Are you like myself and always struggling to find a good spot to enjoy a vegan or vegetarian meal here in Charleston? Well search no more. From downtown Charleston to Mount Pleasant, all the way to West Ashley and Folly Beach, there are numerous restaurants that are calling your name.

Gnome Cafe | Downtown Charleston

First on the list is Gnome Cafe in downtown Charleston. Whether you're a seasoned vegan or a curious carnivore, Gnome Cafe's goal is to show you how satisfying plant-based cuisine can be. Whether you're craving a big breakfast, an energy filled lunch, or a decadent dessert, Gnome Cafe has it all. From their Mushroom BLT to their Pad Thai or chickpea salad, you will most definitely leave feeling satisfied, refreshed and ready to conquer the rest of your day.

BKeD SHoP | Downtown Charleston

Next up, the BKeD SHoP. Their shop is famous for their tremendous donuts made daily completely from scratch. Some vegan favorites include the apple fritter, vanilla bean, cinnamon bun, and maple cranberry. The BKeD SHoP prides themselves on creating unique seasonal doughs, glazes and garnishes, while also serving a wide range of espresso based beverages and drip coffee from high quality coffee roasters. After you stop in for a donut, make sure to make your way to the plant section of the store and buy yourself something to spruce up your home. Donuts, coffee and plants... what more could you ask for?

Verde | Downtown, Mt. Pleasant, West Ashley

Next on the list is my personal favorite Verde. Verde is dedicated to going green inside and out by serving you local seasonal ingredients. From serving fresh salads in compostable containers, recycling when they can, and using bicycles to make deliveries when possible, they're all about reducing our carbon footprint and encouraging a healthy lifestyle.

Jack of Cups Saloon | Folly Beach

Fourth on our list is Folly Beach's Jack of Cups Saloon. They're all about creating unexpected, globally-inspired comfort dishes, often inspired by Asian and Indian flavors. Charleston Magazine says that it's a haven for vegetarians, vegans and omnivores alike. With sidewalk booths and a sunny back courtyard, Jack of Cups is proof that a world of extraordinary flavors can exist in small places. Enjoy Americana sliders made with plant-based patties or teriyaki cashew toast topped with fresh herbs. Just steps away from the beach, grab your meal to-go with a hibiscus tea margarita and make your way to the sands.

Neon Tiger | Downtown Charleston

Last but definitely not least, is downtown Charleston's Neon Tiger. Founded by animal rights activist John Adamson, Neon Tiger is a cocktail bar focused on local, organic, sophisticated libations and small plates. His inspiration to open the restaurant was sparked by the current species extinction crisis and how animal agriculture plays a big role. Adamson focuses on recreating those flavors and satisfactions that many people look for in meat. He said that once people are here, customers will usually try the pepperoni pizza and they have no idea they're eating plants rather than pork. Lastly, before you leave the restaurant, make sure to grab a slice of their vegan chocolate cake topped with buttercream frosting served with warm cocoa fondue and fresh berries.

Make sure to let us know in the comments below what your favorite vegan and vegetarian spots are here in the Charleston area.