ZipPicks Awards
Best Vegan Restaurants in Lincoln Square
Master Critic Review
Kanlaya Thai Restaurant
7.8
A Lincoln Square Thai dining room where vegan ordering works best when you anchor the meal around tofu-forward staples and clear curry choices. It’s strongest as a shareable, structured order—one noodle, one curry, one starter—so the table stays balanced.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pad Thai (with tofu), Green Curry (with tofu), Panang Curry (with tofu)
Scores:
Value: 7.7
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: A Thai spot where tofu-based classics translate cleanly for vegan diners.
Who should go: Thai-curry fans ordering vegan at the table
When to visit: Weeknight dinner for easier pacing
What to order: Pad Thai with tofu, green curry with tofu, panang curry with tofu
Insider tip: Tell them vegan up front and keep the order to two mains plus a starter.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Lawrence Ave and nearby side streets; availability drops after 6pm, but short walks are usually possible.
Dress code: Smart casual. Jeans are fine; date-night diners often lean slightly dressy.
Noise level: Moderate. You can hold a table conversation without raising your voice, even when busy.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes without a reservation during peak hours
Weekday lunch: No wait typically
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – many standard dishes translate easily with tofu and vegetable bases.
Vegan options: Yes – multiple tofu-based curries and noodle dishes when ordered vegan; confirm sauces when ordering.
Gluten-free options: Limited – some curries and rice-based dishes work, but noodle and sauce cross-use means you should ask before ordering.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The room feels polished without being stiff, and shared Thai dishes give you something to talk about while keeping the pacing relaxed.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes on weeknights or earlier in the evening. On weekends, expect a short wait unless you arrive right at open.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes for older kids who enjoy mild curries or noodles, but it’s more of a sit-down dining room than a quick family stop.
Best For
Better for: Vegan-friendly Thai ordering in a shared, sit-down format where tofu-based classics stay reliable.
Consider Alternatives If: You want ultra-spicy regional Thai dishes or a fully vegan kitchen with zero sauce clarification needed.