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Last summer I fell in love with Sardinia. It had been on my travel bucket list since my teens and given the level of hype I had imposed on it over all these years, deep down I feared it could not possibly live up to my unreasonable expectations. Suffice to say, we landed, got our rental car and as we set off towards our hotel I knew straight away it would not only meet, but also surpass all of said expectations. After a week in the North Eastern Costa Smeralda, hopping from beach to beach, venturing inland and driving along the winding roads, we knew this would not be our last time here. Few places have this kind of irresistible pull, and for us it meant this summer we were straight back there.

Last year I compiled all of my plant-based finds, plus a few travel tips and tricks, into a vegan-friendly guide which you can read here:

This year, by way of an update, I’m putting together a second edition with additional finds, my notes on revisiting last year’s favourites, plus a few key updates. I hope both guides serve you well.

Happy travels!

Daniela x

The Hotel

We decided to return to Cascioni Eco Retreat, based just outside Arzachena, for our stay this year having loved the peaceful inland location, the beautiful grounds of the surrounding estate and the earthy design of the whole property. Once again, we thoroughly enjoyed our walks amidst the olive groves, taking dips in our private pool and the sprawling vistas over the mountainous landscape - it felt good to be back.

There was, however, quite a big shift in how vegan-friendly it was this time around. Most of the vegan food options from last year have been removed from both the hotel breakfast and the restaurant menus. There were some buffet options at breakfast, notably a new vegan blue cheese, a few vegetable dishes (marinated courgettes, potato salad, stewed lentils) and some nice fruit however the only hot dish option I was given was an improvised plate of grilled peppers, courgettes and aubergine. The ingredients were nice, quite a lot of the produce comes from the estate which is lovely, however it was a shame there were not more hot food options like last year and no sweet baked goods at all either.

I ordered lunch once at the hotel during our stay, a very simple tomato spaghetti. The tomato sauce was delicious and the pasta was perfectly cooked however I would have like to see some more variety. I had been craving their vegetable gnocchetti Sardi from last year, but it is sadly no longer on the menu. I’m not sure how accommodating they can be for dinner as I didn’t enquire but I would definitely recommend calling ahead to double check if you’re thinking of visiting.

What to Do

For beaches, we once again made the big trip to La Pelosa on the north-west coast of the Island which for us was absolutely worth it. The water is impossibly blue and the lagoon effect is so delicious in the intense summer heat. It’s very busy but as we spent most of the time in the water we didn’t mind so much. It does require pre-booking so make sure you reserve online well in advance and bring an approved underlay for your towel. We also went back to La Cinta and tried Liscia Ruja for the first time. We preferred the latter as, unlike La Cinta, it was very quiet and you could get a generous stretch of the beach all to yourself. La Cinta is still very good but get there early to secure a decent spot.

We made brief visits to San Pantaleo and Porto Cervo in the evenings, both of which are interesting in their own way. San Pantaleo is more quaint and Porto Cervo has more of the glitzy vibe going on. Both get very busy but parking in Porto Cervo is particularly challenging so approach with this in mind.

By far, the best addition to our itinerary this year was a day trip to La Maddalena and Caprera Islands. We skipped it last year thinking it was a bit too much effort for our first trip but it was actually pretty straightforward and I would absolutely recommend going. There are many boat tours or boat hire options however we opted to cross over via ferry instead so that we could move around the islands in the car for maximum flexibility. The ferry starts at around 8am, departs from Palau and they operate every 20 minutes or so into the evening (check exact times on the operator website). It was really easy, just drive to the port, get your ticket at the ticket office and they’ll put you on the next service. Once on the island we headed across to Caprera first. The crossing is via a causeway that offers incredible views of the archipelago and once you cross you immediately enter the beautifully rugged natural terrain of Caprera. We spent most of our time at Cala Napoletana, a stunning cove with resident goats(!!) and glistening water. It requires a 40min hike down from where you park but the effort is truly worth it. After this, we stopped by Spiaggia del Relitto and the Garibaldi Museum, both of which I would give a miss unless you’re particularly keen. There’s a very sweet colony of cats at the Garibaldi Museum. Back across to La Maddalena we drove around the island where there are plenty of beaches dotted along the coast for additional pitstops for swimming - take your pick. Before boarding the return ferry we grabbed a bite in La Maddalena town (more on that below).

Where to Eat

This year we went back to our favourites from last year including L’Oasi, MaMa Trattoria and La Pasqualina Gelateria. You can read more about those in my guide from last year - they’re still great options and I would continue to recommend them. As mentioned above, Ulia restaurant at Cascioni have drastically reduced their vegan offering so sadly I can’t recommend them as highly as I did last year anymore.

Some New Finds

Gelateria Tradizionale C'era Una Volta, Arzachena

Can’t believe we missed this spot last year! Loads of vegan options including beautiful fruity sorbets as well as more indulgent flavours like vegan snickers - I mean…We skipped dessert at dinner a couple of times to come here instead. Eating gelato at night on the little bench outside their shop is definitely a feeling I wish I could bottle up. They have a second branch in Olbia.

Ristorante La Terrazza Pizzeria, Arzachena

Another super simple, fuss-free Arzachena spot. They do plenty of pizzas which I would happily eat without cheese and they also do some simple pastas too. I opted for grilled vegetables for my starter and the gnoccheti Sardi with tomato sauce as my main. I love the bouncy, chewy texture of the gnoccheti.

La Focacceria Genovese, La Maddalena

After a day of hiking around Caprera and swimming in the sea all I wanted was carbs and La Focacceria Genovese came to the rescue. They have a few vegan options, I picked up a slice each of the potato and rosemary and the vegetable focaccia. Easy, tasty and wonderfully carb-y. Would also be very good to pick up in advance for a top tier picnic on the beach.

Dolci Distrazioni, La Maddalena

For our gelato fix on La Maddalena we headed to Dolci Distrazioni. They only have a few vegan flavours including chocolate and a couple of fruit sorbets. The special was an Alphonso Mango sorbet, which I hadn’t seen elsewhere, so I went with that and was very happy with my choice.

Beach Bars

In our experience a lot of the beaches seem to have at least one restaurant/bar and more times than not the food is actually pretty decent. Nothing exceptional but much better than they’d need to be given the location. A lot of them offer pizza or sandwich options which you could easily ask to be amended to omit the cheese. One of the beach bars at La Cinta had a vegan burger and even some of the sandwich carts offer vegan panini.

Supermarkets

We’d pick up snacks for the beach at Dettori Market which are dotted all around the island. At this time of year the fruit options are excellent and a lot of the snack-y bits like crackers, crisps, biscuits etc are naturally vegan. The deli counter has really good options too, including salad boxes, olives and freshly made sandwiches. I also picked up some fun dry gnocchetti and jams to take home.

The Olbia Airport Club Lounge

If you’re planning to stop by the lounge at Olbia Airport I’d say it was fairly vegan friendly. They had a vegetable (aubergine, courgette, pepper) gnoccheti sardi option as part of the buffet, a few baked good options, and a couple of snacks like crisps, crackers etc. that are all naturally vegan.

I hope you enjoyed this edition of Canasta. If you did, please remember to hit the like button and share with anyone planning a trip who may find it useful! Until next time x

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Welcome back to canasta!

Today’s issue is all about ICE CREAM. If you’ve been following me for a while on here, or over on Instagram, you’ve probably realised I love ice cream a little more than what’s considered normal – a fact I am not the least bit ashamed of. To me, ice cream if one of the best foods of all. It has clear structural limitations (cold, melts in the heat, smooth) that offers a base for maximum experimentation with FLAVOUR. You’ll usually find me seeking out the most unusual, even challenging, flavours but I'm also an absolute fiend for anything nostalgic and playful. For me, ice cream is all about fun and being vegan doesn’t get in the way of that at all!

Last year I rounded up the best vegan ice cream spots in town and this year, by way of an annual update, I’m bringing you even more delicious options PLUS a handy map (scroll to the bottom) to guide you straight to those scoops.

Let’s dive in…

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Summer Specials

OATIS

You’ll be happy to know OATIS has brought back their oat-based soft serve for the summer again. They have loads of fun toppings and this year they’re even doing a vegan take on the viral dot cake featuring banana bread, oat soft serve and dot sprinkles.

Notting Hill: 127 Queensway, London, United Kingdom W2 4SJ; Shoreditch: 10 Cygnet Street E1 6GW

Crumb

North London vegan bakery, Crumb, are doing limited edition ice cream sandwiches for the summer. Their cookies will be sandwiching a changing rotation of ice cream flavours like pistachio, vanilla and more. But be warned, they are very limited so get there early. They’ve also got a bright yellow cart selling them, currently at Broadway Market. Follow them on Instagram to see where it goes next.

8 Charlton Place, London N1 8AJ

Little Sourdough Kitchen

The August soft serve special at Little Sourdough Kitchen is a Tiramisu Soft Serve and it’s vegan – I feel that’s all I need to say…Head to Fulham this month to get your hands on the coffee rippled vanilla soft serve layered with coffee soaked savoiardi sponge and finished with a dusting of cocoa powder.

237 Munster Road, Fulham, SW6 6BT

tease

A matcha soft serve offering from wellness brand tease. They have a few healthy toppings to choose from like cacao nibs and desiccated coconut, as well as, a matcha float option too. You can find the summer special at two of their central London locations: South Kensington and Brityard.

Brityard: 285 Regent St., London W1B 2HQ; South Kensington: 19 Harrington Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 3ES

The Ice Cream Project by Anya Hindmarch

Anya Hindmarch’s The Ice Cream Project is back for another summer and it’s got just as much joy and kitsch-factor as ever. In collaboration with cult food brands they bring you some of the whackiest flavours out there. Most aren’t vegan but look out for their sorbets: this year they have an Orange Capri-Sun one.

11 Pont St, London SW1X 9EH

All Year Round

Araw

Not a new spot but a ‘new(er) to me’ spot that I’m adding to the top of the list this year. Araw isn’t vegan but they do offer a few amazing vegan options, including my ‘Scoop of the Year’, the Pandan Onde Onde ice cream. It is SO delicious. It blends together the flavours of sweet pandan leaves, coconut milk, and Gula Melaka for a scoop like no other. They have two sites in central London so make sure you pop in when you’re next in central.

At Brityard: 285-287 Regent Street, W1B 2HH; Borough Yard: Unit 232a, Dirty Lane, SE1 9PA

Marcelo’s Ice Cream

The GOAT! Marcelo’s Ice Cream is fully vegan and can give any dairy ice cream a run for its money. The flavours are elegant, inventive and absolutely delicious - think burnt miso caramel, sencha tea kombucha or gooseberry cardamom fool...This year you’ll find them at Haynes Lane Courtyard in Crystal Palace (they’re no longer at Crystal Palace & Herne Hill markets FYI). Check their Instagram page for the latest weekly flavours.

Haynes Lane Market, 21 Haynes Ln, London SE19 3AN

Soft & Swirly

Not your typical sorbet! Soft & Swirly do some epic sorbet soft serve options with seasonal fruity flavours like loganberry, plum and watermelon & lime - sublime. They also do scooped variations if that’s more up your street. The menu changes often so be sure to check ahead to see what vegan flavours they have and follow them on Instagram for pop-up updates.

398 Mentmore Terrace, London E8 3PA (Located in E5 Bakehouse’s garden)

Chunk Provisions

Another great spot for inventive flavour combinations. Chunk Provisions in Leyton do a good number of vegan options - think olive oil lemon verbena and black sesame apple crumble. With an ever changing menu this is one place that will never leave you bored.

Arch 151 Tilbury Rd, London E10 6RE

Vagabond Ice Creams

Choc ices but make it vegan? No problem. Vagabond Ice Creams supplies delightful plant-based choc ices to various stockists across London. Flavours include chocolate, black cherry, peanut butter & pretzel, and much more. Click here for the full list of where to find them.

British Patagonia

British Patagonia is a much loved bakery serving heaps of plant-based options and it’s also the home of the viral vegan croissant cone soft serve. Flavours this year include pistachio, vanilla and strawberry and there are a number of sauces and toppings to choose from. Note: not all options are vegan so be sure to check.

178 Upper Street, London, United Kingdom N1 1RG

Bake Street

Bake Street often has some phenomenal vegan treats and you’ll often find a plant-based option amongst their ice cream offering too. Their menu changes often, with a more extensive menu on the weekend, so be sure to check ahead before you visit. Past vegan flavours include lychee soft serve and capuaçu sorbet. Check their Instagram stories for the weekly menu.

58 Evering Road, London, United Kingdom N16 7SR

Big Kid Ice Cream

One of my absolute favourites. Big Kid Ice Cream takes the ‘fun ice cream’ brief to the next level with some of the most creative, nostalgia-coded flavours you’ll come across. They mostly make dairy ice cream but they will usually have at least one really good vegan option, and with a changing menu trust me when I say you’ll be back for more. Past vegan flavours include coconut cookie butter, watermelon Turkish delight and mango horchata.

Soho: 1 Kingly St, London

Makers

These chocolatiers are bring soft serve year-round to West London. Located on Chelsea’s Fulham Road, you’ll find them serving up classic flavours like pistachio, matcha and vanilla with a variety of chocolatey toppings on offer. You can also add an espresso or matcha shot for an affogato upgrade. Flavours change with the seasons so check ahead.

2-4, Queen’s, Elm Pl, Old Church St, London SW3 6EJ

Chin Chin Labs

I’ve been going to Chin Chin Labs for years and they’ve never let me down. The texture of their ice cream is so smooth and they always have at least a couple of really good vegan options available. Flavours change from time to time with past specials including Banana Miso and Black Sesame Tahini Halva.

Soho: 54 Greek Street, London, W1D 3DS; Camden: 49-50 Camden Lock Place, London, NW1 8AF

La Gelatiera

La Gelatiera has an incredible range for vegans. You’ll find multiple options like fruity seasonal sorbets, a classic chocolate sorbet and more creative flavours like black forest gateau. With three branches across London it’s definitely a name you want to pinned.

Covent Garden: 27 New Row, London WC2N 4LA; East Village: 1 W Park Walk, East Village, London E20 1DH; OXO Tower: Unit G5, Barge House St, London, SE1 9PH

Parlour by the Ice Cream Union

Hidden away on Chelsea’s Pavilion Road, Parlour by the Ice Cream Union is a good West London spot for solid vegan options. They don’t have many ice creams per se but they always have a nice array of more interesting fruity seasonal sorbets like cherry, passion fruit and blood orange, as well as a reliable chocolate sorbet.

166 Pavilion Road, London, United Kingdom SW1X 0AW

Gelupo

I love a stop at Gelupo anytime but especially after dinner, in the dark. It’s one of the few places in central London where you can sit down and enjoy great vegan ice cream til late (midnight on Friday & Saturday). They also change the flavours with the seasons so there’s always something new. Flavours include chocolate, pistachio, blood orange and many more.

7 Archer St, London W1D 7AU

Darlish

If you find yourself near Portobello Road head here for some really nice scoops with Middle Eastern influences. They have a couple of vegan options like chocolate and coconut & raspberry but their sorbets are also very good and far from boring, with flavours changing regularly. Past sorbets include sour cherry, rhubarb, pomegranate & rose, and pineapple.

305 Westbourne Park Rd, London W11 1EF

Happy Endings

Happy Endings don’t have a heap of plant-based options but they do have a dreamy ice cream sandwich worth hunting down. They mostly supply shops and restaurants but you can also order for pick-up or delivery if you’re within a 5.5 mile radius from their Canning Town workshop (see the full list of stockists here but note not all will have the vegan ice creams in stock). The current vegan sando is the ‘East London Vegan’ (Corn and cashew ‘ice-cream’, smokey salted caramel and miso and corn cookie). Follow them on Instagram for updates on their regular pop-up and collab events that often feature vegan options, including plant-based soft serve.

Wave Gelato

Artisan gelato that doesn’t sideline vegans. Expect interesting changing flavours like Coconut Lime & Black Pepper, Mango & Passionfruit and more. Located inside Mare Street Market, just a short stroll from Victoria Park, it makes the perfect pre-park pit stop. You can also find their cart at Broadway Market on weekends.

117 Mare St, London E8 4RU

Udderlicious Ice Cream

Udderlicious offer loads of vegan options across their four parlours, one in Covent Garden and three in North London: Camden, Islington and Crouch End. Past flavours include hazelnut & stracciatella, mango, dragonfruit & banana, and more with plenty of changing seasonal options also vegan. This spot has a firm plant-based offering and will definitely be one you keep heading back to.

Covent Garden: 24 Earlham Street, London WC2H 9LN; Islington: 187 Upper Street, London N1 1RQ; Crouch End: 17 Topsfield Parade, London N8 8PP; Camden: 39 Parkway, London NW1 7PN

Festok

This Lebanese ice cream parlour is bringing the flavours of the Middle East to London’s ice cream scene. Not a vegan parlour but they have a few seriously good vegan options, including ‘Meghli’ (a typical Lebanese dessert made of rice milk, spiced with aniseed, caraway, cinnamon and garnished with coconut and nuts) and coconut, plus a few fruity sorbets. Note: They’ve moved from Marylebone’s St Christopher’s Place to nearby Weymouth Street.

65 Weymouth St, London W1G 8NU

The After School Cookie Club

Vegan-favourite The After School Cookie Club doesn’t just do cookies, they also do soft serve that you can embellish with a variety of sauces and various toppings. Available at all their branches, you’ll never be too far from a plant-based ice cream fix.

Various locations

The Map

I hope you enjoyed this edition of Canasta. If you’re vegan, plant-based, flexi, or simply curious about incorporating more cruelty-free choices into your life then this is for you. Subscribe to receive a weekly vegan food and lifestyle newsletter including recipes, restaurant reviews, travel guides and more. Follow @canastavegan on Instagram for extra recommendations.

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Welcome back to Canasta!

This week’s edition brings you the second half of my Vegan London List. As evidenced in Part I, there is no shortage of fully vegan/vegetarian eateries in London but that’s only half the story…

There are so many incredible food spots across the city that aren’t vegan establishments but where you are still guaranteed phenomenal plant-based food. No sad salads, no dishes with half your plate missing, no ‘afterthought’ cooking. They’re particularly useful when eating out with non-vegans but equally good for solo adventures.

To make navigating the city even easier, I’m also sharing the second and third editions of Canasta Maps! I’ve pinned all of the places featured in Parts I and II, in two separate lists, to create the ultimate resource for eating out in London. The guide and maps are completely free for all so please share far and wide with anyone in town, or visiting soon, who may need some pointers. I they serve you well.

Inevitably, London is so vast that I am sure I have missed many a great restaurant. This is a highly personal list with biases for the cuisines I naturally gravitate to and the areas I most frequent. As always, let me know in the comments if I’ve missed any of your favourites.

Enjoy,

Daniela x

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The Map(s)

Anglothai

What: Michelin-starred restaurant blending the flavours of Thailand with British produce for an experience way beyond your average ‘fusion’ style.

The Vegan Option: Full vegan tasting menu.

Where: Marylebone

Scully

What: Elevated dishes balancing an array of global flavours. The menu has a strong focus on fermentation and sustainability.

The Vegan Option: Full vegan tasting menu, plus additional dishes can be adapted upon request.

Where: St James’s

Kolae

What: Refined Southern Thai cuisine featuring fragrant curries and punchy greens.

The Vegan Option: Vegan/Vegetarian menu available with several options.

Where: Borough

Akoko

What: Michelin-starred restaurant putting West African fine dining on the map.

The Vegan Option: Full vegan tasting menu.

Where: Fitzrovia

Akara

What: Akoko’s more casual sister restaurant with a very good value lunch menu.

The Vegan Option: Plenty of à la carte and set menu options.

Where: Borough

The Ritz Restaurant

What: Two Michelin star fine dining at one of the most iconic global institutions.

The Vegan Option: Succinct vegan menu available.

Where: Mayfair

Pied à Terre

What: Michelin-starred veteran that’s offered beautifully considered plant-based menus for years.

The Vegan Option: Several vegan à la carte and tasting menu options.

Where: Fitzrovia

Kol

What: Michelin-starred Mexican cuisine using British produce to champion sustainability.

The Vegan Option: Full vegan tasting menu.

Where: Marylebone

CoCo Ichibanya

What: London outposts of Japan’s iconic curry house chain.

The Vegan Option: Several vegetable curries available.

Where: Marylebone & Covent Garden

BAO

What: A London staple serving up fluffy baos and other tasty Taiwanese plates.

The Vegan Option: Several options but menus and range vary across the branches.

Where: Soho, Borough, King’s Cross, Shoreditch, City, Battersea

Normah’s

What: Rich Malaysian classics tucked away inside Queensway Market.

The Vegan Option: A few clearly marked vegan dishes.

Where: Queensway

Farang

What: Elevated Thai street food restaurant with accolades including a Bib Gourmand award from the Michelin Guide.

The Vegan Option: The vegetarian menu is vegan but check ahead in case of seasonal changes.

Where: Highbury & Islington

Dinings SW3

What: A long-time Chelsea favourite, Dinings SW3 serves polished Japanese small plates and sushi.

The Vegan Option: Many plant-based options across the whole menu.

Where: Chelsea

Din Tai Fung

What: World-famous Taiwanese chain specialising in Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings).

The Vegan Option: Several vegan options across the whole menu.

Where: Covent Garden, Tottenham Court Rd, Marylebone, Canary Wharf

Haidilao

What: London outposts of the iconic Chinese hotpot chain.

The Vegan Option: Many plant-based ingredients and soup bases.

Where: Piccadilly & Greenwich (The O2)

Pastaio

What: Fresh pasta with dependable classics.

The Vegan Option: Dedicated vegan menu.

Where: Soho

The Mayfair Chippy

What: Classic British fish and chips but a little fancier.

The Vegan Option: They have a full vegan to-fish (nori lined tofu) and chips complete with all the trimmings.

Where: Mayfair & Knightsbridge

Sichuan Popo

What: Go-to spot for Sichuanese classics like mapo tofu, as well as dishes from other Chinese provinces (Biang Biang noodles).

The Vegan Option: Several naturally vegan options.

Where: Fulham & Earl’s Court

Naroon

What: A pair of casual Iranian eateries serving up the classics.

The Vegan Option: A few vegan versions of their classic dishes.

Where: Marylebone & Fitzrovia

Kaieteur Kitchen (Note: Temporarily Closed)

What: Moreish Guyanese cuisine; think rich vegetable curries and sides like perfectly fried plantain.

The Vegan Option: Selection of curries and most of the sides and condiments are naturally vegan.

Where: Elephant & Castle

Chuku’s

What: Vibrant Nigerian small plates, ideal for sharing.

The Vegan Option: Plenty of choice with roughly half the menu vegan.

Where: Tottenham

Rovi

What: The most veg-centric of the Ottolenghi restaurants.

The Vegan Option: A vegan option for each course of the à la carte and weekday set menus.

Where: Fitzrovia

Bancone

What: Good, dependable pasta restaurant with several locations.

The Vegan Option: Couple of options for starters, pastas and a very good dessert (Crème caramello)

Where: Covent Garden, Soho, Borough, Kensington, City, Russell Square (Opening Soon)

Dishoom (& Permit Room)

What: Well-known restaurant group with spaces and menus styled after the Irani cafés of Bombay.

The Vegan Option: Many options across their main menu and their breakfast menu.

Where: Battersea, Covent Garden, Soho, Canary Wharf, Kensington, Shoreditch, Notting Hill (Permit Room)

Liu Xiaomian

What: Casual space serving up lip-smacking bowls of spicy Chongqing noodles.

The Vegan Option: Succinct menu offering vegan options.

Where: Carnaby, Marylebone, Charing Cross

Murano

What: Michelin-starred restaurant celebrating the flavours of northeastern Italy and British produce.

The Vegan Option: Vegan menu available upon request.

Where: Mayfair

Cafe Murano

What: The more relaxed sister restaurants to Murano, with several sites across central London.

The Vegan Option: Vegan menus available at all the restaurants except Cafe Murano Bermondsey.

Where: St James’s, Marylebone, Covent Garden

The Restaurants of Guirong Wei (Several)

What: Acclaimed restaurants from Chef Guirong Wei, shining the light on the food of Xi’an and the broader Shaanxi Province.

The Vegan Option: Many naturally vegan options across the menus.

Where: Master Wei (Holborn & Hammersmith); Xi’an Impression (Holloway Road); The Wei (Fulham Broadway) & Dream X’ian (Tower Hill)

Toba

What: Casual, central spot waving the flag for Indonesian cuisine.

The Vegan Option: Many vegan options across the whole menu.

Where: St James’s

Akub

What: A beautiful celebration of Palestinian food and culture.

The Vegan Option: A few options across the menu.

Where: Notting Hill

Konjiki

What: Casual basement eatery serving up Japanese sushi and classic comfort food.

The Vegan Option: Several vegan dishes on the menu.

Where: High Street Kensington

Nandine

What: Beloved family-run restaurant serving home-style Kurdish cooking.

The Vegan Option: Many vegan dishes across the menu.

Where: Camberwell & Peckham

Santa Maria Pizzeria

What: Solid Neapolitan pizza with a number of branches across town.

The Vegan Option: Several vegan pizza options.

Where: Paddington, Fulham, Kew, Islington, Ealing, Fitzrovia

Acme Fire Cult

What: Fire-cooking is the star here. Expect plenty of smoke and a lively atmosphere.

The Vegan Option: Tend to have some good options but with a changing menu check ahead.

Where: Dalston

Koya

What: London’s go-to Japanese udon noodle bar with three distinct locations.

The Vegan Option: Many options across the whole menu.

Where: Soho, City, Hackney

som saa

What: A menu that celebrates the food from the lesser-known northern regions of Thailand.

The Vegan Option: Full vegan menu available.

Where: Spitalfields

The Harwood Arms

What: The place to go when you want something beyond the standard Sunday Roast.

The Vegan Option: Vegan Sunday Roast available but give them a heads up when booking.

Where: Fulham

Jikoni

What: A melting pot of global influences brought together with style and care.

The Vegan Option: A few nice options across the menu.

Where: Marylebone

Rambutan

What: A menu that showcases the rich, bold flavours of Sri Lanka.

The Vegan Option: Vegan options across the whole menu. Note: the menu changes often but there are always a few options.

Where: Borough

Hoppers

What: Celebrated group of Sri Lankan restaurants with four locations to choose from.

The Vegan Option: Vegan menu available.

Where: Marylebone, Kings Cross, Soho & Shoreditch

ACE Pizza

What: Really good pizza spot with loads of great vegan options.

The Vegan Option: Several pizzas, sides, starters etc.

Where: Victoria Park

I hope you enjoyed this edition of Canasta. If you’re vegan, plant-based, flexi, or simply curious about incorporating more cruelty-free choices into your life then this is for you. Subscribe to receive a weekly vegan food and lifestyle newsletter including recipes, restaurant reviews, travel guides and more. Follow @canastavegan on Instagram for extra recommendations.

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Welcome back to Canasta! Not to be dramatic, but today’s edition is pretty major (if I do say so myself).

Firstly, it’s the fifth and final instalment of my vegan-friendly London bakery guides! From King’s Cross to Green Lanes, I’ve got the North London spots serving up everything from cookies to ice cream stuffed croissants. If you missed any of the previous editions, you can find them all here:

• Central London

• West London

• East London

• South London

Introducing… Canasta Maps

Secondly, today’s post brings you the very first edition of Canasta Maps! Every London and travel guide I’ve published to date has always had ease-of-use as a guiding principle, and now with free, shareable Google maps, I hope to make good vegan food even more accessible.

My debut map includes ALL of the bakeries featured in my London guides (plus a few extra, 60+ total!) so you can see exactly how near you are to an incredible vegan bake in real-time. It’s completely free for all and the only thing I ask is that you use it and share it as much as possible. So, go and support these brilliant businesses, explore the city and discover the beauty of plant-based food!

More on the full map and other bakery related tips below, but first let’s head to North London…

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Crumb, Angel

A short stroll from Angel station you’ll find Crumb’s bright yellow hatch selling an assortment of delicious vegan cookies. Everything is plant-based and you can choose from one of their classics or opt for a seasonal special. Grab one (if you have sufficient self-restraint) or get a box.

8 Charlton Place, London N1 8AJ

British Patagonia, Islington

A key destination for anyone seeking out the best plant-based bakes in London. It’s not fully vegan but they have loads of vegan options to choose from including seasonal specials that’ll keep luring you back. You’ll find some of the best laminated pastries here, as well as over-the-top concoctions like their famous soft-serve filled croissant cones. FYI they also have vegan pizza on the menu should you want something savoury before (or after!) dessert.

178 Upper St, London N1 1RG

The Fields Beneath, Kentish Town

Not a bakery but a plant-based café with some nice sweet and savoury baked good options. They have a wide array of tasty treats including doughnuts, filled croissants, cookies and cakes, plus more robust lunch options too. Come for the food and stay for the warm, neighbourhood feel.

52A Prince of Wales Road, London, United Kingdom NW5 3LN

The Dusty Knuckle, Haringey & Highbury

A favourite of many Londoners, The Dusty Knuckle bakeries produce some of the best bread and baked goodies in town. Their sweet plant-based offering is limited but they usually have a couple of savoury options including some of the best vegan sandwiches out there. In North London you can find them on Green Lanes or check out their van in Highbury Fields. They also have a spot in Dalston, featured in my East London guide.

Haringey: 429 Green Lanes, Harringay Ladder, London N4 1HA; Highbury Van: 44 Highbury Pl, London N5 1QL

De Beauvoir Deli, De Beauvoir

Another non-bakery entry (sorry!), but this North London deli is a spot you need up your sleeve, especially when you’re after some good savoury bakes. Options include plant-based sandwiches, bagels, pasties and a few sweet treats, like chocolate loaf, too. Be sure to look out for some nice vegan food products to pick up while you’re there.

98 Southgate Rd, London N1 3JD

The After School Cookie Club, King’s Cross & Camden Town

A second vegan cookie specialist for the list, in the form of two branches of The After School Cookie Club. With several locations across town they have spots in two of North London busiest hubs, Camden Market & King’s Cross (a handy pit-stop before you board your train). It’s always good to see a friendly face amidst the crowds.

King’s Cross: London N1C 4UR; Camden Town: 68, West Yard, Camden Lock Pl, London NW1 8AF

Buns from Home, Various Locations

Buns from Home seem to have taken over all of London, with new branches popping up all the time. This laminated bun chain is mostly non-vegan but they do have a nice plant-based cinnamon bun. With so many stores across town it means you’re never usually far from one. In North London they have two Camden outposts, one in Angel (just around the corner from Crumb by the way), one inside King’s Cross Station and another in Crouch End.

Camden Market: unit 65 Camden Market, NW1 8AF; Camden Arch: Arch 13 15 Water Ln, NW1 8JY; Angel: 12 Camden Passage, N1 8ED; King’s Cross: King’s Cross Station, Euston Rd, N1 9AL; Crouch End: 47 The Broadway London N8 8DT

Café de Nata, Camden Town

A chain I’ve featured previously and another friendly place in the ever-crowded maze that is Camden Town. They specialise in Portuguese pastéis de nata, as the name suggests, and luckily for us they also make a number of vegan versions, both classic and flavoured iterations. You’ll find a fair few other branches across town.

209 Chalk Farm Rd, London NW1 8AB

The Map

A few things to note when using the map:

1. The map includes the spots featured in my London bakery guides plus a number of additional entries I have continued to collate. I aim to update the list periodically and encourage you to share any I may have missed in the comments section of this post - the more the merrier!

2. As I have mentioned previously, not all entries are ‘bakeries’ per se. Many are delis, cafés or other types of businesses that serve baked goods of some kind.

3. Where I’ve included a chain please be aware that I may not have pinned every single one of their branches (e.g. Buns from Home which has a large number of spaces).

4. Important: the range of vegan options for each entry varies greatly and menus often change! Some are all-vegan establishments with many options, while others may only have a couple of choices. I have tried my best to detail what to expect (at the time of writing) in the notes section under each entry, but as menus and availability often change please check in with the business directly to avoid disappointment, especially if their vegan options are already on the limited end or you’re travelling from afar.

Where Else?

If 60+ bakeries somehow still doesn’t feel like enough choice, fear not, I HAVE MORE pointers! There a few places you can source some great vegan baked goodies but don’t quite fall within the parameters of the guides or the map. Some don’t have a fixed location, others fall too far outside the ‘bakery’ format and others just aren’t quite special enough to make the list. In the spirit of completeness and putting silly technicalities aside I’ve listed them out here for you.

Khourys

If you don’t know about Khourys, get to know it fast! It’s the brainchild of Philip Khoury, ex Harrods head pastry chef and one of the world’s leading pioneers of plant-based baking. The brand specialises in elaborate chocolate bars (this feels reductive to be honest, they’re absolute masterpieces!) sold via their online shop or in store at Harrods but they also do occasional bakery pop-ups, often near their Stratford workshop, with one of the best selections of vegan baked goods anywhere. Follow them on instagram (@khourys.co) for future dates.

Vegan-friendly Chains

The guides and map feature mostly independent spots with only a few chains included (After School Cookie Club, Buns from Home, Café de Nata etc) but there are a fair few others across London where you can find some vegan bits. They won’t necessarily have the best products ever but can sort you out in a pinch. A few that come to mind: Doughnut Time (several doughnut options), Ole & Steen (cinnamon slice), Lola’s Cupcakes (a few cupcake options), Crosstown Doughnuts (several doughnuts), Colicci (London parks café chain that usually has some vg bakes), GRIND (oat-y cookie).

Supermarkets

You can also usually find a few handy pre-packaged or in-store bakery options from the following supermarkets: Whole Foods, Planet Organic, M&S Plant Kitchen bakery items (e.g. cookies).

That’s a wrap! I hope you enjoyed this edition of canasta and I’d love to hear if you find the guides and the new map feature helpful. And, if I’ve missed any of your favourites, let me know in the comments below!

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The things we do for our pets…A few weeks ago we loaded up the car, settled our dog, Rumi, into the backseat and set off on our three-day journey from London to Provence. This was our second time doing this road trip but my first time since becoming vegan. We staggered our drive over two nights, making a slight detour to visit Strasbourg for our first stop before heading down to Lyon for the second.

Eating vegan in France can be a struggle. Most of the vegetarian options come smothered in cheese, butter or cream, and outside the larger cities even plant-based supermarket options dwindle. Personally, I’d say it’s the country I’ve most struggled with food-wise since becoming vegan but don’t get me wrong, there are always options if you know where to look and what to look out for. Below I’m outlining all the places I found as we explored Provence, plus a couple of pointers for the places we passed through on our road trip.

There are many places I didn’t get to try because I was with my dog (who hates restaurants) and because we were renting a house so did a fair bit of home cooking. My list is therefore skewed towards bakeries and other quick pit-stops (ice cream parlours, markets, organic food shops etc) rather than sit down establishments – but fear not! I’ve also listed out the places I didn’t get to visit but have saved for next time at the bottom. I hope you find this post helpful for your itineraries and let me know in the comments if I’ve missed any of your favourite vegan gems.

Enjoy,

Daniela x

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STRASBOURG

Origin Coffee Shop Vegetal

Bustling vegan café in central Strasbourg, with sweet and savoury, sit-in and takeaway options. I ordered a pain au chocolat and coffee for breakfast and picked up a couple of their ‘tortillas’ for the road. The pastry was a little squashed from being piled up on the shelf but tasty nonetheless and I would recommend getting the Spanish-style tortilla over the vegetable one, it was delicious!

La Nouvelle Douane Market

If you’re in Strasbourg on a Saturday morning head to rue du Vieux-Marché-aux-Poissons where you’ll find a lively farmers market. A string of colourful stalls are stacked with local produce, including loads of seasonal fruit and veg. We picked up some of the best strawberries we’ve ever had here!

LYON

Terre adélice

I’m always over the moon when I find an ice cream shop with vegan options that go beyond the standard berry sorbet. We stumbled upon Terre adélice while walking through the narrow alleyways of Lyon’s old quarter and were truly astounded at the number of plant-based options (all clearly marked too!). I went for purple fig and dark chocolate sorbet but they had options as diverse as hibiscus with mint, tomato-basil, sudachi, pomelo, chestnut and more.

PROVENCE

L’ISLE-SUR-LA-SORGUE

Our base camp for the trip. We were staying at a traditional Provençal ‘Mas’ (farmhouse) just outside of town and would pop in for provisions. Head to Maison Jouvaud for tubs of really lovely sorbets. I got their apricot one - not overly sweet with a really strong, natural apricot flavour.

For our daily bread run we’d go to Convert La Boulangerie (previously Boulangerie Lefevre). Get the traditional baguette and their fougasse or focaccia (both naturally vegan).

AIX-EN-PROVENCE

Land & Monkeys

The Provençal outpost of the much-loved French vegan bakery chain. The counter is full of enticing options, making it really difficult to make a selection. I picked up a pain au chocolat and a chocolate brioche, plus their famous vanilla flan patisserie - all three were incredible. I wish they would open a store in London!

AVIGNON

Le Glacier de la Mirande

Tucked behind the Palais des Papes is a beautiful little ice cream shop with limited sorbet flavours but plenty of retro charm. I went for melon and mango - both very good in a heatwave.

MARSEILLE

Oh Faon!

Devastated to have only been in Marseille on a Monday when Oh Faon! is closed – it’s number one on my list for next time. This all-vegan patisserie comes highly recommended and just by looking at pictures of their incredible creations it’s obvious why.

Panisse Spots

Panisses, traditional chickpea fritters, are synonymous with Marseille and if you’re after a great snack, this is your naturally vegan go-to. For a central spot near the marina you can find freshly fried ones at Farfalou. Although, if you have time you should head out the L’Estaque neighbourhood for the most authentic (and best, so I’m told) panisses.

Extra: Maison Empereur

Not a food recommendation but a food-adjacent spot for when you’re in Marseille. Maison Empereur is one of France’s most iconic kitchen-ware stores and an absolute treasure trove for cooks and food-lovers. I could have easily spent all afternoon in there exploring room after room of shiny utensils. I brought home a very sweet fish-shaped lemon juicer and one of their cobalt blue half aprons.

FOOD SHOPS & MARKETS

Naturalia

We came across branches of this organic food shop all over our route, from Strasbourg to Marseille. They’re usually pretty centrally located and have a wide array of natural food products including many vegan bits you may not find in supermarkets.

Roadside Fruit & Veg Stalls

All over France, especially in the South and even more so during the summer months when produce is abundant, you’ll find lots of roadside fruit and veg stalls dotted around. In June, there were bountiful piles of peaches, apricots, strawberries, cherries, tomatoes and more. Make sure you have some cash!

Fresh Produce Markets

Most towns across Provence will have market days so make sure to check beforehand and get up early to get the freshest seasonal produce on offer. You’re bound to find one on at a nearby town on any given day of the week.

SERVICE STATION FOOD

If you’re driving through France I highly advise you pick up food and snacks in the bigger cities before hitting the motorways because service station options are severely limited. If you’re not able to, your best bet is to stop at one of the TotalEnergies aires as they currently stock La Vie sandwiches.

TRADITIONALLY VEGAN DISHES

Olive oil is used more widely in the South meaning many vegetarian dishes are also vegan. Here are some of the traditional vegan foods you should look out for in Provence (always double-check with the restaurant!):

• Tian Provençal

• Pissaladiere (the traditional onion one provided no anchovies are added)

• Fougasse

• Panisses

• Tapenade (if without anchovies)

• Riste d'Aubergine

• Ratatouille

TOWNS TO VISIT

We were based just outside the Luberon and managed to visit a few towns during our stay. Here are some of our favourites:

• L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue (known as the antiques capital of Provence)

• Gordes (make a stop at the nearby Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque)

• Roussillon

• Ménerbes

FOR NEXT TIME

Next time I find myself in Provence, without my four-legged boy, these are the places I have pinned for leisurely lunches and beautiful dinners:

• Mauvaise Herbe - Bistrot Végétal, Marseille (vegetarian bistro with plenty of vegan options)

• Cocotero, Marseille (relaxed veggie eatery with plant-based options)

• Mariposas, Marseille (Cocotero’s fully-vegan sister restaurant)

• La Table de Xavier Mathieu, Joucas (Michelin-starred French fine dining with vegan menu option)

• Restaurant Dan B., Ventabren (Michelin-starred French fine dining with vegan set menu available)

• Chez Ama, Aix (casual spot for hearty Ethiopian platters)

• Jardin Secret, Cotignac (vegan dishes available on request in a beautiful garden setting)

• Oh Faon!, Marseille (as mentioned above! all-vegan bakery but note it’s closed on Mondays)

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After several vegan guides for destinations around the world (you can find them all here) I figure it’s about time I made a restaurant guide for London, my hometown. Cited regularly as one of the most vegan-friendly cities in the world, I can personally attest to the fact that London has one of the best vegan scenes anywhere. From sushi (reimagined) to traditional Ethiopian platters, humble stalls all the way to Michelin-starred dining rooms, us Londoners are truly spoilt for choice. In fact, there are so many great options that when compiling this list, I had to split it in two to keep each post to a digestible length. This is by no means exhaustive list but rather a compilation of the restaurants I personally consider essential to the vegan fabric of the city. Part I will cover fully vegan and vegetarian spots only. Most are fully vegan establishments but I’ve included a few vegetarian restaurants too, all of which have a substantial vegan offering. Part II, forthcoming, will focus on omni restaurants with excellent plant-based options.

I hope this list serves as a handy resource that you can revisit whenever you need and one that you can readily share with friends at the press of a button. Nice and succinct, no need to rummage through the endless little squares in your various random ‘saved’ folders. I’ll also be reviewing it periodically to keep on top of all the latest openings so make sure you’re subscribed to get all the future updates.

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As always, let me know which your favourites are and if there are any spots you love that aren’t on the list please do share their names in the comments sections – the more the merrier. Now, go eat some great food and support these brilliant businesses!

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Vegan

1. Plates

What: The UK’s first, and only, Michelin-starred plant-based restaurant serving mind-blowing fine-dining tasting menus with a focus on plant-forward innovation and seasonal produce.

Where: Shoreditch

2. Holy Carrot Notting Hill

What: Trendy, upscale restaurant serving polished plant-based fare, notable for their use of fermentation and live fire cooking.

Where: Notting Hill

3. Naifs

What: Understated bistro serving elegant, seasonal dishes accompanied by a beautiful selection of natural wines and drinks.

Where: Peckham

4. Mildreds

What: A beloved vegan institution. With several branches across town Mildred’s is the type of place you turn to when you want reliable, comforting food and a ‘welcome home’ feel.

Where: Camden, Covent Garden, King’s Cross, Soho, Victoria

5. Mallow

What: Mildreds’ younger, sleeker sister. Like Mildreds, the menu takes inspiration from across the globe and reads like a list of delicious crowd-pleasers. The breakfast and dessert menus are particularly good.

Where: Borough

6. Tofu Vegan

What: A favourite among London vegans for good reason. Classic Chinese staples are adapted to a 100% plant-based menu that doesn’t lose sight of the flavours we know and love.

Where: Fitzrovia, Gloucester Road, Golders Green, Islington, Spitalfields (plus another branch in Brighton)

7. Gauthier Soho

What: Fine-dining restaurant helmed by Alexis Gauthier, the classically trained French chef turned vocal vegan advocate. With a focus on technical cookery and innovation, Gauthier’s food is proof that even traditionally meat and dairy-heavy cuisines like the French one can go plant-based.

Where: Soho

8. 123V Browns

What: All-vegan sushi eatery at one of London’s most iconic boutique department stores. Part of the Gauthier gang, 123V Browns offers á la carte and bottomless options best enjoyed in their serene courtyard garden.

Where: Mayfair

9. Studio Gauthier

What: The third iteration in the Gauthier universe is its most laid-back space with a menu featuring mostly burgers and sushi. It’s located at the BFI Building alongside the 123V Bakery.

Where: Fitzrovia

10. Pockets

What: Counting vegans and non-vegans alike among its loyal following, Pockets is the place to go for a falafel pitta that goes well beyond the average wrap.

Where: London Fields

11. Beza

What: Giant platters of pure nourishment. Traditional Ethiopian injera are topped with a kaleidoscope of wholesome vegetables and pulses.

Where: Elephant & Castle

12. Merkamo

What: Another great spot for traditionally vegan Ethiopian food for when you’re in East London and want something deeply nutritious. They have a restaurant just off Brick Lane and a stall inside Old Spitalfields Market.

Where: Spitalfields

13. Purezza

What: Award-winning, all-vegan pizzeria featuring twelve different sourdough pizzas to choose from plus a selection of starters and desserts.

Where: Camden Town

14. The Cheese Cellar at Purezza

What: Not quite a stand-alone restaurant per se but very Friday and Saturday evening, Purezza’s basement becomes The Cheese Cellar, a vegan cheese and wine dreamland.

Where: Camden Town

15. Jam Delish

What: Bold, hearty dishes that make the most of Caribbean flavours to produce dishes that are both delicious and refined.

Where: Angel

16. Itadaki Zen

What: A firm favourite for moreish Japanese cuisine. The menu features much-loved classic staples like ramen, gyoza and hot tofu dishes.

Where: King’s Cross

17. IMA

What: For when avocado maki just won’t cut it head to IMA and indulge in all the vegan sushi options imaginable.

Where: Clerkenwell

18. Plants of Roselyn

What: A vegan restaurant that celebrates the tropical abundance of Thailand. You’ll have a hard time choosing from the menu and make sure you leave room for dessert.

Where: London Bridge

19. Magic Falafel

What: The only thing I’ll brave Camden Market for. Crisp falafel, fluffy pitta, zingy salad and all the pickles.

Where: Camden Town

20. En Root

What: A South London vegan staple, En Root is a casual eatery serving up wholesome Indian-inspired dishes.

Where: Clapham & Peckham

21. Facing Heaven

What: The flavours of Sichuan via LA, courtesy of chef Julian Denis. Expect items like tiger-skin pepper cheeseburger in this fun East London spot.

Where: London Fields

22. Unity Diner

What: Recently reopened to celebratory cheers from London’s vegan community, Unity Diner is the home of vegan comfort food. Expect plenty of faux meats here - they even have a Sunday Carvery.

Where: Spitalfields

23. The Spread Eagle

What: British pub food with a vegan twist, The Spread Eagle is known most of all for its iconic plant-based Sunday Roast.

Where: Homerton

24. Mali Vegan Thai

What: A charming Thai spot in West London full of classics like pad Thai, Tom Yum soup and Green Curry.

Where: Earl’s Court

25. The Coven of Wiches

What: Tiny unit inside Wood Street Market serving maximalist sandwiches and other inventive accoutrements.

Where: Walthamstow

26. All Nations Vegan House

What: Go-to spot for Ital cooking with a menu full of wholefood-based goodness, including stews, soups, cakes, sea moss drinks and more.

Where: Stoke Newington

27. Daun’s

What: Laid-back Scandinavian café open for breakfast, brunch and lunch located a short stroll from Brick Lane. The menu features Scandi favourites like ‘meatballs’ and mash, hot dogs, smörrebröd and cinnamon buns.

Where: Spitalfields

28. KIN

What: Colourful, globally inspired dishes in a relaxed, centrally located setting. You’ll also find their café/deli next door.

Where: Fitzrovia

Vegetarian

29. Bubala

What: A favourite amongst vegans, vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Sleek, Middle-eastern small plates restaurant with three locations across town.

Where: Soho & King’s Cross

30. Tendril

What: Refined, ‘mostly-vegan’ restaurant celebrating vegetables in elegant dishes with little nods to global influences. The tiramisu is a must.

Where: Mayfair

31. Café Petiole

What: Beautiful, cosy café nestled in a corner of Somerset House, from the same team behind Tendril. Great for sweet treats (including the aforementioned Tendril tiramisu) and lovely lunch bites.

Where: Temple

32. Tangra

What: A more recent opening, Tangra brings Indo-Chinese flavours to the heart of Soho. It’s a vegetarian restaurant but more than half of the menu is vegan, including all the desserts.

Where: Soho

33. Holy Carrot Spitalfields

What: Following the success of the original space in Notting Hill, Holy Carrot opened up a second restaurant in East London this year. Expect similar fare however where the original is fully plant-based, the Spitalfields menu includes eggs and dairy.

Where: Spitalfields

34. The Gate

What: A veteran of London’s vegetarian/vegan scene, The Gate has been serving plant-forward food since the 80s. Today its menu is predominantly vegan, minus a few exceptions, and features colourful wholefood dishes like Mushroom Wellington and Aubergine Schnitzel. PS They have a beautiful courtyard for al fresco dining.

Where: Hammersmith

35. Govinda’s

What: One of London’s very first fully vegetarian restaurants, established in 1979. Serving as the culinary extension for the Radha Krishna Temple, Govinda’s offers affordable nourishing Indian food, particularly thalis, in their two canteen-style restaurants.

Where: Soho & Holborn

I hope you enjoyed this edition of Canasta. If you’re vegan, plant-based, flexi, or simply curious about incorporating more cruelty-free choices into your life then this is for you. Subscribe to receive a weekly vegan food and lifestyle newsletter including recipes, restaurant reviews, travel guides and more. Follow @canastavegan on Instagram for extra recommendations.

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When travelling, it’s rare that I rely on our hotel’s food options for anything other than breakfast. However, there are times, especially after months of being battered by miserable British weather, when all I want is an easy holiday. To stretch out on a sun lounger knowing the hardest decision each morning is deciding whether to have my coffee iced or not. Back in January, in the midst of the dark, post-Christmas gloom, my partner and I escaped to Antigua for exactly this type of break.

We checked into Hermitage Bay, on the sun-drenched island of Antigua, a 30-villa, adults-only, all-inclusive resort. It’s located on the west coast of the island set on a secluded hillside overlooking a gentle, azure bay. Recently revamped, this five-star, all-inclusive Antiguan institution gave us just the right balance of modern comfort, sensitive design and warm hospitality. Safe to say we came back to London sufficiently rested and solar charged to get us through all the way to Spring.

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The Property

The villas are peppered along the beach and up the hillside amidst the lush gardens. The property includes a restaurant, beach club, pool-side lounge bar, beach bar, spa, gym, yoga studio, kitchen garden and water sports hub. Cool-toned woods and elevated organic detailing, used throughout the villas and the wider resort facilities, blend in seamlessly with the tropical surroundings for a natural but refined atmosphere. The resort is very peaceful throughout the day, with other guests mostly encountered at meal-times.

The Villa

We stayed in one of the Beach Pool Villas, nestled amidst the foliage of the grounds for optimal privacy while still being close to the beach and most amenities. The highlights of the villa were the private pool, outdoor rainfall shower, huge indoor bathtub, ample indoor and outdoor seating areas and a very comfortable bed complete with an all-important mosquito net.

So, how vegan-friendly is it?

I didn’t have much information to go on before my stay. Aside from a single review mentioning ‘vegan sushi’ and my faith in the influence of Ital cuisine trickling down into the kitchen, I simply filled in my dietary restrictions on the pre-arrival forms and hoped for the best. In the end however, not only did I end up getting the vegan sushi (more on this later) but to my surprise I got to feast on a whole plethora of imaginative plant-based dishes all week, from jerk tofu and plantain ceviche to a rustic French lentil salad courtesy of a transatlantic pop-up collab. All my expectations were surpassed and I was one very happy vegan.

Breakfast

Breakfast is served at the main restaurant or in-room, and while none of the options were specifically vegan, across the week I was able to try a number of adapted breakfasts. Incidentally vegan items like sliced fruit, fresh juices, a selection of breads and homemade jams were available everyday, as well as various plant-milks to choose from. For my main I alternated between a breakfast wrap filled with sautéed peppers, mushrooms, spinach and avocado, and a breakfast plate comprised of ‘chop up’ (a traditionally vegan Antiguan vegetable mash), fried potatoes, mushrooms and sliced avocado. Both so good my non-vegan partner ordered them another day.

Lunch & Day Snacks

Lunch was served at the beach club which during our stay hosted the pop-up collab with the French restaurant, La Petite Maison. The pop-up brings French Mediterranean cuisine to the shores of Antigua, and although I usually prefer to immerse myself in local flavours, the meals did offer another level of variety to my dining. Options were a little limited but enjoyable. Dishes included a rustic lentil salad, marinated peppers, tomato spaghetti, fruit carpaccio and a few sorbets.

If you’re feeling peckish during the day there’s also a bar food menu at the lounge bar, although vegan options are limited here. On a couple of occasions I ordered the tostones, crispy twice-fried plantain discs ubiquitous across many Caribbean and Latin American nations, and a personal favourite.

Afternoon Sushi

In the late afternoon, sushi is served daily at the Tree Bar on the beach. Chefs from Nobu on the neighbouring island of Barbuda come in to prepare fresh sushi for guests. It proves popular so pre-booking the morning of is essential. My vegan sushi was really excellent. Across a few days I had marinated aubergine nigiri, asparagus and pepper maki, plantain and cucumber uramaki and many more. Each of my platters was prepared with the same level of attention, variety and care as the non-vegan counterparts.

Dinner

Dinner is where the food really stood out for me. Each afternoon I would receive a changing menu from the chef with multiple options for starter, soup and main courses, from which to pre-order my dinner selection. Every day the menu was inventive and diverse, drawing on influences from both Caribbean and international flavours. I had dishes as varied as plantain ceviche, coconut milk risotto with grilled courgettes, jerk crusted tofu, cassava with a mojo sauce, Christophine and tomato soup, and many more. As the only vegan dinner at the resort during my stay, the care given to my meals was really impressive and completely made my experience.

Resort Activities

There are plenty of activities and entertainment provided including cooking demos, yoga and pilates classes, live music and a number of water sports. I would highly recommend booking the kitchen garden tour with the resort’s head gardener. You’ll get to see their small cultivations of a wide variety of fruits, vegetables and herbs including okra, papayas, avocados, plantain, leafy greens and more.

If you get restless and crave a little physical activity I’d also recommend booking a kayak from the water sports hub and paddling over to the tiny neighbouring beach to the left of the resort’s bay. It’s usually empty and the seclusion offers a castaway feel. We also hired a boat for a short ride around the surrounding coastline, enjoying new perspectives from the water and a bumpy, but thoroughly enjoyable, excursion.

Beyond the Resort

We were based at the resort throughout most of our stay but we did manage to venture out for a day to explore some of the island. St John’s, Antigua’s capital, is home to Heritage Quay & Redcliff Quay, lined with the brightly coloured waterfronts synonymous with the island. Try to avert your gaze from the domineering cruise ships that dock here and seek out the food market instead, ideally on Friday or Saturday morning if you can. If you’re there between June and August, track down the famous Antigua Black Pineapple while it’s in season. Other fruity delicacies to look out include soursop, coconut, sugar apples, mango and papaya.

To the south of the island you’ll find Nelson’s Dockyard, one of the oldest continually working dockyards in the world, originally established as a British Royal Navy base. The dockyard is still in use today, hosting major sailing events throughout the year, with many of its colonial-era buildings transformed into museums, restaurants and shops. A short drive away you can visit Shirley Heights, a popular viewpoint overlooking English Harbour. On Sunday evenings, locals and tourists gather there at sunset for a full-blown party in Antiguan style: barbecue, rum punch and live music all night.

We didn’t get time to explore the beaches beyond the hotel but driving around the island it’s safe to say there is no shortage of sandy stretches. The one thing I would encourage you to avoid is the animal-related ‘experiences’, like stingray city. There is so much local fauna to admire, there really is no need to cause a wild animal unnecessary stress. In and around the resort alone we spotted mongooses, lizards, hermit crabs, plenty of birds (one visited our villa every day and became our little friend!) and of course our neighbours, the tree frogs - who treated us to a loud symphony of croaking every night, from dusk till dawn (you get used to it somehow…)

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Follow @canastavegan on Instagram for extra recommendations.

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After months of lying dormant I’m finally starting to slowly make my way back to canasta. Time seems to have completely slipped away from me and it was only when Venice Biennale images flooded my feed a few weeks ago that I realised it’s been almost a whole year(!) since I visited the city. I was there last June and had promised to share my guide with you all but never quite got around to it. So, to mark my return, and just about beat the 1-year mark, it’s time I made good on my promise.

For context, this was mine and my partner’s first time in Venice. Having somewhat avoided this trip for years, mostly out of fear of the heavy crowds, we finally booked it. It was a short and sweet three-night stay during one of the city’s busiest months. The crowds can be really intense during the day, and especially testing in the summer heat but come evening, the city drastically empties out of day-trippers and cruise hoppers. Once the sun starts to set you’ll see the city transform and give way to the fabled magic of Venice. Inky glistening canals, elegant palazzos lit up from within and pockets of lively chatter - that’s the version of Venice I took home with me.

Now, on to the matter of FOOD. Unlike many other Italian cities, Venice isn’t regularly cited for its food scene, if anything, it’s quite infamous for its density of tourist traps. It’s also not known to be particularly vegan-friendly either. There is only one vegan establishment (La Tecia Vegana) in the entire city and most restaurants don’t have much information about their menus online, which makes planning ahead a little trickier. It is definitely very easy to eat badly in Venice, vegan or not, but past the pizza deals and fast food chains there are some real gems. Despite some natural apprehension, and as I’ve mentioned before in my previous Italy guides, I had faith in that I’m yet to be let down by the Italians when it comes to plant-based cooking, and thankfully Venice was not going to be the exception.

Below I’ve gathered a list of my favourite spots from this trip plus a few travel pointers for your itinerary. There is also a handy Venice highlight on my Instagram page (@canastavegan) if you want to have a look at that too.

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The Hotel: Ca’ di Dio

Dating back to the 13th century, the building was originally a hostel for pilgrims and although many of the original architectural details remain, today it stands as a much more plush design-led boutique hotel. The interiors are contemporary but distinctly Italian, with clever little nods to traditional Venetian craft dotted throughout. I particularly loved details like the pointed velvet slippers and the Murano glass features. The hotel is located a short stroll from the Arsenale with sweeping views across the lagoon and can be accessed directly from the water. Arriving via water taxi straight from the airport will definitely be hard to surpass as a check-in experience.

At breakfast, the buffet included a small selection of vegan cakes as well as some warm vegetable dishes and fresh fruit. We didn’t order room service or eat at the restaurant at other times during our stay so can’t comment on those options.

Where to Eat

Corte Sconta

Who knew a seafood restaurant in Venice would a) serve vegan food beyond some basic vegetable sides and b) actually deliver plant-based food made with both care and flair? At Corte Sconta I had a full three-course menu including a celeriac carpaccio starter (pictured), followed by a tofu, sweet potato cream and asparagus main, and an orange sorbet to finish. Book a table in their peaceful courtyard and settle in for a meal that will make you smile from beginning to end.

Bacaro ae Bricae

Venice is the home of cicchetti, small snacking plates usually enjoyed with a drink at a bar, akin to Spanish tapas. After wandering into several bars on the hunt for vegan ones I was starting to lose hope. Traditionally, most feature cured meats, tinned fish or cheese in some way but I wasn’t ready to give up. Strolling around Cannaregio I finally managed to track one down: a lentil, brown rice and mushroom polpetta at Bacaro ae Bricae. Paired with a glass of wine, it goes down a treat.

Trattoria Anticche Carampane

Simple food done well is all anyone, including vegans, need. At this beloved Venetian spot, popular with tourists and locals alike, that’s exactly what you can count on. They accommodated my requirements with no issue, offering grilled artichoke hearts to start, spaghetti al pomodoro for my main and a summer berry sorbet for dessert. Sure, on paper tomato pasta and sorbet sound quite basic but when these Italian classics are done really well, with expertise and good quality ingredients, there really is nothing you could possibly complain about.

Trattoria al Gatto Nero

If you’re heading out to the colourful island of Burano, you can find similar fare at the Bourdain-approved Trattoria al Gatto Nero. This local institution serves classic dishes right by the water and vegans are welcomed just fine. Here I tucked into another great tomato pasta followed by a simple but delicious plate of artichoke hearts and peas. Sitting canal-side, an ice cold Campari spritz provided the essential hydration to combat the summer heat.

Galonetto Gelato

Good ice cream isn’t as easy to come by in Venice as in other Italian cities but you can still get a good scoop if you know where to look. You’ll need to brace yourself for the tightly packed alleyway Galonetto Gelato is on but once you’ve got your alphonso mango and prickly pear sorbetti all will be forgiven.

Gelato di Natura

For more vegan-friendly scoops head to Gelato di Natura. After a few fruity sorbets I was after something a bit more decadent and their chocolate sorbet was just what I needed. Rich and dark, it was the perfect afternoon treat.

Drinks

Vino Vero

For good wine head to Vino Vero in Cannaregio. The cicchetti selection didn’t have any vegan options but the wine selection kept me happy until dinner. Just take care not to fall into the canal if you’ve had a few glasses…

Caffè Florian

For a fun pick-me-up in between sightseeing head to Caffè Florian on St. Mark’s Square. The ornate gilt interiors and dapper waiters will transport you back in time as you sip on a classic Venetian spritz, or two...

Harry’s Bar

When in Venice for the first time we had to drop by Harry’s Bar. Long before the worldwide proliferation of the brand, the original Harry’s was born here in Venice. Given its fame I assumed it would be horrendously busy but to my surprise tables were readily available in the early evening when we visited. Grab a drink, snack on some olives and soak in its storied charm.

For Next Time

Osteria La Zucca

One to book far in advance. Osteria La Zucca isn’t strictly vegetarian but they feature vegetable dishes heavily on their menu. Blending traditional Venetian cuisine with a plant-forward approach, it proves popular with locals and tourists alike. So much so that by the time I tried to make a booking (about a month prior), all the tables had gone. This one is definitely top of my list for next time.

What to Do

Aside from the key sights, these are some of things I particularly enjoyed, as a first-timer, on my short trip:

• Negozio Olivetti - If, like me, you’re a Carlo Scarpa fan or just have a penchant for great design, this is a great spot for a short drop-in when you’re around St. Mark’s Square.

• Peggy Guggenheim Collection - Home to one of the greatest collections of 20th century art by one the art world’s most legendary patrons. The works by Calder and Pollock are particularly special in situ.

• Cannaregio - Not a specific place but the entire neighbourhood is lovely for leisurely bar-hopping in the evening. The atmosphere is lively and much more local in feel than the centre.

• Gondola Ride - It was our first time in Venice so of course we had to do a Gondola Ride. Without trying to sound like a broken record, again, I highly recommend doing an evening/night ride when the canals are far less congested and the historic buildings are lit up in a warm glow.

I hope you enjoyed this edition of canasta and let me know in the comments what your favourite Venetian spots are.

I’ll be heading back to Italy twice this summer so stay tuned for more guides to come and make sure to follow along on Instagram.

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When people often tell me they couldn’t be vegan because it’s too restrictive, I understand. Not because it’s true, but because before I was vegan I too held the same belief. Back then I couldn’t see that most of the variety in the foods I was consuming was already coming from plants. When we speak of “seasonality”, we mostly refer to “what plants are in season?”. Eating citrus in winter, making the most of tomatoes in summer etc. The majority of my pantry staples were plant-based by default: pulses, oils, vinegars, nuts, seeds, rice, pasta, flours, and so on. The entire spice world is essentially “vegan” and yet I would have never thought of it like that before.

Now my spice drawer feels like an abundant apothecary, each pot holding a magical potion that can transform a dish from the mundane to the sublime. As I’ve delved deeper into plant-based eating, I’ve also delved much deeper into the spice kingdom. Some pots I reach for regularly, others are reserved for specific dishes, and others are so prized I use them with ceremonial-grade care. For me, saffron is definitely the king of the latter group. Vegan food is often labelled as dull and austere and yet here we have saffron, one of the most prized food items in the world. Painstakingly harvested from the crocus flower, these tiny filaments are culinary gold. From its sweet, earthy flavour and perfumed aroma to its unmistakeable golden hue, saffron demonstrates just how special plants can be when we learn to value them.

I always want to give saffron centre stage when I cook with it, and while it’s delicious in savoury dishes I actually think it shines brighter in desserts, especially milky ones. Sugar enhances its natural sweetness and building it into a creamy neutral base gives it enough body to truly sing. It works wonderfully in ice cream or rice pudding but my personal favourite vehicle is a tender Tres Leches cake. The delicate sponge is bathed in a mix of evaporated, condensed and regular plant milks spiked with a heady dose of saffron. It’s left to rest overnight to develop a custard-like quality before it’s topped with a cloud of airy whipped cream to serve. Each bite is intensely luxurious yet light enough to make you keep coming back for more. The moral of the story is we mustn’t underestimate plants, and the proof really is in the pudding.

With love, Daniela x

PS my first ever post featured a cheat recipe for saffron ice cream - you can find it here.

The Recipe

Duration: 15min prep time; 35-40mins baking time; Min. 4hrs chilling time. Serves 9

Sponge:

• 110g caster sugar

• 15g cornflour

• 1g flaky salt

• 160g plain flour

• 1 ½ tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp baking soda

• 250g soy yoghurt

• 120ml soy milk (or other plant milk)

• 60g vegetable oil (or other neutral oil)

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 2 pinches of saffron strands

Milk Mix:

• 170ml soy milk (or other plant milk)

• 200ml evaporated coconut milk*

• 350g condensed coconut milk*

• 3 pinches of saffron

Whipped Cream:

• 250ml plant-based double cream (I used Elmea)

• 1tsp icing sugar

Method

1. Preheat oven to 170c fan (190c conventional). Lightly grease a shallow ovenproof tray or dish. I used a 31cm x 20cm x 6cm glass dish.

2. Sift all the dry cake ingredients, minus the saffron, into a large mixing bowl.

3. In a pestle and mortar grind up the saffron to a powder. Take 20ml of the milk and warm it through (using a microwave is the easiest) then pour it over the saffron to ‘bloom’ it. Let it stand for a couple of minutes.

4. In a separate medium bowl lightly hand whisk together all the wet cake ingredients until loosely homogenised then add the saffron mixture and mix through.

5. Add the wet mix to the dry mix and whisk together gently until the batter is smooth, with no flour lumps - do not over work the batter.

6. Pour the batter into the prepared tray and bake for approx. 35-40mins, until a toothpick comes out clean.

7. To prepare the milk mix, as before, ‘bloom’ the ground saffron in 30ml of warm milk then mix it in with all the other milk ingredients until smooth. Reserve a third of this mix separately in the fridge, ready for serving.

8. Once baked, take the cake out of the oven and leave to cool for 15mins.

9. Using a toothpick poke holes evenly over the whole cake, all the way to the bottom of the tray.

10. Pour the remaining two-thirds of the milk mix over the cake slowly in 2-3 batches. Allow the mix to seep into the cake for a few minutes with each pour. Once you’ve added all the liquid leave it to stand at room temperature for 30 mins before covering with clingfilm and refrigerating for a minimum of 4hrs, ideally overnight.

11. Whip the double cream and icing sugar until airy and structured.

12. Spread the whipped cream over the chilled cake. Cut into 9 even squares and serve with an extra drizzle of the reserved milk mix.

Enjoy - and please try your best to share…

Note: For the vegan condensed and evaporated milks I used Nature’s Choice coconut based products. They also have oat based versions of both, but I haven’t tried them so can’t confirm if they’ll work the same in this recipe.

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For my first post of 2026 I’m sorry to throw it back to Christmas but I did promise over on Instagram to do a Vienna round-up so true to my word here it is. I’ve kept some Christmas tips in should you be planning for the 2026 season but the bulk of this mini guide is applicable year-round.

For context, it was me and my partner’s first time there and with the city in full festive swing we delved right into all the Christmas markets, cafés and comforting warm meals we could squeeze into our four-day trip. Naturally, there were plenty of places on our list we didn’t get around to, all of which I’ll list below in case they’re useful for your own plans. I also strongly encourage you to check out Vienna resident Mitzi aka Compassionate Snob on Instagram (@compassionate_snob) and read the many helpful guides on her blog, including ones on vegan fine dining and where to find the best vegan Schnitzel in the city.

Also, if you have any vegan-friendly spots of your own please do share them in the comments - I would love to see this little bank of recommendations grow for all to reference.

So, without further ado let’s get into it…

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Café Central

I could not find a menu for Café Central online and given its reputation as a pretty traditional spot I had no expectations for a cake and was truly just hoping I could get some plant milk for my coffee. To my utter surprise they had not one but three (!!) entirely vegan cakes on offer. All three cakes stood proudly next to their dairy- and egg-heavy counterparts, equally as elaborate and considered. The three options were: a tonka bean mousse filled with a cassis core, a buckwheat nougat and plum slice and a patisserie take on a tiramisu titled the Vienna Macchiato. From pure excitement I ordered two - the tonka mousse and the Vienna Macchiato. Both were delicious but the latter took top spot.

Café Bel Étage (Hotel Sacher)

Nestled within the historic Sacher Hotel you’ll find the home of the original Sacher torte (hence the name) - which I’m sure you’ll have heard about the second you started researching Vienna. While you won’t find a vegan rendition of the Sacher torte there, at the Sacher’s Café Bel Étage (within the same building) you can tuck into a very nice vegan Speculoos Cheesecake studded with sweet cherries. This is especially handy if you’re visiting with non-vegan companions - they can order the famed Sacher torte and you can still get a delicious vegan dessert. Be warned, the queues are huge if you just try to show up on the day so I highly recommend booking well in advance.

Dorotheum Café

It was absolutely freezing during our visit and after braving the Christmas markets there were times when a café break became essential in order to regain feeling in our hands and feet. If you find yourself in this predicament or (or even if you don’t) I highly recommend a visit to the Dorotheum’s Café. It’s located on the top floor of the Dorotheum (one of the oldest and largest auction houses in the world) conveniently located just a short stroll from the Hofburg and the State Opera House. There are no queues, it’s nice and quiet and you can order a lovely vegan hot chocolate - which as it turns out had proven to be pretty elusive up until that point!

Figlmüller (Bäckerstraße)

We were keen to get a schnitzel booking in and promptly made a reservation at Figlmüller Wollzeile. Not only is it one of the most well known restaurants for schnitzel but also one of the few classic spots that does a vegan version. Unfortunately, I failed to realise they have different menus for their two branches meaning the vegan schnitzel is only available at Figlmüller Bäckerstraße. There are virtually no vegan options at the Wollzeile branch other than a salad so please learn from my mistake and make sure you make a booking at Bäckerstraße to avoid bitter disappointment.

Melker Stiftskeller

Set within a wine cellar dating back to the 17th century today Melker Stiftskeller is a lively tavern serving up traditional Austrian fare. The meat dishes are the main draw here but they have a very hearty and nicely executed vegan option too. It’s part of their seasonal menu so expect it to change throughout the year but in December the vegan main was a really nice oven-braised cabbage with a charred onion purée base, little chunks of pickled quince and a herb aioli. They have plenty of brews on offer but if you’re not a drinker like me then I’d recommend trying the grape juice.

Naschmarkt

Visiting on a weekday, Vienna’s famous Naschmarkt - an open air food market - was very quiet. There were several stores selling a variety of fresh produce and dry goods plus a few cafés and restaurants, but from strolling through the market a couple of times there wasn’t a great variety of vegan options on offer. We eventually settled for Dr Falafel, about halfway into the market, which seemed to be the most promising option available. The falafel was crisp and the pitta filled generously with salad and tahini sauce - all in all not a bad lunch spot if you’re visiting the market.

Plachutta Wollzeile

Another classic Viennese institution, Plachutta may be the home of ‘Tafelspitz’ (boiled beef) but you can also enjoy a rich, comforting meal and soak up the lively atmosphere as a vegan too. I ordered the mushrooms in herb cream sauce served with a side of parsley and olive oil potatoes. It seemed simple but the sauce was incredibly moreish and thoroughly enjoyable. There is also a beetroot tartare, which I didn’t try, that comes with vegan goats cheese and pine nuts, and a couple of homemade sorbets too if you want to finish on a refreshing sweet note.

Christmas Markets

One of our main reasons for the trip was to visit the Christmas markets and stock up on festive cheer ahead of the big day back home. We were determined to visit as many of the markets as we could during our short stay and managed to get to seven in total. I’m sure there will be some variance in stalls year-on-year but here’s a quick report of our findings from 2025 to help with your plans for this year. The Christkindlmarkt am Rathausplatz (Vienna’s main Christmas market) had a dedicated vegan hot dog stand (although it was not very good sadly) and the Altwiener Christkindlmarkt had a vegan chimney cake stall. Aside from those two, vegan food was limited to the odd item featured here and there across the stalls, like a mysterious roast bread roll with chives (also at the Alwiener Market). Vegan by default items like plain pretzels, potato spiral chips and fries were available everywhere but not very enticing compared to the non-vegan options. Sadly the plant-based and general food quality across all the markets wasn’t great so I would definitely not recommend relying on them for meals. Food aside my favourite markets were the Schönbrunn Palace market for the setting and the Altwiener Christkindlmarkt for Christmas souvenirs.

Julius Meinl

The Julius Meinl brand is ubiquitous all over the city and their two-storey flagship store sits proudly right at the top of the Graben – Vienna’s principal shopping street. On the ground floor you'll find the items they’re most best known for: coffees, chocolate, teas, confectionary etc. The quieter first floor houses a larger variety of store cupboard goods, alcohol, baked goods and more. There isn’t much of a vegan selection as such except for a few products but there were many interesting traditionally vegan food items. I was particularly keen on their selection of unique pickles, preserves, chocolates and coffees - all of which would make great food souvenirs.

For Next Time

As this was our first time in Vienna we kept our food choices very traditional but there are many, more varied, spots on my list for next time:

• TIAN - for Michelin-starred vegan set menus at a pioneering farm-to-table vegetarian restaurant

• TIAN Bistro am Spittelburg - for veg-forward dishes at TIAN’s more relaxed sister restaurant

• Restaurant JOLA - for inventive modern vegan fine dining

• Wrenkh (Restaurant & Cookery School) - for refined vegan options with a seasonal focus (and sublime interiors)

• MAKA Ramen - for their vegan miso shiitake ramen

• das suess'kind - for a wholesome casual lunch/brunch/coffee spot

• Pepper & Ginny - for considered bites in a fully vegan deli/shop

Shopping

I love shops that double-up as time warps, especially those keeping traditional craftsmanship alive and in Vienna you’ll find some beautiful examples of such cases. Stop by J. & L. Lobmeyr for one of the finest displays of glassware anywhere in the world. Founded in 1823, today their collection encompasses a mix of historic designs and contemporary collaborations with leading designers. For impossibly elegant menswear head to KNIZE, their cotton men’s shirts, pyjamas and socks are impeccable. If you’re in the market for splashing out on fine cotton bed and bath linen then Zur Schwäbischen Jungfrau is the place for you.

What To Do

Vienna has plenty of cultural activities to do year-round. On this trip in between the café and market hopping we managed to squeeze in visits to the Kunsthistoriches Museum and the Upper Belvedere. The former has a particularly good collection of Old Master paintings with key works by Bruegel, Dürer, Titian, Caravaggio, Hieronymous Bosch, Rembrandt, Vermeer and more, plus frescoes by Klimt adorning the main stairwell. Highlights at the Upper Belvedere are the works by Klimt and Schiele - the two artists most closely linked to Viennese art history. I thoroughly enjoyed both and would definitely say they’re must-visits if you’re after a culture fix. Sadly we weren’t able to coordinate a visit to the State Opera this time so that's definitely a priority for our next visit.

On our last evening in town we made a quick evening trip to the Prater - one of the world’s oldest amusement parks - to hop on the iconic giant ferris wheel. The distinctive train carriage-style cabins offer great views over the city and along with the retro feel and non-existent queues around the rest of the amusement park you could happily spend a couple of hours here living out your childhood dreams.

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From the practical to the totally indulgent, I’ve compiled an edit of vegan gifts guaranteed to bring a smile to your lucky recipient’s face this Christmas. By focusing on naturally vegan materials, and seeking out cruelty-free options for those that often aren’t, this edit covers a lot of ground so there is bound to be something for everyone. The suggestions are inherently personal but they are also designed to be varied enough that they inspire ideas beyond each specific item. So whether you’re buying for a vegan loved one or you’re interested in including a few more cruelty-free items in your basket his year I hope this list helps you see just how easy and beautiful vegan choices can be.

For delicious plant-based food gifts check out my separate guide here. Happy gifting!

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For chic hosts.

Striped Salad Servers, Heim Söhne at Pophams, £58

For those who cherish the little details.

Clover Matchbox Sleeve, Brass, Matilda Goad, £60

For those who appreciate textural contrast.

Stainless Steel Vase, ARKET, £59

For the avid baker.

Bistrot Solid Tart Servers, Ivory, Sabre, £50

For the traditionalists.

Burgundy Kaweco Classic Sport Fountain Pen, Choosing Keeping, £25

For the low-key magpie.

Sally Lacock Pod Toggle Silver Necklace, TOAST, £235

For those who prefer to be outdoors.

Terrang Boots, Tretorn, £100

For those in need of some pampering.

Bath for the Senses, Susanne Kaufmann, £60

For those who love a warm glow.

Japanese Hexagonal Rice Bran Wax Candles, ‘Rockaku’, Objects of Use, £20

For those who love a well-crafted accessory.

Japanese Kamawanu Bandana, Kiriko, Objects of Use, £26

For those who love a sultry drink.

Sophie Lou Jacobsen + Ghia Totem Set of Two Glasses, Net-a-Porter, £135

For the design-conscious cook.

Aluminum Pepper Mill, Service Projects, £105

For those who can’t choose between silver or gold.

Lucy Williams Knot Small Hoop Earrings, Missoma, £98

For the perennial traveller.

Metro Duffel, Monos, £255

For all fellow neat-freaks.

Metro Cosmetic Case, Monos, £100

For the (sock) power dresser.

The Bamboo Set Pinks and Greys, Pairs, £24

For those after transportive scents.

Mini 3 Sisters Candle Set, Flamingo Estate, £95

For the proud homebody.

Organic Cotton Sulis Bathrobe, Baina, £155

For those working on their work-life balance.

Anna + Nina All About Balance Mugs Set of 2, La Gent, £40

For the beauty queens.

The Winter 2025 Set, Merit, £87 (Currently on sale)

For the caffeine addicts.

Gia Cappuccino Cup and Saucer, Bettina Ceramica, £45

For budding little sous chefs.

Opinel Blue Le Petit Chef 3 Piece Children’s Knife Set, Sous Chef, £31.99

For kids with impeccable taste.

Blue Romero Kids Pyjamas, La Coqueta, £58

For aspiring artists.

Kitpas Rice Bran Wax Crayon 12 Colours, MORI, £15

For spoilt four-legged friends.

Umbra Dog Bathrobe, St. Pia, £75

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I have a few self-imposed rules when it comes to ‘veganising’ dishes. Firstly, I need to believe the end result will be objectively delicious - there really is no point recreating something for the sake of it unless I have faith that the final dish will be good, not a good imitation of the original but actually good in and of itself. Secondly, there shouldn’t be so many substitutions that you end up with an entirely different dish. The flavour will invariably be different, and I don’t even necessarily encourage chasing a ‘meaty’ taste, but I think the spirit of the original should be retained when attempting to ‘veganise’. And thirdly, I always ask myself ‘would starting from scratch be better than trying to recreate an existing dish?’. Often times I feel that vegan food can get really caught up in imitation rather than focusing on developing a new lexicon of its own. Don’t get me wrong, I do enjoy the occasional vegan sausage, patty, cheeze etc. but I don’t think we should get stuck chasing imitations and ignoring the incredible plethora of existing plant-based foods.

All this to say I personally ‘veganise’ very little but there are some dishes like a hearty bowl of ragù alla bolognese I genuinely feel work well within my highly subjective guidelines. I grew up in the UK so naturally I had plenty of what Brits call ‘spaghetti bolognese’. As a child it was one of my favourites although of course, with age and multiple trips to Italy I have since learnt that this British invention (read bastardisation by Italians) has actually very little to do with authentic ragù alla bolognese. Broadly speaking traditional recipes usually include a sauce made with minced meat, carrots, celery, onion, bay leaf, wine, a little milk and served with wide pastas like tagliatelle or fettuccine (not spaghetti).

Ragù alla bolognese is less acidic, richer and more comforting (I find) than the tomato-heavy British version I grew up with. And it’s the ragù I’ve styled by veganised version after. I figured if i’m going to imitate a dish then I should at least start at the source in order to retain as much of its essence as I can. With the help of some plants-based tweaks I think my version really holds its ground and pays genuine homage to the classic. Many will disagree and I apologise to whomever I will inevitably offend but I love this plant-based ragù and I truly believe it can win over even the staunchest of purists - I hope so anyway.

Daniela x

Recipe

Serves 4-6. Approx 45mins.

• 1 medium sized carrot (diced)

• 1 celery stalk (finely sliced)

• 1 small onion (diced)

• 2 garlic cloves (minced)

• 160g chestnut mushrooms (finely diced)

• 2 bay leaves

• 150ml vegan red wine

• 2 tbsp tomato puree

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 2 tsp vegan bouillon powder

• 1½ tbsp nutritional yeast

• 150ml soy milk (or other vegan milk)

• 50g soy protein mince (dry)

• Olive oil

• 500g tagliatelle (or fettuccine if you prefer)

• Salt & Pepper

• 5tbsp vegan parmesan (plus more for serving)

Method

1. In a heavy-based sauce pan, over a medium heat add a generous drizzle of olive oil. Add the carrots, celery, bay leaf, garlic and onion and cook until softened. Then add the mushrooms and sauté for a couple of minutes.

2. Add the wine and allow simmer for a couple of minutes until the alcohol has cooked off. Then stir in the tomato puree.

3. Add the bouillon powder, nutritional yeast, soy sauce, a splash of the milk and 150ml of water and bring back to a simmer.

4. Season with salt and pepper and cook uncovered over low-medium for 20-30 mins until the veg are tender. Add the rest of the milk little by little as it cooks, giving everything an occasional stir.

5. While the sauce cooks, rehydrate your mince by adding it to a bowl and covering with boiling water. Follow the packet instructions and make sure to squeeze out the excess water well. Once the pasta sauce is nice and thick add the soy mince and stir until evenly coated. Cook for a further 10 minutes with the lid on.

6. Cook your pasta in salted water as per the packet instructions. Once ready strain, reserving some of the pasta water, and add the pasta to the sauce pan. Turn the heat off, add the vegan parmesan and a little pasta water and stir well until the pasta is well coated. Add a little more pasta water if it’s too dry but don’t add too much as the sauce shouldn’t be too wet.

7. Dish out onto plates and top with more parmesan. Enjoy!

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I love Christmas – always have. I’m not religious, despite being raised (loosely) Catholic, but I get completely enveloped in all of the little traditions leading up to the big day - the music, the markets, decorating the tree etc etc. Of course, being me, a huge part of the anticipation revolves around the food…Swaying between comforting and outright opulent, I love the food and drink at this time of year, and being vegan hasn’t diminished that excitement at all. For me the most quintessential Christmas flavours were never turkey or pigs in blankets but rather the warm spices, fragrant citrus, rich chocolate and the many great baked goods - all of which I am still able to thoroughly enjoy.

If, like me, you’re also craving plant-based indulgence this Christmas, or you’re shopping for someone who is, then don’t fret because I have a list full of delectable vegan-friendly goodies. It’s essentially a compilation of all the treats I will be feasting on myself - if you’d like to join in the fun then keep reading…

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For those who delight in a luxurious hamper (from Fortnum’s obviously).

The Yuletide Hamper, Vegan, Fortnum & Mason, £150

For those praying to see this packaging under the tree this year (IYKYK).

London Chocolate, Khourys, £12

For those who embrace the countdown enthusiastically.

Organic Dark Chocolate Advent Calendar, Montezuma’s, £13

For the cheese-heads among us.

Ultimate Vegan Christmas Bundle, Saporia, £65

For when you want to revisit a festive classic.

Black Lines Drinks Oatnog, DELLI, £18

For all the pantry-proud folks.

The Cook’s Treats Gift Hamper (Vegan), Sous Chef, £85

For dessert with continental flair.

Christmas Vegan Sachertorte, Kipferl, £44.50

For when you want to switch things up a bit.

Turkish Delight vegan selection 454g, Selfridges, £24.99

For those who like their chocolate with a side of nostalgia.

Audrey’s Santa - Dark Chocolate, Audrey’s, £14.95

For a touch of luxury at the breakfast table.

Chestnut Cream, Ladurée, £16

For when the theme is sophisticated candy.

Dark Chocolate Half Dipped Orange Slices, Rococo Chocolate, £8.50 (On sale)

For those who like to delude themselves into thinking they’ll just have one.

Limited Edition Crispy Hazelnut Praline Truffles 500g, Rhythm 108, £21.90

For those who deserve buttery pastry worthy of a Great Taste Award.

12 Vegan Mince Piese, Konditor, £24

For those who love a seasonal special from a trusted favourite.

Booja Booja Winter Special Hazelnut Crunch & Cherry Bakewell Eight Truffle Pack, Planet Organic, £7.50

For Christmas with an Italian touch.

Vegan Panettone, Vergani, 750g, Lina Stores, £25.95

For the control freaks who like to choose their cocoa percentage.

Vegan Hot Chocolate Flakes, Knoops, from £13.50

For those who want to spice up their hot drink rotation.

Diaspora Co. Golden Milk, Ocado, £10

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P.S I’ll be posting more festive finds on Instagram (@canastavegan) so make sure to follow along there too x

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In Hong Kong you’ll find traditional cafés, called cha chaan tengs, dotted all across the city. These are affordable, casual eateries serving local favourites, akin to the ‘greasy spoons’ you might find in the UK. Menus consist of sweet and savoury dishes that blend local and Western flavours, with staples such as macaroni soup, pork chop rice, pineapple buns and egg tarts. Sadly for me they aren’t the most vegan-friendly of places since there’s a heavy emphasis on meat and dairy. I did however manage to source a vegan ‘not egg tart’ from MAYA x The Cakery so if you’re in town you can head there for that.

As you might have gathered by now I have a terrible sweet tooth so aside from the compulsory egg tart there was one other dessert I was particularly keen to try: Hong Kong French toast. As with western French toast recipes this one also relies on an eggy coating to achieve that perfectly tender golden coating. Traditionally the Hong Kong version consists of milk bread layered with peanut butter then dipped into an egg mixture before being deep-fried until golden. To serve it is topped with a knob of butter and either golden syrup or condensed milk (or both if you fancy). The result: a richer, more decadent version of eggy bread. Sadly I couldn’t find a vegan version during my stay - if anyone knows of any please do let me know in the comments below!

Once back home I couldn’t get it out of my head so of course I did the only logical thing and decided to make my own vegan version. If there’s one thing being vegan has taught me over the years it’s that sometimes you just have to DIY it…My version may not be traditional, I have never actually tried one after all so I can’t attest to how faithful a rendition my plant-based recipe is, but I think the essence of it still rings true. In any case it was delicious and I enjoyed it very much - I hope you do too.

Daniela x

P.s The ideal partner to this dish is Hong Kong Milk Tea (black tea with a mix of evaporated and condensed milk). You can make your own (although to make the real deal is much harder than it seems - believe me) or if you’re in the UK Cha Dong make authentic pre-mixed vegan milk teas, check them out here.

The Recipe

Makes 2

• 6 slices of thick white bread

• 7-8 tbsp smooth peanut butter (approx)

• 3 tbsp cornflour

• 2 tsp custard powder

• 3 ½ tsp icing sugar

• 50g plain flour

• 180ml soy milk (or other plant milk)

• vegetable oil (for frying)

• 2 knobs of vegan butter (for serving)

• vegan condensed milk (for serving, I used the coconut based one from Nature’s Charm)

Method

1. Spread the peanut butter evenly over two slices of bread, layer them on top of each other and top with a plain third slice. Trim off the crusts and repeat with the remaining three slices.

2. In a shallow dish whisk together the cornflour, custard powder, flour (sifted), sugar and a little milk. Only use just enough milk to form a smooth paste. Once smooth add the remaining milk.

3. Working quickly, briefly dip each side of the bread until lightly and evenly coated in the milk mix and set aside.

4. Fill a deep frying pan or wide saucepan with about an inch of oil and put it on medium/high heat until it’s 180°C. It’s best to use a thermometer to ensure a nice even temperature as you fry.

5. Gently place your toast into the oil and fry each side for a minute or so until golden all over. Repeat with the second toast. Once cooked, place the toasts on a plate lined with kitchen towel to drain the excess oil.

6. To serve top with a knob of butter and drizzle with condensed milk (or golden syrup if you prefer). Best eaten immediately - enjoy!

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If you’ve been following along on Instagram you’ll know I recently travelled to Hong Kong for the first time. It’s a destination that has been on my bucket list for the longest time and while I was excited to see Victoria Harbour, the Tian Tian Buddha and the world-famous skyline of towering skyscrapers it was the food above all I was most excited about! I’m a huge fan of all Chinese cuisines but naturally, growing up in the UK has given me a particular soft spot for the delicacies of Hong Kong. As a former British colony, Hong Kong has a particularly strong link to the UK, especially here in London where there is a large diasporic community.

Keen to try as much as I could, I did worry my veganism could hold me back but actually I found it did the complete opposite. In Hong Kong I realised how varied and diverse plant-based food can be, beyond the limited euro-centric perspective. My veganism didn’t hold me back at all, it actually pushed me to try things I had never come across before. I tried new types of mushrooms (like Bamboo Pith!), discovered new ways of cooking familiar vegetables, ate new forms and styles of tofu and learnt so much with each meal. This trip was definitely one of the most mind-altering experiences in so far as my understanding of plant-based food is concerned. It just goes to show how much we can learn from cultures from around the world that have deep rooted traditions in plant-based eating.

I could have stayed here for months and still had so much to eat through so this is by no means an exhaustive list but rather a group of suggestions of places I personally enjoyed. Each offered a different insight into Hong Kong culture (I think anyway) and helped me get a little sense of traditional, historical and contemporary plant-based eating in Hong Kong. I hope you find it helpful.

MAYA x The Cakery, Central

This place will immediately instil in you a feeling of jealousy for Hong Kong residents. Located in the corner of the ifc shopping mall, this tiny vegan bakery displays row upon row of plant-based goodies, with options ranging from croissants to large occasion cakes. I came here for the ‘not egg tart’, a vegan take on the traditional Hong Kong style egg tarts (it was so good!) and had to claw myself away before I ordered everything else.

Maxim’s, Central

Inconspicuously located inside the City Hall building, Maxim’s is a Hong Kong classic. It’s a traditional dim sum restaurant where the ceiling is covered in chandeliers, tables are full of lively groups and steaming dim sum trolleys whizz around with tasty offerings. The system is simple: each trolley has a different selection of dishes and you pick what you want as they circulate. Most are meat and shellfish heavy but I managed to hail down some delightful baskets of clear mushroom dumplings and fluffy sesame steamed buns.

Yat Tung Heen, Jordan

If anyone ever again proclaims vegan food is boring I will be presenting Yat Tung Heen as damning evidence of the contrary. This one-Michelin starred restaurant delivered flavours and textures so unfamiliar to my Western/London-centric view of plant-based eating that I left feeling like I had a whole world to discover. My first course was their Double Boiled Cabbage Soup with Yellow Fungus, Bamboo Pith and Black Mushroom. All I can say is, if you have never tried Bamboo Pith please seek it out and try it (also Google it because it’s an extraordinary looking thing). The vegan options here were extensive including a range of dishes featuring ‘Omnipork’, a pork meat-alternative product – for my main I ordered the Deep-fried OmniPork-stuffed Morel Mushroom and Pomelo Peel, topped with Black Pepper Sauce. All delicious but I was particularly taken by the Pomelo peel because I had no idea braising it would transform its spongey citrus skin into a soft squash-like texture! Finished off with a perfectly refreshing dessert: chilled mango glutinous rolls.

Temple Eateries

In Hong Kong many Buddhist temples, especially larger ones often have restaurants or canteens on-site that serve food. These are all vegetarian and actually largely vegan aside from a few exceptions (e.g. some desserts). After visiting the Tian Tian Buddha I headed to the nearby Po Lin Monastery for their set lunch, which included soup, two vegetable dishes, spring rolls, a side of rice and syrupy tofu skin for dessert. I would also recommend checking out the Chi Lin Restaurant for traditional Buddhist cuisine (sadly I didn’t have time to eat there myself). It’s located inside the Nan Lian Garden, which is so peaceful and makes a beautiful trip combined with the adjacent Chi Lin Nunnery complex.

Lau Haa Hot Pot, Causeway Bay

I’m a big fan of hot pot so when visiting Hong Kong it was always going to be a must. It’s fun, interactive and inherently customisable so ideal for vegan diets. We opted for Lau Haa Hot Pot in Causeway Bay and it did not disappoint. Friendly staff, cool retro aesthetic and plenty of plant-based options. There were a few vegetable based broths on offer and a good range of vegetables and tofu items to choose from for dipping.

Yardbird, Sheung Wan

This name kept popping up in my research and although it is a chicken-focused restaurant they did have quite a lot of vegetable dishes on offer, catering for both myself and my non-vegan partner. Fashioned as a ‘modern izakaya’ this one-Michelin starred restaurant proves very popular with locals and tourists so definitely book ahead. It’s loud (a tad too loud for me) and buzzy but the food is good. Sesame cucumber salad, korean style fried cauliflower (so good), mushroom rice - all very satisfying.

Above & Beyond, Tsim Sha Tsui

We stayed at Hotel ICON and Above & Beyond is their restaurant located on the 28th floor with stunning views over the harbour. As with many of the restaurants in Hong Kong, most of the vegetarian dishes on the menu are actually vegan. Here I opted for a vegan hot & sour soup followed by sweet and sour lion’s mane and a side of rice. Both of these are classics I rarely see veganised back in London and so it was such a treat to get to try plant-based versions from a Michelin-guide restaurant no less. The service was great, the view was incredible, the food top-tier and it was really reasonably priced for the quality - highly recommend.

Duddell’s, Central

Dim sum is definitely one of the world’s greatest food traditions. Steaming baskets and small plates of delicious morsels including my favourite of all: dumplings (all kinds). Dim sum is a big deal in Hong Kong and after heading to Maxim’s for a traditional take we then went to Duddell’s for their Michelin-starred, bottomless brunch interpretation. You start by picking a free-flowing drinks package (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) and then order as many dishes as you like via their tick-box paper forms. They have a full vegetarian menu, the majority of which is also vegan, including cabbage dumplings, veggie steamed buns, sweet corn soup, sautéed vegetables, fried rice and a couple of traditional desserts too.

Afternoon Tea at The Peninsula, Tsim Sha Tsui

The Peninsula is one of Hong Kong’s most iconic hotels and their afternoon tea is one of the best in town. Introduced during British colonial rule, afternoon tea as a tradition is now very much ingrained in Hong Kong culture and one that’s developed into a hybrid of both British and local influences. I wasn’t hopeful initially that they would be able to accommodate my vegan requirements but to my surprise they happily confirmed they actually had a fully-plant based version. It came complete with scones, a selection of savoury sandwiches and bites, and a tray of whimsical desserts. Everything was on par with the non-vegan counterpart and so nicely thought out that there was no feeling of missing out at all.

The Chinnery, Central

On our last day we decided to have our final proper meal at The Chinnery, located inside the Mandarin Oriental hotel. It’s a very interesting restaurant/bar, established in 1963, serving British-Indian food alongside an extensive selection of whiskey. With the absence of windows it really feels like you’re suddenly in Mayfair: white tablecloths, wood panelling, whiskey, fish and chips coming out of the kitchen, and yet you’re not, you’re in the middle of central Hong Kong. You step into what feels like a British colonial food outpost but then proceed to eat pani puri and aloo gobi (flavours from India, another former British colony). The food was great, the setting was beautiful and it was definitely a multi-layered dining experience I’ll remember for a long time.

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Every Autumn pumpkin spice takes over London. Truth be told I came to hate it, seeing seasonal specials plastered across coffee shops and orange hued lattes towering with mountains of cream, syrups and other such embellishments. I usually take my coffee black, no sugar or at my most adventurous I’ll have a cappuccino, so you can understand why I might squirm at the idea of a pumpkin spiced latte. Of course, this makes no sense since I love desserts and all things sweet but for some reason this ‘assault’ on coffee really gets to me.

I may never be a convert to the sweet seasonal drinks but I am a devout loyalist to any great dessert and this pumpkin and speculoos tart is just that. It’s a tart but there is no pastry or baking involved meaning it’s completely stress-free, super easy and actually really fun to make. Biscoff biscuits grant the tart the wonderful speculoos flavour of warming spices while the silky smooth filling is rich with sweet pumpkin goodness. It’s great without but for extra dinner table showmanship the bruléed top give this dessert a touch of glam. The blowtorch adds a little nod to cosy fireplaces and bonfires and before serving you get the oh so satisfying pleasure of cracking the glossy top with the back of a spoon.

Enjoy!

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The Recipe

Makes 1 x 25cm tart (3.5cm depth). Serves 6

For the Speculoos Base

• 310g speculoos biscuits (I used Biscoff as it’s the easiest to get a hold of)

• 70g vegan butter

For the Pumpkin Filling

• 425g (1 can) pumpkin puree (canned or you can make your own if you fancy)

• 40g cornflour

• 90g caster sugar

• 70g soft dark brown sugar

• 265g soy milk (or other vegan milk)

• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)

• 1/2 tsp ground ginger (optional)

• 1/8 tsp nutmeg (optional)

• 30g vegan butter

For the Bruléed Top (optional)

• 50g demerara sugar (about 4-5 tbsp)

For the Whipped Cream (optional)

• 125ml vegan double cream

• 1 tbsp icing sugar

The Method

1. To make the tart base blitz the biscuits with the butter in a food processor until it’s an even, fine sandy texture. Transfer to the tart case and press firmly into the base and the fluted edges until it’s nice and compact. Refrigerate for at least 30 mins.

2. To make the filling add the pumpkin puree, 165ml of the milk, caster sugar, brown sugar and spices (if using) to a saucepan and warm through over a low medium heat. In a small bowl make a slurry with the cornflour and the remaining milk, once completely smooth add it to the pan. Whisk for about 5-8 mins until the mixture thickens and creates big bubbles when left to stand. Remove from the heat and whisk in the butter until completely smooth. Quickly pour the mixture into the chilled base and even out the filling with a spatula. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours but preferably overnight.

3. For the whipped cream simply whisk the cream with the icing sugar using an electric whisk until thick and voluminous.

4. When you’re ready to serve sprinkle the demerara sugar evenly over the tart in 2/3 batches and use a blowtorch to brulée the sugar. Work quickly and repeat until the sugar is finished and you have a shiny hard coating. Crack the sugar top with the back of a spoon so it’s easier to slice and serve immediately (the sugar with turn soft and melt into the tart if left too long).

5. Dollop a spoon of cream on the side and sprinkle some extra cinnamon on top if you fancy – enjoy!

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So much of my memory is tightly wound up with my sense of taste. For as long as I can remember, eating has always had an experiential gravity to it that has anchored so much of my life. Food has the magical ability to transport you through time and place in a way that’s so deeply sensory and personal - it’s what I love most about it and the reason why nostalgic impulses often guide the way I eat. This week two seemingly disparate sentimental cravings came together to create a dessert I know I’ll turn to for many years to come.

The first craving was cereal milk, specifically from cornflakes. Since I was a child I’ve always hated the taste of cow’s milk (this makes sense now!) but I was happy to have it in cereal where it would be transformed into something much more palatable. With cornflakes I loved how it turned a pale yellow and acquired that characteristic mellow malted corn flavour as it brewed. Of course, now I know you don’t need the cow’s milk at all, just a creamy base.

The second taste I craved was much punchier, the lip-smacking flavour bombs that are Amarena cherries. These little ruby spheres are so addictive I get intense periodic reminders from my brain when I haven’t had any for a while. They’re not very common here in the UK so before I was vegan I would usually satiate this craving while on holiday in Italy. My go-to gelateria order was always pistachio and Amarena cherry cream swirl. These syrupy delights are so punchy that a creamy mellow partner is exactly what they call for - hello cereal milk!

Since both cravings were brewing at the same time they came together organically. For body I decided to capture the sweet cereal milk in the form of a creamy set custard then topping with the a few tart Amarena cherries and a drizzle of their syrup - just a little or they’ll overwhelm the delicate custard. The result: heavenly bliss…

The Recipe

Makes 4 coupes

• 700ml soy milk (other plant milks are fine but I find soy works best)

• 80g cornflakes

• 40g cornflour

• 15g custard powder

• 25g vegan butter

• 140g sugar

• Amarena cherries (3-4 cherries per serving is plenty)

Method

1. Pre-heat your oven to 160c fan (180c). Spread the cornflakes out onto a shallow tray and bake for 15 mins until a deeper golden hue.

2. Place the toasted cornflakes into a medium sized bowl and top with the milk. Mix well and leave undisturbed to infuse for 20 minutes.

3. Using a fine-mesh sieve or a muslin cloth strain the cereal mix and discard the cornflake solids. You should have about 500ml of cereal milk.

4. In a saucepan add the cornflour and custard powder and about 80 ml of the cereal milk. Whisk to create a slurry (a smooth lump-free mix).

5. Add the remaining milk and sugar and heat over a low-medium heat. Whisk continuously as you heat up the milk to ensure no lumps form, especially at the bottom of the pan. Once the milk starts to steam keep a close eye on it and keep whisking as it thickens.

6. Once it’s the consistency of a thick creme anglaise take it off the heat and add the butter. Whisk thoroughly until it’s nice and smooth.

7. Quickly pour the mixture into your ramekins/coupes and gently tap them to level out the mix.

8. Leave to set in the fridge for at least 2 hours.

9. To serve remove from the fridge an hour before serving to allow it to soften and then top with the Amarena cherries and a little drizzle of their syrup.

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Finding a good vegan coat is challenging. This time last year I remember trawling the internet, clicking into hundreds of fabric composition tabs only to see the words: wool, agora, merino, down, feathers, cashmere etc. etc. When searching for synthetic alternatives the options were often equally as deflating, with so many models made from virgin polyester, PU and other polluting plastic fibres. Cotton, which I usually rely on for knitwear, is fairly limited in its insulating abilities and so I knew needed to look elsewhere for vegan outerwear that was actually able to withstand bleak British winters.

Last year, after weeks of searching, I eventually found a brilliant winter coat in the form of a boxy puffer jacket from Napapijri. I needed something robust and practical to get me through frosty morning walks with my dog and now I don’t know how on earth I survived without it. It’s so warm yet incredibly light, making freezing park trips a little less dreadful - but by far the best thing about it is that in all it’s puffy layers it doesn’t contain a single bird feather! That exact model is no longer available but after a thorough re-trawl this year I’m pleased to report there are plenty of other incredible styles from them, and many other great brands, currently on the market.

In the spirit of solidarity I decided I would save you the trouble of finding them yourself and compiled an edit of fabulous vegan coats to keep you cosy this autumn and winter. The list is diverse, including everything from trusty puffers to tailored car coats, but the one thing they all have in common is that none compromise on style. I love wearing garments that aren’t a product of animal cruelty but of course we all want to look good too – all of these coats deliver on both fronts.

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Napapijri

Best for: Ultra warm recycled polyester puffers in a wide array of flattering colours, lengths, patterns and silhouettes. Their range includes models for women, men and children.

Favourites: Glane Check Puffer Jacket (Women’s, £310), Biez Modular Puffer Jacket (Men’s, £310), Ega Long Puffer Jacket (Women’s, £255)

Albaray

Best for: A chic oversized coat with a boucle-effect, perfect for layering chunky knits under. Equally beautiful dressed up or down and made from 100% recycled polyester.

Favourites: Chocolate Curly Double Breasted Coat, £175

GANNI

Best for: An injection of cruelty-free fun into your wardrobe! Their bold statement coats prove vegan living doesn’t have to be boring.

Favourites: Ripstop Quilt Coat, £355, Mary’s Rose Pink Alternative Fur Coat, £775, Black Shiny Quilt Midi Jacket, £375, Green Quilt Midi Jacket, £375, Dark Grey Tri-layer Parker Coat, £645

COS

Best for: Minimal classics from a high-street favourite. A little light on their own but perfect for sophisticated layering.

Favourites: Dark Brown Longline Teddy Coat, £169, Ribbed-collar Quilted Coat, £155, Classic Cotton Car Coat, £199 (with some good under-layers!)

Tretorn

Best for: Utilitarian outwear with Scandinavian flair. This Swedish cult-favourite has vegan-friendly styles for men, women and children, as well as great collabs including their current one with Kassl Editions.

Favourites: Halo Insulated Wrap Coat (Women’s, £340), Tretorn X Kassl Editions Puffer Jacket (Women’s, £360), Grid Insulated Jacket (Men’s, £330)

Nobody’s Child

Best for: Feminine silhouettes with pretty patterns, fabrics and details. Not the warmest options but perfect for stylish layering.

Favourites: Beige Check Frill Quilter Jacket, £129, Black Velvet Quilted Collared Jacket, £135, Brown Long Borg Duffle Coat, £155

Samsøe Samsøe

Best for: Practical coats with a minimal Scandi feel. Cosy and stylish models for men and women, made from 100% recycled polyester and other innovative synthetic materials like PrimaLoft® ThermoPlume®.

Favourites: Sajosh Puffer Jacket, £500, Sadonna Jacket, £200, Saseri Puffer Coat, £320

Barbour X FARM Rio

Best for: Head-turning prints with extravagant silhouettes from an Anglo-Brazilian collaboration.

Favourites: Ana-Clara Quilted Jacket, £263.20 (On sale, via Liberty), Cami Quilted Jacket, £429, Luisa Quilted Jacket, £263.20 (On Sale, via Liberty)

Ba&sh

Best for: Cosy, relaxed outerwear from an effortlessly chic Parisian brand.

Favourites: Millie Coat, £365, Maury Short Coat, £315, Groove Waterproof Coat, £335

Reformation

Best for: Modern classics for a polished but soft aesthetic. Deadstock fabrics are transformed into gorgeous elevated pieces worth treasuring.

Favourites: Palmer Jacket, £348, Devin Faux Fur Coat, £348

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A couple of weeks ago I came down with a bug - shivers, headache, muscle soreness, the lot. I have no clue where it came from but can only assume it coincided with the end of the summer holidays and the return to school and work. This time of year is prime time for colds and viruses and as we head further into autumn and winter it’s wise to be prepared for more to come. While I was ill I didn’t have much of an appetite but there was one thing my body called for: broth. I don’t know if this is the body’s way of telling us what it needs or if there is just so much nostalgia wrapped up in a bowl of broth that it’s my instinctive response. Of course, I’m not suggesting soup can cure illnesses but it sure does feel like it can when you’re worse for wear.

Growing up my mum would always prepare a big pot of chicken soup anytime I felt unwell. I would eat it little by little until the pot was empty and I was back to normal again. Even when my dog was very ill one time and refused all other food and water, chicken soup was the only thing he would eat. Of course nostalgia plays a part but it’s not all that, science does agree soup doesn’t cure diseases but it can alleviate symptoms. The steam from the soup can help with congestion, the broth provides essential hydration and the ingredients gently nourish you when energy reserves are low. Before I was vegan, chicken soup may have been my go-to but now that I no longer eat meat I’m still able to enjoy the healing properties of a comforting bowl of soup thanks to my vegan ‘get well soon’ soup.

It’s not an imitation, no fake chicken here, but it is my ideal alternative to the chicken soup I grew up with. It’s light and broth-y, it’s nutritious, it’s simple to make, and above all it’s packed full of gentle flavour. The onion, celery, carrots and vegan bouillon powder provide a classic base and the fregola is small enough to eat easily but retains a satisfying bouncy chew. To replace the chicken I didn’t want an imitation, I wanted something altogether different but equally as gentle and soothing, for me that combination is fennel, borlotti beans and lemon. The fennel once cooked only retains a subtle aniseed flavour that pairs beautifully with the gentle earthiness of the soft borlotti beans - not too many so it’s still light but enough to provide added nutrition. I then finish everything off with a generous drizzle of olive oil, and a good squeeze of lemon juice and zest for a citrusy vitamin c lift. Wrap up warm and let the this soup hug you from within until you feel human again.

‘Get Well Soon’ Soup Recipe

Serves 4

• 3 shallots (cut in half)

• 3 small-medium fennel bulbs (or 2 large, bulb cut into wedges, woody root plate discarded, keep the stalks for the broth and fennel fronds for topping)

• 1 large carrot (diced)

• 2 celery stalks (whole or halved)

• 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)

• 1 tbsp vegan bouillon powder

• 3 dry bay leaves

• 230g borlotti beans (approx. 1 drained can)

• 220g fregola (or other small pasta shape)

• 2l water/ low-sodium vegetable stock

• 2/3 lemons (juice and zest, depending on how sharp you want it)

• salt & pepper to taste

1. In a large pot heat the olive oil over medium heat, once hot add the fennel bulbs and the shallots to brown for a couple of minutes. Turn to get them golden all over.

2. Add the carrots, celery and fennel stalks and sauté for a couple of minutes.

3. Add the water/stock, bay leaves, bouillon powder and bring to the boil then simmer for 15 minutes.

4. Discard the celery and fennel stalks, shallots and bay leaves.

5. Add the fregola and cook for another 10 minutes, or until al dente. 5 mins before the fregola is done add the beans.

6. Season if needed then turn off the heat and serve. Top the soup bowls with a generous squeeze of lemon juice, lemon zest, a drizzle of olive oil and the fennel fronds.

Note: If you happen to detest fennel’s aniseed flavour then you could substitute it for another vegetable – leeks would work well.

So why another banana bread recipe you say? I know it seems there is an infinite amount of banana bread recipes out there but I think therein lies the problem. It’s so ubiquitous that actually there are so many bad recipes clouding the path to truly great banana bread. Having sampled only a few truly excellent examples in my time I knew how good it could be yet it so often failed to hit the mark, even at cafés and bakeries. Often too dense, claggy, flour-y, lacking in banana flavour, stale…

IMHO great banana bread should be pillowy soft, moist and rich with banana flavour, almost caramel in tone but not overly sweet. After much trial and error here’s my recipe for how to achieve just that. If you have enough willpower I highly recommend baking it the night before, allow it to cool fully then wrap in cling film or place in an airtight container overnight. The texture will improve tenfold the following day if you have a little patience. If that requires too much restraint, it’s still great on the day.

The Perfect Banana Bread Recipe

• 250g plain flour

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

• 2 tsp baking powder

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 1/4 tsp sea salt

• 3 medium overripe bananas (mashed)

• 190g soft dark brown sugar (important!)

• 65ml plant milk (I use soy)

• 80g neutral oil (I use vegetable oil, coconut oil or other neutral seed oil works fine)

• Handful of chopped walnuts and/or chopped dark chocolate (optional)

Method:

1. Pre-heat your oven to 175c fan (165c) and line and grease a loaf tin (standard 8-inch)

2. In a large bowl add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt and whisk to get rid of any clumps

3. In a separate medium bowl add the mashed bananas, oil, milk and sugar. Whisk through briefly to combine and remove any large sugar lumps.

4. Add the wet mix to the dry mix and whisk until combined and smooth. It’s fine if you still have a few small sugar clumps (these will actually make little gooey bits in the cake which are so tasty)

5. Pour the mix into the loaf tin and bake for approximately 35-45 mins until a knife comes out clean.

6. Once done, place on a cooling rack and leave to cool completely in the tin.

7. It’s ready to eat once cool but I highly recommend taking it out of the tin, wrapping it up in cling film or placing in an airtight container overnight. The crumb texture will become much softer the following day. Enjoy!

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Welcome to the fourth instalment in my series of London bakery guides! Today it’s all about the goodies baked south of the river, including spots from Bermondsey all the way down to Crystal Palace. Admittedly I am much less familiar with this part of London so please forgive me I’ve left out any of your favourites and do let me know in the comments! You can find all the other London bakery guides (Central, West & East) plus other London related posts here.

When I started this series I knew I had a fair few bakeries to call upon but now that we’re onto the penultimate guide I’m truly amazed by just how extensive the reach and variety of plant-based baking is across the capital. We’ve come so far from the days of sad, stale banana cakes being the only option. For the last instalment (North London) I will definitely be pulling everything together for you in a handy Google map so you can confidently travel across town knowing you are never far from a delicious baked treat. Stay tuned for that but now without further ado let’s head to South London…

Bunhead Bakery, Herne Hill

First up on the list has to be Bunhead Bakery! Founder Sara Assad-Mannings started out delivering buns from her home during the pandemic before opening the bricks-and-mortar space last year with her friend and business partner Georgia Wickremeratne. The two now run one of London’s most popular bakeries, selling mostly buns but also focaccia, cakes and other baked goods. They always have multiple vegan options on offer, promising to keep almost half of their menu plant-based, my only word of advice: go early because queues are a mainstay and they usually sell out well before the end of the day. Everything they make is influenced by the beautiful flavours of Sara’s Palestinian heritage so you know you’re in for something special. They also regularly fundraise for Palestine so go and eat some incredible bakes and show your support 🍉

145 Dulwich Rd, London SE24 0NG

Chatsworth Bakehouse, Crystal Palace

Another South London favourite, Chatsworth Bakehouse, located just down the road from Crystal Palace station, has two spaces along the same road – their original tiny bakery and a new bigger space. They make some of the best bakes in town and although they sadly only usually have one vegan sweet treat on offer (salted chocolate brownie) they do make some incredible vegan sandwiches. Expect excellent bread packed with layer upon layer of plant-based goodness.

116 Anerley Rd (New larger bakery) & 120a Anerley Rd (Original tiny bakery), London SE19 2AN

Aries Bakehouse, Brixton

If you’re around Brixton and in dire need of a flaky vegan pastry then make a beeline for Aries Bakehouse. Opened in 2019 by longtime Brixton resident, Jackie McKinson, in the same space that belonged to her mother’s shop since the 80s, Aries Bakehouse is a local institution deeply embedded in the fabric of its community. They produce excellent breads and cater generously to vegan diets in the form of delicious croissants, pains au chocolat and other delectable treats. Expect queues and head over early to avoid disappointment!

99 Acre Ln, Brixton Hill, London SW2 5TU

Kegarmo, Maltby Street Market

Located just south of the river you’ll find Kegarmo’s stall tucked inside Maltby Street Market. This all-vegan bakery stall may be small but what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in selection. They have everything from cakes and tarts to brownies, buns, cheesecakes, cookies and more. They’re currently raising funds for a bakery and I hope for all our sakes to see it up and running very soon because we always need more fully vegan spaces. Go and enjoy some of their incredible treats and help make the dream a reality!

Maltby Street Market, 46 Maltby St, London SE1 3PA

TOAD Bakery, Camberwell

Often cited amongst the best bakeries across the capital, and in fact the country, TOAD is lauded for good reason. Their bakes are not only technically impressive but also supremely delicious thanks their beautiful flavour combinations. While they don’t have a wealth of vegan options on offer, they do usually have some very good vegan cookies and a changing vegan sandwich option (pictured above: walnut and pumpkin seed pesto, capers, olives and celery, tomato sauce, pickled peppers). As with many of the other spots on this list, TOAD is hugely popular and with the absence of choice here you definitely want to try your luck early in the day before they sell out.

44 Peckham Rd, London SE5 8PX

Milk Run, Tooting

Located between Balham and Tooting you have Milk Run, another relatively new addition to London bakery' scene. They already have a loyal following among locals and fellow bakery enthusiasts thanks to their beautifully made breads and pastries. Again, it’s not the place to expect an abundance of choice but they do sometimes have a very special vegan option on the counter. Over the summer they had a cardamom brioche number (pictured above) filled with a berry compote and topped with a crumble crust – if that’s the type of single vegan option they have then I’ll happily travel across London for it. Of course we still want more choice so you’ll be happy to know they are working hard on vegan recipe testing and have promised to bring more options to their counter soon. One to keep an eye on for sure!

16-18 Ritherdon Rd, London SW17 8QD

Bonus: Café Mondo, Camberwell

Not exactly a bakery but I’m including it here because they make excellent vegan sandwiches with phenomenal bread so I feel like they need a spot in this guide. Their menu changes often but they always have a couple of vegan sandwiches available, with creative fillings as diverse as harissa aubergines, crispy potato latkes, tempeh and fried tomatoes. Café Mondo’s sandwiches are anything but boring and their vegan ones are no exception. They’re open for both lunch (Weds-Sun) and dinner (Thurs-Sun) and also have an ongoing residency at the Grove House Tavern pub a ten minute walk away – the perfect cosy venue for a vegan sando during the autumn and winter months.

42 Peckham Rd, London SE5 8PX