Here’s a student’s guide to all the Exeter vegan hotspots for Veganuary this year

With New Year resolutions in full swing, why not add Veganuary to your list? There are huge benefits to going vegan (for even as little as a month). This includes significant improvements in health and well-being as well as making more environmentally conscious decisions.

The rules for Veganuary are simple and is fairly self-explanatory: Go vegan for the entirety of January.

As a proud vegetarian for over half of my life now, I always do my best to make sustainable food choices wherever possible, and very often, limiting animal product consumption is a great way to start this journey for yourself.

Exeter as a city is incredibly rich in its plant-based scene; from restaurants to cafes – we truly have it all. Below are my recommendations for the best vegetarian and vegan spots to visit this month and beyond.

Whether it’s for sustainability, health, simply trying something new, or seeking a new challenge, these Exeter spots are some of the best starting points for your Veganuary journey.

1. The Flat – Fore Street

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An excellent venue for any occasion from dates to dinners with friends, The Flat is known for its vegetarian and vegan pizzas and cocktails.

With their entire kitchen being easily adjustable to a vegan diet upon request and with the place feeling so cosy and relaxing, I would definitely recommend putting it on your lists.

2. How On Earth Plant-Based Deli – South Street

This independent deli is a staple for shopping for vegan replacements for everyday ingredients such as “meats” and “cheeses”, making your Veganuary journey easier and more accessible.

If you choose to, their lunch menu and especially their sandwiches are incredible, and they also have so many gluten-free options should you require.

3. The Cheeky Vegan – Cathedral Green

Having re-opened under a new ownership a couple of months ago, The Cheeky Vegan is a fully vegan café just outside of Cathedral Green, making the location very accessible for us Exeter students.

They serve great coffee, and since their entire food and drinks menu is vegan, you cannot go wrong here during Veganuary and beyond.

Often, there’s also a specials menu, too, so be sure to check that out upon your visit.

4. Sacred Grounds – McCoys Arcade

Once you’re making your way through Fore Street, you’ll find the McCoys Arcade full of independent boutiques and shops, where you’ll also find Sacred Grounds, yet another fully vegan café.

Their team is always so innovative in their creations, and the quality of their food and drinks is always top-notch. Their menu also changes every season to incorporate the freshest ingredients, so you’re guaranteed to find the best quality locally sourced food there all year around.

5. VEGBOX – The Quay

Known for its brunches and quality ethically sourced coffee, VEGBOX is an excellent vegetarian and vegan brunch spot, and it serves as one of the best post-run treats for me, whether through its coffee, pastries, or brunch wraps.

Better yet: VEGBOX also offer an incredible student deal every weekday, where you can get any drink and any food item for £10 – what’s there not to love.