Las Vegas just got a little more plant-powered. The new Aldi on Rainbow Boulevard officially opened its doors, and for vegetarians and vegans navigating a world of bacon-wrapped everything, it’s a welcome oasis. But is it just hype—or does this budget grocery chain actually deliver the meat-free goods?
All Photos Courtesy of Melle Hartley/Dromma Photography
Why Aldi Matters to the Plant-Based Community
Aldi has garnered a strong reputation for offering budget-friendly organic and vegan products, primarily through its private-label brands. Approximately 90% of Aldi’s inventory consists of its own brands, such as Simply Nature, which provides affordable organic, non-GMO, and preservative-free options . This focus on private labels allows Aldi to maintain quality while keeping prices low.
In addition to product offerings, Aldi emphasizes sustainability through its packaging practices. The company is committed to increasing recyclability, reducing packaging materials, and incorporating post-consumer recycled content in its plastic packaging . These efforts align with Aldi’s broader goal of minimizing environmental impact while providing value to customers.
The introduction of Aldi’s new store on Rainbow Boulevard in Las Vegas complements the city’s evolving food culture, particularly in areas like Summerlin and Spring Valley. Las Vegas has seen a surge in plant-based dining options, reflecting a broader trend toward healthier and more sustainable lifestyles. Aldi’s affordable and eco-conscious offerings provide residents in these neighborhoods with convenient access to quality vegan and vegetarian products, supporting the city’s growing demand for plant-based choices.
Top Vegan & Vegetarian Finds at the Rainbow Location
As a long-time vegan, I walked into the new Aldi on Rainbow with a mix of curiosity and cautious optimism. I’d heard whispers about their plant-based selections, but I wasn’t sure how the reality would stack up—especially in a brand-new location.
The new Aldi on Rainbow Blvd is now open.
First things first, the essentials were well-covered. I found both oat and almond milk stocked in generous supply, including Aldi’s budget-friendly house brands.
Aldi’s private-label almond and oat milks offer both affordability and variety.
For snackers, there were veggie straws, trail mix, and a variety of nuts—all great for throwing into a bag or pairing with hummus for a quick snack.
Snack-friendly vegan finds that won’t break the bank.
The pantry section held its own, too. Aldi’s shelves included cooking staples like olive oil, grains, spices, and canned beans—all of which are vegan-friendly and notably affordable.
Vegan cooking basics, neatly organized and easy on the wallet.
The fresh produce section was clean, well-stocked, and full of vibrant, budget-friendly fruits and vegetables. No complaints there.
Bright produce, well-stocked shelves, and no premium price tags.
What really impressed me, though, were the more substantial meat-free meals. I stumbled upon a few refrigerated vegetarian Indian entrees—like tikka masala and chickpea and veggie korma—that looked perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. I also found frozen veggie burgers under Aldi’s Earth Grown line, a nice bonus for anyone craving a meatless grilling option.
Ready-to-heat vegetarian Indian dishes and frozen Earth Grown burgers—quick and satisfying.
That said, the dessert selection left me a little cold—literally and figuratively. I wasn’t able to find any non-dairy ice cream or dedicated vegan dessert options. No coconut milk gelato, no almond milk pops, no sneaky vegan cookies tucked in the bakery section. The only vegan sweet treat I could find was a dark chocolate bar.
It’s a gap I hope they’ll fill as the location settles in and expands its offerings.
What Locals Are Saying
A member of the Facebook Group, Las Vegas Vegans, mentioned “For those asking about vegan options at Aldi, they do have some stuff that can vary by store. Their inventory can also change, so they may not have something today, but they’ll have it next week.”
Another member shared a photo of a plant-based almond non-dairy whipped topping which the caption read, “…Many vegan choices (you just have to look).”
Tips for Shopping Smart
- Bring your own bags—Aldi charges for them.
- Double-check labels. Sadly, not all “plant-based” items are vegan.
- Shop on Wednesdays for new product drops and restocks.
All in all, it’s a strong start. While it won’t replace specialty health food stores, the new Aldi is a welcome, budget-friendly stop for Las Vegas vegans and vegetarians looking to stock up on everyday staples—with a few global surprises along the way.
Have you tried the new Rainbow Aldi yet? Share your best vegan finds with us on Instagram @VeganRiverEvents.
Melle Hartley is a Las Vegas-based writer and photographer with a passion for storytelling on and off the screen. A committed vegan since 2018, she brings a plant-powered perspective to her work and daily life. Melle is currently earning her degree in Entertainment Business from the Los Angeles Film School, where she studies online while building her creative career.
Sources:
- Private Brands Revolution in Grocery Industry in 2024
- Sustainable Packaging | ALDI US – ALDI Corporate
- Las Vegas Vegan – Happy Eco News
All Photos Courtesy of Melle Hartley/Dromma Photography