Welcome to Kent. Step into the heart of England's history and culture right here in the Garden of England. With its stunning coastline, historic castles, and picturesque villages, Kent offers a unique blend of the old and the new. Explore the White Cliffs of Dover, wander through the ancient ruins of Canterbury Cathedral, relax on the sandy shores of Margate or indulge in a spot of shopping in the charming town of Rye. From breathtaking landscapes to world-class art and cuisine, Kent has something for everyone. And that includes many wonderful vegan eateries! Whether you're a dedicated vegan or just dipping your toe into the plant-based world of food, Kent is the perfect place to treat your tastebuds to a truly fantastic meal this World Vegan Day.
The benefits of eating less meat and dairy is hard to ignore. If everyone in the world were to go vegan, according to The Vegan Society, we could save 8 million human lives by 2050, slash greenhouse gas emissions from farming by two-thirds, and save trillions in healthcare costs and climate damage. World vegan day is all about celebrating the positive impacts of veganism, as well as enjoying some delicious food along the way! Keep reading to see our run-down of the best plant-powered restaurants, cafes, bakeries and eateries in our home county of Kent.
Sevenoaks
Life on High, TN13 1XE
Life on High is a speciality coffee and pro-plant cafe with a wholesome and sustainable menu in Sevenoaks. Their menu is filled with nutritious plant-based dishes, as well as some non-vegan add ons. They champion in-season, organic and locally grown produce. They also have a community board allowing customers a chance to ‘pay it forward’ offering free coffees for anyone to come in and use, a coffee that someone in the community might not otherwise be able to afford.
Number Eight, TN13 1AJ
Modern European and British flavours are the core of the dishes at Number Eight, focused on luxury artisan products found locally and further afield, using suppliers that Stuart and the team have built up great respect and relationships with over many years. Their menu changes seasonally, with new dishes being added every week. Their dedicated vegan menu always features a creative choice of small plates, starters, mains, sides and desserts, never feeling like an afterthought.
Deckhouse, TN13 1AS
Deckhouse are an independent bar and restaurant group inspired by the spirit, freedom and escapism we find in our amazing coastline and beaches. The spot for coffee, food, wine and escapism, in the heart of Sevenoaks. Escape the everyday with welcoming good vibes from morning to night. If you're looking for fresh, delicious food in a relaxed and stylish setting, Deckhouse is the place to be!
Dartford
The Wharf, DA2 6QL
A waterside dining destination in Dartford, The Wharf serves up fine food and drink with a side of stunning views. Situated on pretty Cotton Lake, The Wharf is a destination in itself. Perfect for a relaxed bite to eat after a busy day shopping at the nearby Bluewater complex. Relax and unwind overlooking the water and enjoy a plant-based bite to eat. All dishes on the menu are cooked from scratch, with locally sourced ingredients wherever possible.
The Plough Inn, DA4 0AE
The Plough Inn is a premium pub, bar, and restaurant with its very own courtyard, centrally located in the heart of the picturesque town of Eynsford. Boasting stylish yet comfortable interiors, a chic bar area, and spacious dining room, when you step into The Plough, you’ll be able to dine in truly impressive surroundings, tuck into a delicious menu of pub food dishes, drink, and relax in style.
The Raja, DA1 1BG
The Raja is your go-to for authentic vegan Indian takeaway in Dartford! With an entire dedicated vegan menu, The Raja is a real gem offering some of your favourite curry-house classics, all made entirely without animal products. From vegan korma to stuffed paratha breads - they even have vegan paneer dishes!
Gravesend
Vegan Antics, DA12 1AD
A 100% vegan bakery and cafe serving up delicious plant-based treats since 2015. With a changing menu of freshly baked cakes, cupcakes, baked treats, desserts, soft serve ice cream, paninis and so much more. Drinks include barista coffee, ice cream milkshakes, smoothies and soft drinks. An absolute must-try for every Kentish vegan. They can even make birthday cakes or wedding cakes for your special day! Not local? You can order online for postal delivery here.
Leyla's Wellness Cafe, DA12 2RG
Fully vegan cafe serving nourishing breakfast and lunch options. Menu includes buddha bowls, soup, salad, overnight oats and chia pots. Also offers juice and juice shots as well as hot beverages. Located inside House of Leyla, a wellness space and holistic sanctuary with community at its core. Leyla’s focuses on promoting wellness through food, offering gluten-free and refined sugar-free options to cater to a range of dietary needs. The cosy atmosphere and friendly service make it a favourite for both locals and visitors.
The Invicta Bar, DA12 1AS
Gravesend’s premier bar dedicated to craft beer and a good time. With a rotating tap list of beers and ales, they are passionate about serving you the finest quality beer produced by independent breweries from Kent and beyond. They also offer a range of gourmet burgers with some fantastic vegan options. Don't forget to order a side of their BBQ jackfruit loaded fries, and leave room for a slice of vegan cheesecake.
Tonbridge & Malling
Basil, TN9 1EJ
An independent, family-run group of wholefoods cafés in Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks. Their food is full of flavour, vibrant in colour and always loaded with good, wholesome ingredients. They always source fresh, local produce to create a host of beautiful dishes from salads and tarts to cakes and sweet treats. You can also order their food straight to your door and they are available to cater events.
The Poacher & Partridge, TN11 0PH
Mixing traditional farmhouse decor with a modern, contemporary twist, The Poacher and Partridge is perfect for all the family, including the dog. Nestled amongst beautiful orchards and rolling fields of the Kentish countryside, this cosy gastro-pub is a stand-out. With a focus on sustainably sourced ingredients, 85% of their food is sourced within 25 miles of the pub. Serving up a fantastic selection of creative vegan dishes from pizzas and hotpots to salads and desserts. They even offer a vegan Sunday roast!
The Fields, ME16 0ZP
Fields at Aylesford is your local country pub. Whether it’s a pub lunch with your partner, Friday drinks with friends or an epic Sunday lunch, you’ll be glad you came. The menu is bursting with choice, with plenty of delicious plant-based dishes. From classic curries to a Thai inspired burger to refreshing and creative salads, there's sure to be something for everyone's tastes.
Medway
The Dead Pigeon, ME1 1DJ
Medway's first craft beer sports bar, based on Rochester High Street. They stock a range of craft beers, real ales, premium lagers, ciders, gins, rums and much more, but the food is also fantastic. Virtually every burger on their menu is available as either a meat or vegan option - keep an eye out for their monthly special! Arguably some of the best vegan burgers in Kent, make sure you give them a try.
Padrino Pizza, ME1 1PY
Classic stone baked Neapolitan style pizza and modern Italian dining in the heart of historic Rochester. They have a great selection of vegan dishes on their menu and the attentive staff are always happy to help. If you're looking for fresh, homemade food that will give you a little taste of Italy, Padrino is the place to go!
Cafe Nucleus, ME4 4JG
With award winning cafés in Chatham, Rochester and Rainham, Cafe Nucleus is part of the Nucleus Arts & Halpern Charitable Foundation, which works to promote the Arts in Medway and Kent. With a warm, welcoming atmosphere, the Chatham Lounge location is our favourite. A lovely relaxed pitstop for a grab and go snack, or a calming oasis to relax with a coffee.
Maidstone
The Skull Bar, ME14 1JL
The Skull Bar is Maidstone's only fully dedicated alternative rock, punk and metal bar, tucked away in the Royal Star Arcade in the town centre. Serving craft beers, cocktails and vegan burgers and hot dogs. There’s always something going on, with quizzes, live acts and even Lego building nights.
Blackthorn Trust Cafe, ME16 9AN
Blackthorn Trust is a Maidstone-based Health and Community Hub where people can recover, grow and develop. Their unique site includes a large biodynamic garden, craft & woodwork studios, training kitchen and therapy rooms. Blackthorn Trust also has a café, charity shop and plant nursery that are open to the public. The cafe has a warm and friendly atmosphere and is the perfect spot for a homemade lunch. Most of the food served at the cafe has been grown in their own biodynamic garden. Their menu is small but their seasonal salads are absolutely delicious, as are the vegan sausage rolls.
Notorious B.R.G., ME16 8SF
Independent burger restaurant that offers plant based alternatives on every menu item. Whether you are a vegan or a meat eater - THE best burgers in town, with locations in Maidstone and Canterbury. Their menu includes burgers, loaded fries, mac and cheese and milkshakes. Their friendly staff are always happy to help and can recommend their favourite dishes to you. They even have a brunch menu!
Tunbridge Wells
The Hidden Well, TN4 9TT
The Hidden Well is an Asian, casual dining experience, located on St John's Road. Boasting both popular and unique Asian dishes that explode with flavour. The family restaurant is owned and ran by couple Katherine and On-Mun. If you love authentic Asian food this place should be at the top of your list to try out. The atmosphere is extremely warm and friendly and the tables are cosy. Their vegan katsu is a must-try!
Kumquat, TN2 5TN
Located on the Pantiles in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kumquat offers a different way to enjoy Asian food. Modern Asian cuisine with fusion elements, all crafted by chef owner Alex Boyd. Flavours from Asia cooked in a modern way using only the best ingredients and made with love and care. They have a great range of vegan dishes from gyoza to bao buns to their signature miso caramel glazed aubergine.
Ruby's of London, TN1 1LU
Ruby's of London is a plant based patisserie offering a range of sweet and savoury products alongside a wide range of special occasion and celebration cakes that can be ordered online.They offer breakfast and lunch alongside Monmouth Coffee, Bird and Blend loose teas, freshly pressed juices and a range of high end pantry and gift items.
Swale
Posillipo, ME13 7LD
A traditional Italian restaurant serving authentic Neapolitan pizza and pasta dishes. The wood-fired pizza oven produces crispy, flavourful pizzas, while the pasta dishes are made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. They have a dedicated vegan menu bursting with choices, including vegan calzone made with plant-based mozzarella. The family-friendly atmosphere and warm hospitality make Posillipo a local favourite. Find their other locations in Canterbury and Broadstairs.
The Refinery, ME13 7JE
The Refinery Faversham is an independent coffee bar specialising in coffee, loose leaf tea, luxury cake, pastries, as well as a fine selection of wines, spirits and beers with all produce sourced within Kent. They have a great selection of tasty vegan options to choose from.
Sentado Lounge, ME10 3JY
Sentado Lounge in Sittingbourne is a home from home, offering delicious food and drinks, all day, on your doorstep. They have a dedicated vegan menu as well as gluten free options. A really warm, welcoming space, dogs are allowed and they even have board games for big and small guests, as well as toys for the really little ones. Pick from healthier options like buddha bowls or opt for a real treat and try the vegan hot dog.
Ashford
Salata, TN23 1BX
Salata is a family run business based in Ashford Town Center. Their aim is to make healthy eating convenient with their delicious salad boxes that are ideal for on-the-go. They serve fresh, tasty, whole foods with the option to customise your box however you like. They also offer some hot food options such as baked sweet potatoes with a selection of fillings.
Cinnamon Spice, TN25 4BY
An Indian restaurant serving a diverse range of authentic Indian dishes. The flavourful curries, tandoori specialties, and vegan and vegetarian options cater to all tastes. The friendly staff and warm atmosphere create a memorable dining experience, or their food is available for takeaway. Their dedicated vegan menu makes choosing a dish fuss free.
Food with Friends, TN23 1AS
Food With Friends cafe is a social enterprise working with adults and young people who have a disability. Food with Friends cafe is a wonderful place to meet friends, relax and have delicious cake and coffee. It is also a learning environment for their students studying food and cookery, enabling them to gain skills and confidence in catering.
Canterbury
The Veg Box Cafe, CT1 2HG
A vibrant and cosy cafe serving delicious plant-based food. From hearty breakfasts to light lunches, the menu caters to all dietary needs. The friendly staff and inviting atmosphere make it a popular spot for vegans, vegetarians, and flexitarians alike.
Canterbury Tails Cat Cafe, CT1 2JJ
A unique and heartwarming cafe where you can enjoy a cup of coffee or tea while cuddling with adorable cats. It's the perfect place to relax, unwind, and spend time with furry friends. They are a fully plant-based cafe, with a focus on sustainable and local suppliers. They have a great range of savoury options from paninis, sausage rolls and soups - just make sure to leave room for a sweet treat!
Lily's Social Kitchen, CT1 2JQ
A Social Enterprise cafe offering opportunities into employment for those who are neurodiverse, including those with Autism and Learning disabilities. Their menu champions locally sourced ingredients, and all menu items are made by their trainees. The cafe runs on a donation only basis to ensure they are accessible to everyone in the community. Menus may change weekly as they base these on the food donated to them from Fareshare Kent – making sure food stays out of bins and gets into tummies.
Folkestone & Hythe
Dr Legumes, CT20 1EX
Based in the coastal town of Folkestone, on the South-East coast of England, Dr Legumes is a Community Interest Company that uses plant-based food as a tool to communicate the ethos of health-conscious food within the local community. They have a delicious range of dishes and offer both a brunch and an evening menu.
Baoboba, CT20 1QH
Delightfully morish Taiwanese street food, sharing plates, and bubble tea on the harbour arm. Enjoy anywhere in an ocean friendly takeaway container, or share small plates inside. Pick up bao buns, rice dishes, boba (bubble tea), mochi and more. Customise your drinks to your liking, there are plenty of vegan options available.
Root Hythe, CT21 5AD
Vegan and vegetarian café, Root has been a firm favourite on Hythe’s historic high street since April 2021. Root serves home-cooked, delicious and nutritious food and drink as well as selling vegetarian and vegan products, gifts and groceries. They focus on natural, seasonal ingredients to bring you the best plant-powered dishes in town.
Thanet
JAH JAH, CT11 8HA
A trendy restaurant serving Caribbean-inspired cuisine, and a selection of cocktails and rums. With locations in Ramsgate and Margate. Their traditional dishes are made with authentic spices and fresh ingredients that really pack a punch. A great, relaxed atmosphere to enjoy a delicious vegan ital curry - don't forget the festivals on the side!
Giant, CT9 1EU
This totally Instagrammable coffee shop is small but perfectly formed, serving up an exciting menu of hot and cold drinks (all of which can be made with an array of plant-based milks) as well as delicious vegan toasties and sweet treats. There's plenty of cosy corners to curl up in, or why not take your goodies to go and walk 30 seconds to Margate seafront? With a plant-based food menu, and carefully selected Brazilian Santo Beans from Bella Barista, not only is everything delicious but the service is always warm and friendly, too.
NāMAKA, CT10 1DU
This beautiful beachfront cafe in Broadstairs serves up a delicious and nutritious menu of smoothies, acai bowls, breakfast, lunch and barista coffee. Everything is vegetarian and most things are vegan and/or gluten free. They do close over Winter so be sure to visit them when you can! When they are closed, be sure to visit their sister shop Salt, just opposite Broadstairs train station.
Dover
Planet Earth Kitchen, CT17 9FS
This fully plant-based cabin offers an array of healthy, hearty, naughty, and delicious food that will tantalize your taste buds. Their menu is carefully crafted to cater to all tastes and preferences, including some gluten-free and nut-free options. All of their dishes are made using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
The Boost Food Kitchen, CT16 3LG
The perfect spot for a delicious breakfast, alone or with friends. Choose from delicious savoury options like a vegan full english breakfast or toasite or perhaps indulge in something sweet like their super fluffy vegan pancakes. Whatever you choose, it is guaranteed to be delicious.
Cullins Yard, CT17 9BY
Cullins Yard is a restaurant located in an old converted Ship Yard in Dover harbour. Catering to all tastes, they serve high quality fresh food to order. The restaurant is full of history and has many interesting things to catch your eye including some of the original ‘Cullins Yard’ fixtures, World War memorabilia and some fascinating sculptures. Their vegan options are limited but tasty, and you can't beat the view watching the sunset behind the white cliffs.
