When I was in my first year, I struggled to find plant-based options that I really enjoyed! Now that I’ve scavenged around campus for 3 years, I’m here to share some of my favorite spots. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just PLANT-curious about trying some vegan options, I’ve got you covered!
Porch
The Porch, located in the Nest, has a plethora of vegan options – from bowls, sandwiches and wraps, there is something for everyone. I like to get a custom wrap or salad when I go.
I discovered the Porch in my first year during COVID and it quickly became one of my go-tos because of the limited vegan options offered during COVID and the variety it offered. Whether I was craving a fresh salad or a warm curry, they always had options. Throughout the years at UBC, their menu has slightly changed, always making me curious and excited about their new offerings! Now in my 4th year, it serves as a nostalgic place I can always count on for food during busy school days.
Body Energy Club
Stay energized between classes with a vegan protein smoothie – they offer an array of flavors to choose from. Try one of my favorites: vegan activist Erin Ireland’s To Live For vegan banana bread!
They also offer a vegan breakfast wrap, falafel wrap and a Greek wrap (my personal go to) in the refrigerated section so whenever I am in need of a quick meal, I know where to go!
Great Dane
My favorite spot and arguably the best veggie sandwich on campus – scurry towards Iona and try one out.
Great Dane was recommended to me by my friend and it has been a staple for me ever since. Their sandwiches are served on fresh focaccia bread and if you order their veggie sandwich without cheese, you can enjoy a unique vegan option. It comes with a variety of veggies, hummus and a balsamic glaze – yum!
Rain or Shine
Try their vegan vanilla ice cream or explore their seasonal rotating flavors. It’s a perfect treat for those sunny (or rainy…) days on campus.
Whether it’s after a club meeting, or a hot summer day, Rain or Shine has been my go-to on campus spot for ice cream.
Honorable mentions: Mercante, Jamjar, Kokoro, Agora Café, The Gallery (in the Nest), UPmeals vending machine in Ike’s Café
Exploring vegan options at UBC is not only delicious, but also a step towards a more sustainable and ethical future. Whether following a plant-based diet or looking to try something new, UBC has something for everyone. Let me know some of your favourite plant-based spots on campus!
References:
Chai, Bingli Clark, Johannes Reidar van der Voort, Kristina Grofelnik, Helga Gudny Eliasdottir, Ines Klöss, and Federico J. A. Perez-Cueto. 2019. “Which Diet Has the Least Environmental Impact on Our Planet? A Systematic Review of Vegan, Vegetarian and Omnivorous Diets” Sustainability 11, no. 15: 4110. https://doi.org/10.3390/su11154110
