December 31, 2024

Best Vegan-Friendly Destinations in South Africa | Ultimate Guide

Did you know South Africa has seen a stunning 50% increase in vegan establishments since 2019?

From busy urban markets to eco-lodges, the Rainbow Nation is a plant-based paradise!

Do you want to know about the top vegan-friendly spots in South Africa?

I’ve explored every corner of this beautiful country. I want you to discover the best vegan-friendly destinations across South Africa, including top restaurants, accommodation and travel tips.

So, I wrote this ultimate guide.

Get ready for a culinary adventure. It will blend South African heritage with innovative, plant-based cuisine.

Table of Contents

Cape Town: The Vegan-Friendly Capital of Africa

Let me tell you why Cape Town completely blew my mind as a vegan foodie!

After three years of staying near Kirstenbosch, I’ve eaten my way through every neighbourhood. I’ve found some gems that will delight any plant-based eater. You’ll feel like you’ve found paradise.

First off, you won’t believe how the V&A Waterfront has transformed!

I remember when finding a decent vegan meal here was like trying to find a needle in a haystack. Now? I’m spoiled for choice!

I love the new rooftop garden restaurant. Their mushroom risotto could convert any sceptic to plant-based eating.

Woodstock – oh my goodness, where do I even begin?

This artsy neighbourhood has become my weekend ritual. The Old Biscuit Mill doesn’t just offer vegan options; they celebrate them!

I’ve spent countless Saturday mornings chatting with local vendors. They’ve started making plant-based versions of traditional South African dishes. The vegan koeksisters (a local doughnut-like treat) are to die for!

Speaking of markets, let me take you on my typical Sunday routine at Oranjezicht City Farm Market.

Pro tip: get there early! I learned this the hard way after missing out on the best vegan breakfast burritos in town one too many times.

The fresh produce section is my weekly highlight. It’s magical to chat with farmers who grow amazing organic vegetables.

But here’s what gets me excited – the wine scene!

I was honestly worried about finding vegan wines in the Winelands, but boy, was I wrong.

I found some amazing vineyards in Stellenbosch. They clearly label their vegan wines. They also offer plant-based food and wine pairings.

Nothing beats sipping a perfect Pinotage. A gourmet vegan cheese board, with a view of the vineyards, makes it even better.

For those special occasions, I’ve got to tell you about the fine dining scene.

I recently celebrated my birthday at a high-end restaurant in Camps Bay. The chef made a seven-course vegan tasting menu. My non-vegan friends loved it and asked for the recipes. Trust me, when people say Cape Town is the vegan capital of Africa, they’re not exaggerating!

Want a money-saving tip?

I’ve learned that many restaurants offer amazing vegan specials on Mondays and Tuesdays. I keep a little calendar of who’s offering what – it’s how I manage to eat like royalty on a reasonable budget!

The best part about Cape Town’s vegan scene isn’t just the food – it’s the community.

I’ve met some passionate people through these culinary adventures. They are revolutionizing South African cuisine.

From vegan grill experts to local aunties, every meal tells a story. Veganizing Cape Malay classics, the aunties were once traditional braai masters.

Would you like me to share more specific recommendations or tips about any of these spots?

I know the best times to visit, hidden menu items, and how to reserve at popular spots!

But wait

What about the Place of Gold – Johannesburg?

Johannesburg’s Rising Vegan-Friendly Scene

You know what?

When I first moved to Joburg, everyone warned me that I’d struggle as a vegan. Well, let me tell you – they couldn’t have been more wrong!

This city has blown me away. Its plant-based food scene is amazing. I can’t wait to share my favourite spots with you.

Let’s start with Braamfontein – oh my goodness, what a revelation!

I found this vibrant neighbourhood on a weekend wander. It is now my go-to for amazing vegan street food.

There’s an amazing food truck that parks near the Neighbourgoods Market on Saturdays. It serves the most incredible mushroom braai rolls. I dream about their chakalaka sauce!

Pro tip: get there before 11 AM, or you’ll be stuck in a queue that wraps around the block.

Don’t even get me started on Maboneng!

This artsy precinct has completely stolen my heart. I’m now a regular at this cosy vegan café. The barista starts making my oat milk flat white the moment I walk in.

They make incredible breakfast bowls. They top them with locally sourced moringa powder and amazing homemade granola.

But here’s my secret. On Sunday afternoons, they serve vegan versions of traditional South African desserts. Their milk tart is better than my grandmother’s (sorry, Ouma!).

Now, if you’re looking to splurge a bit, let me tell you about my Sandton discoveries. I recently celebrated my promotion at a trendy restaurant. They’re doing amazing things with local ingredients.

Their tasting menu changes with the seasons. But, if they’re still serving that smoky, braai-spiced cauliflower steak, you MUST try it! I never thought I’d be taking photos of cauliflower, but here we are!

One thing I love about Joburg’s vegan scene is how it reflects the city’s diversity.

I found a fantastic spot in Cyrildene. It serves an amazing vegan dim sum. There’s a place in Fordsburg that veganized traditional Indian street food.

The flavours are out of this world!

Last week, I tried their jackfruit bunny chow, and I’m still thinking about it.

The market scene here deserves special mention.

Every first Sunday, there’s an amazing vegan market in Greenside. Local vendors showcase their plant-based creations.

I have a monthly ritual. I grab a fresh coconut from the juice stand. I stock up on homemade seitan. I always end up chatting with fellow vegans who share their favourite spots. The community here is just incredible!

And can we talk about the food festivals?

Last month, I went to Joburg’s first major vegan food festival in Rosebank. I’m still recovering from all the amazing food I tried!

It was heaven. They reimagined traditional African dishes as vegan delicacies. And they made the most innovative plant-based desserts.

I even got my meat-loving brother to come. Now, he’s asking for vegan restaurant tips.

Here’s a little secret. I have a list on my phone of all the must-try vegan spots in Joburg. It grows every week.

Some places on my list are still untried. It shows how vibrant and evolving the scene is here. Do you want more tips on navigating the city’s vegan options?

Trust me. Johannesburg is becoming one of Africa’s best vegan spots.

And the best part?

It feels like we’re just getting started!

I am amazed daily by the creativity, passion, and diversity of this city’s vegan scene.

Can you include beautiful scenery and vegan adventure? Garden Route is your paradise of choice.

Garden Route’s Vegan-Friendly Paradise

Let me tell you about my absolute favourite stretch of the South African coastline – the Garden Route!

As a vegan foodie who has road-tripped this route ten times, I’ve found some amazing vegan gems. They’ll make you want to pack your bags and go.

Knysna stole my heart, and not just for the stunning lagoon views! There’s an adorable organic café in the old town. It changed my view on vegan food.

I’m on their fairy-lit terrace, watching the sunset over the Heads. I’m eating the most incredible mushroom and walnut pie.

The owner, Susanna, makes everything from scratch. She even showed me how to forage for local edible plants!

Pro tip: Don’t miss their Sunday brunch. Their chickpea scramble with foraged herbs is life-changing.

Oh, and Plettenberg Bay?

I wasn’t expecting to find such an eco-conscious food scene here! There’s this amazing beachfront restaurant where I had the best vegan seafood platter (yes, you read that right!).

They use local seaweed and mushrooms to create these incredible ocean-inspired dishes.

I planned my last trip around their monthly full-moon dinner series. Imagine plant-based fine dining under the stars, with the sound of waves in the background. Pure magic!

Let me share my accommodation secrets with you. I found an amazing eco-lodge just outside Wilderness. It caters to vegans and grows most of its produce!

I spent mornings helping in their organic garden (totally optional, but so therapeutic!) and evenings enjoying the most amazing farm-to-table dinners.

The owner even shared her recipe for vegan malva pudding. It’s a South African classic. I never thought it could be veganized so perfectly.

Speaking of fresh produce, I’ve mapped out all the best farmers’ markets along the route.

There’s a fantastic shop in Sedgefield. I buy local nuts, dried fruits, and the most incredible homemade preserves there. The couple who sells vegan biltong (who knew?) have become good friends – they always save me their new flavours to try!

One of my favourite discoveries was this family-run farm sanctuary near George.

They offer the most amazing plant-based cooking classes using ingredients from their garden. I learned to make traditional South African dishes with a vegan twist. Their lentil and spice bobotie is now my go-to comfort food!

For self-catering (sometimes you want to cook), I’ve found some great health food stores along the route.

There’s an amazing little shop in Mossel Bay. It looks tiny outside but is a vegan treasure trove inside. The owner special-orders items for me when I’m planning to pass through – talk about service!

Most people don’t know this: some local wine farms make amazing vegan wines!

I found a boutique winery near Klein Brak. They do amazing vegan wine and chocolate pairings. A local artisan makes their chocolate. She uses indigenous ingredients, like rooibos and buchu.

Want to know my ultimate Garden Route vegan experience?

It’s this sunset picnic spot I found in Nature’s Valley.

I pack supplies from my favourite vendors along the route. They are local sourdough, artisanal nut cheese, fresh figs (in season), and amazing vegan wine.

Sitting there, watching the sun dip into the ocean while enjoying these incredible flavours… it’s pure bliss!

Remember, the Garden Route isn’t just about the food – it’s about the entire experience.

Every trip, from chatting with farmers to finding hidden gems, reveals something new.

Need any specific recommendations or my detailed food trail map? Just let me know – I love sharing my plant-based paradise with fellow vegan travellers!

Want me to tell you about my favourite hiking trails where you can forage for edible plants, or share my list of vegan-friendly coffee shops along the route?

I’ve got plenty more secrets to share!

Grab me before we cruise Durban’s vegan-friendly coastal cuisine.

Durban’s Vegan-Friendly Coastal Cuisine

Let me tell you about my love affair with Durban’s vegan-friendly food scene!

People picture seafood and curry when they think of this vibrant coastal city. But trust me, I’ve found a world of plant-based delights. They’ll make you forget all about traditional proteins.

First, can we talk about the Indian cuisine here?

Oh, My Goodness. I remember the first time I tried a vegan bunny chow in Florida Road – it was a religious experience! This tiny family-owned restaurant transformed the classic Durban dish into a plant-based masterpiece.

The jackfruit curry had me questioning everything I knew about food.

Pro tip: ask for extra gravy and a side of their homemade coconut chutney. You can thank me later!

Here’s something that blew my mind – the beachfront cafes have upped their vegan game! I’ve made it my morning ritual to jog along the Golden Mile and stop at this adorable little spot right on the beach. Their smoothie bowls topped with local fruits and their mushroom tofu scramble… chef’s kiss. The owner, Themba, even started making his coconut bacon after we discussed breakfast alternatives!

Now, let me share my absolute favourite discovery – the vegetarian temples!

I found a hidden gem in Chatsworth during my first month here. It changed everything.

Every Sunday, they serve a stunning vegan feast for their community service.

I’m talking about aromatic biryani, crispy samosas, and divine, saffron-infused desserts. They’re all 100% plant-based! Plus, the stories behind each dish are just fascinating.

Speaking of spices, let me be your guide to the Victoria Street Market!

I spent weeks befriending the spice merchants. I learned which blends are best for vegan cooking. There’s an amazing auntie in the corner stall. She made a special masala mix for my plant-based curries. She calls it her “vegan magic powder” – and honestly, that’s exactly what it is!

Want to know my secret spot?

There’s this tiny café in Glenwood that does the most incredible fusion cuisine. Picture this: traditional Zulu dishes reimagined as vegan delights. Their chakalaka-stuffed peppers and pap croquettes are mind-blowing!

I’ve started taking cooking classes there twice a month. The chef is teaching me to veganize local dishes.

Oh, and don’t even get me started on the markets!

Every Saturday morning, I am at the Morning Trade Market. An amazing couple sells vegan boerie rolls there. They use a secret mushroom and lentil blend.

The queue is always long, but trust me, it’s worth the wait. I’ve made some of my best friends standing in that line!

Here’s a local hack I’ve learned. During mango season (November to March), I go to the small vendors along the beachfront.

They sell the sweetest mangoes you’ll ever taste. I’ve convinced some to make vegan lassi.

Now they save their ripest mangoes just for my weekly lassi run!

My favourite evening spot is a rooftop restaurant in Morningside. The chef makes the most incredible vegan sushi using local ingredients.

Watching the sunset over the Indian Ocean while nibbling on their spicy mushroom rolls, topped with their homemade vegan sriracha mayo… it’s pure heaven!

I’ve kept a detailed food diary of my Durban vegan finds. It lists the best places for vegan Gatsby rolls and Durban curry.

Remember, Durban’s vegan scene is all about community, creativity, and incredible flavours.

Every time I think I’ve tried everything, I find a new dish. It makes me fall in love with this city’s food all over again!

Surely this requires planning for one’s vegan adventure.

Planning Your Vegan-Friendly South African Adventure

Let me share all my hard-earned wisdom about planning a vegan adventure in South Africa!

After many trips across this beautiful country (and a few mishaps), I’ve learned how to make plant-based travel here seamless.

First things first – timing is everything!

I learned this the hard way. I planned my first trip during a major holiday and found some favourite spots closed.

Cape Town’s vegan scene thrives from October to April when outdoor markets are busy. But if you’re going to Durban like I do each year, I prefer the winter months (June-August). The weather’s perfect, and the best vegan curry spots are less crowded!

Can I share my biggest game-changer? It’s all about the apps!

I swear by Happy Cow; it’s saved me countless times. I’ve also made a custom Google Map with all my verified vegan finds.

You know what’s really cool? I’ve started adding pins for local grocery stores that stock plant-based items. Trust me, knowing where to find your favourite vegan yoghurt when you’re in a new city is priceless!

Let’s talk about communication – this is crucial!

I’ve learned how to explain “vegan” in several local languages, and it’s made such a difference. My favourite phrase in Zulu is “Angidli nyama, amaqanda nobisi” (I don’t eat meat, eggs, or dairy).

The smile you get for speaking the local language is worth every minute spent practising!

Here’s my grocery shopping survival guide (because let’s be real, we can’t eat out every meal!). Pick n Pay and Woolworths are my go-to supermarkets for vegan staples.

But want to know my secret?

I always check out local Indian grocery stores. They’re goldmines for plant-based ingredients!

I found an amazing store in Fordsburg, Johannesburg. It stocks everything from nutritional yeast to tempeh.

Oh, and can we talk about accommodation? And more is also coming later…

I now always email about vegan options, even if they say they’re vegan-friendly. Some of my best experiences are from places where the chef got excited about making special vegan menus!

There’s an amazing guesthouse in Stellenbosch. The owner now makes an incredible vegan breakfast spread due to guest requests.

Here’s something I wish someone had told me earlier – always pack some emergency snacks! I keep a stash of local vegan biltong (yes, it exists and it’s amazing!) and dried fruit for those long road trips between cities.

My favourite road trip snack combo?

Dried mango from the Durban markets paired with roasted macadamias from Limpopo.

Want to know my ultimate planning tip?

Join local vegan Facebook groups before your trip! I’ve gotten some of my best recommendations this way. Plus, I got instant answers to specific questions.

The South African vegan community is very welcoming. I’ve made friends who’ve shown me their favourite local spots!

Remember those times when Google Maps says “closed” but locals know better?

I have a little black book of operating hours for smaller vegan spots, especially in smaller towns along the Garden Route.

Want me to share my updated list?

I keep it current with seasonal changes and discoveries!

And here’s my final piece of advice – be adventurous!

Some of my favourite vegan dishes come from trying traditional South African foods. They were either plant-based or easy to veganize. Like the amazing umngqusho (samp and beans) at a small township restaurant. Or the incredible chakalaka I learned to make from a local chef.

Do you need some top-notch vegan restaurants in South Africa?

I got you covered.

Top Vegan-Friendly Restaurants in Major Cities

Join me on a tasty tour of my favourite vegan restaurants in South Africa!

After countless meals, food photos, and happy food comas, I’ve found the best plant-based foods.

Let’s start in Cape Town, where I plan my weekends around meals!

My number one spot has to be Plant Kitchen in Woodstock. You guys, their mushroom burger changed my life! I still dream about their cashew cheese sauce, and don’t even get me started on their bobotie – it’s better than my grandmother’s traditional recipe (sorry, Ouma!).

Pro tip: make a reservation for their Sunday brunch. I learned this the hard way after missing out three weekends in a row!

In Johannesburg, I’ve found my happy place at The Greenside Cafe. The owner, Mike, has become like family – he always lets me peek into the kitchen when he’s testing new recipes.

Their raw cheesecake is absolutely insane (I may have once ordered a whole one for “a party” but eaten it all myself over a week – no regrets!).

Here’s a secret: if you ask nicely, they’ll make you an off-menu mushroom Wellington. It’s amazing.

Durban surprised me with Earthmother Organic on Florida Road. I remember walking in sceptically (because vegan bunny chow, really?) and walking out a complete convert!

Their jackfruit curry is so good, that I’ve seen people checking if it’s vegan. Trust me on this – get the extra roti. You’ll want to mop up every last bit of that sauce!

In Pretoria, my absolute go-to is Pure & Plant.

The chef there does an incredible thing with local mushrooms and braai spices. It had my meat-loving dad asking for the recipe.

I’ve changed my running route just to pass by there more often!

After every long run, I reward myself with their breakfast bowl. It has house-made granola and local fruit.

Port Elizabeth’s Green Temple has become my mandatory first stop whenever I visit.

Imagine ocean views, great plant-based sushi, and a chocolate smoothie bowl I’d swim across the bay for. The owner taught me to make her famous beetroot carpaccio. It’s now my signature dish at dinner parties!

Here’s a fun challenge I’ve set myself – I try to eat something completely new at each visit.

This has led to amazing discoveries. A mind-blowing watermelon “tuna” at Cape Town’s Nourish’d. And, the best vegan malva pudding at Johannesburg’s Kind Kitchen.

Want to know the best part about all these spots?

The incredible community they’ve created. I’ve made close friends while waiting for Fresh Earth’s Saturday pastries and at The Fussy Vegan’s community table.

Oh, and let me share my favourite hack – follow these restaurants on Instagram!

That’s how I found out about Pure’s secret menu items and Plant Kitchen’s weekly specials. Plus, most of them post when they’re testing new dishes and want feedback.

Yes, I’ve volunteered as a tribute many times!

After all these vegan spots in South Africa, where can you rest?

Vegan-Friendly Accommodation in South Africa

I’ve found amazing places on my plant-based adventures in South Africa!

After countless stays (and a few interesting experiences), I’ve found some gems. They go above and beyond for vegan travellers.

Cape Town honestly spoils me with options!

My absolute favourite has to be Camps Bay Terrace Suite. I’ll never forget checking in. A welcome platter awaited in my room. It had local vegan cheese, fresh fruit, and a bottle of vegan wine.

The owner even creates personalized breakfast menus for each vegan guest.

Think smoothie bowls with homemade granola. Tofu scramble with local mushrooms. And, the best avocado toast you’ve ever had!

I found a hidden gem in the Winelands. It’s a gorgeous eco-lodge just outside Stellenbosch. You guys have their organic garden!

I spent mornings picking herbs for breakfast. Evenings were for plant-based braais under the stars. The chef even taught me how to make vegan malva pudding during one of their cooking classes.

Pro tip: book their treehouse suite if you can – waking up to those vineyard views is absolutely magical!

In Johannesburg, I’ve found my home away from home at this boutique hotel in Sandton.

When I mentioned I was vegan during booking, they didn’t just note it – they went all out!

The chef makes amazing breakfast spreads. They include chickpea shakshuka and fresh-baked vegan pastries.

Plus, they’ve partnered with local vegan restaurants for room service. Late-night plant-based bunny chow? Yes, please!

My favourite Garden Route discovery is a family-run guesthouse near Wilderness.

They cater brilliantly to vegans. Plus, they’re solar-powered and plastic-free! The owner makes her plant-based milk (the macadamia one is incredible!) and keeps a fully stocked vegan pantry for guests. I’ve extended my stay twice because I couldn’t bear to leave!

Want to know my top safari experience?

I found this amazing lodge in Kruger that totally gets vegan needs. They don’t just offer plant-based meals – they make them an experience!

Imagine this: sundowners with vegan canapes, watching elephants at the waterhole. Then, a three-course plant-based dinner under the stars. They even pack the most incredible vegan snack boxes for game drives!

Oh, and I have to share this gem in Durban – a beachfront B&B run by a former vegan chef. Every morning is like waking up to a plant-based feast!

They make their own kombucha. They have a garden of organic vegetables. They even offer plant-based cooking classes. The owner shared her secret recipe for vegan bunny chow with me – it’s become my go-to comfort food!

Here’s my best tip: always message accommodations directly before booking.

Some of my favourite stays weren’t advertised as vegan-friendly. But they were very accommodating once I reached out.

I’ve had places buy special ingredients just for my stay. I’ve had chefs eager to try plant-based versions of local dishes!

Need some money-saving tips?

Many places offer better rates for weekday stays. Some discount longer stays. I once got a great deal at a Cape Town guesthouse by offering to host a vegan cooking workshop for their staff!

Want to hear more about any of these places?

I have a folder of photos and notes. They detail the best rooms to request, what to order for breakfast, and which local vegan spots deliver to each location.

Just let me know what area you’re interested in!

Remember, planning is key – especially during peak season.

Some of these places only have one or two vegan-friendly rooms, and they get booked up fast. Trust me, I learned this the hard way during my first December trip to Cape Town!