After living in East London for 10 years going for a visit feels like coming home and going somewhere completely new all at once. London is ever changing, there is always something new to explore yet, luckily, many of my old haunts have still hung on in there despite the shifting city. So, here are a few of my favourite London vegan or vegan friendly places to eat – old and new.
London Food
For me the perfect places to eat are low-key with big flavours! I’m sharing a variety of eateries, some will be fully plant based and others have great vegan options.
Club Mexicana
A fully vegan restaurant I’ve been going to since back in their Hackney pop-up days! The food is packed with flavour and is definitely one to take people who have the preconception that plant based is boring. The vibe and food is lively and filled with big Mexican flavours.
LD’s Kitchen in Saint Monday Brewery
The best vegan BBQ I’ve ever had! London’s first fully vegan smokehouse. The food is treated with care and slowly smoked for maximum flavour. Please order the brisket – you can thank me later. Saint Monday Brewery is also a super cool spot for drinks with a great beer selection, rock music and helpful bar staff.
Vida Bakery
Vegan and gluten free bakery on Brick Lane, so good that it was who I trusted to make my beautiful wedding cake.
Mildreds
Mildreds has been a London vegetarian staple since 1988! Now fully plant based and various locations throughout the city, Mildreds has stood the test of time by serving up deliciously food for any time of the day.
Tofu Vegan
Vegan Chinese food that’s so good my meat eating friends choose this as their Chinese of choice. We took the staff advice and ordered a variety of food to share at the table and there was not a dud dish to be found.
Aya and Suki
A laid back little vegetarian eatery, this used to be our go to for lunch and dinner when we worked on Broadway Market, such a lovely warm atmosphere with beautiful fresh dishes. Order the cauliflower and thank me later.
Beigel Bake
I mean, an absolute classic! Waiting in line for a bagel for it to be lobbed across the counter at you. Absolutely no frills and a must go to in East London.
Pophams
This had been hyped to the hills but totally lived up to all the love. Beautiful spaces with an open kitchen offering, bread, pastries, soups, salads and sandwiches but done to such an incredibly high quality. I love somewhere that offers something different for their vegan clientele so the cauliflower “cheese” toasty was an absolute winner
Towpath Cafe
A warm intimate spot right on the canal. Towpath has been there for every occasion, from client lunches, to solo dates to birthday parties — it’s always a favourite due to its warm hospitality.
Dudleys
A cool neighbourhood spot with excellent food and coffee. This was my regular haunt when I lived in Walthamstow and is still somewhere I keep coming back to. It’s more than your regular cafe and they also host community events and yoga.
Buhler and Co
One of my top brunch spots (especially in summer) where you can enjoy the small outside garden. Whether you want to sit in and enjoy a meal or grab a coffee and baked goods to go Buhler will always have something interesting on the menu.
Temple of Seitan
Fast food chicken shop but made vegan. Junk food at its best.
These are just a few of my favourite spots, I’d love to get your recommendations. If these are your vibe you might like my other travel guides.
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