VEGAN FRIENDLY MERCED
After previously living in this town for 7 years as a vegan, I know the restaurant scene here inside and out. I am not going to lie, finding vegan friendly options here is tough but here is my best effort to hook you up.
Top 11 vegan friendly list, starts now:
1) 88 Bao Bao - 3564 G St, Merced, CA 95340 - (209) 749-2114
This just might have the most options for us vegans. Try the greens beans, red bean buns and vegetable rice noodles and you won’t go wrong!
2) Sushi Cuisine - 3544 G St, Merced, CA 95340 - (209) 723-2478
With The option to get one of 3 vegan rolls or to make up your own, you’re already off to a good start. Sides like seaweed salad, edamame, tempura vegetables and even vegan friendly ramen give you plenty of dining options.
3) Thai Cuisine 2 - 779 E Yosemite Ave G, Merced, CA 95348 - (209) 726-0334
There is an entire and large vegetarian section on this menu BUT you have to make sure to ask for your dishes with no fish sauce to make sure they are vegan. Also, the flavors of the dishes can vary greatly depending on the chef.
4) Kind Neighbor - Currently moving locations, new location unknown
If I am honest, these are not my favorite smoothies and juices but they do help to kick the craving for something refreshing and healthy. They also have chia pudding & overnight oats which are both very tasty. Lastly, they have avocado toast but again, not my favorite, it is VERY “bready” but better than going hungry.
5) Taste of Little India - 1052 W Main St, Merced, CA 95340 - (209) 722-2230
Tons of vegetarian option and a handful of vegan option on the menu as well. The staff is really helpful in directing you to the vegan options, just ask.
6) Turmeric - 731 E Yosemite Ave ste c, Merced, CA 95340 - (209) 383-1900
Another indian restaurant option with absolutely delicious flavor. Again, ask the staff what is vegan friendly and they will point you in the right direction.
7) Little Oven Pizza - 433 W Main St, Merced, CA 95340 - (209) 233-9829
Ok so this place has amazing pizza with very unique topping options. You will have to call ahead and order and entire pie if you want a vegan option but if you can gather up a couple of friends to join you, I highly recommend you share a vegan pizza here. Basically, you will get a great crust, delicious sauce, toppings of your choice and no cheese. Worth it!
8) El Huarache - 3115 R St, Merced, CA 95348 - (209) 723-1488
Merced is FULL of delicious Mexican food but NOT vegan Mexican food. Most Mexican restaurants here use lard in their beans and rice, leaving us unable to eat just about anything. At this place though, the offer whole beans as an option so you can order a side of rice and beans, sautéed veggies, guacamole and a side of corn tortillas for a delicious meal! You can also order their burritos supreme, without cream and add crinkle fries for a really decadent treat!
9)Pretty Good Burger - 439 W Main St, Merced, CA 95340 - (209) 626-5088
Full Vegan burger options. Definitely the spot to kick a burger craving.
10) Houa Khong 2 - 3518 G St, Merced, CA 95340 - (209) 723-2308
Hands down the best papaya Salad I’ve had, just make sure to ask for it without fish sauce. Pair it with sticky rice and you’re in for a major treat! There are so many vegan friendly dishes here, again, just be sure to ask for them without fish sauce.
11) Chipotle - 3110 R St, Merced, CA 95348 - (209) 722-7488
I hate to even put a chain restaurant on here but like I said, the options are limited so I kinda have to. We all know the Chipotle menu, so enough said here.