Vegan food is no longer reserved for those who lead an animal-product free lifestyle. In fact, itās become so accessible, itās more of a cuisine in itself. From pizzas that lose literally no flavour for their lack of cheese, to burgers that could mistake even the biggest meat-eaters among us, weāve rounded up the very best vegan spots in Manchester to try.
1. The Allotment
Tucked away behind Exchange Square, The Allotment offers vegan food with a difference. Serving up fresh dishes using the best of the seasonās harvest and local, sustainable growers wherever possible, not only does the food taste good but it also does good for the planet too. The menu features small plates like cauliflower wings, miso maple mushrooms and satay skewers as well as larger dishes taking influences from across the globe like tofu laksa, jackfruit tacos and sundried tomato risotto all brimming with fresh, seasonal produce. The Allotment was also voted one of the best vegan restaurants in the world this year, so you need to try it for yourself.
šThe Allotment, 1-3 Cathedral Gates, M3 1SW.
2. Vegan Shack
Starting life as a result of two new vegans looking to make meat-free grub as tasty as possible, Vegan ShackĀ has been going since 2019 ā and itās been a bit of a gamechanger for Mancs looking for plant-based fast food. Putting their own spin on naughty takeaways such as kebabs and burgers ā the takeaway uses plant-based ingredients, namely soya and seitan, to capture the flavours both current and former meat-eaters already know and love.
šVegan Shack, 184 Rochdale Road, Collyhurst, M40 7RA.
3. Bundobust
Much-loved, fully veggie Indo Chinese spot Bundobust may not be 100% vegan, what with delicious options of paneer and plenty of yoghurt, but there are plenty of vegan options on the menu to give any meat version a run for its money. The likes of Kachumber Sambharo, Mung Bean Chatpata and Tarka Dhal & Rice are just some of the mouthwatering options available, plus plenty of gluten free treats and, of course, beer brewed on the premises at Bundobust Brewery.
š Bundobust, 61, 69 Oxford St, Manchester M1 6EQ | 61 Piccadilly, Manchester M1 2AG.
4. Purezza
Becoming an instant hit just a few months into taking over the former Dough site in the Northern Quarter, Purezza serves up an all-vegan menu, with tons of tasty creations to enjoy. Designed in their very own kitchen lab, Purezza has created an array of āmeatyā vegan toppings for their pizzas, including plant-based Nāduja, pulled pork and so much more.
šPurezza, 75-77 High St, M4 1FS.
5. Herbivorous
Starting out with a pop-up at Hatch (RIP) then expanding to Withington, Herbivorous makes exciting, modern vegan comfort food thatās better for you and better for the planet. The vegan restaurant in Manchester has developed its own unique recipes over the years after being inspired by the vegan food scene whilst on a road trip in the USA. From Philly Cheesesteak sandwiches and loaded fries to buffalo wings and creole crab fritters (all amazingly vegan), Herbivorous offers a feast for the eyes and stomach.
šHerbivorous, 445 Wilmslow Road, Withington, M20 4AN.
6. Desert Island Dumplings
Known for theirĀ unconventional dumplings made with a plant-based twist, Desert Island Dumplings has created some seriously delicious fusion flavours, ranging from āCheezburgerā, Smokey āCheezā Pizza, Hoisin Mock Duck, Salt and Pepper āChiknā and Lobster. The tasty treats are served alongside an array of sides, including chips with ācheezā and gravy, salt and pepper hashbrowns and ādrunkā Teriyaki noodles, as well as delicious dessert dumplings stuffed with lemon drizzle and Lotus banoffee.
šDesert Island Dumplings, Third floor, Afflecks, 52 Church St, Manchester M4 1PW.
7. Wholesome Junkies
After a hiatus in Manchester, beloved vegan spot Wholesome Junkies has made a welcome return to the city, this time setting up shop inside pioneering alcohol-free bar Hinterland, and with a reduced menu at Piccadilly Central Bar and Kitchen. Serving all the classics it was known for back in the day, you can pick up everything from burgers, skewers and tots to ramen, gyoza and nourishing grain bowls from the brand new Wholesome Junkies spots, all vegan, and all delicious.
š Wholesome Junkies, Hinterland, Basement, 16-20 Turner St, Manchester M4 1DZ | Piccadilly Central, 38 London Rd, Manchester M1 2PF.
8. Bondi Bowls
Although not advertised as a vegan spot, Manchesterās newest healthy fast food joint straight outta Australia, Bondi Bowls, can actually be completely vegan if you so choose. All of the bowls available including the Buddha Bowl, Caesar Bowl and Indian Bowl are made up of vegan ingredients, and can be requested without sauces such as the mango yoghurt dressing and chipotle mayo. Even the sweet bowls, such as the Acai Bowl, are vegan and sound completely yummy, full of fruity and granola goodness. All bowls can be added to with extras of meat, vegan toppings of avocado or tofu, and sweetness from peanut or almond butter ā the choice is yours. How nutritious and delicious!
šBondi Bowls, Kampus, 57 Chorlton Street, M1 3FY.