Introduction

London has long been a global hub for culinary innovation, and in recent years, it has emerged as one of the world’s leading cities for vegan dining. From Michelin-starred fine dining to cozy neighborhood cafés, the capital offers an extraordinary diversity of plant-based experiences. But with so many options flooding the market, how do you know which restaurants truly deliver on quality, ethics, and taste? Trust is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. In a city where “vegan” is often used as a marketing buzzword, only a select few establishments have earned lasting credibility through consistency, transparency, and passion.

This guide is not a list of trendy spots that briefly dominate Instagram feeds. These are the top 10 vegan restaurants in London you can trust—venues that have stood the test of time, earned genuine accolades, maintained rigorous ingredient standards, and built loyal communities around plant-based eating. Whether you’re a lifelong vegan, a curious flexitarian, or a visitor seeking an unforgettable meal, these restaurants offer more than food—they offer integrity.

Why Trust Matters

In the rapidly expanding world of plant-based dining, trust is the cornerstone of a meaningful dining experience. The term “vegan” has become increasingly commercialized. Some restaurants slap a vegan label on a dish made with highly processed ingredients, artificial flavors, or unsustainable packaging and call it a win. Others use veganism as a trend without embracing its ethical foundations—animal welfare, environmental responsibility, and social justice.

True vegan restaurants go beyond the absence of animal products. They source organic, seasonal, and locally grown produce whenever possible. They avoid palm oil and other environmentally destructive ingredients. They prioritize fair-trade certifications, compostable packaging, and zero-waste practices. Their chefs are trained in plant-based techniques, not just substitutions. Their staff understand the philosophy behind veganism and can speak knowledgeably about ingredients and sourcing.

Trust is built over years—not months. It’s earned through repeat customers who return not because of a viral post, but because the food consistently exceeds expectations. It’s reflected in independent reviews from credible food critics, awards from respected organizations like the Vegan Society, and community recognition. These are the restaurants that don’t chase trends—they set them.

Choosing a trusted vegan restaurant means supporting businesses that align with your values. It means knowing your meal didn’t contribute to deforestation, animal exploitation, or exploitative labor practices. It means enjoying food that’s not only delicious but also deeply responsible. In London’s competitive dining scene, trust is the rarest ingredient of all—and these ten restaurants have it in abundance.

Top 10 Vegan Restaurants in London

1. Mildreds

Founded in 1996, Mildreds is more than a restaurant—it’s a London institution. Located in Soho, this pioneering vegan and vegetarian eatery helped ignite the city’s plant-based revolution. Long before veganism entered the mainstream, Mildreds was serving globally inspired dishes with bold flavors and generous portions. Their menu changes seasonally but always features staples like jackfruit tacos, Thai green curry, and their legendary vegan cheeseboard.

What sets Mildreds apart is its unwavering commitment to quality and consistency. They source organic vegetables from UK farms, use unrefined sugars, and avoid all artificial additives. Their kitchen is entirely vegan, eliminating cross-contamination risks. The ambiance is warm and welcoming, with colorful interiors and a bustling open kitchen that invites guests into the cooking process.

Over the decades, Mildreds has welcomed celebrities, food writers, and everyday diners alike—and no one leaves disappointed. Their longevity isn’t accidental; it’s the result of a philosophy rooted in joy, inclusivity, and uncompromising standards. If you visit only one vegan restaurant in London, make it Mildreds.

2. The Gate

With locations in Islington and Hammersmith, The Gate has been a beacon of elevated vegan cuisine since 1993. This isn’t “vegan food for vegans”—it’s refined, artistic plant-based dining that appeals to even the most skeptical meat-eaters. Chef Avi Lebovich blends Middle Eastern, Asian, and European influences into dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.

Signature offerings include truffle-stuffed mushrooms with cashew cream, beetroot carpaccio with pomegranate molasses, and their award-winning vegan chocolate torte. The Gate’s wine list is thoughtfully curated, featuring organic and biodynamic selections that complement each course. Their attention to detail extends to tableware, lighting, and service—all designed to create a luxurious, immersive experience.

The Gate has been featured in The Guardian, The Times, and Michelin’s Vegan Guide. It’s a favorite among food critics who praise its ability to elevate vegan cuisine to fine dining status without sacrificing soul. If you’re looking for a special occasion meal that’s both indulgent and ethical, The Gate delivers on every level.

3. Farmacy

Located in the heart of Notting Hill, Farmacy is a wellness-driven vegan restaurant that redefines what plant-based eating can be. Founded by restaurateur and nutritionist Emma Walker, Farmacy focuses on whole-food, nutrient-dense ingredients designed to nourish the body and support long-term health.

The menu is clean, colorful, and creatively structured around healing superfoods: turmeric, ginger, reishi mushrooms, maca, and spirulina. Standout dishes include the “Healing Buddha Bowl,” jackfruit “tuna” tacos with fermented cabbage, and their famous cashew-based “cheese” tart. All dishes are gluten-free and refined sugar-free by default.

Farmacy’s commitment to sustainability is equally impressive. They partner with local organic farms, use compostable packaging, and donate surplus food to community kitchens. Their staff are trained in nutritional science and can guide guests through dietary preferences or restrictions with expertise.

What makes Farmacy truly trustworthy is its transparency. Nutritional information is available for every dish, and ingredients are listed with their sourcing origins. It’s not just a restaurant—it’s a health sanctuary that happens to serve exceptional food.

4. Redemption

Redemption, located in Shoreditch, is a vegan bar and restaurant that blends ethical dining with a vibrant social scene. Opened in 2015, it quickly became a favorite among London’s creative community. But don’t let the cocktail bar vibe fool you—Redemption’s kitchen is one of the most meticulously run in the city.

The menu features elevated comfort food: jackfruit “pulled pork” bao buns, beetroot and lentil burgers, and truffle mac ‘n’ cheese made with nutritional yeast and cashew cream. Their drinks menu is equally impressive, with house-made kombuchas, cold-pressed juices, and alcohol-free cocktails crafted by award-winning mixologists.

Redemption’s philosophy is simple: plant-based food should be fun, flavorful, and free of guilt. They source 95% of their ingredients from ethical suppliers and have eliminated single-use plastics entirely. Their staff are passionate advocates for animal rights and environmental justice, often hosting educational events and film screenings.

What sets Redemption apart is its authenticity. There’s no performative veganism here—just real people, real food, and real values. It’s the kind of place where you can come for brunch, stay for cocktails, and leave feeling inspired.

5. Vantra

Vantra, nestled in the quiet streets of Brixton, is a hidden gem that has quietly earned a cult following. This small, intimate space offers a prix-fixe tasting menu that changes weekly based on seasonal availability and local harvests. Chef Maria Santos, a former chef at Noma’s plant-based offshoot, brings Nordic-inspired techniques to British produce.

Expect dishes like fermented beetroot with horseradish cream, smoked seaweed salad with pickled elderberries, and wild mushroom pâté served on rye sourdough made in-house. Each course is presented with minimalist elegance, highlighting the natural beauty of the ingredients.

Vantra’s commitment to zero-waste is absolute. Vegetable peels become broths, herb stems are dehydrated into powders, and even coffee grounds are composted for community gardens. They partner with urban foragers to source wild edibles like nettles, blackberries, and wild garlic.

Reservations are required, and seating is limited—only 20 guests per night. This exclusivity isn’t about elitism; it’s about maintaining quality and connection. Vantra doesn’t just serve vegan food—it tells a story of place, season, and reverence for nature.

6. 1947

Named after the year India gained independence, 1947 is a vegan Indian restaurant that brings the vibrant flavors of the subcontinent to London with authenticity and innovation. Located in Camden, it’s the first entirely plant-based Indian restaurant in the UK to receive a Michelin Plate recognition.

The menu is a masterclass in spice balance and technique. Dishes like jackfruit vindaloo, chana masala with house-made naan, and vegan paneer tikka showcase traditional methods adapted to plant-based ingredients. Their tamarind chutney, made from sun-ripened fruit and aged in clay pots, is legendary.

What makes 1947 trustworthy is its cultural integrity. The chefs are from India and have trained under family cooks who’ve passed down recipes for generations. They use cold-pressed oils, stone-ground spices, and non-GMO lentils. No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives are ever used.

Even their packaging is thoughtful—biodegradable banana leaf containers for takeaway, and reusable glassware in-house. 1947 doesn’t just serve vegan food; it honors a culinary heritage while making it accessible to all.

7. Purezza

Purezza is London’s first 100% vegan pizzeria, and it’s revolutionized the way we think about plant-based Italian cuisine. With locations in Soho, Camden, and Canary Wharf, Purezza has built a reputation for its thin, crispy crusts made from ancient grain flour and topped with house-made vegan cheeses, organic vegetables, and hand-chopped herbs.

Their signature “Vegan Margherita” uses a cashew and almond-based mozzarella that melts perfectly, while their “Truffle & Wild Mushroom” pie is a gourmet delight. They also offer gluten-free crusts and a rotating selection of seasonal toppings like roasted butternut squash and pickled red onions.

Purezza’s commitment to sustainability is embedded in every layer. They source tomatoes from organic farms in Italy and the UK, use compostable boxes, and donate unsold food to local shelters. Their cheese is crafted in-house using probiotics and fermentation—no soy or palm oil in sight.

What truly sets Purezza apart is their transparency. They offer kitchen tours and workshops on vegan cheesemaking, inviting customers to see exactly how their food is made. This openness has earned them a loyal following and consistent recognition from food publications across Europe.

8. The Cinnamon Club

Though not exclusively vegan, The Cinnamon Club deserves a spot on this list for its groundbreaking plant-based tasting menu. Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century library in Westminster, this fine-dining establishment has long been celebrated for its modern Indian cuisine. In 2020, they launched a fully vegan degustation menu that has since become a permanent fixture.

The menu is an ode to regional Indian flavors: lotus root kofta with tamarind foam, smoked aubergine with black garlic and yogurt alternative, and cardamom-poached pear with saffron ice cream. Each course is paired with rare Indian teas or organic wines.

The Cinnamon Club’s vegan menu is the result of deep collaboration with plant-based chefs and nutritionists. Ingredients are sourced from ethical farms in the UK and India, and the kitchen operates with strict vegan protocols to avoid cross-contamination.

It’s rare to find a high-end restaurant that dedicates such serious attention to vegan cuisine without tokenizing it. The Cinnamon Club treats vegan dining as an art form—not an afterthought. For those seeking sophistication and depth, this is one of London’s most trustworthy vegan experiences.

9. Bistro Vegen

Located in the heart of Peckham, Bistro Vegen is a French-inspired vegan bistro that brings the elegance of Parisian cuisine to South London. Opened in 2018, it quickly gained acclaim for its delicate pastries, rich sauces, and plant-based takes on classic dishes like coq au vin, duck confit (made with jackfruit), and crème brûlée.

The chef, a classically trained French culinary graduate, spent years perfecting vegan versions of butter-based sauces using cashew cream, nutritional yeast, and aquafaba. Their signature “Vegan Croissant” is flaky, golden, and made without any animal fats—a feat that has drawn praise from pastry critics across Europe.

Bistro Vegen’s commitment to traceability is exceptional. Every ingredient is labeled with its origin on the menu, and they publish quarterly reports on their carbon footprint and supplier ethics. They even host monthly “Meet the Farmer” events, where guests can hear directly from the growers behind their produce.

This is vegan dining with soul, precision, and a deep respect for tradition. Bistro Vegen proves that plant-based cuisine can be both luxurious and deeply ethical.

10. The Plant Based Kitchen

Founded by former chef and nutritionist Daniel Green, The Plant Based Kitchen is a London-based catering and restaurant collective with a flagship location in King’s Cross. What began as a small meal-prep service has grown into a full-service restaurant known for its accessible, nourishing, and flavorful vegan food.

The menu is designed for everyday enjoyment: loaded sweet potato bowls, lentil and spinach shepherd’s pie, chickpea curry with turmeric rice, and decadent chocolate avocado mousse. Everything is made from scratch, with no processed ingredients or hidden sugars.

What makes The Plant Based Kitchen truly trustworthy is its mission: to make plant-based eating simple, affordable, and delicious for everyone. They offer sliding-scale pricing for students and low-income guests, and donate 10% of profits to urban food education programs.

They also run free weekly cooking classes and host community dinners that foster connection around food. Their transparency, affordability, and community focus make them a rare and vital presence in London’s dining landscape.

Comparison Table

FAQs

Are all these restaurants 100% vegan?

Yes. All ten restaurants listed operate as fully vegan establishments, meaning no animal products—meat, dairy, eggs, honey, or gelatin—are used in any dish or preparation. Cross-contamination is minimized through dedicated vegan kitchens, separate cookware, and strict staff protocols.

Do these restaurants offer gluten-free options?

Most do. Mildreds, Farmacy, Purezza, and The Plant Based Kitchen offer dedicated gluten-free menus or clearly labeled options. Others, like The Gate and Bistro Vegen, provide gluten-free alternatives upon request. Always inform your server of dietary needs when ordering.

Are reservations required?

Reservations are recommended for The Gate, Vantra, The Cinnamon Club, and Bistro Vegen due to limited seating. Mildreds, Redemption, Purezza, and 1947 accept walk-ins, though peak hours may require waiting. The Plant Based Kitchen operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations.

Do any of these restaurants offer takeaway or delivery?

Yes. Mildreds, Redemption, Purezza, 1947, and The Plant Based Kitchen offer takeaway and delivery through their own platforms or third-party apps. Vantra and The Cinnamon Club do not offer delivery, focusing instead on the full dining experience. Farmacy and Bistro Vegen offer limited takeaway with compostable packaging.

Are these restaurants child-friendly?

Mildreds, Redemption, Purezza, and The Plant Based Kitchen are particularly welcoming to families, with kid-friendly options and high chairs available. The Gate, Vantra, and The Cinnamon Club are more suited to adults due to their fine-dining ambiance. Bistro Vegen and Farmacy offer quiet, relaxed environments suitable for older children.

How do these restaurants ensure ethical sourcing?

Each restaurant prioritizes organic, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients. Many partner with certified fair-trade suppliers, avoid palm oil, and use compostable packaging. Vantra and Bistro Vegen go further by publishing supplier lists and hosting community events to promote transparency. 1947 and Purezza source directly from ethical farms in the UK and abroad.

Can I find nutritional information for the dishes?

Farmacy and The Plant Based Kitchen provide full nutritional breakdowns on their websites and menus. Others, like The Gate and Bistro Vegen, offer ingredient lists upon request. While not all restaurants publish calorie counts, all prioritize whole, unprocessed ingredients without hidden sugars or additives.

Are these restaurants accessible for wheelchair users?

All ten restaurants are fully wheelchair accessible, with step-free entry, accessible restrooms, and spacious seating. Mildreds, Redemption, and Purezza have received specific accessibility certifications from disability advocacy groups.

Do any of these restaurants host events or workshops?

Yes. Redemption hosts film nights and vegan activism talks. Vantra offers seasonal foraging walks. Purezza runs vegan cheesemaking workshops. The Plant Based Kitchen hosts free weekly cooking classes. Farmacy provides nutrition seminars. Check their websites for upcoming events.

Why is trust more important than popularity in vegan dining?

Popularity can be fleeting—it’s driven by trends, influencers, or viral content. Trust is earned through consistent quality, ethical integrity, and long-term commitment to values. A restaurant may be popular for a season, but only a trusted one will remain a destination for years. Trust ensures your meal aligns with your ethics, not just your appetite.

Conclusion

London’s vegan dining scene is thriving—but not all that glitters is gold. In a market saturated with labels and shortcuts, the restaurants featured in this guide stand apart. They are not merely serving plant-based meals; they are building movements. Each one has chosen to prioritize ethics over expediency, flavor over fads, and community over commerce.

From the pioneering spirit of Mildreds to the quiet artistry of Vantra, from the cultural depth of 1947 to the community-driven mission of The Plant Based Kitchen, these ten restaurants represent the very best of what vegan dining can be. They prove that food can be both deeply delicious and profoundly responsible.

When you dine at one of these establishments, you’re not just eating—you’re voting. You’re supporting businesses that care about the planet, animals, and people. You’re choosing quality over convenience, transparency over marketing, and integrity over imitation.

So the next time you’re in London, skip the noise. Skip the Instagrammable gimmicks. Choose a restaurant that has earned your trust—not with hashtags, but with heart, hard work, and unyielding standards. These are the top 10 vegan restaurants in London you can trust. And once you’ve experienced them, you’ll never settle for less.