But this has not put off the thousands of people in the UK who dip their toes into a plant-based diet in January.
Veganuary is a 31-day annual challenge that encourages people to try being vegan for the month.
But for those used to a heavy meat-based diet, the transition may seem like a big step.
So, to help, we have compiled a list of Worcester’s top vegan restaurants and cafes to inspire you in your challenge this month.
Reishi Plant Kitchen
Where: The Lamb & Flag, The Tything, WR1 1JL
The Harissa Hasselback Courgette starter. (Image: NQ)Based inside the Lamb and Flag, Reishi Plant Kitchen – whose name derives from a type of mushroom used in medicine – offers a wine-and-dine vegan experience.
The buisness, set up by Alexandra Eaton, aims to bring its visitors food that they can recognise but that is served without cruelty.
It serves ‘steak’, Greek-style ‘lamb’ burgers, and a traditional roast dinner.
No Frickin Chicken
Where: Bromyard Terrace, St John’s, WR2 5BW
RESTAURANT: Paddy Kelly and Hana Hughes with staff of No Frickin Chicken (Image: Sam Greenway/Newsquest) From takeaway van to a dinner in St John’s, No Fricken Chicken has come from strength to strength over the past few years.
Worcester couple Hana Hughes and Michelin-starred chef Paddy Kelly own the business, which offers a fast-food approach to veganism.
Despite being in St John’s, the pair still tours the UK in their food van and attends various festivals and events.
Little Bento Box
Where: The Gallery, The Shambles, WR1 2RD
Chloe Bourne started the business out of a takeaway van.The Little Bento Box is a vegan sushi company based in The Shambles which is serving handcrafted meals.
It is run by Chloe Bourne – a self-taught sushi chef.
The eatery dishes sushi burritos and bowls and has a nice selection of sides.
Pack It In – ZeroWaste
Where: Corn Market, WR1 2DJ
Phillipa Gilfillan – the owner of the store. (Image: Phillipa Gilfillan) Starting as a package-free shop in central Worcester, Pack It In – Zero Waste has transformed its shop also to provide cafe services.
Visitors can explore ways to reduce their carbon emissions and plastic usage while also enjoying cake, savoury food and hot and cold drinks.
The store owner, Phillipa Gilfillan, has previously won the Sustainable Business Award at The Muddy Awards 2023, run by Muddy Stilletos.
Impasto
Where: St Swithin’s St, Worcester WR1 2PY
Owner Adam Giangnotti (centre) with staff at Impasto.Now, this Worcester restaurant is not entirely vegan.
But, Impasto does provide a separate menu for those on a plant-based diet with a wealth of options.
From pizza to pasta to a range of desserts, you can enjoy Italian food while also being friendlier to the planet.
Chesters
Where: New Street, WR1 2DL
Staff from Chesters in Worcester (Image: Chesters) If you are looking for vegan and vegetarian-friendly Mexican food, then Chesters should definitely be on your radar.
Although this restaurant is not entirely vegan, its owners offer vegan alternatives to most of the items on the menu.
It also offers a wide selection of beers from across the world.
Pizza by Vinnie – The Oil Basin Brewhouse
Where: Copenhagen Street, WR1 2HB
Vincenzo Crudele, founder of Pizza by Vinnie, was a finalist for Pizza Chef of the Year 2024 (Image: Supplied)
Pizza chef Vincenzo Crudele, founder of Pizza by Vinnie based at the Oil Basin Brewhouse in Copenhagen Street in Worcester, is nationally renowned for his pizzas.
He came to Worcester from Italy when he was 24 and specialises in authentic Italian pizzas.
Most of his pizzas have vegetarian and vegan alternatives.