Nottingham is a massive hub for students and their social lives, hence 20-somethings being the number one demographic of customers at restaurants. It is interesting to see how food places navigate a generation of students six-times more likely to try being vegetarian than their parents. The food industry has had to make changes, creating alternatives for their menus and most popular products, or risk alienating their target market. Even with this shift though, it can be hard to find places that cater to both veggie and meat-eating friendship groups. I have compiled a list of the top 5 vegetarian hotspots in Nottingham to check out!
No 5: The Filthy Vegan, Lenton
The staff and chefs behind The Filthy Vegan are super knowledgeable about their craft and passionate to make vegan food accessible and desirable to pescatarians and meat-eaters too. Health conscious and situated right in the heart of student-heavy Lenton, you can see why it is a favourite. The only downside to this establishment is that they are takeout-only, so you cannot plan a lunch or dinner outing here, but you can enjoy their food at home.
Image: Nottingham Post
No 4: The Crocus Café, Lenton
The most wholesome community café I’ve had the pleasure to visit. Volunteer-led, it caters to a variety of customers but focuses mostly on delicious locally-sourced vegan and vegetarian meals. Enjoy amazing fairtrade lunches and dinners a stone’s throw from student accommodation in Lenton. By far though, the most amazing feature of this café is its ethos surrounding its ‘suspended meals’ and ‘pending coffee’ program where you can purchase extra items which someone in need can pick up for free! Despite only being open from Wednesday to Sunday, they host bring-your-own-booze restaurant nights and other events that you can enjoy with your friends.
No 3: Avo Cafe, Lenton
My favourite place to grab a coffee and study if I fancy a change of scenery from campus or my Uni house! Immediately next to the main bus stop from Lenton to University Park Campus, this is a fantastic place to meet after a day of lectures or have a lazy lunch surrounded by its leafy décor. Build your own breakfast or take your pick from their fresh pastries and healthy alternatives to fast food. They are open seven days a week and offer a food delivery service with 100% bio-degradable packaging.
No 2: Zaap Thai, off Market Square
Fancy something closer to town? Zaap is located in the centre of Nottingham but once you’re inside you will feel instantly transported to Thailand; the booths resemble Tuk Tuks and the Maeklong Railway market. Serving authentic Thai street food, there is an abundance of vegetarian options and many affordable meat alternatives too! The atmosphere here is brilliant and the service is incredible, a perfect place for date night or a fun meal with friends.
No 1: Mowgli, Hockley
Another great option for authentic international street food in the heart of Nottingham. You can choose from an extensive menu of small plates or platters, but I would really recommend the house specials. Despite being just as affordable as other venues on this list, Mowgli takes top spot because the aesthetic of the restaurant feels luxury and it boasts multiple floors of seating. A fabulous spot to take your family to dinner if you really want to show off Nottingham. And of course, who doesn’t want to sit on a swing surrounded by fairy lights while you’re enjoying amazing food and cocktails?
You do not want to miss out on all the gorgeous food in these five lesser-known cafes and restaurants. Meat-eater or vegetarian, grab your friends and family and give them a try!
First published on: Verified Veggie Hotspots in Nottingham (groubook.co.uk)
