Tofu Vegan, Islington
Xi’an Impression is a much-loved Chinese restaurant and takeaway in north London, so it’s no wonder its more recently opened establishment, Tofu Vegan, is similarly proving a hit with locals. The entire menu is plant-based, with imitation meats, mushrooms and tofu taking centre-stage. The team of chefs bring expertise from both the southern and northeastern regions of China, resulting in a menu that spans regional flavours. Diners can enjoy favourites like dim sum and wonton soup, as well as vegan versions of big hitters such as gong bao chicken and twice-cooked fish, and even Peking duck. This popular spot has quickly grown a reputation, so be sure to book ahead to avoid disappointment.
105 Upper Street, N1 1QN; tofuvega.com
The Vurger Co, Shoreditch
Sometimes some indulgent comfort food is the only thing that will hit the spot. The Vurger Co delicacy is meat-free burgers, which they’ve been serving up for more than five years. It’s made a home for itself in Canary Wharf and Shoreditch, and you’ll also find the restaurant in Brighton too. From the Classic to the New York Melt, made with a Beyond Meat patty, each burger offering is packed with flavour. As you’d hope from any fast-food restaurant, the side selection is extensive too. There are fries aplenty, as well as tater tots and mac and cheese. And, if you have space for it, a cream-topped shake will round off the meal too. The Vurger Co’s vegan mayos and cheezy sauce are also available to buy separately through its online shop and Ocado.
Unit 9, Avant Garde Building, 6 Richmix Square, E1 6LD; thevurgerco.com
Mao Chow, Hackney
Julian Denis and Harry Fox are on a mission to prove that vegan food isn’t boring. Mao Chow in London Fields – and the newly-opened Mao Chow Express in Shoreditch – serve up completely vegan takeaway favourites which pack a punch. At the Express branch, Char Siu Bao delivers the sweet and sticky Cantonese sauce you’d hope for, but with a plant-based alternative to the typical pork tenderloin. “Prawn” toast and “beef jerky” fried rice are similarly tempting. In the cosy London Fields establishment, tuck into smacked cucumber, chongqing cauliflower and wanza noodles. With an interest in fermented flavours, Fox even makes Mao Chow’s soy sauce and douchi.
159a Mare Street, E8 3RH; mao-chow.com
Purezza, Camden
Purezza launched as the UK’s first vegan pizzeria in Brighton in 2015, and has since made a name for itself in Bristol, Manchester and London too. The team has previously been awarded National Pizza of the Year, so diners can be sure they’re in for a treat. Purezza has its own range of unique vegan cheeses, with the team pioneering a type of mozzarella “derived from brown rice using a jealously guarded technique”, said City AM. All the classics are on the menu, as well as creations sure to tempt the trendiest of eaters; from black truffle bases to pulled porketta. Lasagne and cheesesteak calzone also feature. The menu is also 95% gluten-free, so those with additional dietary requirements can have their full pick of the dishes on offer.
45-47 Parkway, NW1 7PN; purezza.com
Sutton and Sons, Hackney
This family run fish shop is an east end favourite, and each of its three branches offers a vegan menu. Could it be “even better than the real thing”, asked Londonist? Banana blossom is transformed into “fish” with a marinade of seaweed, samphire – and of course, crispy batter, but there’s also battered sausage, “scampi” and “calamari” on offer too. “For vegans and non-vegans alike, this clever little place is worth a visit”, said local news site Hackney Citizen.
Stoke Newington, Essex Road; suttonandsons.co.uk
https://www.theweek.co.uk/arts-life/food-drink/955308/london-best-vegan-restaurants
