Can’t Believe It’s Not Meat, New Hyde Park Vegan Spot, Has A Plant-Based Version Of Chicken And Mild Sauce

HYDE PARK — Can’t Believe It’s Not Meat, a vegan and vegetarian spot specializing in plant-based comfort food, opened in Hyde Park this weekend.

The restaurant, at 1368-½ E. 53rd St. in Hyde Park, aims to please serious vegans and meat-eaters alike, with burgers, hot dogs and Philly cheesesteaks made with soy and other plant-based proteins.

Owned by his vegetarian sister Laricia Chandler, restaurateur Rico Nance said the focus on American staples could help locals realize that a plant-based diet isn’t so scary.

“We wanted to encourage transitioning into healthy eating by creating healthier versions of your favorite comfort foods and providing knowledge about plant-based alternatives,” Nance said.

Other veggiefied offerings include “chicken” and waffles, lasagna, and a vegan chicken leg with mild sauce, which may remind diners of a certain popular local chain.

The restaurant will also offer shakes, smoothies and homemade lemonade. Prices range from $7-$16.

The restaurant will be open 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, noon-6 p.m. on Fridays with special Saturday hours 6 p.m.-midnight in observation of the Sabbath.

Nance owns Litehouse Whole Food Grill, Mikkey’s Grill and Soul Shack, which opened last month. Chandler owns Epitome Boutique, 216 W. 31st Street.

*Editor’s note: An earlier version of this article incorrectly stated that the restaurant was owned by Rico Nance. Nance’s sister Laricia Chandler is the actual owner of Can’t Believe It’s Not Meat.

Do stories like this matter to you? Subscribe to Block Club Chicago. Every dime we make funds reporting from Chicago’s neighborhoods.