Savoring the Flavors of Spain: Vegetarian Eats on the Camino Frances!

The Camino de Santiago, a historic pilgrimage route in Spain, attracts thousands of walkers and hikers every year from all over the world. For many pilgrims, walking the Camino Frances is not only a physical journey but also a spiritual and cultural one. For those who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, finding plant-based food options along the way is essential.

Fortunately, there are many vegetarian-friendly restaurants and cafes that offer delicious and healthy options along the Camino Frances. As part of our sustainability initiatives, we make an active effort to support and encourage our vegetarian clients! One of our main efforts is encouraging our customers to eat one vegetarian meal per trip in order to reduce their Carbon footprint. Furthermore, we also encourage reducing meat consumption once they’re back home! Hence, in this blog post we’ll explore some of the best Veg restaurants along the Camino Frances, providing a guide to help vegetarians make the most of their journey.

1. Veg food scene in Pamplona!

Pamplona is renowned for its vibrant culture, historic landmarks, and the world-famous Running of the Bulls festival. But did you know that Pamplona also offers a thriving vegetarian and vegan food scene? Whether you’re a longtime vegetarian or simply looking for some healthy and delicious food options, Pamplona has plenty of veg-friendly restaurants and cafes to explore.

1. La Mandarra de la Ramos is a popular vegetarian restaurant located in the heart of Pamplona’s old town. The restaurant offers a wide range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including salads, sandwiches, burgers, pizzas, and more. The menu changes frequently, and all dishes are made using fresh, seasonal ingredients. The restaurant’s cozy and relaxed atmosphere makes it the perfect spot for a casual lunch or dinner.
2. Bar Gaucho is a popular vegan bar and cafe that offers a range of healthy and delicious dishes. The cafe is known for its plant-based burgers and sandwiches, as well as its fresh juices and smoothies. The cafe has a cozy atmosphere, and the staff are friendly and welcoming.
3. Guria offers a range of healthy and flavorful dishes. The restaurant’s menu includes salads, soups, sandwiches, and more, all made using fresh, organic ingredients. The restaurant offers a selection of gluten-free and vegan options, and the staff are happy to accommodate any dietary restrictions.

In recent years, there has been a growing number of vegetarian and vegan restaurants, cafes, and juice bars in the city. Offering a variety of plant-based dishes made with fresh and locally-sourced ingredients. Many of these establishments also use organic produce and prioritize sustainability. From traditional vegetarian restaurants to modern cafes and bars, there is something for everyone in Pamplona’s veg food scene.

2. Food culture in Burgos!

Burgos is a beautiful city in northern Spain, rich in history and culture. From its stunning architecture to its delicious cuisine, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this charming town.

Burgos has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the 9th century. The city was founded by the Moors, but it was later taken over by the Christians in the 10th century. During the Middle Ages, Burgos became an important center of trade, culture, and religion in Spain.

Burgos is known for its delicious cuisine, which features hearty and flavorful dishes that are sure to satisfy any appetite. While some of the most popular dishes in Burgos are meat heavy, we are going to explore the vegetarian options offered in Burgos.

1. El Huerto de Roque – This is a vegetarian restaurant that serves a variety of dishes including soups, salads, pizzas, burgers, and more. They also offer vegan and gluten-free options. Based on customer review some of their top dishes include Eggplant with goats cheese and Melocotón asado (grilled peach) with ice cream!
2. Cúrcuma Green Food – This is a healthy vegan restaurant in Burgos with a 4.7 google rating. They serve burgers, sandwiches, fries, and more, all made with plant-based ingredients. So you can grab your meal on a budget. If you’re lucky you can catch them on a day when they are having one of their lettering, beer tasting or carrycot workshops.

3. The gem of Leon!

The food culture in Leon is a vibrant and important aspect of the city’s cultural identity. Leon is known for its traditional dishes and local specialties, many of which are hearty and rustic in nature. Tapas are also a big part of the food culture in Leon. With many bars and restaurants offering small plates of traditional dishes to accompany drinks.

Local wines, such as those from the Bierzo and Tierra de León regions are commonly found in Leon. Overall, the food in Leon reflects the region’s agricultural heritage and emphasizes the use of fresh, local ingredients.

1. La Factoría Vegana Restaurante is a vegan restaurant located in the city of León, in the northwestern region of Spain. The restaurant specializes in plant-based dishes that are made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Their menu features a variety of vegan options, including appetizers, salads, main dishes, desserts, and a selection of vegan wines. They also offer a daily set menu that includes a starter, main course, dessert, and drink for a fixed price.
2. Restaurante La Unión is a traditional restaurant located in the city of Leon, in the northwestern region of Spain. The restaurant specializes in Castilian cuisine, which features hearty meat and game dishes, such as roast lamb, beef, and pork, as well as stews and soups. However, they also offer vegetarian and seafood dishes. Based on customer reviews some of their unmissable dishes include Ensalada templada de queso de cabra, Revuelto de setas, and Pisto!
3. Arepa Lovers is a Latin food restaurant located in the city of León, in the northwestern region of Spain. As the name suggests, they specialize in arepas, which are traditional cornmeal cakes from Venezuela, Colombia, and other Latin American countries. All of the arepas served at Arepa Lovers are homemade and gluten-free, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions. The restaurant also offers a variety of other Latin American dishes, such as empanadas, yuca fries, and guacamole.

Overall, while León may not be known for its vegetarian or vegan cuisine, there are several options available for those with dietary restrictions or preferences.

4. The last 100 kms of Sarria!

Sarria is a town located in the province of Lugo, in the region of Galicia, Spain. Galicia is known for its seafood and meat dishes, but there are also a variety of vegetarian and vegan options available in the region, including in Sarria.

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in vegetarian and vegan food in Spain, and this has led to an increase in the number of restaurants and cafes offering plant-based options in Sarria and other cities across the country.

In Sarria, you can find traditional Galician dishes made with vegetarian and vegan ingredients, such as empanadas (savoury pastries) filled with vegetables or tofu instead of meat, and patatas bravas (spicy potatoes) served with a vegan aioli sauce.

1. Ecoespazo VITRIOL has an organic and vegetarian restaurant that serves delicious and healthy food made with locally sourced, seasonal, and organic ingredients. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes that are inspired by traditional Galician cuisine, as well as international cuisine. Some of the popular dishes at the restaurant include vegetable stews, soups, salads, and homemade bread. They also offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan burgers, as well as gluten-free and raw food options.
2. Casa Morgade is a vegetarian-friendly restaurant located in Sarria, Spain. Some of their most popular dishes include the vegetarian pizza with goat cheese and caramelized onions, the veggie burger with sweet potato fries, and the quinoa salad. They also have a great selection of drinks, including natural juices, smoothies, and a variety of teas.

5. Santiago de Compostela!

And finally, we have the infamous Santiago! The final stage of the Camino Frances, where the way of St James resides. Santiago de Compostela, located in the Galicia region of northwestern Spain, has a growing vegetarian and vegan food culture. While traditional Galician cuisine is often meat-based, there are several restaurants and cafes that offer vegetarian and vegan options.

1. The Greenhouse is a vegetarian and vegan restaurant located in the heart of Santiago de Compostela, in the Galicia region of northwestern Spain. Some of the most popular dishes at the restaurant include the vegan burger, the quinoa salad, and the avocado toast. In addition to their main menu, The Greenhouse also offers a daily set menu that includes a starter, main course, dessert, and drink for a fixed price. However, The greenhouse opens at 7.30pm and is available for dinner seatings only!
2. The veggie Carmen offers a variety of plant-based dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Some of the most popular dishes at the restaurant include the vegan lasagna, the mushroom and walnut pate, and the avocado toast. The Veggie Carmen also offers a variety of events and workshops, such as cooking classes, yoga classes, and talks on sustainability and environmental issues. They also sell a variety of organic and natural products, including fresh produce, supplements, and eco-friendly household items.

In conclusion, the Camino de Santiago Frances offers a wide range of vegetarian and vegan dining options, making it an ideal destination for plant-based travelers. From traditional Spanish dishes with a vegan twist to international cuisine, there is something for everyone along the Camino.

Many of the restaurants source their ingredients locally, adding to the overall sustainability of the dining experience. Whether you are a seasoned vegan or simply looking to explore new flavors, the Camino de Santiago Frances offers a culinary journey that will satisfy both your appetite and your soul.

If you’re looking for more details on veg restaurants along the Camino Frances you can download our free e-book here!