What’s dreamier than eating delicious, plant-based meal in the beautiful country of Italy? It’s a lot easier than you might think. From 5-star rooftop restaurants overlooking Rome to the most authentic Italian pizza you’ve ever tasted, there are options that both vegans and non-vegans will love. This blog focuses on three major cities- Rome, Florence, and Venice. Buon appetito!
Rome:
Rifugio Romano
This 100% vegan restaurant serves traditional Italian dishes. I was overwhelmed by all of the options on the menu. We split vegan motzarella sticks as an antipasti and I ordered Mezzamancia alla Gricia- pasta with smoked seitan, vegan cheese, and black pepper. I loved having the opportunity to have authentic italian dishes made vegan. The meal was *chef’s kiss*.
Buddy Vegan
Exhausted and jet-lagged, we got delivery from Buddy Vegan the first day we arrived in Italy. After trying the pizza I instantly noticed the difference in quality compared to pizza in America.
Barnum Roma
Traditional Italian breakfast usually consists of coffee and a croissant. So if you’re looking to switch things up, this cafe has healthy, American-style breakfast options. Can’t go wrong with avocado toast and a matcha latte with oat milk.
Mondo Arancina
We ended up stopping here twice during our time in Rome. Once while out shopping and then again after a night of a little too much vino (instant hangover cure). Non-vegan, but has vegan rice ball options.
Matter Terrae
This was one of the highlights of the trip and I really fell in love with this restaurant. They are truly transforming the restaurant industry with their emphasis on delicious, sustainable, and vegan-friendly dishes. Not to mention the jaw-dropping views from the rooftop. Definitely a core memory.
Florence:
Coffee + Kitchen
Coffee and Kitchen is known as “a space for coffee drinkers and brunch lovers”. It’s a vibey little cafe, located near the Santa Maria Novella train station. I ordered avocado toast with an apricot vegan croissant.
Misterpizza
You don’t have to miss out on authentic, ooey-gooey Italian pizza just because you don’t eat dairy! Misterpizza uses high-quality ingredients and serves traditional neapolitan style pizza. They offer vegan options with coconut-oil based mozzarella.
Gelato Festival
For gelato in Florence, try Gelato Festival. They have fruity, non-dairy options like cantaloupe and passionfruit. They also have vegan cones.
Shake's Cafe
For yummy, healthy options in Florence, check out Shake’s Cafe. Using produce that one of the owners buys from the fruit and vegetable market three times a week, there is an emphasis on freshness and quality. Their menu has lots of vegan options including smoothies, bowls, wraps, toast, and more. For a sweet breakfast, order vegan chocolate chip pancakes. Or try the vegan bowl for a filling, colorful lunch that will leave you feeling vibrant for the rest of the day.
Venice:
Crepes House by PePe
I have never tried crepes like this before. They have both savory and sweet options, many being vegan. I decided to try both. I ordered one Grecia Veg crepe which had hummus, roasted veggies, olives, and added sweet and sour tofu to it. I also got one Tradizionale that had hazelnut cream, bananas, and strawberries. I now have a whole new appreciation for crepes.
Gelato Di Natura
This gelato chain located throughout Venice has a few vegan flavors along with vegan cones. Try my favorite combo- a scoop of strawberry and dark chocolate together.
