Plant-based eating has come on in leaps and bounds in recent years, with creative vegan options available on just about every menu.
But, with so much variety, where to begin? We asked Kimia Etemadi, Manchester resident and Veganuary participant, to test out the best of the best for anyone thinking of taking part in Veganuary.
Having been vegetarian since she was a teenager, Kimia took part in Veganuary 2024 and stuck with it. She said she loves being vegan: more energy, better health, and a clearer conscience, too!
These are her top picks to explore in January and beyond.
1. Bhaji-Pala (Gatley)
Bhaji-Pala is a Marathi word, which roughly translates to mean ‘green veggies and herbs’ which are at the heart of western Indian vegetarian cooking. And here, this award-winning team says it aims to create the authentic tastes, textures and ingredients of the region to do it all vegan.
I love Bhaji-Pala for two reasons: one, they make such flavourful and varied dishes that I don’t see anywhere else. And two, I live very close to it!
2. Purezza (Northern Quarter)
Pizza joints have taken over the world, and Purezza is one of the best. This fully vegan restaurant in the Northern Quarter makes really tasty pizzas with bold, unique flavours.
They use a wood-fired oven for that crispy crust and smoky flavour, and cheese lovers need not worry about missing out – they make a fantastic melty vegan cheese and even offer a four cheese pizza.
My personal favourite is their black truffle pizza though I have to admit that I really love them all.
3. Lotus (Withington)
You have to try this vegan Chinese restaurant in Withington! It’s incredible how tasty their food is considering they don’t use garlic, onions or shallots because of their Buddhist beliefs, but honestly, it’s the best Chinese food ever!
They have all the favourites like salt and pepper chilli squid, crispy won ton, dim sum, sesame toast, pancake wraps and even a barbecue pork dish that has caused no harm to pigs. Amazing!
4. Bundobust (Oxford Road and Northern Quarter)
Bundobust, which has two restaurants in Manchester, in the Northern Quarter and on Oxford Road, is such a great place for Indian food. These fully vegetarian eateries are very relaxed and offer lots of vegan options.
Who could resist their raghda pethis, where Northern England meets India: potato cakes with spiced mushy peas, tomato, onion and tamarind chutney? Not me!
5. The Allotment (City Centre)
Based in Manchester city centre, The Allotment serves fresh, local and seasonal vegetarian and vegan dishes.
They offer soups, sandwiches and pizza but you can also build your own tapas selection from options like cauliflower wings, bruschetta, Tuscan butterbeans and miso butter roast cabbage. My mouth is watering just thinking about it.
The Allotment also offer 30% off food during Veganuary!
If Kimia’s recommendations have left you feeling hungry, explore the best vegan dining out options in Chester, Exeter and London too.
