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Going vegan might sound seriously hardcore. But thanks to London's health food boom and an outspoken band of celebrity vegans (Morrissey, we’re looking at you) it feels easier than ever to go animal-free.
A buzzing vegan scene is serving up everything from Instagramable salads to dangerously good junk food, proving that veganism needn’t be a total falafel. It’s a chance to challenge your tastebuds, find new haunts, help our furry friends and get a smug glow without ever setting foot in a gym.
To mark today’s World Vegan Day, here are five great places for when you want to veg out in style.
EAT
Hackney hideaway Black Cat Cafe has a scarily realistic fish free fish and chips, delicious arancini, as well as communal tables that are great for making new vegan friends. 76 Clarence Rd. Hackney Central Overground.
SHOP
Direct your feet to Camden-based ethical emporium The Third Estate for leather-free shoes including Doc Martens-style kicks and brocade brogues - plus fancy-pants organic underwear. 27 Brecknock Rd. Camden Town.
DRINK
From egg whites in cocktails to refined fish bladders in beer, boozing while vegan can be tough. The arrival of new veggie pub The Full Nelson is great news for anyone who wants to guzzle animal-free brews and veganised junk food. 47 Deptford Broadway. Deptford Bridge DLR.
COIF
Vegan hair salon The Rabbit Hole will take you to a trippy world of vegetable hair treatments, ice-cream colours, or just a nice cut and blow-dry with no animal cruelty involved in any of its products. 49b Goldhawk Rd. Goldhawk Rd.
SCOFF
Brixton’s Ms Cupcake is a mecca for vegan cake lovers, whether you’re after dinky cakes, hefty slabs of sponge or even Sunday roast sandwiches. 408 Coldharbour Lane. Brixton.
By Alice Saville, who is proud to share a lifestyle choice with Miley Cyrus.
Like these? Check out the rest of London's vegan restaurants
Or try London's best vegetarian restaurants
And here are five places to take a vegetarian for a date