A Vegan's Guide to Edinburgh: The Best Plant-Based Eats

Edinburgh's Plant-Based Revolution

Edinburgh's vegan scene has exploded over the past few years, transforming from a handful of health food shops and basic vegetarian options to a diverse ecosystem of innovative restaurants, traditional pubs with excellent plant-based menus, and specialty venues that prove vegan food can be both satisfying and sophisticated. This transformation reflects both changing dietary preferences and Edinburgh's commitment to sustainability and innovation in food culture.

Top 5 All-Vegan Restaurants

Edinburgh's dedicated vegan restaurants represent the pinnacle of plant-based innovation, each offering unique approaches to vegan cuisine that challenge preconceptions and deliver exceptional dining experiences.

1. Holy Cow

This grassroots vegan restaurant in the Grassmarket has become Edinburgh's most beloved plant-based institution through their commitment to affordable, delicious food that doesn't compromise on flavor or creativity. Holy Cow proves that vegan food doesn't need to be expensive or pretentious to be exceptional.

Their menu changes regularly but consistently features comfort food classics reimagined with plant-based ingredients. Their "fish" and chips using banana blossom is remarkable—the texture and flavor are so convincing that even committed carnivores leave impressed. The Buddha bowls combine global flavors with local ingredients, while their desserts demonstrate that vegan sweets can be every bit as indulgent as traditional versions.

The restaurant's casual atmosphere and reasonable prices make it accessible to everyone, not just committed vegans. The staff's genuine enthusiasm for plant-based eating is infectious, and they're always happy to explain ingredients and preparation methods to curious diners.

2. Harmonium

Located on Lothian Road, Harmonium elevates vegan dining to fine dining standards while maintaining a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Their approach combines classic cooking techniques with innovative plant-based ingredients, creating dishes that are both familiar and surprising.

The seasonal menu showcases Scottish ingredients prepared with international influences. Their mushroom Wellington is a masterpiece of texture and flavor, while their vegan haggis preparation offers a plant-based take on Scotland's national dish that's authentic in spirit while being completely innovative in execution.

The cocktail program is equally impressive, with creative drinks that incorporate unusual plant-based ingredients and local spirits. The interior design combines modern Scottish aesthetics with cozy warmth, creating an atmosphere that's perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.

3. David Bann

This vegetarian restaurant (with extensive vegan options) on St. Mary's Street has been a pioneer in Edinburgh's plant-based scene for over two decades. David Bann's longevity speaks to their consistent quality and their ability to evolve with changing tastes while maintaining their core commitment to exceptional vegetarian cuisine.

The menu spans global cuisines, offering everything from Mediterranean-inspired dishes to Asian fusion creations. Their vegan options are clearly marked and creatively conceived, often featuring ingredients and techniques that showcase the diversity possible within plant-based cooking.

The restaurant's elegant interior and professional service make it suitable for business dinners or romantic meals, demonstrating that plant-based dining can be sophisticated without being intimidating. Their wine list includes an excellent selection of vegan wines, carefully chosen to complement their food offerings.

4. Kalpna

This family-run Indian restaurant on St. Patrick Square serves some of Edinburgh's most flavorful vegan food, though they don't explicitly market themselves as a vegan restaurant. Their traditional Indian vegetarian cuisine naturally includes numerous vegan options that are authentic, complex, and deeply satisfying.

The menu features regional Indian dishes that showcase the diversity of plant-based cooking in Indian cuisine. Their dal preparations are exceptional, while their vegetable curries demonstrate the complexity possible when spices and vegetables are treated with proper respect and technique.

The restaurant's no-frills atmosphere focuses attention on the food, which consistently delivers flavors that are both authentic and accessible. The staff can guide vegan diners through the menu, explaining which dishes are suitable and how they're prepared.

5. Considerit

This newer addition to Edinburgh's vegan scene focuses on healthy, Instagram-worthy food that doesn't sacrifice flavor for appearance. Located on Broughton Street, Considerit attracts health-conscious diners and social media enthusiasts with colorful, nutritious dishes that taste as good as they photograph.

Their smoothie bowls are works of art, topped with fresh fruits, nuts, and superfoods arranged in patterns that are almost too beautiful to eat. The savory options include creative salads, grain bowls, and sandwiches that prove healthy eating doesn't have to be boring or restrictive.

The café's bright, airy interior and emphasis on fresh, local ingredients create an atmosphere that's energizing and optimistic. This is vegan food for people who want to feel good about what they're eating while enjoying flavors that are vibrant and satisfying.

Best Cafes for Vegan Cakes & Coffee

Edinburgh's café scene has embraced vegan baking with enthusiasm, producing cakes, pastries, and coffee drinks that rival any traditional offerings. These cafés prove that plant-based doesn't mean flavor-compromised.

Fortitude Coffee

While not exclusively vegan, Fortitude Coffee on York Place has developed an exceptional reputation for their plant-based coffee drinks and vegan pastries. Their oat milk flat whites are considered among the city's best, while their selection of vegan cakes changes daily but consistently impresses.

The café's commitment to quality extends to their vegan offerings—their plant-based milk options are carefully selected and properly steamed, while their vegan baking uses high-quality ingredients and sophisticated techniques. The result is coffee and pastries that happen to be vegan rather than compromised versions of traditional offerings.

Lovecrumbs

This West Port bakery and café has gained legendary status among Edinburgh's sweet-toothed vegans for their exceptional plant-based cakes and pastries. Their vegan brownies are particularly renowned, with a texture and flavor that converts skeptics and satisfies cravings.

The selection varies daily, but vegan options are always available and clearly marked. Their commitment to using quality ingredients means their vegan baking tastes like indulgent treats rather than health food, striking the perfect balance between pleasure and plant-based eating.

Brew Lab Coffee

This specialty coffee shop on South College Street offers excellent plant-based milk options and a rotating selection of vegan pastries. Their focus on coffee quality means their plant-based drinks receive the same attention to detail as traditional preparations.

The minimal, laboratory-inspired interior focuses attention on the coffee, while the knowledgeable staff can guide customers toward plant-based milk options that complement different coffee beans and brewing methods. Their vegan pastries are sourced from local bakers who specialize in plant-based baking.

Pubs with Great Vegan Options

Edinburgh's pub scene has adapted remarkably well to increased demand for vegan options, with many traditional pubs now offering plant-based dishes that are creative, flavorful, and satisfying. These pubs prove that vegan food fits perfectly into traditional Scottish hospitality.

The Hanging Bat

This beer-focused pub on Lothian Road has developed an excellent reputation for their vegan pub food, offering plant-based versions of pub classics that maintain the hearty, satisfying character expected from pub cuisine.

Their vegan haggis, neeps, and tatties is a revelation—capturing the essential flavors and textures of the traditional dish while being completely plant-based. Their beer selection includes numerous vegan-friendly options, with knowledgeable staff who can guide customers toward suitable choices.

The pub's craft beer focus attracts serious beer enthusiasts, while their commitment to quality vegan food ensures plant-based diners feel welcome rather than accommodated as an afterthought.

The Auld Hoose

This traditional Scottish pub on St. Leonard's Street offers an impressive vegan menu that goes far beyond basic pub fare. Their approach treats vegan dishes as serious menu items rather than reluctant additions, resulting in food that's both satisfying and creative.

Their vegan shepherd's pie is particularly impressive, with a rich, flavorful base and perfectly seasoned mashed potato topping. The pub's traditional atmosphere provides the perfect setting for enjoying plant-based comfort food in a genuinely Scottish environment.

Brewdog Lothian Road

While primarily known for their craft beer, this Brewdog location offers an extensive vegan menu that demonstrates how chain restaurants can successfully incorporate plant-based options without compromising on flavor or creativity.

Their vegan burgers are exceptional, with patties that have proper texture and flavor while their sides and sauces are all clearly marked for vegan suitability. The beer selection includes numerous vegan options, making this a reliable choice for plant-based beer enthusiasts.

Hidden Gems for Plant-Based Bites

Some of Edinburgh's best vegan food can be found in unexpected places—restaurants that aren't specifically vegan but offer exceptional plant-based options that rival dedicated vegan establishments.

Mosque Kitchen

This legendary institution near the Central Mosque serves authentic Pakistani and Indian cuisine with numerous naturally vegan options. Their dal and vegetable curries are exceptional, while their fresh naan and rice provide perfect accompaniments.

The no-frills atmosphere and cash-only policy focus attention on the food, which is consistently excellent and remarkably affordable. The portions are generous, making this an excellent choice for budget-conscious vegan diners who don't want to compromise on flavor.

Dishoom

This Bombay-style café on St. Andrew Square offers an extensive vegan menu that showcases the diversity of Indian plant-based cuisine. Their black dal is legendary among locals, while their vegetable curries demonstrate the complexity possible within traditional Indian cooking.

The restaurant's attention to atmosphere and service elevates the dining experience, while their commitment to authentic preparation methods ensures the vegan dishes are genuine representations of Indian cuisine rather than adapted versions.

Ting Thai Caravan

This casual Thai restaurant on Teviot Place offers numerous vegan options that capture the authentic flavors of Thai cuisine. Their tom kha soup made with coconut milk is exceptional, while their vegetable curries showcase traditional Thai ingredients and techniques.

The restaurant's focus on fresh ingredients and traditional preparation methods means their vegan dishes taste authentic rather than adapted, providing plant-based diners with genuine Thai flavors rather than compromise versions.

Vegan-Friendly Shopping

Edinburgh's vegan scene extends beyond restaurants to include specialty shops and markets that cater to plant-based lifestyles, making it easy for vegans to maintain their dietary choices while exploring the city.

Real Foods

With multiple locations across Edinburgh, Real Foods offers comprehensive selection of vegan products, from basic ingredients to specialty items that can be difficult to find elsewhere. Their deli sections often include prepared vegan foods perfect for picnics or quick meals.

Henderson's Salad Table

This vegetarian institution on Hanover Street offers an extensive salad bar with numerous vegan options, plus a shop selling vegetarian and vegan products. Their prepared foods section is excellent for quick, healthy meals.

Stockbridge Market

This Sunday market includes several vendors offering vegan products, from fresh vegetables to plant-based prepared foods. The market atmosphere makes it a pleasant way to shop while supporting local producers.

Practical Tips for Vegan Visitors

Edinburgh's vegan scene is welcoming and accessible, but a few practical tips can help plant-based visitors make the most of their dining experiences.

Booking and Timing

Popular vegan restaurants often require reservations, especially for weekend dinners. Many places offer lunch menus that provide excellent value compared to dinner prices, making midday dining an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.

Communicating Dietary Requirements

Edinburgh's hospitality industry is generally well-informed about vegan requirements, but clearly communicating your needs ensures the best experience. Most servers understand the difference between vegetarian and vegan, and are happy to check ingredients when unsure.

Seasonal Considerations

Edinburgh's vegan scene takes advantage of seasonal Scottish produce, with menus changing to reflect what's locally available. Summer offers the best selection of fresh, local vegetables, while winter menus often feature heartier, more warming dishes.

Edinburgh's vegan scene represents more than just dietary accommodation—it's a genuine culinary movement that's expanding possibilities and challenging assumptions about plant-based eating. Whether you're a committed vegan, exploring plant-based options, or simply curious about innovative cuisine, Edinburgh offers experiences that satisfy, surprise, and demonstrate that ethical eating doesn't require sacrificing flavor, creativity, or pleasure.

The city's approach to vegan dining—embracing it as part of the broader culinary landscape rather than segregating it as a specialty niche—means plant-based visitors can enjoy Edinburgh's food culture fully while maintaining their dietary principles. It's this integration that makes Edinburgh one of the world's great cities for vegan travelers.