Philadelphia’s Chinatown welcomes a new dining option that blends comfort food with a plant‑based twist. Vegan Are Us, founded by local entrepreneur Sharonda Harris‑Bunton, opened its doors this month at 1016‑1018 Race Street, offering a menu designed to promote healthier eating habits.
Menu highlights blend tradition with innovation
The restaurant’s flagship dishes include vegan chicken and waffles, a shrimp po’ boy crafted from white yams, and the Philly V Steak. Classic Southern sides such as General Soul Chicken, mac and cheese, and collard greens round out the menu, all prepared without animal products.
Founder’s personal mission drives the concept
Harris‑Bunton says her love of cooking began in her family kitchen. After losing loved ones to health‑related illnesses, she turned that personal loss into a public mission: to make nutritious, plant‑based meals accessible to the community. She first built a following through social‑media cooking shows, later opening restaurants in New Jersey before bringing the concept to Philadelphia.
Beyond the restaurant: a line of health‑focused products
In addition to the dining experience, Vegan Are Us offers a line of seasonings, cold‑pressed juices, smoothies, and alkaline water, extending the brand’s health‑centric philosophy beyond the plate.
Future growth plans
Harris‑Bunton announced plans to open a second Vegan Are Us location in Atlantic City next spring, signaling confidence in the brand’s regional appeal. The expansion aims to bring the same plant‑based comfort fare to a broader audience while continuing the founder’s health‑focused mission.
Community impact
Local residents and visitors alike have responded positively, noting the restaurant’s ability to provide familiar comfort dishes without compromising on nutrition. By situating the eatery in Chinatown, Vegan Are Us also contributes to the neighborhood’s culinary diversity, offering an alternative to traditional fare while supporting the area’s economic vitality.
For those interested in trying the menu or learning more about the brand’s health products, Vegan Are Us maintains an active presence on Instagram and Facebook.
Original reporting: Allentown News – 6abc Philadelphia — read the source article.
