January might be known for fresh starts, but in Philadelphia, it’s also a reminder of just how far plant-based dining has come.
As "Veganuary" takes center stage, Marquis & Co.—the hospitality group behind HipCityVeg, Bar Bombón, and Charlie Was a Sinner—is celebrating more than meatless menus. They’re honoring a homegrown movement that helped put Philly on the map as a destination for bold, chef-driven vegan food, long before plant-based became a buzzword.
What began as a belief that vegan dining could be craveable and inclusive has grown into a community—and a cultural legacy—that continues to shape how the city eats today.
“When we opened HipCityVeg in 2012, people didn’t expect plant-based food to taste that good,” says Chief Operating Officer Michelle LaVigne. “Now, we’ve built a community that spans Philly, D.C., and beyond — proving that you don’t have to give anything up to eat better for yourself and the planet.”
To celebrate the continuation of its mission — to make plant-based dining “delicious, accessible, and unapologetically cool” — Marquis & Co. is offering a group-wide campaign titled “Philly’s Vegan OGs.” Now through Jan. 31, guests are invited to visit all three of the group’s concepts, and when you do, you automatically will be entered to win a $500 gift card, good for any of the trio spots.
HipCityVeg for one helped redefine what fast food could look like in Philadelphia, serving up 100% plant-based versions of American classics. From the popular Crispy Chick’n Sandwich to sweet potato fries and creamy shakes, the menu proves that comfort food can be indulgent and intentional. With multiple locations across Philly and Washington, D.C., HipCityVeg remains a leader in accessible, feel-good vegan dining in the area.
And then there’s Bar Bombón (133 S 18th St.), where the spirit of Old San Juan comes alive in Rittenhouse Square. Visitors can order up dishes like empanadas, buffalo cauliflower tacos, and reimagined classics, which are paired with cocktails that honor Latin heritage. With lush interiors and a welcoming environment, Bar Bombón has become one of the city’s most unique vegan dining destinations.
Finally, Charlie Was A Sinner (131 S 13th St.) offers a darker, more decadent side of plant-based dining. Tucked into Midtown Village, the sultry cocktail lounge pairs inventive small plates with a standout bar program led by some of Philadelphia’s top mixologists. It’s a space designed for late nights and lingering conversations — proof that vegan cuisine can be every bit as seductive as it is sophisticated.
Throughout January, guests are invited to experience all three Marquis & Co. concepts and taste the roots of Philly’s vegan movement firsthand.
“This month is about celebrating how far vegan dining has come in Philly,” finishes LaVigne. “Veganuary invites people to try something new — and for us, it’s a chance to show that plant-based food has always been part of this city’s story.”
To find more information, visit hipcityveg.com, barbombon.com and charliewasasinner.com
