7 vegan versions of childhood favourites that taste like the memory not the disappointment

From vegoutmag.com

By Jordan Cooper

These plant-based remakes of nostalgic classics actually deliver on the promise your taste buds remember 

Here's the thing about food nostalgia. It's not really about the food. It's about the feeling, the moment, the Saturday morning cartoons or the after-school ritual.

When you go vegan, nobody warns you that you might mourn a chicken nugget. Not because it was culinary genius, but because it was yours.

The good news? We're living in a golden age of vegan comfort food. The bad news? A lot of it still misses the mark. Some products nail the texture but forget the soul. Others get so caught up in being healthy that they forget we're chasing joy here.

I've tested more disappointing mac and cheese alternatives than I care to admit. But the winners exist, and they're worth celebrating. These seven remakes don't just approximate the original. They capture what made it matter in the first place.

1. Chicken nuggets that pass the dipping test

The nugget is a delivery system for sauce. That's the whole game. You need something with enough structural integrity to survive a aggressive dunk into honey mustard without falling apart in your hand. Simulate and Nuggs both understand this assignment.

What makes them work is the exterior crunch. That slightly greasy, golden shell that shatters just right. The inside needs to be tender but not mushy. Too many brands focus on protein content and forget that nobody ever loved a nugget for its nutritional profile.

Look for options with a breading that crisps up in the air fryer. Twenty minutes at 400 degrees usually does it. Let them cool for exactly two minutes before eating. Trust me on this.

2. Mac and cheese that doesn't taste like vitamins

Nutritional yeast is not cheese. I need everyone to accept this. It's a wonderful ingredient with its own merits, but when you're trying to recreate the neon orange comfort of boxed mac and cheese, nooch alone won't get you there.

The secret is cashew cream plus a good vegan cheddar that actually melts. Violife and Follow Your Heart both make shreds that behave properly under heat. The texture matters as much as the flavour. You want that coating action, where every noodle gets wrapped in sauce. Add a splash of oat milk to keep things loose.

A tiny bit of mustard powder and garlic brings depth without announcing itself. The goal is to take a bite and feel eight years old again, not like you're eating something that's good for you.

3. Fish sticks for the freezer-aisle nostalgic

Gardein's fishless filets quietly became one of the best products in the vegan freezer section. They've got that flaky interior and crispy coating that defined Friday night dinners for a lot of us. The tartar sauce pairing is non-negotiable.

Make your own tartar with vegan mayo, chopped pickles, a squeeze of lemon, and fresh dill. The store-bought stuff works fine, but homemade takes thirty seconds and tastes noticeably better. Serve these on a plate with some crinkle-cut fries and you've got a meal that hits different.

The key is not overthinking it. This isn't fancy food. It's comfort food, and comfort doesn't need to be complicated.

4. Grilled cheese that actually pulls

The stretch. The pull. That moment when you separate the two halves and watch the cheese bridge between them. This is what we're after. For years, vegan cheese couldn't do this. Now it can, if you choose wisely.

Miyoko's mozzarella and Good Planet's American slices both melt beautifully. The bread matters more than you think. Something sturdy like sourdough holds up to butter and heat without getting soggy.

Use vegan butter generously on the outside, cook low and slow, and press down gently with your spatula. You want golden brown, not burnt. Patience is the ingredient nobody lists. Pair with tomato soup and suddenly you're home sick from school in the best possible way.

5. Ice cream sandwiches worth the brain freeze

The ratio of cookie to cream is everything. Too much cookie and it's dry. Too much ice cream and it's a structural disaster. So Delicious and Tofutti both make versions that nail the balance.

The cookie should be slightly soft, yielding to your teeth without crumbling. The ice cream needs to be cold enough to hold its shape but not so frozen that you can't bite through it.

Let it sit out of the freezer for about three minutes before eating. This is the sweet spot. The chocolate cookie, vanilla cream combination remains the classic for a reason. Some things don't need reinvention.

They just need a plant-based version that respects the original.

6. Pepperoni pizza that doesn't apologize

Vegan pepperoni used to be a tragedy. Rubbery discs that tasted like smoked sadness. But Hooray Foods changed the game with their version that actually crisps up and curls at the edges like the real thing.

The curling matters. It creates those little cups that hold tiny pools of oil. That's the good stuff. Layer it on a pizza with a cheese that melts properly and you've got something that would fool most people at a party.

The trick is high heat. Get your oven as hot as it goes. A pizza stone helps if you have one. The crust should be slightly charred in spots.

This is Friday night pizza energy. No apologies, no health claims, just satisfaction.

7. PB&J that proves simple still wins

Okay, this one's already vegan. But hear me out. The PB&J of your childhood probably involved Jif and Welch's on Wonder Bread. There's a specific softness and sweetness to that combination that artisanal nut butters and organic jam don't replicate.

Sometimes nostalgia means embracing the processed stuff. A creamy peanut butter, grape jelly, and soft white bread sandwich isn't trying to be nutritious. It's trying to be exactly what it always was.

Cut it diagonally, obviously. The triangle shape is part of the experience. This is the one item on the list that requires no substitution, just permission. Permission to eat something simple and sweet and remember that food doesn't always have to be an achievement.

Final thoughts

Nostalgia is tricky because it's never really about accuracy. You're not trying to recreate a taste. You're trying to recreate a feeling. The best vegan versions of childhood favourites understand this. They don't just mimic ingredients. They honour the experience.

Not every attempt will land. Some products will disappoint you, and that's fine. The search is part of it. When you finally find the nugget or the mac and cheese or the ice cream sandwich that transports you back, it's worth every failed experiment along the way.

These foods aren't just about being vegan. They're about proving that choosing plants doesn't mean abandoning joy. Your inner kid deserves that grilled cheese. Go make it happen.

https://vegoutmag.com/food-and-drink/s-bt-7-vegan-versions-of-childhood-favorites-that-taste-like-the-memory-not-the-disappointment/

These are the UK’s best vegan fish and chip shops – Did your local make the list?

From veganfoodandliving.com

Got a craving for a takeaway? Here are the best vegan fish and chip shops in the UK to pop in for a cruelty-free chippy tea!

There is no denying that Brits love their fish and chips – there’s even a national day for it. Visiting the seaside is quintessentially British, but the national habit of indulging in a cod and chips dinner by the sea is environmentally destructive.

Our oceans are essential to human and non-human survival, providing more than half of the world’s oxygen, and in turn, absorbing 50 times more carbon dioxide than the atmosphere.

We are currently facing a crisis of overfishing which is depleting the health of our oceans, in addition to a global marine plastic problem – nearly half of which is down to abandoned fishing gear.

But being vegan and protecting our planet doesn’t mean missing out on British traditions, as ‘fish’ can be recreated from plant sources such as tofu, banana blossom, and even jackfruit.

These ingredients mimic the delicate, flaky texture of fish when battered and fried, while seaweed, nori flakes or kombu are often added to bring that signature “sea” flavour. Some restaurants also use pea protein or wheat-based alternatives shaped into fillets for an even more realistic bite.

So whether you prefer a classic crispy batter or something more inventive, there’s now a wealth of options that deliver all the nostalgia of fish and chips, without the environmental cost.

Here are the top places to get delicious vegan fish and chips in the UK, in no particular order:

1. The No Catch Co., Brighton, East Sussex

This 100% vegan eatery is a must-visit for meat-free diners in Brighton. The menu is impressively varied, offering everything from traditional battered ‘cod’ to popcorn prawnz, lemon ‘shrimp’ and even vegan calamari.

There’s also a jumbo battered vegan saveloy for anyone craving a proper chippy-style feast.

And of course, everything can be paired with crispy chips, mushy peas and a generous helping of their homemade tartare sauce.

The aptly named No Catch Co. is a fully vegan chippy in the seaside town of Brighton, serving up a creative menu of chip shop favourites with a vegan twist. Photo © The No Catch Co.

Address: 127a Kings Road, Brighton BN1 2FA | Opening hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 12:30pm – 8:00pm, Sunday: 12:30pm – 7:00pm | See the menu: nocatch.co/menu

2. Elliot’s Fish & Chips, Hunstanton, Norfolk

A favourite on the Hunstanton seafront, Elliot’s is a hybrid fish and chip kiosk that really does cater for everyone, vegans included.

Alongside their traditional menu, you’ll find a solid range of plant-based options such as vegan “fish” fillets, crispy battered sausages and plenty of classic sides.

It’s the perfect spot to grab a salty, satisfying chippy supper after a day at the beach, whether you’re fully vegan or just curious to try something different.

Address: Unit 12 South Promenade, Hunstanton PE36 5BF | Opening hours: Friday: 16:00 – 20:00, Saturday: 12:00 – 18:00, Sunday 12:00 – 16:00 | facebook.com/Elliotshunstanton

3. The Happy Fish., Edinburgh, Scotland

Scotland’s first fully vegan fish and chippy lives inside The Dog House pub, and yes, it’s as fun and dog-friendly as it sounds.

The Happy Fish serves all the classics, from tofish and battered vegan sausages to their wildly popular battered haggis.

You’ll also find chicken-style tenders, nuggets, plenty of dipping sauces and, for dessert, battered Oreos and Mars bars for the full Scottish chippy experience (minus the fish).

Address: U18-22 Clerk St, Edinburgh EH8 9HX | Opening hours: Monday: 16:00 – 22:00, Tuesday: 16:00 – 21:00, Wednesday – Thursday: 16:00 – 22:00, Friday – Saturday: 13:00 – 23:00, Sunday 16:00 – 22:00 | instagram.com/thehappyfishvg 

4. Sea & Earth, Eastwood, Nottingham

Sea & Earth blends classic chippy favourites with a huge vegan-friendly twist, and it’s done with real variety and care.

Sea & Earth boasts a tempting plant-based menu full of classic chippy favourites, from 'fish' and chips to mock scampi. Photo © Sea & Earth

Their menu includes banana-blossom “vish”, mock scampi, battered vegan sausages, vegan nuggets, and vish-cakes, all served up with proper chips, mushy peas or curry sauce for that full fish-and-chips feeling.

For vegans (or anyone curious), it’s a chance to enjoy all the comfort-food classics without compromise. If you’re after something a bit different, maybe loaded chips, vegan battered sausage, or a hearty vish-cake meal, Sea & Earth delivers a solid plant-based chippy experience.

Address: 95 Nottingham Rd, Eastwood, Nottingham NG16 3AJ | Opening hours: Monday – Thursday 11:30 – 21:00, Friday – Saturday: 11:30 – 21:30, Sunday 16:30 – 20:30 | See the menu: seaearth.co.uk

5. Harbour Lights, Falmouth, Cornwall

This award-winning chippie may not be totally vegan, but it does offer an animal-free option, which is famous in the area.

The standout is their tofish: tofu marinated in brine and lemon juice, wrapped in nori and fried to give it that unmistakably “fishy” flavour.

You can also order jackfruit “fish” cakes, classic chips and vegan mayo for dipping, ideal for enjoying by the harbour on a sunny day.

Address: Arwenack St, Falmouth TR11 3LH | Opening hours: Sunday – Thursday 12:00 – 20:00, Friday – Saturday: 12:00 – 20:30 | See the menu: harbourlights.co.uk

6. Sutton & Sons, Hackney, London

Sutton & Sons launched its vegan menu back in 2018, and the plant-based selection is now a fixture at all three of its London locations.

Their signature banana-blossom “fish” is a must-try, with a surprisingly flaky texture that works perfectly in a crisp batter.

The menu doesn’t stop there, think vegan scampi, a hearty “fish” burger and even a retro-style “prawn” cocktail. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to visit more than once just to make your way through the options.

Address: 218 Graham Rd, London E8 1BP | Opening hours: Monday – Thursday 12:00 – 22:00, Friday – Saturday: 12:00 – 22:30, Sunday: 12:00 – 22:00 | harbourlights.co.uk

7. Shakey Shakey,  Ramsgate, Kent

Shakey Shakey is a classic seaside chippy with a surprisingly big vegan menu. Plant-based diners can dig into battered “fish” and chips, a tofish burger, vegan “prawns” or a hearty fishless cake, plus a choice of burgers and vegan chicken.

All the usual chippy sides are there too, such as chips, mushy peas, curry sauce, gravy and beans, making it easy to put together a proper, comforting plate of seaside food.

Address: 75 High St, Ramsgate CT11 9RJ | Opening hours: Monday – Thursday 12:00 – 22:00, Friday – Saturday: 12:00 – 22:30, Sunday: 12:00 – 22:00 | harbourlights.co.uk

8. Simpsons Fish and Chips, Gloucester

This well-loved chippy, with spots in Stroud and Cheltenham,  expanded its offerings after a nudge from PETA, and its vegan menu has been popular ever since.

Expect hearty plant-based choices like Tofish, battered vegan sausages, pea fritters, pineapple fritters and frickles (deep-fried pickles).

There are also vegan curries and plenty of sides, making it easy to build a proper chippy feast without missing out on any essentials.

Address: 73-75 Priors Road, Cheltenham GL52 5AL | Opening hours: Sunday – Monday 16:00 – 21:00, Tuesday – Saturday: 12:00 – 14:00, and 16:00 – 21:00 | simpsonsfishandchips.com

9. Leon’s Fish Bar, Chesterfield, Derbyshire

Leon’s has one of the most extensive vegan chippy menus you’ll find anywhere, with options ranging from comfort-food classics to fully loaded meals.

Their vish and chips is a staple, but you can also tuck into vegan sausages (plain or battered), chick nuggets, chick strips, pies, fritters and even a vegan doner when it’s available. The burger selection is huge too, with everything from a vish burger to a stacked “Beast Burger” packed with onion rings, hash browns and sauces.

If you’re really hungry, the Veast Box, which contains a mix of vegan chicken, sausages, onion rings, kebab veat and chips. It truly is the ultimate plant-based feast.

Address: 53 Market St, Clay Cross, Chesterfield S45 9JQ | Opening hours: Monday 17:00 – 21:00, Tuesday – Wednesday: 15:00 – 21:00, Thursday: 12:00 – 14:00 & 17:00 – 21:00, Friday- Saturday 11:30 – 21:00 | See the menu: leonsfishbar.co.uk

10. Papa’s Fish and Chips

Papa’s is an award-winning fish and chip chain with 11 locations across the UK, and although it isn’t fully vegan, it does offer a solid plant-based option.

Their signature tofish, coated in their secret-recipe batter, is served with traditional chips and gives a satisfying taste of the classic without going off-menu.

A handy choice if you’re travelling or fancy a quick vegan chippy fix wherever you are.

Papa's is a national chain of fish and chip shops which offer vegan fish and chips made from tofu. Photo © Papa's Fish and Chips

11. Lucy’s Chips, Norwich, Norfolk

A long-standing favourite at Norwich Market, Lucy’s Chips now caters brilliantly to plant-based diners.

The stall serves vegan “vish”, battered tofu sausage and crispy Quorn “fishies” fillets, all cooked to order and perfect with a portion of proper chips.

With seating available nearby, it’s an easy and tasty stop for a casual lunch in the heart of the city.

Address: 114, 115 Market Pl, Norwich NR2 1ND | Opening hours: Monday – Saturday: 10:00 – 16:00, Sunday 10:00 – 15:00 | instagram.com/lucyschips

12. Mono Cafe and Bar, Glasgow, Scotland

A Glasgow institution for plant-based dining, Mono Café and Bar is known for its legendary vegan fish and chips, and the generous portion sizes certainly help earn the title.

Their to-fish is made from nori-marinated tofu, battered and served with twice-fried chips, tartare sauce and lemon for the full comfort-food experience.

Beyond that, the menu is packed with creative vegan dishes, from the indulgent battered “pizza crunch” supper to kebab-loaded fries, kimchi fries and a punchy salt-and-chilli spice bag. It’s a brilliant spot for anyone craving a proper chippy-style feast with a bit of Glasgow flair.

Address: 12, Kings Court, King St, Glasgow G1 5RB | Opening hours: Monday – Sunday 10:00 – 23:00 | See the menu: monocafebar.com

13. Mr Chippy, York

Mr Chippy is a long-running favourite in the heart of York, and its vegan options make it an easy stop for plant-based diners.

The standout is the Banana Blossom Fish & Chips, which offers that classic flaky texture with a golden, crunchy batter. You can also tuck into a vegan jumbo sausage, onion rings, pineapple rings and even vegan tartare sauce to round out the chippy experience.

It’s simple, traditional and exactly what you want from a no-nonsense chip shop.

Address: 2 Church Street, York, YO1 8BA | Opening hours: Monday – Thursday 11:oo – 20:30, Friday – Saturday 11:00 – 22:00, Sunday 12:00 – 20:30 | See the menu: mrchippyyork.co.uk/menu

14. Land & Sea Fish & Chip Shop, Falkirk, Scotland

This traditional Falkirk chippy dedicates every Tuesday to a fully plant-based menu, all cooked in separate vegan oil.

The star of the show is the battered Golden Vish Fillet, but there’s plenty more to choose from, including vegan black pudding, sausages and popcorn chick’n.

You’ll also find all the classic chip-shop extras, such as haggis, nuggets, potato fritters, onion rings, giving plant-based diners the full chippy experience with no compromise on choice or flavour.

Address: Main Street, Falkirk FK2 0PX | Opening hours: Monday – Sunday 16:30 – 20:00 | See the menu: land-n-sea.co.uk/food-menu

15. #FISH, Edinburgh, Scotland

Fish Edinburgh might look like a classic chippy at first glance, but it has quietly become one of the city’s biggest vegan takeaway and delivery spots, with around 30% of its sales now coming from plant-based dishes.

The team prides itself on being inclusive in both its staffing and its menu, offering a solid selection of vegan options that sit comfortably alongside the traditional fare.

It’s a great pick for anyone in Edinburgh looking for a reliable, well-loved vegan chippy option without needing to hunt down a specialist venue.

Address: 98 Marchmont Road, Edinburgh EH9 1HR | Opening hours: Monday – Thursday 13:00 – 21:00, Friday 12:00 – 22:00, Saturday – Sunday 12:00 – 21:00 | See the menu: eatfishedinburgh.com

A whopping 30% of Edinburgh chippy #FISH's sales now coming from its plant-based dishes. Photo © #FISH

16. Chish and Fips, Norwich

This no-frills fast-food chippy offers a few vegan-friendly choices, including battered sausages, Pukka pies and a plant-based version of traditional battered fish.

It’s a simple, convenient option for grabbing a quick vegan chippy meal in the city.

Address: 53 Angel Rd, Norwich NR3 3HR | Opening hours: Tuesday – Friday 12:00 – 13:30 & 16:30 – 21:00, Saturday 11:45  – 13:30 & 16:30 – 21:00 | facebook.com/chishnfipsnorwich

17. Smarts Fish & Chips, Witney, Oxfordshire

Smarts has gone all-in on plant-based options with its generously sized “Vegan Heaven” menu, and it really lives up to the name.

Alongside its popular battered vegan “fish”, you’ll find everything from crispy cauliflower bites and vegan nuggets to sausages, onion rings and hearty plant-based burgers.

It’s a proper chippy-style feast with plenty of choice, making it a great spot for vegan diners and mixed groups alike.

Address: 50 Market Square, Witney OX28 6A | Opening hours: Monday – Thursday 10:00 – 22:30, Friday – Saturday 10:00 – 01:00, Sunday 12:00 – 21:00 | See the menu: smartsfishchipswitney.co.uk/order-now/vegan-heaven

18. Brockley’s Rock, Brixton, London

Down in south-east London, Brockley’s Rock has become a popular spot for vegan diners thanks to its growing plant-based menu.

Alongside its vegan fish steaks, you’ll find fishless fingers, vegan sausages (battered or plain) and even slices of vegan cake if you’ve still got space afterwards. It’s a great example of a traditional chippy making room for everyone, and doing it well.

Address: 317 Brockley Rd, London SE4 2QZ | Opening hours: Monday – Saturday 12:00 – 22:00, Sunday 14:00 – 22:00 | facebook.com/chishnfipsnorwich

19. Veggie Corner, Coventry

Veggie Corner is a local favourite for plant-based comfort food, offering a fully vegetarian and vegan-friendly take on classic takeaway dishes.

Their menu covers all the essentials, from crispy “fish”-style options to burgers, wraps and hearty chip-shop sides, making it an easy go-to whether you’re after a quick lunch or a proper chippy-style treat.

Veggie Corner's extensive menu covers all the essentials, from crispy “fish”-style options to burgers and classic chippy tea sides. Photo © TheVeganBuddhist/HappyCow

It’s a simple, no-fuss spot that consistently delivers good portions and plenty of choice for vegan diners in Coventry.

Address: 1a Clay Ln, Coventry CV2 4LH | Opening hours: Monday – Thursday 15:30 – 22:00, Friday – Saturday 12:00 – 22:00, Sunday 16:30 – 22:00 | See the menu: veggiecorneronline.co.uk

20. Capplemans Fish & Chips, Scarborough, Yorkshire

Capplemans isn’t just a seaside chippy, it’s a go-to for plant-based diners in Scarborough thanks to a well-stocked vegan menu.

Their vegan line-up includes battered “Vish & Chips” (soya-based “fish” in crispy batter), battered tofu, vegan sausages, vegan fish fingers, and even more indulgent options like pineapple fritters and “mushy-pea bombs.”

On top of that, there are vegan-friendly sides such as chips, curry sauce and tartare, making it easy to build a full-on chippy meal without compromise.

According to vegan reviewers, all the vegan items are cooked in a separate fryer and clearly labelled, which is a big plus for dietary clarity.

Address: 33 Raleigh St, Scarborough YO12 7LG | Opening hours: Saturday – Monday, 16:30 – 19:00, Thursday – Saturday 11:30 – 13:30, Tuesday – Friday 16:30 – 19:30, | See the menu: scarborough.capplemans.com/collection/vegan

21. Laura’s Fish Bar, Whitley Bay, Tyne and Wear

Tucked away in Whitley Bay, Laura’s Fish Bar is a proper seaside chippy with a dedicated vegan menu that makes it a go-to for plant-based fish and chips near the coast.

Their banana-blossom “fish” and chips is the headline grabber, but that’s just the start: they also offer vegan battered sausage, vegan fishcakes, cheesy chips, and all the classic sides like mushy peas, curry sauce, tartare sauce, gravy, and chips cooked just as you’d expect from a traditional chippy.

Address:  32 Station Rd, Whitley Bay, NE26 2RD | Opening hours: Tuesday – Thursday, 16:30 – 21:30, Friday – Saturday 11:30 – 21:30| See the menu: laurasfishbaronline.com/order-now/vegan-and-vegetarian

https://www.veganfoodandliving.com/features/best-vegan-fish-and-chip-shops-in-the-uk/