7 vegan-friendly places in Exeter you need to try this Veganuary

Exeter is embracing Veganuary this year, and whether you’re fully plant-based or just looking to try something new, the city has plenty of options to explore.

From cosy cafés to long-standing vegetarian restaurants, these are some of the best vegan and vegan-friendly spots in the heart of the city.

1. Sacred Grounds – McCoys Arcade, Fore St, EX4 3AN
Sacred Grounds is a fully vegan café serving waffles, toasts, sandwiches, wraps, smoothies, salads, and more. All meals are palm-oil free, and the café runs on green energy. Table service is available, walk-ins are welcome, and bookings are taken for parties of six or more. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am–3pm. See their website for the current menu.

2. Sprout – 1 Cathedral Yard, EX1 1HJ
Located opposite Exeter Cathedral, Sprout is a cosy plant-based café offering seasonal salads, warm sourdough dishes, savoury pastries, and homemade treats like cookies and Portuguese custard tarts. Perfect for a wholesome lunch or brunch during Veganuary.

3. Veg Box – Piazza Terracina, The Quay, EX2 8GT
Situated on Exeter Quay, Veg Box serves vibrant wraps, salads, smoothies, and specialty roast coffee. Its relaxed waterfront atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a casual plant-based meal while exploring the Quay.

4. Herbies – 15 North St, EX4 3QS
A staple of Exeter’s plant-based dining scene since the early 1990s, Herbies continues to offer creative vegan and vegetarian dishes. While not exclusively vegan, it provides a wide range of plant-based options for lunch or dinner in the city centre.

5. The Flat – 142 Fore St, EX4 3AN
Known for its excellent vegan pizza options, The Flat is a casual spot perfect for sharing with friends or family during Veganuary. Its plant-based pizzas are a favourite among locals.

Other vegan-friendly options:

• Pho Exeter – Vietnamese restaurant with a variety of dishes that are naturally vegan or easily adaptable.

• On the Waterfront – Quayside eatery offering vegan pizza, veggie burgers, and plant-rich options.

• Crave – Scenic restaurant on the Quay serving vegan-friendly mains alongside its regular menu.

Veganuary is the perfect opportunity to explore Exeter’s plant-based scene, whether you’re a full-time vegan or just trying a few meals without animal products. Many of these cafés and restaurants offer creative dishes that are sustainable, healthy, and full of flavour.

Tips for visiting:

• Check opening hours before visiting, as some spots have limited hours or take bookings for larger groups.

• Many places are walk-in friendly, but larger parties should reserve ahead.

• Share your experiences on social media and tag local spots, many cafés are featuring Veganuary specials.

With so many vegan options across the city, Veganuary 2026 is shaping up to be a delicious month for Exeter residents and visitors alike.