The best vegetarian restaurants in the City

Amber brings contemporary Middle Eastern vibes to Whitechapel. The menu is inspired by the ancient Amber Road trade route, including a range of heritage-centric dishes, like challah toast and shakshuka at breakfast and stuffed pittas, mezze and pides come dinner. There are loads of veggie options, plenty of shareable plates, and a solid wine and cocktail list to match.

The biggest and boldest of Yotam Ottolenghi's spots, this sleek Spitalfields flagship is part restaurant, part deli, part cocktail hangout. It's not strictly veggie, but the plant-based dishes here are worth getting excited about. Expect colourful stacked plates like oozy shakshuka with labneh and zingy Swiss chard rolls packed with herbs and wild za'atar. 

 Ara is an all-day spot from chef Murat Kilic that's big on flavour and sustainability. The menu is inspired by dishes from around the world, with plenty to keep veggie diners full. There's a sharp little wine list to match the food, and a space just as thoughtful as both – think pineapple leather seats and lighting made from salvaged steel.

Kin is all about good vibes, great veg, and zero-waste. The menu is fresh, with dishes made with seasonal ingredients (some sourced all the way from Amazonian communities). Grab a table outside, soak up some sun, and sip on a waste-free cocktail while tucking into their wholesome lunch and dinner dishes. 

The open-plan Lina Stores at Bloomberg Arcade is a great shout whether you're grabbing a speedy lunch or a bigger evening feast. It spans two floors with space for private dining, and a menu that's all about delicious Italian produce and fresh, handmade pasta – think stracciatella ravioli, silky pappardelle and tagliolini topped with sauces, parmesan, truffle and all the good stuff. Every Lina Stores spot also has vegan and veggie options, so no one's left out.

Atis is all about plant-packed bowls that put veggies front and centre, built around the concept of food that's good for your body, soul and the planet. Their menu is loaded with wholesome ingredients, and while you can add ethically sourced meat or fish if you fancy, the vegetarian and vegan options are their highlight. They even offer to mix and match your own bowls.

Mallow is a modern restaurant tucked inside the historic Borough Market that serves a menu that's entirely plant-based. The interiors are lush and decorated with florals, with hot pink flower murals setting the scene. The dishes are made for sharing, with highlights like tempura fungi and leek 'cheddar' croquettes.

Bubala is all about fresh Middle Eastern dishes, served right in the heart of Spitalfields. This intimate, candlelit spot is perfect for sharing plates and long conversations. The ever-evolving tasting menu highlights dishes like crispy halloumi drizzled with black seed honey, pillowy falafel, and lush labneh.

Unity Diner is a slick, non-profit spot in the City serving vegan comfort food that aims to challenge old-school ideas about plant-based dining. The menu features everything from loaded fries and burgers to plant-based fish and even 3D-printed steak. There's also a solid lineup of classic and signature cocktails to round things off.

Coya isn't just a restaurant, it's a full sensory experience in the heart of the city. This swish Peruvian spot is filled with lush hanging plants, bright colours, shiny metallics and modern art to create a space that's just as lively as the food. While it's not strictly veggie, there are plenty of plant-based options on the menu – think zingy veggie tacos and lots of other Latin American-inspired dishes.