You might be astonished to learn that the area around Cape Town City alone has more than 10 completely vegan restaurants! More South African consumers are looking for food that is both healthier and more sustainable. But will full vegan restaurants survive in a meat consuming country? And are the numbers enough to provide these restaurants with a sustainable income? South Africa is generally considered to be a meat-eating country. Meat, particularly beef, lamb, and poultry, is a staple in South African cuisine. Traditional dishes such as boerewors (spiced sausage), biltong (cured meat), and braai (barbecue) are commonly enjoyed. However, especially in urban areas, dietary preferences and choices are now more diversified, including vegetarian and vegan options.
Vegans follow a plant-based diet and abstain from consuming any animal-derived products, such as such as dairy and eggs. Their extensive dietary options include various fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Vegans often consume vibrant salads filled with leafy greens, colorful vegetables, and a variety of fruits. Staples in their diet include whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, and oats, which provide essential nutrients and energy. Legumes such as lentils, chickpeas, and black beans are also a crucial part of their meals as they offer a rich source of protein. Vegans incorporate a wide range of nuts and seeds like almonds, chia seeds, and flax seeds, which supply healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals. They use plant-based milk alternatives like almond, soy, or oat milk, which are used in cereals, coffee, and baking recipes.
Plant-based meat and dairy substitutes may now successfully mimic the flavour and texture of the animal products they replace, thanks to advancements in food technology. On the market, there are plant-based meat substitutes for chicken, beef, pork, and even fish. Plant-based proteins like those found in pea, hemp, soy, or wheat are frequently used to create plant-based meat.
Is PLANT-BASED MEAT in particular, a healthier option than real meat? Disadvantages of plant-based meat is that it is often highly processed (in general, plant-based meats are more highly processed than real meat). Most plant-based meats are high in sodium and contains a significant amount of salt, some are high in saturated fat (coconut and palm oil are sources of saturated fat), and may contain added sugars, artificial colouring and controversial additives (like bulking agents and ingredients to enhance flavour).
Fully Vegan Restaurants & Markets in Cape Town
Nourish’d Restaurant:
Selection of tasty juices, smoothies, breakfasts and gourmet sandwiches (and a large parking lot right next door).
Kloof Str & Observatory.
Contact: 063 648 1040 or 066 336 3944, info@nourishd.co.za
Address: Corner Kloof and Hof Street, Gardens; 186 Lower Main Road, Observatory, Cape Town
The Sunshine Food Co Café:
Delicious, healthy vegan burgers, patties, wraps, smoothies and juices.
Contact: 081 825 0925, thesunshinefoodco@gmail.com
Address: Corner Glengarriff and Main Roads, Three Anchor Bay.
Plant Gourmet Vegan Restaurant:
Healthy burgers, pasta, wraps, crepes. Caters for those with food allergies and intolerances.
Contact :072 521 9252, info@plant.co.za
Address: 8 Buiten Street, cnr Loop Street, Cape Town.
Vegan Test Kitchen – Weekly Pop-Up Market:
Affordable plant-based products – vegan croissants, chia pudding, protein-packed smoothies, gourmet pies, and much more.
Contact: 027 79 399 3520, info@veganprotein.co.za
Address: The Bay Harbour Market or Vegan Goods Market.
For The Sweet Tooth:
Honest Chocolate Café, with a Vegan Menu.
Sell organic cacao treats, wholesome cakes, pastries and tarts. All chocolate slabs and truffles are 100% vegan, and many of the chocolate baked goodies are vegan, too.
Contact: 076 765 8306, cafe@honestchocolate.co.za
Address: 64A Wale Street, Cape Town
Dolce Bakery, with Vegan Sweet Treats
Range of vegan sweet treats such as peanut-butter pie, chocolate mousse cupcakes, apple crumble and more.
Contact: 027 21 447 2532, sweets@dolcebakery.co.za
Address: 239C Lower Main Road, Observatory, Cape Town
