Veganism is the new buzzword in the market. Not to be confused with vegetarian food, vegan food does away with any kind of animal based products to encourage a healthier and cruelty free diet. Fad, fashion or fact, veganism is here to stay and contrary to popular belief it is much more than just fruits and vegetables. Try these 5 vegan restaurants from all over India to a get a true taste of a vegan diet.
Carrots, Bengaluru
The first ever vegan restaurant in India, Carrots in Bengaluru serves up an eclectic mix of vegan food. Don’t be fooled by its name, it is much more than just vegetables. Explore their wide menu of vegan options which includes burgers and wraps with mock meat stuffing and other traditional Indian dishes. They also offer gluten free dishes and are extremely mindful of your allergies as well. For the calorie conscious they also have health indicators next to each dish. They use oil free cooking techniques, including baking, steaming and dry roasting.
Divine nature, Dharamshala
Tucked away in a corner in Dharamshala and enveloped by the Himalayas, the Divine Nature restaurant is the perfect nook to fulfil all your vegan fantasies. Offering a vegan buffet and many other gluten free and vegetarian options, Divine Nature is a health buff’s paradise. Their nettle soup, green crepes and vegan lassi are a hit amongst customers. The family run restaurant also makes its own cheese.
Just Be, Bengaluru
Who said healthy food has to be boring? Just Be Resto café serves up a wide menu of delicious dishes that can change the minds of many non-vegetarians. With several oil-free, dairy free and sugar free options, Just Be bakes its own bread and uses only plant based products in their dishes including milk and cheese. Their dips and sauces are made in-house as well. Just Be believes in a zero waste policy and composts all kitchen waste and uses eco-friendly packaging. They also host classes on how to cook your own healthy vegan meals along with many vegan recipes on their website.
Greenr Café, Delhi
In a one of its kind initiative, the Greenr Café has started using plant based meats which are a closer replacement of animal meat. Using textured proteins derived only from plants, with a combination of vegetables, nuts and seeds, the café has transitioned from more traditional alternatives such as tofu to newer and more innovative ones. The Greenr Café completely shuns the idea of processed food which contains preservatives and chemicals and has moved onto to healthier options. By using plant based foods such as Pea Pro, Bean Pro, Tofu Amarnath, Hemproot and Sweet Potato, the café attempts to completely switch out nutrients and textures of animal meat with these which are equally nutritious.
Vibe Liquiteria, Mumbai
State of the art blenders adorn the corners of this tiny smoothie shop, churning out delicious and healthy concoctions every minute. The Vibe Liquiteria is a haven for gym buffs who do not want to miss out on their daily protein shake. Using sugar free and dairy free ingredients these smoothies might be the healthiest drinks you’ve ever had. With delicious and fresh salads to accompany the smoothies, the shop offers only vegan options. With the likes of tofu, broccoli and wasabi thrown in the mix these salads are absolutely *chef’s kiss*.