18 Best Vegan Restaurants near Antioch

“Alex's Open Mic Coffee And Tea House is the beating heart of Antioch, wrapped in espresso aroma and pure creative electricity.
You step inside and immediately feel like you just crossed into a place that actually gets community. Not the fake, corporate buzzword version, but the real thing, built drip by drip, song by song, cup by damn cup.

The coffee hits with purpose. Smooth, strong, balanced, and brewed by people who clearly give a damn about the craft. None of that burnt-tire bitterness you get at the chain spots. This stuff is alive. Whether you grab a classic pour-over, a latte that could convert the non-believers, or one of their signature drinks, everything tastes intentional and dialed in.

The tea selection? Massive. Fragrant, clean, and curated like someone actually thought about what humans enjoy. You smell the leaves before they brew them and suddenly you are already halfway in love.

The vibe is the real magic trick.
It is cozy without being sleepy. Artsy without being pretentious. Warm without being syrupy. It is the kind of place where people actually talk, create, write, laugh, think, and exist without rushing their souls out the door.

When the music starts, the whole room transforms.
The Open Mic nights are not filler entertainment. They are a showcase of raw humanity. You hear power. You hear vulnerability. You hear people taking chances and owning their moment. And the crowd? Supportive like a damn village. Nobody judges. Everybody listens. You can feel the energy bounce around the room like a spark that refuses to die.

The staff treats you like a regular even if it is your first time walking in. Friendly, fast, genuine, and on top of everything without hovering.

If Antioch has a creative sanctuary, this is it.
If Antioch has a living room for the whole town, this is it.
If Antioch has a soul, chances are it is drinking a latte right here.

The Open Mic Coffee And Tea House is more than a café. It is a home base for anyone chasing caffeine, connection, or a moment of damn peace in a chaotic world.“

“Great place to go before a Sunday matinee at the PM&L Theatre!“

“We went there for the first time over the weekend. Everything was delicious and everyone was so nice! We’ll be back.“

“Amazing vegan entrees, smoothies and desserts.“

“We live 2.5 hours south of Lake Villa, but we were meeting some friends from Florida for dinner. They were in the area for their grandson’s graduation from Great Lakes Naval Academy. Found this place via Google and it had great reviews, with good reason. We wish we lived closer because it would be a favorite for sure. Probably the best bruschetta and lasagna I’ve had in a very long time. Everyone loved their entrees. We tried multiple pasta dishes and the pizza. Prices were very reasonable and our service was exceptional. Excellent dining experience all around. Highly recommend.“

“I stop at Hayashi’s for lunch on a Saturday. Only one table was occupied, so I got a seat right away. The menu offered a wide selection of items to choose from.
I ordered two of the special rolls and a green tea, and they arrived at the table promptly. The rolls were good but not outstanding.
I went to the women's bathroom and found it needed some cleaning, although it was spacious.
Hayashi has very good service, a special menu, and is well-decorated. They just need to make their rolls extraordinary.“

“Food was wonderful. Staff was friendly and helpful. Location was great. Portions are large.“

“My wife and I have become a little picky with our restaurant selection but this place was great and the food was fresh, it has fancy atmosphere with decent pricing. We have come a couple of times with my wife for their lunch specials and they are the best. Pricing is very fair for what you get. We had the 2 sushi roll option and I had the Chicken pad Thai which was great. The server was a little serious and dry but it's been great every time.

Definitely recommend it.“

“I ordered food for takeout. The app was easy to use. My food was ready at the time I requested. I was greeted when I arrived and my food was hot. I really enjoy the chicken bowl and chicken potstickers. It appears they have vegetarian options available for those who prefer that. I also feel they have a good rewards program.“

“😀Great food, however, the “build your own burger“was a disappointment. The onions tasted bitter and very salty. I got the worst case of heartburn from this burger! OMG. Otherwise, everything else is top quality! Be careful when ordering this “build your own burger.”🍔 I’ve never tasted onions so bad, and seem to be imbedded into the meat that tasted so bitter and awful salty. Too bad because in my opinion, all other dishes are superb! Susan Lee Dzialo“

“My favorite place to eat in Grayslake and probably Lu even Lake County. I have been a customer for years and finally placed my first catering order for my daughter’s birthday party, the process was simple and easy. Pick up was fast and speedy. All the guests LOVED the sandwiches and pasta salad and the presentation was beautiful! Plus I got to try some of my favorite sandwiches and labrettis in smaller portions. I can’t recommend them enough!!“

“Came here after a long day of walking at the nearby amusement park. Place was not very crowded and we were able to order immediately and sit down. I ordered a mod pizza with several custom toppings. Pizza came out relatively fast, about 15 minutes, and were very warm. Pizza came out delicious and perfectly cooked. Pizza definitely filled me up fully. Overall, strongly recommend for a delicious pizza!“

“Good fast casual food. Huge spuds 🥔, great sandwiches/soup/salads, & sweet tea.“

“I don't know how many different ways to cook and spice pizza are out there. It seems pretty basic to me. But for some reason, this place has the best tasting pizza around. I get sausage, bacon, pineapple and jalapeño and it is like a flavor explosion to my senses. It's also a nice place to take the family and sit down and laugh and chill. Always friendly, and always a good time with good food.“

“Food was good, mu daughter was amazed of sa fan andvthe decorations“

“Friendly and conginial wait staff !“

“Food Review: Robin Hood – Gurnee, IL

Nestled in the heart of Gurnee, Robin Hood may not yet be the most buzzed-about spot online—but what it might lack in web presence, it surely makes up for in character and service. From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere felt like a well-loved local gem: warm lighting, congenial chatter, and a sense of community that’s rare to find.

But what truly made the evening shine was our server, Brianna. Attentive without hovering, she struck that rare balance of offering recommendations, anticipating refills, and knowing when to leave us to enjoy our meal. Her genuine warmth set the tone for the whole evening.

Brianna checked in at just the right times, with a refreshing sincerity—you could tell she cared. When I asked about a dish’s preparation, her response was knowledgeable and enthusiastic, as if she’d be excited for you to try it too.

In short: Robin Hood in Gurnee might be easy to overlook online, but it’s a place where thoughtful service meets solid, satisfying food. If Brianna’s energy is any indication, this is the kind of “hidden favorite” that deserves more recognition“

“Salutes is one of my family’s favorite restaurants in Lake County! We especially like their salad dressing!“