The Democratic Table — accessible to all
All-vegetarian diner with vegan options. Comfort food classics reimagined plant-based. Retro diner atmosphere with modern values. Full bar.
The Maitre d' Recommends
The Vibe
Veggie Galaxy channels classic American diner energy with a plant-based twist. Chrome stools, vinyl booths, and a long counter create that timeless diner atmosphere, while the entirely vegetarian menu proves that comfort food doesn't need meat to satisfy. It's loud, fun, and exactly what Central Square needs.
Energetic buzz—speak up a bit
Why It's Great
The All-Vegetarian Diner That Guy Fieri Couldn't Resist
When Guy Fieri featured Veggie Galaxy on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, he discovered what Central Square already knew: this place makes plant-based food that satisfies like the real thing. The vegan mac and cheese earned his "out of bounds" declaration, and the secret is simple—they treat vegetarian cooking as a craft, not a compromise.
The diner format is deliberate. Owner Adam Penn wanted to prove that classic American comfort food—burgers, shakes, breakfast plates—could work without animal products. The challenge forced creativity: seitan bacon that actually crisps, vegan cheese that melts properly, milkshakes thick enough to resist a straw.
The menu covers all the diner bases. Breakfast runs all day (as it should), with pancakes, omelets, and scrambles. Burgers come in multiple configurations. The dessert case holds pies, cakes, and that famous vegan cheesecake. Everything is made in-house with attention to both flavor and texture.
Central Square embraces Veggie Galaxy as its own. Students, families, and vegans from across Greater Boston pack the booths. The late-night crowd includes everyone from club kids to chefs finishing their shifts. It's the rare restaurant that makes meat-eaters forget they're eating vegetarian.
Late-night after a show at the Middle East: mac and cheese, a milkshake, and the satisfaction of proving that vegetarian food can party too.
Vegan Mac & Cheese
The Guy Fieri-approved classic—creamy, comforting, and entirely plant-based
Classic Veggie Burger
House-made patty with all the fixings on a toasted bun
Breakfast Burrito
Loaded with tofu scramble, veggies, and cheese—available vegan
Vegan Milkshakes
Thick, creamy, available in all the classic flavors
Why It's In Our Guide
Veggie Galaxy proves that vegetarian comfort food can satisfy anyone. The diner format makes plant-based eating accessible, and the execution converts skeptics into regulars.
“Veggie Galaxy serves the kind of food that makes meat-eaters forget they're eating vegetarian.”
— Boston Globe“The vegan mac and cheese is legitimately one of the best versions—plant-based or otherwise—in the city.”
— Eater BostonCentral Square vegans and vegetarians treat Veggie Galaxy as their clubhouse. But half the customers are omnivores who just love the food.
Insider Tips
Late night (after 9pm) for the full diner experience. Weekend brunch is crowded but fun.
No reservations—it's a diner. Come early or be prepared to wait during peak times.
Counter seats offer classic diner vibes. Booths work better for groups.
Start with the mac and cheese—it's the signature for a reason. The breakfast menu is available all day.
Street parking on Mass Ave is tough. Central T is a 3-minute walk.
Ratings & Reviews
Based on 1,974 reviews
1,098 reviews
Updated 2024-12
876 reviews
Updated 2024-12
Frequently Asked Questions
The menu is entirely vegetarian, and most items can be made vegan. Eggs and dairy are used in some dishes but can usually be substituted. The menu clearly marks vegan options, and staff can guide you through modifications.
Reddit Mentions
Contact Details
450 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139
Mon-Thu: 9AM-10PM, Fri-Sat: 9AM-11PM, Sun: 9AM-10PM
3 min walk from Central
RedJulia Child lived on Irving Street. She would have opinions about this.
“She was my Rushmore.”
— Herman Blume, on Cambridge dining