Enjoy Veganuary: Exploring West Kent’s Vegan-Friendly Scene
January marks the start of Veganuary, a month-long celebration encouraging people to embrace a plant-based lifestyle. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just curious to explore new culinary horizons, the local area offers a variety of vegan-friendly restaurants and ethical producers to make your Veganuary journey both delicious and meaningful.
Vegan Dining
The Ivy, Tunbridge Wells
Located in the heart of Tunbridge Wells, The Ivy offers a sophisticated dining experience with an array of vegan options. Their carefully crafted menu includes dishes like roasted butternut squash with grains, pumpkin seeds, and pomegranate, alongside indulgent desserts such as a rich chocolate bombe with a dairy-free twist. The elegant setting makes it a perfect spot for a special Veganuary treat.
The Humphrey Bean, Tonbridge
Bet you thought I’d never feature Spoons on here, but it’s got a surprisingly good vegan selection! For breakfast, you can order a plant-based full English featuring Quorn sausages, beans, mushrooms, hash browns, and toast with vegan spread. There’s also a vegan sausage butty, vegan beans on toast, smashed avocado muffin, and fresh fruit.
If you’re ordering lunch or dinner, you can get a vegan roasted vegetable pizza, a Beyond Burger, ramen noodle, bowl, Mediterranean salad, chilli bean non-carne, and Mangalorean roasted cauliflower & spinach curry. The chips are also suitable for vegans.
Zorba Meze Grill, Tunbridge Wells
For a Mediterranean twist, Zorba Meze Grill in Sevenoaks offers an array of vegan meze dishes. Think falafel, hummus, stuffed vine leaves, and vibrant salads, all bursting with flavour. The relaxed, welcoming atmosphere makes it a great choice for a casual meal with friends or family.
Producers to Support
Rebel Kitchen
Based in Lordswood, Rebel Kitchen is a pioneer in plant-based drinks and dairy alternatives. Their organic coconut-based milk and cream products are perfect for cooking, baking, or simply enjoying with your morning coffee. With a strong commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing, Rebel Kitchen exemplifies the values of Veganuary.
Tonbridge Farmers’ Market
Held monthly on Sovereign Way, Tonbridge Farmers’ Market showcases a variety of local ethical producers. From artisan vegan cheeses and cruelty-free skincare to plant-based street food, the market offers a fantastic opportunity to discover new favourites while supporting small businesses.
Local Organic Veg Box Schemes
West Kent is home to several organic veg box schemes that provide fresh, seasonal produce straight to your door. Companies like Bore Place and Haywards Farmshop deliver high-quality fruit and vegetables, helping you create delicious vegan meals while reducing food miles and supporting local farmers.
Tips for a Successful Veganuary
- Plan Ahead: Many restaurants in West Kent offer vegan options, but it’s worth checking menus online or calling ahead to ensure you’ll have plenty of choices.
- Experiment at Home: Take advantage of local producers and veg box schemes to try new recipes and ingredients.
- Connect with the Community: Join local vegan groups or attend events like the Kent Vegan’s Market to meet like-minded people and discover more resources.
A Month to Remember
Veganuary is more than just a dietary challenge; it’s an opportunity to explore new flavours, support ethical producers, and make a positive impact on the planet. With its vibrant mix of vegan-friendly restaurants and passionate local businesses, West Kent is the perfect place to start your journey. So, why not give it a go this January and see where the plant-based path takes you?
Happy Veganuary!