Tucked away in Tanjung Tokong, Brown Poodle Cafe announces itself with effortless charm: a glowing arched neon sign, rattan furniture, and their signature fluffy white poodle sculpture greeting you at the entrance. The neon wall quote "Be the change you wish to see in the world" sets the tone perfectly for what this 100% vegan cafe stands for.

Known primarily for their celebrated frozen meal delivery service, Pinxin Vegan's dine-in experience at Georgetown, Penang proves the brand's culinary credentials extend well beyond the freezer aisle. We went there on Friday evening after a long day of exploring for a satisfying plant-based feast rooted in Penang’s rich hawker heritage and we were not disappointed.

Tucked away at 19 Lorong Dewan in the bustling centre of Kota Kinabalu, Nook Cafe has cultivated a quiet reputation as one of Sabah's most charming dining destinations. The name itself feels intentional: this is a place you seek out rather than stumble upon, and that sense of discovery makes the experience all the more rewarding.

A quick round up of all the other vegan food we had in New Zealand that didn’t make the cut for a full stand alone post.

Finding exceptional vegan options at a restaurant called "Bacon Brothers" might seem unlikely, but this popular Christchurch establishment proves that even the most meat-focused kitchens can deliver impressive plant-based alternatives. Located within the vibrant Little High Eatery, Bacon Brothers demonstrates how creative burger joints can satisfy climate-conscious diners without compromising their core identity.

Perched on Wanaka's stunning lakefront at 105 Ardmore Street, Big Fig delivers exactly what climate-conscious travellers hope to find: delicious, healthy food that happens to be environmentally friendly, served in one of New Zealand's most breathtaking settings. This vibrant cafe proves that sustainable dining and spectacular scenery make perfect companions.

Nestled on Church Street in the heart of Queenstown, Yonder brings a refreshing approach to cafe culture that perfectly matches the town's vibrant, international atmosphere. This charming establishment describes itself as "passionate providers of coffee, brunch, drinks & late night shenanigans," and their menu reflects influences from travels around the world—including some delightful plant-based options that cater to climate-conscious diners.

Located at the corner of Bath and Stuart Streets in Dunedin, The Corner Store Cafe embodies the kind of unpretentious, community-focused dining that makes sustainable eating feel natural and accessible. This neighborhood gem proves that plant-based options don't need elaborate presentations or exotic ingredients—sometimes the best vegan food comes from simple, well-executed comfort dishes made with care.

Hidden away in Wellington's vibrant food scene, September Vegan has quietly established itself as a destination for exceptional plant-based Asian cuisine.

Perched on Onepu Road with stunning views across Lyall Bay, The Botanist represents everything that's exciting about New Zealand's evolving plant-based dining scene. This innovative cafe and restaurant doesn't just serve vegan food—it creates genuine culinary experiences that happen to be entirely plant-based, proving that sustainable dining can be both delicious and sophisticated.

Situated on Roberts Street in the heart of Taupo, Cafe Baku brings together bold flavors and warm hospitality in one of New Zealand's most stunning lakeside settings.

Located on Maunganui Road in the heart of Mount Maunganui, Latitude 37 delivers what you'd expect from an award-winning restaurant: quality food, good service, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for the Bay of Plenty's coastal vibe.

East in Auckland’s CBD represents a refreshing evolution in plant-based dining that proves sustainable eating does not require sacrificing bold flavours or culinary sophistication.

Gorilla Kitchen has established itself as more than just another vegan restaurant, it’s a custodian of tasty food that’s redefining plant-based dining in New Zealand’s largest city.

Air New Zealand has become one of the most progressive airlines when it comes to sustainable dining, and their expanding menu deserves recognition from environmentally conscious travellers. With aviation accounting for 2-3% of global carbon emissions, every effort to reduce the industry’s environmental footprint matters - and dietary choices play a surprisingly significant role.

I visited Cape Town, South Africa in 2023 and again in 2024 and wow the vegan scene in Cape Town and Stellenbosch has truly began to flourish. This reflects a growing awareness and demand for plant-based dining options. As a traveler, I've noticed a vibrant array of vegan eateries and initiatives that cater to diverse tastes and preferences.