With less than a month until Vegfest London, we’ll be gorging ourselves on vegan hotdogs and shakes before we know it. Here’s a small selection of the best-loved vegan and vegetarian joints in the UK for all kinds of palates – be it comfort food you’re after, something international or something new and exciting to try.
Beached Lamb Café, Newquay
Sitting at the Fistral end of Newquay’s high street is a vibrant café held dear to the hearts of locals and tourists alike. The Beached Lamb is the epitome of Newquay’s care-free, seaside spirit. Surf culture decorates the walls in the form of talented local artists’ work, all available to buy. The café is famous around town for a whole bunch of veggie delights; amazing vegan shakes made with coconut milk, proper veggie breakfasts, and now, vegan hotdogs! Have a seat in the cosy back area to soak up the chilled-out vibes to the maximum, and bring along your dogs – this place is dog-friendly.
Café Kino, Bristol
Another community space, this time in Bristol, Café Kino is also a loved local vegan café. The first thing you’ll notice is the wealth of vibrant colours which make up the fresh food on offer. The vegan fresh-baked goods are to die for, as are the homemade falafel, burgers and sandwiches (especially the vegan sausage sandwich). Best of all, this friendly space is not-for-profit, so it won’t cost you the earth!
Gopal’s Curry Shack, Bristol
Gopal’s curry shack, making up the collection of shipping containers at Wapping Wharf, is a brilliant vegetarian addition to the Cargo foodie hub. It was opened by friends Mel and Heather, united by their passion for good food and a love of Indian flavours. Their mission is simple: ‘fresh, aromatic and seasonal vegetarian and vegan food, lovingly prepared’. We recommend a thali plate for a taste of southern India to conquer your hunger, or a Mumbai toastie for a lighter bite.
Ethos, London
Ethos offers something fresh for meat fans and veggies alike. Near Oxford Circus, this meat-free restaurant serves fresh, creative and indulgent food, self-served and charged by weight. This way, you get a totally flexible dining experience – try as much or as little as you like! Within the impressive, stylish and tree-filled interior, you’ll find a range of tempting dishes spread around the place – lasagna, Thai fritters, halloumi burgers, sweet potato fries, curries, lentils, mac and cheese, as well as salads and more. Around 50% of the options are vegan, and a similar percentage gluten free. Unleash your food-matching creativity!
Bundobust, Manchester & Leeds
Indian food is a favourite among vegetarians – with such a multitude of bold flavours and aromas, it’s easy to see why. Bundobust was born when a craft beer bar and an Indian restaurant joined forces, resulting in a string of successful street food market appearances and eventually a permanent home in Leeds, now accompanied by a second in Manchester. It simply serves Gujurat-inspired vegetarian street food with expertly-picked local and international craft beer to pair it with. Bundobust is proof of the ever-growing love affair between British people and international street food.
Terre á Terre, Brighton
Every meat-free foodie has been to or heard of Terre á Terre. The award-winning restaurant is completely unique, and claims to ‘stimulate your mind as well as your taste buds’. For over 20 years, this veggie haven has been converting carnivores and serving up delicately-crafted, indulgent plant-based dishes. Try the Aloo Sailor – turmeric potato rosti, podi toor spice paste, spinach, pachadi pickle, tandoori halloumi, and coconut yogurt raita.
