When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Native Foods
Why Native Foods is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Native Foods is a pioneering fast-casual vegan restaurant chain that offers a vibrant and inviting atmosphere perfect for meeting up with friends. Founded in 1994 in Palm Springs, California, it has grown into a beloved culinary destination with locations in California, Colorado, and Illinois. Native Foods specializes in delicious, wholesome plant-based meals crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, appealing to vegans, vegetarians, and anyone looking for flavorful, environmentally friendly dining options. Their menu is diverse and inspired, featuring innovative dishes like the Oklahoma Bacon Cheeseburger, Caribbean Jerk Kale Salad, and house-made vegan cheeses and seitan. The restaurant also caters to kids with tasty options such as Chicken Nuggets and Mac & Cheese, making it a welcoming place for families and groups. Beyond great food, Native Foods is committed to sustainability and animal welfare, creating a movement that resonates through its employee-owned and operated locations. The ambiance, combined with friendly service and a commitment to quality, makes it an excellent choice for social gatherings that embrace a healthier, eco-conscious lifestyle. Guests can also find refreshing beverages, including Watermelon Fresca and Lavender Lemonade, and inventive desserts like Cream Cheese Carrot Cupcakes. Native Foods celebrates its legacy of taste and sustainability, inviting patrons to enjoy delicious plant-based cuisine while supporting a positive community impact.
Here's what people think of Native Foods
As of recent, Native Foods holds a 4.4-star rating based on 2547 reviews.
Customer reviews of Native Foods overwhelmingly reflect appreciation for the quality and variety of its plant-based menu, with many highlighting how the restaurant successfully appeals both to vegans and non-vegans alike. Positive feedback frequently praises the flavorful and innovative dishes, the welcoming and casual atmosphere, and accommodating service. Reviewers often note that Native Foods is a reliable spot for satisfying vegan comfort food, with standout items such as their seitan-based dishes and creative salads receiving commendations. The fresh ingredients and well-crafted vegan cheeses and sauces also earn high marks. On the flip side, some negative reviews mention occasional inconsistencies in food preparation or wait times, and a few guests comment on menu prices being on the higher side compared to typical fast-casual eateries. A few reviews note that certain locations have closed or undergone changes, which has caused some disappointment among regular patrons. Nonetheless, the overall consensus is strongly positive, with most guests recommending Native Foods for both casual meetups and those seeking hearty, plant-based meals. The balanced feedback underscores Native Foods’ commitment to quality and service while highlighting areas for ongoing improvement. This balanced perspective reaffirms Native Foods as a go-to destination for delicious and sustainable vegan dining that fosters social connections.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Sonali Mehta
A fully vegan place that’s clean, cozy, and has a friendly staff. They offer a few no-onion, no-garlic options, which we really appreciated. I absolutely loved their chili soup—just wish the portion was a bit larger. Overall, great food in good quantity — we truly enjoyed our brunch experience! Did not like their shrimp, shrimp dish, and mac & cheese, therefore four stars.
Daniel Stratman
What a perfect welcome to Chicago! Native Foods was our first meal after arriving, and it set a fantastic tone. We absolutely loved everything we ordered: the Buddha Bowl, Thai Chili Brussels Sprouts, Shrimp Rolls, and Kale Chick'n Caesar Salad were all fresh and delicious. Beyond the great food, the fast and friendly service was much appreciated, especially after travel, and the convenient location was a huge plus. Highly recommend for a healthy and satisfying meal – a fantastic start to our trip!
Jeffe Yang
my favorite spot for work lunch. it's my little oasis away from the office -- calm music, clean and spacious environment, absolutely DELICIOUS vegan food and kind service. there's an order kiosk up front so you just place your order and seat yourself. the manager, Mr. Dame, is always with the team, working hard, and attentive without being suffocating. the portions are generous and filling. I keep devouring my meals before taking a photo, but I took photos of the matcha lavender latte and vanilla rose latte I got from the pop-up Woke Soul Coffee, who is there every Wednesday and Thursday with delicious homemade syrups. highly recommend if you're vegan and looking for a solid meal.
T Slush
A good vegan restaurant is hard to find. Native Foods is one that stands out. Fresh and delicious, with plenty of options. Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich with a side of chili hit the spot....Mmm, good stuff!
Justin Vizaro
Great food, fair prices, deep menu. Great to see good vegan food in downtown chicago. Senegal trio: 10/10 Meatball sub: 10/10 - a little heavy on truffle Chicken tendies: 8/10 - ordered buffalo and got thai chili, but it was fine Shrimp: 7/10 but the sauce is incredible Fries: 9/10 - they got the good ones Ranch: 6/10
How to reach Native Foods
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Website: None
Why Native Foods may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Native Foods with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a meal at Native Foods is an excellent choice because it combines delicious, wholesome food with a welcoming, vibrant atmosphere tailored for groups of all kinds. Native Foods shines as a clean and health-conscious dining destination, offering an impressive plant-based menu that appeals not only to vegans and vegetarians but also to those simply seeking fresh, flavorful dishes. The restaurant’s reputation for fresh, made-to-order meals prepared with organic and locally grown ingredients means everyone in your group can indulge guilt-free without sacrificing taste. Moreover, the casual yet lively environment fosters easy conversation and comfort—perfect for a relaxed meetup or a celebration. Whether your group includes friends with diverse dietary preferences or family members of varying ages, Native Foods provides options that accommodate everyone gracefully. The friendly service and taste-tested dishes ensure that your gathering feels personal and well-catered, helping diners bond over food that delights both the palate and the health-conscious mind.
Choosing Native Foods also supports a local and expanding chain that prioritizes sustainability and healthy living, which adds an extra layer of meaning to your gathering. The ambiance is casual but thoughtfully designed to accommodate both small and larger groups, making it an ideal backdrop for catching up, sharing laughs, and creating lasting memories. In addition to the quality of food and atmosphere, Native Foods often features seasonal specials and comforting plant-based interpretations of classic favorites, keeping the experience fresh and exciting. This makes rallying here not just another meal but a memorable outing that everyone in your circle will appreciate and look forward to repeating.
What activities can you enjoy at Native Foods and why is it perfect for group meetups?
Native Foods is more than just a place to eat—it offers a variety of activities and settings that make group meetups easy, enjoyable, and flexible. Primarily, the restaurant offers a comfortable dining experience with ample seating that can accommodate groups of various sizes, whether you want a cozy table for a few friends or a larger party space for family gatherings. Many locations have a casual counter-order system paired with table service that helps streamline your group’s ordering while ensuring attentive service. This balance allows groups to customize their experience, whether you prefer quick service or a leisurely lunch or dinner.
For activity-oriented groups, Native Foods presents an excellent opportunity for food discovery and shared culinary experiences. Groups can sample a variety of dishes together, sharing plates such as the Red Curry Tofu Bowl or the Kale Macro Bowl, which are highly praised for their taste and creative use of plant-based ingredients. This shared tasting experience naturally creates conversation, nostalgia, and connection over flavors, sparking conversations about health, lifestyle choices, and personal favorites. Additionally, Native Foods often offers unique beverages like fresh fountain drinks or refreshing options such as watermelon-mint fresca, providing something special to accompany your meals and elevate the dining experience.
Beyond just eating, many Native Foods locations have outdoor dining options, perfect for enjoying good weather together. This space allows groups to comfortably engage in conversations or even celebrate special occasions with a more relaxed, open-air vibe. The family-friendly environment encourages bringing along kids, with menu options designed to please diverse palates and dietary needs. For those who prefer to take the food home, Native Foods is take-out friendly, allowing groups to order in advance for gatherings outside the restaurant space. This flexibility makes the restaurant adaptable to your preferred style of meetup.
How does Native Foods’ menu cater to diverse tastes and dietary preferences within a group?
One of Native Foods’ greatest strengths is its extensive menu that caters to a broad spectrum of dietary preferences, making it an excellent choice when dining with a diverse group. The menu is entirely plant-based, yet it appeals widely to vegans, vegetarians, and omnivores alike because of its creative, comfort-food-driven approach to vegan cuisine. With dishes such as burgers featuring seitan-based BBQ brisket, meatball subs made with plant protein, and flavorful bowls like the Rockin' Moroccan Bowl, there is something to satisfy any craving. These offerings blend familiar flavors with innovative ingredients, encouraging everyone to try something new without feeling out of place.
The menu is also carefully designed to be health-conscious. Many dishes are made with organic and locally sourced produce, emphasizing freshness and nutrition while avoiding heaviness or excessive oils and salt. This deliberation means even your most health-minded friends can enjoy a meal feeling aligned with their wellness goals. Side dishes like crisp kale salads or the surprisingly indulgent peanut butter parfait dessert add layers of flavor and texture that complete your meal experience.
Native Foods also accommodates special dietary needs beyond veganism, such as gluten-free options and allergy-conscious preparations. This inclusiveness further enhances the group dining experience by reducing worry about who can or cannot eat certain dishes. Everyone in your group can indulge confidently, helping keep the focus on conversation and connection rather than dietary restrictions.
What makes the atmosphere of Native Foods inviting and conducive to social gatherings?
The atmosphere at Native Foods strikes an ideal balance between casual and inviting, making it a top choice for social gatherings. The design of the spaces in various locations often includes comfortable seating, warm lighting, and a vibrant, lively energy without feeling noisy or chaotic. You can expect a setting that encourages chatting and laughter, perfect for friends catching up or families celebrating special moments.
The décor itself typically reflects a modern, earthy aesthetic that aligns with the restaurant’s plant-based philosophy—there is a natural, wholesome vibe that permeates the space, subconsciously promoting relaxation and good moods. Outdoor patios available at some locations allow diners to soak up sunshine or enjoy the evening air, further enhancing the communal feel. This outdoor component is especially beneficial for larger gatherings or events where a little more space is desired.
Native Foods’ staff contributes significantly to the warm atmosphere. Reviewers consistently praise the friendly and attentive service, noting how staff help create a positive, welcoming environment. Whether it’s answering questions about menu ingredients or personalizing recommendations, the team ensures every guest feels attended to and comfortable. This aspect is key when hosting groups, as smooth service reduces stress and allows more time for socializing.
How does Native Foods support a sustainable and health-conscious lifestyle for groups?
Using Native Foods as a venue for your next meetup also underscores a commitment to sustainability and health that many modern diners appreciate. The restaurant prides itself on aligning food choices with environmental responsibility—offering 100% plant-based meals reduces the carbon footprint traditionally associated with animal agriculture, making it a greener choice for those concerned about the planet. This shared value can deepen group conversations and connections, creating a meaningful experience beyond the meal itself.
Native Foods emphasizes organic and locally grown produce whenever possible, supporting local farmers and reducing the environmental impact of food transportation. This focus on quality ingredients provides peace of mind for groups prioritizing health and wellness. Many diners express appreciation that Native Foods does not compromise flavor or enjoyment for healthfulness, demonstrating that sustainable eating can also be delicious and satisfying.
Moreover, the restaurant offers comfort-food favorites made with mindful substitutions, ensuring guests do not feel deprived or limited—perfect for encouraging friends or families to explore healthier eating habits together. Hosting a meetup here signals a thoughtful choice that values wellbeing, fostering inspiration and dialogue around nutrition and sustainability in an inviting, accessible way.
In summary, Native Foods offers a perfect balance of delicious, healthful, and environmentally responsible cuisine served in a friendly, comfortable setting. Its accommodating menu, flexible ordering and seating options, and warm atmosphere make it uniquely well suited for group meetups, whether casual or celebratory. Gathering at Native Foods is more than sharing a meal; it is an opportunity to bond over shared values and tastes in a welcoming space that everyone can enjoy.