From A Vegan Guide To Bristol 2006

With a beautiful location down near the Cumberland basin by the river, and a rich and varied menu with a distinctly Mexican influence, there can be few better places to come for a bite to eat in Bristol, especially if you are vegan/veggie, as this is a genuinely meat free kitchen too. Sue and Steve run the café department of what is otherwise a co-op that organises the Centre as a whole, and they are justifiably proud of their meat free culinary creations.

It’s great to tempt people who are not vegetarian with our veggie food’ says Sue, who is vibrant and passionate about her food. ’And we like to support local businesses with our choice of spend too, so much of our produce is sourced locally.

And with dishes like the very popular Molé, which is a vegan chilli and chocolate dish, and Gado Gado (beansprouts on a salad base with peanut butter sauce with chillis), its easy to see why non-veggies don’t feel out of place when it comes to imagination, verve and taste. There are always salads available too, with up to seven variations during the summer months, and daily specials as well as jacket potatoes and brunch, so no shortage of choice, and all of it tasty as can be. Always veggie, often vegan, organic where possible, fair trade, GM free, lush location, lovely people – a true blueprint for the 21st century café.

There’s an outdoor play area too’ adds Sue, ’as well as the rest of the garden centre, so families and kids are very welcome. There’s a great view from the café window, and there’s nothing better than watching the kids play under the cherry tree, especially when it’s in blossom.’ That’s when she’s got a moment of course, which is rare as the café is usually pretty busy. Well worth a visit and warmly recommended.

Riverside Garden Centre Cafe - Best Veggie Places To Eat.