How to Introduce a Great Vegan Menu to Your Pub or Restaurant

As the demand for plant-based dining continues to rise, offering a thoughtful selection of vegan meals can attract a wider audience to your pub or restaurant. 

Whether you’re looking to cater to committed vegans, flexitarians, or those simply curious about plant-based cuisine, here’s how to start offering vegan options that will delight your diners.

1. Understand the Vegan Diet

Before diving into menu planning, ensure you and your staff understand what veganism entails. A vegan diet excludes all animal products, including meat, dairy, eggs, and honey. Familiarise yourself with common plant-based alternatives and the reasons why people choose veganism, such as health, ethics, and sustainability.

2. Research and Experiment with Ingredients

Vegan cooking offers a world of creative possibilities. Stock your kitchen with versatile staples like:

Plant-based proteins: tofu, tempeh, seitan, jackfruit, and legumes.

Dairy substitutes: oat milk, almond milk, vegan cheese, and coconut cream.

Egg alternatives: aquafaba (chickpea water), flaxseed meal, or commercial egg replacers.

Flavour enhancers: nutritional yeast, miso paste, tahini, and fresh herbs.

Experiment with these ingredients to create dishes that are not only vegan but also flavourful and satisfying.

3. Transform Classic Dishes

Start by adapting popular menu items into vegan-friendly versions. For example:

Replace beef patties with a lentil or mushroom-based burger.

Offer a plant-based shepherd’s pie with lentils and sweet potato mash.

Use cashew cream or coconut milk for creamy soups and curries.

Familiar dishes with a vegan twist can make the transition easier for both your kitchen and your diners.

4. Offer Variety

A good vegan menu goes beyond salads. Aim for a diverse range of dishes that cater to different tastes and occasions. Include options like:

Starters: Spiced cauliflower wings or bruschetta with vegan ricotta.

Mains: Thai green curry, vegan lasagne, or a hearty Buddha bowl.

Desserts: Chocolate avocado mousse, vegan cheesecake, or sorbet.

5. Source Quality Ingredients

Partner with local suppliers to source fresh, seasonal, and organic produce. Highlighting these partnerships on your menu can also appeal to diners who value sustainability and supporting local businesses.

6. Train Your Staff

Your team should be well-versed in the vegan menu. Train them to:

Answer questions about ingredients confidently.

Suggest pairings, such as vegan wines or craft beers.

Handle vegan dishes separately in the kitchen to avoid cross-contamination.

7. Label Clearly

Make it easy for diners to identify vegan options. Use clear labelling on your menu and consider creating a separate vegan section. Highlighting vegan dishes as delicious and inclusive can attract even non-vegan customers.

8. Promote Your Vegan Offerings

Spread the word about your new vegan options through:

Social media posts showcasing your dishes.

Collaborations with local vegan influencers or bloggers.

Hosting a vegan tasting night or special event.

9. Gather Feedback

Encourage feedback from your diners to refine your vegan offerings. Listen to what they love and what they’d like to see more of. This will help you stay ahead of trends and keep your menu fresh.

10. Stay Committed

Introducing vegan options is not just a trend but a commitment to inclusivity and sustainability. Regularly update your menu and stay informed about new plant-based products and techniques.

By offering a well-thought-out vegan menu, your pub or restaurant can attract a loyal and diverse customer base while contributing to a more sustainable future. Start small, experiment, and let your creativity shine!