Veganuary invites us all to try eating only plant-based foods for a month. We round up the city’s vegan and vegetarian dining options
From indulgent plant-based comfort food to globally inspired cuisine, Cambridge caters for herbivores and flexitarians alike. With its burgeoning array of restaurants and cafes dedicated to meat-free dining, there’s never been a better time to explore the greener side of Cambridge’s culinary scene.
“Veganuary has been going strong since 2014,” says Dr Toni Vernelli, head of policy and communications for the Veganuary campaign. “Right from that first year we had more than 3,000 people sign up, so it seemed to hit the zeitgeist from the start. It’s been growing ever since: millions of people have taken part in our one-month vegan pledge since then, and now we’re completely global.”
There are three main reasons for signing up. “Obviously, the environmental impact of livestock farming is gaining a lot more awareness now, but people also take part for health or animal welfare reasons. Often it’s a combination of all three.”
Participants tend to fall into the 22-55 age bracket, and most are still eating meat or fish. “They don’t intend to go vegan,” adds Toni. “Converting people to veganism isn’t our mission: we’re just trying to introduce them to plant-based foods. Hopefully, they like some dishes and keep them in their diet going forward; more than 80% of people taking part say they’ll try to permanently reduce their meat consumption.”
Lots of beginner vegans sign up as well, in order to receive the free emails, get the recipes and be part of the general buzz. “Our support is really helpful,” says Toni.
Cambridge is home to lots of cafes and restaurants where you can try out veganism and vegetarian dining without making that long-term commitment. If you’re ready to make the shift, these venues will support you every step of the way – and they will even change menus seasonally to keep things interesting!
Located near the Grafton Centre, Thrive offers a cosy, community-driven dining experience with sustainability at its heart. This cafe serves a 100% plant-based menu brimming with vibrant and wholesome options. The Buddha bowls are a must-try, piled with seasonal vegetables, grains and protein-packed toppings like smoky tempeh or marinated tofu. Thrive also caters to sweet-toothed diners, with a rotating selection of desserts including rich chocolate brownies and creamy cheesecakes – all dairy-free. Its welcoming vibe and eco-conscious ethos make it a haven for anyone seeking food that’s as good for the planet as it is for the palate.
For a truly elevated vegetarian dining experience, look no further than Vanderlyle. Located on Mill Road, this Michelin-recommended restaurant is helmed by a team that’s passionate for sustainable, locally sourced cuisine. The ever-changing set menu showcases the best of what’s in season, often highlighting produce from nearby farms. Vanderlyle focuses heavily on plant-based creations, and its enviable ability to transform simple ingredients into artful plates makes this a must-visit for any food lover. “We also create a soft drinks pairing and seasonal cocktail that changes with our menu and the seasons. A popular choice is our fig leaf negroni,” says assistant manager Alice Park.
Cambridge’s love affair with Indian cuisine takes on a plant-powered twist at The Tiffin Truck. Situated on Regent Street, this vibrant eatery brings the flavours of India to the forefront with a menu that includes plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. The thali is a standout, offering a medley of dishes that might include creamy dhal or tangy pickles along with aromatic curry. The tandoori cauliflower, which is marinated in spices and cooked to perfection, is a particular favourite among diners. With its lively atmosphere and bold flavours, The Tiffin Truck is an excellent choice for those craving a culinary journey.
Africfood, a restaurant on Hills Road, is bringing the vibrant flavours of West Africa to Cambridge. Indulge in creamy egusi, a soup made with ground melon seeds and pounded yam, or savour the smoky richness of the iconic jollof rice, prepared with a medley of tomatoes, peppers and aromatic spices. Try out the crispy akara (blended bean fritters) or the savoury moi moi (steamed bean pudding) for a taste of tradition, and don’t miss the comforting yam porridge (asaro) or flavourful efo riro spinach stew, cooked to perfection. At Africfood, vegan eating is bold, satisfying and deeply rooted in West African culture.
Who says pub grub can’t be plant-based? The Seven Stars on Newmarket Road is rewriting the rules of traditional British dining, catering to vegetarians and vegans without compromising on flavour. The vegan ‘fish’ and chips, which is made from banana blossom, is a crowd favourite, while its hearty vegan burgers and tasty, comforting pies ensure there’s something for everyone. Pair your meal with one of its craft beers or ciders – many of which are vegan-friendly – and enjoy the relaxed, welcoming ambience that makes this pub a staple of the local dining scene.
Cambridge’s culinary landscape is a testament to how far plant-based dining has come. From inventive creations to global flavours, the city offers an incredible variety of veggie options, promising a dish to tantalise every taste bud.
Bella Ramsey’s Pesto Pastry Spirals
Prep time: 15 mins
Cooking time: 15 mins
You will need:
- Jus-Rol puff pastry, ready rolled
- Tomato purée or vegan pesto
- Vegan cheese
- Lots of basil (leaves or dried)
- Salt and pepper
How to make it:
1. Roll out pastry sheet.
2. Cover with tomato purée/pesto but leave a thumb-width of space around the edges.
3. Sprinkle on vegan cheese and anything else you fancy: eg capers, olives, etc.
4. Wash, dry and tear basil leaves if fresh; distribute on top of cheese.
5. Roll up the loaded pastry sheet lengthways until you have a log.
6. Slice the log into little spirals and lay flat on a lined baking tray.
7. Pop them in the oven for 10-15 mins on gas mark 4/180°C.
Recipe and image courtesy of Veganuary. People who register to receive Veganuary’s 31 daily support emails will receive the full celebrity e-cookbook
