Vegan Dining in Cambridge: A Guide to Finding Delicious Plant-Based Options
Cambridge, UK, is a thriving city with a diverse array of dining options, including several places that cater to the vegan lifestyle. While some popular eateries may accidentally offer vegan choices, there are dedicated and mainstream venues that make it easy for vegans to enjoy a delicious and fulfilling meal. This guide will introduce you to the best places to eat in Cambridge, ensuring a satisfying and tasty dining experience.
1. Rainbow
While Rainbow is Cambridge's only dedicated vegetarian and vegan restaurant, it's well worth a visit. Located in the heart of the city, Rainbow offers a variety of plant-based dishes that cater to both casual dining and more formal meals. The restaurant's commitment to vegan cuisine makes it a must-visit for both locals and visitors.
2. Pop-Up and Temporary Venues
Join the growing trend of pop-up restaurants, such as The Curly Kale Cafe. This temporary venue offers a unique dining experience that combines fun and creativity with delicious vegan dishes. Although Rainbow remains the dedicated vegan restaurant, pop-ups like The Curly Kale Cafe can bring new and exciting options to the city's food scene, making it easier for vegans to enjoy versatile dining options.
3. Mainstream Restaurants with Vegan Options
Many general restaurants in Cambridge now offer vegan alternatives, often without the need for special requests. Thai and Vietnamese noodle bars like Bangkok City and Thanh Binh are particularly known for their vegan-friendly dishes, as dairy frequently plays a minimal role in these cuisines. Additionally, Indian restaurants like Rice Boat in Newnham provide clear labeling for their dairy-free options, helping vegans navigate the menu more easily.
4. Hidden Vegan Gems
While dedicated vegan options may be less common in mainstream restaurants, there are still hidden gems that offer plant-based choices. For example, Algerian restaurants such as Al Casbah and Bedouin on Mill Road occasionally serve vegan options, while Korean places like Bibimbap and Little Seoul on Mill Road and Regent Street sometimes offer vegan dishes too. Italian joints such as La Margherita on Bridge Street, Jamies Italian on Peas Hill, and De Luca on Hills Road can also provide suitable options upon request.
5. Convenience and Ready-Made Options
Besides dedicated or vegan-friendly restaurants, general stores and cafes offer convenient plant-based choices. The Taste of Cambridge, for instance, provides delicious falafel wraps on weekdays. Additionally, supermarkets like MS (though the exact store name is unspecified) have premade salads and grain-based options that are vegan, along with green salads. Other options include a jacket potato filled with beans, which is generally safe for vegans as long as it's made with a vegetarian variety and no cheese or butter is added.
6. Health Stores and Bakeshops
Health food stores and bakeshops often offer a variety of vegan treats. One such place near the Round Church on St. Andrews Street offers hummus, falafel, and salads in baguette form. Additionally, the same store provides vegan sausage rolls, though they can be quite greasy. Another popular option is Booja Booja's chocolates, which are not only vegan but also exceptionally delicious.
Conclusion
Cambridge is a vibrant city for vegans, offering a range of options from dedicated restaurants to hidden vegan gems. Whether you're looking for a quick meal, a special outing, or convenience, there are plenty of places to satisfy your cravings. Whether you visit Rainbow or a pop-up like The Curly Kale Cafe, you'll find a bounty of plant-based delights to enjoy. Happy dining!