Groningen

Popular Restaurants and Cafes

1. De Herbivoor

   • Cuisine: Vegan
   • Location: Oude Kijk in 't Jatstraat 26
   • Overview: A fully vegan restaurant known for its creative dishes and cozy atmosphere. The menu includes everything from burgers to pasta and desserts.
   • Price Range: €10 - €20 per dish.
   • Specialties: Try their vegan burgers and homemade cakes.

2. Bistro 't Gerecht

   • Cuisine: Vegetarian-friendly with vegan options
   • Location: Oosterstraat 53
   • Overview: A bistro that offers a mix of vegetarian and vegan dishes, focusing on fresh, local ingredients. They have a seasonal menu that changes regularly.
   • Price Range: €15 - €30 per dish.
   • Specialties: Their risottos and seasonal vegetable dishes are highly recommended.

3. Koffiehuis De Uurwerker

   • Cuisine: Café with vegetarian and vegan options
   • Location: Uurwerkersstraat 1
   • Overview: A popular café that serves breakfast, lunch, and coffee. They have a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, including sandwiches and salads.
   • Price Range: €5 - €15.
   • Specialties: Their vegan breakfast bowl and homemade cakes are a hit.

4. Paviljoen Dodo

   • Cuisine: Vegetarian and vegan-friendly
   • Location: Noorderplantsoen
   • Overview: Located in a park, this café offers a relaxed atmosphere with a menu that includes vegetarian and vegan options, perfect for a picnic or casual dining.
   • Price Range: €8 - €15.
   • Specialties: Their vegan quiche and salads are popular choices.

5. Sushi Time

   • Cuisine: Sushi with vegetarian and vegan options
   • Location: Vismarkt 24
   • Overview: While primarily a sushi restaurant, they offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan sushi rolls, making it a great spot for sushi lovers.
   • Price Range: €10 - €25.
   • Specialties: Try their avocado rolls and vegetable tempura.

Food Markets

• Vismarkt (Fish Market)

  • While primarily known for seafood, this market has several stalls offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and baked goods. Look for vendors selling organic fruits and vegetables, which can be great for self-catering.

• Groningen Farmers Market

  • Held weekly, this market features local farmers and producers. You can find organic fruits, vegetables, and sometimes vegan snacks. It’s a great place to explore local produce and support sustainable practices.

Traditional Dutch Cuisine and Plant-Based Options

Traditional Dutch cuisine is not heavily focused on vegetarian or vegan options, but you can find ways to adapt classic dishes:

• Stamppot: A traditional dish made with mashed potatoes and vegetables. Many restaurants can prepare a vegetarian version using seasonal vegetables.
• Haring: While not vegetarian, many places offer pickled vegetables or vegan herring alternatives.
• Poffertjes: These small fluffy pancakes can often be made vegan; check with local vendors.

Local Tips and Cultural Considerations

• Language: Most people in Groningen speak English, so don’t hesitate to ask about vegetarian or vegan options.
• Dining Etiquette: It’s common to greet staff and say thank you when leaving. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill is common.
• Availability: Many restaurants are increasingly accommodating dietary preferences, so it’s always worth asking if a dish can be made vegan or vegetarian.
• Social Media: Follow local food bloggers or Instagram accounts focused on Groningen’s food scene for the latest updates on new openings and special events.

Conclusion

Groningen is becoming increasingly friendly to vegetarians and vegans, with a variety of dining options that cater to these diets. Whether you’re looking for a casual café or a more upscale dining experience, you’ll find plenty of choices to enjoy delicious plant-based meals. Enjoy your culinary adventures in this charming Dutch city!