It’s Mid-Autumn Festival and that means it’s time for mooncakes!

The Mid-Autumn Festival has over 3,000 years of history, originating from ancient Chinese moon worship practices and harvest celebrations. It became an official holiday during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD) and is now one of China's major festivals.

I keep seeing this study mentioned everywhere.The "Joseph Poore study" has become shorthand for "science proves meat is bad for the environment," but I realised I'd never actually read what the researchers found. So I dove in, and wow - it's both more nuanced and more comprehensive than what the general consensus suggests.

If you're plant-based in Hong Kong, chances are you've already heard of Here - the east-side offshoot of the beloved Years. Tucked into quiet corner of Quarry Bay / Taikoo, this spot has become my weekly ritual, and honestly, choosing a photo to post each time is getting harder than picking what to eat.

City Super Deli in Hong Kong isn't a fully vegan destination, but it does offer a few reliably tasty plant-based deli items that are perfect for a quick lunch or snack. 

The Hong Kong Vegetarian Expo once again brought together an incredible mix of plant-based innovation, cultural flavours, and eco-conscious living. We scoped out the place for the best vegan dishes and products on offer. 

Here follows a quick round-up of some of the best vegan places to visit in Hong Kong!

Hidden in the heart of Wan Chai, within the historic Blue House, you will find this little gem called Lisa's Veggie - a humble, no frills vegetarian eatery offering home-style Chinese vegetarian cuisine in a setting steeped in culture and character. Don't fret! Vegan dishes are clearly labelled.

Hakuba, located in the breathtaking Japanese Alps, is a renowned destination for winter sports enthusiasts, offering world-class skiing and snowboarding. Beyond its stunning slopes and alpine scenery, Hakuba also has a growing culinary scene, including Sol, a small but welcoming vegan cafe!

Tucked away in a cosy corner of Osaka, this vegan eatery has become a favourite among locals and travellers alike for its inventive dishes, welcoming atmosphere, and dedication to cruelty-free cooking. From hearty mains to indulgent desserts, Mercy Vegan Factory offers a great dining experience.

Located in the heart of the city, this charming restaurant takes vegan dining to the next level, offering creative, flavourful dishes that highlight the best of Japanese and international cuisine. This restaurant redefines plant-based dining in Osaka.

Nestled in the vibrant streets of Dotonbori, Osaka is a vegan restaurant called Pivot Base. Known for its plant-based versions of takoyaki and yakisoba, this eatery serves up classic Osaka flavours with a cruelty-free twist.

Vegan Ramen by Playpen Friends in Osaka is a great spot for those seeking plant-based ramen options. The restaurant offers a variety of ramen broths including shoyo and tonkotsu, which was probably one of the best things I have ever eaten in my life.

Kanazawa is a charming city located in the Ishikawa Prefecture of Japan, known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. It boasts a vibrant food scene, is home to the Kenroku-en Garden, and features historic districts like Higashi Chaya, where visitors can experience traditional tea houses. This is definitely a hidden gem, and though we were not optimistic of finding vegan food, we did not have enough time to try it all!

Vegan Veggie Joga, located in the trendy Aoyama district of Tokyo, is a delightful haven for those seeing plant-based cuisine infused with medicinal herbs. 

Tosso, located in the Roppongi Hills North Tower, is a bistro that offers a unique dining experience centred around plant-based food.

Nestled in the vibrant neighbourhood of Roppongi, Oscar Wilde is a charming vegan donut shop that will become a favourite among locals and tourists. Known for its creative flavours, the shop is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth, especially if you are looking for plant-based options.

Japan is one of the hardest countries to find vegan food, and we have to rely on each other to identify noteworthy places. Kamui Restaurant in Hakuba, Nagano, Japan is one of those places that has been identified by other vegans as a spot to go and eat. So we made a booking. 

We celebrated a very special vegan birthday at the St. Regis Macau. I let them know beforehand that we prefer plant based or vegan food. We arrived to find a delicious fruit cake for our celebration in our room! What a nice touch. 

Rick's Cafe, located on Kloof street in Cape Town, is a charming eatery that offers a delightful blend of Moroccan-inspired cuisine and a cozy atmosphere. Known for its vibrant decor reminiscent of the classic film "Casablanca", this restaurant provides a unique dining experience that appeals to both locals and tourists. 

Woolworths Cafe in St Jamestown, Stellenbosch is a delightful spot for those seeking fresh, quality food in a relaxed atmosphere. Known for its commitment to sustainability and healthy eating, the cafe offers a variety of options, including some excellent vegan dishes.