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Whether you’re a long-term vegan or vegetarian or just embracing more meat-free meals in your diet, eating green is more accessible than ever, thanks to the diverse range of restaurants dedicated to plant-based food. So, if you're challenging yourself to eat a plant-based diet for World Vegan Month in November, taking on Veganuary as a New Year’s resolution, or simply looking to try something new, discover these delicious vegan and veggie restaurants in the South West.
The best vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Bournemouth
If you’re spending 48 hours in Bournemouth, these are the best plant-based eateries the city has to offer. From casual brunch spots to evenings out with friends, you’re guaranteed to find delicious vegan and vegetarian food at these locations.
Mad Cucumber
madcucumber.com
Mad Cucumber is a 100% vegan restaurant. It serves a diverse seasonal menu using locally sourced organic ingredients.
The restaurant’s health-conscious menu has brunch and lunch options, including burgers, sandwiches and salads. Why not wash it all down with a fruit smoothie from the bar? Or submit to your cravings with one of their handmade sweet treats? The Mad Cucumber offers a range of homemade cakes, perfect for celebrations.
Address: 7 The Triangle, Bournemouth BH2 5RY
How to get there: Mad Cucumber is a 15-minute bus journey from Bournemouth station. Find Stand 5 and hop on the M1 bus towards Poole. Get off six stops later at Poole Hill. Mad Cucumber is a minute's walk from there.
Price range: £-££
Twelve Eatery
twelveeatery.com
Twelve Eatery is ranked amongst the best vegan restaurants in the world, so you won’t want to miss it! Their ethos aims to provide healthy, environmentally friendly food that protects the planet and animal welfare. It’s also plastic-free, and to reduce waste, everything is recyclable or reusable. Enjoy their delicious plant-based menu in a friendly setting, including King Oyster ‘scallops’, ‘rib-eye’ steak, tempeh schnitzel and teriyaki tofu.
Address: 12 The Triangle, Bournemouth BH2 5RY
How to get there: The closest station to Twelve Eatery is Bournemouth. From there, it’s a 15-minute bus ride to Poole Hill on the M1 bus.
Price range: £-££
Cocoloco
cocolocofood.co.uk
COCOLOCO serves Latin American-inspired vegan food in a relaxed atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for lunch or dinner. Its menu includes burritos, salads, smaller sharing plates and larger dishes, offering a range of fresh flavours. Try the corn empanadas, cassava dumplings and the tajadas – layered plantain slices topped with vegan cheese and spring onion.
Address: 706 Christchurch Road, Boscombe, Bournemouth BH7 6BY
How to get there: Take the number 22 bus from Bournemouth station (Stop 6) to Ashley Road – an 18-minute journey. The restaurant is a 1-minute walk from there.
Price range: £
The best vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Southampton
Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian café to enjoy a full English or hoping to sample some vegan Indian food, Southampton’s culinary scene has plenty to offer. Discover our favourite spots here to plan your perfect 48 hours in Southampton.
Café Thrive
cafethrive.co.uk
Café Thrive is a must-visit for foodies and one of the best vegan restaurants in Southampton. Head over before midday to try a meat-free full English or breakfast bun. Its all-day menu features burgers, hotdogs, sandwiches, wraps and customisable salad bowls. This quaint café is the ideal place to enjoy delicious vegan food in a relaxed atmosphere. Plus, it’s dog-friendly, so treat your pooch to a puppuccino while you’re there!
Address: 18 Hanover Buildings, Southampton SO14 1JX
How to get there: Café Thrive is at the foot of Houndwell Park, a 15-minute walk from Southampton Central. Don’t fancy the walk? Hop on the number 18 or 19 bus from Central Station (Stop SA), getting off 7 minutes later at Vincent’s Walk (Stop CK). It’s a short stroll from there.
Price range: £
Baboo Ji Vegetarian Kitchen
babooji.co.uk
There’s no shortage of great vegetarian restaurants in Southampton, but Baboo Ji Vegetarian Kitchen is a stand-out location. Serving authentic Indian dishes with a modern twist, the restaurant uses locally sourced supplies and sustainable products.
Its mouthwatering menu has all the usual suspects alongside unique fusion dishes like spiced cauliflower ‘wings’ and poppadom nachos. Share a speciality social plate with a friend – choose from two curries, two sides, a dal, rice and naan. Excellent value for money and clean plates all round!
Address: 273 Portswood Rd, Portswood, Southampton SO17 2LD
How to get there: Baboo Ji is a 7-minute walk from St Denys station.
Price range: £
Késarum
kesarum.co.uk
For an upscale dining experience, head to Késarum. This modern plant-based bistro brings authentic Northern Indian and Himalayan flavours to your plate using contemporary cooking methods. They serve creative takes on carnivore classics, so even your meat-eating friends will love it! Dishes are beautifully presented, and the upcycled church altar bar offers a range of beverages, including vegan cocktails.
Address: 25 High Street, QE2 Mile, Southampton SO14 2DF
How to get there: Hop on the number 9 bus from Southampton Central (Stop SD). Ride three stops, getting off at WestQuay (Stop BP). It’s a short 5-minute walk from there.
Price range: ££-£££
The best vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Portsmouth
Mangosteen
mangosteensouthsea.co.uk
Offering a range of vegan and vegetarian dishes inspired by different cuisines, there’s something for everyone at Mangosteen in Southsea. Head here to catch up with friends over a cocktail or two and try vegan twists on familiar favourites, like katsu curry and mushroom tagliatelle. The restaurant’s chic décor matches the elegant plating, and its warm ambience ensures a delightful experience.
Address: 91 Palmerston Rd, Southsea, Portsmouth, Southsea PO5 3PR
How to get there: Portsmouth Harbour is the closest station to Mangosteen. Once there, find Stop M and jump on the number 23 bus. Ride 7 minutes to Southsea Shops (Stop A) and walk for 2 minutes to Mangosteen.
Price range: ££
Hunter Gatherer
huntergatherer.coffee
Hunter Gatherer is another Southsea spot worth the journey. Its brunch menu is 100% plant-based and includes classics with a veggie twist, like the Mexican-inspired breakfast wrap, tempeh ‘bacon’ bagel and smashed avocado on sourdough. If you still have space after all that, their homemade sweet treats pair perfectly with a speciality coffee.
Address: 249 Albert Rd, Southsea, Portsmouth, Southsea PO4 0JR
How to get there: The closest station to Hunter Gatherer is Portsmouth & Southsea station. From there, find Civic Offices (Stop M) and hop on the number 2 bus towards Paulsgrove. Get off 10 stops later at Festing Road, directly opposite your destination.
Price range: £
Plan your foodie tour of the South West with SWR
Ready to visit some of the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants in the South West? Get cheap train tickets to Bournemouth, Southampton and Portsmouth when booking in advance with South Western Railway.
If you need extra flexibility on return journeys, discover our Sunday Out tickets and Semi Flex Return tickets. Our GroupSave tickets are an excellent option when travelling with family and friends, and don’t forget to check out Railcards and discounts for even greater savings.
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