Friday, April 25, 2025

The ultimate vegan guide to Berlin: Where to find the best food in “the vegan capital of Europe”

From veganfoodandliving.com 

You won’t suffer a lack of vegan food in Berlin. With abundant Asian-inspired restaurants, cosy community vegan stores, and one of Europe’s largest plant-based celebrations, there are plenty of cruelty-free culinary treasures to discover. Find the very best with this ultimate vegan’s guide to Berlin. 

In the heart of Germany lies a city that has quietly revolutionised plant-based living. Berlin, often hailed as the vegan capital of Europe, has transformed from a city once divided by walls to one that unites people through compassionate food choices and sustainable living.

With over a thousand vegan-friendly businesses and more than 100 fully vegan restaurants, Berlin is among the best vegan cities in Europe, offering vegans culinary options at every bend.

What makes this scene particularly unique is the remarkable prevalence of Asian-inspired outposts, where Vietnamese, Chinese, and Korean flavours are reimagined through a plant-based lens.

A significant portion of Berlin’s vegan restaurants showcase Asian culinary traditions. This abundance didn’t happen by chance.

The city’s embrace of alternative lifestyles, strong environmental consciousness, and ethical consumerism created fertile ground for veganism to flourish.

Beyond restaurants, Berlin has made plant-based living accessible through dedicated vegan supermarkets like Veganz (Europe’s first all-vegan grocery chain) and community-driven stores like Dr. Pogo Veganladen-Kollektiv.

The movement extends far beyond vegan food, with cruelty-free fashion boutiques, cosmetic shops, and one of Europe’s largest plant-based celebrations, Veganes Sommerfest Berlin.

What truly sets Berlin apart is how veganism has been woven into the city’s cultural fabric.

Here, oat milk in your coffee isn’t a special request but often the default, and the excellent public transportation system aligns perfectly with the low-impact lifestyle many residents seek.

For first-time visitors, Berlin can feel overwhelming for vegans if you aren’t used to so many choices. This curated collection of restaurants, cafes, shops and more makes it easy to find vegan food in Berlin, so you can navigate the vegan capital of Europe like a local.

Vegan restaurants in Berlin




Vegan Asian restaurant round-up

Off the main street and tucked away, Good Morning Vietnam Vegan is the vegan sister to Good Morning Vietnam, so be mindful to go to the dedicated vegan location.

Known for its vegan fried duck, noodle bowls, and curry dishes, this cosy spot serves flavourful dishes in a unique setting.

Mido Sakura Vegan is a Vietnamese and Japanese fusion restaurant which cleverly brands itself as “Veganese”.

Known for generous portions, its standout offerings include flavourful clay pot dishes, satisfying noodle bowls, and aromatic noodle soups.

The menu is rounded out with tasty appetisers, homemade teas, well-crafted cocktails, and tempting desserts for a complete dining experience.

Vegan Haus brings together the best of Japanese, Korean, and Vietnamese cuisine in one welcoming plant-based spot.

The impressive menu offers everything from expertly prepared sushi and satisfying rice bowls to great-tasting burgers and authentic bibimbap, with plenty more to discover.

What really stands out are the creative and innovative dishes that take vegan Asian food to the next level. The calm and relaxing atmosphere makes this place perfect for enjoying a quiet meal away from the city bustle.

                          When it comes to delicious Asian vegan restaurants, you're spoiled for choice in Berlin. Photo © Lana Katsaros

Tucked away since 2015, Quy Nguyen serves delicious South Vietnamese vegan cuisine from its plant-filled space. You can’t miss the large “Vegan Living” sign across the front while approaching.

Inside the quaint space, they offer everything from beautifully marinated tofu and vegetable stir-fries to comforting noodle and rice dishes. The menu also features wonderful dumplings, complemented by a nice selection of wines.

Small stools and few outdoor tables add to its charming, intimate atmosphere. This hidden gem keeps things simple with reasonable prices, but remember to bring cash as cards aren’t accepted. Perfect for an authentic vegan Vietnamese meal without breaking the bank.

Mom’s – Vegan Cooking offers a welcoming spot to enjoy fully vegan Asian cuisine. Its diverse menu features fresh salads, flavourful vegetable stir-fries, satisfying noodle dishes, and much more. Guests appreciate their fair prices and generous portions.

Mom’s is consistently praised for beautifully presented dishes that taste as good as they look. The service is genuinely kind and attentive. The weekday lunch special is a unique treat where guests can enjoy unlimited complimentary tea with their meal, plus each dish comes with a free and utterly delightful dessert.

Since opening its doors in June 2015, Soy has brought delicious vegan food from Vietnam to Berlin. Its affordable lunch special offers excellent value, featuring your choice of main dish and either a crispy spring roll or fresh summer roll to complete your meal.

Among locals, Soy’s mango salad has earned quite a reputation as a must-try dish. The restaurant’s tapas-style approach lets you sample multiple flavours in one visit, making it perfect for both satisfying smaller appetites or sharing a variety of dishes with friends. A wonderful spot to experience authentic Vietnamese flavours without stretching your budget.

Gayaya is a charming little haven that locals have come to adore. This cosy spot specialises in Asian-inspired vegan cuisine, crafted with fresh seasonal ingredients that change throughout the year.

Once inside, you’ll immediately understand why regulars compare it to a spa retreat. The peaceful atmosphere and generously portioned dishes make this a regular spot for many. The staff are attentive and accommodating.

CAI Kitchen brings the bold flavours of Sichuan cuisine to life in an entirely plant-based menu. This charming vegan bistro has quickly become known for its vibrant, spice-forward dishes that pack a delicious punch.

From steaming wonton soups and handmade dumplings to savoury rice bowls and slurp-worthy noodles, every option bursts with authentic Sichuan character.

Diners will appreciate the clearly marked gluten-free vegan options, making it accessible for various dietary needs.

Aptly named The Butterfly Lovers after the tragic romance of legend, this Chinese restaurant captivates with both its charming concept and gorgeous interior design. The thoughtfully crafted menu guides diners through various spice levels, allowing everyone to find their perfect heat match.

Culinary highlights include handmade dumplings, authentic fiery Szechuan specialities, and innovative plant-based alternatives like their popular Gangbao “chicken.”

Oukan Dining offers an exquisite Japanese vegan fine dining experience that beautifully blends ancient traditions with modern sustainability. Inspired by Shojin Ryori, the centuries-old Buddhist temple cuisine, each dish celebrates the purity of local, seasonal ingredients with a distinctive Berlin influence.

Guests can indulge in a 5-course or 7-course journey featuring delicate creations like tsukemono & cucumber, kabocha & kale, and yuzu & quince. The thoughtfully curated beverage program allows diners to enhance their meal with expertly paired teas, wines, or a combination of both.

A delightful surprise tucked away in the Potsdamer Platz area, Shisomen Vegan Ramen & Cocktails brings a fresh twist to Japanese fusion dining. This stylish restaurant and cocktail bar serves up soul-warming ramen bowls alongside delectable wontons and perfectly crisp gyoza that satisfy even the most discerning palates.

Diners can cosy up inside the thoughtfully designed interior or enjoy the restaurant’s outdoor seating.

Located in Prenzlauer Berg since 2016, Anh Dao (formerly known as Huong Sen) has become a beloved Vietnamese eatery offering a delightful culinary experience without breaking the bank. The casual, welcoming atmosphere invites diners to explore Anh Dao’s diverse menu, which features everything from fresh vegetable sushi rolls and steaming bowls of pho to aromatic curries, delicate dumplings, and flavourful tofu dishes served with fluffy rice.

Sweet-toothed visitors will appreciate the mango sticky rice and refreshing shakes to round out their meal. While portions might seem modest at first glance, they’re perfectly sized considering the remarkably student-friendly prices. Don’t miss the homemade drinks, which add an authentic and delicious touch.

                                       Berlin is also bursting with delicious Italian vegan food. Photo © Lana Katsaros

Nestled in a cosy space with warm, inviting interiors, Element 5 brings an exciting twist to the dining scene as a vegan tapas gastrobar specialising in Asian fusion cuisine. Visitors are often pleasantly surprised by the generous portions that leave even hearty appetites fully satisfied.

The menu boasts an impressive variety of creative plant-based small plates, perfect for sharing and sampling multiple flavours in one visit. Remember to bring cash or your EC card, as they don’t accept other payment methods.

Chay Long has become a beloved gathering spot for Buddhist monks and nuns in the heart of the city since 2017. They have evolved into a vibrant all-vegan Vietnamese eatery since switching to a fully plant-based menu in 2019.

This welcoming restaurant offers an array of authentic dishes reimagined without animal products. From steaming bowls of aromatic pho and creamy curries with plant-based “chicken” to fresh rice paper rolls and hearty pan-fried udon with tofu, the menu offers something for everyone. Lighter options like delicate glass noodle salad and pillowy bun bao stuffed with vegetables round out the diverse menu.

Located in the charming Kollwitzkiez district since 2019, Feel Seoul Good brings the vibrant flavours of Korean cuisine to Berlin’s vegan scene with a playful twist on its name. This delightful eatery modernises traditional Korean favourites without animal products, serving up steaming soups, delicate handmade dumplings, colourful bimbimbap bowls, crispy Korean pancakes, tangy house-made kimchi, and creative vegan sushi rolls.

The restaurant’s inviting interior is as appealing as its menu, featuring thoughtful design elements that create a warm atmosphere. Meanwhile, on-street tables offer a perfect perch for people-watching in this lively neighbourhood.

Considered something of an institution in the local vegan scene, 1990 Vegan Living has earned its reputation as a must-visit destination for vegan food lovers in Berlin. This cosy restaurant specialises in Vietnamese-inspired plant-based cuisine.

The extensive menu offers guests plenty of options to explore across multiple visits. The warm, inviting atmosphere adds to its charm, though its popularity means you might find yourself waiting for a table during peak hours.

Speciality vegan dining in Berlin

One of the world’s first zero-waste vegan restaurants, Frea stands as a pioneering force in sustainable dining. Since opening its doors in March 2019, this spare, modern restaurant has earned both a devoted following and the prestigious Michelin Green Star for its commitment to environmental practices.

Frea delights guests with plant-based, organic cuisine crafted entirely in-house. The kitchen celebrates the seasons by sourcing organic, regional produce directly from local farms, embodying farm-to-table dining at its most conscientious. For those craving a quick taste of Frea’s magic, their little sister establishment, FREA Bakery & Cafe, offers the same vegan, zero-waste philosophy in a more casual setting.

If only Italy had The Sanctuary! This delightful vegan bakery specialises in authentic Italian baked goods and pastries, with an impressive array of both sweet and savoury options. Founded by Federica Fronterré, this artisanal workshop operates from two distinct locations, one designed for quick grab-and-go visits, while the other invites guests to linger and savour the experience.

The Sanctuary prides itself on creating high-quality vegan treats that honour Italian traditions while embracing evolution and innovation. As Federica beautifully expresses, “Traditions evolve, as our environment does. The only way to keep up in today’s world is to evolve our habits accordingly.”

This philosophy shines through in every meticulously crafted item, combining classic Italian baking techniques with modern, plant-based ingredients to create pastries that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.

Easy Peasy welcomes diners with a menu that’s both vegan and gluten-free in its cosy café and brunch restaurant setting. The diverse selection caters to various tastes, featuring everything from comforting grilled cheese sandwiches and hearty bowls to fluffy waffles, refreshing smoothies, warming soups, and delectable cakes and baked goods. With an entirely gluten-free kitchen, guests with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities can dine with complete peace of mind.

                                                   Easy Peasy is a great choice for a nourishing vegan brunch. Photo © Lana Katsaros

Having recently moved from its original location on Niederbarnimstraße 16, Easy Peasy continues to create a welcoming atmosphere where companion animals are also warmly received, making it an ideal spot for pet owners looking to enjoy a thoughtfully crafted meal with their furry friends by their side.

Cookies and Cream stands out as a prestigious vegetarian fine dining destination, honoured with 1 Michelin star and 16 Gault & Millau points for its exceptional culinary artistry. The restaurant crafts sophisticated multi-course menus that change with the seasons, highlighting the best locally and regionally sourced ingredients.

Vegan diners will be delighted to find that each menu offers a thoughtfully created plant-based version available in either 5, 6, or 7 courses. Guests can enhance their dining experience with optional wine pairings or creative non-alcoholic beverage selections that complement each course perfectly. For the full Cookies and Cream experience, advance reservations through their website are recommended.

Quick service, takeaway and cafes

Lia’s Kitchen brings vibrant vegan fare to hungry diners with their mouth-watering selection of plant-based burgers and nourishing bowls. This hip, buzzing café serves up generous portions of mouthwatering burgers with crispy fries and fresh salad bowls.

The intimate space features a small bar and offers a wonderful outdoor terrace where guests can enjoy their meals in the fresh air. Visitors rave about the refreshing house-made lemonades that perfectly complement the hearty food offerings.

Bringing authentic Greek flavours to life with a plant-based twist, The Crazy Little Greek is a family-run vegan and gluten-free restaurant that has quickly become a local favourite. This charming eatery serves up an impressive array of traditional Greek cuisine, from creamy dips to hearty mains, fresh salads, and nourishing bowls.

The passionate owner infuses each dish with genuine enthusiasm, ensuring that every bite delivers the true essence of Greek cooking despite the dietary adaptations.

Given its popularity and intimate setting, with limited seating both upstairs and in the welcoming downstairs dining area, guests are strongly encouraged to call ahead for reservations.

Those who secure a table are rewarded, not just with exceptional food, but also warm, personal service that reflects the family’s dedication to sharing their culinary heritage in an inclusive way that everyone can enjoy.

Authentic Neapolitan flavours come alive at Al Catzone Pizzeria, a vibrant vegan establishment that opened its doors in May 2022. This easygoing destination in the very heart of Berlin offers a large variety of plant-based Napoli-style pizzas, traditional freselle, and complimentary drinks in a space characterised by understated decor and fun, lively energy.

The innovative approach to classic Italian cuisine demonstrates the pizzeria’s core belief that “Veganism and Dolce Vita can go hand in hand”, a philosophy they proudly share with every customer who walks through their doors.

Försters – Das Vegane Restaurant invites diners into a relaxed café atmosphere complete with pleasant outdoor seating and an innovative plant-based menu. Established in 2019, this vegan space specialises in reimagined classics and delectable desserts, all crafted with seasonal and regional produce.

Visitors can expect hearty comfort foods like savoury roulades served with red cabbage and potatoes, creamy risotto with green asparagus, crispy schnitzel, satisfying “meatballs,” and flavourful stuffed peppers. For those seeking something different, the broccoli tartare on hazelnut bread offers a fresh, raw alternative.

The restaurant also has something for sweet tooths with a daily rotating selection of cheezecakes and pies. To complement the meal, Försters serves refreshing gin tonics and a curated selection of beverages. Visitors should note that the restaurant operates cashless, accepting card payments only.

Grüngut Bistro has evolved beautifully since opening in January 2018, transitioning from vegetarian to fully vegan in 2021 while maintaining its reputation for exceptional quality. This small, casual lunch spot excels at the business “take-away” model, delivering quick, affordable vegan food in Berlin, without sacrificing flavour or quality.

The menu features comforting options like savoury panini, hearty soups served with bread, rich goulash, expertly crafted espresso drinks, and a tempting dessert case filled with delicious cakes. Despite its compact size, Grüngut efficiently handles high customer volume with friendly service that’s impressively fast. Locals and visitors alike appreciate the exceptional coffee, food, and desserts that consistently deliver on taste while remaining fairly priced.

Each day, Brammibal’s Donuts brings a fresh, rotating selection of handcrafted doughnuts featuring creative flavours and eye-catching decorations that make it challenging to choose just one. Beyond their signature doughnuts, the cafe takes pride in serving ethically sourced, direct trade coffee that pairs perfectly with their baked goods.

For those craving something cooler, they offer Oatly soft serve ice cream that can be enjoyed in multiple ways (tucked inside a doughnut, topped on one, or simply on its own with various delicious toppings). The modern establishment operates cashlessly, accepting only card payments for its plant-based indulgences.

Froindlichst Berlin Prenzlauer Berg brings the popular vegan restaurant chain to the heart of Berlin since 2021, continuing a success story that began in Hamburg back in 2015. As the third location of this beloved brand, sometimes affectionately called “the vegan musketeers”, it offers a diverse menu designed to satisfy various cravings.

Hungry visitors can enjoy everything from crispy pizzas and hearty burgers to fresh salads, warming soups, and indulgent cakes. The beverage selection complements the food perfectly with draft beers, a thoughtful wine selection, refreshing house-made lemonades, and nutritious smoothies. The restaurant maintains a welcoming atmosphere where companion animals are also warmly received, making it an ideal spot for plant-based diners who don’t want to leave their furry friends at home.

Cafe Neue Liebe brightens the trendy Prenzlauer Berg District with its intimate atmosphere and completely plant-based menu. This hip little cafe transitioned to a fully vegan establishment in August 2023, expanding its offerings to include sweet treats, morning favourites, and satisfying main dishes.

                                                   Cafe Neue Liebe is a perfect spot for people watching over an oat latte. Photo © Lana Katsaros

Visitors can start their day with freshly made waffles and buttery croissants or explore a diverse selection of globally inspired vegan cuisine throughout the day. The welcoming space extends outdoors with comfortable al-fresco seating, perfect for enjoying Berlin’s pleasant weather while people-watching in one of the city’s most vibrant neighbourhoods.

VEG’D Vegan Burgers is a delicious plant-based restaurant in Berlin with three locations throughout the city. All three offer incredible gourmet burgers with your choice of Beyond Meat, vegan chick’n, or soy patties, all with the restaurant’s homemade sauces.

The portions are huge, so come hungry! You can even finish your meal with something sweet from their dessert menu. Just remember, only cards are accepted, no cash.

Nest Plant Based Bistro is a fully vegan spot with an ever-changing menu of delicious salads, pastas, quiches, and creative fusion dishes, all complemented by fresh-pressed juices.

The Italian influence really shines through in their pasta – one of the owners is Italian, and you can taste the authentic touch in every bite. They have comfortable seating both inside and out, though space is limited. It’s no wonder they’ve earned a perfect 5-star rating on Google, it feels like a perfect respite.

Next is a lovely vegan café that’s a great breakfast spot with plant-based options. Vegan Backyard offers a delicious array of morning favourites, including gluten-free waffles, refreshing smoothies, and the signature eggdrop sandwich made completely without animal products. You’ll also find perfectly prepared scrambled tofu, tempting cakes, and buttery croissants to satisfy any craving.

What makes this place extra special is its in-house bakery, where you can order custom cakes for special occasions. Perfect for a relaxing morning meal or a sweet afternoon treat.

If you’re craving authentic Italian pizza with a plant-based twist, you’ll love Gemello Vegan Pizza. This spot specialises in “neo-neapolitan” style pizzas topped with the pizzeria’s own homemade meat and cheese alternatives. The rotating dessert menu features Italian classics like tiramisu, creative treats such as panna cotta with Oreos and blueberries, or in-house limoncello-soaked biscuit topped with crema, pistachios, and fresh lemon zest.

Having opened in 2021, they’ve already built a loyal following since moving from their original location on Schönfließer Str 16.

Vegan food shops in Berlin

The plant-based version of the popular REWE chain, REWE voll pflanzlich offers all the convenience of a regular supermarket but with an entirely vegan focus. You’ll find everything you’d expect from a typical market – a wonderful bakery section, ready-to-eat prepared foods, plus well-stocked refrigerated and frozen departments.

Shopping here is incredibly easy as they carry such a wide variety of products, making it the perfect one-stop shop for anyone following a plant-based lifestyle or just looking to incorporate more vegan options into their diet.

Die Vegane Fleischerei puts a plant-based spin on the traditional butcher shop experience. 


This unique spot lets you purchase their amazing vegan meats and cheeses either fresh from the display case or conveniently pre-packaged from their refrigerator section.

If you’re on the go, grab one of their delicious ready-made sandwiches for takeaway. Their impressive selection covers everything you could want – from various sausages to an array of cheeses, and they even offer plant-based alternatives to fish. It’s a paradise for vegans looking for those familiar flavours.

Dr Pogo offers a thoughtful shopping experience run by a dedicated collective. This unique store combines elements of a concept shop, grocery, and drugstore, which is all completely vegan, organic, and prioritises regional and fair-trade products.

You’ll find freshly baked bread, delicious sweets, and locally-made tofu from a Berlin producer. Their bulk section is impressive, with loose legumes, soy chunks, seeds, nuts, cereals, and grains that help reduce packaging waste.

Walking through the store, you’ll notice how carefully everything is arranged and displayed, making shopping for vegan food in Berlin a practical and pleasant experience for conscious consumers.

https://www.veganfoodandliving.com/vegan-lifestyle/ultimate-guide-to-vegan-food-in-berlin/

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