VEGEMANIA!
. . . IN YOUR WEEKEND MAGS
Meatless pizza & burger recipes
A guide to the best vegan restaurants
Meet the unlikely vegans
THE BUTCHER’S SON
If you thought you knew what could be achieved with the humble vegetable, think again. New to the Ponsonby scene and already a favourite among vegans and meat-lovers alike, The Butcher’s Son is out to bring you veganism as you’ve never seen it before. The brainchild of James and Louise Logan, alongside Chris Kinnel, the eatery was inspired by Kinnel’s travels in Bali; a plant-based mecca where cheap and delicious vegan food is the norm. With the expertly trained chefs whipping up chicken burgers and nachos among the favoured smoothie bowls and salads, it’s popularity is no surprise.
LORD OF THE FRIES
Want to eat ethical but can’t part with your beloved hamburgers, hot dogs, chips or shakes? Or wondering where to take your vegan mate for a late night bite? Fear not, Lord of the Fries has you covered. Operating out of two central locations (St Kevins Arcade and more recently, Snickel Lane), legend has it this plant-based chain’s faux-meat can dupe the staunchest of meat lovers.
EBISU
Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or pescetarian, Ebisu is a top-notch pick that will please the pickiest group of eaters. Giving Japanese a contemporary spin (and collecting countless awards), the moodily lit space is both intimate and lively, while the menu is a true test of restraint. Can’t decide between crunchy tempura vegetables, teriyaki tofu or a misoglazed eggplant that, without fail, will disappear first? We recommend ordering a little of everything with small sharing plates.
MONDAYS EATERY
Nestled in the greenery of Mondays Eatery, soaking in the sun as you sip on a matcha latte, it’s easy to forget the bustling Kingsland streets are just metres away. A welcome addition to the suburb, the wholefoods eatery is a tribute to all things wellness and delicious, where one can kick off their Birkenstocks and indulge in a roast veg toastie, macadamia nut cheesecake or a super-food chocolate smoothie almost too beautiful to drink. Almost.
THE SHACK
Even stone-cold city lovers know that there is something about getting out of the city. So, if you’re set on escape, Raglan’s infamous cafe, The Shack, is a worthy excuse for a trip. Situated proudly on the corner of Bow St and Wainui Rd, the eatery holds an almost constant stream of cruisy customers, tucking into the plant-based, free-range and in-house menu. There’s a focus on locally and ethically sourced ingredients and the chill vibes that seem to always accompany places near the coast.