Local Food Economy
By Pia Werzinger
Bristol-based Viva! is the UK’s leading vegan charity. To mark World Vegan Month, Viva!’s Pia Werzinger writes the latest Bristol Good Food 2030 story summing up some of her favourite places to eat in the city.
Christmas is a time for celebration and indulgence: what better way to do so than by enjoying a yummy vegan feast in the vibrant city of Bristol?
As the demand for vegan dining options continues to rise, Bristol’s culinary scene has responded with an array of fantastic plant-based and vegan-friendly restaurants.
Let’s explore some of the best vegan-friendly restaurants in Bristol to savour a memorable Christmas meal!
Cafe Kino, located in the heart of Bristol, is a renowned vegan hub. Their annual Christmas specials boast a mix of traditional and innovative dishes, such as classics like nut roast and mushroom wellington, alongside more creative mains like stuffed squash and spiced lentil pie. The relaxed atmosphere and imaginative offerings make Café Kino a fantastic and cosy choice for a festive meal.
Flow Bristol is an extremely vegan-friendly (and entirely vegetarian) eatery that takes its inspiration from seasonal ingredients, making it an ideal spot for a Christmas tapas-style meal. Dishes include herb dumplings with wild mushrooms, braised shiitake and crispy moss, black rice arancini with squash katsu and black garlic aioli, or celeriac latkes with roast sprouts, tahini, hazelnut and kohlrabi. Be sure to also explore their dessert options, which are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.
For those craving a taste of something different, Vx Bristol is the place to go. Specialising in vegan fast food, they offer a unique twist on festive classics with items such as their vegan faux gras pâté and a seitan roast. It’s a perfect spot for those who want to enjoy a laid-back, casual Christmas meal with a quirky twist.
Located just outside of Bristol in neighbouring Bath and entirely vegan, The Green Rocket Café is a long-standing favourite among locals and visitors alike. Their Christmas menu tends to offer a delightful selection of plant-based dishes, from hearty nut roasts to scrumptious stuffed peppers. Don’t forget to indulge in their mouthwatering vegan desserts and seasonal cocktails.
Beets n Roots is known for its holistic approach to plant-based cuisine, offering dishes that nourish both body and soul. Their options around Christmas time usually feature a range of flavourful dishes, including hearty seitan roasts and a variety of delicious side dishes. With a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, it’s a great choice for a playful Christmas celebration full of good vibes.
This year, we have even more reason to be excited as Viva! has launched a new cookbook called Everyone Can Cook Vegan. With more than 100 recipes suitable for all skill levels, it’s a game-changer for those looking to explore the joys of plant-based cooking! Available from Viva!’s Gifts for Life Shop now.
Crafted by Viva!’s Vegan Recipe Club, the publication showcases a diverse selection of delectable dishes from protein-rich plates such as Spinach and Vegan Ricotta Cannelloni, Tofu Katsu Curry and Spicy Protein Burritos, to tried-and-tested classics like Mac and Cheese, Moussaka, Broccoli and Tomato Quiche and Vegan Chicken Tikka Masala. Plus dessert recipes are in bountiful supply.
Bristol’s plant-based dining scene is flourishing, making it an excellent destination for a memorable Christmas meal. From traditional holiday favourites to innovative creations, these restaurants offer a wide range of options to suit every palate.
So, this holiday season, gather your loved ones, and indulge in the delicious and exciting world of plant-based cuisine in Bristol, where good food and good company come together to celebrate the season in perfect harmony.
Pia Werzinger is the Digital Media Manager at Viva!’s Vegan Recipe Club, a vegan for more than 10 years, and she is also passionate about all things vegan food and cooking! Find exciting new vegan recipes, cookery tips, and food and lifestyle news over on Vegan Recipe Club’s social channels at Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok.
So, what change do you want to see happen that will transform food in Bristol by 2030? Do you already have an idea for how Bristol can make this happen? Join the conversation now.
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