Vegetarianism has long been a way of life and dietary choice for many people, and it is far from a novel concept. However, as a population, we are recognizing the health and wider eco/planet benefits of taking this approach, which, when combined with greater creativity and flavour in the dishes served, means vegetarianism is becoming more popular. So, whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned vegetarian, make sure to check out our list of the best vegetarian restaurants in Edinburgh, where you’ll find exciting vegan food in Edinburgh and plenty of dishes.
Hula Juice Bar (94A Fountainbridge & 103-105 West Bow)
Hula Juice Bar is the place to go if you’re in town and looking for a healthy start to the day. This bright and ultra-hip café serves a delectable menu of juices and smoothies, as well as beautiful breakfasts and a variety of nourishing vegetarian dishes. This popular brunch spot is the place to go for a filling vegetarian meal, serving everything from smoothie bowls and soups to wraps and poke. Order an aça bowl and a turmeric latte for a super immune boost at one of the best vegetarian restaurants in Edinburgh.
Beetroot Sauvage (33-41 Ratcliffe Terrace)
Beetroot Sauvage is a plant-based café and all-around fitness centre in Edinburgh’s Southside. This welcoming and friendly establishment offers everything from vegan smoothies to yoga classes, as well as cooking workshops and regular markets. It’s also dog-friendly and kid-friendly, with a special kids menu for the little ones. You can even rent out their private space for your next special occasion as it is one the finest ad best vegan restaurants in Edinburgh!
Seeds For The Soul (167 Bruntsfield Place)
Bruntsfield’s 100% vegan cafe and one of the oldest vegetarian restaurants in Edinburgh is on a mission to prove that vegan food is more than just ‘grass.’ Seeds for the Soul is determined to get creative with plant-based ingredients and team up with Beyond Burgers to give diners a great food experience that is better for us and the planet, with a menu full of dishes you would appreciate in any restaurant.
Paradise Palms (41 Lothian St)
Lucky Pig Scotland’s award-winning American diner-inspired vegetarian and vegan food in Edinburgh is served at this lively venue. This menu features a variety of spicy and hearty dishes, including jackfruit crab cakes, southern-fried halloumi, and loaded nachos. The Paradise Palms, one of the best vegetarian restaurants in Edinburgh also features a tiki-themed gastropub and a record store on-site with live entertainment on weekends.
Holy Cow (34 Elder Street)
Since its inception, Holy Cow has gained mythical status among Edinburgh vegans. Definitely because of their filling vegan burgers, sandwiches, and incredible homemade chips! This vegan café, located about a two-minute walk from the main bus station, should be on your “must-visit” list, even if you’re only in town for a day or two. Their famous vegan burger selection includes falafel, pulled jackfruit, portobello mushroom, and tofu options, all served with Holy Cow’s delicious chunky chips. If you can, try to leave room for a slice of one of their delectable homemade cakes.
Kalpna (2-3 St Patrick Square)
This is a family-run restaurant that has been in Edinburgh for a respectable 25 years and serves traditional and contemporary Indian vegetarian food. The owner of Kalpna is passionate about living a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle that is full of delicious flavor-packed food. Here you’ll find some traditional Indian dishes with a vegetarian twist. On weekdays between 12 and 2pm, Kalpna, one of the finest vegetarian restaurants in Edinburgh, serves a lunch buffet for only £8.50 per person!
David Bann Restaurant (56-58 St Mary’s Street)
David Bann’s eclectic and award-winning cuisine is served in a relaxed and refined setting, making it the place to go for vegetarian fine dining. Their globally inspired menu includes vegetarian and vegan options, as well as a selection of vegan wines. This is a great place to enjoy a gourmet vegetarian meal on a special occasion and is frequently listed as one of the best vegan restaurants in Edinburgh.
Dishoom (3a St Andrew Square)
St Andrew Square, 3a Dishoom, one of the newest vegetarian restaurants in Edinburgh to hit the food scene, became an instant hit the moment its doors opened. This quirky Bombay-style restaurant pays homage to the Irani cafés that were once a staple of Bombay life. It’s not your typical Indian restaurant, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner with dishes like egg naan rolls and okra fries. Dishoom made our list because of their extensive vegetarian and vegan menu, which is updated with new dishes on a regular basis. You could come back dozens of times and still not try everything. Our favourites are the paneer tikka and the jackfruit Biryani – both are delectable!
The Takeaway
When it came to eating out, vegetarian and vegan diners used to get the short end of the stick. Thankfully, times have changed, and Edinburgh now offers a diverse range of exciting vegetarian and vegan options. We are confident that you will find the ideal venue on our list of the best vegetarian restaurants in Edinburgh, whether you are looking for a lavish banquet, a healthy evening meal, a light lunch, a decadent afternoon treat, or a super healthy breakfast.
FAQs
1. What choices are available to vegetarians when dining out?
To begin, look for symbols such as a v or a leaf on menus that indicate vegetarian or vegan dishes. If in doubt, consult the wait staff. Servers are increasingly being trained to meet the needs of non-meat eaters. Make a special request if necessary.
2. Is Edinburgh suitable for vegans?
Edinburgh was named the best city in the UK for vegans in a recent poll, with 642 vegan-friendly restaurants and 42 delivery options offering delicious plant-based food delivered right to your door.
3. How many vegans are there in Edinburgh?
The city is a fantastic base for exploring all of Scotland’s stunning glens, lochs, and mountains, and it is also one of the top vegan areas in the UK. There are 691 vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Edinburgh, and just under 20% of residents are vegan or vegetarian.
You can also read some of our blogs that might be of interest:
The Best Vegetarian Restaurants In London 2022
7 Great Vegan Vegan Restaurants In San Francisco To Try
Best Vegan Restaurants In Vancouver For A Delicious Vegan Meal
