It’s estimated there are over eight million U.S adults who are either practicing vegans or vegetarians, according to a 2016 Harris Poll. Though reasons vary, the trend of nixing meat for veggies has increased by as much as 70 percent in the last several years. 

With vegetarianism on the rise, the ability to choose vegan or vegetarian cuisine has also become more necessary and accessible. You’re much more likely to find options in supermarkets, restaurants, and even schools. 

WalletHub recently ranked the best cities in the U.S. for vegans and vegetarians. While the top 10 is loaded with places you’d expect (New York, Portland, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Scottsdale shows up in the number eight spot.

The Arizona city was ranked highly because of its number of restaurants serving vegetarian options as well as being very welcoming to the vegetarian lifestyle. If you’d like to see what all the fuss is about, here are six Scottsdale restaurants where you need to start your veggie- and soy-based culinary journey. 

Fresh Mint - Desert Paradise Estates

Rendering courtesy of Fresh Mint

Vegetarian and vegan restaurant Fresh Mint near Desert Paradise Estates, offers veggie fare with a Vietnamese twist. Every dish is made to order, including the Spicy Lemongrass Noodle Soup and crowd-favorite Rainbow Wonder, where seven colors of assorted vegetables are wokked and topped with a sesame ginger garlic sauce. The place has been featured on the local news and in various magazines and newspapers, so they must be doing something right. 

The Herb Box - DC Ranch

Photo courtesy of The Herb Box

The Herb Box located in DC Ranch offers savory twists with interesting ingredients and a fresh look at tried-and-true favorites. Using local organic produce when possible, the restaurant does serve meat dishes but their vegan and vegetarian plates stand out. The Vegan Nosh Board and Sweet Potato Tacos with spicy roasted corn avocado salsa is especially popular with customers.

Flower Child - Tierra Santa-Arabian Gardens

Photo courtesy of Flower Child

Flower Child, located near the Tierra Santa-Arabian Gardens neighborhood, began as a food journey to enlightenment for its owners. Offering farm-fresh produce under the guidance of the Environmental Working Group, local food sources are a priority and their selections are cooked fresh. Bowls such as the Wild Mushroom Pho as well as Mother Earth, with broccoli pesto, leafy greens, and red pepper miso vinaigrette, are favorites among regulars.

Kale and Clover - Grayhawk / Peregrine Villas          

Photo courtesy of Kale and Clover

Kale and Clover by the Grayhawk and Peregrine Villas neighborhoods, offers a wide variety of vegan and vegetarian selections, including salads, handhelds, and main dishes. Offering nutritionally balanced meals that focus on a healthy lifestyle, their mix ‘n’ match options let you choose up to three health-chic selections like Mediterranean quinoa or a stuffed avocado, for a fulfilling meal that won’t leave you feeling guilty.

Bubbles - Bob-O-Link

Photo courtesy of Bubbles

If you’re looking for a place to have cocktails that serves vegan desserts, Bubbles has a charming atmosphere with an intimate ambience perfect for a low-key night. Located on Shea and 69th Street, a couple blocks east from the Bob-O-Link neighborhood, the bar serves a wide selection of Champagnes, wines, and ciders alongside a vegan dessert menu. Choose from caramel chocolate apples, lemon bars, and organic cotton candy. They also serve a chocolate soufflé that is the perfect size for two to share.