Berlin, the German capital known for its rich history, vibrant nightlife, and progressive values, has also become a hub for vegans and those interested in a more compassionate and sustainable lifestyle. In recent years, the city has seen a surge in vegan-friendly restaurants, shops, and community events. This comprehensive guide will take you on a journey through the best of vegan Berlin, ensuring you experience the city’s compassionate and eco-conscious side.
Vegan Dining in Berlin
Berlin’s vegan dining scene is diverse, innovative, and delicious. Whether you’re in the mood for upscale dining, casual eats, or something in between, there’s a vegan option to suit every taste and budget. Here are some of the top spots to try:
- For those who want to indulge in vegan-friendly fine dining, check out Nadine Michele in Mitte or Kreativkueche in Neukölln.
- If you’re looking for a more casual meal with a wide range of plant-based options, consider heading to VeganBurg in Neukölln or Veganz in Mitte.
- For a sweet treat or a cozy café experience, stop by Bio-Cafe in Prenzlauer Berg for vegan cakes and pastries or Must Cake in Friedrichshain for creative vegan desserts.
Many traditional German dishes have been veganized, so if you’re keen to try some local favorites with a plant-based twist, check out Prinzessinnengarten in Kreuzberg or Alter Brauhaus in Mitte. And if you’re craving international flavors, there are plenty of options to choose from, including Indian, Thai, Middle Eastern, and Mexican cuisine.
Innovative vegan fusion cuisine can also be found at places like The Bird in Neukölln, which serves up veganized versions of classic American comfort food, and The Bowl in Schöneberg, which specializes in plant-based bowls inspired by various global cuisines.
Vegan Shopping in Berlin
In addition to delicious vegan food, Berlin is home to a variety of shops selling cruelty-free products. Whether you’re in the market for sustainable clothing and shoes, beauty and personal care products, or eco-friendly home goods, there are plenty of options to choose from.
When it comes to ethical fashion and accessories, some of the best shops in Berlin include Essential by Siam in Mitte for stylish vegan shoes and bags, Monsieur Taupe in Neukölln for sustainable and minimalist clothing, and Eco-Outlet in Prenzlauer Berg for a selection of second-hand clothes and accessories.
For those who want to look and feel their best, there are also several vegan-friendly beauty and personal care brands with stores in Berlin, such as Lush and Naturkost Schmidt. And for those who enjoy a good book, Literaturhaus Berlin in Mitte has a wide selection of vegan and vegetarian titles in their bookstore.
When it comes to grocery shopping, there are several options for stocking up on vegan essentials. Specialty vegan supermarkets like Veganz Market in Mitte and Nadine in Schöneberg have a wide range of products, while organic and health food stores like Das Gesaune Haus in Prenzlauer Berg and Bio-Mergler in Neukölln have vegan sections. And if you’re in the city on the weekends, be sure to check out one of the many local farmers’ markets or pop-up events for fresh produce and artisanal vegan goods.
Vegan Community and Culture in Berlin
Berlin has a vibrant vegan community, and there are many events and festivals throughout the year that celebrate plant-based living. Some of the top annual events include Vegan Summer Fest, Vegan Christmas Market, and Vegan Food Festival Berlin. There are also vegan-themed workshops and cooking classes, ethical fashion shows, and sustainable living expos to check out.
If you’re interested in spending some time with animals, there are several animal sanctuaries and ethical wildlife encounters near Berlin, including Farm Sanctuary Europe and Schöner Tier. And for those who want to explore the city in a vegan-friendly way, there are vegan-centric tours and city explorations offered by companies like Vegan Food Tours Berlin.
For a more active vegan experience, consider checking out YogaSphere Berlin, which offers vegan-friendly yoga and fitness classes, or Vegan Running Tours Berlin, which combines sightseeing with a run or walk.
Sustainable and Ethical Living in Vegan Berlin
When it comes to accommodation, Berlin has a range of options for vegan travelers. Some of the top vegan-friendly hotels and hostels include Ethic Hotel in Mitte, Funky Hostel in Kreuzberg, and Circus Hostel in Schöneberg. For those who prefer a more sustainable and zero-waste living space, check out Eco-Lodge Berlin.
When it comes to getting around the city, Berlin has a number of eco-friendly options for transportation. For those who enjoy biking, there is a bike-sharing system called Call a Bike, and electric vehicles can be rented from companies like E-Mobil. The city’s public transportation system, which includes buses, trains, and trams, also has a green footprint, with many vehicles powered by renewable energy. And for those who prefer a vegan-friendly ride, consider using Lyft or Taxis Berlin, both of which have vegan options.
Planning Your Vegan Berlin Adventure
Berlin’s vegan scene is constantly evolving, so it’s a good idea to do some research before you go. There are several helpful apps and online resources available, including Happy Cow, Sweet Vegan, and Too Good To Go. You can also pick up a vegan-specific city guide or map at the tourist office or one of the many vegan shops in town.
To get the most out of your vegan Berlin adventure, it’s a good idea to plan ahead. If you’re on a budget, consider visiting some of the farmers’ markets or pop-up events, which often have affordable vegan options. And if you’re traveling on a luxury budget, you may want to splurge on a multi-course vegan tasting menu at one of the city’s upscale restaurants or book a room at one of Berlin’s top vegan hotels.
And finally, if you’re a first-time vegan visitor to Berlin, be sure to try some of the city’s most iconic vegan dishes, like vegan currywurst, vegan doner kebab, and vegan pretzels. You may even want to sign up for a vegan food tour to get a taste of all the plant-based goodness Berlin has to offer.