Our theme for January is food so here are 8 of Edinburgh's best places to eat sustainably. In this article sustainability has been mainly defined based on vegan/vegetarian options. In the UK, the average vegan diet has a carbon footprint that is 60% lighter than the average heavy meat diet, showing the clear impact that diet has on the planet. Waste and transport emissions have also been taken into account. For example, a restaurant can be defined as sustainable if it has measures in place to reduce waste and sources or produces its food locally.
Seeds for the Soul
Seed for the Soul is a 100% vegan café located in Bruntsfield. Their mission is to show people that vegan food 'is not just grass' but so much more. The main menu offers a range of wraps, bagels, burgers and bowls. Each 'bowl' is packed with noodles and veggies plus falafel, seitan or tofu depending on your choice. For dessert, there is a selection of incredible cakes available. In terms of waste, all takeaway boxes, bags, cups, cutlery and napkins are 100% biodegradable. Furthermore, all waste is composted or recycled daily.
Hula Juice
Edinburgh's first juice bar (established in 2007) has 2 locations to choose from - one in Grassmarket and one in Fountainbridge. A wide range of food and drinks are served with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options available. From classic brunch to poké bowls to their staple açai bowls - and of course plenty of juice, smoothies and milkshakes. Hula Juice is a plastic free zone and all food is locally sourced, including coffee roasted right here in Edinburgh!
Beetroot Sauvage
Vegan café and yoga studio Beetroot Sauvage can be found in Newington offering meals made from fresh ingredients, cooked 100% from scratch. Their coffee is blended and roasted by the Source Coffee Co. in Edinburgh and they even make their own cheese! Beetroot Sauvage also uses a local tea blender which provides a selection of loose leaf tea. Their menu offers all day brunch, warming mains such as soup and chilli, or something light like sandwiches and salad.
Plant Bae / Grams
Sadly the lovely Plant Bae is closed and won't be reopening for the time being, however their website points to sister café Grams which has a wide selection of vegan meals and treats. Grams is located in Stockbridge and promotes eating better, not less. What started off with cakes has now progressed into a fully functional café with 'healthy fast food', brunch, smoothies and shakes.
Lucky Pig @ Paradise Palms
Lucky Pig can be found inside Paradise Palms, a bar just off Bristo Square. This award winning American inspired diner offers vegetarian and vegan fast food such as burgers, hot dogs and buffalo cauliflower wings. Paradise Palms Records is run from an office in the same building and they have a small shop selling vinyls, zines, books, clothes and more from local artists.
Sora Lella
Sora Lella is the first 100% roman vegan restaurant in Edinburgh. This family ran business in Tollcross recreates classic Italian dishes such as carbonara with vegan ingredients, all whilst preserving the authentic flavours. Pizza, pasta and focacce are all available, as well as a gluten free menu! For dessert there is a choice of tiramisu, cheesecake, sorbet and much more.
Naked Bakery
For something especially sweet head over to New Town where Naked Bakery serves 100% vegan baked goods, most of which have gluten free-versions available. On their website they state that 'no matter your allergies, intolerances or diet choice, you should not miss out when it comes to treating yourself'. Everything they produce is made in a vegan kitchen, by vegans - from donuts, to cupcakes, to macarons.
Missy's Vegan Cupcakes
This all-vegan business features at Edinburgh market at Grassmarket and Leith alongside its permanent shop on Buccleuch street, offering cupcakes, tray bakes and cheesecake among others. They also serve cold savoury food and toasties, as well as locally produced artisan roast coffee. Additionally, their products are served at Hula Juice!
All photos and information were sourced from the respective businesses' websites and/or Facebook pages. All credit and copyright belongs to them.