As evidenced by the creation of the ‘Impossible Burger’ at Burger King recently, a meat-free patty which mimics the flavour and running-juices of real cooked flesh, the popularity of plant-based alternatives has never been more popular.
To prove that plant-based food can be diverse, decadent, fun, and delicious, online travel guide Trip 101 has curated the best hotspots for vegans and vegetarians worldwide by local experts.
United Kingdom
The word ‘vegan’ was coined approximately 70 years ago by an English animal rights advocate, Donald Watson. Together with a group of like-minded individuals, he founded The Vegan Society in 1944, which is still active in England. Moreover, in view of the strong vegan and vegetarian traditions and the number of vegan offerings in England, it’s not surprising that many vegan travellers have no issue finding truly tantalizing plant-based meals.
Recommended spots include:
Southampton – Cafe Thrive – www.cafethrive.co.uk
London – St Lukes Table – www.stlukestable.com
Cardiff – Anna Loka – www.anna-loka.com
Gateshead – Grumpy Panda www.grumpypandafood.com
Cambridge – Liutaio Music Cafe – www.liutaio.co.uk
Middle-East
Israel has long been considered the capital of vegan dining since the civil war in 1948 which impacted the availability and affordability of meat. Israeli cuisine is naturally plant-based and uses vegetables, legumes and grains. The coastal city of Tel Aviv boasts Israel’s best vegan-friendly restaurants and has launched the world’s largest vegan festival that draws tens of thousands of vegan and vegetarian visitors annually.
Recommended spots include Te’emin (facebook.com/teenim) , a restaurant located in an old-stone building overlooking the walls of the Old City.
Asia
Harmonising the contrasting tastes of sweet, sour, savoury and bitter, with the aid of seasonal vegetables, aromatic garlic and bountiful herbs, Asian chefs can add a whole new flavour dimension.
Recommended spots include:
Aditya City, India – Harista Cafe and Pizzeria – www.haristo.in
Chiang Mai, Thailand – Amrita Garden – www.amritagarden.net
The Philippines – Two ChickPeas – Facebook.com/twochickpeas
United States of America
For most diners, American cuisine is often synonymous with greasy meats, accompanied by overcooked vegetables playing a supporting role. Yet, the chefs in these restaurants give a healthier and animal-friendly spin to the classic American breakfast and burgers, starring the natural flavours of ingredients that were once thought of as secondary to meat.
Recommended spots include:
New York City – By Chloe – www.eatbychloe.com
Los Angeles – Gracias Madre – www.graciasmadreweho.com
Washington D.C. – Hip City Veg – www.hipcityveg.com
Chicago – Urban Vegan – www.urbanveganchicago.com