If you find yourself with a vegetarian, you don’y have to worry about leaving them at home gnawing on celery and hummus all evening anymore. And yes, whilst being a vegetarian is a commendable and healthy lifestyle choice, eating out can be a challenge when your options are limited to some leaves and a few tomatoes. Luckily Capetonians are spoilt for choice when it comes to vegetarian fare. Here is our list of great eateries, bistros and gastronomic kitchens where the vegetarian won’t have to compromise on choice or flavour.

Addis In Cape

Addis in Cape is truly magical, specialising in traditional Ethiopian cuisine. Their vegetarian selection is impressive and completely vegan too. With great options to choose from like their Kek Alicha, or the split yellow chickpeas dish served on a pancake-like sourdough base called Injera. There is no mistaking this place, it is wonderful. If you want to share a taste experience with vegetarians and meat eaters alike, opt for the set menu with both vegetarian and meat dishes. It is a culinary experience not to be missed.

41 Church Street, Corner Long Street & Church Street, City Centre

Pure Good

The freshest and healthiest wraps, salads, juices and smoothies will be found at this Masterchef finalists spot. If you are in need of a health boost, this is the place for you. Try The Mother City wrap – fresh, crunchy spinach, creamy feta, caramelised onion and avo. Plus they do a #MeatFreeMonday lunch special.

21 St John’s Street, Gardens

Wellness Café

Located in the Wellness Warehouse at The Lifestyle Centre in the city centre, this charming café offers a great variety of delicious fresh foods. The café is bright and clean with great vegetarian options like their bean and oat burger. If you are one who lives a clean and green life, enjoy perusing the Wellness Warehouse for a wide range of retail items.

50 Kloof Street, Lifestyle Centre, City Centre

Bedouin Café & Deli

This stylish Middle Eastern-inspired deli at the piazza of the Cape Quarter Lifestyle Village is a great place for tasty fare. Bedouin Café & Deli specialises in homemade artisanal labneh cream cheese strained from yoghurt, a feature in many of their dishes. Their mezze platter, which is entirely vegetarian, has favourites like hummus, vegetable dolmades, olives and a deliciously chunky tzatziki served with flat bread. Also try their grilled vegetables with Middle Eastern spices.

Shop 24, Cape Quarter Lifestyle Village (Piazza Level) Somerset Road, Greenpoint

Peter’s House

Peter’s house is a charming, quirky local favourite. Their mushroom risotto and the vegetable quesadillas are a hit amongst its patrons. . Its great value for money and Tuesday’s quiz night makes for a wonderful evening of fun and food. Do book a table to ensure a spot for the quiz.

14 Kloofnek Road, Tamboerskloof

Cedar Restaurant

Cedar restaurant is a hidden gem in the Rheede Street Mall. They serve lovely Lebanese mezze like babaghanous, falafel, and potato and cauliflower harra, a real treat for a true vegetarian. End off a wonderful meal with some of their homemade teas and hubbly-bubbly.

10 Rheede Street, Gardens, City Centre

Bistrot Bizerca

The critically acclaimed Bistrot Bizerca features a delightful three beetroot salad, a decadent beetroot sorbet and homemade croutons that are absolutely to die for. This is the place you go to enjoy a glass of wine in the courtyard, while your palette delights in light and flavoursome foods made with care, and with ingredients sourced seasonally and locally.

98 Shortmarket Street, Heritage Square, City Centre

Slow Life

This eatery embodies slow living. Patrons can take in the beautiful sea views in a relaxed atmosphere while feasting on tasty vegetarian and pescatarian dishes. Try their big mushroom burger or a build-your-own gourmet sandwich. Arrive early to enjoy free morning meditation sessions. Locals deem this a very special place where guests are made to feel welcome.

154 Main Road, Muizenberg

The Africa Café

The Africa Café has recently reinvented itself by adding raw foods to the menu with ingredients sourced mostly from their own garden. The African-style décor adds an authenticity to the restaurant. Chef and owner Portia De Smidt believes in serving raw foods as nutrients remain in the ingredients as they have not been cooked out. A visit to this café will make for a great night with loved ones.

108 Shortmarket Street, Heritage Square, City Centre

Punjab Express

As with many Indian restaurants there are a great variety of vegetarian dishes that are incredibly delicious and satisfying. A must try is their Amritsari chole, a chickpea based dish that has an authentic Punjabi taste. Their food is fantastic, unpretentious and satisfying. Visit Punjab Express for a sensational taste experience.

10 Bell Crescent, Westlake Business Park, Tokai

Myoga

For an evening of fine dining and fun, visit Myoga. If it’s your first time visiting this restaurant, come hungry and ready for a taste explosion. Opt for their seven course tasting menu, featuring non-vegetarian and vegetarian dishes such as pear blue vein macaroons, butter turmeric root paneer and stinging nettle naartjie risotto. Sit on their gorgeous terrace and relish in the delicate variety of fabulous fare.

60 Colinton Road (off Protea Road) Newlands

You’re welcome, kids. Now go and eat all the food.