Opening its doors to the Hickory community in April 2022, Plant Based Boss has made its mark on Hickory’s taste buds as the first fully plant-based restaurant in the area. This isn't just a place to eat; it’s an experience you’ll want to savor.
Co-owners Ashley Pope and Justice Geran began their food service business in California, where they started selling custom packaged meals during the pandemic. It was after this experience that they decided to grow their business and better utilize Justice’s exceptional cooking skills. The pair also decided it was time for a change in location, so they moved across the country to Ashley’s hometown of Hickory (Conover), North Carolina. It was during their search for a food truck that they stumbled across the perfect brick and mortar spot in Downtown Hickory. It was there, in Trade Alley, where they opened their first location of Plant Based Boss, serving up delicious vegan-friendly dishes, grab and go meals, and refreshing smoothies. Being vegan for 13 years, Justice and Ashley have perfected the craft of cooking vegan dishes that even non-vegans will love.
Fast forward a few months and a great location became available on 1st Ave. NW in Downtown Hickory. This location offered a larger kitchen area, room for more seating, and many other opportunities to share their love of beautiful and tasty vegan food.
When you step inside you’re immediately hit with artsy vibes that were inspired by the streets of San Francisco. The restaurant is adorned with striking black brick walls, lush greenery, and a showstopper graffiti mural, all designed by Justice and Ashley themselves. If the decor is any indication of the food to come, we’re in for a treat!
Now, let’s talk about food. The menu is inspired by locations Justice frequented as a child and adult in California and also through trial and successes of hands-on cooking for him and Ashley. Plant Based Boss isn’t your run-of-the-mill vegan joint. Forget boring salads and bland tofu—this place redefines what a plant-based lifestyle can be. With most of the plant based “meats” and condiments curated in house by Justice. The menu is so diverse and mouth watering that even those not used to vegan dishes would never guess it’s all considered clean plant based. Take a bite out of the infamous Jacob Miller Burger named after a Caribbean musical artist that is known as a local favorite! Try the drool-worthy Hawaiian BBQ Wrap, or Justice and Ashley also recommend their “Olmec” bowl and burrito. And let’s not forget about Saturday brunch! From the Brunch Burritos and house made livermush, to the Award-Winning Mac & Cheese, the ever-changing flavors will have you coming back for more. Pair any meal with an all-natural Plant Based Boss Smoothie or delicious pistachio or banana pudding cookie, and you’ve got yourself a match made in heaven. (Justice also recommends grabbing a strawberry-lemonade cookie when they are available!)
If you can’t make it to the storefront, catch Plant Based Boss out and about in their new food truck! In the next few months, they plan to serve up their delicious food at various events like Vegan Vibes in Charlotte, Hart Square Village Festival and more! For a full list of locations and festivals, visit their Facebook page. In the future, Justice and Ashley hope to sell their “meats” as pre-packaged options for those looking to eat cleaner at home. They also have plans to expand their grab & go offerings so that you can get your vegan fix at home or on the go.
It’s not just the food and ambiance that make this spot a must-visit. It’s the community. Whether you’re a die-hard meat eater or a seasoned vegan, Plant Based Boss welcomes everyone with open arms. They’re on a mission to break the stereotype of the vegan lifestyle, and with every delicious bite, they’re making it clear that vegan food can be exciting and full of flavor.
So, why not join the ride? Come see what the buzz is all about. Experience the flavorful, vibrant future of Hickory with a visit to Plant Based Boss. You won’t just be dining; you’ll be part of a community making a positive impact on the place we call home. And remember, you don't need to be vegan to enjoy (great) vegan food!
Dual authorship provided by Mina Kinjo, Grace Douglas, & Sarah Jones
