You don’t have to be vegan full-time to benefit from eating more plant-based food. In fact, many of our KBPT clients find that adding a few plant-based meals each week supports digestion, energy levels, recovery and overall wellbeing, without feeling restrictive or complicated.
Whether it’s choosing a plant-based lunch after training, swapping one or two meals a week, or simply adding more variety to your diet, eating more plants can support fitness goals in a very real, practical way. Plant-based meals are often rich in fibre, antioxidants and micronutrients that help fuel workouts, support recovery and stabilise energy levels, especially when paired with adequate protein.
To help you explore some of the best local options, we spoke to KBPT personal trainer Lauren, who is vegan, about her favourite spots. These are her top 10 vegan cafés and restaurants in East London, ideal for post-workout refuelling, weekend brunch or grabbing something nourishing on the go around Hackney and beyond.
Why Plant-Based Eating Can Support Your Training
Eating more plant-based meals can be a powerful addition to your training routine. Diets rich in vegetables, legumes, wholegrains, nuts and seeds are linked to improved digestion, better gut health and more consistent energy throughout the day.
For clients training regularly with a personal trainer in East London or Hackney, plant-based meals can help:
- Support digestion and reduce bloating
- Increase fibre, vitamins and mineral intake
- Support recovery and overall health
- Add variety without overthinking nutrition
At KBPT, we don’t believe in labels or extremes. You don’t need to “go vegan” to see benefits. Think of plant-based eating as adding more plants, not taking foods away. Flexibility and consistency matter far more than perfection.
Lauren’s Top 10 Vegan Cafés in East London
All of the spots below are tried, tested and trainer-approved – perfect if you’re training around Clapton, Stratford, Homerton or wider East London.
Unity Diner is a fully vegan diner serving indulgent comfort food with a plant-based twist. Think burgers, loaded fries and desserts that feel satisfying rather than restrictive, ideal for a social meal or post-training refuel.
Dauns focuses on beautifully presented plant-based dishes made with seasonal ingredients and bold flavours. A great choice if you’re after something nourishing but elevated.
Merkamo is a vegan Ethiopian café serving rich stews, flavour-packed vegetables and injera flatbread. Perfect for sharing and trying something a little different.
A relaxed, community-focused café with excellent coffee and a strong selection of vegan food. Ideal for a post-workout coffee or a casual brunch after training in Hackney.
Known for generous portions, friendly vibes and affordable vegan comfort food. A great option for refuelling after a strength session or grabbing lunch on the go.
Located in Boxhall, Club Mexicana serves bold, flavour-packed vegan Mexican food. Their tacos and loaded sides are a favourite for good reason.
London’s first fully vegan pub, offering classic pub food done plant-based. Ideal for social meals that still align with your training and lifestyle.
Mandala Café focuses on wholesome, nourishing plant-based meals with balance in mind. A great choice if you’re training regularly and want something lighter but satisfying.
A local favourite for healthy, no-fuss vegan food. Perfect for takeaway lunches or quick meals that still support energy and recovery.
If you’re after indulgent vegan comfort food done well, Love Shack delivers. Burgers, loaded fries and treat meals that still fit into a balanced approach.
Balancing Plant-Based Eating With Fitness Goals
One of the biggest myths around plant-based eating is that it doesn’t provide enough protein. In reality, when meals are well balanced, it’s entirely possible to support strength training, fat loss and recovery with plant-based options.
At KBPT, we encourage a flexible, realistic approach to nutrition. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian or simply plant-curious, the key is choosing foods that support your training, lifestyle and energy levels.
If you’re training around Hackney, East London or nearby, these cafés make it easier to eat well without overcomplicating nutrition or sacrificing enjoyment.
Want support balancing nutrition with training?
Our all-female personal training team helps clients across East London build sustainable habits that work in real life.
Book a free consultation or a complimentary fitness check-in call with KBPT today and let’s make your training and nutrition work together.
