London is a city that is quickly becoming a haven for vegans. With an increasing number of restaurants and cafes offering plant-based options, it can be difficult to know where to start. That’s where this guide comes in – it’s a comprehensive list of the best vegan cafes in London, perfect for those looking for a delicious and sustainable meal.
From classic cafes to new up-and-comers, this guide has it all. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty slice of cake or a tasty alternative to your usual cafe fare, there’s something for everyone. So sit back, relax, and let this guide take you on a journey through the best vegan cafes London has to offer.
Key Takeaways
- London has a growing number of vegan cafes that offer delicious plant-based alternatives to traditional cafe fare.
- This guide provides a comprehensive list of the best vegan cafes in London, including classic spots and new up-and-comers.
- Whether you’re in the mood for a slice of cake or a hearty meal, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Best Vegan Cafes in London
London is a hub of vegan cafes that offer a wide range of plant-based meals to satisfy any palate. Here are some of the best vegan cafes in London that are worth checking out.
Cafe Van Gogh
Located in Brixton, Cafe Van Gogh is a not-for-profit cafe that trains young people with learning disabilities to develop independence and get a job in the future. The cafe changes its menu every few months to keep things fresh and exciting for its customers. Cafe Van Gogh offers a great selection of vegan meals that are both delicious and affordable.
Vida Bakery
Vida Bakery is situated in Shoreditch and was founded by a member who had trouble finding a cafe that met her dietary needs. The cafe offers a range of colourful cakes that are gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan-friendly. Vida Bakery’s cakes are delicious and have a loyal following in the vegan community.
Kin Cafe
Kin Cafe, located in Fitzrovia, is one of the best vegan cafes in London. The cafe offers a relaxed atmosphere and has a range of heartier dishes, including a popular chickpea curry and a full vegan breakfast. Kin Cafe is a great spot to grab a quick coffee or enjoy a meal with friends.
Vegan Yes
In Shoreditch, Vegan Yes offers Italian-Korean fusion dishes that are infused with healthy living philosophies. The cafe has a casual atmosphere and is perfect for a quick meet-up with friends. Vegan Yes is a must-visit for anyone looking for unique and delicious vegan meals.
Andu Ethiopian Cafe
Andu Ethiopian Cafe is the UK’s first vegan Ethiopian restaurant and is located in Dalston. The cafe offers plates of Ethiopian curry and vegetables that each pack a totally unique flavour. You can try this the traditional way served on injera, a type of flatbread, or as a sampler on a plate to share. Andu Ethiopian Cafe is a popular spot, so be prepared to queue or book ahead.
Avobar
If you’re looking for a vegan cafe in a central London location, Avobar in Covent Garden is a great choice. The cafe offers a range of plant-based dishes, including avocado on toast, and is flooded with natural light on a sunny day. The cafe’s interior is sleek and modern, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy a meal.
Cookies and Scream
Cookies and Scream in Finsbury Park has been providing London with gluten-free, dairy-free, egg- and wheat-free baked goods since 2010. The cafe’s cakes are light and fluffy and sit alongside a tantalising display of cookies and brownies that demand eating. Cookies and Scream also offers thick-as-anything Scream Shakes that are blended with the cafe’s secret sauce and cookies and brownies.
We Are Vegan Everything
We Are Vegan Everything, also known as WAVE, is a Hackney cafe that offers a range of vegan bites and killer cupcakes. The cafe has two locations, both of which are charmingly slick and perfect for passing hours chilling. We Are Vegan Everything’s Hackney location has a suntrap back yard that is perfect for enjoying a meal or a coffee.
Gallery Café
Located in Bethnal Green, Gallery Cafe is the eatery of east-London community hub, St. Margaret’s House. The cafe offers affordable vegan meals for breakfast or lunch and has lovely outside seating to enjoy it on. Gallery Cafe also mixes spaces to hangout with places to eat, host exhibitions and generally generate a bit of community pride.
The Gleaners Cafe
The Gleaners Cafe in Walthamstow serves the community in more ways than just serving up delicious vegan food. The cafe is part of the Hornbeam Community Cafe and Environment Centre and is all about the protection of the community of Walthamstow Forest, especially when it comes to food insecurity. The Gleaners Cafe offers pay-what-you-feel rates for its food and prepares it with sustainable ethics in mind.
Essential Vegan Café
Essential Vegan Cafe has been around for a decade and operates out of Dalston. The cafe offers a range of light vegan food, including sandwiches, burgers, curries, and soups. Essential Vegan Cafe also has a spread of cakes to nibble on alongside a coffee.
The Feelgood Café
The Feelgood Cafe in Chingford takes things one step further by not only being gluten and dairy-free but also removing refined sugars from its cooking. The cafe’s cakes are straight proof that you don’t need to fill food with crap to make it taste good and are ideal for a bit of Instagram food posting. The Feelgood Cafe believes wholeheartedly that what you put in your body makes a big difference in your health and happiness and wants to promote a happy diet to all its customers.
Practical Tips for Exploring the Best Vegan Cafes in London
For those interested in exploring the vegan cafes in London, there are a few practical tips to keep in mind. Firstly, it’s important to note that many of these cafes operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and booking may not always be an option. However, if you’re planning to visit with a large group, it may be worth calling ahead to let them know.
If you only have time to visit one vegan cafe in London, Cafe Van Gough comes highly recommended. Not only is the food delicious, but the cafe also supports a good cause, making the experience even more enjoyable.
Finally, if you’re curious about the ingredients used in the food, don’t hesitate to ask. Vegan cafes are typically transparent about their ingredients, and the staff are usually more than happy to answer any questions you may have.