I decided to switch to a vegetarian diet over a year ago. There were a number of reasons why I decided to make the change, but since making the switch I haven’t looked back! I haven’t quite got as far as switching to vegan, however with vegan options becoming more readily available and accessible, it’s always an option!
As a family, Sharon and T still eat meat on occasion, but as I do the majority of the evening meals they will often eat vegetarian as well. Every now and then, though, they may decide to cook some meat with their meal, and that’s fine. It’s important to me that they don’t feel obliged to copy me in regards to what food they eat.
One of the exciting things about a change in lifestyle – particularly if it involves a change of diet – is experimenting with new food options!
Living in Brighton, where food options are endless, it’s super easy to find somewhere that caters to your needs. Whether you’re vegetarian or simply dairy-free there’s something for everyone. If you’re interested in trying out some new vegetarian and vegan Brighton food, here are some of our favourite vegetarian and vegan places to eat around the city.
For your information, most of the vegetarian places listed below have vegan options on offer as well, but because they also use some animal-based products, such as milk and eggs, I have kept them within the vegetarian section. All vegan options, however, are listed as such as they are advertised as vegan-only.
Vegetarian
Terre à Terre
Located in the heart of the South Lanes, just near the Town Hall, Terre à Terre has been making ethical and sustainable food choices for nearly 30 years. Not only that, they now also offer a wide range of products – as featured on their menus – to purchase (in-house or online). The range includes sweets and nibbles to jams, pickles, and chutneys.
Food for Friends
Another South Lanes favourite, Food for Friends was probably one of the first vegetarian restaurants I visited in Brighton. Before I was even a vegetarian!
Dating back to 1981, Food for Friends is one of Brighton’s oldest vegetarian (with further vegan options too!) restaurants. They serve a polite variety of dishes from burgers to risottos, as well as colourful Sunday roasts.
Iydea
In the heart of Kensington Gardens, within the North Lanes, sits a vibrant café that offers hearty lunches and light bites, as well as juices, smoothies and milkshakes. Iydea is one of those cafés that is always busy, but is always worth the wait.
The process at Iydea is simple; choose a main (for example a vegetable lasagne or enchilada) and then a side (such as ’slaw, salad or wedges). Helpings are generous so be clever with your selections!
Wai Kika Moo Kau
Situated in the North Lanes, Wai Kika Moo Kau serves a great menu of lunches; from ‘Bang Bang’ tofu wraps to nachos, as well as cakes and milkshakes!
If you have an appetite, then their breakfasts will sort you right out!
Vegan
Halo Burger @ The Fountain Head
One of the wonderful things about the food outlets in Brighton is that you’ll often find them setting up shop in local bars and pubs, and Halo Burger is no different!
Found at The Fountain Head within the North Lanes, Halo Burger offers wicked vegan burgers and delectable sides, from onion strips to crispy jalapenos!
Gooder Kebab
Located in Kemptown, near the seafront, Gooder Kebab looks like your typical Turkish kebab shop on the outside, but inside you’ll find colourful, Turkish plant-based kebabs, burgers and salads.
This is the perfect accompaniment to a night out!
Flower Burger
Arriving in December 2021, Flower Burger is the home to the original Rainbow Burger. We were invited to try out their menu on opening night and it was such a treat. T didn’t know what to make of his violet bun!
As well as fresh and delicious food, the atmosphere is vibrant and welcoming. Our favourite part was having a go on their swing-chairs within the restaurant.
Purezza
Sitting as the UK’s first vegan pizzeria, Purezza has two restaurants in Brighton.
As well as sourdough pizzas, there’s also calzone on offer as well as pasta and salads. If you’re a sides person like me, then there’s plenty of those to choose from too!
Beelzebab @ The Hope & Ruin
Another pub collaboration on the list, this time it’s Beelzebab located at The Hope & Ruin pub, just down from Brighton Station.
This is home to the most epic vegan hot dogs, doner ‘meat’ and loaded fries you’ll find in Brighton, as well as an incredible atmosphere. I went here straight after my first vaccine and it was the perfect reward. I chose the Krautwerk during my visit, which is a 9″ tofu dog with sauerkraut, gherkin, crispy onion, mustard and ketchup!
Vurger
A firm family favourite when we’re out shopping, Vurger offers ‘fast food’ vegan burgers as well as indulgent sides, from tater tots to mac ’n’ cheese! These are perfect for smaller stomachs or as a side to share.
Sometimes, I visit for the milkshakes alone!
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Vegan Noms @ World’s End Pub
Our last pub-based option is Vegan Noms, who serve up 100% plant-based, guilt free junk food.
Born out of the experimental pub and food scene of Brighton, Vegan Noms cooks up creative and mouth-watering dishes, powered solely by plants.
From their Not Dogs to their Chick’n Wings you won’t be disappointed! If you’re super peckish, they also have a large selection of sides, shakes and desserts!
Really Happy Chicken
Forget KFC, Really Happy Chicken is the home of fried ‘chicken’.
Whether you fancy a wrap, a burger, or a salad box RHC has all your vegan chicken needs covered. There’s also a wonderful selection of sides on offer, as well as their very own ‘chicken’ wings.
If you’ve enjoyed this post, let us know in the comments. Likewise, if you fancy recommending any other Brighton vegetarian and vegan eateries for us to try, get in touch!
Feature image credit: Evgeny Klimenchenko / Unsplash
