It’s widely accepted that many of us consume too much meat, but London’s best vegetarian restaurants prove that going meat-free can still feel like a treat. Whether you’ve been avoiding animal protein since childhood or recently became interested in the environmental benefits of a plant-based diet, London makes it easy to embrace vegetarianism. While some still associate a satisfying meal with meat, the capital’s chefs have developed inventive ways to create delicious dishes like bulgur chorizo, fried-seitan burgers, and mushroom biryani. Here’s a selection of the best vegetarian restaurants in London, offering indulgent meat-free dining experiences.
Granger & Co.
The late Australian culinary icon Bill Granger first opened his Sydney café in 1993, and it quickly gained a following for its legendary breakfasts. Today, Granger & Co. has locations in London, Seoul, and Tokyo. Known for fresh, veg-forward Aussie cuisine, vegetarians will feel right at home with dishes like coconut curry, miso tofu, and turmeric daal.
Various locations. grangerandco.com
Hopper’s
Hopper’s caters to everyone, from vegans to meat lovers. Opened in 2015 by Karan Gokani, this popular Sri Lankan restaurant chain offers a tantalizing array of vegetarian options, including jackfruit cutlets, devilled paneer, and aubergine kari. With locations in Marylebone, Soho, and King’s Cross, it’s a must-visit for plant-based foodies.
49 Frith St, W1D 4SG. hopperslondon.com
Bibi’s
For a home-cooked vegetarian meal during a central London lunch break, Bibi’s offers delicious daily salads with ingredients like spiced carrots, bulgar wheat, and couscous, topped with homemade hummus, halloumi, and falafel. Bibi Yapici’s small, cozy spots in Soho, Covent Garden, and Angel are perfect for a fresh, hearty lunch.
Various locations. letsgotobibis.co.uk
Mallow
Owned by the team behind the beloved vegetarian institution Mildreds, Mallow takes plant-based dining up a notch. Located in Borough Market, Mallow’s creative menu includes standout dishes like beetroot tempeh smash burgers and pimento bulgur chorizo. A second location is set to open in Canary Wharf soon.
1 Cathedral St, SE1 9DE. mallowlondon.com
Berber & Q
Known for its barbecue, Berber & Q in Haggerston doesn’t just grill meat. Vegetables like aubergine, beets, and cauliflower are cooked over an open flame and spiced with flavors from the Mediterranean and North Africa. Their mezze-style dining experience, complete with classic hummus and burnt baba ghanoush, is a veggie delight.
Arch 338 Acton Mews, Haggerston, E8 4EA. berberandqgrillhouse.com
Padella
Padella, from the team behind Michelin-starred Trullo, offers some of the best pasta in London, with locations in Borough Market and Shoreditch. The hand-rolled pasta dishes are perfect for vegetarians seeking a carb-filled feast.
6 Southwark St, SE1 1TQ. padella.co
Govinda’s
Situated below the Radha-Krishna Temple in Soho, Govinda’s is one of London’s oldest vegetarian restaurants. It serves affordable, traditional thali-style meals based on grains, vegetables, and lentils, with vegan options available.
10 Soho Street, W1D 3DL. Govinda’s
The Good Egg
Originally a street food stall, The Good Egg has expanded into two Middle Eastern-inspired restaurants in Soho and Stoke Newington. Known for its creative vegetarian options, the menu is a blend of flavors from Tel Aviv street food and Jewish delis, offering something for everyone.
93 Stoke Newington Church St, N16 0AS & Ground Floor, Kingly Court, W1B 5PW. thegoodegg.co
Temple of Seitan
Temple of Seitan, a 100% vegan fast-food favorite, has made waves in Hackney, Camden, and Brixton. Known for its deep-fried seitan creations, it’s a cruelty-free alternative to traditional fried chicken, with an unmistakably convincing taste.
Various locations. templeofseitan.co.uk
Mildreds
A Soho institution for almost three decades, Mildreds is renowned for its hearty, seasonal vegetarian fare. With multiple locations across the city, it’s a go-to for robust dishes, organic wines, and a vibrant dining atmosphere.
Various locations. mildreds.co.uk
Rovi
While not strictly vegetarian, Rovi, part of the Ottolenghi family, places vegetables at the center of its menu. With dishes inspired by Middle Eastern cuisine, Rovi changes its offerings seasonally but consistently delivers exciting, veggie-packed plates.
59 Wells Street, W1A 3AE. ottolenghi.co.uk
From cozy cafés to upscale eateries, London’s vegetarian dining scene is more indulgent and innovative than ever.