The Best Vegetarian Vegan Restaurants In Belfast

Ireland has yet to embrace a meat-free lifestyle en masse, probably because of the country’s agricultural heritage. However, that’s not to say that veg*ns need to be left out. More and more people in Northern Ireland are realising the benefits of a plant-based diet, and especially in Belfast, there are plenty of cruelty-free options. Whether you’re a dedicated vegan, a vegetarian food lover, or simply curious about incorporating more plant-based meals into your diet, Belfast has something to offer everyone. Here’s a list of our favourites.

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Umi Falafel

Umi Falafel is a small chain of restaurants focused on Middle Eastern cuisine, with a particular specialty in — you guessed it — falafel. Umi is the Arabic word for mother, bringing home-cooked food to mind. Umi’s falafel are cooked on demand instead of prepared in bulk, so you can always be sure your meal is fresh. Umi’s menu is entirely vegetarian and largely vegan, so there’s plenty of variety. Particular favourites include the Palestinian falafel pita and Umi’s baba ghanoush.

387

387 is a newer cafe in Belfast, and specialises specifically in vegan coffee. Their selection of non-dairy milks is impressive, and their coffee is even more so. Vegan traybakes and cakes are also on offer, and we recommend the fifteens, a Northern Irish favourite filled with (gelatine-free) marshmallows. 387 also hosts evening events on a fairly regular basis, with music and board game nights complementing the already excellent venue.

Archana

Any veggie knows that Indian food can be a godsend for meat-free cuisine. Archana has been going strong since 1985, and was one of Northern Ireland’s first Indian restaurants. The two-floor venue has an extensive vegetarian menu and several vegan dishes. With a focus on fresh produce and fine ingredients, Archana is undoubtedly one of the best Indian restaurants in Belfast.

Distric Belfast

Another coffee house, District have been making a name for themselves as one of the trendiest cafes in Belfast. Although they do serve meat dishes, we suspect there must be a veggie on staff, as their vegetarian and vegan offerings are surprisingly strong. The menu changes regularly basis, but there is always at least one vegan sandwich, soup, and curry, as well as a selection of salads and a range of vegan baked goods.

The Nutmag

A cozy vegetarian restaurant located in Belfast’s University Quarter, The Nutmeg offers a delightful menu featuring globally inspired dishes. With an emphasis on fresh ingredients and creative flavor combinations, The Nutmeg is a go-to spot for vegetarian and vegan comfort food.

About the author

Niall McGrade

A freelance writer and student, Niall grew up in rural Co Tyrone and has since relocated to Belfast to study. Undertaking a BA in English and Creative Writing, he hangs around the library and the Seamus Heaney Centre For Poetry even when he doesn't strictly need to. His work has been published in newspapers, online, in anthologies, and he has won some small writing awards you're unlikely to have heard of. His likes include, music, film, pi?a coladas, and getting caught in the rain.