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Which cities or countries offer the best vegan cooking experiences, and why?

Richie Bates

As a vegan and a frequent traveler, I am always on the lookout for the best vegan cooking experiences around the world. Over the years, I have been lucky enough to explore many cities and countries that offer exceptional vegan food, and it's hard to pick just a few. However, here are some of my favorites and why I think they stand out.

First and foremost, I have to mention the vegan mecca that is Berlin. The German capital is famous for its thriving vegan scene, with countless restaurants, cafes, and markets catering to vegans and vegetarians. What sets Berlin apart is not just the variety of options available but also the quality of the food. Many of the eateries in Berlin are chef-owned and operated, meaning they take pride in their dishes and use the freshest, most flavorful ingredients. Plus, the prices in Berlin are relatively affordable, making it an excellent destination for budget-conscious travelers.

Another city that I highly recommend for vegans is Tel Aviv, Israel. Israel may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of vegan cuisine, but Tel Aviv is a culinary hub with a rapidly growing vegan community. There are vegan options on almost every menu, including many traditional Israeli dishes that have been adapted to be plant-based. Israeli cuisine typically features lots of fresh produce, herbs, and spices, making it an ideal option for vegans seeking healthy and flavorful meals.

On the other side of the world, I have to give a shoutout to Melbourne, Australia, which has been named the world's most vegan-friendly city on multiple occasions. Melbourne has a vibrant foodie culture, and its vegan scene is no exception. From burgers to sushi to ice cream, you can find vegan versions of just about any food you can imagine in Melbourne. But what I love most about Melbourne is the creativity and innovation of its chefs. They use locally sourced, seasonal ingredients to create dishes that are both delicious and visually stunning.

Moving onto countries that offer excellent vegan food, I have to mention India. Indian cuisine is rich in spices, aromas, and flavors, making it an ideal option for vegans who want to enjoy a variety of tasty dishes. Many Indian dishes are naturally vegan or can be easily modified to be vegan by omitting certain ingredients. Additionally, Indian cuisine features a lot of lentils, pulses, and vegetables, making it a great source of protein for vegans. If you're a fan of spicy food, you'll definitely want to visit India.

Finally, I want to give a nod to Italy. Despite being known for its love of cheese and meat, Italy has a surprisingly robust vegan scene. Italian cuisine is all about simple, fresh ingredients, and many classic dishes can be made vegan with a few simple substitutions. Plus, Italy is home to a variety of plant-based specialty products, such as vegan cheese and gelato. It's worth noting that vegan options in Italy may be a bit more limited outside of major cities, but with a bit of research, you can find some incredible food wherever you go.

Of course, there are many other cities and countries that offer excellent vegan cooking experiences - these are just a few of my personal favorites. No matter where you go, I recommend doing some research beforehand to find vegan-friendly eateries and markets. And don't be afraid to try new things - some of my favorite vegan dishes have been ones that I never would've tried before going vegan. Happy travels and happy eating!