Are you a vegan food enthusiast looking to explore famous international markets? Look no further! We’ve curated a list of the top vegan markets, from Barcelona to Chiang Mai that will leave you wanting more. Each market offers a unique culinary experience across dozens of vendors, with plenty of sustainable vegan options. From organic produce stalls to plant-based restaurants, these markets have a little bit of everything.
Top 10 Vegan-Friendly Food Markets Around the World
With the rising popularity of veganism, the demand for plant-based options has swept the globe. While some countries are better than others for vegans, food markets provide a variety of flavors in one place. Embark on a culinary journey and discover the diverse world of plant-based cuisine. Pack your bags and dive into these vegan markets!
#1. Borough Market (London, United Kingdom)
Borough Market is only one example of why London won the most vegan-friendly city in the world in 2022. Over 1000 years old, this bustling food market blends the old with the new. Wander under the ancient archways and discover why it is a renowned destination for vegans! Located in the heart of the city, Borough Market is one of London’s most famous street markets.
Offering a wide range of organic and local produce, some of the top vegan-friendly vendors include Horn OK Please (known for its delicious Indian street food) and Palace Culture, serving up vegan cheese. Whether you're vegan or just looking to explore plant-based options, it’s a must-add to your London vegan bucket list.
#2. Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria (Barcelona, Spain)
Going south to Spain, the Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria is a bustling market in the center of Barcelona. One of the city’s main attractions, the market boasts a rich culture with over 500 years of history. Travelers on a budget will love this market for all the cheap food available.
Discover highly-rated vegan vendors like Vegetalia, offering plant-based dishes made from organic ingredients. Head to Mama Juice Boqueria to treat your digestive system to some healthy fruit. And if you’re in Barcelona in June, please do attend the Barcelona Veg Fest: a unique event celebrating vegan lifestyles! Anyone curious about plant-based options should visit the Mercat de Sant Josep in Barcelona.
#3. Union Square Greenmarket (New York City, USA)
You might think the West Coast has the top vegan-friendly cities in the USA. But the East Coast will surprise you. New York City's Union Square Greenmarket is a lively farmer's market with boundless plant-based options. The Manhattan market began in the 1970s and has become a hub for local farmers and vendors. Browse the market’s fresh produce, artisanal goods, and handcrafted items!
Union Square Greenmarket’s vegan options include fresh fruits and vegetables. You can also find vegan baked goods at Body & Soul Natural Gourmet and speciality items like tempeh and tofu. The market also showcases its dedication to healthier habits with initiatives like Zero Waste (educating on proper conservation methods) and Project Farmhouse which explores environmental issues and promotes veganism. This market’s devotion to plant-based lifestyles makes it an excellent destination for vegans.
#4. Queen Victoria Market (Melbourne, Australia)
Ask an Aussie for vegan options in Melbourne, and they’ll direct you to the Queen Victoria Market (we also recommend general Melbourne tours, this city is fascinating!) This iconic down-town attraction is a famed destination for vegans. The energetic atmosphere offers many vegan-friendly options. Enjoy fresh produce and ready-to-eat meals. Several vendors focus on organic products, reflecting the market’s commitment to sustainability. Other eco-friendly practices include banning single-use plastics and recycling organic waste into energy.
Visitors will find plant-based restaurants within the market, like Eat Enjera or Oz Tibet Kitchen. With diverse offerings and delicious plant-based dishes, the Queen Victoria Market is a must-visit for vegans.
#5. Mercado de San Juan (Mexico City, Mexico)
Established in 1955, Mercado San Juan is famous for its upscale and gourmet foods. Located in the centre of Mexico City, this market takes its name from the ancient neighbourhood it stands in. Endless stalls of polished fruits and vegetables reveal a dedication to vegan-friendly offerings. The produce is so beautiful you’ll hesitate between biting into it or taking a selfie! Vegans can find unique Mexican products and ingredients here, like dried chiles and spices, fresh lemonades, mung beans and so much more!
Vendors are especially friendly in this Mexican market, so remember to ask for samples. The bright atmosphere and incredible selection make Mercado San Juan an essential visit for vegans in Mexico City!
#6. Marché Saint-Quentin (Paris, France)
Are you eager to marvel at the Eiffel Tower but don’t know if Paris caters to vegans? Fortunately, Marché Saint-Quentin is a popular destination for plant-based lifestyles. Found in Paris’ 10th district, the market’s vegan options meet its commitment to eco-conscious practices.
After exploring colorful organic fruit stalls, you’ll want to sit down for a delicious meal at restaurants like Bio Bowl (a French health-food chain) and As Rare, a charming Lebanese food counter with home-made vegan options. Marché Saint-Quentin is an essential stop for anyone passionate about veganism and sustainable food choices.
#7. Lau Pa Sat Hawker (Singapore)
Singapore’s humidity and hot weather can slow digestion. These steamy days call for light and energizing food. Lau Pa Sat Hawker is an acclaimed market at the city’s core with a reputation as a vegan-friendly hub. The market’s commitment to local farmers and producers ensures freshness and quality. Vegans have limitless plant-based options at Lau Pa Sat.
Try delectable vegan dishes at some of the restaurants in this monumental market, like Thunder Tea Rice (bright vegetable-based plates, yumm!) and Yong Tau Foo for tofu and soups. The eclectic market offers everything from traditional cuisine to international flavors. Lau Pa Sat is a must-visit destination if you’re looking for plant-based options in Singapore.
#8. Time Out Market (Lisbon, Portugal)
Time Out Market is a colorful culinary haven in Lisbon’s city center. A city-wide collaboration, Time Out has become a massive attraction for locals and tourists. Inside, you'll find traditional Portuguese cuisine with a modern emphasis on vegetarian dishes. Indulge at restaurants like Créme de la Créme, offering a traditional soup that represents one of the best vegan dishes in the world. Other unique restaurants like Croqueteria serve up flavourful vegan croquettes.
Time Out Market also hosts engaging cooking demonstrations. Travellers can learn how to make the iconic Portuguese treat, pastel de nata. If you’re looking for a good time paired with some vegan options in Lisbon, Time Out Market is a must-visit location!
#9. Chiang Mai Gate Market (Chiang Mai, Thailand)
Foodies flock to Thailand to try unique flavours and street food. The Chiang Mai Gate Market blends shopping, traditional cuisines, and vegan alternatives. The historical night market is an excellent stop for vegans. Food stalls offer flavourful treats like coconut ice cream, vegetable rolls and exotic fruits!
Eat at restaurants with plant-based options like Tien Sieng Vegetarian Foods or Turkish Kebab Zone. After stuffing yourself with street treats, join in on one of the market’s festivals and celebrate Thai culture and cuisine. The delicious array of vegan dishes at the Gate Market will have you returning for more.
#10. Atwater Market (Montreal, Canada)
If you’re searching for vegan options in Montreal, head to Atwater Market in the city’s south-west borough. The lively market has gained a vegan-friendly reputation. Discover unique products and specialities at Atwater, like plant-based desserts. Find vegan cheeses and decide which is the best dairy-free alternative.
You can also visit over the holiday season and experience exhibits at the Christmas Market, like À les Sens Ciel (which produces eco-friendly artisanal French pastries) and Violet Candles for vegan candles! Stop at Atwater Market any time of the year for vegan-friendly options and plant-based cuisine.
Wrap Up: Top 10 Vegan-Friendly Food Markets Around the World
These markets around the world offer incredible experiences for vegans. Enthusiasts can find markets from London to Montreal committed to plant-based lifestyles. With organic produce, renowned restaurants, and food festivals, these markets have it all. Add these markets to your bucket list and immerse yourself in cities with vibrant food cultures and diverse vegan cuisine.
Have you visited one of these markets and had an incredible time? Don’t see your favourite market on this list? Reach out and share your experience! P.S.: If you're interested in an app designed for vegans & wanna support the vegan movement and us, veganvstravel as well, use this link plz to download Abillionveg. When registering, please use our referral code: TRAVELLINGWEASELS. If you wanna know why we think this is a great app, read here.