It is a rare treat these days to discover an all vegan and gluten free restaurant, especially in Texas of all places! But there are in fact 3 all vegan and fully gluten free restaurants that are also woman and minority-owned.
We’re honored to highlight these 3 one-of-a-kind eateries: Vegan Avenue, Plantology, and Kind Burgers all located in San Antonio, Texas and run by a passionate team alongside the main owner, Griselda Munoz. Their mission for all of their vegan restaurants is to inspire people to choose a healthier, greener and compassionate lifestyle through plant-based eating.
We had the pleasure of interviewing Lexi McCaffrey, the team lead/Social Media Manager of all 3 concepts. Here’s what we discussed, specifically about the impact of Plantology: {Q & A Interview below}
Q: How long has Plantology been open and what was the mission statement for the restaurant? Of course being all vegan and gluten free, your aim is to serve those with allergen concerns, but what else was the motivator for your opening?
A: Our Story: “Who says you have to give up burgers, tacos and milkshakes to eat healthy? We’re not about that life! That’s why Griselda Munoz founded Plantology, in 2021 (first opened our doors), with the idea of bringing delicious vegan food to the world and presenting it in a form that people already loved. She created a menu with fresh, often local and organic ingredients that treat your body well”. Our mission, “ We use 100% organic non-GMO soy products. All of our salads are made with organic leafy greens and we source local whenever possible. Our ingredients shows up fresh every morning and at the end of the day, even our kitchen scraps are composted”. Motivator for being open food accessibility and giving people opportunity to be vegan in TEXAS (being one the largest meat eater capitals in US)
Q: What are your number 1 best selling menu items? What’s the feedback from the customers as to why those are the best sellers?
A: Some the best sellers across all our different menus are : Crunchwrap, Cali fries, Nashville, street tacos, Brekkie wrap, Chick’n Waffles, Avocado Bulgogi and MILKSHAKES ofc!! Ours vary from other vegan businesses bc they are naturally sweetened and are thick due to our gf oat milk base making it 100%gf, soy free (aside from the cookies and cream). Some the general feedback we get on our best sellers is :
⁃ WOW this is really vegan, just straight astonishment
⁃ DAMN that’s good, some ppl are shocked bc they haven’t been exposed to quality and authentic Mexican vegan food showcased in our “taco section” and Oaxaca bowl
⁃ Most customers will travel to see us 🥹 or be visiting on work/personal travel and often want us to expand so they can eat with us daily which really touches my heart. We have had customers by hundreds dollars food to drive back to Austin, Corpus Christi and even College Station
⁃ They are surprised by the freshness and flavor displayed in each dish. Some ppl think we just do “vegan fast food” but it’s so fresh 🥹 local and made to order. It’s not like other places pre-made. That’s why can take little bit time to make sure your order is perfect.
Q: What’s the future look like for Plantology and any of your other vegan business projects? Do you aim to open more locations, expand to other states, extend your menu? What are some of the key features we can look forward to?
A: The future Plantology seems bright. Although the economy is struggle for many vegan business we open to expand and remain strong vegan business in SATX. We would like to note it is important for people to continue to show up and support small businesses like us. We have seen many amazing vegan businesses close, we need y’all’s supports.. VEGANS UNITE!
Q: What energy are you looking to bring to your customers? For example, your decor is very vibrant with a grass wall and bright colors. Is the goal for them to feel energized both on the vibe of the restaurant and the food they eat, so essentially match the energies there? Explain why your team chose the look and feel.
A: The energy we want to give to customers when they walk through our space is “WELCOME” in the most calm & loving way possible. It’s safe space we honor customers however they show up and serve them the highest quality vegan food possible. We want good vibes and good energy. We visually display that by the asethics in our restaurant, our customer service, and interactive experiences (little library, food pantry, Photo Booth wall).
Lastly, I want to say Plantology helps builds the lives up of immigrants. We work hard for not only our vegan community but for our families. I think that in its self very beautiful. Thank you for this opportunity please let me know if you need anything else attaching photos shortly
We also have affirmation wall for ppl to write cute saying to lift up everyone!
If you find yourself in San Antonio, Texas, or are looking for a Vegan-Friendly trip this year, be sure to add Plantology, Vegan Avenue, and Kind Burger to your ‘Must-Eat’ list in 2025!
Be sure to follow along their journey and see all of the delicious vegan and gluten free dishes they’re whipping up by following their social media pages here:
Photos taken by Liberty Vela.
