Whether you’re a BC local exploring the island or a newbie to the West Coast, the plant-based food scene won’t disappoint! And even better? — it can make an impact.

For conscious tourists, food matters.

Traveling (locally or globally) expands the soul, connects us with different cultures, and usually has us diversifying our palettes. For those looking to explore more responsibly, food is one area where your footprint matters – a lot.

How much exactly?

To put it in perspective:

• The footprint that comes from flying and driving is lower than eating animal products.
• 50% of the Earth’s habitable land is used for agriculture. (I know, it’s shocking!)
• Land & water use, GHG’s and deforestation from agriculture contribute to our changing climate.
• Agriculture is the leading cause of decreasing biodiversity.

If you are trying to be a more sustainable tourist, making conscious food choices is important.

Whether you’re a meat eater, vegetarian, vegan, or flexitarian – you will LOVE these 13 restaurants offering vegan eats. They might just have you jotting down notes on what to cook when you’re back home 😉

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West Vancouver Island

YaYu Café

YaYu is a plant-based café in beautiful Ucluelet, on the traditional territory of the Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ Nation. The owner, Sharon, strives to help us reconnect with the sources that sustain us — one delicious vegan meal at a time. From the Abundance Bowl to the Mac n’ Cheese, it’s impossible to go wrong!

Don’t forget to visit the local arts society next door while you’re waiting 😉

Ucluelet Brewing

While this brewery isn’t all vegan, it has some amazing options! I loved their seasonal fiddlehead salad, complemented with local craft beer and stunning views.

Look out for their Pod Pack brews on your way out, in partnership with the Pacific Salmon Foundation. Together they aim to enhance local populations of Chinook salmon, one brew at a time.

Bravocado’s

Plant-based eats, right in the heart of Tofino!

So many options to choose from, with the most delicious mushroom calamari I’ve ever tried. They use zero plastic for take-out, save on water, and have less emissions than your typical resto. So much so that they’ve reached Level 2 L.E.A.F certification. Check out the certification site for more Canadian eats that made the list!

They also bring in social efforts and add a 1% gratuity to support the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation Tribal Parks.

Photo credit (above, left): @bigaltaalman

Wild Mountain Food & Drink

You wouldn’t know it if you look on their menu, but a quick call to ask and turns out the chef can whip up unbelievably delicious vegan eats! (check out the risotto below). What caught my eye was the local and seasonal produce used in this family-owned, slow-food spot that’s easy to miss.

The husband and wife team partner with many local farmers and support campaigns that make local seafood accessible to those who need it.

Send in your vegan meal of the day and I’ll share it on the Savour the Detour Instagram page 😉

Stoked Wood Fired Pizzeria & Market

Stoked is a seasonal pizzeria using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible – and it’s right on the way back from a beach day on the South-East side of the island. The perfect way to end off a sunny weekend, their vegan marinara won’t disappoint!

For sipping they offer local craft beer, ciders, and wines from the island. Inside you’ll also find a small market, striving to support local creatives.

Shirley Delicious

This adorable A-frame is a great stop on your way to the West Coast beaches. Their seasonal local salads and avocado toast make the perfect combo for a lunch treat!

Trending lately? Corn lime chowder and vegan tofu burritos.

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South Vancouver Island/Downtown Victoria

Fern Café & Bakery

A local vegan café on the streets of downtown Victoria, Fern has all the plant-based goodies anyone with a sweet tooth could hope for. Before that, try out their poutine and veggie burger – both will have you coming back for more.

The coffee is also delicious and roasted locally – don’t forget your reusable mug!

Be Love

I’m not sure what was more mouthwatering – the vegan cheesecake or the seasonal soup & sammy! Everything at Be Love is carefully crafted, using 95% organic and plant-based ingredients. Items are also all wheat, gluten, and processed sugar free.

The menu changes with the season, so there’s always a new surprise around the corner 😉

Green Cuisine Vegetarian Restaurant

A little hidden in downtown Victoria, this vegan restaurant supports important non-profits on a regular basis. They have a buffet style kitchen with just about every option out there!

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East Vancouver Island

White Rabbit

My favorite coffee shop in Nanaimo, White Rabbit is the perfect spot for your morning locally roasted coffee or a satisfying lunch. Simple yet delicious, you’ll find yourself coming back 😉

The vibe on the back patio is always filled with adorable doggos and down-to-earth conversations.

Glow Juicery & Raw Food Café | Plantitude

Glow has unique plant-based eats on Vancouver Island, offering only raw food in Duncan with lots of health awareness. Their vegan butter chicken is not to be missed! And if you’re looking for a juice cleanse – this is the place. With multiple locations across Canada, they are aiming to make plant-based diets more accessible.

Plantitude is located in downtown Ladysmith, and is 100% plant-based. They use fresh, local and organic ingredients whenever possible. They also partner with lots of island-based suppliers, helping to support the local economy.

If you try anything – try the plant-based shrimp. No words.

Duncan Garage Café & Bakery

This spot in Duncan is perfect for a weekend après-farmer’s market trip. They have both vegetarian and vegan options, all with organic ingredients. The quinoa patty with seasonal veggies was our go-to!

Eve Olive

Located in North Nanaimo, Eve Olive is a plant-based restaurant in a tranquil setting. Their sweet potato ravioli was delicious, and we can’t wait to go back for their “cheese” boards!

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Know of more plant-based eats on Vancouver Island? Tag us on Instagram! And if you’re passing through for a vacay on the island, make sure to look out for sustainable accommodations near these delicious eats. Here’s how!

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Photo credits: all photos are my own unless otherwise mentioned.