With Veganuary at the forefront of everyone’s minds, many people are feeling inspired by the wide variety of vegan dishes available and are keen to delve more into this ethical lifestyle choice. As the Vegan Capital of the World, Israel* offers a host of tantalising vegan friendly food just waiting to be experienced!
Israel has the highest number of vegans per capita* and with the vegan diet being an integral part of Israel’s culinary scene there is a range of speciality restaurants and cafes, from health focused restaurants to fast food eateries, scattered throughout Tel Aviv and Jerusalem for all to enjoy.
Israeli cuisine is closely tied to the healthy Mediterranean diet – with a focus on fresh vegetables, fruits, legumes and olive oil – and fresh produce locally sourced and readily available, allowing for veganism to become a flourishing part of the Israeli food scene.
A small homely café in Tel Aviv sits at the forefront of the country’s vegan culture – Anastasia. The first eatery to open with an entirely vegan menu they are famous for their homemade soy, almond and rice milks alongside their wide variety of fresh salads and raw deserts. If you’re looking for a restaurant known for its inventive twists on classic dishes and intriguing flavours try Zakaim for dishes like roasted cauliflower with tzatziki.
There’s also an array of vegan fast food eateries available like ice cream joint Gelateria Secilianna in Tel Aviv known for its pistachio and halva flavoured soy ice creams andThe Vegan Shawarma in Jerusalem – the perfect spot for a late-night fix with their tasty vegan shawarmas, burgers and pizza.
Israeli culture, defined by an exciting melting pot of nationalities and cultures, makes it the perfect place for a vegan movement, due to the nations love for innovation. You don’t have to venture far in Israel to experience some fantastic vegan cuisine with some of the most well-known and loved national street food dishes like hummus and falafel pittas available on most street corners.
For more details on accommodation, things to do and transportation in Israel, please visit goisrael.com.
