With more and more people choosing to pursue a plant-based lifestyle, the Irish restaurant scene is adapting to cater to all. Today we are giving you the top ten best vegan restaurants in Donegal.
According to a study by Wellwoman Vegan, Ireland ranked tenth when it came to the popularity of veganism in 2020. Considering the country’s agricultural background and reliance on traditional farming, this statistic may come as some surprise.
Still, every year, more and more people across the Emerald Isle are deciding to switch to a vegan diet or just cut down on their meat intake for both ethical and environmental reasons.
Statistics for 2020 suggest that the pursual of a vegan diet in Ireland is a whopping twice as popular as it was five years ago!
To coincide with the radical uptake of a vegan lifestyle across the country, cafes and restaurants across the Emerald Isle are adapting their menus to cater for all dietary needs.
The county of the Gaels is no exception, so we are presenting today the ten best vegan restaurants in Donegal.
10. Pierside at Portsalon, Portsalon – a lovely seaside spot
Located in the beautiful seaside town of Portsalon, Pierside at Portsalon is undoubtedly among the best vegan restaurants in Donegal.
They offer a separate vegan and vegetarian menu, which diners can request upon arrival. Delicious plant-based menu items include their ever-popular vegan burger.
With takeaway and sit-in both available, this is the perfect spot to grab a delicious bite to eat before watching the sun go down over Ireland’s most northern country.
Address: The Pier Restaurant, Croaghross, Portsalon, Co. Donegal, F92 ET21, Ireland
9. Maddens Bridge Bar & Restaurant, Bundoran – for a tasty vegan stew
This family-run bar and restaurant can be found in the popular seaside resort town of Bundoran in South Donegal. Offering both indoor and outdoor dining options, this is a popular spot no matter the weather.
Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the vegan options at Maddens Bar and Restaurant are plentiful. For those who don’t want to miss out on the classic Irish Stew, this is your spot as they serve a delicious Vegan Stew!
Address: Main St, Magheracar, Bundoran, Co. Donegal, Ireland
8. Caife Kitty, Bunbeg – for plenty of choice
First opened in 2012, this family-run restaurant has proven popular among both locals and visitors alike. Located in Bunbeg, this is a must-visit for those exploring the Wild Atlantic Way.
Those pursuing a plant-based diet don’t have to miss out on the mouthwatering dishes available here. Vegan options include a delicious vegan burger served with seasoned fries, burrito bowls, a VLT, as well as a range of dairy-free milks for your coffee.
Address: R257, Magheraclogher, Bunbeg, Co. Donegal, Ireland
7. The Point Inn, Carrowkeel – a must-visit
The Point Inn in Carrowkeel is one of the most popular restaurants in the area. Even vegans don’t have to miss out on all the delicious delights on offer here!
They offer a full vegan menu featuring dishes, such as Thai vegetable curry, tomato and basil pasta bake, loaded Mexican tacos, buffalo cauliflower wings, and more. So, you’re sure to be spoilt for choice.
Address: Carrowkeel, Co. Donegal, Ireland
6. Nancy’s Bar, Ardara – an Ardara institution
Located in the southwest of Donegal, Nancy’s Bar in Ardara has been owned and operated by the McHugh family for over seven generations. A Donegal institution, no trip to Ardara is complete without stopping off here.
Vegan options offered here include a delicious homemade veggie burger, a mixed bean chilli served with basmati rice, and loaded veggie fries.
Address: Front Street, Drumbaran, Ardara, Co. Donegal, Ireland
5. Stateside American Restaurant, Letterkenny – one of the best vegan restaurants in Donegal
If you’re in the mood for some American diner-style cuisine, you have to visit Stateside American Restaurant in Letterkenny. This family-friendly restaurant is known county-wide for its burgers, chicken, pizza, fries, and more.
There are plenty of vegan options available here, including a tasty and filling vegan breakfast, a three-bean chilli burrito, chickpea and sweet potato curry, and much more.
Address: Riverside Retail Park, Neil T Blaney Rd, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal, Ireland
4. The Lemon Tree Restaurant, Letterkenny – for fine-dining and Michelin service
Established in 1999, the Lemon Tree Restaurant is a must-visit when you’re in the mood for fine dining. This Michelin recommended restaurant is located in Letterkenny and is renowned for its delicious, fresh, seasonal dishes.
Complete with candles and white tablecloths, this is the spot to go to impress a date or celebrate a special occasion. A separate vegan and vegetarian food menu is available upon request, and there are even vegan wines available, too.
Address: 32-34, Courtyard Shopping Centre, Lower Main Street, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal, Ireland
3. The Yellow Pepper, Letterkenny – for a delicious vegan menu
Touted as the ‘number one spot in the county to dine out’, you can’t miss out on a trip to the Yellow Pepper while in Letterkenny. Located in a former factory, this smart restaurant serves modern Irish cuisine and local produce.
Their separate vegan menu features a range of dishes, such as wild mushroom pasta with truffle oil, lentil and sweet potato curry, and even a range of delicious vegan desserts.
Address: 36 Lower Main St, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal, F92 K125, Ireland
2. Warehouse Bar and Kitchen, Letterkenny – a modern and laidback restaurant
This industrial-style restaurant at the heart of Letterkenny caters for all dietary needs and preferences with an impressive range of vegan and vegetarian options.
Vegan options include tempura cauliflower wings, vegetable pad Thai, and a tasty falafel burger.
Address: 100 Upper Main St, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal, Ireland
1. Wholegreen, Letterkenny – one of the best vegan restaurants in Donegal
Topping our list of best vegan restaurants in Donegal is the pioneering health-food eatery Wholegreen. Specialising in nutrient-rich food, you will be spoilt for choice of breakfast, hot lunches, salad, snacks, smoothies, and more here.
With a belief in food that is good for your body, this is a popular spot for healthy, delicious meals and plenty of vegan options.
Address: Church Ln, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal, Ireland
Notable mentions
Blueberry Tea Room and Restaurant: Serving breakfast, lunch, evening meals, tea, cakes, and more, Blueberry Tea Room and Restaurant in Milltown is a popular choice among vegans in the area.
Chandpur Indian Restaurant: For fans of Indian food, Chandpur Indian Restaurant in Donegal Town is a must-visit. Most dishes on their menu can be made vegan.
Burro Burro: Locals and visitors alike rave about the delicious Mexican burritos on offer here. It is a quality food experience.
FAQs about vegan restaurants in Donegal
Is veganism popular in Ireland?
In recent years, veganism has become increasingly popular in Ireland. According to statistics, there are now twice as many vegans in Ireland as there was five years ago.
What do vegans eat in Ireland?
Overall, Ireland is catching up with other locations around the world when it comes to vegan food. Some of the most popular vegan foods in Ireland are tofu-based dishes, vegan sausages and burgers, and Mexican bean dishes.
Is it possible to be vegan in Ireland?
Things are changing in Ireland, and while the country was a traditionally agricultural-dependent nation, it is now easier than ever to adopt a vegan lifestyle. This is thanks to the creation of plant-based dishes, vegan dishes, and vegetarian dishes.
