Vegetarian and Vegan Eating in Hampstead

Plant-based eating has moved well beyond novelty in Hampstead — several of the neighbourhood's best restaurants now happen to do excellent vegetarian cooking, and there are two dedicated vegan options worth knowing about.

Chutneys — Drummond Street

The best vegetarian restaurant within walking distance of Hampstead is technically in Euston — but Chutneys is worth the short journey. An entirely vegetarian South Indian restaurant that has been serving its extraordinary thalis and masala dosas for over 40 years. The buffet lunch is exceptional value. No meat has ever passed through the kitchen. One of the most quietly brilliant restaurants in North London.

Woodlands — Marylebone (for the journey)

Another South Indian vegetarian option — slightly further afield but worth knowing about. The idli sambar and the Mysore masala dosa are both exceptional.

In Hampstead Itself

Benito's Hat on Hampstead High Street does an entirely vegetarian burrito that holds its own against the meat versions. The Wells on Well Walk always has two or three serious vegetarian dishes on the menu — the kitchen takes them as seriously as the meat courses. Artigiano in Belsize Park has an excellent cacio e pepe and several seasonal vegetable starters that are among the best dishes in the area, full stop.

For Groceries

The Hampstead Butcher & Providore, despite the name, stocks an excellent range of plant-based products alongside its meat counter. The Saturday farmers' market usually has one or two stalls dedicated to vegetable produce. The Whole Foods on Barnet High Street is the nearest large dedicated health food supermarket.

Coffee Shops

Virtually all of Hampstead's coffee shops now offer oat milk as a default option, and most have plant-based food options. Ginger & White has always been strong on this; Brew on South End Road has a deliberately accommodating menu.