Written by Elaine Frieman
Whether you follow a plant-based diet or not, when travelling around the world, it's often more budget-friendly to embrace the fresh, wonderful vegan-friendly food on offer. We live in a world that is moving towards more sustainable choices: whether that is Veganuary, dry January, or a much-needed focus on mental health, the focus is on wellbeing and reducing our planetary impact. Even though many vegans lament that their only option in cafes is avocado on toast (if they’re lucky), abroad there are often lots of opportunities to celebrate plant-based cuisine. Let's explore some vegan-friendly destinations.
#1 Berlin, Germany
Berlin has earned a reputation as one of the most vegan-friendly cities in the world by boasting over one hundred vegan restaurants and cafes. The German capital has a plethora of vegan restaurants, ranging from traditional German fare with a vegan twist to diverse international options. Must-visit spots include Kopps, a fine dining establishment offering creative plant-based dishes, and Brammibal's Donuts, renowned for its delectable vegan doughnuts.
#2 Chiang Mai, Thailand
Thailand, known for its rich culinary heritage, is a haven for vegans, and Chiang Mai stands out as a top destination. From aromatic curries to street food favourites like pad Thai and mango sticky rice, Chiang Mai's diverse and flavorful plant-based options delight the taste buds. Visit places like Pun Pun for organic, farm-to-table vegan dishes or Anchan Vegetarian Restaurant for a creative take on Thai cuisine.
#3 Portland, USA
Portland, Oregon, has earned its stripes as a vegan paradise in the United States. The city is home to an abundance of vegan-friendly restaurants, food carts, and bakeries. Blossoming Lotus, which was started in Hawaii and now has a restaurant in Portland, offers a tantalising array of Eastern style and creative vegan dishes, while Vtopia Cheese Shop & Deli (women-owned and run) satisfies cravings for artisanal vegan cheeses (made from cashews). Portland's commitment to sustainability extends beyond food, making it a holistic destination for eco-conscious travellers.
#4 Kyoto, Japan
While Japan may be synonymous with sushi, Kyoto has emerged as a vegan-friendly destination, embracing the plant-based lifestyle without compromising on traditional Japanese flavours. Shigetsu, located within the iconic Tenryu-ji Temple, offers shojin ryori, a form of vegan Buddhist cuisine that showcases the essence of Japanese culinary artistry. Explore local markets for vegan street food and discover the simplicity and elegance of plant-based Japanese dishes.
#5 Melbourne, Australia
Australia's culinary capital, Melbourne, embraces the vegan lifestyle with a creative and dynamic food scene. Stroll through the city's laneways to discover vegan-friendly cafes, food trucks, and upscale dining establishments. Transformer Fitzroy is celebrated for its plant-based menu, offering a diverse range of flavours, while Smith & Daughters brings a touch of vegan Latin American cuisine to the table.
#6 Bali, Indonesia
Bali, known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, is also a haven for vegan travellers. The island's commitment to wellness and sustainability is reflected in its plant-based culinary offerings. Sakti Dining Room at Fivelements offers a gourmet plant-based dining experience amidst lush surroundings, while local warungs (small restaurants) serve up traditional Balinese vegan fare such as Nasi Goreng. Locals eat it for breakfast even and it always comes in a vegan option (yum!).
The takeaways
Exploring vegan-friendly destinations around the world is not only about finding suitable food options but it's also a journey into the heart of diverse culinary traditions that celebrate the beauty and abundance of plant-based cuisine. These destinations showcase the global evolution of a lifestyle that is sustainable and delicious. So, even if you aren't vegan, and you happen to find yourself in these locations, are there any plant-based foods you'd try?
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