Hackney‘s Plant-Based Revolution: Modern Chinese Restaurants with Incredible Vegan Menus
Hackney, a vibrant and ever-evolving borough, has long been a hotbed for culinary innovation, with its streets teeming with diverse eateries that cater to every palate. In recent years, a particularly exciting trend has emerged: modern Chinese restaurants that aren’t just adapting to the plant-based movement but are actively embracing it, creating truly incredible vegan menus that stand shoulder-to-shoulder with their meat-centric counterparts. Forget the days of limited veggie spring rolls and stir-fried greens; Hackney’s contemporary Chinese scene is serving up imaginative, flavour-packed vegan dishes that redefine what plant-based dining can be.
From sophisticated dining experiences showcasing regional specialities to casual spots pushing the boundaries of traditional flavours, this curated guide highlights five of Hackney’s finest establishments where the art of modern Chinese cooking meets the brilliance of vegan gastronomy. Whether you’re a dedicated vegan, a curious flexitarian, or simply someone looking for an unforgettable meal, prepare to be captivated by the depth and diversity of plant-based offerings available. Get ready to embark on a delicious journey through Hackney’s most exciting modern Chinese restaurants.
Facing Heaven
Facing Heaven is a true gem in Hackney’s culinary landscape, celebrated for its stylish take on regional Chinese cuisine with a strong emphasis on Sichuanese flavours. This restaurant has masterfully crafted a vegan menu that is far from an afterthought, offering dishes that are both authentic in taste and innovative in presentation. Expect bold, aromatic, and beautifully balanced plates that showcase the versatility of plant-based ingredients. Their vegan mapo tofu, for instance, is a revelation, rich with fermented bean paste and fiery chillies, while other options might include delicate mushroom dumplings or creatively spiced vegetable stir-fries. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet welcoming, making it perfect for a special occasion or a refined dinner with friends. The attentive staff are always happy to guide you through the extensive vegan choices, ensuring a memorable dining experience. Read our full review of Facing Heaven here.
* Location: Broadway Market, Hackney, E8 4PH
* Website: Visit Website
* Price: £££ – Pricey
* Booking: Highly recommended (Book here)
Panda’s Kitchen Angel
While its name suggests an Angel location, Panda’s Kitchen (Angel) brings its celebrated Sichuanese prowess to the broader East London area, making it a must-visit for lovers of vibrant and spicy Chinese food with an incredible vegan focus. This establishment has earned a loyal following for its commitment to authentic Sichuan heat and numbing ‘mala’ sensations, and pleasantly, much of this culinary magic extends to their plant-based offerings. Their dedicated vegan section is extensive, featuring dishes like dry-fried green beans with minced plant-based protein, spicy aubergine in garlic sauce, and a fiery vegan Dan Dan noodles that rivals any meat version. The portions are generous, the flavours are robust, and the setting is lively and unpretentious – ideal for a casual dinner with friends looking for an authentic and exciting vegan Chinese feast. Read our full review of Panda’s Kitchen Angel here.
* Location: 342 Old Street, Shoreditch, EC1V 9QR
* Website: Visit Website
* Price: ££ – Mid-range
* Booking: Recommended for evenings (Book here)
Vegan Ginger Root
As the name explicitly states, Vegan Ginger Root is a dedicated plant-based eatery that focuses on bringing fresh, healthy, and incredibly flavourful Chinese-inspired dishes to Hackney. This is the place to go when you crave Chinese food that not only satisfies but also nourishes. Their menu is a testament to the creativity possible with vegan ingredients, offering a modern twist on classic favourites and introducing entirely new concepts. Expect dishes packed with vibrant vegetables, perfectly cooked tofu, and aromatic spices. From their crispy “duck” pancakes made with shredded mushrooms to their comforting noodle bowls and wholesome curries, every dish is prepared with care and attention to detail. The atmosphere is typically relaxed and friendly, making it a fantastic spot for a healthy lunch, a quick takeaway, or a laid-back dinner. It’s a true haven for vegans seeking authentic and innovative Chinese flavours without compromise. Read our full review of Vegan Ginger Root here.
* Location: 201 Hackney Rd, Cambridge Heath, E2 8NT
* Website: Visit Website
* Price: ££ – Mid-range
* Booking: Recommended, especially weekends (Book here)
Lucky & Joy
Lucky & Joy brings a fresh, contemporary, and wonderfully playful approach to Chinese cuisine in Hackney, and their vegan menu is nothing short of brilliant. Inspired by regional Chinese cooking with a distinct modern London sensibility, this restaurant excels at creating dishes that are both comforting and exciting. Their vegan offerings are thoughtfully curated, moving beyond standard options to present innovative plant-based creations that burst with flavour. Think crispy salt and pepper tofu, vibrant smacked cucumber salads, and imaginative vegetable stir-fries with unique sauces. The restaurant itself exudes a cool, minimalist vibe with a bustling, friendly atmosphere, making it a fantastic spot for a lively dinner with friends or a casual date night. Lucky & Joy demonstrates that modern Chinese cuisine can be incredibly creative and satisfying for everyone, especially those seeking exceptional vegan options. Read our full review of Lucky & Joy here.
* Location: 95 Lower Clapton Rd, Clapton, E5 0NP
* Website: Visit Website
* Price: ££ – Mid-range
* Booking: Essential (Book here)
Pig Heaven
Despite its carnivore-suggestive name, Pig Heaven in Hackney is a surprising contender for incredible vegan Chinese food, demonstrating the versatility and adaptability of modern Chinese kitchens. This spot offers a fantastic array of plant-based dishes that are both hearty and flavourful, defying any preconceived notions one might have based on its name. They excel in offering classic Chinese comfort food reimagined for a vegan diet, often featuring expertly prepared tofu, a variety of mushrooms, and fresh vegetables in rich, aromatic sauces. You might find delicious vegetable dumplings, satisfying noodle dishes, or even inventive takes on popular stir-fries. The experience here is typically relaxed and welcoming, providing a great option for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal. Pig Heaven proves that incredible vegan options can be found in the most unexpected places, making it a delightful discovery for any plant-based diner in Hackney.
* Location: 123 Hackney Rd, Bethnal Green, E2 8GY
* Website: Website details for Hackney location not available
* Price: ££ – Mid-range
* Booking: Walk-ins welcome, booking advised for groups
Explore Hackney’s Vegan Chinese Culinary Delights
Hackney continues to solidify its reputation as a leading destination for innovative and inclusive dining, and its modern Chinese restaurants are at the forefront of this movement. The establishments highlighted above are not just offering vegan options; they are creating truly inspired plant-based menus that challenge conventions and delight the senses. From the fiery depths of Sichuanese specialities to the elegant simplicity of contemporary Cantonese, these restaurants demonstrate that flavour, authenticity, and creativity can thrive without animal products.
We encourage you to venture out and experience these culinary marvels for yourself. Whether you’re craving bold spices, comforting noodles, or sophisticated small plates, Hackney’s modern Chinese scene has a vegan offering that will undoubtedly impress. These spots prove that the future of dining is diverse, delicious, and wonderfully plant-powered, offering incredible experiences for everyone who walks through their doors. Dive in and discover your new favourite vegan Chinese restaurant in East London!
