Those following a vegan diet have probably adopted the habit of studying the menus before deciding where to go out to eat. Otherwise, you may be left strapped for choices and likely end up with chips and a salad whilst everyone else is enjoying their meal.
Thankfully, times are changing: many restaurants have expanded their range of dishes. A student city like Nottingham offers plenty of choices for vegans and people who want to go meat-free for their meal out. Whether breakfast, brunch, a quick grub or a nice dinner, we have compiled some recommendations that are a must to check out.
Breakfast, Brunch & Coffee
In its three branches across Nottinghamshire, Cartwheel Café offers sustainably sourced, freshly roasted coffee as well as brunch and lunch options. Both savoury and sweet options are covered, from a (slightly tweaked) full English to chia pudding. If you are going for brunch, they offer affordable cocktails from 10 am onwards to go with your meal.
If you are after a coffee, a pastry, and a cosy space to sit and do some work, 200° Coffee may be the place for you. Their locally roasted coffee and pastries, such as vegan cinnamon rolls, will make your studies much more bearable!
A favourite amongst vegans and non-vegans alike is the Prickly Pear. Located just minutes from the NTU City Campus, the Café offers an entirely vegan brunch, mains and a cocktail menu. With breakfast burritos, burgers and milkshakes, a lot of their food has a US-American touch. If you are after a midweek pick-me-up, there is a Taco Tuesday deal with a new special each week.
Lunch & Dinner
“The vegan joint that everyone is talking about” is how the 13th Element describes itself. Their fully plant-based menu is catered to burger lovers: from Buffalo Chick’n to Truffle Burgers, there is not much left to be desired. If you are less hungry or fancying something other than a burger, small plates like Mac & Cheeze or Korean Fried Chicken are also available. To accompany your meal, a range of beers, ciders, wines, and even milkshakes are listed on the menu too.
To fans of Indian cuisine, tamatanga may become a new favourite. With a unique, jungle-like interior, laid-back vibes and a large selection of vegan dishes, the small Midlands-based chain is rated highly amongst locals. If you cannot decide what strikes your fancy the most, try their Thali, which includes one or two smaller curries of your choice, as well as other (smaller) dishes from the menu. Perfect for sharing between two people! They also offer bottomless brunch for £30 pp.
If you are going on a date night or just treating yourself to a nice meal with friends, Pizzamisu is an excellent option for vegans and non-vegans alike. Their authentic Neapolitan pizza and desserts can be made vegan, with a selection of wines and cocktails to go with it. If you are feeling like trying something new, order their deep-fried pizza or try an affogato, an espresso served over vanilla ice cream.
Pubs
If you have ever walked through Hockley, you will have come past The Angel Microbrewery. Alongside their home-brewed Angel Ales, an extensive, varied menu is available. All small plates and most mains are (or can be made) vegan; the vegan option is often times even cheaper than the meat option. Most food is gluten-free as well, which makes the pub a safe choice for larger groups!
Perhaps one of the most extensive vegan pub menus in Nottingham is courtesy of Horn in Hand. From pizza over hot dogs to gyoza, there really is something for everyone. If you fancy a drink with it, they offer a wide range of gins and even a Gin Lab Experience in which you craft your perfect G&T after experimenting with different gins and mixers. Or, if you come in on a Sunday, a whole vegan roast could be waiting for you!
In recent years, Nottingham has experienced a significant shift in its food spectrum. This list of recommendations is only the tip of the iceberg: many restaurants have taken big steps toward including plant-based dishes on their menu. Especially with students from around the world coming into the city, its restaurants and pubs are going with the time and now offer a range of international food, catered to both vegans and non-vegans. In that sense: dig in and enjoy!
Lead Image Credit by Ella Olsson on Unsplash