Often considered the vegan capital of Europe and one of the top cities for vegans in the world, according to Happy Cow, Berlin is a bit of a culinary destination for the plant-based. From budget-friendly options through to fine dining, the city has plenty to choose from. 

Before the fall of the Berlin Wall, Berlin wasn’t much of a foodie destination, but since the city opened up, waves of immigrants moved in to capitalise on cheap rents – including many artists, who brought their philosophies and lifestyles with them – resulting in the city blossoming into a hub for alternative living, including veganism. The trend is only accelerating in response to the climate crisis, with approximately 3 million Germans taking part in Veganuary in 2022.  

These are my top vegan and vegetarian destinations in Berlin. Many of them are close to the destinations on my walking tours, but if you’re after a more tailored approach to take in some foodie hot spots, then feel free to get in touch and book a custom private tour! 

Bakeries

FREA Bakery  

Vegan and zero-waste bakery FREA is a must-visit when you’re in Berlin. They do an epic sourdough along with a daily selection of pastries, rolls and seasonal dishes in their centrally located Mitte café.

Plants and Flours Bakery 

Just over a year since it opened its doors, this gorgeous little coffee shop and cake studio has become responsible for some of the most beautiful cakes I’ve ever seen. Started by Laura Skandy and her pup Wanja, Plants and Flours is only open Friday to Sunday from 1pm to 6pm, so plan ahead to make sure you can try her famous carrot cake.  

Brammibal's Donuts 

The perfect place to stop after a walking tour in Berlin – Brammibal’s Donuts are the best in the city. Founded in 2015 to show that plant-based food could be just as good, if not better, than the alternative, the company has now grown to 120 people in Berlin and Hamburg. Check out their seasonal specials for unique flavour combinations – this Christmas they’ve got an indulgent Cherry Gingerbread special. You can find Brammibal’s near most of my walking tours, with stores on Alexanderplatz, Potsdamer Platz, Friedrichshain and various other locations around the city. 

Budget options 

Veg'd 

If you’re a burger fiend, then you’ll want to stop by Veg’d. These plant-based gourmet burgers raise the bar for vegan meats, with Beyond Meat, vegan chick*n and soy-based patties, as well as crunchy nuggets on the menu. They also offer a lunch deal from Monday to Friday, where you can get a burger and fries for €10.90 between 12 and 4pm.  

Caphe HOA 

Boasting 5 stars on Tripadvisor at the time or writing, Caphe HOA is another favourite with Berliners. The cosy atmosphere, budget-friendly menu and flavour-packed Vietnamese dishes make this a great place to stop by for a bite. The menu has both vegetarian and vegan options and is perfect for sharing.  

Momos 

For a quick bite that packs a punch without the lofty price tag, check out Momos in its central Mitte location. The whole dumpling menu is vegetarian, with the majority also being fully vegan. This small biz is fully organic, and they offer both savoury and sweet options – something for everyone! 

Bodhicitta Vegan Bowl 

A bit off the beaten path, but if you find yourself in west Berlin, then a trip to Bodhicitta Vegan Bowl won’t disappoint. This family-run Vietnamese restaurant prepares everything fresh, from their homemade seitan to their crispy tofu and spring rolls. It’s definitely one of the best vegan restaurants in Berlin if you’re after a nourishing bowl of veggie goodness. 

Popular restaurants and cafés

Blumental  

Are you after a bright and airy, super trendy brunch spot with indoor plants galore?  

Then make your way to Blumental. One of the best vegetarian cafés/restaurants in Berlin, it also offers plenty of vegan options and hosts live music nights on Wednesdays.  

Das Försters  

Vegan schnitzel anyone? Das Försters is a classic German restaurant serving up all the traditional favourites with a plant-based twist. From meatballs and roulades to kebabs and schnitzels, this fully organic restaurant is perfect for those wanting an (almost) authentic German culinary experience.   

Cookies Cream 

For a truly unforgettable dining experience, then the Michelin star Cookies Cream is a must-visit during your stay. The tasting menu starts from 4 courses, or if you’re feeling ambitious, you can opt for the full 7 courses. They also offer wine pairing as well as non-alcoholic options. Bookings are crucial here, so plan ahead if you’re wanting to experience an incredible meal that treads lightly on the planet. 

My local favourites 

Alaska Bar 

For an evening haunt, head over to Alaska Bar for a fun night out with delicious vegan tapas. The bar has a home-away-from-home feel, with quirky, eclectic décor and the most amazing patatas bravas – you can even buy the spicy oil they drizzle on top to recreate the dish at home. It’s also an LGBTQI+-friendly space and very popular with locals. 

1990 Vegan Living 

Designed to feel like you’re dining in a Vietnamese family home, 1990 Vegan Living is one of the best vegan restaurants in Berlin for homemade, tasty food that’s made with love. The tapas-style menu offers flavourful dishes with fresh Vietnamese flavours, designed to share.  

Mana Food 

Calling all brunch fans, this café is one of the best in the city and the perfect way to kick off your day in Berlin. Mana Food prioritises local and seasonal produce, so you can expect a fresh menu throughout the year with both savoury and sweet options.   

Element Five 

With its pan-Asian tapas concept, this place is perfect for sharing with friends (or trying lots of things yourself). Located just south-east of the city by Görlitzer Park, Element Five is a favourite with locals. 

I hope you can try a few of these places during your visit to Berlin; let me know if you have any other favourites! If you’d like to learn more about Berlin and try a vegan curry wurst while you’re here, join me for my ‘off the beaten path’ tour.