As the world becomes more conscious about the environmental impact of animal agriculture, the demand for vegan-friendly cities is on the rise. Fortunately, cities across the globe are responding to this demand by offering a plethora of plant-based restaurants, stores, and events. Here are the top 10 vegan-friendly cities around the world to head to for your vegan travels:
Berlin, Germany
Known as the vegan capital of Europe, Berlin is at the top of our list of vegan-friendly cities. It offers an extensive range of vegan restaurants, cafes, and shops. From vegan cheese shops to vegan kebab stands, Berlin has it all.
In Berlin, veganism has become a way of life. With its vibrant and diverse food scene, the city showcases an array of innovative and delicious plant-based options. When visiting Berlin, make sure to explore the famous Prenzlauer Berg neighborhood, where you can find an abundance of vegan restaurants that cater to all tastes and preferences.
Start your day with a visit to one of the city’s beloved vegan cafes. Enjoy a steaming cup of almond milk cappuccino paired with a freshly baked vegan croissant or a hearty bowl of plant-based granola. For lunch, indulge in the culinary wonders of Berlin’s vegan kebab stands. In the evening, venture into the heart of Berlin’s vibrant vegan scene, where you’ll discover an array of trendy and upscale vegan restaurants.
Portland, Oregon, USA
Portland is a hub of veganism in the United States, thanks to its acclaimed vegan restaurants, vegan-friendly coffee shops, and vegan clothing stores. In Portland, Oregon, veganism is not just a dietary choice, but a way of life. The city has gained a reputation as a mecca for plant-based eaters, with an abundance of vegan-friendly options that cater to all tastes and preferences.
When exploring Portland’s vegan scene, one cannot miss the city’s celebrated vegan restaurants. From trendy vegan bistros to cozy cafes, Portland offers a diverse range of dining establishments that showcase the creativity and innovation of plant-based cuisine. The city is also home to numerous vegan-friendly coffee shops that serve up plant-based dairy alternatives and delectable vegan pastries. In addition to its exceptional food scene, Portland offers a wide array of vegan clothing stores for fashion-forward plant-based individuals.
Tel Aviv, Israel
A lit of vegan-friendly cities can never be complete without Tel Aviv. It’s vegan-friendly city that considers itself the vegan “capital of the world”. Nearly every restaurant in Tel Aviv offers at least one vegan option, while vegan festivals and markets are common. In Tel Aviv, veganism has become more than just a dietary choice; it represents an ideology and lifestyle that aligns with the city’s progressive and forward-thinking mindset.
For vegans visiting Tel Aviv, the options are endless. Almost every restaurant in the city offers at least one vegan option, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. From trendy plant-based eateries to traditional Middle Eastern restaurants, Tel Aviv has it all. Vegan diners can indulge in delectable dishes like falafel, hummus, sabich, and shawarma, all crafted with plant-based ingredients that deliver the same authentic taste and experience.
Melbourne, Australia
Another one of the must-visit vegan-friendly cities is Melbourne. It has one of the highest per capita rates of veganism in the world. There are more than 100 vegan restaurants in the city, as well as a strong vegan community that hosts events year-round.
In addition to its vibrant vegan community and wide selection of vegan restaurants, Melbourne is also known for its thriving vegan events scene. Throughout the year, the city plays host to numerous vegan festivals, markets, and workshops that showcase the best of plant-based living.
One of the most anticipated events on the vegan calendar is the Melbourne Vegan Festival, which takes place annually in the heart of the city. This vibrant and lively festival attracts vegans and non-vegans alike, offering a diverse range of food stalls, live entertainment, cooking demonstrations, and informative talks by renowned figures in the vegan community. It’s a celebration of all things plant-based and provides a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for veganism.
Plus, while you’re in Australia you can visit the Great Barrier Reef, or even participate in ocean cleanup. These are some activities that you can’t do in other inland destinations, and should definitely be checked out by any adventurous traveler.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Known for its vegetarian cuisine, Chiang Mai has embraced veganism as well. The city has a wide range of vegan restaurants and street food vendors that offer traditional Thai cuisine with a vegan twist.
Start your culinary journey in Chiang Mai by exploring the famous Saturday Night Walking Street. As you stroll along the bustling streets, your senses will be ignited by the aromas of sizzling stir-fries, fragrant curries, and mouthwatering noodle dishes. Look out for the vegan-friendly stalls that proudly display their plant-based offerings. From delectable Pad Thai made with tofu or vegetables to rich and creamy coconut-based curries, you’ll be spoiled for choice.
If you’re in the mood for a light and refreshing meal, head to one of Chiang Mai’s many vegan-friendly salad cafes. These health-conscious establishments offer an array of vibrant and nutrient-packed salads, bursting with fresh herbs, crunchy vegetables, and zesty dressings. Try the popular green papaya salad or the fragrant mango salad for a true taste of Thailand.
For a more traditional experience, venture out to the city’s famous street food scene. Chiang Mai’s vegan street food vendors have perfected the art of creating vegan versions of beloved Thai dishes. Sink your teeth into a fluffy and flavorful mango sticky rice, or indulge in a crispy spring roll filled with a medley of vegetables and herbs. Don’t forget to sample the iconic Thai desserts like coconut ice cream or banana roti, which can be made vegan by substituting dairy products with plant-based alternatives.
London, UK
London has become a vegan paradise, with a rapidly expanding vegan scene that shows no sign of slowing down. New vegan restaurants and cafes are popping up regularly, offering a wide range of plant-based options that cater to all tastes and preferences.
One of the most exciting additions to London’s vegan scene is the world-famous vegan chain, By Chloe. Originating from New York City, By Chloe has made its mark in London, offering delicious and innovative plant-based dishes that have garnered a loyal following. From their famous guacamole burgers to their mouthwatering mac and cheese, By Chloe provides a taste of vegan comfort food at its finest.
In addition to By Chloe, London boasts a plethora of vegan restaurants that showcase the city’s diverse and multicultural food scene. Whether you’re craving vegan Indian cuisine, Mexican street food, or a hearty vegan Sunday roast, you’ll find it all in the bustling streets of London. From upscale vegan fine dining establishments to trendy vegan fast casual spots, the options are endless.
But it’s not just about restaurants. London is also home to numerous vegan bakeries, where you can indulge in freshly baked vegan pastries, cakes, and bread. You can satisfy your sweet tooth with a decadent chocolate brownie or a delicate vegan croissant. And if you’re in the mood for some vegan shopping, there are also vegan clothing stores and beauty shops that offer cruelty-free and eco-friendly products.
Los Angeles, California, USA
LA is a city that’s always on the cutting edge of trends, and veganism is no exception. The city has a range of vegan options, from high-end eateries to food trucks.
For those looking for a high-end dining experience, LA has no shortage of upscale vegan eateries that cater to the most discerning palates. From elegant plant-based sushi restaurants to farm-to-table vegan bistros, these establishments showcase the creativity and innovation of LA’s vegan chefs. Indulge in dishes like artfully crafted jackfruit tacos, delicate vegetable sushi rolls, and flavorful mushroom risottos that will leave you satisfied and impressed.
If you’re more of an adventurous eater, explore LA’s vibrant food truck scene, where you can find an array of vegan options that will tantalize your taste buds. Join the line at a vegan taco truck and bite into crispy tofu, marinated mushrooms, and vibrant salsa packed into warm tortillas. Or head to a vegan burger food truck and sink your teeth into juicy plant-based patties served with all the classic toppings. LA’s food trucks provide a laid-back and casual way to enjoy delicious vegan fare while soaking up the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
Taipei, Taiwan
Taipei is known for its street food, and the vegan options are just as delicious, making it one of the top vegan-friendly cities in our list. There are plenty of vegan restaurants in the city, and veganism is gaining popularity in the country.
One must-visit spot for vegan street food in Taipei is the famous Shilin Night Market. This bustling market is a food lover’s paradise, with countless stalls selling everything from traditional Taiwanese snacks to international street eats. As a vegan, you’ll be delighted to find a plethora of plant-based options amidst the chaos. Sink your teeth into vegan versions of popular street food staples like stinky tofu, fried scallion pancakes, and bubble tea. You’ll be amazed at the creativity and flavors that can be achieved without animal products.
For those seeking a more upscale dining experience, Taipei is home to several acclaimed vegan restaurants. One standout is Ooh Cha Cha, a trendy eatery that specializes in vegan comfort food. From their famous vegan fried chicken to indulgent mac and cheese, Ooh Cha Cha offers a delicious twist on classic comfort dishes. Another must-visit is Mianto, a vegan restaurant known for its innovative plant-based cuisine.
Warsaw, Poland
Warsaw has a burgeoning vegan scene, with over 50 vegan restaurants, cafes, and bakeries in the city. The popularity of veganism is growing quickly in Poland, and Warsaw is leading the way.
When visiting Warsaw, make sure to check out the trendy vegan cafes that line the streets. Start your morning with a cup of aromatic fair-trade coffee paired with a freshly baked vegan pastry at one of the city’s charming vegan bakeries. Indulge in flaky croissants, decadent chocolate-filled muffins, or fragrant cinnamon rolls that will delight your taste buds.
For a hearty lunch or dinner, head to one of Warsaw’s diverse vegan restaurants. From traditional Polish cuisines with a vegan twist to international dishes from around the world, Warsaw has it all. Try the vegan pierogi, a beloved Polish dumpling filled with a variety of flavorful plant-based fillings such as potato and mushroom or spinach and tofu. Savor the vegan borscht, a traditional beetroot soup that is rich in flavor and color. And don’t forget about the vegan kielbasa, a Polish sausage made from plant-based ingredients that perfectly captures the essence of the original.
Toronto, Canada
Toronto is home to a number of innovative and delicious vegan restaurants and one of the best vegan-friendly cities out there. One of the highlights of Toronto’s vegan scene is the annual Vegandale Food Festival. This highly anticipated event brings together some of the city’s best vegan vendors and food trucks for a day of indulgence and celebration. From mouthwatering vegan burgers to delectable dairy-free desserts, the Vegandale Food Festival is a must-visit for any food lover, vegan or not.
For those looking to stock up on vegan goodies, Toronto is home to The Vegan Food Society, a large vegan grocery store. Here, you can find everything you need to create delicious plant-based meals at home, from vegan meats and cheeses to a wide array of plant-based pantry staples. The Vegan Food Society is a one-stop shop for all your vegan grocery needs, and the friendly staff are always ready to offer recommendations and cooking tips.
No matter where you go, you can find delicious vegan options if you know where to look. With these top 10 vegan-friendly cities, plant-based eaters can travel with ease while enjoying some of the best cuisine in the world.
Where in the world should vegans avoid?
There are some places that I don’t recommend vegans go. These are cities and destinations that just don’t fit well with the philosophy. For example, some cultures and cuisines may have a stronger tradition of meat and animal product consumption than others, so it may be more challenging to find vegan options in certain parts of the world. However, this does not necessarily mean that vegans should avoid traveling to these destinations altogether.
With a little research and preparation, it’s often possible to find vegan-friendly restaurants, markets, and other options that can accommodate dietary restrictions.
For example, in some parts of South America, traditional dishes may be heavily meat-based, and it may be challenging to find vegan alternatives. Similarly, in some rural areas, vegan options may be limited due to a lack of access to fresh produce or vegetarian protein sources.
Also, some parts of Asia have large markets selling exotic animals, which may be used for food or traditional medicine. Similarly, some destinations may be known for hunting or fishing, which can be challenging for vegan travelers who want to avoid supporting these practices.
I would specifically avoid these places.
- Buenos Aires, Argentina: While the city has a growing vegan scene, traditional Argentine cuisine is heavily meat-based, and it may be challenging to find vegan alternatives.
- Marrakech, Morocco: Moroccan cuisine features many meat-based dishes, and vegan options may be limited. However, the city does have a growing vegan scene with some excellent plant-based restaurants.
- Hanoi, Vietnam: Some markets in Hanoi sell live animals for food, including dogs and cats, which can be distressing for some travelers.
- Tromsø, Norway: Tromsø is known for its whale-watching tours, which can be problematic for vegan travelers who want to avoid supporting the whaling industry.
- Nairobi, Kenya: While Nairobi is a vegan-friendly city with many plant-based restaurants, some travelers may be uncomfortable with the city’s close proximity to wildlife reserves where hunting and other animal-based industries are practiced.
As a vegan myself, I understand the struggle of finding good food options while traveling. However, these top 10 cities prove that going plant-based doesn’t mean compromising taste or variety. In fact, many of these cities offer vegan options that are even tastier than their meat-based counterparts.
One of my personal favorites where vegan-friendly cities go is Berlin, where you can find vegan versions of everything from traditional German sausages to fast food classics like burgers and hot dogs. But the vegan options don’t stop there—Berlin also has vegan bakeries, ice cream shops, and even a vegan grocery store.
Another city that should be on every vegan traveler’s radar is Tel Aviv. With its warm climate and beach vibes, Tel Aviv is the perfect destination for those looking to indulge in vegan falafel, hummus, and fresh produce. There are also vegan food tours and even a vegan hotel, the Hotel Saul.
For those looking to explore Asia, Chiang Mai should be at the top of your list of vegan-friendly cities to visit. The city is known for its flavorful and spicy Thai cuisine, and many of its vegetarian dishes can easily be made vegan. Plus, the city is surrounded by lush greenery and offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, yoga, and wellness.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking to explore plant-based cuisine, these top 10 cities offer something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your appetite, and get ready to indulge in some seriously delicious vegan food.