London is perhaps one of the top cities in the world for vegan restaurant choices. People of all cultures, faiths and beliefs live in the Capital, and because of this, food of every type imaginable is easily available – including vegan.
But just because there are loads of restaurants to suit, don’t make the mistake of thinking all are made equal. There are some average vegan restaurants in London, some good ones, and then there are some that are truly outstanding…
The following is our list of 9 of the best vegan restaurants in the city. And if you give them a try, we honestly don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
1. Bonnington Cafe
Located in beautiful Bonnington Square, near Vauxhall, Bonnington Cafe is a little known gem of a vegetarian and vegan restaurant with a unique atmosphere and ethos. Set up in the early 1980s, the original purpose was a squat Café that provided cheap meals to the community. And although a lot has changed over the past 30 odd years, the community essence has not.
The restaurant is co-operatively owned, and is staffed and maintained by a variety of ‘member cooks’ who are committed to providing the very best in vegan and vegetarian dishes. These cooks come from around the world, so every night the menu changes. Italian one night, Japanese the next, American, French… You name it, the food will be inspired and cooked this way.
As well as amazing food, the atmosphere is incredible as well. And with starters costing £3, mains £8 and desserts £3, a night out here won’t break the bank either….
Nearest tube station is Vauxhall.
2. Mildreds
Another restaurant that’s been around for at least three decades, Mildreds serves a great selection of value for money food.
These include mushroom and leek pie, burger of the day, organic energizing detox salad and stir fried Asian vegetables. And as for the puddings – you’ll be hard pushed to decide between such delicacies as maple pecan pie and chocolate peanut butter brownies.
The restaurant doesn’t take bookings, but you can have a drink while you wait for a table (it’s very popular). Located in Lexington Street, Soho, this is a great place to eat before hitting the town for a night out.
Nearest tube stations are Oxford Circus and Tottenham Court Road.
3. The Coach and Horses
Visiting The Coach and Horses you can expect such delights as vegan fish (tofush) and chips, beetroot ravioli or vegan chocolate mousse.
The Coach and Horses is also in trendy Soho, in Greek Street. Nearby tube stations include Leicester Square, Piccadilly Circus and Covent Garden.
4. Itadaki Zen
When Itadaki Zen first opened it was the first organic and vegan Japanese restaurant in the whole of Europe. It may not be now, but this doesn’t make it any less special.
Located in King’s Cross (and that’s the nearest tube station), the ethos of the restaurant is not only wonderful food, but also eating for the very best in day-to-day health.
The menu is carefully selected and all dishes prepared only when an order is placed. It’s a little pricier than the others mentioned so far in this list, but believe us, it’s worth it!
5. Manna
This Primrose Hill restaurant serves separate lunch and dinner menus, each including wonderful daily specials that combine great detoxifying ingredients.
Manna is a chic, non-pretentious dining experience that’s been around for nearly five decades. Everything on the menu is 100% vegan, and the owners only use ingredients that are organic, fair trade and locally sourced (wherever possible).
The nearest tube station is Chalk Farm, close to Camden, making it easy to get to, and a great choice for lunch after a morning browsing trendy Camden Market.
6. Loving Hut
Another 100% vegan eatery, Loving Hut serves a Thai inspired menu that rivals many of the better-known restaurants in town. Delights such as Pad Thai, Hot Pot and Crispy Aromatic Veggie Duck are on the menu, along with good value set meals from £15.50 per person.
Archway tube is the nearest station, and the restaurant is open Tuesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner (dinner only at the weekends).
7. Rainforest Creations
With the slogan, ‘Let food by they medicine and medicine be thy food’, Rainforest Creations is a stall located in the world famous, Spitalfields Market.
Only open on Sundays, this pioneering company has taken raw food to another level, with delights such as raw vegan cakes, living food salads, roti and wraps.
Get to Spitalfields via Liverpool Street tube station, and spend a wonderful few hours browsing the amazing market, stalls and shops.
8. Carnavale Restaurant
Carnavale is a Mediterranean veggie restaurant and deli in the City of London. The menu boasts a delightful and varied selection, including Falafel, Phyllo Purse Pumpkin Casserole, Breaded Aubergine and some yummy desserts. And the prices are pretty reasonable as well.
Located in Whitecross Street, EC1, you can also take advantage of visiting Whitecross Street Market, one of the oldest in London. Nearest tube stations are Barbican, Old Street and Moorgate.
9. The Gate
Located in Islington, The Gate takes vegetarian menus to another level. Choose from the varied a la carte menu or take advantage of brunch at the weekends (from 10:00hrs-15:00hrs).
The décor is simple yet classy and expect a combination of Indian and Arabic cuisine to be on offer, with a touch of Italian and French influence. The portions are of a good size and extremely flavoursome. It simply serves great vegetarian and vegan food, and that’s the reason for the restaurant’s popularity.
The nearest tube stations are Hammersmith or Angel, and the restaurant is open 7 days a week.
