AUCKLAND’S TASTIEST VEGAN RESTAURANTS
Nuts to limited options, writes Alexia Santamaria
In the past, it wasn’t always easy to go out in Auckland if your dietary or ethical dining requirements meant excluding animal products. Fortunately, things have improved drastically for Tāmaki Makaurau’s vegan community, with totally plantbased outlets, vegetarian menus with vegan options and plenty of regular restaurants also upping their vegan game. Here are some of our picks (there are far too many to list them all).
East — CBD
On the ground floor of the Sudima hotel is East, a favourite for plant-based diners. Think spicy garlic eggplant, bang bang mushrooms, sticky jackfruit bao buns and other dishes inspired by Asian cuisines. Almost everything on the menu is vegan. easteats.co.nz
Khu Khu — Ponsonby
Khu Khu may be tiny but it punches way above its floorspace. Fabulous 100 per cent vegan Thai food with bold flavours and lovely service. khukhu.co.nz
Gorilla Kitchen — Eden Terrace
Gorilla Kitchen is a favourite with Auckland vegans looking for great cabinet food as well as cracking lunch and dinner options. Formerly a food truck, it has put down permanent roots. gorillakitchen.nz
Kind Cafe — Morningside
Brunch on your mind? Head to Kind Cafe for a huge choice of vegan and vegetarian options. Breakfast burritos, poke bowls, even plant-based “mince on toast”. kindcafe.co.nz
Tart Bakery — Grey Lynn and Commercial Bay
Vegan or not, if you’ve tried Tart Bakery’s legendary doughnuts it’s likely you’re a convert. Your one-stop-shop for plant-based bread, pastries, pies, sweets and sandwiches. facebook.com/tartgreylynn
Saravanaa Bhavan — CBD
South Indians in town flock to this place (it’s a popular worldwide chain) and for good reason. Their masala dosa are some of the best in town and there are so many great vegan options on their vegetarian menu. saravanabhavan.co.nz
The Butcher’s Son — Herne Bay
This Herne Bay fave has been extremely popular since it opened its doors a few years ago. With everything from Buddha bowls to burgers, they have Auckland’s vegans totally covered. thebutchersson.co.nz
Oldies but goodies
It wouldn’t be fair to do an insider’s guide without mentioning some pioneers — Revive, Little Bird and Sunflower Thai have been crowd-pleasers for years, and still very popular.
Fast food
If you’re in need of fast food, Wise Boys and Lord of the Fries have you totally covered. And if you just need a pie (don’t we all?) Richoux Patisserie is the place to go. If it’s a total treat night, why not round it out with some of Duck Island’s vegan icecream flavours or any of the amazing option from Good Habit Ice Cream.