Wondering where to find the best vegetarian eats in Dublin? Look no further. This guide cuts straight to the chase, reviewing Dublin’s vegetarian restaurant scene where fresh flavors and plant-based delights are the norm. Many of the top vegetarian restaurants are conveniently located in the city centre, making them easily accessible for both locals and visitors. From cozy cafes to rich ethnic cuisines, we share where to go and what to expect from the city’s veg-friendly hotspots, focusing on vegetarian restaurants Dublin has to offer.
Introduction to Dublin’s Vegetarian Scene
Dublin’s vegetarian scene has blossomed into one of the most exciting in Europe, offering everything from creative cooking in cozy, dog friendly cafes to elegant fine dining experiences. The city’s restaurants have embraced the plant-based movement, crafting menus that cater to vegans, vegetarians, and anyone curious about exploring new flavors. Whether you’re seeking a quick vegan sandwich, a leisurely brunch, or a multi-course vegetarian feast, Dublin’s vibrant food scene has something for everyone. With an ever-growing number of vegan and vegetarian restaurants, the city is a haven for those who appreciate innovative dishes, welcoming atmospheres, and a commitment to delicious, sustainable food.
Key Takeaways
- Dublin’s vegetarian and vegan dining scene is diverse and vibrant, with establishments like Cornucopia, Umi Falafel (which has multiple locations across Dublin), V-Face, and KALE+COCO offering a range of plant-based options from hearty meals to creative fast food and healthy bowls.
- Unique culinary experiences are part of Dublin’s veggie charm with places like Little Bird Café and Yoga, and It’s A Trap offering a combination of wellness activities and eco-friendly coffee shop treats alongside their delicious vegetarian menus. Many of these restaurants are known for their impressive menu of vegetarian and vegan options.
- Vegan desserts are a big hit in Dublin, with Veggie Vibe Café and Greenshot offering an array of cakes and treats including options that cater to various dietary restrictions, making sure everyone has something sweet to enjoy.
Dublin’s Vegetarian and Vegan Hotspots
Embark on a culinary journey through Dublin city’s growing number of vegetarian and vegan restaurants. Some of the top places to check out include:
- Cornucopia: Known for its hearty vegetarian dishes
- Umi Falafel: Where you can savor authentic Middle Eastern flavors
- V-Face: A haven for creative vegan bites
Dublin city has a lot to offer for those seeking vegetarian food, including a variety of vegetarian and vegan food options at vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Dublin.
If a healthy pick-me-up is what you’re after, KALE+COCO’s bowls and smoothies are worth a try. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these are some of the best places to eat in Dublin city.
Plant-Based Paradise: Cornucopia
Cornucopia has been a cornerstone of Dublin’s veggie and vegan restaurant scene for over 30 years. Located on Wicklow Street, a central spot for vegetarian dining in Dublin, Cornucopia was established in 1986 and transformed into a full-fledged restaurant in 1993. It has been family-run for over three decades, making it the original champion of plant-based dining in Dublin.
Cornucopia is renowned for its diverse menu that caters to various dietary needs. Customers rave about the scrambled tofu, smokey baked pinto beans, seitan sausage roll, and almond granola. For dessert, the yuzu tofu cream is a crowd-pleaser. Best of all, they offer vegan afternoon tea options, ensuring that everyone can indulge in delectable sweet treats like berry silken torte and vegan chocolate fudge cake.
Middle Eastern Flavors: Umi Falafel
Enjoy a taste of the Middle East in Dublin’s heart at Umi Falafel. Run by a Dublin Palestinian family, Umi Falafel is an ode to authentic Middle Eastern and Vietnamese flavors, served up at various locations across the city. Their falafel, Middle Eastern Mezze, and fresh salads are a true delight for the taste buds. Umi Falafel also offers a selection of small plates inspired by Middle Eastern cuisine, perfect for sharing and sampling a variety of flavors.
Their falafel and halloumi wraps are some of the most popular menu items, packed with a medley of flavors like:
- plant-based shawarma strips
- crispy lettuce
- tangy red onion
- juicy tomatoes
- aromatic red cabbage
And let’s not forget the creamy baba ganoush and falafel patty that make these wraps absolutely irresistible. For those with different dietary needs, they offer a Saucy Cow vegan burger for a delicious plant-based option.
Creative Vegan Bites: V-Face
Moving forward in our culinary journey, we find V-Face, a game-changer in the Dublin vegan food scene. What sets V-Face apart is their innovative approach to vegan fast food. They transform traditional fast food favorites into 100% vegan street food, making it a top spot for vegan street food lovers.
The restaurant’s menu is full of creative vegan options. For instance, their Vegan Big Mac brings the familiar flavors of the classic burger into the vegan realm through creative cooking techniques. V-Face also offers a popular black bean burger, providing a flavorful, protein-rich meat alternative that appeals to both vegetarians and vegans. Their menu features vegan hot dogs as well, catering to fans of classic street food and hearty vegan snacks. Their vegan take on the traditional fast food dishes, like the Big Mac, reflects their dedication to inventive vegan street food, making them the vegan butcher of the fast-food scene.
Healthy Bowls & Smoothies: KALE+COCO
Rounding out our list of Dublin’s vegetarian and vegan hotspots is KALE+COCO. This delightful spot is known for its delicious smoothie bowls, a favorite among health-conscious diners. KALE+COCO offers a wide range of vegan-friendly options, from breakfasts to smoothies and treats. With delicious options like homemade banana bread and healthy breakfast choices like overnight oats, KALE+COCO is a paradise for health-conscious foodies.
Among their popular offerings, the Protein Punch bowl deserves a special mention. This bowl features a thick smoothie base made of frozen banana and oat milk, and is topped with a variety of toppings, including creamy cashew cream for a dairy-free finish, that make it both nutritious and delicious. Customers love the fresh, healthy food and the awesome vibe at the restaurant, which has earned KALE+COCO a perfect 5 out of 5 on Tripadvisor.
Unique Vegetarian Dining Experiences
Beyond restaurants and cafés, Dublin’s vegetarian and vegan scene offers unique dining experiences that cater to a holistic lifestyle. These unique venues go the extra mile to create memorable experiences for vegetarians and vegans alike, ensuring everyone enjoys flavorful and satisfying meals. How about combining a yoga class with a delicious vegetarian meal at Little Bird Café and Yoga? Or savoring vegan cinnamon buns and wraps with Korean BBQ-marinated seitan strips at the eco-friendly coffee shop, It’s A Trap? Intrigued? Let’s find out more about these vegan restaurants.
Yoga and Good Eats: Little Bird Café and Yoga
Little Bird Café and Yoga offers:
- A serene and welcoming environment to nourish your body and mind
- Yoga classes in various styles for all levels
- A selection of delightful vegetarian dishes and great coffee
- Promotion of a holistic wellness lifestyle
Founded by yoga instructor Kirsten Farrelly, this café is the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate.
The café offers a variety of yoga classes taught by experienced teachers in a friendly environment. Post-yoga, you can refuel with a delicious vegetarian meal. Some of their popular dishes include:
- Mushroom Toast
- Rice Bowl
- Jackfruit Tacos
- Avocado Toast
- Turkish eggs (a standout brunch option)
With such a diverse menu, you’re bound to find something to your liking.
Eco-Friendly Coffee Shop: It’s A Trap
Exploring further, discover It’s A Trap, an eco-friendly coffee shop that balances sustainability and taste. This vegan coffee shop not only offers delicious vegan treats but also uses sustainable packaging for take-away orders, making an effort to minimize its environmental footprint.
What’s more, It’s A Trap offers:
- Their own branded hoodies
- Various flavors of cake
- Americanos and coffee drinks
- Cookies and treats
- Lucky crackers, a unique snack available at the café
- An assortment of lunch options and other menu items
And the best part? It’s A Trap is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friend along while you enjoy your coffee and vegan treats.
Finer Dining Options for Vegetarians
For those looking to elevate their dining experience, Dublin boasts a selection of refined restaurants that put vegetarian and vegan cuisine in the spotlight. Glas, a Michelin star establishment, is renowned for its sophisticated vegetarian and vegan dishes, each plate a testament to creative culinary artistry. Sova Vegan Butcher stands out for its inventive approach to meat alternatives, offering a menu packed with vegan options that surprise and delight even the most discerning foodies. Brother Hubbard is another favorite, serving up a diverse range of vegetarian and vegan options in a stylish setting, while Umi Falafel brings a touch of Middle Eastern flair with its beautifully spiced vegetarian and vegan dishes. These restaurants are perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to the best vegetarian and vegan dining Dublin has to offer.
International Vegetarian Delights
The vegetarian and vegan scene in Dublin extends beyond Irish cuisine, offering a world of flavors from various vegetarian and vegan restaurants. Temple Bar, known as a vibrant nightlife and dining district, is home to several international vegetarian and vegan restaurants, adding to the diversity of Dublin’s food scene. Experience the authentic flavors of Vietnamese cuisine at Pho Kim, or transport your taste buds to India with Govinda’s vegetarian and vegan dishes.
Asian Fusion: Pho Kim
Pho Kim offers a comprehensive vegan menu of Vietnamese food in Dublin. Their Vegetarian Cha Gio, a crunchy spring roll filled with cabbage, carrots, Vietnamese mushrooms, and served with a sweet and spicy chilli sauce, is a must-try. Another popular dish is their Veggie Pho, a noodle soup with a veggie broth base, topped with an array of fresh veggies and fried tofu.
Pho Kim is not just about the food. The restaurant is also lauded for its affordability and high-quality service. With a reasonable price range and a high customer rating, Pho Kim certainly offers a delightful and budget-friendly vegan dining experience.
Indian Flavors: Govinda’s
Govinda’s is your destination if Indian flavors are what you’re craving. Located on Middle Abbey Street, a central hub for vegetarian dining in Dublin, this restaurant is known for its vegetarian and vegan dishes that bring a taste of India to Dublin’s dining scene. Some of the dishes you can enjoy at Govinda’s include:
- Home Made Bread
- Hot buttered Chapati
- Samosa with Savoury Dip
- Paneer in Tomato Sauce
- Thai curry mixed veg
Govinda’s offers a diverse menu that caters to all tastes and encourages a plant based diet through its wide selection of dishes.
Govinda’s offers:
- Vegetarian and vegan cuisine
- A unique dining experience that reflects cultural and religious traditions
- Authentic and flavorful Indian dishes with fresh ingredients and a variety of spices
Based on customer reviews, Govinda’s offers a dining experience that is both enjoyable and satisfying.
Budget-Friendly Veggie Eats
Enjoying vegetarian or vegan food in Dublin doesn’t need to be an expensive affair. There are plenty of budget-friendly veggie eats to be discovered.
In addition to favorites like Blazing Salads, Take A Veg, and Sova Vegan Butcher, Blackrock Market is another great spot for affordable vegetarian and vegan eats, with several vendors offering diverse plant-based options.
Wallet-Friendly Meals: Blazing Salads
Blazing Salads has been a favorite among Dublin’s vegan and vegetarian community for over 30 years. Known for its affordable, healthy, and delicious meals, this family-owned restaurant has stood the test of time and continues to be a beloved institution.
The restaurant offers a diverse menu that caters to various dietary needs. From plant-based breakfasts and tasty salads to filling meals and vegan cakes, there’s something for everyone. For a filling meal, you can opt for the Blazing Salad Bowl, a hearty combination of four salads with ingredients like soya, celery, and different nuts. They also offer quinoa with a mix of toasted almonds and apple for some crunch.
Affordable Vegan Fast Food: Take A Veg
Take A Veg, a fast-food joint with a twist, is considered one of the best vegan restaurants in Dublin for affordable fast food. Here, you can satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank. Take A Veg’s menu includes:
- Burgers
- Fries
- Pancakes
- Bowls
- Vegan jambons (a popular choice for those seeking a plant-based twist on classic deli fare)
All of these meat alternatives are tasty and affordable choices for a vegan sandwich, offering great vegetarian and vegan options.
Despite its affordable prices, Take A Veg does not compromise on quality or taste. Using top-notch plant-based ingredients, they whip up tasty vegan versions of classic fast-food dishes. Whether you’re a dedicated vegan or just someone who enjoys good food, Take A Veg is sure to delight your taste buds without straining your wallet.
Best Vegan Desserts in Dublin
Dublin’s vegan dessert scene ensures no meal is complete without a sweet ending. From Veggie Vibe Café’s array of vegan desserts to Greenshot’s rotating selection of vegan treats, Dublin offers numerous options for those with a sweet tooth. George’s Street Arcade is also home to several vegan dessert spots, making it a must-visit for anyone craving plant-based sweets.
Decadent Delights: Veggie Vibe Café
Veggie Vibe Café elevates vegan desserts to a new level. With a selection that includes cakes, cheesecakes, and raw desserts, you’re bound to find something to satisfy your sweet tooth. What’s more, they cater to various dietary needs, with gluten-free, refined sugar-free, dairy-free, and soy-free options available.
Their Tofu Cheesecake, made with vegetable yogurt, silken tofu, tapioca starch, and almond paste, among other ingredients, is a crowd favorite. But if you’re looking for something a bit different, why not try their vegan Jumbo Hot Dog? Made with top-notch plant-based ingredients, it’s a tasty and unique take on the classic hot dog.
Guilt-Free Indulgence: Greenshot
Greenshot, a new vegan bakery in central Dublin, offers an array of sweet treats. Whether you’re in the mood for a cake, pastry, or other baked goods, Greenshot has got you covered. And with a rotating selection of vegan treats, you can try something new every time you visit.
What sets Greenshot apart is its commitment to catering to various dietary needs. They offer a variety of gluten-free vegan desserts, including their Carrot Cake topped with homemade vegan buttercream, walnuts, and a sprinkle of rose petals. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or just someone who loves desserts, Greenshot is a must-visit.
Family-Friendly Vegetarian Restaurants
Dublin is a fantastic city for families who love vegetarian food, with plenty of restaurants that welcome kids and adults alike. Blazing Salads is a long-time favorite, offering a casual setting and a colorful array of fresh salads and wholesome vegetarian dishes that appeal to all ages. V-Face brings a playful vibe with its fun menu of vegan burgers and loaded fries, making it a hit with younger diners. The Saucy Cow is another must-visit, serving up mouthwatering vegan comfort food like loaded fries and creative burgers in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. And for families seeking nourishing, home-cooked meals, Cornucopia’s extensive vegetarian menu is sure to please. These vegetarian restaurants make it easy for families to enjoy delicious, plant-based meals together in some of Dublin’s most welcoming spots.
Food Tours and Events for Plant-Based Foodies
For those eager to dive deeper into Dublin’s plant-based scene, the city offers a variety of food tours and events dedicated to vegan and vegetarian cuisine. Join a Dublin Vegan Food Tour to sample the best vegan food and discover hidden gems among the city’s top vegan restaurants. Food festivals and vegetarian food events are held throughout the year, giving foodies the chance to taste innovative dishes, meet local chefs, and learn about the latest trends in vegan and vegetarian cooking. Whether you’re interested in hands-on cooking workshops or guided tastings of the city’s most popular vegetarian food, these experiences are a fantastic way to explore Dublin’s thriving vegan and vegetarian restaurants and connect with fellow food lovers.
Supporting Local Vegetarian Businesses
Choosing to dine at local vegetarian restaurants in Dublin is about more than just great food—it’s a way to support businesses that prioritize sustainability, community, and fresh local produce. Spots like Sprout & Co are dedicated to sourcing the best local ingredients, ensuring every dish is packed with flavor and nutrition. The Fumbally is another standout, known for its commitment to reducing food waste and creating a welcoming space for everyone. By enjoying vegetarian food at these restaurants, you’re helping to foster a more sustainable and compassionate food culture in Dublin, while also savoring some of the city’s most delicious and thoughtfully prepared dishes. Supporting local vegetarian businesses means investing in a healthier future for both people and the planet.
Summary
We’ve taken you on a culinary journey through Dublin’s vibrant vegetarian and vegan food scene, introducing you to a variety of restaurants and unique dining experiences. From long-standing institutions like Cornucopia to innovative eateries like V-Face, Dublin offers something for every palate. Key areas such as Grand Canal Dock, Capel Street, and Drury Street are also home to standout vegetarian and vegan restaurants, each contributing to the city’s dynamic culinary landscape. Many of these restaurants cater to both vegetarians and meat eaters, making them ideal for mixed groups. Whether you’re looking for a hearty vegetarian meal, a creative vegan dish, or a sweet vegan treat, Dublin has you covered. So why wait? Embark on your own culinary adventure and discover the green side of Dublin’s dining scene!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any vegan and gluten-free dessert options in Dublin?
Yes, you can find vegan and gluten-free dessert options at Veggie Vibe Café and Greenshot in Dublin!
Can I find budget-friendly vegan meals in Dublin?
Yes, you can find budget-friendly vegan meals at Blazing Salads and Take A Veg in Dublin. Enjoy your plant-based options!
Where can I find vegan fast food in Dublin?
You can find vegan fast food at V-Face and Take A Veg in Dublin for innovative and budget-friendly options. Enjoy your plant-based meal!
Are there any vegetarian or vegan restaurants in Dublin that offer unique dining experiences?
Yes, Little Bird Café and Yoga offers both vegetarian food and yoga classes, while It’s A Trap is an eco-friendly coffee shop serving vegan food, providing unique dining experiences.
Can I find international vegetarian cuisine in Dublin?
Yes, you can find international vegetarian cuisine in Dublin, such as Vietnamese and Indian-inspired dishes at places like Pho Kim and Govinda’s. Dublin’s diverse vegetarian scene offers a vibrant selection of global flavors, similar to the lively and eclectic food options you might find at Camden Market in London. Enjoy your meal!
