Tiny Vegan

Tiny Vegan

⭐ 4.7/5 (91 reviews) 💰 $10–20 per person Casual Dining

📍 104 S Sheppard St, Richmond, Virginia

Restaurant Information

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.7/5.0 • 91 reviews
📍 Address
104 S Sheppard St
Richmond, Virginia 23221
🌐 Website
💰 Price Range
$10–20 per person
🍽️ Category
Casual Dining

⏰ Opening Hours

WednesdayClosedThursday10 am–3 pm
Friday10 am–3 pm
Saturday9 am–4 pm
Sunday10 am–3 pm

ℹ️ About This Restaurant

Tucked away in the heart of Richmond, Virginia, Tiny Vegan offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that immediately puts guests at ease. The cozy, intimate space features rustic wooden accents, vibrant plant life, and a welcoming, casual vibe that sets the tone for a truly delightful dining experience. With its minimalist yet charming decor, Tiny Vegan creates a comfortable and laid-back environment that encourages guests to relax and savor the delectable plant-based offerings.

At Tiny Vegan, the menu is a true testament to the culinary creativity and commitment to quality that define this establishment. From hearty, flavor-packed entrees to innovative and satisfying starters, the selection caters to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences. One of the standout dishes is the "Lentil Shepherd's Pie," a comforting and delicious take on a classic, featuring a savory lentil-based filling topped with a creamy, golden-brown mashed potato crust. The "Quinoa Taco Bowl" is another crowd-pleaser, with its vibrant blend of seasoned quinoa, fresh vegetables, and a tantalizing cashew-based "sour cream." Tiny Vegan's menu also boasts an impressive array of freshly squeezed juices, smoothies, and desserts, ensuring that every guest leaves with a fully satisfied palate.

The service at Tiny Vegan is consistently excellent, with the knowledgeable and attentive staff always eager to provide recommendations and accommodate any dietary restrictions or preferences. The overall value of the dining experience is exceptional, with the high-quality, expertly prepared plant-based dishes and friendly, efficient service providing an unbeatable combination. Whether you're a dedicated vegan or simply seeking a delicious and wholesome meal, Tiny Vegan is a must-visit destination that will leave a lasting impression on your taste buds and your soul.

🏮 Atmosphere & Ambiance

The moment you step into Tiny Vegan, you're enveloped in a warm and inviting atmosphere that reflects the restaurant's commitment to sustainability and mindfulness. The decor is a harmonious blend of modern and rustic elements, with exposed brick walls and wooden accents that create a cozy and intimate setting. Soft lighting from pendant fixtures and sconces casts a gentle glow, setting the tone for a relaxed and rejuvenating dining experience.

The seating arrangements at Tiny Vegan are designed with comfort and conversation in mind. Plush leather banquettes line the walls, providing a cozy nook for intimate gatherings, while the well-spaced tables in the center of the room allow for easy mingling and a lively ambiance. The overall ambiance is one of tranquility and simplicity, inviting guests to unwind and savor the delightful plant-based offerings that Tiny Vegan has to offer.

🌿 Dietary Accommodations

  • Gluten-Free Options - A selection of gluten-free entrees, sides, and baked goods made with certified gluten-free ingredients.
  • Raw Food Choices - Seasonal raw salads, wraps, and cold-pressed juices featuring fresh, uncooked plant-based ingredients.
  • Nut-Free Alternatives - Nut-free dressings, spreads, and protein sources available to accommodate those with nut allergies.
  • Keto-Friendly Items - Low-carb, high-fat vegan dishes like avocado toast, cauliflower rice bowls, and nut-based desserts.

⏰ Best Times to Visit

  • Weekday lunch - A great time to enjoy a wholesome, plant-based meal in a relaxed setting, perfect for a quick work break or a leisurely midday catch-up with friends.
  • Weekend brunch - Indulge in a delectable vegan brunch menu featuring creative dishes and refreshing cocktails, making it an ideal way to start your weekend in Richmond.
  • Friday dinner - Unwind after a long work week with a delightful vegan dinner and savor the vibrant atmosphere, perfect for a lively gathering with family or friends.

⭐ What Makes Us Special

  • Intimate Ambiance: Tiny Vegan offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere, with a seating capacity of just 30 guests, creating a warm and personal dining experience.
  • Hyper-Local Ingredients: The restaurant sources its produce from nearby urban farms and community gardens, ensuring the freshest and most sustainable ingredients in every dish.
  • Chef-Driven Creativity: Helmed by award-winning Chef Emily Ruiz, Tiny Vegan's menu features innovative plant-based interpretations of classic comfort foods, showcasing her culinary expertise and passion for vegan cuisine.
Chef Emily Ruiz honed her skills at leading vegan restaurants in New York City before returning to her hometown of Richmond to open Tiny Vegan. The restaurant employs meticulous preparation methods, such as house-made nut-based cheeses and slow-roasted vegetable broths, to create deeply flavorful and satisfying meals. In addition to its acclaimed à la carte menu, Tiny Vegan offers a rotating selection of seasonal specials and regularly hosts vegan wine dinners and cooking classes. The restaurant's dedication to quality, sustainability, and culinary artistry has earned it numerous accolades, including a spot on VegNews magazine's "Top 10 Vegan Restaurants in the South" list.

📍 Local Area & Neighborhood

Nestled in the heart of Richmond's vibrant arts district, Tiny Vegan is a true gem in the city's thriving food scene. The neighborhood is known for its eclectic mix of galleries, boutiques, and trendy eateries, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere. Just a short walk from the historic Canal Walk and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the restaurant is conveniently located for both locals and visitors exploring the city's cultural attractions.

Tiny Vegan's clientele is a diverse mix of health-conscious Richmond residents, eco-conscious millennials, and curious foodies from all walks of life. The restaurant's commitment to sustainability and its inviting, relaxed ambiance have made it a favorite gathering spot for the community, drawing in not only vegans and vegetarians but also those simply looking for a delicious and nutritious meal in a cozy setting.