Veganism arrived in Lisbon only a short while ago. But when it landed on the dining scene, it did so in a big way.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Portugal is known for its fish, seafood<\/a>, pork, and cheese. But vegetables? Not so much. Until a couple of years ago, your best hope of finding a vegetable was to order the soup at a typical restaurant. The token vegetarian dish was often an omelet. But now a big movement is brewing, with a new emphasis on plant-based diets, both for the health of the planet and for the health of people who consume them. Now there is more than a handful of appealing vegetarian and vegetarian-friendly restaurants<\/a>. And most of them have at least a few vegan options. But for visitors who want to stay completely clear of animal products, here are the best spots for vegan food in Lisbon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Photo Credit: Ella Olsson<\/a>, Text Overlay: Devour Lisbon Food Tours<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Ao 26 – Vegan Food Project<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

A pioneer on the scene for vegan food in Lisbon, Ao 26<\/a> (“to 26” on its street in Chiado) continues to serve reliable international and Portuguese-inspired cuisine. Expect a “bifana<\/a>“<\/em> (normally a beef sandwich) of seitan and various vegan sandwiches on typical bolo do caco <\/em>(coconut bread) at lunchtime and heartier hot fare at dinner. There are vegan staples like lentil burgers and seitan steaks, but also delectables like mushroom, spinach, asparagus, and walnut risotto, and a gluten-free polenta with pumpkin puree and mushroom ragout.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. O Botanista<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Plants are a primary element in the decor at this new restaurant<\/a> near Cais do Sodr\u00e9, and also the only ingredient on the plate. The owners are the same people behind Ao 26, so it’s obvious that the quality will be high. Here they are especially devoted to unprocessed foods, and a majority of the menu-items are made in house. It’s worth a trip for the vegan desserts alone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n