When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Vertical Diner
Why Vertical Diner is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Vertical Diner in Portland stands out as a fantastic plant-based dining destination that combines classic diner comfort with innovative vegan cuisine, making it an excellent spot to meet up with friends. The inviting atmosphere features cozy booths that create a welcoming and casual ambiance, ideal for socializing over a meal. The menu offers a diverse range of flavorful options that appeal to vegans and non-vegans alike, with highlights including the signature "Tender Tigers," which are crispy, buffalo-style vegan bites served with house-made sauces, as well as generous portions of savory pancakes, burgers, and scratch-made desserts such as decadent carrot cake and tiramisu. The diner also prides itself on its homemade condiments, including seitan and ketchup, contributing to the fresh and distinctive flavors throughout the menu. With multiple options tailored to different dietary needs, including gluten-free choices, Vertical Diner caters to a wide audience. Its reputation for great taste paired with reasonable prices makes it a practical and enjoyable meetup spot. Moreover, the availability of cocktails, wines, beer, and large socially distanced seating enhances the overall experience, allowing groups of friends to relax and enjoy themselves in a vibrant yet comfortable setting. The diner’s focus on quality and community has helped it maintain a strong local appeal and establish itself as a must-visit destination for those seeking a satisfying all-day brunch, lunch, or dinner in Portland.
Here's what people think of Vertical Diner
As of recent, Vertical Diner holds a 4.5-star rating based on 3343 reviews.
Reviews from customers of Vertical Diner reveal a generally positive experience with a 4.5-star rating from over 3,300 reviews, highlighting the diner’s popularity and consistent quality. Positive reviews frequently praise the flavorful and well-prepared vegan dishes, such as the tender, crispy "Tender Tigers," diverse menu options, and sizeable portion sizes. Many diners appreciate the creative house-made sauces and the indulgent desserts like carrot cake and tiramisu, noting that these offerings successfully satisfy cravings that are often challenging to fulfill at vegan restaurants. The atmosphere is often described as adorable and cozy, accentuating its appeal as a friendly and inviting space for gatherings. Customers also value the reasonable pricing for the generous portions and the accommodating service, which together make the dining experience both enjoyable and affordable. However, some negative reviews mention that the diner can feel chaotic and less inviting at times, with occasional concerns about service efficiency and the flavor intensity of certain menu items, such as the messiness of the vegan cheesesteak. While the iced chai drinks received mixed opinions on taste, overall, patrons tend to leave satisfied with their meals and eager to return. The balance of positive culinary experiences and minor operational criticisms results in a strong reputation for Vertical Diner, securing its status as a beloved vegan dining institution in Portland with room for continued growth and refinement.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kristen
The Tofu Benedict is INCREDIBLE! The taste and texture of it is just perfect. The tempeh bacon was so sweet and had such a good texture. I wish I could have ordered two of these!!!! We had breakfast/brunch twice here, and also got takeout to bring on the plane back home. We tried The Mountain, The Avalanche, and got the Breaded Chikun Sandwich and Barbecue Tigers to go. Everything was fantastic and super delicious! Service was fast and friendly, and the atmosphere was great. Had a great experience at Vertical Diner!
Bonnie Million
I had a lentil burger spicy fries and salad… I have to say I was surprised how much bigger the portions were than I was expecting them to be. My burger did fall apart but not to say it wasn’t delicious and filling maybe first time in history I didn’t finish a burger even if it was just bun and tomato left..there were a lot of flies around which wasn’t appealing but meh I’d definitely like to go back
Anisa Kastle
An absolute dream to dine here for dinner and breakfast while passing through. This is hands down the best vegan food I’ve ever had. The cheese sauce and gravy were exquisite. Lisa was such a fantastic help and recommended the chai milkshake which was SO bomb. As a vegan, this is what dreams are made of. Thank you so much for a wonderful experience 🌱
Travis Vallejo
First off I want to make it clean I am not a Vegan and wanted to try an all vegan restaurant for breakfast. I’m sure their food is much better for vegans the key demographic they cater to. Service was fantastic everyone was very friendly and talkative. The overall vibe felt great. So I was told their biscuits & gravy are a hit so I got them plus a basic breakfast dish including potatoes and what was obviously now eggs or sausage. The biscuits & gravy were indeed delicious full flavor and served hot. The potatoes were great and that’s where I was done. I tried the makeshift eggs and didn’t like the taste and tried their tofu sausage patty and didn’t like the taste. The flavoring was different and I just couldn’t adapt. I assume those who are into that kind of food would enjoy it much more and are used to the particular flavor. I’ll continue to enjoy my bacon and eggs the way I like them but if I ever go vegan this place will be a weekly meal. 🫡 Respectfully
Sam Finlayson
Casual diner set-up, booths and tables, covered outdoor seating on metal tables and chairs. Prompt service, hip atmosphere. Lots of great variety on the menu, including an all day breakfast menu. We had the California Burrito, which was excellent, and a mango mocktail that was good. The Mac and Cheese gave my non-vegan wife renewed confidence in vegan cheese. The fudge Brownie Sunday we shared for dessert was outstanding. Will definitely get the Sunday next time, too — the highlight of a very good meal.
How to reach Vertical Diner
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Why Vertical Diner may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Vertical Diner with your friends?
Gathering your friends at Vertical Diner is an excellent choice because this vibrant, welcoming restaurant offers a unique dining experience that blends exceptional food quality, inclusive atmosphere, and communal spirit. With an impressive 4.5-star rating based on over 3,300 reviews, Vertical Diner has earned a strong reputation, especially among vegan and plant-based diners. It’s not just the food—though that’s a big draw—but the entire vibe that makes it special. The place radiates a casual yet hip energy, ideal for relaxed socializing where you don’t have to worry about formalities or stuffiness. Whether your group consists of devoted vegans, curious foodies, or friends with diverse dietary preferences, Vertical Diner caters generously with an extensive, creative menu that keeps breakfast all day and packs comforting, soulful flavors in every dish. The staff’s enthusiasm and personable service boost the communal feel, making everyone feel right at home. This environment encourages long conversations over well-crafted meals, perfect for meetups or celebrations. You and your friends will leave not only satisfied but also uplifted by the positive and friendly atmosphere that’s hard to find elsewhere.
What activities can you enjoy at Vertical Diner for group meetups?
Vertical Diner is primarily a restaurant, but its design and offerings make it a lively social hub for groups that want to combine great food with enjoyable activities. First and foremost, the extensive all-day breakfast and lunch menu invites you and your friends to savor a variety of vegan comfort foods—think fluffy pancakes, tofu scrambles, savory sandwiches like the famous meatless Reuben, and house-made sauces. Sharing these delicious plates encourages communal dining, where tasting and swapping dishes become an interactive experience. The vibrant, hip atmosphere buzzes with a casual energy, making it an excellent place for conversations ranging from lighthearted catch-ups to meaningful discussions.
The venue often displays a friendly, community-oriented spirit among local diners and vegan restaurant enthusiasts, fostering a shared culture you and your friends can feel part of. Although it’s not a dedicated event space, Vertical Diner’s layout accommodates small to medium-sized groups comfortably, encouraging friendly mingling. Some visitors enjoy using the afternoon hours for relaxed brunch meetups or early dinner gatherings after a day of activities elsewhere in Salt Lake City. The friendly staff add to the experience by being knowledgeable and genuinely attentive, often engaging with guests to enhance the communal vibe. Moreover, the diner’s proximity to other local venues makes it an ideal starting or ending point for exploring the neighborhood together.
Why is Vertical Diner perfect for a group meetup?
Vertical Diner excels as a meeting place for groups due to its combination of memorable, flavorful food, a broad menu of plant-based options, and a relaxed, hip environment that welcomes all kinds of diners. For groups searching for inclusive dining, it offers the rare advantage of catering exclusively to vegan and vegetarian diets without compromising taste or variety. This thoughtful curation means that no matter who is in your group—whether vegan, vegetarian, or simply adventurous eaters—everyone finds something delicious to enjoy. The breakfast-all-day concept is ideal for groups that want flexibility in timing and choice, allowing late risers and early birds to dine together conveniently.
The social ambiance is another key strength. Its laid-back vibe combined with contemporary decor stimulates both casual chatter and more involved conversations. The staff serve not only food but warmth and personality, which makes groups feel valued rather than just another party. Additionally, the diner’s reputation within the vegan and larger Salt Lake City community adds an element of cultural connection, as the business is known for supporting and advertising other local vegan places, cultivating an inspiring cooperative spirit that group diners can be proud to participate in.
What kinds of food can you share that make meetings memorable?
At Vertical Diner, the menu is thoughtfully crafted to showcase hearty, flavorful vegan dishes that invite sharing and exploration. You and your friends can order classics like the “Avalanche” breakfast plate, featuring tofu scramble, pancakes, potatoes, and sautéed mushrooms—a perfect way to share comfort-food nostalgia with a plant-based twist. The house-made Reuben sandwich is a standout, offering layers of savory, smoky plant-based corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melted cheese on toasted marble rye, ideal for slicing and sharing.
There’s also French toast that doubles as a dessert, perfect for ending your meal on a sweet note while still fitting a plant-based lifestyle. For those who prefer lunch fare, options like tofu scramble burritos smothered in vegan gravy or mac and cheese burgers combine familiar indulgent flavors with creative, healthy profiles. Sharing these dishes allows your group to compare favorites, introduce one another to new flavors, and enjoy communal tasting—a bonding experience that makes mealtime both fun and memorable.
Does Vertical Diner have any challenges for groups, and how are they handled?
Like any popular spot, Vertical Diner experiences busy periods that could affect group visits. Some customers have reported slower service or longer waits, especially during peak times, and on occasion, the lack of air conditioning has been a concern in warmer months. While these are valid points to consider, many others note that the quality of food and the friendliness of the staff help ease any discomfort or delay. Groups planning to dine here would benefit from arriving during off-peak hours or making a reservation if possible to avoid long waits.
Despite occasional challenges, the diner’s strong commitment to hospitality and making guests feel welcomed often shines through, with staff attentive to guests’ needs and personally engaging with visitors to ensure the best experience possible. The community-oriented culture at Vertical Diner, including visible support from local vegan businesses, contributes to a sense of goodwill and patience from diners, making it easier to weather minor inconveniences together as a group.
What other benefits does Vertical Diner provide for hosting meetups?
Beyond the food and atmosphere, Vertical Diner offers additional benefits that appeal to groups organizing social get-togethers. Its location within Salt Lake City places it near cultural and entertainment venues, allowing groups to combine dining with other leisure activities such as movie nights, gallery visits, or a stroll around nearby neighborhoods. The diner’s vegan focus means hosting here supports environmentally friendly and health-conscious dining choices, something increasingly valued by modern groups who want their meetups to align with conscious living principles.
The diner also fosters a sense of inclusivity that respects various dietary needs and preferences, so friends and family with allergies, ethical food choices, or medical dietary restrictions can gather comfortably without the stress of limited options. Finally, the casual and hip vibe gives groups latitude to customize their meetup tone: from lively celebrations to quiet brunches, Vertical Diner adapts easily to different social dynamics while consistently delivering delicious, wholesome food.
These aspects combine to make Vertical Diner an outstanding venue for group dining: a place where exceptional vegan comfort food, rich variety, inviting atmosphere, and community spirit create the ideal setting to rally with friends or family.