South Africa is known for its biltong addiction and meat-heavy diet, so Cape Town was not a city which I anticipated would be very vegan-friendly. However, I have to admit I was absolutely blown away by the wide array of vegan options in the city. It actually turned out to be a plant-based haven and we didn’t have enough time to visit all the places we wanted to!
Based on our experiences, here are our top plant-powered recommendations:
Schekters Raw.
Our ultimate favourite 100% vegan spot, we went back numerous times to try more items on the menu. It’s a great place for brekkie, lunch or dinner. As the name suggests, there are a few raw options but much of the menu is cooked too. Personally I loved the vegan scrambled eggs, pumpkin pie flapjacks (pancakes), beyond burger and “snickers” smoothie/snack bar.
Nourish’d.
Another 100% vegan cafe we visited on numerous occasions. It is best known for its smoothie bowls (with “boobalicious” being my favourite), but also serves up salads, warm drinks, juices, toasts and sandwiches (Steph said the “BLT” was the best sarnie of her life!). All in all, a lovely sustainability focused spot.
Mojo Market.
You can’t miss this! An indoor market place in Sea Point filled with tonnes of food stands, the majority of which has vegan options. Plus every night there is live music, so the vibe is incredible. Our personal favourite stands were Salad Bae, All Thai’d Up, Noa Hummus Bar and Tortilla.
Hudsons.
A meaty burger joint which has an abundance of vegan options. Burgers, tacos, salads, loaded fries and even a vegan oreo shake. The perfect place for an indulgent meal!
Lekker Vegan.
Another great spot for vegan “junk food”, except this one is 100% plant based. Think burgers (including Beyond burger), onion rings, chicken nuggets, cheesecakes and so much more. Go with an empty stomach!
Raw & Roxy.
A raw vegan restaurant, but don’t let that put you off! The menu is simple but satisfying. It is known for its epic smoothie bowls, sushi, pizza, lasagna and desserts.
Jessy’s Vegan Waffles.
This dessert cafe specialises in vegan waffles which are to die for! They’re made from whole food ingredients but taste extremely indulgent, with toppings like homemade caramel sauce, vegan chocolate chips and even savoury options too.
The Kind Kitchen.
This 100% vegan restaurant has a seasonal menu that changes frequently. They’re known for an epic brunch with dishes like Beyond Meat stuffed croissants and flavoursome breakfast tacos.
Plant.
One of the oldest vegan spots in the city. It is 100% plant-based and cosy, so make sure you book in advance to get a seat. A great place for brekkie, lunch or dinner with menu items like breakfast burritos, spaghetti bolognese and vegan ribs.
The Sunshine Food Company.
This small 100% vegan eatery has a limited menu of three options, but it does them well. It serves up simple, affordable and delicious food which is jam-packed with flavour. Plus the owner is just a lovely human, don’t miss it!
Fat Cactus.
An authentic Mexican restaurant that caters to vegans. It has plant-based enchiladas, nachos, burgers, fajitas and even uses vegan cheese. The dream!
El Burro.
Another authentic Mexican spot which caters to vegans, it has a selection of plant-based options such as a delicious mushroom and white bean quesadilla.
Life Unframed.
Looking for vegan ice cream? These guys have you covered. They have three vegan flavours on sale every day, and they aren’t sh*tty sorbets. I’m talking creamy vanilla, sweet salted caramel and everything in-between. Lush.
Hokey Pokey.
This Poke restaurant has outlets across the city and an abundance of vegan options. There are pre-designed bowls as well as the ability to build your own. Easy peasy!
Massimos.
This Italian restaurant in Hout Bay has a whole vegan menu – complete with vegan cheese! Don’t miss the aubergine parmigiana and the fried cauliflower.
Jarryds.
This super popular brunch spot has a small selection of vegan options ( e.g. overnight oats and smoothie bowls) but their savoury dishes can be modified to be vegan friendly. We enjoyed the avocado toast with mushrooms, beetroot balsamic puree and seeds. Delicious!
Addis in Cape.
This authentic Ethiopoan restaurant has a whole host of veggie and vegan options, with a dedicated vegan menu! All their dishes are packed with fresh herbs, spices and tonnes of flavour.
Ground Zero Marley Coffee.
A cute coffee spot which serves up 100% veggie and mostly vegan food, be sure to ask them for their vegan french toast which isn’t on the menu.
Coffee Spots:
There is a selection of coffee spots in Cape Town which have good alternative milk options. Our personal favourites were macadamia lattes at Seattle Coffee Company and oat milk flat whites at Bootlegger Coffee. If you’re serious about a good brew and aren’t too fussed about vegan milks, I recommend visiting Truth Coffee Roastery which was chosen by the Daily Telegraph as the world’s best coffee shop.
Safe travels & happy eating!
Zanna x
