Plant Based French Riviera: Where to Find The Best Vegan Food in Nice
Looking for the best vegan food in Nice? Look no further. Nestled along the stunning French Riviera, Nice isn’t just known for its picturesque beaches and vibrant markets; it’s also becoming a hotspot for plant-based dining.
Whether you’re a local vegan, a curious traveler, or just someone looking to explore new culinary horizons, Nice offers a range of vegan-friendly spots that cater to all tastes and preferences. Here’s a guide to some of the best vegan restaurants and cafés in this charming Mediterranean city.
Best way to discover the flavors of the French Riviera? Join local experts on a guided food tour! My favorites include: Nice Afternoon Walking Tour with Dinner, Nice Small-Group Food Tour with Local Specialties & Wine Tasting and Provence Wine Tour – Small Group Tour from Nice.
1. Not Dog: A Vegan Twist on Comfort Food
Address: 20 Rue de la Buffa, 06000 Nice
Overview:
Not Dog is a revolutionary spot in Nice, redefining classic comfort food with a vegan twist. Inspired by the idea that plant-based eating can be as indulgent and satisfying as traditional fare, Not Dog focuses on crafting delicious vegan versions of beloved comfort foods. This café is a haven for those who crave hearty, flavorful dishes without compromising on ethical values.
Menu Highlights:
- Vegan Hot Dogs: The star of Not Dog’s menu, these hot dogs are made with plant-based sausages that boast a satisfying texture and flavor. They come with a variety of toppings, from classic mustard and ketchup to more adventurous choices like caramelized onions and vegan cheese.
- Petit Croque: A must-try, this French classic is so hard to find in a vegan version, it’s almost worth thr trip to Not Dog in itself. Yep, it’s made with vegan cheese and even vegan bacon.
- Milkshakes: Their vegan milkshakes are a delightful treat, with options like chocolate, vanilla, and berry, made with dairy-free ice cream and plant-based milk.
Ambiance:
Not Dog features a casual, laid-back atmosphere that makes it a great place to unwind after exploring the city. The décor is modern and minimalist, with comfortable outdoor seating that encourages you to linger and people watch. The café’s friendly staff adds to the welcoming vibe, making every visit a pleasant experience.
You might also like: FLAVORFUL FRANCE: 12 BEST FOODS TO TRY IN THE FRENCH RIVIERA , BEST VEGAN FRENCH FOOD IN PARIS: LE POTAGER DU MARAIS
2. Utopia: A Creative Vegan Oasis
Address: 6 Rue Delille, 06000 Nice, France
Overview:
Utopia Vegan & Italian in Nice offers a delightful fusion of Italian cuisine and vegan principles. The restaurant stands out with its inventive menu, which includes everything from hearty vegan lasagna to flavorful plant-based pizzas. Each dish is crafted with a keen eye for detail and a commitment to high-quality, fresh ingredients.
Menu Highlights:
- Pizzas: Utopia’s pizzas are a true delight. Choose from fully vegan comfort classics like Beyond sausage and potato, margherita or diavola (with spicy salami). Alternatively, save your pizza craving for dessert – Utopia’s Nutella pizza is to die for!
- Vegan Steak: That’s right – the entree menu highlight is their sirloin made of soy, served with a generous helping of herbed potatoes.
- Creative Pastas: Utopia offers a range of inventive as well as all-time classic pasta dishes, such as everyone’s favorite cacio e pepe.
Ambiance:
The ambiance is both cozy and modern, featuring a tasteful blend of rustic and contemporary decor. Service is friendly and attentive, adding to the overall positive dining experience. Utopia Vegan & Italian is an excellent choice for those seeking a delicious and compassionate take on Italian food in the heart of Nice.
3. Amour Pâtisserie Végétale: Vegan Pastry Perfection
Address: 10 Rue de la Liberté, 06000 Nice
Overview:
Amour Pâtisserie Végétale is a gem for those with a sweet tooth and a love for plant-based treats. This fully vegan pâtisserie focuses on crafting exquisite pastries that are both beautiful and delicious. And even an all-vegan French omelette! With its chic décor and high-quality offerings, it’s a place where vegan indulgence meets refined artistry.
Menu Highlights:
- Vegan Croissants: These are a highlight of the menu, boasting a perfectly flaky texture and rich, buttery flavor that rivals traditional croissants. Ideal for a morning treat or a snack alongside a coffee.
- Gourmet Tarts: The tarts here are both visually stunning and delicious. With flavors ranging from classic fruit to indulgent chocolate, each tart is crafted with care, featuring vibrant colors and intricate designs.
- Signature Cakes: The cakes are a feast for both the eyes and the palate. From decadent chocolate creations to light, fruity mousses, each slice showcases the café’s commitment to quality and creativity.
Ambiance:
The ambiance at Amour Pâtisserie Végétale is elegant and inviting, with a modern yet cozy design. Soft lighting, stylish furnishings, and a touch of French charm create a warm atmosphere ideal for enjoying a leisurely coffee or pastry. The attention to detail in the café’s design enhances the overall experience, making it a delightful spot to unwind.
4. Biogstore: The Vegan Grocery and Café Hybrid
Address: 29 Avenue Jean Médecin, 06000 Nice
Overview:
Biogstore is a unique establishment that combines a vegan café with a health food store. It’s an excellent destination for those seeking both plant-based groceries and a satisfying meal or snack. The café within Biogstore offers a range of vegan delights that are as nutritious as they are delicious.
Menu Highlights:
- Vegan Sandwiches: The sandwiches at Biogstore are both wholesome and flavorful, featuring fresh ingredients and creative combinations. Options include hearty grain-based sandwiches and light, vegetable-packed varieties.
- Salads and Bowls: The café offers a selection of vibrant salads and grain bowls, each packed with fresh, seasonal ingredients. These dishes are perfect for a nutritious lunch or a light dinner.
- Smoothies and Juices: Biogstore’s smoothies and freshly squeezed juices are a great way to get a healthful boost. They are made with high-quality fruits and vegetables, providing a refreshing and energizing option.
- Bakery Items: The bakery section features a range of vegan treats, including muffins, cookies, and pastries. These items are perfect for a quick snack or a sweet indulgence with your coffee.
Ambiance:
The atmosphere at Biogstore is casual and functional, reflecting its dual role as both a grocery store and a café. The space is well-organized, with clean lines and a straightforward design that makes shopping and dining convenient. The café area is cozy, providing a comfortable spot to relax and enjoy a meal.
Best way to discover the flavors of the French Riviera? Join local experts on a guided food tour! My favorites include: Nice Afternoon Walking Tour with Dinner, Nice Small-Group Food Tour with Local Specialties & Wine Tasting and Provence Wine Tour – Small Group Tour from Nice.
5. Koko Green: Modern Vegan Comfort
Address: 7 Rue de la Liberté, 06000 Nice
Overview:
Koko is a contemporary vegan café that blends modern aesthetics with comforting plant-based fare. With a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, Koko is known for its innovative menu that features a mix of hearty meals and light bites. The café’s minimalist design and warm ambiance make it a perfect spot for both casual dining and special occasions.
Menu Highlights:
- Vegan Burger: The star of Koko’s menu, this burger features a juicy, house-made patty that is both flavorful and satisfying. It’s topped with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and a creamy vegan sauce, served with a side of golden fries.
- Quinoa Salad: A refreshing and nutritious option, this salad is loaded with quinoa, roasted vegetables, avocado, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette. It’s a light yet filling dish that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
- Desserts: Don’t miss out on Koko’s vegan desserts, which include decadent cakes and pastries. Their chocolate mousse and carrot cake are particularly popular.
Ambiance:
Koko offers a chic and modern setting with clean lines, natural light, and a relaxed vibe. The café’s design is both stylish and inviting, making it a great place to enjoy a leisurely meal or catch up with friends over coffee.
You might also like: FLAVORFUL FRANCE: 12 BEST FOODS TO TRY IN THE FRENCH RIVIERA , BEST VEGAN FRENCH FOOD IN PARIS: LE POTAGER DU MARAIS
6. Saj by Milla: A Fusion of Flavors
Address: 10 Rue de l’Université, 06300 Nice
Overview:
Saj by Milla is a culinary haven that combines Middle Eastern flavors with vegan principles. The café’s name pays homage to the traditional Saj bread, a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, which appears creatively in various dishes. Locals celebrate Saj by Milla for its flavorful, authentic dishes that cater to a range of tastes.
Menu Highlights:
- Saj Wraps: These wraps are a highlight of Saj by Milla’s menu. Made with freshly baked Saj bread, they are filled with an array of delicious fillings, including spiced falafel, grilled vegetables, and tangy sauces.
- Mezze Platter: A generous assortment of Middle Eastern-inspired small plates, this platter includes hummus, baba ganoush, tabbouleh, and stuffed grape leaves. It’s a great option for sharing or for a varied meal.
- Baklava: For dessert, try the vegan baklava – a sweet treat made with layers of filo pastry, nuts, and a touch of syrup. It’s a rich and delightful end to your meal.
Ambiance:
Saj by Milla exudes a cozy and welcoming atmosphere with its warm colors and rustic décor. The café has a relaxed, homely feel that invites you to enjoy a leisurely meal and savor the rich flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine.
Best way to discover the flavors of the French Riviera? Join local experts on a guided food tour! My favorites include: Nice Afternoon Walking Tour with Dinner, Nice Small-Group Food Tour with Local Specialties & Wine Tasting and Provence Wine Tour – Small Group Tour from Nice.
7. Paper Planes: Best Brunch in Nice?
Address: 15 Rue de France, 06000 Nice
Overview:
Paper Planes offers a unique blend of vegan comfort food and artistic flair. The café’s name reflects its creative approach to plant-based cuisine, aiming to take your taste buds on a delightful journey. Famous for its vibrant brunch dishes and inviting space, Paper Planes is a must-visit for anyone interested in innovative vegan dining.
Menu Highlights:
- Vegan Quiche: Paper Planes’ quiche is a standout, featuring tofu base and comforting carmelized onions.
- Avocado Toast: This café’s take on avocado toast is a fan favorite. It’s served on artisanal bread with perfectly ripe avocado, a sprinkle of seeds, and a drizzle of flavorful dressing.
- Smoothies and Juices: Paper Planes offers a range of refreshing smoothies and freshly squeezed juices, perfect for a quick and healthful pick-me-up.
Ambiance:
With its eclectic décor and vibrant colors, Paper Planes creates a fun and lively atmosphere. The café’s creative interior design complements its innovative menu, making it an exciting place to enjoy a meal or a coffee. Especially during weekend brunch hours!
8. Vegan Gorilla – Update: Permanently Closed
Address: 5 Rue de la Buffa, 06000 Nice
Overview: Vegan Gorilla is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, offering a variety of plant-based dishes with an emphasis on health and flavor. The menu includes everything from fresh salads and wraps to hearty grain bowls and flavorful smoothies.
Must-Try Dish: The “Gorilla Bowl” – a nutrient-packed bowl filled with quinoa, roasted vegetables, avocado, and a tangy tahini dressing.
9. Chez Pipo – Socca
The list of best vegan food in Nice wouldn’t be complete without socca. Nice’s ultimate street food, socca is a close cousin of the Ligurian farinata. It is essentially a chickpea flour flatbread. Unless you top it with cheese or other non-vegan toppings, socca is actually a vegan dish.
Look for socca all around Nice but if you can only have one definitely head to Chez Pipo. Check out our detailed post on what is socca exactly and where to find the best socca in Nice.
Bonus:
When in Nice as a vegan, also look out for Hobo coffee shop (plant based milk selection in a hip space), Wakey (an all vegan drug store), Sawasdee (for Thai food), Naturalia organic market, Maître artisan – Papilla Glacier (rice milk gelato). And when stuck for a snack – resort to a freshly baked baguette with some local olive tapenade!
The Best Vegan Food in Nice?
Nice offers a fantastic array of vegan dining options that cater to various tastes and occasions. Whether you’re in the mood for a gourmet meal, a casual bite, or a peaceful café experience, these vegan-friendly spots promise to deliver delicious and satisfying plant-based dishes.
So, the next time you find yourself in this beautiful city on the French Riviera, be sure to check out these exceptional vegan restaurants and cafés. Bon appétit veggie food travelers!
Have you tried any amazing vegan food in the French Riviera? Is our list of the best vegan food in Nice incomplete? Let us know in the comments or tag @eightyflavors on socials!
OUR TRIED AND TESTED FOOD TRAVEL RESOURCES: Book a hotel with Booking.com. Search for the best flight deals on Skyscanner. Find the best local food tours on Viator. Browse curated conscious group trips with GAdventures. Get your travel insurance with World Nomads.
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