Are you ready for a mouthwatering journey through the most vegan-friendly cities in the world?
Grab your passport and your appetite, because we’re about to go on a plant-based adventure that’ll have you booking flights faster than you can say “nutritional yeast”!
As more people embrace the vegan lifestyle, cities around the world are stepping up their game to cater to plant-based eaters. From street food stalls to high-end restaurants, vegan options are blooming everywhere.
So, no matter if you’re a seasoned vegan traveler or exploring the plant-based life for the first time, this list will guide you to some of the most exciting vegan destinations on the planet.
The Most Vegan-Friendly Cities in the World
30. Munich, Germany
This Bavarian capital is quietly becoming a vegan hotspot. With around 2.5 vegan restaurants per 100,000 residents, Munich is proving that you can have your vegan pretzel and eat it too! The annual Veganmania festival, usually held in May, showcases the best of Munich’s vegan scene.
Popular vegan spots in Munich:
29. Sao Paulo, Brazil
Sao Paulo might be known for its meat-heavy churrascarias, but it’s also home to a thriving vegan community. With over 70 fully vegan restaurants, this Brazilian metropolis is a paradise for plant-based foodies. The Vegan Burger Fest, held annually, attracts thousands of hungry herbivores and showcases the city’s innovative approach to vegan cuisine.
Must-visit vegan restaurants in Sao Paulo:
- Pop Vegan Food: All vegan restaurant with pizza, burgers and more
- Loving Hut Vila Mariana: Part of the international vegan chain
28. Vienna, Austria
Vienna, the city of music and… veganism? That’s right! The Austrian capital is hitting all the right notes when it comes to plant-based cuisine. With about 2.8 vegan restaurants per 100,000 residents, Vienna is proving that you don’t need schnitzel to have a good time. The city hosts the annual Veganmania, one of Europe’s largest vegan summer festivals.
Top vegan picks in Vienna:
- Tian: Michelin-starred vegetarian restaurant with vegan options
- Veggiezz: Fast-casual vegan chain
- Swing Kitchen: Vegan burgers and comfort food
27. Madrid, Spain
Hola, vegan amigos! Madrid might be late to the vegan party, but it’s making up for lost time. The Spanish capital now boasts over 50 fully vegan restaurants, proving that plant-based paella is just as delicious as the traditional version. Don’t miss the Vegan Fest Madrid, usually held in September, which showcases the best of the city’s vegan offerings.
Vegan hotspots in Madrid:
- B13: Local favorite serving veganized Spanish classics
- Vega: Gourmet vegan dining
- Freedom Cakes: Vegan bakery and cafe
26. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen isn’t just about hygge and design – it’s also becoming a vegan paradise. With around 3 vegan restaurants per 100,000 residents, the Danish capital is showing that plant-based living can be just as cozy as traditional Danish cuisine. The city is making strides in sustainability, with a goal to make all municipal canteens 90% organic and increase plant-based options.
Must-try vegan spots in Copenhagen:
- Souls: Trendy vegan restaurant with multiple locations
- Plant Power Food: Organic, plant-based cafe
25. Singapore
Singapore, the Lion City, is roaring when it comes to vegan options. This city-state is a melting pot of cultures, and that diversity is reflected in its vegan scene. From plant-based chicken rice to vegan laksa, Singapore’s got it all. The annual VeganFest Singapore is a must-visit event for all things plant-based.
Top vegan picks in Singapore:
- VeganBurg: Singapore-born international vegan burger chain
- Genesis Vegan Restaurant: Local vegan buffet
24. Taipei, Taiwan
Taipei is a hidden gem in the vegan world. Thanks to its Buddhist influence, vegetarian and vegan options have always been available, but now the city is taking it to the next level with innovative plant-based cuisine. Taipei has over 6,000 vegetarian establishments, many of which are vegan-friendly. The city’s night markets are also a great place to find vegan street food.
Vegan hotspots in Taipei:
- Ooh Cha Cha: Healthy, organic vegan meal with a Taiwanese twist
- Mianto: Italian-inspired vegan cuisine
23. San Francisco, USA
San Francisco has long been at the forefront of progressive movements, and veganism is no exception. With about 3.2 vegan restaurants per 100,000 residents, the City by the Bay is a plant-based pioneer. The annual World Veg Festival celebrates all things vegetarian and vegan, attracting thousands of visitors.
Must-visit vegan restaurants in San Francisco:
- Shizen Vegan Sushi Bar & Izakaya: Innovative vegan sushi
- Wildseed: Plant-based restaurant with full bar
22. Porto, Portugal
Porto, known for its port wine, is also fermenting a vibrant vegan scene. This charming city offers a blend of traditional Portuguese flavors and innovative plant-based cuisine. The Porto Vegan Fest, usually held in May, is a must-visit for vegan foodies. Porto’s vegan scene is a perfect reflection of the city’s blend of tradition and modernism, offering plant-based versions of Portuguese classics alongside creative international dishes.
Top vegan picks in Porto:
- daTerra: All-you-can-eat vegan buffet with Portuguese flair
- Apuro Vegan Bar: Trendy vegan restaurant
- Vegana by Tentugal: Vegan pastry shop
21. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo might be famous for its sushi, but it’s also becoming a vegan hotspot. The Japanese capital is embracing plant-based cuisine with its typical enthusiasm and innovation. In fact, Tokyo has seen a 400% increase in vegan restaurants since 2018! The city also hosts several vegan festivals throughout the year, showcasing the best of Japan’s plant-based cuisine. Tokyo’s vegan scene is as diverse and innovative as the city itself, offering everything from traditional Buddhist vegetarian fare to cutting-edge plant-based cuisine.
Vegan hotspots in Tokyo:
- T’s TanTan: Popular vegan ramen chain in Tokyo Station
- 8ablish: Upscale vegan dining experience
- Ain Soph Ripple: Vegan fast food with Japanese twist
20. Prague, Czechia
Prague, the City of a Hundred Spires, is reaching new heights with its vegan offerings. With around 3.5 vegan restaurants per 100,000 residents, Prague is proving that Czech cuisine can be deliciously plant-based. Don’t miss Veggie Náplavka, a regular vegan market by the Vltava River that showcases the best of Prague’s vegan scene. Prague’s vegan environment is a perfect blend of traditional Czech flavors and international plant-based cuisine, offering everything from veganized local dishes to innovative global fare.
Must-try vegan spot in Prague:
- Vegan’s Prague: Traditional Czech cuisine, veganized
19. Warsaw, Poland
Warsaw is planting the seeds for a vegan revolution in Eastern Europe. The Polish capital has seen an explosion of vegan restaurants in recent years, making it a surprising but delightful destination for plant-based travelers. With over 50 fully vegan restaurants, Warsaw has more plant-based eateries than many Western European capitals.
Top vegan picks in Warsaw:
- Vegan Ramen Shop: Polish twist on Japanese cuisine
- Krowarzywa: Popular vegan burger chain
- Lokal Vegan Bistro: Traditional Polish cuisine, veganized
18. Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok, the City of Angels, is heavenly for vegans. Thanks to the influence of Buddhism and the abundance of fresh produce, finding vegan food in Bangkok is a piece of (egg-free) cake. The annual Vegetarian Festival in October sees many street food vendors go vegan, offering a unique opportunity to sample plant-based versions of Thai classics.
Vegan hotspots in Bangkok:
- Veganerie: Indulgent vegan desserts and comfort food
- May Veggie Home: Traditional Thai vegan cuisine
- Broccoli Revolution: Trendy vegan cafe and restaurant
17. Paris, France
Oui, you read that right! Paris, the city of cheese and butter, is embracing veganism with typical French flair. With around 3.7 vegan restaurants per 100,000 residents, Paris is proving that plant-based cuisine can be just as sophisticated as traditional French cooking. The annual Paris Vegan Festival showcases the crème de la crème of French vegan cuisine. Paris’s vegan scene is a perfect reflection of the city’s culinary excellence, offering plant-based versions of French classics alongside innovative international cuisine.
Must-visit vegan restaurants:
- Le Potager de Charlotte: Gourmet vegan dining
- VG Pâtisserie: Vegan French pastries
- Wild & The Moon: Vegan food and juice bar
16. Hamburg, Germany
Hamburg, Germany’s second-largest city, is making waves in the vegan world. With a surprising 55% growth in vegan businesses, Hamburg is quickly becoming a plant-based powerhouse. The city has over 56 all-vegan restaurants and over 99 vegan businesses, including a vegan hair salon and culinary school.
Top vegan picks:
- An Vegan House: Cozy atmosphere and delicious plant-based fare
- Happenpappen: Vegan comfort food and burgers
- Vincent Vegan: Popular vegan food truck turned restaurant chain
15. Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan, is beating strong with vegan options. Thanks to its Buddhist traditions and focus on seasonal ingredients, Kyoto offers a unique vegan experience. Many of Kyoto’s traditional temples offer shojin ryori, the vegan cuisine of Buddhist monks.
Kyoto’s vegan scene is a perfect blend of traditional Japanese flavors and innovative plant-based cuisine, offering a unique culinary experience for vegan travelers.
Vegan hotspots in Kyoto:
- Ain Soph Journey: Modern take on vegan Japanese cuisine
- Vegans Cafe and Restaurant: International vegan cuisine
- Mumokuteki Cafe: Cozy cafe with vegan options
14. Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver is not just about beautiful nature – it’s also a haven for vegans. With its focus on healthy living and sustainability, Vancouver offers a diverse and delicious vegan scene. The city hosts the annual Veg Expo, which is the largest vegan trade show in Canada.
Must-try vegan spots in Vancouver:
- MeeT in Gastown: Comfort food that satisfies vegans and non-vegans alike
- Virtuous Pie: Gourmet vegan pizza and ice cream
- The Acorn: Award-winning vegetarian restaurant with vegan options
13. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam isn’t just famous for its canals and bicycles – it’s also becoming a vegan hotspot. With around 4 vegan restaurants per 100,000 residents, the Dutch capital is blooming with plant-based options. Don’t miss the Amsterdam VegFest, usually held in November, which showcases the best of the city’s vegan offerings.
Top vegan pick in Amsterdam:
- Vegan Junk Food Bar: Indulgent plant-based fast food
12. Barcelona, Spain
¡Hola, Barcelona! This vibrant Catalan city is a feast for vegan eyes (and stomachs). With its innovative culinary scene and focus on fresh Mediterranean ingredients, Barcelona is a vegan paradise. The city has over 60 fully vegan restaurants, offering everything from plant-based tapas to gourmet dining experiences.
Vegan hotspots in Barcelona:
- Teresa Carles: Pioneer in plant-based dining in the city
- Flax & Kale: Flexitarian restaurant with many vegan options
- CatBar: Vegan pub offering vegan burgers and more
11. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, is a rising star in the vegan world. Thanks to its Buddhist influence and abundance of fresh produce, this Vietnamese city offers a unique and delicious vegan experience. During the annual Vu Lan Festival, many local restaurants go vegan, offering a perfect opportunity to sample plant-based Vietnamese classics.
Must-visit vegan restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City:
- Ngoc Tho: Veganized Vietnamese cuisine
- Hum Vegetarian: Upscale vegetarian and vegan dining
- Pho Chay Nhu: Vegan pho and other Vietnamese specialties
10. Mexico City, Mexico
¡Viva la vegan revolución! Mexico City is exploding with plant-based options, proving that Mexican cuisine can be just as delicious without animal products. The city has seen a 240% increase in vegan restaurants since 2013, making it a rising star in the vegan world.
Top vegan picks in Mexico City:
- Por Siempre Vegana TaquerÃa: Some of the best vegan tacos in the city
- Los Loosers: Vegan delivery service turned brick-and-mortar restaurant
- Gatorta: Vegan tortas and Mexican sandwiches
9. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon, with its sunny climate and focus on fresh ingredients, is a natural fit for vegan cuisine. The Portuguese capital is quickly becoming a plant-based powerhouse. Check out the annual VeggieWorld Lisbon for all things vegan.
Vegan hotspots in Lisbon:
- Ao 26 – Vegan Food Project: Innovative plant-based takes on Portuguese classics
- The Food Temple: Cozy vegan restaurant in historic Mouraria
- Veganeats: Vegan cafe and grocery store
8. Brighton, UK
Brighton, the UK’s hippest seaside town, is also one of its most vegan-friendly. With around 4.5 vegan restaurants per 100,000 residents, Brighton is a plant-based paradise by the sea. In fact, Brighton was named the UK’s most vegan-friendly city in 2023.
Must-try vegan spots in Brighton:
- Purezza: Award-winning vegan pizza
- Happy Maki: Vegan sushi burritos
- Terre à Terre: Vegetarian fine dining with vegan options
7. Portland, USA
Portland, keeping it weird and keeping it vegan! This Pacific Northwest city is a trailblazer in the vegan world, with an impressive 5.1 vegan restaurants per 100,000 residents. The annual VegFest is one of the largest vegan festivals in the US, attracting thousands of visitors.
Top vegan picks in Portland:
- Vtopia Restaurant & Cheese Shop: All-vegan cheese shop and deli
- Blossoming Lotus: Organic vegan cuisine
6. New York City, USA
As one of the top destinations in the USA, the Big Apple is taking a big bite out of the vegan scene. With its diverse population and innovative culinary landscape, NYC offers vegan options from every corner of the globe. The city has well over 600 vegan and vegetarian restaurants, which easily caters to every taste and budget.
Vegan hotspots in New York City:
- Avant Garden: Upscale vegan dining
- Screamer’s Pizzeria: New York-style vegan pizza
- Jajaja Plantas Mexicana: Trendy vegan Mexican cuisine
5. Los Angeles, USA
Los Angeles, the land of green smoothies and yoga, is unsurprisingly a vegan mecca. With around 5.5 vegan restaurants per 100,000 residents, LA is a plant-based paradise. This city also hosts the Vegan Street Fair, which is the largest vegan food festival in the world. Los Angeles’ vegan scene offers everything from plant-based fast food to high-end vegan dining experiences.
Must-visit vegan restaurants in Los Angeles:
- Crossroads Kitchen: Celebrity chef Tal Ronnen’s upscale vegan cuisine
- Ramen Hood: Vegan ramen in Grand Central Market
4. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai, the cultural capital of Northern Thailand, is also the unofficial vegan capital of Asia. With its abundance of fresh produce and Buddhist influence, Chiang Mai is a vegan dream. The city contains over 100 vegan and vegetarian restaurants, offering everything from traditional Thai dishes to international cuisine. As a top digital nomad destination, vegan remote workers will have plenty of options to enjoy in Chiang Mai.
Top vegan picks in Chiang Mai:
- Goodsouls Kitchen: Delicious vegan versions of Thai classics
- Reform Kafe: Peaceful garden setting with vegan Thai food
- Free Bird Cafe: Vegan cafe supporting local education initiatives
3. Berlin, Germany
Berlin continues to be a vegan powerhouse. With over 1,700 fully vegan and vegetarian establishments, Berlin has experienced a 21% growth in vegan businesses and a 34% increase in vegan-friendly listings over the years. The German government’s recent $41 million investment in promoting plant-based foods further cements Berlin’s status as a pivotal force in the global vegan movement.
Must-visit vegan spots in Berlin:
- Kopps: Gourmet vegan cuisine
- Vöner: Famous for its vegan döner kebab
- Brammibal’s Donuts: Artisanal vegan donuts
2. Phuket, Thailand
Phuket has the highest number of vegan restaurants per capita in the world. This Thai island has a perfect mix of traditional Thai flavors and innovative plant-based cuisine, making it a top destination for vegan travelers.
Vegan hotspots in Phuket:
- Atsumi Raw Cafe: Healthy, raw vegan dishes with a view
- Vegan Table: Fusion of Thai and Western vegan cuisine
- Raya Restaurant: Traditional Thai restaurant with many vegan options
1. London, UK
London reigns supreme as the world’s most vegan-friendly city. Boasting over 3,600 vegan and vegan-friendly listings in HappyCow’s database, London offers an unparalleled diversity of plant-based options. With 161 fully vegan restaurants and over 350 fully vegan establishments, London continues to be a global frontrunner in vegan consciousness and culinary innovation.
Top vegan picks in London:
- Temple of Seitan: Famous for vegan “chicken” dishes
- Mildreds: Long-standing vegetarian restaurant with many vegan options
- What The Pitta: Award-winning vegan döner kebabs
Conclusion
As we wrap up our culinary journey through the most vegan-friendly cities in the world, one thing becomes crystal clear: plant-based eating is no longer a niche lifestyle, but a global movement.
Each destination offers a unique window into how local cultures are embracing plant-based cuisine, reimagining traditional dishes, and creating entirely new culinary experiences.
So pack your bags, bring your appetite, and get ready to explore a world where vegan dining is not just an option—it’s a delicious adventure waiting to be savored. The future of food is green, global, and absolutely mouthwatering!
