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Belfast’s Best Bites: Vegan and Vegetarian Edition

As a recent veggie, that has meant a new side quest: finding tasty dishes at the best spots in Belfast. So here is what I’ve discovered so far…

Two students eating outside Sawers
Enjoy a selection of vegan and veggie options at Sawers in Belfast city centre

Boojum

I am going to start with a surprising one, a Belfast classic, which at first sight you’d think is not suitable for a vegetarian or vegan. 

I had already heard the 3-bean chilli was a great vegetarian option and the recently I went to Boojum and had the Vegan Alt Pastor! I got this one because they ran out of the 3-bean chilli so thought I’d give it a try. Originally introduced for Veganuary, it’s safe to say I can see why it’s still there. It was tasty - especially with the pineapple. I’d recommend, go try it out! My friend also tried some and was impressed!

Student eating boojum burrito bowl

Extend your Veganuary with an array of options from Boojum

Maggie Mays

Another Belfast classic that you wouldn’t expect!

Originally an avid fan of their breakfast burrito, I did worry what the alternative would be like. No fear! Maggie Mays has an entire vegetarian menu as well as vegan. There are so many options! I went for the vegan breakfast burrito but was torn between so many!

With three destinations in Botanic, Malone Road and the city centre, you won't be short on options!

Breakfast burrito from Maggie Mays

The popular vegan breakfast burrito

Sawers

I was never a bagel fan until I went to Sawers when I first came to Queen's…

It's such a cool shop and with seats outside under a lovely exterior, I recommend here. They do a vegetarian version of their ciabattas, wraps and bagels. They have outside seating so this is a great place for a bite in the summer.

Student eating sandwich from Sawers

Enjoy a summer lunch at Sawers

Umi Falafel

This one needs no introduction. This is the perfect spot for veggies and vegans alike. In fact, I went here before I was even a veggie. A great spot for lunch, my favourite options are the grilled halloumi sandwich and the Palestinian falafel. And you can even make your own falafel bread too. Everything is vegan friendly and mostly under £10. They are also on Deliveroo if you fancy a late-night snack.

Jumoń

A totally vegan restaurant serving Asian inspired dishes using plant-based ingredients, this is perfect for all veggies and vegans.

It is on the pricier side, so if you are feeling boujee, celebrating or having a date night, this is a great option. With cool interior décor, it is a busy spot so make sure to book a table in advance!

Vegan food from Jumon in Belfast

Jumon offers a complete vegan menu

I got the Sayur Lodeh dish; with jackfruit curry, tofu, zucchini, eggplant, pickle lychee, salsa verde and brown rice. It was filling and tasty. And even the bowls are cool!

Little Wing pizzeria

With locations all over Belfast, such as Lisburn Road, the city centre and the rest of Northern Ireland, this is a must-visit! This was the first time I ever tried a calzone, and it was delicious.

They have a whole vegan menu and vegetarian options. My friends and I went recently and the food was very fresh. They do student discount and often have a lunch deal where you can get a small pizza and salad for under £7.

Two pizzas from Little Wing

Take advantage of your student discount at Little Wing

They were some places I’ve visited personally and recommend. Some general suggestions I’ve heard of include Seed and Slims Healthy Kitchen.

These are both on Lisburn Road and prioritise healthy and fresh nutritional dishes. Both have vegan and vegetarian options, but I am yet to try them. Although I have heard good things, especially when I went into Seed for a coffee, it looked like they had a lot of veggie choices.

For a fancier option, Home Restaurant also has an entire vegan, vegetarian and gluten free menu, so if you’re looking for somewhere to celebrate check them out!

I hope this has given you some food inspiration. Even places that are considered very un-veggie have surprised me. My quest for good food continues but I hope what I’ve found so far is a good starting point.

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Study French and International Relations

Jadzia Armstrong 

French and International Relations| Undergraduate Student | England

Hey! I am a 2nd year French and International Relations student from Nottingham, England. I am involved in various societies such as QUB Paddlesports, French and Politics. I also take part in weekly Italian classes at the Language Centre.

In my free time you'll probably find me drinking hot chocolate in various cafés with friends!

 Jadzia
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