Best Vegan Spots in London:
The Insider’s Guide
This post was written by Community Partner, freelance writer and conscious living advocate, Jennifer Sy.
Veganism and clean eating are on the rise throughout the UK. The most significant display of the statement is that the number of vegans in the country rose by 1.1 million in 2023, marking a steady increase since then.
Unsurprisingly, the majority of British vegans reside in London, as city dwellers increasingly adopt a plant-based diet for various reasons such as environmental protection or wellness initiatives. With the surge in veganism, there has been an explosion of eateries offering at least some vegan options on their menus.
However, with all the options available, it can be challenging to find the best places. We’re here to share our favorite vegan restaurants in London to help.
What makes the best vegan food in London?
It’s no secret that more Londoners have become more eco-conscious, recognizing that the earth needs us more than ever. More residents have transitioned to vegan diets to give back to the planet, resulting in a significant uptick in restaurants catering to plant-based demands.
Now, there are hundreds of options, with many opting for completely vegan menus, as the city consistently ranks among the top vegan-friendly cities in the world. But what makes the best plant-based restaurants in London? We’d say a delicate balance between taste, experience, menu options and affordability.
5 best vegan restaurants in London
With that in mind, let’s dive into our frontrunners for the best vegan restaurants in London.
1. Mildred’s Covent Garden
Not only has Mildred’s been rated as one of the most outstanding vegan restaurants in the city, but it also has acclaim as one of the best restaurants in Covent Garden. Vegans and non-vegans alike repeatedly visit to enjoy one of the most colorful and bountiful culinary experiences in the West End.
Mildred’s menu adopts a global perspective, integrating dishes from East Asian and Indian cuisines, even offering a sensational take on a classic burger for those who prefer it. Bottom line, the restaurant is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a great meal.
That’s also the reason why it gets busy during peak times. It’s best to book if you plan on visiting Mildred’s in Covent Garden.
2. Mallow Borough Market
Mallow may appear deceptively expensive due to its outstanding presentation of dishes and bohemian interior decor. However, this vegan eatery is remarkably affordable and the variety of plant-based dishes is unparalleled.
Located a stone’s throw away from London Bridge, Mallow has fast become a favorite amongst London vegans. Sublime service and delightful, globally inspired cuisines would make anyone think they’ve walked into a luxury culinary establishment.
3. Tofu Vegan Islington
Anyone looking to scratch their Chinese culinary itch with a plant-based preference should visit Tofu Vegan in Islington. The dim sum and range of mock-meat dishes, spanning centuries of East Asian cooking, are not to be missed.
Even carnivores would be ecstatic with the delectable flavors and sizable portions, not to mention their gorgeous presentation. Tofu Vegan has become a staple among the plant-based pioneers of London, who regularly enjoy Chinese dishes with centuries of vegan history.
4. Gauthier
Gauthier is the epitome of vegan fine dining in London, offering a seven-course, gorgeously curated dinner that would be hard to convince anyone that the entire meal was plant-based. The restaurant’s head chef, Alexis Gauthier, held a Michelin star for his French-style gastronomical approach, deciding to reopen his establishment as a completely vegan experience a couple of years ago.
The dishes offer a fresh, inventive approach, where every course is a colorful, tasty statement that showcases why plant-based cooking can dominate London’s culinary scene. While Gauthier might be on the pricey side, it’s worth the visit, as witnessing vegan cuisine transform into an eloquent fine dining experience is truly worthwhile.
5. Holy Carrot
Holy Carrot has gained a reputation as one of London’s best vegan establishments for a specific reason. It has mastered the art of plant-based cheese, where diners flock to try the renowned “Burella” dish, an exquisite take on burrata that’s as delicious as it’s visually appealing.
But that’s not all Holy Carrot can do, quite the opposite. Their vegan dishes expand on classics with lovely mains such as the celeriac schnitzel burger and Kojo bread. Paired with their bio-dynamic wines, it’s a brilliant plant-based dining experience that you can’t help but love.
Let’s not forget that the decor perfectly complements the meal experience.
Enjoy your next delicious vegan meal in the heart of London
Not only are these vegan restaurants a magnificent dining experience, but they can also be part of an overall wellness journey that helps many people feel cleansed amidst the hustle and bustle of London. If you’re someone who is a lifelong vegan, enjoys plant-based cuisine or wants to eat more healthfully, these places are a must-try.