I’m not vegan, but I personally think Vegan Plate in Lincoln Park is one of the best bang-for-your-buck restaurants with a menu to satisfy anyone’s diet. I discovered Vegan Plate when I lived in this neighborhood and didn’t think much of it initially. Then, a friend of mine invited me to dine there and now it’s one of our favorite go-to’s.

The dish that’s not to miss is their curry combo plate, which comes with a bed of fresh rice, two spring rolls, a side salad, and either a red, yellow, or green curry covering an assortment of vegetables. I like pouring the curry and vegetables over the rice and letting the flavors absorb all together. However, they also have other Thai favorites with vegan meats, though you wouldn’t necessarily be able to tell the difference. Soy chicken covered with Thai spices tastes like the real thing.

Sometimes during the summer, I’ll take a long walk and get Vegan Plate to go, which feels like a perfect hearty, healthy dish to fuel the body after a stroll. You’ll also want to wash everything down with the sweet but not too sweet Thai iced coffee. Other perks about this place are the friendly staff and the large amount of food you get for little cost.