Meat Free Meals…for Veganuary beginners
Discover Croydon’s vegan-friendly cafes, takeaways, and restaurants—perfect for Meat Free Monday or your Veganuary journey!
What would January be without a mis-guided notion of reinventing oneself? If you can’t face signing up for that gym membership (again) or if the thought of #DryJan makes you dry heave – you might consider a gentler step, of simply reducing your meat intake in 2025.
The latest stats suggest 16% of the UK population, or around 8.6 million people, now follow a meat-free diet – with plant-based lifestyles proving particularly popular with younger generations.
Whether you dip your toe in with #MeatFreeMonday or go all-in with the Veganuary challenge, Croydon has a range of cafes, take-aways and restaurants to cater accordingly.
Afghan Caravan, BOXPARK
What was supposed to be a 3-month pop-up (when it first launched at Boxpark in the summer), has extended into the colder months. So (at least for January!) you can continue to enjoy authentic Afghan food from a Croydon based shipping container.
Founded by Neelofar Abrahimi and brought to life by head chef Zulfia Abrahimi, Afghan Caravan preserves Afghanistan’s rich heritage through its culinary traditions.
As refugees of war, the mother-daughter team share a passion for building bonds and exploring cultures through food, offering a universally meaningful connection.
Those going meat-free can order the Vege Mantu (delicate homemade dumplings, served on a bed of garlic yoghurt, topped with a rich chickpea sauce) or choose from a selection of Crispy Bolani (handmade whole wheat bread sandwiches with delicious fillings).
99 George St, Croydon, CR0 1LD
Coughlans
It’s a big year for Coughlans. The family run bakery (which was founded in Thornton Heath in 1937) has just taken on comedy legend, Romesh Ranganathan, as a part owner/investor.
Romesh is the first non-family member to join the board – but, as a proud vegan, he’s been a loyal customer since his first taste.
95% of Coughlan’s product range (including sandwiches, sausages rolls and pasties) is vegan and if you’re keen to get friends and colleagues to join you on your meat free journey, you can order in one of their party platters.
Sweet tooth? The drippy cakes are a work of art while the cupcakes and gateaux will ensure nobody puts the vegans in the corner.
220 High St, Croydon, CR0 1NE
Chopstix
Need a meat free meal on the move? Chopstix (at the entrance of Centrale Shopping Centre) will whip you up your own great value boxed meal that’s packed with the tastiest of Asian flavours.
Designed to bring a faster and fresher alternative to high street, the Wok Master chefs deliver nourishing noodles.
Choose from a chow mein or rice base then add toppings according to your dietary preferences (the Salt and Pepper Potatoes or Cauli Bites are perfect for Veggies and Vegans).
Throw in a dip and a side of veggie spring rolls – and your good to go. All that time saved should help when you pick up your dining utensils.
Unit LSU2a, Centrale Shopping Centre, Croydon, CR0 1TY
The Truro
For those practicing (or practicing with) a Pescatarian diet – head to South Croydon.
The Truro is a local hidden gem for seafood lovers. Named after the ship that, in 1860, embarked on an epic voyage from the South of India to the western shores of South Africa, The Truro is a tribute to the cultural richness of those early pioneers.
Combining two continents on one plate, the Indo-African menu delivers authentic flavours that stay true to original recipes.
The huge Mozambican Grilled Prawns (served with signature sauces of lemon or peri peri) are legendary – and the meatiest crustaceans in town.
3-7 S End, Croydon, CR0 1BE
Crispy Dosa
This “100% pure Vegetarian” restaurant serves up an authentic taste of Chennai cuisine.
Having launched in 2009 with a vision to “become revered as ambassadors of South Indian culinary heritage”, there are now 11 branches around the world. For the uninitiated, a dosa is a thin, savoury crepe.
If you’re dining as a group – tuck into the 4 foot (!) Family sized version served with sambar, chutney and potato masala. All done with dosas?
There’s also plenty of curries, soups and snacks available. Whether you Dosa or Don’t Sa – it’s all meat free.
38-40 High St, Croydon, CR0 1YB
