Where can you find vegan dining options in Edinburgh's Old Town?
The quaint cobbled streets of Edinburgh's Old Town are not just a paradise for history buffs, but also for those who prefer their meals plant-based. The Scottish city has seen an influx of vegan-friendly restaurants and cafes in recent years, with the plant-powered community expanding at an incredible rate. This has seen the Old Town, steeped in centuries of tradition, embracing the contemporary vegan lifestyle with enthusiasm.
Discovering Vegan Breakfast Options
What's a better way to start your day than with a hearty vegan breakfast? Fortunately, Edinburgh's Old Town houses several spots where you can kickstart your morning on a vegan note.
The Baked Potato Shop, situated on Cockburn Street, is an excellent place for a breakfast fix. This eatery has been serving baked potatoes since 1983 and currently offers a mouth-watering range of vegan fillings. You can opt for the ever-popular beans and cheese or choose from their vast list of vegan options.
On the other hand, if you fancy a sweeter start to your day, head over to The Caffeine Drip on Frederick Street. This South African-inspired cafe offers an extensive menu with several vegan options. Their vegan French toast, topped with maple syrup and fruit, is an absolute crowd-pleaser.
Vegan-Friendly Lunch and Dinner Restaurants
The midday meal and evening feasts in Edinburgh’s Old Town are also a vegan's delight. There's an array of restaurants offering plant-based menus that cater to every palate and preference.
Novapizza on Howe Street is one such gem. This vegan and vegetarian Italian restaurant serves up a range of delicious pizzas, pastas, and risottos, all of which are entirely plant-based. Their vegan cheesecake is also a must-try for any dessert lover.
Meanwhile, David Bann on St Mary’s Street offers a unique blend of British and international cuisine. With a majority of the dishes being vegan, it's a perfect dining spot for anyone wanting to explore a global gastronomic experience.
A Vegan Bar Scene in Edinburgh
Even the bar scene in Edinburgh's Old Town is increasingly catering to vegan patrons. Numerous bars now offer plant-based food options and vegan-friendly drinks.
The Auld Hoose on St. Leonard's Street is a traditional Scottish pub with a twist - they have an extensive vegan menu. From vegan nachos to a range of vegan burgers, this bar is a haven for vegan foodies.
On the other hand, Holyrood 9A, located near the Scottish Parliament, offers a selection of vegan burgers and beers. Here, you can enjoy a relaxed evening in a cosy ambiance while sipping on vegan-friendly ale.
Vegan Cafes for a Casual Bite
For those looking for a quick bite or a casual meet-up spot, the vegan-friendly cafes in Edinburgh's Old Town are a great choice.
Seeds for the Soul on Bruntsfield Place is one such place. This completely vegan café offers a range of sandwiches, cakes, and smoothie bowls. It is also gluten-free, making it a great spot for those with dietary restrictions.
Hula Juice Bar on West Bow is another excellent option. This cafe is famous for its smoothie bowls and vegan soups. Whether you want a healthy breakfast or a quick lunch, this place fits the bill.
Edinburgh's Old Town is a treasure trove for food enthusiasts. Its ever-evolving food scene has managed to stay abreast of dietary trends, catering to diverse preferences. Whether it is a classic Scottish pub, a trendy bar, an Italian restaurant, or a cosy café, there are vegan-friendly options everywhere. So, next time you find yourselves in this historic part of the city, fear not. There is a vegan dish waiting to be devoured at every corner.
Vegan Sweet Treats and Desserts
Don't forget to save room for dessert when dining out in Edinburgh’s Old Town as the area does not disappoint when it comes to vegan sweet treats.
Holy Cow is nestled on Elder Street and is a must-visit for dessert lovers. This café boasts an entirely vegan menu, and their homemade cakes, cookies, and brownies are to die for. No doubt, the café ensures their heavenly desserts are made using organic and locally sourced ingredients, maintaining the high quality of their offerings.
For ice-cream lovers, Sora Lella, located on Canongate, is a vegan paradise. This vegan ice-cream shop offers a variety of flavours, using the best plant-based ingredients. Their menu options include an array of creative flavours, from classic chocolate and vanilla to unique options like spicy ginger and lavender.
Vegan-Friendly Markets and Stores
For those who prefer to cook their meals or are looking for vegan products to take home, Edinburgh's Old Town is home to several vegan-friendly markets and stores.
Seeds for the Soul not only serves delectable sandwiches and cakes, but it also operates as a mini-market, selling a range of vegan goods. From plant-based snacks to vegan beauty products, you’re sure to find something that piques your interest.
In addition, Placeholder Miles on Clerk Street is a well-stocked vegan store that offers a wide variety of vegan groceries. They have an assortment of items from fresh fruits and vegetables to vegan cheeses, chocolates, and plant-based meats.
Conclusion
The vegan dining scene in Edinburgh's Old Town is thriving and diverse, truly a testament to the city's embracing of plant-based living. From the best vegan breakfasts at The Baked Potato Shop and The Caffeine Drip, to hearty lunches and dinners at Novapizza and David Bann, along with sweet treats at Holy Cow and Sora Lella, you'll never be short of vegan options.
The vegan-friendly bar scene at The Auld Hoose and Holyrood 9A ensures you can wash down your meals with a vegan-friendly ale. Plus, stores like Seeds for the Soul and Placeholder Miles allow you to continue your vegan lifestyle at home.
It’s clear that Edinburgh Old Town is more than prepared to cater to the needs of the vegan traveller. The next time you visit, rest assured knowing you'll find a wide variety of high-quality, delicious, and entirely plant-based food options. Edinburgh's Old Town is truly a vegan paradise, making your vegan travel an unforgettable gastronomic journey.