When I first came to UBC, Val’s blog post Plant-based Options at UBC! was my go-to guide. But a lot has changed since then. Places have shut down, new spots have opened, and the overall campus food scene has evolved to be more vegan-friendly. Over the past year, I’ve been keeping track of my favourite plant-based meals
Grocery Checkout
Ground Level of The Nest
If you’re in the mood for hot comfort food, Grocery Checkout serves up rotating Indian-style dishes. I’ve picked up rajma (kidney bean curry), chana masala, and turmeric tofu puff, all of which are vegan and super flavorful. It’s grab-and-go, but the portions are generous, and it feels
The Delly
Lower Level of The Nest
The Delly is a bit of a hidden gem. Their tofu wrap is packed with fresh veggies and a sweet chilli sauce. It’s surprisingly filling. They also offer rotating cold salads, and I’ve had luck with options like lentil tabbouleh and couscous that are clearly labeled vegan. It’s a solid spot for a quick and budget-friendly lunch.
Big Way Hotpot
2155 Allison Rd
This is one of my absolute go-tos when I’m craving something warm and satisfying. At Big Way Hotpot, you can build your own bowl from a range of veggies, noodles, and plant-based proteins like tofu. Their vegan mushroom broth is flavourful and comforting, especially on a rainy day. You get to choose exactly what goes in, so it’s super customizable.
Mercante
6488 University Boulevard (near Ponderosa Commons)
Mercante’s rotating vegan pizzas are still a campus staple. I recently tried a vegan chicken and arugula pie, and it was amazing—crispy, smoky, and surprisingly hearty. Their use of ingredients like vegan smoked salmon and dairy-free cheese really makes a difference.
UBC Sprouts
Basement of LIFE
If I have a bit more time, I love stopping by UBC Sprouts—a student-run café inside the Life Building that serves entirely vegan meals. Their lentil soup and fresh bread combo is so homey, and I always leave feeling good—not just from the food, but from supporting something grassroots and community-driven. It’s one of the few places on campus that really centers sustainability and accessibility.
Pacific Poke
Main Level of LIFE
Pacific Poké’s veggie bowl with tofu, mushrooms, and ginger-jicama slaw is one of the more colorful and filling meals I’ve had at UBC. It’s indulgent, but still plant-based.
Honour Roll Sushi
Ground Level of The Nest
Sushi lovers aren’t left out, with outlets like Honour Roll offering inventive vegetarian rolls. The Spicy Crunch Roll is a flavorful option that doesn’t compromise on taste. I personally love their classic Maki Roll!
More Grab-and-Go Options
UBC has also improved when it comes to vegan labeling. JJ Bean often stocks a few vegan pastries, and Harvest Market is great for pre-packed wraps, bowls, and snacks. I’ve picked up everything from a Buddha Wrap to oat milk lattes there.
Being Vegan Beyond UBC
Check out my other blogpost, Vegan in Vancouver: Beyond UBC, where I share some of my favourite vegan-friendly spots beyond UBC—think cafes around Alma, downtown lunch spots, and cozy places to eat out with friends.
If you’ve found any underrated plant-based meals on campus, drop them in the comments! I’m always looking to try something new.
