A vegan lifestyle doesn't mean sacrificing the joy of dining out, but it’s not without its challenges. There is an increasing number of restaurants offering vegan options so with a little preparation and some know-how, eating out as a vegan can be an exciting adventure.

Our guide will help you discover the best vegan experiences anywhere you go and includes a special section on eating out as a vegan in our vibrant home town, Leeds.

Research and Plan Ahead

Before heading out to a restaurant, take some time to research vegan-friendly eateries in your area. Use online platforms, apps like Happy Cow, and social media to find reviews and recommendations from fellow vegans. Whilst in many areas, there are few dedicated vegan restaurants, lots of eateries have great vegan options. When browsing online menus, look out for the vegan symbol, Ve or other coding to help your choices.

Photo by Samuel Regan-Asante on Unsplash

Communicate with the Staff

Don't be afraid to communicate your dietary preferences with the restaurant staff. Most chefs and servers are accommodating and willing to customise dishes to suit your needs. Politely ask about ingredient substitutions, and ensure the kitchen is aware of your dietary requirements to avoid any accidental non-vegan additions.

Explore Ethnic Cuisines

Ethnic cuisines often offer a variety of plant-based options. Asian, Mediterranean, and Mexican cuisines, for example, frequently incorporate flavourful vegan dishes. Enjoy the richness of vegetable curries, noodle soups, falafel wraps, or tofu stir-fries as you explore diverse culinary traditions.

Scan the Menu Creatively

Even if a restaurant doesn't have a designated vegan section on the menu, don't despair. Scan the menu for potential vegan options or dishes that can be easily modified. Many places offer customizable salads, pasta dishes, or vegetable-based mains that can be adapted to meet your preferences.

Embrace Appetisers and Sides

Sometimes, the appetiser and side sections of the menu can be a goldmine for vegan choices. From crispy vegetable spring rolls to tasty hummus platters, these options can be just as satisfying as main courses. Mix and match a selection of appetisers for a diverse and delightful meal.

Be Dessert Savvy

Dessert is not off-limits for vegans! Many restaurants now offer vegan desserts or can adapt existing ones. Look for fruit sorbets, dairy-free chocolate options, or naturally vegan treats like fruit salads. Indulging in a sweet ending to your meal can be the perfect way to cap off a satisfying dining experience.

Stay Informed About Hidden Ingredients

While a dish may seem vegan on the surface, it's essential to be aware of hidden ingredients. Some items might contain dairy, eggs, or other animal products, so be sure to clarify with the staff if you have any doubts. Being vigilant about ingredients ensures that your meal aligns with your ethical choices.

Eating out as a vegan has never been more accessible and enjoyable. By researching, communicating with restaurant staff, and exploring creative options, you can navigate menus with confidence and savour a diverse range of delicious plant-based meals. So, embrace the adventure, try new flavours, and show the world that vegan dining is not only possible but incredibly delightful.

How to ….Dine Out In Leeds

Our home town, Leeds, is a brilliant place to eat out as a vegan. Whether you’re a local trying Veganuary or you’re planning a visit to our thriving Yorkshire city, our vegan dining guide can help you!

-Bundobust-

6 Mill Hill, Leeds LS1 5DQ, UK

https://bundobust.com/locations/leeds/

With a vibrant atmosphere, Bundobust is a gem that brings together Indian street food and craft beer.

-Cantina at The Old Red Bus Station-

104 Vicar Ln, Leeds LS2 7NL, UK

https://theoldredbusstation.com/cantina-brings-a-new-take-on-vegan-food-in-leeds-city-centre

The Old Red Bus Station Cantina is not to be missed. Boasts a dedicated vegan menu it features mouthwatering plant-powered pies, burgers, and creative dishes.

-Humpit Hummus-

Leeds University

https://humpit-hummus.com/

Humpit Hummus, known for its delectable hummus bowls and falafel, offers a satisfying and wholesome vegan experience and a range of delicious vegan desserts.

-Kuala Lumpur Cafe -

2-4 Bennett Road, Headingley, LS6 3HN

https://www.klcafeleeds.co.uk/

Boasting loads of awards this Malaysian gem is not to be missed. Most dishes can be made vegan so your choice is huge!

-Pho-

Trinity Kitchen, 11-13 Great George St, Leeds LS1 3AL, UK

https://www.phocafe.co.uk/locations/leeds/

Pho, a Vietnamese restaurant, offers a separate vegan menu with an array of delectable options, fragrant noodle soups to tasty stir-fried dishes.

-Ecco Pizzeria-

93-97 Otley Rd, Leeds LS6 3PS, UK

Ecco Pizzeria has a dedicated vegan menu featuring a variety of plant-based pizzas.

-The Ivy Asia-

Vicar Lane, Leeds, LS2 7AU

https://theivyasia.com/restaurants/the-ivy-asia-leeds/

For a treat, Ivy Asia’s vegan tasting menu is a spectacular feast of high end creative Asian vegan dishes.

Eating out offers in Leeds

There is no shortage of dining offers to tempt us into Leeds this January. Whilst not exclusively vegan, these venues include some tasty plant-based dishes on their menus.

-The Alchemist-

Level 1, Trinity Leeds, Leeds, LS1 6HW and Yorkshire House, Greek Street, Leeds, LS1 5SH

https://thealchemist.uk.com/cities/leeds/

40% off your food bill in January, excluding Fridays after 5pm and Saturdays.

-Revolution de Cuba-

64-68 Call Lane LS1 6DT

https://www.revoluciondecuba.com/offers/

50% off your food bill from 2nd - 25th January. Head to the above page to get your voucher. Ts&Cs apply.

-Blue Pavillion-

90 Merrion Street, Leeds, LS2 8LW

Blue Pavillion (bluepavilion.co.uk)

Classy East Asian Restaurant offering 30% off their a la carte and set menus Sun-Thu in January. Book online at least 24h in advance to qualify.

-Jamrock-

31, Kirkgate, Leeds, LS2 7DR

https://www.welcometojamrock.co.uk/

Jamrock, is offering 50% off its real Caribbean cuisine Wed- Fri. Book and choose a main and side or dessert to get this deal.

-Gusto-

10 Greek Street, Leeds LS1 5RU and 151 Otley Rd, Cookridge, Leeds LS16 6HN

Gusto Gold Rewards | Gusto (gustorestaurants.uk.com)
Gusto is offering 50% off your food bill, (Mon- Thu and until 4:45pm Fri) until during January. You need to sign up to their free Gold Rewards scheme and book your table through the app or on the website using the email you signed up with.

-Tattu-

29, East Parade, Minerva House LS1 5PS

https://tattu.co.uk/bookings/leeds/

Exciting chinese restaurant Tattu is offering 30% off food* until 31st January (Sunday to Thursday and 12pm to 4:45pm on Fridays. To get the deal, book online using code TATTU30.

-Chaophraya-

20A, Blayds Court, Swinegate, Leeds LS1 4AG

https://chaophraya.co.uk/thai-restaurant/leeds

Upscale Thai restaurant Chaophraya is offering 30% off your a la carte food bill until 31st Jan (Sunday - Thursday all day. Friday 12pm - 5pm) .

To get the deal, sign up to their newsletter for your unique code and book online.

All year round offers

Photo by Pablo Merchán Montes on Unsplash

-Little Tokyo-

https://littletokyoleeds.co.uk/promotion-seasonal/

24 Central Road, Leeds, LS1 6DE

Offers a great lunch deal: £9.99-11.99 for two courses or a Bento box, 12 – 4pm Mon-Fri

-Kuala Lumpur Cafe-

https://www.klcafeleeds.co.uk/

2-4 Bennett Road, Headingley, LS6 3HN

Students and NHS workers – 10% off

Wednesday students 20% off

-Tharavadu-

https://www.tharavadurestaurants.com/qrmenu/index.html

Offers a great lunch deals including a vegan and gluten free thali £8.95

We hope you enjoy dining out vegan this January!