Plant-based eating is not simply a trend in London, but rather a full-blown foodie revolution. The UK capital is swamped with vegan eateries, markets, and restaurants. Knowing where to dive in can be daunting so thankfully Sean O’Callaghan has five ethical food experiences you will not want to miss…

Wulf & Lamb

Being the new vegan kid on the block hasn’t stood in the way of landing this Sloane Square fast casual restaurant at the top of many ‘best in London’ lists. Diners rave about the modern cuisine menu showcasing raw cheesecakes, decadent burgers, and the finest vegan mac and cheese in the city. Top marks also go to the exquisite interiors and furniture.

Temple of Hackney

Opening a year ago to mammoth queues and a veritable media frenzy, this vegan fried chicken shop is as close to legendary a food outlet can get. Customers travel from all over the UK to eat here (and sometimes further afield), marvelling at the juicy seitan pieces covered in an irresistibly crunchy coating. Styled after the fried chicken shops synonymous with the city, customers choose from sides of gravy, chips, and coleslaw.

Cook Daily

Owner and head chef King is known as the rock star of the London vegan food scene. His Shoreditch outlet reigns over the hip Boxpark retail centre while he counts some of the biggest names in music and entertainment amongst his clientele. But it’s not all posturing and pomp. Cook Daily serves piping hot noodle, rice and soup dishes that remain unmatched for taste and quality in the capital.

Café Van Gogh

Heading south of the Thames doesn’t mean you have to miss out on delicious and nutritious vegan food. Brixton eatery Café Van Gogh has built a loyal following by plating up generous portions of comfort food. Favourite dishes include zesty stews, Sunday roast dinners, and salad-packed wraps. Bonus appreciation goes to the café for being a non-profit social enterprise.

Young Vegans

Look no further than Young Vegans of Camden if you want a traditional British eating experience. This tiny food outlet packs a surprising punch with mouth watering savoury pies served with creamy mashed potato and rich gravy. The seitan and ale pie is by far one of the tastiest things you will devour in London. Be sure to leave room for their award winning mud pie brownies.

About Sean: splitting his time between London and Mexico City, Sean is well known to readers as blogger Fat Gay Vegan. He founded the Vegan Beer Fest UK events as well as a weekly vegan street food market in Hackney. His book Fat Gay Vegan: Eat, Drink and Live Like You Give a Sh!t is published by Nourish Books in January (£8.99)

Ideal For

Ethical eaters.