It's lunch time or after work hours and you find yourself hungry. You want vegan food, plant-forward eats, or just enjoy a good, casual eats. You may want to grab something for pickup, unwind with your laptop and a bite, or just want it delivered to you. Enter Native Foods...the long time fast-casual vegan restaurant, recently turned independently owned.
Dame Dia, a Senegalese born restaurant professional took the plunge, going from the restaurant manager to the restaurant owner. He purchased the downtown Chicago Vegan Restaurant, Native Foods location (218 S. Clark Street, Chicago) that is nestled amongst the skyscrapers and City Hall building. Although it is a high traffic location, Dame's welcoming demeanor and warm greeting he offers to every person that walks through his doors, gives the space much more of your favorite neighborhood spot. You wouldn't even know the lengthy restaurateurial hours he puts in or that he is on his feed 10+ hours a day when you encounter him because he exudes such warm energy every time you come in.
I've been multiple times and every time, find something new that I enjoy. From the burgers, to the salads, to their special menu offerings, you can try something new every time.
This visit, I met up with my girls Niehla of Homegirls Hummus, Tiara of Verse Bekoe Photography and met Beatrice of Busy Bea Travels for the first time. Dame danced towards our table doubled up with dishes, bringing on the vibrant, infectious energy he spreads throughout his restaurant.
Fast Casual Downtown Chicago Vegan Restaurant: Native Foods
We all enjoyed these satisfying plant-based menu items including:
Shrimp Rolls: These bad boys are crunchy on the outside and very shrimp-eske on the inside with not a drop of seafood! I suggest trying these as a starter or side. The dipping sauce is sweet with a slight "twang" and is a tasty addition to the flavor profile & texture of the rolls.
Lemon Garlic Chick'n Kale Caesar Salad: I really enjoyed this salad. The lemon garlic marinated kale, with the creamy, tangy Caesar dressing, buttery croutons, along with the well seasoned (ridiculously chicken-like) faux chicken breast was super satisfying. This menu item was brand new upon our visit, so if you're a Caesar salad lover like I am, this is definitely a winner.
Mushroom Stroganoff: This brand new special menu item is super savory and comforting with the creamy mashed potatoes, topped with well seasoned veggies and creamy mushrooms. We all enjoyed the flavors and seasoning of this dish.
Check out the full video review on my YouTube page and below. Have you been to this Native Foods location?
The vegan food scene in Chicago is thriving, and Native Foods is a perfect example of this! Their plant-based dishes are not only delicious but also showcase how vibrant and creative vegan cuisine can be. If you’re in the restaurant business, creating a welcoming and organized space is just as important as the food. A great way to elevate the dining experience is through attention to detail, such as using reserved signs for special tables or events. For anyone interested, kyivworkshop offers a variety of options to help you add that perfect touch to your space!