (At the time of our last review.)
Alameda
Alamo
Extreme Pizza – They have a whole menu of vegan signature pizzas, and of course, you can build your own dairy-free pizza. You can also custom order one of their many salads.
Albany
Kitava ⭐️ – Their menus are “100% free of gluten, dairy, soy, peanuts, refined sugar & seed oils.” Their menu focuses on bowls, with build-your-own options, but they also serve small plates, snacks, and desserts. They’re open for lunch and dinner.
Mr. Dewie’s Cashew Creamery ⭐️ – This dairy-free, gluten-free, soy-free ice cream shop offers a range of cashew-based flavors and several vegan treats (like cookies, ice cream sandwiches, and sweet sauces by the jar).
Antioch
Go Vegan ⭐️ – Thank you to Praveen for recommending this all-vegan Asian restaurant. They offer a big menu of classic dishes and also offer smoothies and desserts.
Aptos
Bruster’s Real Ice Cream – This old-fashioned ice creamery chain churns several dairy-free oat milk ice cream flavors, like vegan vanilla, cookies and cream, white raspberry truffle, and more. They also offer sorbets.
Cat & Cloud – This coffee shop offers treats like vegan coffee cake plus savory breakfast burritos and other light bites. They offer a few types of milk alternatives.
Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.
Soul Salad – They offer a great selection of dairy-free, natural, house-made salad dressings and have a broad selection of salad toppings. All of their produce is organic.
The True Olive Connection – Treat yourself to gourmet oils and vinegar at this local shop. They even have dairy-free “butter infused” olive oil.
Auburn
Nectar Cafe – Their vegetarian menu is filled with dairy-free and vegan options, including starters, wraps, bowls, salads, sandwiches, burgers, and Mexican fare. They also have vegan smoothies and shakes, gelato bars, and raw dessert cups.
The Healthy Habit – Several of their menu items can be ordered dairy free. They serve a range of smoothies, superfood bowls, breakfasts, salads, wraps, and sandwiches. They use almond or coconut milk for many of their dishes, and have coconut whip for a sweet topping.
Berkeley
Casa de Chocolates – This chocolate shop doesn’t leave anyone out. Their offerings include vegan bon bons, chocolate bars, sugar-free chocolate bars, and hot chocolate.
Cha-Ya ⭐️ – Their menu is completely vegan, and focuses on Asian food, with sushi, vegetable, rice, noodle dishes, and dessert.
CREAM Nation ⭐️ – Although this is a traditional ice cream sandwich shop, they do offer some vegan goodies. On the menu, you should see at least a couple dairy-free, plant-based ice cream flavors. And to make your dairy-free ice cream sandwich experience complete, they have a nice little selection of vegan cookies. Once your dairy-free dessert is assembled, it can be rolled in or garnished with select dairy-free toppings. Alternatively, you can order scoops, sundaes, shakes, and coffee drinks at this cool spot.
Earthbar – This wellness shop also contains a dairy-free juice and smoothie bar, where you can also order vegan waffles and toasts (with various toppings – including almondmilk ricotta), superfood bowls, and coffee drinks.
From Love at First Bite Bakery – They offer vegan chocolate cake / cupcakes, can make a vanilla vegan and gluten free, but also offer other dairy-free flavors on custom order.
Gather – This locavore restaurant serves a mix of healthy fresh eats and comfort cuisine in a warm atmosphere. They clearly label vegan and gluten-free options, and have a lot to choose from. They offer vegan pizzas, share plates, portobello burgers, cookies, and more. You can see some photos of their vegan dishes on Bittersweet. Even more dishes can be made dairy-free on request.
Noor Indian Fusion ⭐️ – They offer vegan curries on their menu, but also note which items contain dairy, and which can be ordered dairy free.
Palm Acai Cafe – This is a great spot for acai bowls, smoothie bowls, and smoothies. At last check, their plant-based menu was dairy-free, but they do say they handle dairy (and other allergens) in their kitchen.
Rush Bowls – This smoothie and smoothie bowl chain isn’t dairy-free, but they are happy to accommodate. They offer oat, almond, coconut, and soymilk options. Some menu items call for froyo, but you can sub banana for no charge, or acai for an additional charge. At last check, most of their toppers and all of their boosts (except for whey – they do have soy protein available) were made without dairy.
Sliver Pizzeria – Their sourdough crust is vegan, and they offer vegan cheese and a vegan gluten-free crust. Their menu is even labelled to show vegan sauces and sides.
Tender Greens – Salads, bowls, sandwiches, and build-your-own plates are the specialty at this quintessentially California chain. Their menu boasts fresh and healthful cuisine with ample dairy-free, gluten-free, vegan, and other special diet options.
The Butcher’s Son ⭐️ – This was the second all-vegan “butcher” shop to pop up in North America. It’s situated in a popular vegan-friendly area, but only open midday (see The King’s Feet below for dinner). They offer house-made plant-based meats, dairy-free cheeses, pre-made meals, and so much more. Their menu has an impressive list of sandwiches, from Chicken Parm to Steak Banh Mi.
The Xocolate Bar – They make their own chocolates, and carry fine chocolate brands from around the world. They have many vegan products, including bon bons, chocolate bar flights, cacao fruit jam, hot chocolate, filled bars, and more.
Brentwood
Brisbane
Boba Guys – This boba tea chain offers several dairy-free drinks right on their menu, like Korean Banana Milk and Horchata. They also offer dairy-free milk alternatives to make their unique latte boba drinks dairy-free, like the Strawberry Matcha, Ube, and Hojicha Lattes. In fact, most of their drink menu is easily dairy-free.
Burlingame
Blue Line Pizza – They are reportedly well-versed at handling allergy orders, and they offer a vegan pizza crust and Daiya dairy-free cheese, so most pizzas can be ordered without dairy.
Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.
Salt & Straw – See our Salt & Straw Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Campbell
Blue Line Pizza – They are reportedly well-versed at handling allergy orders, and they offer a vegan pizza crust and Daiya dairy-free cheese, so most pizzas can be ordered without dairy.
Burger Lounge – This SoCal chain serves grass-fed burgers alongside a whole menu of vegan burgers. They offer vegan buns, dairy-free cheese, and bunless paleo and keto options. Select locations (check in advance) offer dairy-free milkshakes and root beer floats made with cashew milk ice cream.
Capitola
Melinda’s Gluten Free Bakery – They offer everything from pastries to fresh baked breads, with plenty of dairy-free options, and some vegan, too.
Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.
Carmel
Alvarado Street Brewery – They offer (canned) vegan hard smoothies, and offer a vegan burger on the menu, but many more dishes can be ordered dairy free. They are reportedly quite accommodating to dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan guests.
Castroville
Fredo’s Vegan Tacos ⭐️ – This all vegan taco truck is also nut-free and gluten-free. They sell by the taco and also have tamales available to order.
Chico
Insomnia Cookies – This sweet chain offers a few flavors of vegan cookies year round, like Birthday Cake and Double Chocolate Chunk. But they also bake up seasonal vegan flavors throughout the year.
Savor Ice Cream ⭐️ – This allergy-friendly ice cream shop keeps their dairy-free and vegan flavors separate from the dairy flavors and uses separate equipment / scoops to help prevent cross contamination. They rotate the flavors, but usually have several creamy varieties, like vegan rocky road, cold brew, agave vanilla, and more. This is also a gluten-free and peanut-free shop.
Citrus Heights
Teriyaki Madness ⭐️ – This is a great casual spot for a range of teriyaki-style bowls and Asian appetizers. They offer an easy-to-read allergen chart. At last check, everything was dairy-free on the savory menu, except for the crab rangoon.
Clovis
Panaderia Cafe Oaxaca – This is a great spot to satisfy your sweet tooth. They offer Oatly soft serve ice cream plus vegan donuts, cinnamon rolls, tiramisu, bolillos, cakes, and much more.
Pelican’s SnoBalls – This sweet chain makes New Orleans style shaved ice. And according to the company, their flavor syrups are all made without top allergens. Just skip the cream snowcap or ask if they have dairy-free coconut cream available.
Straw Hat Pizza – This pizzeria offers a vegan-gluten-free crust, a few vegan sauces, and a plethora of toppings. Participating stores have Daiya dairy-free cheese available and a vegan pizza on the menu. According to their allergen information, they also offer dairy-free breaded shrimp, garlic fries, wings (bone in and boneless), fries, onion rings, and other bites. Check in store or online for their current allergen info.
Concord
Lazy Dog – This chain restaurant has a full allergen chart for their modern bar and grill style menu. It also includes a vegan column. They have dairy-free options throughout their menu, including appetizers, salads, Asian-style bowls, seafood, ribs, and plenty of sides. At last check, they also had a dairy-free pie for dessert.
MOD Pizza – See our MOD Pizza Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Next Level Burger ⭐️ – This fledgling chain touts itself as America’s first fully vegan burger joint. It’s a counter-serve spot with an array of plant-based burgers, “chicken” sandwiches, fries, and tots. They also blend dairy-free shakes and have house-made soft serve. This location is inside Whole Foods.
Cotati
Lady Blume Microbakery + Coffee ⭐️ – This little shop is both dairy-free and gluten-free. They offer decadent pastries, from chocolate pound cake to croissants and offer a botanically-inspired menu of coffee drinks, teas, and elixirs.
Cupertino
CREAM Nation ⭐️ – Although this is a traditional ice cream sandwich shop, they do offer some vegan goodies. On the menu, you should see at least a couple dairy-free, plant-based ice cream flavors. And to make your dairy-free ice cream sandwich experience complete, they have a nice little selection of vegan cookies. Once your dairy-free dessert is assembled, it can be rolled in or garnished with select dairy-free toppings. Alternatively, you can order scoops, sundaes, shakes, and coffee drinks at this cool spot.
Lazy Dog – This chain restaurant has a full allergen chart for their modern bar and grill style menu. It also includes a vegan column. They have dairy-free options throughout their menu, including appetizers, salads, Asian-style bowls, seafood, ribs, and plenty of sides. At last check, they also had a dairy-free pie for dessert.
Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.
The Counter – They have a few outposts in other U.S. states, but The Counter is primarily a California burger chain with an expansive vegan menu. They even offer vegan cheese. Consequently, their burgers and many other savory items can be made dairy-free on request.
Daly City
Blue Line Pizza – They are reportedly well-versed at handling allergy orders, and they offer a vegan pizza crust and Daiya dairy-free cheese, so most pizzas can be ordered without dairy.
Danville
Blossom & Root ⭐️ – Thanks to Lori for letting us know about this vegan restaurant. “I love that I can eat any of the dessert options!” In addition to dessert, they have full brunch, lunch, and dinner menus.
Blue Line Pizza – They are reportedly well-versed at handling allergy orders, and they offer a vegan pizza crust and Daiya dairy-free cheese, so most pizzas can be ordered without dairy.
Life is Sweet Bakery & Cafe – This is a dedicated gluten-free bakery that offers vegan cupcakes and dairy-free macaroons. They can also take custom orders.
Toastique – They offer dairy-free smoothies, smoothie bowls, collagen lattes, toasts, grab-and-go eats, and even some housemade treats.
Yogurt Shack – They typically have dairy-free Dole Whip soft serve available and a good selection of toppings. They sometimes have an additional fruity soft serve flavor, like POG.
Davis
Insomnia Cookies – This sweet chain offers a few flavors of vegan cookies year round, like Birthday Cake and Double Chocolate Chunk. But they also bake up seasonal vegan flavors throughout the year.
Dublin
Lazy Dog – This chain restaurant has a full allergen chart for their modern bar and grill style menu. It also includes a vegan column. They have dairy-free options throughout their menu, including appetizers, salads, Asian-style bowls, seafood, ribs, and plenty of sides. At last check, they also had a dairy-free pie for dessert.
Urban Plates ⭐️ – This California chain proudly puts their diet and allergen information front and center. Their menu is boldly labeled with dairy-free and gluten-free items, they have a full allergen chart, and a vegan menu. They serve a healthy array of dairy-free plates, salads, bowls, and sandwiches.
El Dorado Hills
OBO’ Italian Table & Bar ⭐️ – They clearly label dairy-free menu items and have a salmon entree (at last check) with hot side options, various deli salads, and even dessert.
Wow Wow Lemonade – Enjoy fresh-pressed lemonades (with sugar-free options), dairy-free acai bowls, superfood smoothies, several toasts, and grain bowls at this Hawaiian-inspired restaurant chain. Most of their menu is dairy-free and they have many vegan options.
Elk Grove
Loving Hut ⭐️ – This is possibly the largest vegan franchise in the world. Their dairy-free, egg-free, and meat-free menu offers an extensive list of Asian and American inspired dishes, served in a casual counter serve style (sometimes in food courts). They also offer desserts and labeled gluten-free options.
RAW Superfoods Café ⭐️ – This vegan cafe serves smoothies, wellness bowls, burgers, bagels, sandwiches, adaptogenic lattes, and they have a full coffee bar.
El Sobrante
Extreme Pizza – They have a whole menu of vegan signature pizzas, and of course, you can build your own dairy-free pizza. You can also custom order one of their many salads.
Emeryville
Konarq Cuisine of India ⭐️ – They’re friendly to dairy-free guests, and label which items contain dairy on their menu. They also offer options for vegan and gluten-free customers.
Lanesplitter Pizza & Pub – They have two vegan pizzas and a vegan calzone on their menu. Instead of mozza, they use a “notta ricotta” which is soy-based. You can order most of their pizzas without dairy.
Lotus & Lime ⭐️ – They offer a fresh take on Asian food with a selection of purple rice bowls and salad bowls. Their entire menu is “free of gluten, dairy, peanuts, eggs, fish, shellfish, and mustard.” Cashews (as a topping) were the only tree nut at last check. They do have a detailed allergen menu.
Mr. Dewie’s Cashew Creamery ⭐️ – This dairy-free, gluten-free, soy-free ice cream shop offers a range of cashew-based flavors and several vegan treats (like cookies, ice cream sandwiches, and sweet sauces by the jar).
Exeter
Straw Hat Pizza – This pizzeria offers a vegan-gluten-free crust, a few vegan sauces, and a plethora of toppings. Participating stores have Daiya dairy-free cheese available and a vegan pizza on the menu. According to their allergen information, they also offer dairy-free breaded shrimp, garlic fries, wings (bone in and boneless), fries, onion rings, and other bites. Check in store or online for their current allergen info.
Fairfield
Johnny Carino’s – This Italian chain offers a good allergen menu, and at last check, they offered some good dairy-free create your own pasta options and some meaty options, like ribs and wings.
Straw Hat Pizza – This pizzeria offers a vegan-gluten-free crust, a few vegan sauces, and a plethora of toppings. Participating stores have Daiya dairy-free cheese available and a vegan pizza on the menu. According to their allergen information, they also offer dairy-free breaded shrimp, garlic fries, wings (bone in and boneless), fries, onion rings, and other bites. Check in store or online for their current allergen info.
Fair Oaks
Sunflower Drive In – Thank you to Raquel for this recommendation! This is a vegetarian spot that focuses on healthy comfort food. Most items are or can be made vegan. This includes grilled cheese, various veggie burgers, burritos, salads, and more.
Folsom
Lazy Dog – This chain restaurant has a full allergen chart for their modern bar and grill style menu. It also includes a vegan column. They have dairy-free options throughout their menu, including appetizers, salads, Asian-style bowls, seafood, ribs, and plenty of sides. At last check, they also had a dairy-free pie for dessert.
Nekter Juice Bar – See our Nekter Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Fremont
Bruster’s Real Ice Cream – This old-fashioned ice creamery chain churns several dairy-free oat milk ice cream flavors, like vegan vanilla, cookies and cream, white raspberry truffle, and more. They also offer sorbets.
RAW Superfoods Café ⭐️ – This vegan cafe serves smoothies, wellness bowls, burgers, bagels, sandwiches, adaptogenic lattes, and they have a full coffee bar.
Sliver Pizzeria – Their sourdough crust is vegan, and they offer vegan cheese and a vegan gluten-free crust. Their menu is even labelled to show vegan sauces and sides.
Straw Hat Pizza – This pizzeria offers a vegan-gluten-free crust, a few vegan sauces, and a plethora of toppings. Participating stores have Daiya dairy-free cheese available and a vegan pizza on the menu. According to their allergen information, they also offer dairy-free breaded shrimp, garlic fries, wings (bone in and boneless), fries, onion rings, and other bites. Check in store or online for their current allergen info.
Fresno
Garlishious Deli – This deli has a classic menu along with various options for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan guests. This includes dairy-free cheese, vegan faux meats, and sandwich spread options.
Hummus Republic – Their build-your-own pita, wrap, or bowl menu is filled with dairy-free options. They even offer vegan proteins, and most components are dairy-free (includes hummuses and dressings). They clearly label for vegan and gluten-free guests.
Lazy Dog – This chain restaurant has a full allergen chart for their modern bar and grill style menu. It also includes a vegan column. They have dairy-free options throughout their menu, including appetizers, salads, Asian-style bowls, seafood, ribs, and plenty of sides. At last check, they also had a dairy-free pie for dessert.
Raw Fresno – This laid back, California casual cafe (and food truck) serves an array of mostly raw, all vegan food. They offer wraps, tacos, and an array of creative eats, but also make cakes! They craft healthier dairy-free cheesecakes, layer cakes, pies, and other treats.
Wonders – This rolled ice cream chain offers a vegan coconut base, and can make many of their flavors dairy free on request. Ask if they have clean equipment for making dairy free orders.
Gilroy
Straw Hat Pizza – This pizzeria offers a vegan-gluten-free crust, a few vegan sauces, and a plethora of toppings. Participating stores have Daiya dairy-free cheese available and a vegan pizza on the menu. According to their allergen information, they also offer dairy-free breaded shrimp, garlic fries, wings (bone in and boneless), fries, onion rings, and other bites. Check in store or online for their current allergen info.
Grass Valley
Pine Street Burgers – You can order their burgers, chicken sandwiches, and vegan burgers dairy-free, because they offer vegan cheese and vegan buns as options. They also blend dairy-free shakes with Coconut Bliss.
Soulful Kitchen ⭐️ – This is an organic, dairy-free, gluten-free fast food spot specializing in fried rockfish and fried oyster mushroom (vegan) dishes – including fish and chips, bowls, etc. They also have weekly specials.
Half Moon Bay
It’s Italia Restaurant – Their menu is labeled with dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan options. The dairy-free selection is primarily small plates, but a few additional items can be ordered without milk.
Nano’s – This “ohana cafe” serves Hawaiian fare with some naturally dairy-free options. They also swirl Dole Whip dairy-free soft serve, have Dole whip floats, and make shave ice.
Seville Tapas ⭐️ – Their menu is clearly labelled with dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan options, and there is a good selection for everyone. This includes tapas, soups, mini sandwiches, and possibly dessert.
Straw Hat Pizza ⭐️ – This pizzeria offers a vegan-gluten-free crust, a few vegan sauces, and a plethora of toppings. Participating stores have Daiya dairy-free cheese available and a vegan pizza on the menu. According to their allergen information, they also offer dairy-free breaded shrimp, garlic fries, wings (bone in and boneless), fries, onion rings, and other bites. Check in store or online for their current allergen info.
Verrazano Pizza – Thank you to Mary for letting us know they “have vegan options and will use dairy free cheese when requested.” At last check, the options included a couple veganista pizzas, a vegan meatball hero, and even vegan cheesecake! In addition to tomato sauce, they have a vegan pesto sauce and housemade cashew parmesan.
Hayward
Ben’s Fast Food ⭐️ – This healthy quick serve chain serves nutritious bowls and salads. Their entire menu is “free of gluten, dairy, peanuts, eggs, fish, shellfish, and mustard.” Walnuts (as a topping) were the only tree nut at last check. They do have a detailed allergen menu and vegan options.
Lotus & Lime ⭐️ – They offer a fresh take on Asian food with a selection of purple rice bowls and salad bowls. Their entire menu is “free of gluten, dairy, peanuts, eggs, fish, shellfish, and mustard.” Cashews (as a topping) were the only tree nut at last check. They do have a detailed allergen menu.
Palmita ⭐️ – They serve a quick serve menu of California-style Mexican cuisine. It includes a selection of bowls, house sauces, and sides. Their entire menu is “free of gluten, dairy, peanuts, eggs, fish, shellfish, and mustard.” They also shun tree nuts on their menu, but walnuts might be used on site. They offer additional allergen information and vegan options.
Straw Hat Pizza – This pizzeria offers a vegan-gluten-free crust, a few vegan sauces, and a plethora of toppings. Participating stores have Daiya dairy-free cheese available and a vegan pizza on the menu. According to their allergen information, they also offer dairy-free breaded shrimp, garlic fries, wings (bone in and boneless), fries, onion rings, and other bites. Check in store or online for their current allergen info.
Umami Express ⭐️ – They offer a fresh take on east Asian food with a selection of nutritious bowls. Their entire menu is “free of gluten, dairy, peanuts, eggs, fish, shellfish, and mustard.” Walnuts (as a topping) were the only tree nut at last check. They do have a detailed allergen menu.
Hollister
Saladworks – Pretty much their entire menu contains dairy, but they offer an interactive allergen menu that tells you how to custom order most items without dairy (or other special diet needs). You can choose between salads, warm grain bowls, wraps, and a few other items. They offer a good handful of dairy-free dressings, and do have gluten-free and vegan options.
Straw Hat Pizza – This pizzeria offers a vegan-gluten-free crust, a few vegan sauces, and a plethora of toppings. Participating stores have Daiya dairy-free cheese available and a vegan pizza on the menu. According to their allergen information, they also offer dairy-free breaded shrimp, garlic fries, wings (bone in and boneless), fries, onion rings, and other bites. Check in store or online for their current allergen info.
Huron
Straw Hat Pizza – This pizzeria offers a vegan-gluten-free crust, a few vegan sauces, and a plethora of toppings. Participating stores have Daiya dairy-free cheese available and a vegan pizza on the menu. According to their allergen information, they also offer dairy-free breaded shrimp, garlic fries, wings (bone in and boneless), fries, onion rings, and other bites. Check in store or online for their current allergen info.
Kingsburg
Pelican’s SnoBalls – This sweet chain makes New Orleans style shaved ice. And according to the company, their flavor syrups are all made without top allergens. Just skip the cream snowcap or ask if they have dairy-free coconut cream available.
Lafayette
Proposition Chicken – This is a local Bay Area chain. Their fried and fake (tofu) chicken is dairy-free. Their flipped chicken is dairy-free, but reheated in butter – just request “no butter” and they will use olive oil. All of their sandwiches and entrees are dairy-free or can be made dairy-free on request. They can also make a custom order kale salad. Just be sure to ask which dipping sauces are dairy-free when placing your order – they have options like chimichurri, bbq sauce, and habanero.
Sliver Pizzeria – Their sourdough crust is vegan, and they offer vegan cheese and a vegan gluten-free crust. Their menu is even labelled to show vegan sauces and sides.
Yogurt Shack – They typically have dairy-free Dole Whip soft serve available and a good selection of toppings. They sometimes have an additional fruity soft serve flavor, like POG.
Lathrop
Livermore
Extreme Pizza – They have a whole menu of vegan signature pizzas, and of course, you can build your own dairy-free pizza. You can also custom order one of their many salads.
Hummus Republic – Their build-your-own pita, wrap, or bowl menu is filled with dairy-free options. They even offer vegan proteins, and most components are dairy-free (includes hummuses and dressings). They clearly label for vegan and gluten-free guests.
Läderach – These Swiss chocolate shops now offer a full dairy-free and vegan line with various dark and cashewmilk chocolate options. The decadent collection includes bars, all types of barks, and some other confections.
Sauced BBQ & Spirits – Thank you to Jamie for recommending this restaurant. They reportedly have allergen protocols, and offer quite a few dairy-free meat and vegetarian options.
Wow Wow Lemonade – Enjoy fresh-pressed lemonades (with sugar-free options), dairy-free acai bowls, superfood smoothies, several toasts, and grain bowls at this Hawaiian-inspired restaurant chain. Most of their menu is dairy-free and they have many vegan options.
Los Altos
Bluestone Lane Los Altos Café – They label their menu for items that contain dairy, which seems like a lot. But they actually have a good handful of dairy-free items, including sandwiches, wraps, salads, and bowls. A few more items can be custom ordered without dairy.
Boba Guys – This boba tea chain offers several dairy-free drinks right on their menu, like Korean Banana Milk and Horchata. They also offer dairy-free milk alternatives to make their unique latte boba drinks dairy-free, like the Strawberry Matcha, Ube, and Hojicha Lattes. In fact, most of their drink menu is easily dairy-free.
Ladle & Leaf – In 2020, they turned to more of a pick-up model, and we aren’t sure if their cafes will reopen. Either way, they label their menu items for dairy-free ang gluten-free customers, and have a good selection of dairy-free soups, salads, and ready-made entrees.
Sweet Diplomacy ⭐️ – Everything at this bake shop, coffeehouse, and local market is gluten-free, soy-free, and peanut-free. But they also offer a big selection for dairy-free customers, including cakes, cupcakes, cookies, muffins, meringue, clafoutis, and more. They also have vegan and paleo options. Their coffee drinks can be made with soy, almond, or oat milk.
Los Gatos
Manteca
Straw Hat Pizza – This pizzeria offers a vegan-gluten-free crust, a few vegan sauces, and a plethora of toppings. Participating stores have Daiya dairy-free cheese available and a vegan pizza on the menu. According to their allergen information, they also offer dairy-free breaded shrimp, garlic fries, wings (bone in and boneless), fries, onion rings, and other bites. Check in store or online for their current allergen info.
Marin
Gott’s Roadside – They have an extensive menu of burgers that you can order with beef, turkey, or vegan Impossible patties. You do need to custom order for dairy-free and vegan, but they do offer a vegan bun and lettuce wrap. Their menu also includes various salads, tacos, poke, and more.
Marina
Teriyaki Madness ⭐️ – This is a great casual spot for a range of teriyaki-style bowls and Asian appetizers. They offer an easy-to-read allergen chart. At last check, everything was dairy-free on the savory menu, except for the crab rangoon.
Martinez
Slow Hand BBQ – A Go Dairy Free fan named Diana emailed this recommendation. “All the meats at Slow Hand BBQ are gluten free and dairy free. This was a secret find because they don’t advertise it but they hardly put any ingredients in their meat. They feel smoking it gives it the flavor. Their BBQ sauces are even gluten free and dairy free! The sides that are dairy free are the coleslaw and German potato salad – they are even egg free with no mayo. Just tell them about your allergies and they will work with you.”
Mendocino
Happy Hermit ⭐️ – This is a gluten-free home baker that takes orders and it at the local area farmer’s markets. She offers some varieties of vegan cookies, dairy-free coffee cake, other cakes, breads, and more.
Stanford Inn by the Sea – This is a luxury vegan eco-resort overlooking California’s rugged Mendocino coast. Ravens Restaurant, on site, uses freshly grown produce from their certified organic gardens to create plant-based cuisine. They also have cooking classes (and many other classes) at the resort.
Menlo Park
Proposition Chicken – This is a local Bay Area chain. Their fried and fake (tofu) chicken is dairy-free. Their flipped chicken is dairy-free, but reheated in butter – just request “no butter” and they will use olive oil. All of their sandwiches and entrees are dairy-free or can be made dairy-free on request. They can also make a custom order kale salad. Just be sure to ask which dipping sauces are dairy-free when placing your order – they have options like chimichurri, bbq sauce, and habanero.
Mill Valley
Flour Craft Bakery & Cafe – This is a gluten-free establishment, but they offer several vegan goodies. This includes vegan donuts (flavors change seasonally), bread (additional loaves are “just” dairy-free), cookies, brownies, granola, and chocolate layer cakes (on order). You can also custom order dairy-free toasts, tartines, and salads from their cafe.
Milpitas
CREAM Nation ⭐️ – Although this is a traditional ice cream sandwich shop, they do offer some vegan goodies. On the menu, you should see at least a couple dairy-free, plant-based ice cream flavors. And to make your dairy-free ice cream sandwich experience complete, they have a nice little selection of vegan cookies. Once your dairy-free dessert is assembled, it can be rolled in or garnished with select dairy-free toppings. Alternatively, you can order scoops, sundaes, shakes, and coffee drinks at this cool spot.
RAW Superfoods Café ⭐️ – This vegan cafe serves smoothies, wellness bowls, burgers, bagels, sandwiches, adaptogenic lattes, and they have a full coffee bar.
Straw Hat Pizza – This pizzeria offers a vegan-gluten-free crust, a few vegan sauces, and a plethora of toppings. Participating stores have Daiya dairy-free cheese available and a vegan pizza on the menu. According to their allergen information, they also offer dairy-free breaded shrimp, garlic fries, wings (bone in and boneless), fries, onion rings, and other bites. Check in store or online for their current allergen info.
Modesto
Johnny Carino’s – This Italian chain offers a good allergen menu, and at last check, they offered some good dairy-free create your own pasta options and some meaty options, like ribs and wings.
Yogurt Mill – They offer dairy-free soft serve in creamy (made with oat milk), sorbet, and acai varieties. Depending on the day and location, they might have 2 to 5 dairy-free flavor options. They also offer non-dairy fudge sauce and a good selection of toppings.
Monterey
Alvarado Street Brewery – They offer (canned) vegan hard smoothies, and offer a vegan burger on the menu, but many more dishes can be ordered dairy free. They are reportedly quite accommodating to dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan guests.
El Cantaro ⭐️ – Everything is vegan at this Mexican restaurant. They make quesadillas, enchiladas, taco, burritos, plates, and much more.
Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop – They’ve added dairy-free Coconut Bliss Madagascan Vanilla ice cream to their scoop menu. They also offer floats, and select dairy-free toppings for sundaes. In the chocolate shop, check out their hot cocoa mixes, they have options made without dairy.
Hula’s Island Grill – Enjoy the tiki-atmosphere at this 1960s throwback restaurant. They have a wonderful atmosphere for happy hour, lunch or dinner. We also found them to be extremely helpful and kind with special diet requests. They have a gluten-free menu and many naturally dairy-free selections. Their menus are fish-heavy, but include loads of burgers, sandwiches, salads, bowls, entrees, and “pupus” – all with a Hawaiian flavor flair. They also have a fun assortment of “adults-only” drinks, many served in tiki glasses, of course.
MidiCi Pizza – Their signature Neapolitan dough is light, thin, soft, and chewy, with a high crust, and it’s dairy-free. It’s made purely with a special Neapolitan flour, water, sea salt, and yeast. They also offer dairy-free cheese alternative and vegan sausage, and have several custom order salad options.
Monterey’s Tasty Olive Bar – For a fun dairy-free tasting, head to this olive oil and vinegar shop. They have over 70 varieties available for tasting, and they also sell flavorful spices, and some dairy-free sauces.
Nece’s Gluten Free Baked Goods – Their bakery is dedicated gluten-free, and they offer some vegan cookies, muffins, and custom order cakes.
Paprika Cafe – They serve traditional Mediterranean pita, salad, and combo plate meals with many dairy-free options. But they also make vegan baklava.
Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.
Revival Ice Cream – This local ice cream shop offers several creamy dairy-free flavors, like chocolate hazelnut, passionfruit mango, peanut butter chip, salted caramel, milk & cookies, and summer lemonade. They also make gluten-free, dairy-free ice cream cakes, vegan ice cream sandwiches, and offer vegan, gluten-free waffle cones.
Terra Superfoods ⭐️ – This plant-based shop offers smoothies, bowls, toasts, and wraps.
Morgan Hill
Craft Roots ⭐️ – This vegan bar and grill sources beer from local breweries and serves a full menu of bowls, bites, burgers, and pizzas. They also have desserts, like cupcakes and ice cream sandwiches.
MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes – This expanding franchise makes dairy-free burgers with a range of protein, bun, sauce, and topping options. They have a detailed allergen chart to help you order. They also offer vegan, paleo, and gluten-free options.
Mountain View
Blue Line Pizza – They are reportedly well-versed at handling allergy orders, and they offer a vegan pizza crust and Daiya dairy-free cheese, so most pizzas can be ordered without dairy.
Garden Fresh – It isn’t too hard to find dairy-free options at Chinese restaurants, but this popular spot is completely vegan. They receive top ratings for their Chinese cuisine made with plant-based mock meats. And you’ll want to stick around for dessert, which includes carrot cake and chocolate cake.
Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.
Pokeworks – All of their signature poke bowls, and pretty much all of their menu is dairy-free, including the Dole Whip for dessert! They offer raw, cooked, and vegan proteins.
The Counter – They have a few outposts in other U.S. states, but The Counter is primarily a California burger chain with an expansive vegan menu. They even offer vegan cheese. Consequently, their burgers and many other savory items can be made dairy-free on request.
Murphys
JoMa’s Artisan Ice Cream – Thanks to Jeff for this recommendation. He says this shop “makes all their own ice creams, and they always have 3 non dairy sorbets which are so creamy you feel compelled to ask if they are really non dairy.”
Napa
Gott’s Roadside – They have an extensive menu of burgers that you can order with beef, turkey, or vegan Impossible patties. You do need to custom order for dairy-free and vegan, but they do offer a vegan bun and lettuce wrap. Their menu also includes various salads, tacos, poke, and more.
Newark
Hummus Republic – Their build-your-own pita, wrap, or bowl menu is filled with dairy-free options. They even offer vegan proteins, and most components are dairy-free (includes hummuses and dressings). They clearly label for vegan and gluten-free guests.
Indigo Burger ⭐️ – Thank you to Rachel for this recommendation, “Totally vegan and totally good! I have had their burgers, fries, shakes, nachos and even cashew cheese based mozzarella sticks. Yum!” Their menu also includes cream sodas and floats, and grilled “cheese” sandwiches for the kids.
Lazy Dog – This chain restaurant has a full allergen chart for their modern bar and grill style menu. It also includes a vegan column. They have dairy-free options throughout their menu, including appetizers, salads, Asian-style bowls, seafood, ribs, and plenty of sides. At last check, they also had a dairy-free pie for dessert.
Novato
Extreme Pizza – They have a whole menu of vegan signature pizzas, and of course, you can build your own dairy-free pizza. You can also custom order one of their many salads.
Nekter Juice Bar – See our Nekter Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Teriyaki Madness ⭐️ – This is a great casual spot for a range of teriyaki-style bowls and Asian appetizers. They offer an easy-to-read allergen chart. At last check, everything was dairy-free on the savory menu, except for the crab rangoon.
Oakland
Bare Knuckle Pizza – This “small batch” pizzeria has several vegan pizzas on their menu, and most other pizzas can be ordered dairy free. They make their tomato sauce from locally grown tomatoes and source their vegan mozzarella from The Butcher’s Son in Berkeley.
Ben’s Fast Food ⭐️ – This healthy quick serve chain serves nutritious bowls and salads. Their entire menu is “free of gluten, dairy, peanuts, eggs, fish, shellfish, and mustard.” Walnuts (as a topping) were the only tree nut at last check. They do have a detailed allergen menu and vegan options.
Boba Guys – This boba tea chain offers several dairy-free drinks right on their menu, like Korean Banana Milk and Horchata. They also offer dairy-free milk alternatives to make their unique latte boba drinks dairy-free, like the Strawberry Matcha, Ube, and Hojicha Lattes. In fact, most of their drink menu is easily dairy-free.
Casa Borinqueña – This is a plant-based, vegan Puerto Rican caterer and pop-up restaurant now established in a brick-and-mortar restaurant.
Curbside Creamery – Hannah recommended this ice cream shop. It’s not exclusively vegan, but they offer a rotating variety of dairy-free cashew-based ice creams, from Cookies ‘n Cream to Rocky Road. All of their toppings and cones are also vegan, and they offer vegan ice cream sandwiches.
Delightful Foods / The No Cookie Bakery – This local bakery offers “The No Cookie” cookies, which are vegan and come in a handful of flavors.
Dimond Slice Pizza – This is a vegetarian pizzeria that offers vegan pizza of the day as whole pizzas or slices.
Donut Farm ⭐️ – You can’t leave the Bay Area without trying these artisanal vegan donuts. You might spot them at other stores or restaurants in the area, but if you go to their shop, you will also discover full vegan breakfast and lunch menus.
Homeroom – Mac and cheese is a staple at this lunch spot, and they do have a vegan option! you can load it up with veggies, meats, or faux “meats,” or order it with different spices. They also have some dairy-free sides and a gluten-free vegan brownie (from Inspired Cookie Co) for dessert.
Jaji ⭐️ – Thank you to Aly for recommending this “contemporary Afghan” restaurant! They label their menu with dairy-free and vegan options (nuts and gluten are also labeled). Options include small bites, big bites, kabobs, sides, and possibly vegan dessert.
Kitava ⭐️ – Their menus are “100% free of gluten, dairy, soy, peanuts, refined sugar & seed oils.” Their menu focuses on bowls, with build-your-own options, but they also serve small plates, snacks, and desserts. They’re open for lunch and dinner.
kubé ⭐️ – This is a vegan, artisanal, full-fat coconut ice cream that you can buy at the local grand lake farmer’s market or local coops. You can also order it direct for delivery in the local area.
La Veganza ⭐️ – This Mexican restaurant serves a big selection of vegan tacos, tamales, burritos, nachos, tostadas, and more.
Mariposa Baking Co – Every artisan-crafted bite is made in their own dedicated gluten-free bakery. They do use dairy in some products, but reportedly sanitize between production of products with any top allergens. Their dairy-free selection includes several types of cookies, muffins, cakes, cupcakes, tea loaves, pies, and their famous biscotti. They also make dairy-free pizzas.
Millennium ⭐️ – You might have seen this restaurant name on our site before, their chef shared a great recipe for vegan pecan pie with us. But you can get much more than dessert at this all-vegan restaurant. They serve an award-winning menu with burgers, tacos, alfredo, and several other dishes.
Monster Pho – My friend Sharon at Nut Free Wok recommended this popular local Vietnamese restaurant. Most Vietnamese restaurants offer a highly dairy-free menu, but Sharon felt this one was best for both food and special diet service. “Monster Pho has the best food and is very kind and inclusive to people with food allergies. Their desserts contain dairy but the entrée items do not have dairy, be sure to let them know about your food allergies.”
Mr. Dewie’s Cashew Creamery ⭐️ – This dairy-free, gluten-free, soy-free ice cream shop offers a range of cashew-based flavors and several vegan treats (like cookies, ice cream sandwiches, and sweet sauces by the jar).
Noor Indian Fusion ⭐️ – They offer vegan curries on their menu, but also note which items contain dairy, and which can be ordered dairy free.
Palmita ⭐️ – They serve a quick serve menu of California-style Mexican cuisine. It includes a selection of bowls, house sauces, and sides. Their entire menu is “free of gluten, dairy, peanuts, eggs, fish, shellfish, and mustard.” They also shun tree nuts on their menu, but walnuts might be used on site. They offer additional allergen information and vegan options.
Parche ⭐️ – Thanks to Aly for this recommendation! This is the sister restaurant to Jaji, but they serve “contemporary Columbian.” The menu is labeled for dairy-free options, which includes almost everything. They have ceviches and a range of shared plates.
Philomena Pizza – Thanks to Amelia for letting us know this restaurant offers Miyoko’s cheese alternative. She says their pizzas are easy to customize. They also offer some custom dairy-free menu options beyond pizza.
Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.
Planted Table ⭐️ – This plant-based kitchen offers meal plans, and they deliver throughout the Bay Area. You can also pick up at their Oakland location.
Proposition Chicken – This is a local Bay Area chain. Their fried and fake (tofu) chicken is dairy-free. Their flipped chicken is dairy-free, but reheated in butter – just request “no butter” and they will use olive oil. All of their sandwiches and entrees are dairy-free or can be made dairy-free on request. They can also make a custom order kale salad. Just be sure to ask which dipping sauces are dairy-free when placing your order – they have options like chimichurri, bbq sauce, and habanero.
Rush Bowls – This smoothie and smoothie bowl chain isn’t dairy-free, but they are happy to accommodate. They offer oat, almond, coconut, and soymilk options. Some menu items call for froyo, but you can sub banana for no charge, or acai for an additional charge. At last check, most of their toppers and all of their boosts (except for whey – they do have soy protein available) were made without dairy.
Señor Sisig – They serve Filipino street food, most of which can be ordered dairy free. But they also offer a very full vegan menu.
Sliver Pizzeria – Their sourdough crust is vegan, and they offer vegan cheese and a vegan gluten-free crust. Their menu is even labelled to show vegan sauces and sides.
T’chaka a Taste of Haiti – Thanks to Amelia for this recommendation. “Offers vegan and dairy free items (including Jerk Chicken) and specifically lists gluten free options. Food was amazing and atmosphere is great. Old Oakland area also has several places to visit if you are travelling.”
Timeless Coffee Roasters ⭐️ – This is a purely vegan coffee shop and bakery. They pour lattes with your choice of oat, soy, or almond milk, bake all types of sweet and savory pastries, craft chocolates, and take orders for decadent cakes.
Umami Express ⭐️ – They offer a fresh take on east Asian food with a selection of nutritious bowls. Their entire menu is “free of gluten, dairy, peanuts, eggs, fish, shellfish, and mustard.” Walnuts (as a topping) were the only tree nut at last check. They do have a detailed allergen menu.
Vegan Donut Gelato ⭐️ – The name says it all. Their dairy-free, egg-free gelato is slow churned Italian ice cream that promises a rich, creamy experience with less fat, calries, and sugar. Their donut menu includes all of the classics – from classic glazed to jelly-filled to apple fritters. And of course, organic coffee and tea is served.
Pacific Grove
Happy Girl Kitchen – This organic, local cafe offers some vegan and gluten-free pastries and desserts daily (like lemon “cheesecake!”). They also serve dairy-free toasts and sandwiches, with gluten-free options. And they offer other house-made goodies, like granola, almond milk, and latte syrups.
Julia’s Vegetarian Restaurant – They’re open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late night happy hour, and most of their menu is, or can be ordered, vegan. It includes dishes like brunch bowls, huevos rancheros, and french toast in the morning, with a diverse menu later in the day. They have Asian dishes, tamales, salads, and a whole pizza menu.
Lover’s Point Beach Cafe – This indulgent spot surprises with acai bowls and vegan cheesecake. Custom order sandwiches are also a great option.
Passionfish ⭐️ – We’re always excited to discover local restaurants that go to the trouble of making an allergy menu. This seafood house outlines the top allergens in each dish, and which can be modified to remove the allergen(s). For dairy-free guests, there are quite a few options, including fish, shellfish, other meat, and vegetable dishes.
Palo Alto
Boba Guys – This boba tea chain offers several dairy-free drinks right on their menu, like Korean Banana Milk and Horchata. They also offer dairy-free milk alternatives to make their unique latte boba drinks dairy-free, like the Strawberry Matcha, Ube, and Hojicha Lattes. In fact, most of their drink menu is easily dairy-free.
Earthbar – This wellness shop also contains a dairy-free juice and smoothie bar, where you can also order vegan waffles and toasts (with various toppings – including almondmilk ricotta), superfood bowls, and coffee drinks.
Gott’s Roadside – They have an extensive menu of burgers that you can order with beef, turkey, or vegan Impossible patties. You do need to custom order for dairy-free and vegan, but they do offer a vegan bun and lettuce wrap. Their menu also includes various salads, tacos, poke, and more.
Läderach – These Swiss chocolate shops now offer a full dairy-free and vegan line with various dark and cashewmilk chocolate options. The decadent collection includes bars, all types of barks, and some other confections.
Ladle & Leaf – In 2020, they turned to more of a pick-up model, and we aren’t sure if their cafes will reopen. Either way, they label their menu items for dairy-free ang gluten-free customers, and have a good selection of dairy-free soups, salads, and ready-made entrees.
Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.
Salt & Straw – See our Salt & Straw Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Tender Greens – Salads, bowls, sandwiches, and build-your-own plates are the specialty at this quintessentially California chain. Their menu boasts fresh and healthful cuisine with ample dairy-free, gluten-free, vegan, and other special diet options.
True Food Kitchen – See our True Food Kitchen Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Petaluma
Extreme Pizza – They have a whole menu of vegan signature pizzas, and of course, you can build your own dairy-free pizza. You can also custom order one of their many salads.
Pinole
Pleasant Hill
Rooted Coffee Co ⭐️ – Thank you to Kellie for recommending this vegan coffee shop. She says they have “great coffee, food, and baked goods.” And “their scones are so good I had to ask to confirm they are dairy free!” They have a full menu of milk beverages to choose from, and have a full menu of toasts, salads, yogurt parfaits, gluten-free waffles, and pastries. They say all items can be ordered gluten free.
Slow Hand BBQ – A Go Dairy Free fan named Diana emailed this recommendation. “All the meats at Slow Hand BBQ are gluten free and dairy free. This was a secret find because they don’t advertise it but they hardly put any ingredients in their meat. They feel smoking it gives it the flavor. Their BBQ sauces are even gluten free and dairy free! The sides that are dairy free are the coleslaw and German potato salad – they are even egg free with no mayo. Just tell them about your allergies and they will work with you.”
Urban Plates ⭐️ – This California chain proudly puts their diet and allergen information front and center. Their menu is boldly labeled with dairy-free and gluten-free items, they have a full allergen chart, and a vegan menu. They serve a healthy array of dairy-free plates, salads, bowls, and sandwiches.
Pleasanton
Blossom Vegan Restaurant ⭐️ – Thanks to Nikki for letting us know this local restaurant “is amazing! Vegan Asian-inspired cuisine. So so good!”
Teriyaki Madness ⭐️ – This is a great casual spot for a range of teriyaki-style bowls and Asian appetizers. They offer an easy-to-read allergen chart. At last check, everything was dairy-free on the savory menu, except for the crab rangoon.
Point Richmond
Extreme Pizza – They have a whole menu of vegan signature pizzas, and of course, you can build your own dairy-free pizza. You can also custom order one of their many salads.
Portola Valley
Rossotti’s Alpine Inn – They are particular about cross-contamination (they cater to gluten-free customers heavily), and do have a meal-worthy dairy-free chicken salad on their menu.
Rancho Cordova
Straw Hat Pizza – This pizzeria offers a vegan-gluten-free crust, a few vegan sauces, and a plethora of toppings. Participating stores have Daiya dairy-free cheese available and a vegan pizza on the menu. According to their allergen information, they also offer dairy-free breaded shrimp, garlic fries, wings (bone in and boneless), fries, onion rings, and other bites. Check in store or online for their current allergen info.
Redwood City
Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.
Teriyaki Madness ⭐️ – This is a great casual spot for a range of teriyaki-style bowls and Asian appetizers. They offer an easy-to-read allergen chart. At last check, everything was dairy-free on the savory menu, except for the crab rangoon.
Rocklin
MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes – This expanding franchise makes dairy-free burgers with a range of protein, bun, sauce, and topping options. They have a detailed allergen chart to help you order. They also offer vegan, paleo, and gluten-free options.
Toastique – They offer dairy-free smoothies, smoothie bowls, collagen lattes, toasts, grab-and-go eats, and even some housemade treats.
Rohnert Park
Amy’s Drive Thru ⭐️ – Yes, that Amy. This fast food restaurant is actually located quite close to their corporate headquarters. The entire menu is vegetarian, and they have “Gluten Free and Vegan Options Available on Everything.” They serve an array of their organic veggie burgers, pizzas, chili, burritos, and also have salads. And yes, they have dairy-free shakes!
Grindstone Bakery ⭐️ – This artisan bake shop specializes in certified organic, vegan breads and cookies made with whole grains and seeds, which are stoneground on site, just before the dough is mixed. They bake gluten-free and grain-free breads.
Roseville
Amy’s Drive Thru ⭐️ – This is their second location – the first is in Rohnert Park. It’s an all-vegetarian fast food spot serving a big array of Amy’s organic cuisine. “Everything” on the menu has vegan and gluten-free options, and includes veggie burgers, burritos, chili, soups, and salads. They also have dairy-free smoothies and kombucha and nitro cold brew on tap.
Burger Lounge – This SoCal chain serves grass-fed burgers alongside a whole menu of vegan burgers. They offer vegan buns, dairy-free cheese, and bunless paleo and keto options. Select locations (check in advance) offer dairy-free milkshakes and root beer floats made with cashew milk ice cream.
Pushkin’s Bakery ⭐️ – This newer location has more space than their original midtown Sacramento shop, and it has a bigger menu to match. It’s a gluten-free bakery and restaurant, but everything on the menu can be dairy-free, too. They also offer quite a few vegan menu items, including eggplant lasagna and nachos. The bakery menu is also big, with all types of pastries and breads.
Salt & Straw – See our Salt & Straw Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Sacramento
Babes Ice Cream & Donuts ⭐️ – This shop is by the owners of Pushkin’s Bakery, and everything here is gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan. They do use almond milk to make their donuts, and the ice cream is churned with a coconut base.
Ben’s Fast Food ⭐️ – This healthy quick serve chain serves nutritious bowls and salads. Their entire menu is “free of gluten, dairy, peanuts, eggs, fish, shellfish, and mustard.” Walnuts (as a topping) were the only tree nut at last check. They do have a detailed allergen menu and vegan options.
Burger Lounge – This SoCal chain serves grass-fed burgers alongside a whole menu of vegan burgers. They offer vegan buns, dairy-free cheese, and bunless paleo and keto options. Select locations (check in advance) offer dairy-free milkshakes and root beer floats made with cashew milk ice cream.
Insomnia Cookies – This sweet chain offers a few flavors of vegan cookies year round, like Birthday Cake and Double Chocolate Chunk. But they also bake up seasonal vegan flavors throughout the year.
Licked – This is a traditional ice cream shop, but they’re offering a few vegan flavors daily that are made by Chocolate Shoppe.
Lotus & Lime ⭐️ – They offer a fresh take on Asian food with a selection of purple rice bowls and salad bowls. Their entire menu is “free of gluten, dairy, peanuts, eggs, fish, shellfish, and mustard.” Cashews (as a topping) were the only tree nut at last check. They do have a detailed allergen menu.
MOD Pizza – See our MOD Pizza Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Nekter Juice Bar – See our Nekter Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
OBO’ Italian Table & Bar ⭐️ – They clearly label dairy-free menu items and have a salmon entree (at last check) with hot side options, various deli salads, and even dessert.
Palmita ⭐️ – They serve a quick serve menu of California-style Mexican cuisine. It includes a selection of bowls, house sauces, and sides. Their entire menu is “free of gluten, dairy, peanuts, eggs, fish, shellfish, and mustard.” They also shun tree nuts on their menu, but walnuts might be used on site. They offer additional allergen information and vegan options.
Plant Power Fast Food ⭐️ – As the name implies, this is a vegan, quick-serve restaurant. The menu has many great options for burgers, sandwiches, wraps, salads, small bites, drinks, and even desserts. The latter includes old fashioned “milkshakes,” “cheesecakes,” chocolate chip cookies, and soft serve “ice cream.”
Pushkin’s Bakery ⭐️ – The midtown location is the flagship shop for this gluten-free bakery. It’s tiny, but constantly busy. All of their pastries are 100% gluten-free and dairy free. Their sandwiches are too, but they offer both dairy and dairy-free cheese as options. The cheese alternative is cashew based and positively delicious! The sandwich selection includes ample breakfast and midday options.
RAW Superfoods Café ⭐️ – This vegan cafe serves smoothies, wellness bowls, burgers, bagels, sandwiches, adaptogenic lattes, and they have a full coffee bar.
Salt & Straw – See our Salt & Straw Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Sauced BBQ & Spirits – Thank you to Jamie for recommending this restaurant. They reportedly have allergen protocols, and offer quite a few dairy-free meat and vegetarian options.
Seasons 52 – See our Seasons 52 Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Sellands ⭐️ – Their menu is labeled for dairy-free and gluten-free guests. The dairy-free options are plentiful, with a selection of entrees, sides, salads, sandwiches, and even a dessert.
Sibling by Pushkin’s ⭐️ – This is a full gluten-free restaurant from the founders of Pushkin’s gluten-free bakeries. Most of the menu is dairy-free, and they clearly label that few items that contain dairy. They offer egg, meat, seafood, and vegan options for brunch and dinner.
Umami Express ⭐️ – They offer a fresh take on east Asian food with a selection of nutritious bowls. Their entire menu is “free of gluten, dairy, peanuts, eggs, fish, shellfish, and mustard.” Walnuts (as a topping) were the only tree nut at last check. They do have a detailed allergen menu.
Vegan Deadly Sins ⭐️ – Thanks to Raquel for letting us know this all-vegan restaurant has “excellent Chinese food!” They have an expansive menu and also label gluten-free options.
Salinas
Island Fin Poke – Almost everything on their menu is dairy-free, and it includes some unique Hawaiian touches, like spam as a poke bowl option and dairy-free Dole Whip for dessert.
Straw Hat Pizza – This pizzeria offers a vegan-gluten-free crust, a few vegan sauces, and a plethora of toppings. Participating stores have Daiya dairy-free cheese available and a vegan pizza on the menu. According to their allergen information, they also offer dairy-free breaded shrimp, garlic fries, wings (bone in and boneless), fries, onion rings, and other bites. Check in store or online for their current allergen info.
Teriyaki Madness ⭐️ – This is a great casual spot for a range of teriyaki-style bowls and Asian appetizers. They offer an easy-to-read allergen chart. At last check, everything was dairy-free on the savory menu, except for the crab rangoon.
San Anselmo
Flour Craft Bakery & Cafe – This is a gluten-free establishment, but they offer several vegan goodies. This includes vegan donuts (flavors change seasonally), bread (additional loaves are “just” dairy-free), cookies, brownies, granola, and chocolate layer cakes (on order). You can also custom order dairy-free toasts, tartines, and salads from their cafe.
San Bruno
Hangry Planet ⭐️ – This is a gas station convenience store that’s all vegan! They sell grab-and-go snacks, meals, desserts, and more. They even have coffee drinks, donuts, and hot food.
San Carlos
Blue Line Pizza – They are reportedly well-versed at handling allergy orders, and they offer a vegan pizza crust and Daiya dairy-free cheese, so most pizzas can be ordered without dairy.
Boba Guys – This boba tea chain offers several dairy-free drinks right on their menu, like Korean Banana Milk and Horchata. They also offer dairy-free milk alternatives to make their unique latte boba drinks dairy-free, like the Strawberry Matcha, Ube, and Hojicha Lattes. In fact, most of their drink menu is easily dairy-free.
San Francisco
Alfred Coffee – This coffee chain offers a big selection of dairy-free milk alternatives and most of their drinks can be made without dairy. Their house-made dark chocolate syrup, chaggacino blend, chai concentrate, and many other syrups and add-ins are dairy-free. They also typically have a vegan muffin, breakfast sandwich, and grab and go snacks available.
As Quoted – This gluten-free brunch and lunch spot is located in the Presidio Heights area. The cuisine is “farm-inspired,” and includes many dairy-free and vegan options. Almost all of their salads can be ordered dairy-free (they even have dairy-free ranch dressing, vegan green goddess, and house vinaigrettes), they offer paleo bagels and lox with Kite Hill cream cheese alternative, and offer other open-faced sandwich, soup, and smoothie options.
Ben’s Fast Food ⭐️ – This healthy quick serve chain serves nutritious bowls and salads. Their entire menu is “free of gluten, dairy, peanuts, eggs, fish, shellfish, and mustard.” Walnuts (as a topping) were the only tree nut at last check. They do have a detailed allergen menu and vegan options.
Bliss Pops – They offer catering and pop up at local markets. Their line up includes a selection of dairy-free and vegan pops, like sea salt caramel coffee, mango sriracha, matcha green tea, and toasted coconut.
Bluestone Lane – This Australian-style cafe chain does a great job in labeling top allergens, and they offer a small selection of dairy-free sandwich and bowl options on their menu, along with a couple vegan items. Their full coffee bar has oat milk and almond milk options, and they sometimes have dairy-free specialty drink promotions.
Boba Guys – This boba tea chain offers several dairy-free drinks right on their menu, like Korean Banana Milk and Horchata. They also offer dairy-free milk alternatives to make their unique latte boba drinks dairy-free, like the Strawberry Matcha, Ube, and Hojicha Lattes. In fact, most of their drink menu is easily dairy-free.
Breads Bakery – They label their baked goods for gluten and top allergens. Their pastries do contain dairy, but most of their breads and rolls are dairy-free and they have quite a selection to choose from.
CREAM Nation ⭐️ – Although this is a traditional ice cream sandwich shop, they do offer some vegan goodies. On the menu, you should see at least a couple dairy-free, plant-based ice cream flavors. And to make your dairy-free ice cream sandwich experience complete, they have a nice little selection of vegan cookies. Once your dairy-free dessert is assembled, it can be rolled in or garnished with select dairy-free toppings. Alternatively, you can order scoops, sundaes, shakes, and coffee drinks at this cool spot.
CyBelle’s Front Room – This Italian restaurant offers a HUGE vegan menu, with pasta, pizza, calzones, appetizers, and more. They have other dairy-free options available too.
Earthbar – This wellness shop also contains a dairy-free juice and smoothie bar, where you can also order vegan waffles and toasts (with various toppings – including almondmilk ricotta), superfood bowls, and coffee drinks.
Extreme Pizza – They have a whole menu of vegan signature pizzas, and of course, you can build your own dairy-free pizza. You can also custom order one of their many salads.
Garden Creamery – They scoop a variety of creamy vegan sorbets made with coconut milk. Flavors can include Dark Chocolate, Orange Creamsicle, Thai Tea, and others that pair well with coconut.
Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop – They’ve added dairy-free Coconut Bliss Madagascan Vanilla ice cream to their scoop menu. They also offer floats, and select dairy-free toppings for sundaes. In the chocolate shop, check out their hot cocoa mixes, they have options made without dairy.
Goat Hill Pizza – Thanks to Amelia for letting us know they offer dairy-free and gluten-free pizza. It isn’t listed in their online ordering, so you do have to make a special request.
Gott’s Roadside – They have an extensive menu of burgers that you can order with beef, turkey, or vegan Impossible patties. You do need to custom order for dairy-free and vegan, but they do offer a vegan bun and lettuce wrap. Their menu also includes various salads, tacos, poke, and more. And they added Oatly vegan soft serve ice cream to their dessert menu.
Hummus Bodega ⭐️ – Everything is dairy-free at this local Mediterranean shop. They make hummus bowls, pita sandwiches, plates, salads, and desserts.
Indochine Vegan ⭐️ – This all-vegan restaurant has a diverse Asian menu with a cross section of Americanized dishes.
Insomnia Cookies – This sweet chain offers a few flavors of vegan cookies year round, like Birthday Cake and Double Chocolate Chunk. But they also bake up seasonal vegan flavors throughout the year.
Kitava ⭐️ – Their menus are “100% free of gluten, dairy, soy, peanuts, refined sugar & seed oils.” Their menu focuses on bowls, with build-your-own options, but they also serve small plates, snacks, and desserts. They’re open for lunch and dinner.
La Boulangerie – This legendary San Francisco bakery now makes their own vegan croissant toast bread.
Ladle & Leaf – In 2020, they turned to more of a pick-up model, and we aren’t sure if their cafes will reopen. Either way, they label their menu items for dairy-free ang gluten-free customers, and have a good selection of dairy-free soups, salads, and ready-made entrees.
Lotus & Lime ⭐️ – They offer a fresh take on Asian food with a selection of purple rice bowls and salad bowls. Their entire menu is “free of gluten, dairy, peanuts, eggs, fish, shellfish, and mustard.” Cashews (as a topping) were the only tree nut at last check. They do have a detailed allergen menu.
Loving Hut ⭐️ – This is possibly the largest vegan franchise in the world. Their dairy-free, egg-free, and meat-free menu offers an extensive list of Asian and American inspired dishes, served in a casual counter serve style (sometimes in food courts). They also offer desserts and labeled gluten-free options.
Mama Ji’s – This Chinese restaurant specializes in home-style Sichuan dishes. It was recommended by my friend Hannah for their delicious vegan options. Most of the menu is naturally dairy free.
Mr. Charlie’s ⭐️ – This is a vegan copycat restaurant of McDonald’s. They serve a similar menu but use only “plant based” ingredients. It includes burgers, chicken nuggets, breakfast sandwiches, and Mr. Fluff-Head, a plant-based vanilla ice cream made from potatoes.
Next Level Burger ⭐️ – This fledgling chain touts itself as America’s first fully vegan burger joint. It’s a counter-serve spot with an array of plant-based burgers, “chicken” sandwiches, fries, and tots. They also blend dairy-free shakes and have house-made soft serve. This location is inside Whole Foods.
Nourish Cafe ⭐️ – They have two locations, one near the Presidio and one near Union Square. Their menu is purely plant-based and dairy-free, with a healthy array of savory bowls, wraps, sandwiches, soups, toasts, smoothie bowls, and smoothies. They’re also well loved for their coffee and tea drinks, and rotating gluten-free baked goods and desserts.
Palm Acai Cafe – This is a great spot for acai bowls, smoothie bowls, and smoothies. At last check, their plant-based menu was dairy-free, but they do say they handle dairy (and other allergens) in their kitchen.
Palmita ⭐️ – They serve a quick serve menu of California-style Mexican cuisine. It includes a selection of bowls, house sauces, and sides. Their entire menu is “free of gluten, dairy, peanuts, eggs, fish, shellfish, and mustard.” They also shun tree nuts on their menu, but walnuts might be used on site. They offer additional allergen information and vegan options.
Proper Food – Thank you to Amelia for letting us know they offer “to go meals for lunch and breakfast with gf & df options. They happily check their allergen list to help guests make choices.” They offer quick breakfasts, salads, hot plates, vegan wraps, and more, and have locations throughout the city.
Proposition Chicken – This is a local Bay Area chain. Their fried and fake (tofu) chicken is dairy-free. Their flipped chicken is dairy-free, but reheated in butter – just request “no butter” and they will use olive oil. All of their sandwiches and entrees are dairy-free or can be made dairy-free on request. They can also make a custom order kale salad. Just be sure to ask which dipping sauces are dairy-free when placing your order – they have options like chimichurri, bbq sauce, and habanero.
Reborn Coffee – This California cafe chain offers a menu of milk alternatives for your latte, a couple vegan pastries (like croissants!), and they have a line of their own ice cream with a dairy-free coconut cream flavor.
Sabra Grill ⭐️ – This glatt kosher restaurant is dairy free, and serves Israeli and Mediterranean cuisine. Their menu includes hummus plates, rice bowls, kabobs, other entrees and starters, and classic desserts.
Salt & Straw – See our Salt & Straw Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Señor Sisig – They serve Filipino street food, most of which can be ordered dairy free. But they also offer a very full vegan menu.
Shizen Vegan Sushi Bar and Izakaya ⭐️ – The founders of Tataki Sushi and Sake Bar decided to tackle a completely plant-based Japanese restaurant. They offer creative sushi, comforting ramen, and more.
St. Francis Fountain – San Francisco’s oldest diner reportedly has a vegan (soy-based) milkshake on their menu!
Tender Greens – Salads, bowls, sandwiches, and build-your-own plates are the specialty at this quintessentially California chain. Their menu boasts fresh and healthful cuisine with ample dairy-free, gluten-free, vegan, and other special diet options.
The Baked Bear – This is an ice cream sandwich shop where you choose the cookies and the ice cream. They offer a daily vegan ice cream flavor (like chocolate chip) and have a couple vegan and gluten-free cookie options.
The Mill – Fresh baked bread and coffee are the specialties at this wifi-free, unplugged spot. We’ve heard their almond milk lattes are fabulous, and best savored with toast and the baker’s house made almond butter. They also offer pastries with gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan options. And they have bread loaves, granola, and cookies to go.
The Plant Cafe Organic – They have a few locations dotted around the golden city, all serving local and sustainably-sourced cuisine. This isn’t a vegan restaurant, but they label vegan, gluten-free, and paleo options right on their expansive menu. Most items are, or can be made, dairy-free, including the breakfasts, bowls, smoothies, and more.
The View Lounge ⭐️ – They offer small plates and have dairy-free and gluten-free items clearly labeled. Dairy-free options can include seared tuna, roasted cauliflower, chicken adobo tacos, and more.
Umami Express ⭐️ – They offer a fresh take on east Asian food with a selection of nutritious bowls. Their entire menu is “free of gluten, dairy, peanuts, eggs, fish, shellfish, and mustard.” Walnuts (as a topping) were the only tree nut at last check. They do have a detailed allergen menu.
Wildseed ⭐️ – Enjoy seasonal vegan cuisine and craft cocktails in a warm botanical setting. They offer next level comfort foods, like pizza with cashew mozzarella and truffled bechamel, alongside garden-inspired salads and shareables. They also serve brunch and dessert.
San Francisco Airport (SFO)
Amy’s – They serve several of their organic veggie burgers, soups, and chilis. They even offer non-dairy shakes!
Kitava ⭐️ – Their menus are “100% free of gluten, dairy, soy, peanuts, refined sugar & seed oils.” Their menu focuses on bowls, with build-your-own options, but they also serve small plates, snacks, and desserts. They’re open for lunch and dinner.
San Jose
Aina’s Vegan Banh Mi ⭐️ – Thanks to Dolores for letting us know this shop “was the only deli in the Bay Area that made Yelp’s latest list of top 100 sandwich shops in America.” As the name implies, they offer a range of vegan banh mi sandwiches. They also have smoothies, fruit teas, and soymilk teas. They are located inside the Vegan Bistro Donuts & Cafe.
Ben’s Fast Food ⭐️ – This healthy quick serve chain serves nutritious bowls and salads. Their entire menu is “free of gluten, dairy, peanuts, eggs, fish, shellfish, and mustard.” Walnuts (as a topping) were the only tree nut at last check. They do have a detailed allergen menu and vegan options.
Boba Guys – This boba tea chain offers several dairy-free drinks right on their menu, like Korean Banana Milk and Horchata. They also offer dairy-free milk alternatives to make their unique latte boba drinks dairy-free, like the Strawberry Matcha, Ube, and Hojicha Lattes. In fact, most of their drink menu is easily dairy-free.
CREAM Nation ⭐️ – Although this is a traditional ice cream sandwich shop, they do offer some vegan goodies. On the menu, you should see at least a couple dairy-free, plant-based ice cream flavors. And to make your dairy-free ice cream sandwich experience complete, they have a nice little selection of vegan cookies. Once your dairy-free dessert is assembled, it can be rolled in or garnished with select dairy-free toppings. Alternatively, you can order scoops, sundaes, shakes, and coffee drinks at this cool spot.
Forest & Flour ⭐️ – This home-based bakery operates by orders and pick-ups and also sells at several farmers markets in the Bay Area. Their facility is completely dairy-free and gluten-free, and everything they bake is also peanut-free, soy-free, and corn-free. They bake a big array of breads and pastries, have some vegan options, and also take custom cake orders.
Happiness Cafe – Everything is vegan at this local lunch and dinner spot. They serve a selection of sandwiches, pasta, Asian dishes, and snacks.
Insomnia Cookies – This sweet chain offers a few flavors of vegan cookies year round, like Birthday Cake and Double Chocolate Chunk. But they also bake up seasonal vegan flavors throughout the year.
JINYA Ramen Bar – Believe it or not, many ramen bases contain milk. But JINYA offers a couple vegan ramen options and most of their ramen dishes, soups, and expansive small plates are dairy-free. They have a great comprehensive allergen chart.
Lotus & Lime ⭐️ – They offer a fresh take on Asian food with a selection of purple rice bowls and salad bowls. Their entire menu is “free of gluten, dairy, peanuts, eggs, fish, shellfish, and mustard.” Cashews (as a topping) were the only tree nut at last check. They do have a detailed allergen menu.
Loving Hut ⭐️ – This is possibly the largest vegan franchise in the world. Their dairy-free, egg-free, and meat-free menu offers an extensive list of Asian and American inspired dishes, served in a casual counter serve style (sometimes in food courts). They also offer desserts and labeled gluten-free options.
Más Veggies Vegan Taqueria ⭐️ – This all-vegan taco chain offers tacos, burritos, bowls, nachos, and taco salads with a modern plant-based spin. They’re available at Veggie Grill locations.
MOD Pizza – See our MOD Pizza Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Palmita ⭐️ – They serve a quick serve menu of California-style Mexican cuisine. It includes a selection of bowls, house sauces, and sides. Their entire menu is “free of gluten, dairy, peanuts, eggs, fish, shellfish, and mustard.” They also shun tree nuts on their menu, but walnuts might be used on site. They offer additional allergen information and vegan options.
Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.
Pokeworks – All of their signature poke bowls, and pretty much all of their menu is dairy-free, including the Dole Whip for dessert! They offer raw, cooked, and vegan proteins.
Proposition Chicken – This is a local Bay Area chain. Their fried and fake (tofu) chicken is dairy-free. Their flipped chicken is dairy-free, but reheated in butter – just request “no butter” and they will use olive oil. All of their sandwiches and entrees are dairy-free or can be made dairy-free on request. They can also make a custom order kale salad. Just be sure to ask which dipping sauces are dairy-free when placing your order – they have options like chimichurri, bbq sauce, and habanero.
RAW Superfoods Café ⭐️ – This vegan cafe serves smoothies, wellness bowls, burgers, bagels, sandwiches, adaptogenic lattes, and they have a full coffee bar.
Sauced BBQ & Spirits – Thank you to Jamie for recommending this restaurant. They reportedly have allergen protocols, and offer quite a few dairy-free meat and vegetarian options.
Straw Hat Pizza – This pizzeria offers a vegan-gluten-free crust, a few vegan sauces, and a plethora of toppings. Participating stores have Daiya dairy-free cheese available and a vegan pizza on the menu. According to their allergen information, they also offer dairy-free breaded shrimp, garlic fries, wings (bone in and boneless), fries, onion rings, and other bites. Check in store or online for their current allergen info.
Teriyaki Madness ⭐️ – This is a great casual spot for a range of teriyaki-style bowls and Asian appetizers. They offer an easy-to-read allergen chart. At last check, everything was dairy-free on the savory menu, except for the crab rangoon.
The Counter – They have a few outposts in other U.S. states, but The Counter is primarily a California burger chain with an expansive vegan menu. They even offer vegan cheese. Consequently, their burgers and many other savory items can be made dairy-free on request.
The Giving Pies – They have prolific special diet menus, including a dairy-free, gluten-free pie menu and a vegan pie menu. The options include various types of crumble-topped fruit pies that come in mini pies and full-size pies.
The Halal Shack ⭐️ – This quick serve chain is located on the San Jose State University campus, but it’s open to the public. They offer build-your-own rice bowls, salad bowls, fry bowls, hummus bowls, naanritos, and pita wraps. They have a full allergen menu, and almost everything is dairy-free. At last check, they used no peanuts or tree nuts, and had ample gluten-free and vegan options.
Toastique – They offer dairy-free smoothies, smoothie bowls, collagen lattes, toasts, grab-and-go eats, and even some housemade treats.
Umami Express ⭐️ – They offer a fresh take on east Asian food with a selection of nutritious bowls. Their entire menu is “free of gluten, dairy, peanuts, eggs, fish, shellfish, and mustard.” Walnuts (as a topping) were the only tree nut at last check. They do have a detailed allergen menu.
Vegan Bistro Donuts and Cafe ⭐️ – Thanks to Kim for letting us know about this all-vegan donut shop in downtown San Jose. “The donuts taste just as good (if not better!) than regular donuts!” They offer raised, cake, old-fashioned, and other specialty donuts in a range of flavors. They also serve some tea and coffee drinks.
Veggie Grill ⭐️ – This vegan fast-casual restaurant chain serves burgers, sandwiches, bowls, salads, and plant-based variations on popular dishes. Their selection ranges from fresh and healthy to comfort food. They also have a menu of desserts.
San Leandro
San Mateo
Ben’s Fast Food ⭐️ – This healthy quick serve chain serves nutritious bowls and salads. Their entire menu is “free of gluten, dairy, peanuts, eggs, fish, shellfish, and mustard.” Walnuts (as a topping) were the only tree nut at last check. They do have a detailed allergen menu and vegan options.
Earthbar – This wellness shop also contains a dairy-free juice and smoothie bar, where you can also order vegan waffles and toasts (with various toppings – including almondmilk ricotta), superfood bowls, and coffee drinks.
Lazy Dog – This chain restaurant has a full allergen chart for their modern bar and grill style menu. It also includes a vegan column. They have dairy-free options throughout their menu, including appetizers, salads, Asian-style bowls, seafood, ribs, and plenty of sides. At last check, they also had a dairy-free pie for dessert.
Lotus & Lime ⭐️ – They offer a fresh take on Asian food with a selection of purple rice bowls and salad bowls. Their entire menu is “free of gluten, dairy, peanuts, eggs, fish, shellfish, and mustard.” Cashews (as a topping) were the only tree nut at last check. They do have a detailed allergen menu.
MidiCi Pizza – Their signature Neapolitan dough is light, thin, soft, and chewy, with a high crust, and it’s dairy-free. It’s made purely with a special Neapolitan flour, water, sea salt, and yeast. They also offer dairy-free cheese alternative and vegan sausage, and have several custom order salad options.
Palmita ⭐️ – They serve a quick serve menu of California-style Mexican cuisine. It includes a selection of bowls, house sauces, and sides. Their entire menu is “free of gluten, dairy, peanuts, eggs, fish, shellfish, and mustard.” They also shun tree nuts on their menu, but walnuts might be used on site. They offer additional allergen information and vegan options.
Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.
Umami Express ⭐️ – They offer a fresh take on east Asian food with a selection of nutritious bowls. Their entire menu is “free of gluten, dairy, peanuts, eggs, fish, shellfish, and mustard.” Walnuts (as a topping) were the only tree nut at last check. They do have a detailed allergen menu.
San Rafael
Extreme Pizza – They have a whole menu of vegan signature pizzas, and of course, you can build your own dairy-free pizza. You can also custom order one of their many salads.
San Ramon
Boba Guys – This boba tea chain offers several dairy-free drinks right on their menu, like Korean Banana Milk and Horchata. They also offer dairy-free milk alternatives to make their unique latte boba drinks dairy-free, like the Strawberry Matcha, Ube, and Hojicha Lattes. In fact, most of their drink menu is easily dairy-free.
Earthbar – This wellness shop also contains a dairy-free juice and smoothie bar, where you can also order vegan waffles and toasts (with various toppings – including almondmilk ricotta), superfood bowls, and coffee drinks.
Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.
Salt & Straw – See our Salt & Straw Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Santa Clara
California’s Great America – This amusement park is filled with quick serve restaurants, and they provide special dietary guides for each one. In the park, you can find dairy-free burgers (with vegan options), hot dogs, chicken tenders, burrito bowls, meat entrees, cotton candy, ICEEs, and popcorn.
Din Tai Fung – This is an upscale Taiwanese chain that specializes in Chinese Huaiyang cuisine. They offer a full allergen and special diet chart, and, at last check, all of their savory menu items were dairy-free and all but one of their sweet bao was dairy-free (most are vegan!). They do use milk in some beverage items.
Läderach – These Swiss chocolate shops now offer a full dairy-free and vegan line with various dark and cashewmilk chocolate options. The decadent collection includes bars, all types of barks, and some other confections.
MOD Pizza – See our MOD Pizza Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.
Salt & Straw – See our Salt & Straw Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Teriyaki Madness ⭐️ – This is a great casual spot for a range of teriyaki-style bowls and Asian appetizers. They offer an easy-to-read allergen chart. At last check, everything was dairy-free on the savory menu, except for the crab rangoon.
The Stand ⭐️ – They offer a dairy-free friendly menu (they also have vegan-friendly and gluten-free friendly menus), which includes an array of salads, sandwich and wrap options, hot dogs, a selection of sides, and even lists of topping, bun, and sauce choices.
Santa Cruz
Cat & Cloud – This coffee shop offers treats like vegan coffee cake plus savory breakfast burritos and other light bites. They offer a few types of milk alternatives.
Hula’s Island Grill – See our Monterey listing above – this is their second location. It’s a fun, casual tiki restaurant with a broad menu of pupus, drinks, and entrees. Their menu contains a lot of naturally dairy-free dishes, and they have a separate gluten-free menu.
Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.
Pretty Good Advice – Thanks to Rachel for letting us know about this vegetarian restaurant. They run their own farm in the Santa Cruz mountains, and use the bounty to make plant-based burgers, sandwiches, salads, and more. Most items can be ordered vegan. They also offer dairy-free soft serve.
Staff of Life – This is a natural food grocer that carries a great selection of special diet products, and also offers gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan fresh baked goodies.
Veg on the Edge ⭐️ – Their casual vegan menu is an interesting fusion of West African, American, and Mexican cuisines.
Woodstock Pizza – They have dairy-free and gluten-free pizza options, including Daiya cheese alternative.
Santa Maria
Straw Hat Pizza – This pizzeria offers a vegan-gluten-free crust, a few vegan sauces, and a plethora of toppings. Participating stores have Daiya dairy-free cheese available and a vegan pizza on the menu. According to their allergen information, they also offer dairy-free breaded shrimp, garlic fries, wings (bone in and boneless), fries, onion rings, and other bites. Check in store or online for their current allergen info.
Sausalito
Bean Sprouts Cafe – They are located inside the Bay Area Discovery Museum, and focus on amazing kid-friendly cuisine. Their playful menu boasts options for various special diet needs, including dairy-free, gluten-free, and even vegan.
Sebastopol
Muir’s Tea Room & Coffee Shop ⭐️ – Whether you a tea lover or not, you’ll probably appreciate this 100% vegan establishment. They have high tea with finger sandwiches and pastries galore, but also offer a full coffee bar, and wonderful full lunches and dinners. Gluten-free options are available.
Screamin’ Mimi’s – Their scoop menu includes a big selection of dairy-free sorbets, which can include chocolate, mocha, lavender, and various fruity flavors.
The Nectary ⭐️ – Healthy is the focus at this juice and smoothie bar. They offer an array of house-made milks, superfood smoothies and lattes, water kefir, kombucha, and wellness shots. They also have a relatively petite menu of raw foods and smoothie bowls. Their menu, at last check, was dairy-free and mostly vegan (they do use bee products).
Sonoma
Darling – This local ice cream shop offers scoops of vegan vanilla ice cream and swirls of Dole Whip dairy-free soft sereve.
Sweet Scoops – Their flavors change regularly, but they usually offer a couple dairy-free scoop flavors.
Soquel
Pretty Good Advice – Thanks to Rachel for letting us know about this vegetarian restaurant. They run their own farm in the Santa Cruz mountains, and use the bounty to make plant-based burgers, sandwiches, salads, and more. Most items can be ordered vegan. They also offer dairy-free soft serve.
South Lake Tahoe
Fire + Ice – Janet recommended this restaurant for dairy-free lunch, dinner, and brunch options. It’s a Mongolian BBQ type place, but they offer a global array of flavors. Since you pick your own ingredients, it makes it easy to order without dairy and choose the right sauces. Janet said, “If the grill has already been used or is being used for things that shouldn’t be anywhere near my food, they take mine to the back and cook it in a separate pan and deliver it to my table.”
Sprouts Cafe – The food is fresh, the staff is hopping, and the people keep on coming at this fast casual sandwich, rice bowl, salad, burrito, and breakfast shop. Their menu is mostly vegetarian, but they also offer turkey and tuna (not dairy-free). They have a plethora of vegan and dairy-free options (including dairy-free cheese alternative), and can easily make most menu items dairy-free and even gluten-free upon request. The daily soups are almost always vegan. They also squeeze and blend fresh juices and smoothies, and have soy protein powder and dairy-free milk alternative on the menu.
The Baked Bear – This is an ice cream sandwich shop where you choose the cookies and the ice cream. They offer a daily vegan ice cream flavor (like chocolate chip) and have a couple vegan and gluten-free cookie options.
Sunnyvale
Ben’s Fast Food ⭐️ – This healthy quick serve chain serves nutritious bowls and salads. Their entire menu is “free of gluten, dairy, peanuts, eggs, fish, shellfish, and mustard.” Walnuts (as a topping) were the only tree nut at last check. They do have a detailed allergen menu and vegan options.
Lotus & Lime ⭐️ – They offer a fresh take on Asian food with a selection of purple rice bowls and salad bowls. Their entire menu is “free of gluten, dairy, peanuts, eggs, fish, shellfish, and mustard.” Cashews (as a topping) were the only tree nut at last check. They do have a detailed allergen menu.
Merit Vegan Restaurant ⭐️ – This is a vegan Asian restaurant with some Americanized twists. Their menu is broad, and includes many Vietnamese, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese inspired dishes. But they also serve a big range of desserts, including cheesecake, cupcakes, brownies, and much more.
St. Helena
Gott’s Roadside – Jenna at The Urben Life recommended this as a must stop spot. “It’s great food, a fun atmosphere, and if you sit out front you can catch the Napa Wine Train roll by. I suggest the plant-based impossible burger!” They actually serve a whole menu of beef and Impossible burgers, but you do have to special order them dairy-free or vegan. They offer an egg bun, vegan bun, and lettuce wrap.
Sunnyvale
Palmita ⭐️ – They serve a quick serve menu of California-style Mexican cuisine. It includes a selection of bowls, house sauces, and sides. Their entire menu is “free of gluten, dairy, peanuts, eggs, fish, shellfish, and mustard.” They also shun tree nuts on their menu, but walnuts might be used on site. They offer additional allergen information and vegan options.
Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.
Teriyaki Madness ⭐️ – This is a great casual spot for a range of teriyaki-style bowls and Asian appetizers. They offer an easy-to-read allergen chart. At last check, everything was dairy-free on the savory menu, except for the crab rangoon.
Umami Express ⭐️ – They offer a fresh take on east Asian food with a selection of nutritious bowls. Their entire menu is “free of gluten, dairy, peanuts, eggs, fish, shellfish, and mustard.” Walnuts (as a topping) were the only tree nut at last check. They do have a detailed allergen menu.
Tracy
Straw Hat Pizza – This pizzeria offers a vegan-gluten-free crust, a few vegan sauces, and a plethora of toppings. Participating stores have Daiya dairy-free cheese available and a vegan pizza on the menu. According to their allergen information, they also offer dairy-free breaded shrimp, garlic fries, wings (bone in and boneless), fries, onion rings, and other bites. Check in store or online for their current allergen info.
Turlock
Hummus Republic – Their build-your-own pita, wrap, or bowl menu is filled with dairy-free options. They even offer vegan proteins, and most components are dairy-free (includes hummuses and dressings). They clearly label for vegan and gluten-free guests.
Yogurt Mill – They offer dairy-free soft serve in creamy (made with oat milk), sorbet, and acai varieties. Depending on the day and location, they might have 2 to 5 dairy-free flavor options. They also offer non-dairy fudge sauce and a good selection of toppings.
Visalia
Hummus Republic – Their build-your-own pita, wrap, or bowl menu is filled with dairy-free options. They even offer vegan proteins, and most components are dairy-free (includes hummuses and dressings). They clearly label for vegan and gluten-free guests.
Straw Hat Pizza – This pizzeria offers a vegan-gluten-free crust, a few vegan sauces, and a plethora of toppings. Participating stores have Daiya dairy-free cheese available and a vegan pizza on the menu. According to their allergen information, they also offer dairy-free breaded shrimp, garlic fries, wings (bone in and boneless), fries, onion rings, and other bites. Check in store or online for their current allergen info.
Walnut Creek
Burger Lounge – This SoCal chain serves grass-fed burgers alongside a whole menu of vegan burgers. They offer vegan buns, dairy-free cheese, and bunless paleo and keto options. Select locations (check in advance) offer dairy-free milkshakes and root beer floats made with cashew milk ice cream.
Clean Juice – They make their own cold-pressed cashew milks and offer dairy-free acai bowls, smoothie bowls, smoothies, toasts, and some other eats. Please note that their flatbread wraps (the bread itself) contain dairy, but all other menu items can be ordered dairy-free by omitting the cheese or substituting vegan protein for the whey protein (in the proteins smoothies).
CREAM Nation ⭐️ – Although this is a traditional ice cream sandwich shop, they do offer some vegan goodies. On the menu, you should see at least a couple dairy-free, plant-based ice cream flavors. And to make your dairy-free ice cream sandwich experience complete, they have a nice little selection of vegan cookies. Once your dairy-free dessert is assembled, it can be rolled in or garnished with select dairy-free toppings. Alternatively, you can order scoops, sundaes, shakes, and coffee drinks at this cool spot.
Gott’s Roadside – They have an extensive menu of burgers that you can order with beef, turkey, or vegan Impossible patties. You do need to custom order for dairy-free and vegan, but they do offer a vegan bun and lettuce wrap. Their menu also includes various salads, tacos, poke, and more.
Havana – They serve Cuban food with California influences, and their lunch and dinner menus include quite a few dairy-free options.
MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes – This expanding franchise makes dairy-free burgers with a range of protein, bun, sauce, and topping options. They have a detailed allergen chart to help you order. They also offer vegan, paleo, and gluten-free options.
Pizza My Heart – This Bay Area chain uses Miyoko’s dairy-free cheese and Field Roast meat alternatives to craft a small menu of vegan pizzas. Many other pizzas can be custom ordered dairy-free with a cheese swap.
Rooted Coffee Co ⭐️ – Thank you to Kellie for recommending this vegan coffee shop. She says they have “great coffee, food, and baked goods.” And “their scones are so good I had to ask to confirm they are dairy free!” They have a full menu of milk beverages to choose from, and have a full menu of toasts, salads, yogurt parfaits, gluten-free waffles, and pastries. They say all items can be ordered gluten free.
Sauced BBQ & Spirits – Thank you to Jamie for sharing this recommendation. “They always send their manager and lead cook to our table to discuss the allergy and make sure everything we ordered for my kid is safe. They also hand deliver the food for the person with an allergy separately with gloves on.”
True Food Kitchen – See our True Food Kitchen Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Watsonville
Staff of Life – This is a natural food grocer that carries a great selection of special diet products, and also offers gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan fresh baked goodies.
Straw Hat Pizza – This pizzeria offers a vegan-gluten-free crust, a few vegan sauces, and a plethora of toppings. Participating stores have Daiya dairy-free cheese available and a vegan pizza on the menu. According to their allergen information, they also offer dairy-free breaded shrimp, garlic fries, wings (bone in and boneless), fries, onion rings, and other bites. Check in store or online for their current allergen info.
West Sacramento
MOD Pizza – See our MOD Pizza Dairy-Free Menu Guide for full details.
Teriyaki Madness ⭐️ – This is a great casual spot for a range of teriyaki-style bowls and Asian appetizers. They offer an easy-to-read allergen chart. At last check, everything was dairy-free on the savory menu, except for the crab rangoon.
Williams
Straw Hat Pizza – This pizzeria offers a vegan-gluten-free crust, a few vegan sauces, and a plethora of toppings. Participating stores have Daiya dairy-free cheese available and a vegan pizza on the menu. According to their allergen information, they also offer dairy-free breaded shrimp, garlic fries, wings (bone in and boneless), fries, onion rings, and other bites. Check in store or online for their current allergen info.
Yuba City
Straw Hat Pizza – This pizzeria offers a vegan-gluten-free crust, a few vegan sauces, and a plethora of toppings. Participating stores have Daiya dairy-free cheese available and a vegan pizza on the menu. According to their allergen information, they also offer dairy-free breaded shrimp, garlic fries, wings (bone in and boneless), fries, onion rings, and other bites. Check in store or online for their current allergen info.
Photo from Mr. Dewie’s Cashew Creamery in Albany, Emeryville, and Oakland, California
Restaurant & Grocery Chains found throughout Northern California
Some recommended restaurant and store chains are getting too big for our city listing britches. They have many locations, or are rapidly growing, and you might stumble across them in a number of towns in this state. Click on them for more dairy-free details.
Photo from Proposition Chicken in Lafayette, Menlo Park, Oakland, San Francisco, and San Jose, California
Local Dairy-Free Food & Drink Producers in Northern California
These dairy-free friendly companies don’t have their own retail location, but are in Northern California. So you have a good chance of finding their products at grocery stores, restaurants, and/or other shops in this state. Keep an eye out!
Amy’s – You should have no problem finding their frozen foods in nearly every store in the area. This big, family-run, vegetarian company is located in Petaluma, and make many vegan frozen entrees, pizzas, and more.
Bread SRSLY – This gluten-free sourdough bread company uses traditional methods to ferment their breads for a truly unique taste and experience. Their breads are also vegan and top allergen-free.
Double Rainbow – This San Francisco ice creamery has been making a line of dairy-fee pints for many years. They make soy-based vanilla and mint chip, sorbets, and more recently added an oatmilk ice cream.
Eclipse Foods – This is a plant-based ice cream company that makes “cowlessly creamy” pints without milk, eggs, or tree nuts.
Green Girl Bakeshop – They make plant-based gelato and dairy-free, gluten-free ice cream sandwiches. You can buy their treats in local stores or online.
HumYum – They make confections in Humboldt county, including vegan caramel and chocolate sauces.
Kite Hill – They call Hayward home, but you can find their dairy-free yogurts, dips, cheeses, butter, filled pastas and more in cities throughout America. Nevertheless, you’ll find the best selection in the Bay Area.
Miyoko’s – This Petaluma company is well known for their range of vegan cheese alternatives.
Monterey Gourmet Foods – They make organic frozen dinners with a few plant-based options (like alfredo), and also make a vegan sun-dried tomato pesto.
Ripple Foods – If you’ve been dairy-free for very long, you’ve likely heard of this pea milk maker. They also have half & half, protein shakes, and more.
The Healthy Baking Company – Previously known as “California Suncakes,” this healthy snack maker focuses on vegan, gluten-free bars. They offer a few types, including The Healthy Energy Bar, Coffeehouse Bars, and Maxaroons.
The Inspired Cookie Co – They bake vegan, gluten-free, nut-free cookies and brownies, which are sold in some cafes, packaged in local shops, and shipped to customers nationwide.
Vixen Kitchen – This vegan gelato company is based in Santa Cruz. They make nut-based ice creams, sweetened with maple syrup.
Photo from Yoconut
This Guide is Continuously Updated with Recommendations
We welcome you to recommend other dairy-free friendly restaurants. Leave a comment or contact us and tell us why you like a certain restaurant. Restaurant owners and employees are also invited to reach out and let us know how you welcome dairy-free customers.
Please kindly let us know in the comments if any of these restaurants close. We want to keep this list current for you, but aren’t always notified when a restaurant closes. Let us know and we will quickly update!
This Guide is for Informational Purposes Only
Menus, ingredients, kitchen procedures, management, and restaurants are subject to change at any time. Always read the menu and discuss your dietary needs with the staff before ordering. Make sure that they can accommodate your situation.
There is always a risk for potential cross-contamination of allergens in any commercial kitchen. If cross-contamination is an issue for you, always speak with the manager to ensure that your meal can be safely prepared. Listings here do not guarantee that a restaurant is safe enough for your individual needs. Only you can make that decision.
For More Dairy-Free Guidance, Get Go Dairy Free!
