Why Edinburgh is a Great City for Vegans
Edinburgh, Scotland’s captivating capital, is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene. But beyond the iconic Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile, a delicious secret is waiting to be discovered: Edinburgh’s blossoming vegan food scene. Gone are the days when plant-based eaters struggled to find satisfying options while traveling. Edinburgh has embraced the vegan movement, offering an abundance of diverse and delectable choices for vegans and anyone looking to enjoy a more plant-forward lifestyle. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply curious about plant-based cuisine, this guide will lead you on a culinary adventure through Edinburgh’s best vegan restaurants, cafes, and hidden gems. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and experience the delicious side of vegan Edinburgh!
Edinburgh’s transformation into a vegan-friendly city has been remarkable. A few years ago, finding dedicated vegan establishments was a challenge. Today, the city boasts a thriving community of vegan restaurants, cafes, and shops, a testament to the growing popularity of plant-based eating. The increased visibility of veganism is not just about more restaurants; it reflects a wider shift in awareness and acceptance within the city.
This increasing vegan visibility has helped push restaurants to be more accomodating. The Scottish attitude towards veganism is generally positive and open-minded. Locals and visitors alike are increasingly aware of the ethical and environmental benefits of plant-based diets, leading to greater demand for vegan options. This acceptance has, in turn, encouraged chefs and restaurant owners to get creative with their menus.
Furthermore, the city’s location ensures easy access to fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Scotland’s fertile lands produce a bounty of fruits, vegetables, and grains, providing the foundation for delicious vegan cuisine. Edinburgh’s chefs are passionate about using these seasonal ingredients to create innovative and flavorful dishes.
Finally, Edinburgh’s culinary diversity plays a crucial role in its appeal to vegans. From traditional Scottish fare reimagined with plant-based ingredients to international cuisine bursting with flavor, the city offers a wide range of options to satisfy any craving. Whether you’re in the mood for vegan haggis, a hearty lentil stew, or a spicy vegan curry, you’re sure to find something to tantalize your taste buds in Edinburgh.
Top Vegan Restaurants in Edinburgh
Let’s dive into some of the standout vegan restaurants that make Edinburgh a plant-based paradise:
David Bann
This vegetarian (with many vegan options) fine-dining establishment has been a Edinburgh institution for years, it offers a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on globally inspired, innovative vegetarian and vegan dishes. The restaurant is a bit more formal but worth the price for the ambiance and delicious dishes. The restaurant is located in the city center and easy to reach.
Type of Cuisine: International Vegetarian/Vegan.
Atmosphere and Ambiance: Elegant, relaxed, and refined.
Standout Dishes: Their menu changes seasonally, but expect creative dishes with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. They usually have a wide variety of vegan entrees and desserts.
Price Range: Mid-range to High-end.
Why it’s a Must-Visit: For a special occasion or when you’re looking for a sophisticated vegan dining experience.
Holy Cow
This charming cafe and restaurant offers a completely vegan menu with a focus on healthy and sustainable dishes.
Type of Cuisine: Vegan Cafe/Restaurant with global influences.
Atmosphere and Ambiance: Relaxed, casual, and welcoming.
Standout Dishes: The menu changes daily, but you can expect homemade soups, sandwiches, salads, and hearty mains made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. It’s known for it’s creative dishes and is a good spot for breakfast or lunch.
Price Range: Affordable.
Why it’s a Must-Visit: For a healthy, delicious, and affordable vegan meal in a cozy setting.
Seeds for the Soul
A popular spot offering a vibrant menu of fully vegan comfort food favorites.
Type of Cuisine: Vegan Comfort Food.
Atmosphere and Ambiance: Bright, cheerful, and casual.
Standout Dishes: Expect vegan burgers, mac and cheese, loaded fries, and other indulgent treats. They also have some delicious desserts.
Price Range: Mid-range.
Why it’s a Must-Visit: For satisfying vegan comfort food that will leave you feeling full and happy.
Considerit
If you’re looking for a vegan sugar rush, this bakery is it. This cafe is known for their vegan doughnuts, pastries, and coffee.
Type of Cuisine: Vegan Bakery/Cafe
Atmosphere and Ambiance: Relaxed, casual and welcoming.
Standout Dishes: Vegan donuts in various flavors, vegan ice cream, vegan coffee, and cakes.
Price Range: Affordable.
Why it’s a Must-Visit: For vegan sweets.
Novapizza Vegan Kitchen
Pizza lovers, rejoice! Novapizza is a completely vegan pizzeria serving up delicious, plant-based pizzas with creative toppings.
Type of Cuisine: Vegan Pizza.
Atmosphere and Ambiance: Casual and lively.
Standout Dishes: Vegan pizzas with various toppings.
Price Range: Mid-range.
Why it’s a Must-Visit: For a taste of vegan pizza perfection.
Vegan-Friendly Restaurants
Beyond the dedicated vegan restaurants, many establishments in Edinburgh offer excellent vegan options. These restaurants may not be entirely vegan, but they are accommodating to plant-based eaters and have creative vegan dishes on their menus:
Oink
A popular Scottish takeaway place that makes delicious, juicy pork rolls. The restaurant has a clearly marked vegan haggis roll that tastes just as great as it’s non-vegan counterpart.
Type of Cuisine: Scottish Takeaway.
Vegan dishes available: Vegan Haggis Roll.
How accommodating they are to vegan requests: They’re upfront and helpful about vegan options.
The Auld Hoose
A traditional pub in Edinburgh with a number of vegan options like burgers, burritos, haggis and desserts. This pub is open to late, usually past 2am, and is a good place to grab a beer and some vegan snacks.
Type of Cuisine: Pub Food
Vegan dishes available: Vegan burgers, vegan burritos, vegan haggis and vegan desserts.
How accommodating they are to vegan requests: The waiters are helpful and will answer any questions.
Cafes and Bakeries with Vegan Options
For a quick bite or a sweet treat, Edinburgh’s cafes and bakeries offer a tempting array of vegan options:
Black Rabbit Coffee Co
A modern coffee shop offering delicious coffee, pastries, and vegan sandwiches. This is a good spot to grab a quick bite.
Vegan pastries, cakes, sandwiches, etc.: Several pastries and sandwiches available.
Coffee and other vegan drinks: Yes, oat and almond milk.
Atmosphere: Modern and minimalist.
Pumpkin Brown
A cafe that offers salads, soups, and desserts. Pumpkin Brown uses mainly organic ingredients and has a focus on health.
Vegan pastries, cakes, sandwiches, etc.: Several pastries and sandwiches available.
Coffee and other vegan drinks: Yes, oat and almond milk.
Atmosphere: Cozy and welcoming.
Budget-Friendly Vegan Eats in Edinburgh
Eating vegan in Edinburgh doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some tips for enjoying delicious plant-based meals on a budget:
Cooking your own meals: Edinburgh has numerous supermarkets with great vegan sections, and farmers markets with local produce.
Affordable Vegan Options: Holy Cow and Seeds for the Soul offers a variety of affordable meals.
Supermarkets: Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and other major supermarkets have extensive vegan sections with ready-to-eat meals, snacks, and ingredients.
Vegan Grocery Shopping
For those planning to cook their own meals, Edinburgh offers several options for vegan grocery shopping:
Major Supermarkets: Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Marks & Spencer, and other major supermarkets have expanded their vegan product lines significantly. You can find everything from vegan cheese and meat alternatives to plant-based milk and ready-to-eat meals.
Specialty Vegan Shops: Smaller health food stores and specialty vegan shops offer a wider selection of niche vegan products and ingredients.
Farmers Markets: Edinburgh’s farmers markets are a great place to buy fresh, local produce directly from the producers. This is a great way to support local farmers and enjoy seasonal ingredients.
Tips for Vegan Travelers in Edinburgh
Traveling as a vegan can be easier with a bit of planning. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth and delicious experience in Edinburgh:
Use Vegan Apps: Apps like HappyCow are invaluable for finding vegan restaurants and cafes near you.
Learn Basic Scottish Phrases: Knowing a few basic phrases, such as “Is this vegan?” or “Do you have any vegan options?”, can be helpful.
Be Prepared to Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask restaurant staff about ingredients and preparation methods. Most places are happy to accommodate vegan requests.
Explore Beyond the City Center: Venture out of the city center to discover hidden vegan gems in Edinburgh’s neighborhoods.
Conclusion
Edinburgh has truly blossomed into a vegan-friendly city, offering a diverse and delicious array of plant-based options to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply curious about exploring the world of plant-based cuisine, Edinburgh is a destination that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you feeling inspired. So, pack your bags, bring your appetite, and get ready to discover the delicious side of vegan Edinburgh. Now it’s your turn. Share your favorite vegan spots in Edinburgh in the comments below!
