REVIEW: Black Leaf Vegan Cafe is a lukewarm offering in Indianapolis’ vegan dining scene

Nestled in a small section of the upper canal area downtown, Black Leaf Vegan Cafe welcomes customers with a swanky, warm vibe that promises to excite. Melodic music weaves through the dining area and the décor adds to the coziness of the space, while abundant seating gives guests the opportunity to unwind while they enjoy their meal. The menu is small but filled with good staples for variety. Sweet potato fries, mac n’ cheese and bacon ranch burgers bring an Americana flare, while the piled-high vegan loaded nachos, quesadilla and guac burger provide a south-of-the-border twist. A 100% vegan restaurant, the menu is a safe space for those with dietary needs or preferences. My dining time of choice was dinner, but the menu boasts bagel sandwiches, oatmeal cups and avocado toast for grab-and-go options before work. Additionally, the drink portion of the menu is full of specialty and wellness drinks, like the super cider and the dragon fruit berry smoothie. Open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Friday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, the menu contains options for every meal of the day, including dessert. For my dinner order, I settled on the sweet potato fries, the loaded...