Savoring the Journey: A Guide to Vegan Dining Abroad
As a vegan traveler, dining abroad is one of the most exciting aspects of exploring a new destination. Food has a way of connecting us to culture, history, and community, but for vegans, navigating unfamiliar cuisines can be both thrilling and a bit daunting. Over the years, I’ve learned to turn the challenge into an adventure. With a little preparation, the right tools, and a spirit of curiosity, vegan dining can be one of the highlights of your journey.
Let me share my tried-and-true strategies for enjoying plant-based dining abroad, including why HappyCow is one of my favorite tools and how embracing local flavors has led to some of my most memorable meals.
1. Research Ahead with HappyCow
When I started traveling as a vegan, finding plant-based options often felt like a scavenger hunt. Enter HappyCow—a game-changing app and website for plant-based travelers. It’s now the first tool I turn to when planning my meals abroad.
HappyCow allows you to search for vegan and vegetarian restaurants, as well as places that offer vegan-friendly options. I especially love that it includes reviews and photos from other users, so you know exactly what to expect. It’s saved me countless hours of wandering around hungry, hoping to stumble upon a vegan-friendly spot.
Some of My Favorite HappyCow Finds
Barcelona: I discovered Veggie Garden, a vibrant spot with bold curries, fresh juices, and colorful decor. It was the perfect way to recharge after a day of exploring Park Güell.
Los Angeles: Crossroads Kitchen quickly became one of my go-to spots for an elevated dining experience. Their vegan carbonara and artichoke oysters are the definition of indulgence.
Vancouver: HappyCow led me to MeeT on Main, a cozy restaurant with comfort-food classics like vegan poutine and burgers.
Whenever I arrive in a new city, I start by bookmarking a few options on HappyCow. I even look for vegan-friendly grocery stores or bakeries to round out my culinary adventure.
2. Embrace Local Flavors
One of the joys of vegan travel is discovering plant-based interpretations of local dishes. While some cuisines are naturally vegan-friendly, others may require a little creativity—but that’s half the fun!
In London, I was thrilled to find a vegan take on the traditional English breakfast at Mildreds, complete with scrambled tofu, plant-based sausage, and hash browns. It was hearty, flavorful, and stayed true to the dish’s roots.
In San Diego, I always make a point to visit Kindred, a punk rock-inspired vegan eatery where their vegan fish tacos rival any seafood version I’ve tried.
In Japan, I found that while the concept of veganism isn’t widespread, many traditional dishes like vegetable sushi, miso soup (ask for dashi without fish), and tempura are naturally plant-based or can be easily adapted. Dining in local restaurants gave me a chance to appreciate the artistry of Japanese cuisine, even in its simplest forms.
The key is to embrace the flavors and ingredients that define a region while seeking out vegan-friendly adaptations. Often, this means asking a few questions (more on that below), but the rewards are well worth the effort.
3. Learn Key Phrases
One of the most empowering things you can do as a vegan traveler is learn how to communicate your dietary needs in the local language. Even just a few phrases can make a huge difference in ensuring you have a positive dining experience.
Before visiting Italy, I practiced saying, “Sono vegano” (I am vegan) and “Posso avere questo senza formaggio?” (Can I have this without cheese?). Italian cuisine is often centered around fresh vegetables, pasta, and bread, so with a little communication, I found plenty of delicious options.
In Japan, I used “Watashi wa bejitarian desu” (I am vegetarian) as a starting point, then clarified that I don’t eat fish or meat. While it took some effort, I was amazed by the generosity and creativity of chefs who went out of their way to accommodate me.
A small phrasebook or translation app can be incredibly helpful, especially for cuisines that rely heavily on hidden animal products like broths or sauces. Showing respect for the local language and customs often leads to warm interactions and even better meals.
4. Pack Your Safety Net
Even with the best research and preparation, there will inevitably be moments when vegan options are hard to come by. This is especially true in rural areas or places where plant-based dining isn’t widely understood. That’s why I always travel with a small stash of vegan snacks.
On a road trip through Joshua Tree, I quickly realized that dining options were limited once I left the main areas. Thankfully, I had packed some protein bars, mixed nuts, and dried fruit to tide me over until I reached my next stop.
Some of my favorite travel-friendly snacks include:
Nut butter packets (great for spreading on bread or fruit)
Protein bars (I love Larabars and GoMacro bars)
Trail mix
Instant oatmeal packets (just add hot water for a quick meal)
These snacks are also perfect for long flights or days when you’re on the go and don’t have time for a sit-down meal.
5. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
When dining at non-vegan restaurants, I’ve found that asking questions is key. Many chefs are happy to adapt a dish if they know your preferences, but it’s important to be clear and polite.
For example, in Barcelona, I asked a server if a particular paella could be made vegan. Not only did they accommodate my request, but the chef came out to share the story behind the dish. It became one of the most memorable meals of my trip.
Similarly, in Vancouver, I asked if a soup base contained dairy and was pleasantly surprised when the chef offered to whip up a vegan version on the spot. These conversations often lead to unexpected kindness and a deeper appreciation for the local food culture.
6. Enjoy the Adventure of Vegan Dining
One of the most beautiful aspects of vegan travel is how it turns every meal into a small adventure. Whether it’s hunting down a vegan bakery in London, discovering a plant-based taco truck in Los Angeles, or sharing a homemade meal in a remote village, dining becomes a gateway to connection and exploration.
There’s something magical about sitting down to a meal that reflects both the culture of the destination and your own values. It’s a reminder that food is a universal language—and that being vegan doesn’t mean missing out on the joy of travel.
Final Thoughts: Savor Every Bite
Vegan dining abroad isn’t just about finding food—it’s about embracing the journey. With tools like HappyCow, a willingness to try new things, and a bit of preparation, you can enjoy incredible plant-based meals anywhere in the world.
