To celebrate 10 years of Veganuary – the global campaign to try vegan for January and beyond - join me as I recommend five plant-powered menus being served across Cambridgeshire.
Vanderlyle: Cambridge
Situated on Mill Road, Vanderlyle is a charming restaurant deeply engaged with local farmers, sourcing premium ingredients primarily from CoFarm in central Cambridge and Flourish Produce in Hildersham. Sustainability lies at the heart of Vanderlyle's ethos; the foundation of the restaurant’s commitment to creating exceptional seasonal and plant-based dishes.
Guided by head chef Alex Rushmer, the vegan offering aligns with his philosophy that “it is important to be led by what comes out of the ground”. Winter favourites include dishes such as tortellini stuffed with slow-cooked cavolo nero and ricotta cheese, and lentil ragu with potato mousse and puffed potatoes - a celebration of seasonal, delightful dining.
@vanderlylerestaurant
Image: Vanderlyle x Instagram
Sushi & Salad: Saffron Walden, Ely and Stamford
In Saffron Walden, this indie chain’s renowned vegan dishes stand out throughout the seasons, notably the vegan Monday roll - an artful uramaki filled with asparagus tempura, cucumber, grilled aubergine, avocado, sesame seeds, and a drizzle of homemade teriyaki mayo.
Crafted in the specialist Japanese kitchen, every dish captures the essence of the best and most pristine ingredients, carefully selected from Saffron and Sage. Vibrant vegetables like avocado and carrot take the lead, offering a satisfying crunch to sushi enthusiasts.
Manager Paul Lewis affirms: “Vegan sushi’s beauty lies in its adaptability and commitment to culinary diversity. Whether a seasoned enthusiast or a curious newcomer, vegan sushi invites you to savour plant-based creativity, one roll at a time.”
@sushiandsaladhome
Image: Sushi & Salad x Instagram
PEACH: Bishop’s Stortford and Hertford
Born during lockdown, PEACH is the creative endeavour of a lorry driver and a hairdresser. From the moment you walk through the door, it captivates you with its effortlessly cool ambience. The trendy-yet-welcoming space is a magnet for the Instagram-savvy crowd and those seeking a lively, city-like dining experience.
Come evening, it's the vegan Baja shrimp that steals the show, combined with vibrant toppings - zesty pico de gallo, a drizzle of tangy vegan aioli. Tuesdays are made for tacos and tequila; prepare for an array of creative tacos, matched with some vibrant margaritas.
@eatdrinkpeach
Image: Daisy Champion
Stem & Glory: Cambridge and London
Catering to every aspect of a vegan lifestyle, all whilst ethically sourcing ingredients that make choosing a plant-based life accessible and exciting, Stem & Glory is dedicated to sustainability and carbon-neutrality as well as crafting delicious vegan dishes. Among its top sellers, the Schezwan aubergine and kimchi rice stands out as an absolute “flavour bomb”.
This January, Stem & Glory collaborates with Redefine Meat, presenting special dishes to delight both plant-based enthusiasts and meat lovers. Featured is a Sunday roast with succulent Redefine Meat ‘beef’ flank, wild thyme roast potatoes, honey-smoked carrots, parsnips, greens, and a rich smoked red wine gravy.
@stemandglory
Image: Stem & Glory
The Old Bicycle Shop: Cambridge
The Old Bicycle Shop is renowned for its use of fresh local ingredients, commitment to sustainable food and beverages, and the distinction of being housed in the country's oldest bicycle shop! Located on Regent Street, its design blends an industrial aesthetic with the quintessential charm of Cambridge.
The team offers a variety of dishes tailored to a plant-based diet - such as cauliflower, squash, coconut and lentil curry, served with poppadoms and vegan raita: a burst of diverse and vibrant flavours, which brings together the rich creaminess of coconut and the savoury goodness of cauliflower and squash.
@oldbicycleshop
Image: Joe Bishop
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