The global rise in plant-based eating has transformed the culinary world, with more destinations offering diverse, flavorful, and innovative vegan meals. From bustling urban centers to tranquil retreats, these places embrace the principles of sustainability and compassion, creating culinary experiences that are as indulgent as they are ethical. Whether you’re a lifelong vegan, a health enthusiast, or someone curious about plant-based dining, these 15 destinations will inspire your next gastronomic journey.
1. Berlin, Germany
Berlin has established itself as the unofficial vegan capital of Europe, boasting a thriving plant-based food scene that caters to all tastes and budgets. The city is home to an extensive range of vegan eateries, including gourmet restaurants, casual cafes, and food trucks serving innovative dishes. Berlin’s creativity shines in vegan adaptations of traditional German foods like currywurst, schnitzel, and spätzle, making it an exciting destination for plant-based travelers.
Don’t miss Kopps, which offers a high-end vegan dining experience with seasonal menus and creative flavor combinations. For casual bites, try Vöner, a vegan take on döner kebab, or Yellow Sunshine Burger, serving plant-based fast food. Berlin also hosts Veganes Sommerfest, Europe’s largest vegan festival, where you can explore stalls offering everything from vegan street food to eco-friendly products. With its vibrant food culture and inclusive atmosphere, Berlin remains a must-visit destination for any vegan enthusiast.
2. Los Angeles, USA
Los Angeles has long been at the forefront of plant-based living, with a dining scene that reflects the city’s health-conscious and innovative ethos. LA offers a diverse array of vegan options, from gourmet dining to comforting fast food, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
For a luxurious dining experience, visit Crossroads Kitchen, helmed by celebrity chef Tal Ronnen, where you can savor elevated vegan dishes like artichoke oysters and spaghetti carbonara. If you’re craving comfort food, check out Monty’s Good Burger, which serves mouthwatering plant-based burgers and milkshakes. Mexican-inspired vegan cuisine shines at Gracias Madre, featuring dishes like jackfruit tacos and cashew cheese enchiladas. Don’t forget to explore LA’s vibrant farmers’ markets, which offer an abundance of fresh produce and artisanal vegan treats.
3. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai is a vegan traveler’s dream, offering an abundance of plant-based eateries set against the backdrop of Thailand’s serene northern landscape. Traditional Thai cuisine is already well-suited to vegan adaptations, with its focus on fresh vegetables, tofu, and aromatic herbs. Chiang Mai’s vegan dining scene reflects this versatility, with numerous options ranging from street food stalls to cozy cafes.
Highlights include Anchan Vegetarian Restaurant, known for its flavorful curries and noodle dishes made with organic ingredients, and Free Bird Cafe, a social enterprise that supports Burmese refugees. For those seeking raw and healthy options, Reform Kafe serves nutrient-packed smoothie bowls and fresh salads. Chiang Mai also hosts an annual Veggie Fest, celebrating plant-based living with vibrant food markets and cultural performances, making it a must-visit destination for vegans in Asia.
4. Tel Aviv, Israel
Tel Aviv is often referred to as the “Vegan Capital of the World,” and for good reason. The city is home to an incredible variety of vegan-friendly eateries that embrace Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors. Traditional Israeli dishes like hummus, falafel, and shakshuka are easily made vegan, while local chefs continue to innovate with plant-based versions of global cuisines.
Don’t miss Meshek Barzilay, a farm-to-table vegan restaurant in the heart of Neve Tzedek, offering creative dishes that highlight seasonal produce. For a casual dining experience, head to Nature Boys, where you’ll find hearty plant-based burgers and loaded fries. Tel Aviv also hosts Vegan Fest, one of the largest vegan festivals globally, where visitors can sample an array of plant-based foods while enjoying the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
5. Portland, USA
Portland, Oregon, has long been a pioneer in the vegan movement, with a progressive mindset that embraces sustainability, creativity, and inclusivity. The city’s food scene features everything from upscale vegan bistros to quirky food carts serving plant-based comfort food.
For indulgent eats, try Homegrown Smoker BBQ, which offers vegan takes on barbecue classics like pulled “pork” and smoked mac and cheese. Pizza lovers will adore Virtuous Pie, where you can enjoy inventive toppings like truffle almond ricotta. For dessert, head to Sweetpea Baking Co., one of the city’s first vegan bakeries. Portland’s dedication to ethical and sustainable dining makes it a standout destination for plant-based travelers.
6. London, England
London’s vegan scene has exploded in recent years, transforming the city into a haven for plant-based food lovers. From trendy cafes to fine dining establishments, London’s diverse neighborhoods offer countless options for vegan cuisine.
A visit to Mildreds, a long-standing vegetarian and vegan restaurant chain, is a must. Their global-inspired menu includes dishes like Sri Lankan curry and gyoza dumplings. For a taste of vegan fast food, head to Temple of Seitan, where you’ll find crispy vegan “chicken” and loaded fries. If you’re seeking elegance, book a table at Gauthier Soho, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering a sophisticated vegan tasting menu. London’s rich cultural diversity ensures that vegans can explore a variety of cuisines, from Ethiopian to Japanese, all within the city’s vibrant culinary scene.
7. Ubud, Bali
Ubud, the spiritual and cultural heart of Bali, is a haven for wellness enthusiasts and vegans alike. The town’s focus on holistic living is reflected in its abundance of plant-based eateries, many of which prioritize organic and locally sourced ingredients.
At Alchemy, you can enjoy raw vegan dishes like zucchini pasta and nutrient-packed smoothie bowls in a tranquil garden setting. Zest Ubud is another standout, blending Balinese flavors with vegan innovation in dishes like jackfruit rendang and charcoal-activated pizza. Ubud’s serene atmosphere and commitment to mindful living make it a perfect destination for vegan travelers seeking nourishment for both body and soul.
8. New York City, USA
New York City’s culinary scene is unmatched in diversity, and its vegan offerings are no exception. From gourmet establishments to bustling street food vendors, NYC offers a world of plant-based options across its five boroughs. Whether you’re craving elevated dining experiences or indulgent comfort food, the city has something to cater to every taste and dietary preference.
Avant Garden, located in Manhattan, stands out for its sophisticated plant-based plates, blending innovation with exceptional presentation. For sushi lovers, Beyond Sushi redefines the genre with creative plant-based rolls featuring ingredients like black rice, mango, and pickled vegetables. Meanwhile, Champs Diner in Brooklyn serves up nostalgic vegan comfort food, including pancakes, burgers, and milkshakes. NYC’s vast and eclectic vegan scene ensures a culinary adventure, no matter where you find yourself in the city.
9. Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne is a foodie paradise known for its creativity and focus on sustainability, making it a hotspot for vegans. The city’s vibrant dining scene features everything from chic vegan bistros to bustling markets brimming with plant-based delights. Melbourne’s love for coffee culture also means you’ll find plenty of vegan-friendly cafes serving excellent plant-based lattes and treats.
One must-visit is Smith & Daughters, a bold and innovative eatery offering dishes like vegan charcuterie boards and hearty pasta dishes. Another local favorite is The Vegie Bar, which serves diverse vegan dishes inspired by cuisines from around the globe. For a sweet ending, head to Girls & Boys, an indulgent vegan dessert shop specializing in dairy-free gelato and smoothies. Melbourne’s creative energy and commitment to quality make it a must-visit destination for vegans.
10. Toronto, Canada
Toronto’s rich multiculturalism is reflected in its dynamic vegan food scene, which features plant-based versions of global cuisines. The city’s commitment to sustainability and ethical eating ensures that vegan travelers can enjoy fresh, innovative meals while supporting local and eco-conscious businesses.
For modern vegan comfort food, stop by Fresh, a beloved local chain offering dishes like quinoa onion rings, kale Caesar salads, and green smoothies. Parka Food Co. is another standout, known for its elevated takes on comfort classics like vegan mac and cheese and sweet potato poutine. With annual events like Veg Food Fest, showcasing vegan innovations and sustainability efforts, Toronto is a city that truly embraces plant-based living.
11. Tokyo, Japan
While Japan has a reputation for seafood-heavy cuisine, Tokyo has embraced the vegan movement with creativity and flair. Many restaurants have adapted traditional Japanese dishes, such as sushi, ramen, and tempura, into delicious plant-based versions that retain the essence of their origins.
T’s Tantan, located in Tokyo Station, specializes in vegan ramen with bold flavors and hearty broths. For a more diverse menu, try Ain Soph. Ripple, offering comfort food like vegan burgers, pancakes, and desserts. Tokyo’s vegan options also include convenience store snacks and bento boxes, making it easy for travelers to find plant-based meals on the go.
12. Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh’s food scene has blossomed into a haven for vegans, combining the warmth of hearty Scottish cuisine with a creative, modern twist. The city’s vegan-friendly eateries are often nestled in cozy, welcoming spaces that reflect its historic charm.
Hendersons, a long-standing institution, offers wholesome vegan dishes such as lentil stews and root vegetable pies. For something more casual, visit Holy Cow, known for its plant-based burgers, decadent cakes, and fair-trade coffee. Edinburgh’s Vegan Festival UK further highlights the city’s commitment to plant-based living, with stalls offering everything from vegan haggis to cruelty-free cosmetics.
13. San Francisco, USA
San Francisco’s progressive ethos extends to its thriving vegan food scene, which combines innovation with a commitment to sustainability. The city’s diverse dining options include upscale vegan restaurants, vibrant food trucks, and everything in between.
Shizen, a vegan sushi bar, offers an inventive menu featuring rolls crafted from plant-based ingredients that mimic the texture and flavor of seafood. For Mexican-inspired vegan cuisine, visit Gracias Madre, where organic ingredients shine in dishes like butternut squash quesadillas and coconut ceviche. San Francisco’s bustling farmers’ markets, such as the iconic Ferry Building Marketplace, offer fresh, local produce and artisanal vegan goods, making it a paradise for conscious food lovers.
14. Paris, France
Paris, long renowned for its indulgent cuisine, has embraced veganism with a blend of elegance and innovation. The city’s plant-based eateries preserve the sophistication of French dining while offering creative, animal-free versions of beloved dishes.
Dine at Le Potager de Charlotte, a chic vegan bistro serving beautifully plated dishes like chickpea pancakes and vegetable-stuffed zucchini. For a sweet treat, visit Cloud Cakes, where you’ll find vegan croissants, eclairs, and other French pastries. Paris’s vegan scene reflects the city’s culinary excellence, ensuring that plant-based eaters can indulge without compromise.
15. Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok’s dynamic food scene extends to its vegan offerings, with an impressive variety of plant-based Thai dishes that showcase the city’s vibrant flavors. From aromatic curries to fresh spring rolls, Bangkok offers a rich array of options for vegan travelers.
May Veggie Home serves vegan versions of traditional Thai dishes like tom kha soup and pad Thai, while the stalls at Chatuchak Market provide an authentic street food experience with plant-based twists. Bangkok’s bustling markets, combined with its growing vegan restaurant scene, make it a top destination for those seeking flavorful, plant-based meals.
Vegan cuisine is no longer confined to a niche lifestyle—it has blossomed into a global culinary movement that celebrates creativity, sustainability, and the joy of eating well. These 15 destinations not only highlight the diversity of vegan food but also demonstrate its capacity to transcend cultural and geographical boundaries. Whether you’re drawn to Berlin’s innovative takes on comfort food, Chiang Mai’s vibrant street dishes, or Paris’s elegant plant-based dining, each city offers a unique and enriching experience.
Embark on a journey to these vegan-friendly hotspots and discover how plant-based eating is redefining the world of food, one delicious bite at a time. Whether you’re traveling for the love of food or the pursuit of ethical dining, these destinations promise unforgettable culinary adventures that inspire and delight.
