07/06/2022
In a Vegan feature we prepared for several of the "ShoutOut" family of community broadcasting stations, we shone a light on just some of the many vegetarian and vegan eateries in the UK which - in keeping with most - are also safe spaces for LGBTQIA people. Here are what our gourmet vegans chose, just three in a massive array that is available across the land!
The Warehouse Café on Allison Street, Digbeth in Birmingham, has been part of the vegetarian and vegan scene in the city for decades. It’s been through several changes of ownership through the years, but its commitment to ethical living and building communities of peace and sustainability has not changed. Vegan dishes, include dirty vegan burgers, curries and regularly changes specials. you will be greeted by a lovely display of their vegan cakes made in-house by their superb pastry chef, and they try to have at least one gluten-free option at all times. The bar is open late on weekends. If you’re visiting during the day, then why not also visit the Warehouse Co-operative next door. This is an environmental community building owned by Birmingham Friends of the Earth. It includes meeting spaces and office space for numerous local charities and community groups. For online information about all of this exciting activity, then do visit www.thewarehouse.coop.
Up in Manchester, the On the Eighth Day on the junction between Oxford and Sydney Street is one of the oldest workers’ co-operatives in the North West of England, having been set up in 1970. It’s an entire centre for vegan and vegetarian, organic and fairtrade values, comprising a wholefoods shop and café. The café is open from 11am to 3pm Monday through Saturday. Meals are always changing but are always mouthwatering and can be viewed online at www.8thday.coop.
Now, if you are in London then there are dozens of good vegan cafes and restaurants, a number which expands exponentially if you include general outlets that also cater for the growing vegan population. I found a great website called veganfoodandliving.com which has a comprehensive guide to the scores of eateries available in the city. One place that deserves a mention as it offers affordable dining in the heart of Soho, is Neat Burger, which has three branches including one at 33 Old Compton Street, in the heart of the gay village. It provides vegan burgers, vegan hotdogs and other quick and tasty Friday night food. Their no milk shakes are described as “epic” by some reviewers and are served in Strawberry, Chocolate, Oreo, Biscoff or Brownie flavour. For their menu and a full list of locations, visit www.neat-burger.com.
