Sheffield may still be known as the ‘Steel City’, but today, it’s far more than just an industrial centre. Decades of renovation have transformed it into a city of culture and diversity, and nothing’s seen a bigger boost than its culinary scene. Not only is Sheffield now home to some of the UK’s best-rated and most popular food spots, but it’s also become a hub for great vegan and vegetarian restaurants.
If you’re paying the ‘Steel City’ a visit, these are the best vegan restaurants you can find in Sheffield.
Church – Temple of Fun
Arcade bar, music venue, vegan restaurant, all in one place... Church might just be the coolest place in Sheffield. The Kelham Island establishment is home to PlayStation gaming pods, retro arcade machines, and a pool machine that all visitors are welcome to play. A 220-capacity live music venue has hosted the likes of Deaf Havana and Annie Mac – no surprise given that the owner, Oliver Sykes, is the lead singer of the band Bring Me the Horizon. If that’s not a big enough reason to visit, the 100% vegan bar and street food kitchen will be; Church – Temple of Fun boasts vegan burgers, hot dogs, loaded fries, and a wide range of sides alongside delicious alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails.
What to try: The Syko burger might look strange with its charcoal-black bun, but it packs a flavour punch with its smoky bourbon sauce.
How to get there: You can take a number of ten-minute buses from Sheffield train station.
Dough Truck Pizza
Irresistibly cheesy, pizza was a sore subject in the vegan community for many years - but no longer. Dough Truck Pizza in Sheffield are serving up delicious vegan pizzas that would delight any visitor, whether you're a full-time vegan or trying something new. With an oeey-gooey vegan alternative to mozzarella on offer, many of their menu options can be made vegan for plant-based diners to enjoy, while they also offer a wide range of vegetarian and meaty pizzas too. Catering to a range of dietary preferences and serving up the best Neopolitan style pizza in Sheffield, Dough Truck Pizza is a must-visit spot for vegans (and non-vegans!).
What to try: The classic Marinara is naturally vegan and naturally delicious, while the Meridio can be prepared with vegan cheese for a spicy treat!
How to get there: A bus from Sheffield train station will take around twenty-five minutes.
Lovely Rita's Bakehouse
The clue is in the name - Lovely Rita's Bakehouse really is lovely. Serving up plant based pastries and breads to the people of Sheffield, this is one of the best vegan eateries in the city. Their menu changes regularly, with seasonal additions to keep you coming back for another taste. Whether you're waking up with a coffee and a chocolatine or prefer to tuck into a 'vausage roll' at lunchtime, Lovely Rita's is the perfect place for a pick-me-up. We recommend visiting when you're hungry - trust us, you won't want to pick just one pastry.
What to try: Make the most of their flaky vegan pastry and sample a croissant (or one of their seasonally flavoured croissants for an extra delight).
How to get there: From Sheffield station, you can get to Rita's on foot in less than twenty minutes, or take a 10-minute bus ride.
Herbivorous Vegan
Inspired by a visit to the USA where they saw a burgeoning vegan food scene, Herbivorous is a restaurant that grew out of passion for plant-based dining. Their goal is bringing the best of vegan food to the people of Sheffield (as well as Manchester and York, where they have locations) to show how good plant-based can be. Serving up comforting classics like mac & cheese, Philly cheesesteaks, and loaded burgers, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Herbivorous. You can enjoy an indulgent meal, knowing that you are doing better for the planet and for your health.
What to try: The cashew cheese sauce has to be tasted to be believed - try the mac & cheese.
How to get there: Located a fifteen-minute walk from Sheffield station, you can work up an appetite on the way.
Written by Julia