London’s 1000-Year-Old Foodie Paradise
Borough Market stands as London’s oldest and most prestigious food market, with over 1000 years of culinary history beneath its iconic Victorian railway arches. While traditionally known for artisanal meats and cheeses, this historic marketplace has embraced the plant-based revolution, offering an impressive array of vegan street food, specialty products, and entirely plant-based restaurants that rival any culinary destination in the world.
A Millennium of Market History
The Ancient Origins (1014-1756) Borough Market’s story begins over a millennium ago, with the first recorded mention in 1014 when Snorri Sturluson described Southwark as a “great market town.” Strategically positioned at the southern end of London Bridge—the only crossing point into the capital for centuries—the market capitalized on the constant flow of travelers, farmers, and merchants entering London.
Originally located on Borough High Street, the market grew organically around the bridge approach, creating such significant congestion that Parliament was forced to act. The Borough Market Act of 1756 relocated the entire operation to its current 4.5-acre site on Southwark Street, establishing the institutional framework that governs the market to this day.
Victorian Transformation (1850s-1860s) The market’s current magnificent buildings were designed by Henry Rose in 1851, with the distinctive railway viaducts added in the 1860s. These iron and glass Victorian structures, originally built to accommodate the expanding railway network connecting London Bridge to Cannon Street and Charing Cross, now create the atmospheric covered spaces that house over 100 traders beneath their soaring arches.
Modern Renaissance (1990s-Present) After declining to near-closure in the 1990s, Borough Market underwent a remarkable transformation from wholesale market to London’s premier foodie destination. The introduction of the Food Lovers’ Fair in 1998, organized by food writer Henrietta Green, attracted artisanal producers who became the foundation of today’s diverse marketplace. This renaissance perfectly positioned Borough Market to embrace the growing demand for plant-based cuisine that has exploded across London in recent years.
Fully Vegan & Vegetarian Establishments
Horn OK Please ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cuisine: Indian Vegetarian Street Food
Location: Near Winchester Walk entrance
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5 (1,200+ reviews)
Speciality: Fresh handmade dosas and Indian street snacks
Horn OK Please has become Borough Market’s most beloved vegetarian stall, with the vast majority of their menu being completely vegan. Named after the ubiquitous slogan painted on Indian trucks, this vibrant stall captures the authentic atmosphere of Mumbai street food.
Must-Try Dishes: Moong Dal Dosa (split yellow lentil crepes), Samosa Chaat, Bhel Puri, and their famous masala chai
Customer Review: “The moong dal dosa is absolutely incredible – crispy on the outside, perfectly spiced masala potatoes inside, served with coconut chutney and sambar. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve had this for lunch!” – Sarah M., Google Reviews
Vegan Options: 90% of menu is vegan, clearly marked
Gujarati Rasoi ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cuisine: Gujarati Indian Vegetarian
Location: Park Street entrance area
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.6/5 (800+ reviews)
Speciality: Traditional Gujarati thali and street food
Serving generational recipes using only fresh ingredients and whole spices, Gujarati Rasoi offers an authentic taste of Gujarat’s rich vegetarian culinary tradition.
Must-Try Dishes: Vegan Thali, Onion Bhaji (cricket ball-sized!), Samosas, Chana Chaat
Customer Review: “Their chaat is absolutely divine – a delicious black chickpea dish that’s packed with flavor. The warming dhal made with split mung beans is comfort food at its finest.” – Meat Free Fitness Blog
Vegan Options: Most items naturally vegan, some dairy-based options clearly marked
Khanom Krok ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cuisine: Authentic Thai Street Food
Location: Near Borough High Street entrance
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.7/5 (550+ reviews)
Speciality: Traditional Thai coconut pancakes
Run by a dedicated husband and wife team, Khanom Krok specializes in authentic Thai street snacks that are naturally vegan and bursting with traditional flavors.
Must-Try Dishes: Khanom Krok (coconut pancakes), Mango with Sticky Rice
Customer Review: “These delightful coconut pancakes have a crispy bottom and warm custard center – they’re unique and perfectly capture the essence of Thai street food. The mango sticky rice is equally authentic.” – TripAdvisor User
Vegan Options: Signature dishes are naturally vegan
Juma Kitchen (Iraqi Street Food) ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cuisine: Iraqi-Inspired Street Food
Location: Middle Road area
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.3/5 (400+ reviews)
Speciality: Modern Iraqi cuisine with extensive vegan options
Chef Philip Juma brings the rich flavors of traditional Iraqi cuisine to Borough Market with an innovative menu that celebrates both meat and plant-based options.
Must-Try Dishes: Bamia Okra Stew, Mushroom Kubba, Fattoush Salad, Fresh Tanoor Bread
Customer Review: “The bamia okra stew is a revelation – rich, warming, and packed with Middle Eastern spices. You get a warm and friendly welcome that makes you feel like you’re eating in someone’s home.” – Borough Market Visitor
Vegan Options: Multiple clearly marked vegan dishes
Padre ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cuisine: Mexican Street Food
Location: Park Street area
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.2/5 (300+ reviews)
Speciality: Authentic Mexican tacos with creative vegan alternatives
After falling in love with Mexican cuisine during extensive travels, Nicholas Fitzgerald opened Padre to bring authentic flavors to London with thoughtful vegan adaptations.
Must-Try Dishes: Cauliflower Al Pastor, Crispy Potato Tacos, Tortilla Chips & Salsa
Customer Review: “The cauliflower al pastor is brilliantly spiced and the crispy potato side dish goes amazing with any main. Really authentic Mexican flavors.” – Food Blogger Review
Vegan Options: Clearly marked vegan alternatives to traditional dishes
Outstanding Mixed Menus with Excellent Vegan Options
The Big V ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cuisine: 100% Vegan Burgers & Hot Dogs
Location: Near Stoney Street
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.8/5 (2,100+ reviews)
Speciality: Seitan mushroom burgers that taste remarkably like meat
The Big V has gained legendary status at Borough Market, with queues often snaking around the corner for their incredible vegan burgers that even dedicated carnivores rave about.
Must-Try Dishes: Classic Vegan Burger with ‘Facon’, Chimichurri Hot Dog, V-Bowls
Customer Review: “These vegan burgers are famous for a reason – the burger patties look and taste incredibly ‘meaty’ and topped with slow roasted tomato relish, house burger sauce, pickles and red onion, they really are the perfect burger experience.” – Meat Free Fitness
Vegan Options: 100% vegan establishment
Koshari Street ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cuisine: Egyptian Street Food
Location: Multiple Borough Market locations
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.4/5 (314 reviews)
Speciality: Egypt’s national dish – naturally vegan koshari
Koshari Street brings Egypt’s beloved national dish to London – a hearty combination of rice, pasta, lentils, and chickpeas that legend says fueled the builders of the Great Pyramids.
Must-Try Dishes: Classic Koshari, Egyptian Salads, Falafel Wraps
Customer Review: “I lived in Egypt for a few years and love Koshari… I’ve never seen it outside Egypt before so I was really pleased to come across this place. A full and happy tummy for just a few quid and vegetarian and vegan friendly to boot.” – TripAdvisor Review
Vegan Options: Traditional koshari is naturally vegan
Humble Crumble ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cuisine: British Desserts
Location: Stoney Street (the bright pink stall)
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.6/5 (1,800+ reviews)
Speciality: Traditional British crumble with vegan options
In just four years, Humble Crumble has become Borough Market’s defining dessert destination, faithfully recreating Britain’s most beloved comfort dessert with vegan adaptations.
Must-Try Dishes: Classic Apple & Cinnamon Crumble with Vegan Custard
Customer Review: “Just make sure you ask for vegan crumble and custard – it’s absolutely divine! Be warned though, the queue is fearsome, so get there early.” – Totally Tailored Tours
Vegan Options: Vegan crumble and custard available on request
Arabica To Go ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cuisine: Lebanese & Middle Eastern
Location: Next to Arabica Bar + Kitchen
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.3/5 (500+ reviews)
Speciality: Fresh Middle Eastern street food
Operating for over 20 years, Arabica has become a Borough Market institution, offering authentic Lebanese flavors with excellent vegan options.
Must-Try Dishes: Falafel Wraps, Fresh Hummus, Middle Eastern Salads
Customer Review: “The falafel is incredible and the hummus is so fresh and creamy. Perfect for a quick, healthy lunch that doesn’t compromise on flavor.” – Market Regular
Vegan Options: Multiple clearly marked vegan options
Gourmet Goat ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cuisine: Greek-Cypriot Street Food
Location: Green Market area
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.1/5 (350+ reviews)
Speciality: Zero-waste Eastern Mediterranean cuisine
Despite their name suggesting otherwise, Gourmet Goat offers excellent vegan Eastern Mediterranean dishes using sustainable, zero-waste methods.
Must-Try Dishes: Vegan Wrap (hummus, beetroot slaw, cucumber pickles), Vegan Bulgur Pilaf
Customer Review: “Their vegan wrap is surprisingly filling and the beetroot slaw adds such a nice crunch. Love that they focus on sustainability too.” – Eco-Conscious Foodie
Vegan Options: Clearly marked vegan wraps, salads, and sides
Sweet Treats & Desserts
Doughnut Time ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cuisine: Artisanal Doughnuts
Location: 55 Borough High Street (across from main market)
TripAdvisor Rating: 3.6/5 (329 reviews, mixed but vegan options highly rated)
Speciality: Pop culture-inspired doughnuts with 50% vegan selection
Founded in Australia and brought to London in 2017, Doughnut Time creates Instagram-worthy doughnuts with celebrity-inspired names, offering an impressive range of vegan options clearly labeled.
Must-Try Vegan Flavors: David Hassel-Biscoff (Lotus Biscoff filled), Liam Hemsworthy (red velvet), The O.G. (classic glazed)
Customer Review: “In a city with tons of doughnut choices, Doughnut Time rules as top tier! They offer half regular & half vegan (labeled clear!) – which is impressive! The vegan ones are massive, well worth the price.” – TripAdvisor Review
Vegan Options: Approximately 50% of menu is vegan, clearly labeled
Free From Bakehouse ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cuisine: Gluten-Free & Vegan Baked Goods
Location: Various stalls throughout market
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5 (200+ reviews)
Speciality: Award-winning allergen-free baked treats
Specializing in baked goods free from major allergens, Free From Bakehouse offers an increasing number of vegan options that don’t sacrifice taste or texture.
Must-Try Items: Vegan Brownies, Dairy-Free Cakes, Gluten-Free Cookies
Customer Review: “You’d never know these brownies were vegan – they’re rich, decadent, and absolutely delicious. Perfect for anyone with dietary restrictions.” – Happy Customer
Vegan Options: Growing selection of clearly marked vegan treats
Sweet Roots ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cuisine: Artisanal Confectionery
Location: Park Street area
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.4/5 (180+ reviews)
Speciality: Vegan liquorice and traditional sweets
For something uniquely British, Sweet Roots offers a vast array of liquorice treats with clear vegan labeling, including the novelty of raw liquorice root to chew.
Must-Try Items: Vegan Liquorice Selection, Raw Liquorice Root
Customer Review: “Such a unique find! The vegan liquorice selection is incredible and you can even buy raw liquorice root to chew on. Never seen anything like it.” – Confectionery Enthusiast
Vegan Options: Wide variety of vegan liquorice and sweets
Borough Market’s Crown Jewel: Mallow Restaurant
Mallow ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cuisine: 100% Plant-Based Fine Dining
Location: Winchester Walk (overlooking the market)
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.7/5 (1,200+ reviews)
Speciality: Seasonal, sustainable vegan cuisine
Though technically adjacent to rather than within the market, Mallow deserves special mention as London’s premier plant-based restaurant with a direct view of Borough Market. Created by the legendary team behind Mildreds in Soho, Mallow represents the pinnacle of plant-based dining.
Must-Try Dishes: Market Thali (seasonal selection), Poached Apricot Crème Brûlée, Beetroot Tempeh Smash Burger
Customer Review: “Mallow is incredible – the menu is inspired by flavors from all over the world with fresh, colorful food that’s seasonal and sustainable. The market thali lets you experience multiple uniquely crafted dishes.” – Plant-Based London
Vegan Options: 100% plant-based restaurant
Fresh Produce & Specialty Vendors
Ted’s Veg ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Speciality: Organic seasonal vegetables
Perfect for: Home cooking enthusiasts seeking premium plant-based ingredients
Chegworth Valley ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Speciality: Seasonal British fruit and pressed juices
Perfect for: Fresh, locally-sourced produce and natural drinks
Monmouth Coffee Company ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Speciality: Freshly roasted coffee with oat milk options
Perfect for: Coffee lovers seeking expert roasts with plant milk alternatives
Customer Review: “Be prepared to queue, but the oat milk iced latte is absolutely worth it. The staff come out with notebooks and pens – it’s such a lovely old-school experience.” – Coffee Enthusiast
Practical Information for Vegan Visitors
Opening Hours:
- Retail Market: Wednesday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 10am-3pm
- Wholesale: Monday-Friday 2am-8am (for trade customers)
- Saturday: Opens at 8am (less crowded early)
Getting There:
- Nearest Station: London Bridge (2-minute walk)
- Address: 8 Southwark Street, London SE1 1TL
- Postcode for GPS: SE1 1TL
Vegan Shopping Tips:
- Start Early: Saturday mornings (8-10am) offer the best selection with smaller crowds
- Bring Cash: Many smaller stalls prefer cash, though most accept cards
- Ask Questions: Vendors are knowledgeable and happy to explain ingredients
- Sample First: Many stalls offer tastings, especially for specialty items
- Look for Yellow Flags: During Thai Vegetarian Festival (October), yellow flags indicate vegan food
Budget Considerations:
- Street Food Meals: £4-12 per portion
- Premium Items: £15-25 for specialty products
- Drinks: £3-6 for fresh juices, coffee
- Desserts: £4-8 for artisanal treats
Dietary Notes:
- Most vendors understand “vegan” but some may be more familiar with “no meat, dairy, or eggs”
- Always double-check ingredients for items like pastry (may contain butter) or bread (may contain milk)
- Many “accidentally vegan” items throughout the market (fruits, vegetables, certain breads)
The Future of Plant-Based Borough Market
Borough Market’s embrace of plant-based cuisine reflects London’s broader culinary evolution. From its medieval origins serving livestock and basic produce to today’s sophisticated vegan establishments, the market continues its thousand-year tradition of adapting to changing tastes and dietary preferences.
Recent additions like The Big V’s phenomenal success and Mallow’s critical acclaim demonstrate that vegan food at Borough Market isn’t just an alternative—it’s often the headline attraction. As consumer demand for sustainable, ethical, and health-conscious food continues to grow, Borough Market’s plant-based offerings are positioned to expand even further.
Instagram-Worthy Spots:
- The Big V’s famous burger queue
- Khanom Krok’s traditional Thai pancake preparation
- Doughnut Time’s colorful window display
- Mallow’s elegant plated dishes overlooking the market
Seasonal Highlights:
- Spring: Fresh asparagus, early berries, seasonal salads
- Summer: Stone fruits, herbs, outdoor seating at Mallow
- Autumn: Apple crumbles, squash dishes, mushroom specialties
- Winter: Warming soups, root vegetables, festive specialties
Whether you’re a committed vegan, curious omnivore, or simply someone who appreciates exceptional food, Borough Market’s plant-based offerings represent some of London’s finest culinary experiences. This thousand-year-old market proves that tradition and innovation can flourish together, creating a unique destination where ancient trading heritage meets cutting-edge plant-based cuisine.
The market’s commitment to sustainable practices, community support, and culinary excellence ensures that its vegan vendors aren’t just following a trend—they’re helping to define the future of food in one of the world’s greatest cities.
