To Ana, food was everything. The one thing that saved her from the brink of collapse. Remembering the days where she had no money. Forced to live on rations, a climbing pile of debt swallowing her whole. One meal, parcelled out with care. Eyes wide shut, savouring each bite. Her stomach grumbling as the food danced down her rasping throat. Her relationship with food had always been complicated. Brought up in times of poverty, neglect and abuse. Remembering a childhood where food was eaten in front of her, crying out for her own. Restricted, she remembered that pattern of behaviour. How scared she was when she spent money. Wondering if she’d have more of those empty days. Mouth dry, hair peppered with gray. Charcoal eyes, reddened with a lack of sleep. A plethora of health issues, that became chronic. Someone who was broken inside and out. But what did this have to do with a mini vegan Valentine’s day? Well, her relationship with Valentine’s and food, was complicated.
Burrowing into toxic relationships. Thinking she didn’t deserve any better. Remembering Valentine’s hidden from friends and family. Made to feel like a dirty secret. Food restricted, told she was worthless. Watching couples plunge knifes into butternut squash bathed in creamy sauce. Forks twirling around homemade spaghetti, tomato sauce on their lips. An outsider looking in. Then. There were the single years. The ones were she had little money, forced to eat little. Rotted envy coursing through her veins. Watching her friends around her in love. Trying to be happy for them, a sour taste in her mouth. But now? Valentine’s and food were different. She was happier now, healthier. In a relationship for almost six years with someone that made her feel loved. Whose love language was acts of service. Cooking delicious vegan meals that made her salivate. Vietnemese Noodle salad drenched in chilli soy sauce. Ful Medames, and fresh falafel dunked into red pepper hummus. Vegan steak drizzled in peppercorn sauce, mash shaped in a heart, just because. But in herself, Valentine’s was a new experience. One where she could create a mini vegan Valentine’s day without pressure.
But what did that mean? She was someone who naturally was obsessive-compulsive. Binge eating, unable to stop. Making up for the times where she had no food. Thinking she would be that hungry, poor girl once more. At other times, the complete opposite. Who neglected herself, working through the hunger. No boundary between work and play. Desperate to make a difference. The hours whittling away, ignoring the pang. It was strange though. She loved food. She loved exploring new cuisines, transported to countries she had never been to before. Someone who was once labelled as a super-taster. Who spent a long time understanding all the senses. The taste, the smell, the sound, the touch. But complex trauma made it difficult. To not slip into old habits. To shed behind the healthier person she’d become. Someone who ate a lot, and revelled in it. Who found ways to create budget friendly meals. Who didn’t restrict herself. Who treated herself to date nights at restaurants. Who gorged on snacks, and didn’t care what people thought. Valentine’s was no different. She used to put pressure on the day. Create lavish five course meals, her cheeks reddened with stress. Anxiety clawing at her heart, take pause. No, this mini vegan Valentine’s day foodie guide was about being minimal. Gifts that were low-effort, but effective. Sweet treats that made her eyes dance with a thousand stars. Savoury delicacies that waltzed on her tongue. Vegan friendly restaurants that reminded her of how far she’d come. Staycations were she would allow herself to feel good.
For this Valentine’s day, she wanted to revel in the joy of food. Bathe in its essence. Inhale it, crave it, dance in its sauce. Sure, to most there was either ‘Valentine’s’ or Galentine’s. But 2025 was all about ‘Foodtine’s’. A celebration of food that made her and her partner feel good. Vegan cheeses slathered in a spicy chutney relish. Laughing as the sauce dribbled down their chins. A twinkle in their eye, a non-alcoholic bottoms up. Take the train, end up up in a vegan castle. Turrets spiralling across gray-muddled skies. Feet squelching in brown puddles, wind whipping through hair. The call of peacock, watch it proudly strut. A stroll to a farm, you step back in time. Squealing pigs, mooing cows. Two peas in a pod, animal obsessed. She, the veggie, since she was 17, him a meat-eater. Somehow, it shouldn’t work. But, despite their political differences, he appreciated the plant-based lifestyle. Ate vegan often, sometimes unable to tell. Conjuring up tofu chow mein, drizzle the soy. A vegan roast dinner with the crispiest roast potatoes you had ever seen. She wondered how this mini vegan Valentine’s would pan out. His face, revelling in her surprise. A cat cafe, with kittens waiting to be adopted. A black kitten with the most beautiful green eyes climbing into warm laps. A half-discarded afternoon tea, too entranced by cats. And he? He would take her to a secret restaurant. Would it be one of the ones she’d highlighted on this list?
Sweet Treats
Cake Or Death Valentines Hamper
Her partner was made of cake. Someone who was soft, kind, and made her feel good. Blurred edges, ecstacy with every interaction. Inhaling the scent, tasting the sweetness, lingering on her lips. On days where she was feeling down, she’d reach out for him. Sink into his sacchrine folds, let her read rest on his chest. Hands off her back, her trigger point, closing her eyes. Breathing in, 1,2,3. Was it a coincidence that his favourite sweet treats were brownies and cookies? She thought not. The perfect representation of his personality. The cookies, tough to crack, yet somehow, they would crumble with vunerability. Something that was eaten slowly. Not devoured in one. The brownie, everyone loved it. But not everyone understood its complexity. The richness in personality, more than what it seemed. The layers that you’d dig through to find the soft-ooey-gooey centre.
Was it any wonder then that Cake or Death Valentines Hamper was his gift? A mini vegan Valentine’s food haul that was him down to a T. The Valentine’s Brownie Slab, topped with dark and white chocolate and sprinkles. They would etch the letters together, break the brownie in half. A pink and red leopard print box, neon delight. Share the brownie like Lady And The Tramp, crumbs dancing down their shirts. Smeared chocolate lips, pop white chocolate hearts in waiting mouths. As if the hamper couldn’t get any better, he uncovered a cookie. Six chocolate chip cookies, she watched his mouth water. Taking a cookie each, how would it compare to the brownie? She couldn’t believe it was vegan. Soft, yet crispy, dancing on their tongues. A subtle hint of sweetness, what would they wash it down with? The mug was the perfect addition to the trio. Signature pink leopard print, pour in vegan hot chocolate that they had at home. Instant, stir the rich velvety goodness. A spray of vegan whipped cream, add some mini marshmallows. The two lost in a sugar crash, slumped in the chair with a smile.
Price: £50
PLAYin CHOC Organic Chocolate
There was something about a mini vegan Valentine’s day that made them want to unleash their inner child. Cheeks dimpling with impish smiles. Go Karting at an arcade bar, zooming down the track, losing control. Diving into a rainbow ballpit, disco lights dancing above their heads. A slice of pizza shoved into starving mouths, almost feral with need. Eyes latched onto video game screens, Nintendo 64, that was a retro throwback. Food was no different. A trend of ‘kidadulting’, even in the culinary scene. Retro meals inspired by Space Invaders, with a fine dining twist. An indoor theme park with control it yourself games, smushed hotdogs in mouths. Mystery food boxes, a toy inside.
PLAYin Choc was no different. A vegan, allergen-free, and plastic-free award winning chocolate brand that indulged in fun for all the family. But for Ana and Dan, it was never too late to live for your inner child. Chocolate boxes with collectable 3D toys, and animal fun fact cards. But what would they try? The first, a ToyChoc Box 6 Rabbits Gift Set. Open up the 3D puzzle toy, watch the rabbits boing. A carrot in its mouth, see what’s in the boxes. Delicious organic chocolate, shared between two. Their inner child sated, watching their adult self came back. Two chocolates begging to be eaten, what would they try first? JustChoc Box Organic Peruvian M.lk Chocolates, entranced by the packaging. Slabs of chocolate dancing in abstract shapes. Unwrap the cover, a hit of creamy, dreamy chocolate. One bite was not enough, six chocolates in plant-based home compostable film. But for D, her partner, the JustChoc Box Organic Peruvian Cacao Dark Chocolates was his cup of tea. Dairy, nut, gluten, soy and plastic-free. 100% organic, the first bite on their lips. A hint of coconut, vanilla slithering through.
Prices:
£15 ToyChoc Box 6 Rabbits Gift Set
£4.99 each JustChoc Boxes
Lola’s Vegan Cupcakes Selection
It was a tradition that she started two years ago. A cupcake for her Valentine, something small. When she was on even more of a budget than she was now. She’d make one, despite lacking baking skills. A half-baked effort but it was the thought that counted. Piped in double chocolate frosting, just the way he liked it. Slabs of brownies hiding inside the middle. Watching his cheeks redden with pleasure. Something he never had before. A romantic partner that was thoughtful. That genuinely cared. She’d put a candle on it, as though it was his birthday. Sing happy Valentine’s to him, a bubble of laughter, tears in his eyes. It was the small things that mattered to him. The acts of service. Someone showing they loved him. They understood him. She was his person, and he was hers. Two cupcakes; him a double chocolate brownie, extra indulgent. Her a passionfruit surprise, tropical and sweet, vanilla icing. But this year, she’d surprise him with Lola’s Vegan Cupcake Box. Something they had before, that she knew he liked. A box of six, in four sumptous flavours. See it on their doorstep, he lit up with glee. Wondering if it was the same tradition, upgraded to give him something more.
He looked pleased as punch. Diving straight in for the Vegan Brownie like she knew he would. Chocolate buttercream, topped with vegan chocolate brownie chunks. Chocolate ganache impossibly thick. A swirling of gold dust. Her, the obvious. The Vegan Raspberry and Passionfruit Cake calling her name. Light and fruity, the anthesis to the Vegan Brownie. Lemon and rapsberry sponges squeezed with raspberry and passionfruit compote. Dig into the passionfruit cream cheese icing. Fresh raspberries dancing on her tongue, freeze-dried raspberries too. Vegan Caramel Biscuit they tried together. A moist vegan caramel sponge, tasting each other lips. Biscoff biscuit spread iced with a caramelised buttercream. Biscoff biscuit crumbs drenched in a caramel drizzle. One more sweet treat for the mini vegan Valentine’s guide. Red Velvet, not usually one of their favourites, surprising their taste buds. Iconic vegan cream cheese dancing with red velvet crumbs. Peel the wrapping, plunge into mouth. Tangy, slightly rich, a hint of chocolate. Falling into a sugary stupor. A pre-Valentines watching Disney movies on the sofa. Numb cradled in blankets, eyes sinking shut.
Price: £22.50 for a box of six
Savoury Delicacies
La Fauxmagerie Vegan Cheeses
She knew vegan cheese were an aquired taste. That first try all those years ago, her nose wrinkling up in disgust. Soapy, she retched. Remembering trying to convince her partner to try it too. The look of horror on his face. A small bite, he spat it out. Vowing not to try it again. Until three years ago, when the cheese world changed. Finding vegan cheeses that were worthy of a mini vegan Valentine’s night in. Camemberts drenched in rosemary, and chilli oil. Break the sourdough in half, dance in a cheese fondue. Slices of smoked cheese slices, made from coconut. Add it to sandwiches, drench it in vegan mayo. A tomato bursting, cucumber sliced. But a vegan blue? That was a tricky breed. Trying to nail her favourite cheese, in a vegan form. Would they find a vegan cheeseboard that would dispell that sour feeling they had all those years ago?
La Fauxmagerie was on another level. Brixton Blue, an almond cheese that tasted eerily like the Roquefort that she once coveted. Beige white threaded with intricate blue, smooth on her rasping tongue. Sandwiched between vegan beef patties, a smash burger. Drizzle the mayo, add the ketchup. Tomato and lettuce, vegan butter on brioche buns. A glass of non-alcoholic wine in one hand, paprika wedges in the other. The Balham Blue enriched with sweet potato, inspired by Shropshire Blue. Fragrant blue notes balanced with annato, that slipped into her mouth effortlessly. Gargano Pasta threaded with spinach, a creamy sauce, crumbled with vegan blue cheese. But her absolute favourite? The Shoreditch Smoked. Tangy savoury cheddar with a hint of smokiness. Crumbling into her mouth like the Applewood smoked that she coveted. Smoked vegan cheddar mac and cheese, comfort food at its finest. A side salad, drizzled in olive oil and lemon. Garlic bread, homemade and vegan.
Prices:
£4.50 ( Waitrose) La Fauxmagerie Shoreditch Smoked Vegan Cheese
£5.50 (Waitrose) La Fauxmagerie Brixton Blue Vegan Cheese
Juicy Marbles Thick Cut Filet
She imagined them sat around their living room table. Red tartan cloth, a black cat waiting in its special pink chair. The couple side by side, holding hands while they ate. Vegan steak, torn into with flimsy knives and forks. Slightly pink in the middle, tearing apart like brisket. Melt in your mouth, drizzled in homemade peppercorn sauce. Piquant, their lips burning with heat. A drizzle of non-alcoholic brandy, watch it swirl on their plates. The creamiest, fluffiest mash, laced with vegan cheddar. Love at first plate, Griddled tenderstem broccoli, shavings of garlic. Parsnips roasted with hazelnuts. Carrots sliced into chunky sweet batons. Lemon kale, slightly steamed in the pan. Sweetcorn, and spinach, wilting into beige. Was it any wonder that they kept coming back to Juicy Marbles? Whose Thick Filet, marbled like the real thing. The main thing she missed when she went veggie. Knowing how romantic it was, to plate it up for her. Dinner at home, something different. Three choices, meals back to back. The first, a flavoursome Mexican Birria. The vegan steak slow-cooked, in a seasoned chili sauce. Peppers and carrots, sprinkle the cilantro. A dash of lime, sour cutting through spice. Peppers softening in a beige-red sauce, add some carrots for sweetness.
But the second? It was the chefs kiss to her mini vegan Valentine’s day gift guide. Something new, that they both hadn’t tried before. Yakamein, a Creole Beef Noodle Soup. Bell peppers chopped, hot sauce mingling with Worchestershire. Spaghetti noodles, almost al-dente, spring onions served on top. Cajun seasoning, sear the steak, shallots and garlic sizzling in the pan. A vegan egg, she never thought the like existed. Not homemade, but brought online. A drizzle of olive oil, sprinkle the rainbow sea salt and pepper. The third somewhat of a surprise, Nasi Goreng, with vegan beef instead of chicken. Stir-fried rice tossed with kecap manis, sweet soy sauce. Vegan eggs scrambled into rice, a touch of red chilli pepper. Sprinkle the cayenne, dice tomatoes and cucumber. Shred the beef, like pulled pork. Vegan fish sauce to taste. A non-alcoholic beer waiting, hops on their lips. They made a toast, their fifth Valentine’s together impending. Red heart balloons, swaying in the corner. Candles lit in a dim dark room. The scent of rose and jasmine perfuming the room with ardour.
Price:
£9 in Waitrose
Nonya Secrets Sauces
It was no ‘secret’ that her relationship with Valentine’s, food and money had been difficult in the past. The times that she was single, she’d dread that feeling of alienation. Nauseated by the happy couples around her. Wishing she could drown out the noise, and pretend the day never existed. Then there was the ‘casual indifference’. The days where she disassociated. It was just another day. Just like Christmas. Just like birthdays. But lately, it was a combination of two. A chance to spend it with the love of her life, yes. The happiest and healthiest relationship she’d had, her soulmate found at last. But it was another day. There were so many times where she put pressure on it. To spend excessive amounts of money, to show how much she cared. To pretend like she didn’t struggle with her finances. To forget for one day only. But that was the old her. The new her was about doing what she wanted to do. If she wanted to spend money on Valentine’s, she would do so if she could afford to. If she didn’t want to, that was OK too. Some treated themselves to Valentine’s self-care treats.
But to Ana, she always put her man first. Thinking of something savoury that he would like in his mini vegan Valentine’s basket. What could he use in his cooking? Sauces laced with spices that told stories from around the world. Fondly remembering the man who only cooked ‘chicken and bean’ wraps, seeing how far he’d come. Hungarian Goulash, add some paprika, a bit of chilli, fresh garlic. Slow-cooked, rich tomato coming through. Carrots, and potatoes. Peppers too. She handed him a parcel. He read the name. Nonya Secrets, he wondered what was in the box? Two sauces, imagining the possibilities. Chilli and ginger, fresh chillies dancing. A hint of apple, miso paste and tomato. She would make a Singapore Vegetable Noodle dish, with a chilli and ginger twist. Tofu twice baked in the air-fryer, thin noodles simmering in the pan. Tamari and snow peas, lime juice and soy. Mix in the paste, let it boil off. Green and red peppers cut into strips. The both of them twirling a fork around their noodles, looking into each others eyes. The second, something she had never cooked with before. Rengdang Curry Mix, with Kaffir lime. A curry at a fraction of the time, a Vegan Beef Rengdang seemed like the perfect match. Simmer the vegan steak, watch the shallots melt. A Malaysian curry, add some fresh ginger and lemongrass.
Price: £7.50 per sauce
Vegan Friendly Date Night Restaurants
E3 Vegan
Together, the 30-something couple were searching for hidden vegan gems in London. Quiet, intimate restaurants that were small with quality plates. Candle-light dining, dark interiors. Date night spots where they could feast on vegan small plates. Wandering the streets of Mile End, street lamps glowering. A rush of cars splashing through the rain. Splattered pavements, neon reflections in puddles. The couple with their rainbow umbrella standing out against the inky darkness of night. Purple diamante heels tinged with water, hurrying into the warm. A beige dog waiting, doleful eyes begging to be stroked. Purple nails stroking him. A couple sat in blue and brown seats. At E3 Vegan, a hidden restaurant near Roman Road. Welcomed with a smile, a husband and wife team. A dine in menu with six courses for just £30? It seemed to good to be true. Adding starters, and desserts, a drink each too. A romantic night out, not far from home. A DIY mocktail, blood orange and pomnegranate, laced with soda. A sip of something tart, complementing the juciest, most gorgeous olives she had ever tried. Gordal olives, juicy and plump. Stuffed with orange, a hint of oregano. Spiced lentils on Melba toast, unami-salt. Purple lipstick smeared across lentils, a comical sight.
But the dine in menu? That was a treat for the senses. Him, normally cautious around different foods, and textures. Loving every single dish, especially the White Beans and Pan-Fried Cavalo Nero. Grilled red pepper, add some broccoli-pan-fried. Hard to believe that these incredible dishes were made by one person. Imagining Marc spinning multiple plates on his fingers, Jordan running the restaurant with ease. Both professional, both kind. A quiet intimacy that reflected in the food. Roasted squash with oat labneh, her personal favourite. A squelch of Salsa Verde, sprinkled Pangrattato on top. She tore at the E5 sourdough, dipped it into aioli. Two healthy options, Roast beetroot that was earthy, lentil and horseradish creme a surprising combination. Homemade pickles lurking. Patatas Bravas peeked through, a tangy tomato sauce rich in flavour. Their bellies pooched, but there was room for something more. Craving something sweet, balancing out the savoury. A vegan restaurant, with organic, innovative dishes that had to go in her mini vegan Valentine’s round up. Two desserts. Chocolate Ganache flirting with a raspberry coulis. Pistachio and cocoa nib praline for added crunch. But the homemade lentil-based ice cream was the winner. Opting for salted caramel, hard to believe it was vegan. Stringy, almost like cheese, twirling into their mouths.
Price: £30 per person ( extras for starters and desserts)
Addis Vegan
She remembered the turning point. When she had changed her diet, and lifestyle. Exploring the world, one bite at a time. It wasn’t just her partner who had changed his diet. The moment her senses were awakened, she felt alive. Desperate for hidden culinary gems, that would introduce her to new spices, flavours, and tastes. She remembered her first love. Pakistani cuisine, the bold flavours, the heat on her tongue. Birayani slightly sweet, slightly savoury. Laced with cumin, star anise and drenched in ghee. At home, with her foster mum, she would have British cuisine. Fish and Chips, Toad In The Hole. A proper Roast Dinner, trimmings and all. But she always loved spice. Though her biological family came and went out of her life, her love for food never changed. Even when she returned to the ‘plain food’. When she didn’t know how to cook. When she had no money. But a lightbulb went off in her head a few years ago. Taught herself to cook adventororous and delicious meals. Looked at different cuisines, and saw which ones were vegan friendly. It’s why Ethopian cuisine was one of her favourites. Remembering heading to Greenwich market with her love. Rice and sour injera ladled with a spicy hot sauce. Spicy red lentils and marinated green beans. Lentil samosas, and Atkilt Wot.
Stumbling upon Addis Vegan one day, she couldn’t help but add it to her mini vegan Valentine’s gift guide. Authentic interiors, cozy wooden tables. Friendly staff, and traditional Ethopian music drifting through the air. It was love at first bite. The Veggie Mix Platter, in shades of beige, green and orange. Injera, tangy and sour, woven from teff grain. Two sets of hands, tearing pieces with care. Shiro Wot, one of her favourites. Split peas and chickpeas swirling in a blender. Tinged with garlic, onion and spice. Fasolia, with carrots, sliced into batons. Green beans that were earthy, balanced out with turmeric. But it was the Ydinch Wot that blew their minds. Potatoes chopped, humming under their breaths. A glug of homemade aromatic Berbere vegetable oil. Tomato paste singing sweet nothings to garlic. A tomato salad with a secret dressing bewitched them. Diced red onion and green chillis. Balancing out the sour, and spice, fresh and healthy. A couple sharing culinary luggage, next stop Ethiopia. Tongues caressing Atilkilt Wot. Curried vegetable stew just like what she got in Greenwich market. Cabbage with spiced carrots. Slow-cooked, mushed up with Aterkik Alitcha. Yellow split-pea engulfed in a magic sauce. Fresh green chillis fooling around with ginger. Garlic peeking out. If happiness was a place, this would be it.
Prices
£26 Veggie Mix Platter
£3 Teff Injera
£3.50 Tomato Salad
Sutton And Sons
She went into care when she was 10, taken from her home and all she knew. Saved from a life of neglect and abuse, welcomed into a loving, non-toxic home. Her foster mum wasn’t much of a cook, but at the time, she practically inhaled it. Remembering times where food would be eaten in front of her, coersive control. She wouldn’t get a bite, stomach rumbling in protest. But with her foster mum, she was looked after. Her signature dishes as follows. A microwave chicken curry, they’d dunk a naan, and watch Eastenders together. A roast dinner, made from scratch. Turkey, and homemade roast potatoes. Peas and carrots. A generous glug of gravy. And the third? She remembered it well. The whole reason why she went to Sutton and Sons in the first place. Reminiscing over the Fish and Chip shop they used to go to. A drive in her foster mum’s car. Pick up the bag. Smell the vinegar potent under her nostrils. The chips, chunky, dipped into tartar sauce. The fish, flaky, melting in her mouth with glee. That memory, was something she wanted to bring into present day. A reminder that her and her partner, could recapture that magic, the cruelty-free way. Where they could sample vegan fish, and chips ( and so much more) in Stoke Newington.
Greeted by two friendly faces. William and Aaron, a grin on their faces. Taken to their seats. Roaming around the restaurant, capturing the sunlight bouncing off the table. A rare sunny day, the food just as spectacular. Vegan Fish fashioned from banana blossom. Marinated in seaweed, it tasted like home. Mild in flavour, texture like artichoke. Chips with a dash of salt, a splash of vinegar. Vegan Scampi followed; she eyed them warily. Her favourite dish, how could she love the thing she once hated the most? Mild in flavour dunked in vegan tartar sauce. Creamy, tangy and slightly sweet. A splash of lemon, the perfect pairing. When it came to good new vegan food, Sutton and Sons were a pioneer.A battered sausage, another stand out. Crispy batter, tingling on chapped lips. Dipped in yellow vegan mayo, eyes closed in rapture. Salty gherkins that danced on the side, a side of baked beans too. Another sausage (she couldn’t get enough), Saveloy plunged into curry sauce, mild and sweet. When it came to a mini vegan Valentine’s guide, she couldn’t get enough of Sutton And Sons.
Prices:
£8.50 Classic ‘Prawn’ Cocktail
£12.50 ‘Fish’ And Chips ( Banana Blossom)
£12.50 ‘Scampi’ And Chips
£11.50 Battered Sausage And Chips
£11.50 Saveloy And Chips
£2.50 Curry Sauce
£1.50 Gherkin
Vegan Friendly Staycations
Pear Tree Cottage, The Oddingtons
She was always that kid who dreamed of travelling. Who, the older she got, became more afraid. Who at times, found travelling overwhelming. The stimulation of going through the airport, the excessive planning. The person who was once minimalist and carefree, changed into an obsessive-perfectionist. But now? She was making travelling a priority again. Realizing that she wanted to make more memories with her partner, and travel the world. The only problem? Between them, they were struggling financially. Waiting for the day where they could drop everything and see the world, one plane trip at a time. Yet, they loved staycations too. Remembering a trip to Aldeburgh, and Margate, the fun they had between them. Romantic breaks that were budget friendly, as they danced in the rain. Yet, in this portion of the vegan mini Valentine’s guide, she wanted to manifest luxury. Three incredible staycation spots that just happened to be plant-based friendly. Pear Tree Cottage popped into her mind, a luxury Cotswolds holiday home that made them salivate. Four bedrooms, ensuites you could get lost in. A tiered garden where they could have a vegan al-fresco dining experience. Imagining the rain dripping down the window pane. The sound of the nearby stream. A stroll to the nearest pub, The Fox. 19th Century, with crackling log fires. Come in, grab a non-alcoholic beer. Where to next?
Daylesford Farm, wander through the gardens, ooh-ahhing at the antiques. A trip to the Farm shop, treat themselves to the Plant Power Hamper. Organic vegan basil pesto, imagining smothering it over tri-colour fusilli. Organic sweet potato and black bean chilli, a quick meal for winter nights. Nourishment inside and out, in their imaginations it would leave them craving more. Karibu Vegan Bar and Kitchen at the top of their lists. Reading the menu from home, wishing they could be there in person. A mix of Kenyan, South Asian and South American cuisine. Carribean Quinoa with Jerk Vegetables and Tofu, Bajan style. A side of coleslaw, some cassava too. Dhokia for a small plate, crispy and fluffy savoury cakes dunked in aioli. Chocolate delight for dessert, washed down with a vegan Eggnog. Hazelnut and chocolate domes, drenched in vanilla ice cream. In their imaginary dream, they would slink back to the house, bellies sated. Watching the twilight deepen into inky darkness. Curled up on the sofa, a blanket between them. Watching Ru Paul’s Drag Race. She couldn’t think of a more romantic night in. Exploring mini vegan Valentine’s ideas that were luxurious too.
Price: Short breaks from 1344.74
Beck Hall
Ever since she read Wuthering Heights, she dreamed of dancing across the Yorkshire Dales. A gothic novel about love. passion and revenge, much like many modern love stories. But her’s was not one like that. One that was positive, and non-toxic. Where they supported each other, and encouraged dreams without jealousy. The person who made them smile in the morning. Who they couldn’t wait to wake up to. Still, reading novels inspired by the Yorkshire Dales, made her want to go. Begging her partner to roam its picturesque hills. Wild and windswept, on a gray day. Some of the finest limestone scenery in the UK, from crags and pavements to an underground labyrinth of caves. The village of Malham was no different. Past an ancient clapper bridge. The magical Beck Hall Hotel, Bar & Restaurant, 100% plant-based. England’s first plant-based hotel, it was on her wishlist. A whimsical en-suite room, a winter night by a roaring fire in the Snug. Dog-friendly, breakfast included, and historic, she saw no cons. Built in 1705 as a yeoman’s cottage. Transformed into the vegan paradise it would be today. Food first, adventuring later. What would they eat in the Secret Garden Restaurant? Tamarind treacle-glazed baby back ‘ribs’. made from seitan. Spiced creme freche, seasoned with chives and sesame. Ginger ‘Chicken’ Udon, laced with sugarsnap peas and black and white sesame. Pomnegranate and Rose Mess, a vanilla meringue. A glass of non-alcoholic shiraz, swirl the glass.
Out the hotel, to explore the world around them. Malham Cove, one of the top 10 geological wonders of Britain. Remembering that Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows was filmed here. Lunar like limestone pavements, taking in the panoramic views. Malham Tarn, another location found in a classic book, The Water Babies. She could see why. The highest lake in England, glacial in nature, beautiful at sunset. Onto Janet’s Foss, a short wander away. A crystal-blue pool, see their reflections mirrored back. And who could forget Gordal Scar? An ancient limestone ravine. 100m cliffs, and two stunning waterfalls. They would be hunrgy again after their excursions. But where would they go? Where else but back to The Secret Garden Restaurant for lunch? A quick bite, a Chickpea Chuna and Lemon Mayonnaise baguette, with black olives and basil. A Pumpkin Seed Pesto Chicken Baguette, with rocket and sundried tomatoes. As far as their mini vegan Valentine’s went, a staycation was just what they needed.
Saorsa 1875
She dreamed of the Scottish Highlands, from lochs to mountains, wondering if the Loch Ness Monster actually existed. Picturing the cute highland cows, the couple rubbing their hands together in glee. Shaggy hair, piercing eyes. The cow that was, not them. Sure, she knew Edinburgh pretty well by now. Victoria Street, teeming with thrift stores and boutique shops. A Harry Potter store, see the line cascade down the street. But the Highlands? Another breed. Reminding her of Claudia Winklemen at the Traitors Castle. Voluminous lakes, and rolling grassland. Rugged beauty where ancient landscapes met rich history and culture. Something that Saorsa 1875, Scotland’s first Vegan plant-based hotel knew all too well. Overlooking the picturesque town of Pitlochry. A 19th century building with 11 individually designed en-suite rooms named after wildlife local to the area. Everything in the hotel vegan, even down to the energy that powered them. A hotel with a focus on natural, fresh, and organic ingredients. Gallery images that made them drool. Wishing they could add it to the mini vegan Valentine’s day gift guide for real.
A Saorsa Roast looked particularly inviting. Maple glazed parsnip dancing with carrots. Tenderstem broccoli and a celeraic fondant. Roasted thyme stacked potatoes with a wild cranberry gravy. The soup, another highlight. Velvety Cauliflower Soup topped with almonds. Crispy leek, some chive oil and chilli oil. A hazelnut doughnut filled with caramel hazelnut ganache for something sweet. Chantilly cream offsetting the caramelized hazelnut crunch. Something non-alcoholic to drink, what would they have? Seedlip Spice 94 drenched in organic blackcurrant. A splash of fizzy apple. For him? A Ginger Lass, like his namesake. Three Spirit Levener, with Lime and Ginger. They’d go back to their room. Hands wrapped around a mug of Hoogly Tea, a spiced orange herbal infusion. Chill Out Mint for him, feel the tingle drift down his throat. Drawing back the curtains, hearing the cluck-cluck of the nearby wildlife. Realizing that Blair Castle was nearby, dating back to 1229. Imagining roaming the halls, in the paths of ghosts. The ancestral home of Clan Murray.
Prices: From £190 per night
London Art Experiences To Combine With Food
Twist Museum & Tendril
It would be the musuem of illusions that would pair beautifully with Tendril. Two quirky activities nearby each other, that would make the perfect Valentine’s day treat. The first, Twist Musuem, just off Oxford Street. A place she’d visited when it first opened, planning to go back again. Remembering how the illusions kept her entranced, a kaleidoscope of colour. Blues, and greens, pinks and reds. A colour-flip room that was new, monochromatic meets jagged blue and yellow. A playground for the mind, puzzles that blew her away. Peer into the magnifying glass, uncover Twist’s secrets. Step into the room of many ‘you’s’, paradoxes that would make her question her reality. Rooms created by leading artists including Aristotle Roufanis and duo Carnovsky. A room in neon blue and orange. Where the arrows went up and down. The Science of illusions, that would make her brain think. An insight into how we would interact with the world. The couple learning about the psychology of perception. Their minds hungered for more than just information. Stomachs grumbling, saying goodbye to Twist.
Tendril, a mostly vegan cafe nearby. Putting vegetables in the spotlight, what would they tuck into? Cornish seaweed tempura with wakame salad, a fusion of taste. Crispy hispi cabbage married with salsify, and potato crumbs. Chargrilled pitta dipped into Muhammara, crushed Jersey Royals and a tangy pico de gallo. Butterbean Ragout, with the surprising addition of smacked cucumbers. The cauliflower in that oh so delicious sounding whipped tahini, with perfectly crispy rice. An extensive wine list she saw online, yet she couldn’t drink. A non-alcoholic margherita would tickle her fancy. Salt around the rim, just like the real thing. Sour, tartness coming through on the lips. Watching the hours dance on by, the young couple inevitably pleased with themselves. A two for one addition to their mini vegan Valentine’s day guide that made the perfect night out in London.
Prices:
From £19.50 (Adult) Twist Museum
Tendril Kitchen: Prices from £3-£18 for food
Gods Own Junkyard & Peeld
In the heart of Walthamstow Village, they would stumble upon two hidden gems. A duo that deserved a mention in the mini Vegan Valentine’s day foodie round up. A neon art musuem, cafe and bar vs a healthy Poke bowl small restaurant, an unlikely pairing. A rare sunny day in London, the rain dried up, pink princess heels clip-clopping. An unassuming door, was this the way in? God’s Own Junkyard, filled with neon signs, more than she had ever seen. A few from iconic movies, like the Dark Knight, from the late Chris Bracey’s personal collection. A tribute to his name, see the neon lights flash. Rolling Scones Cafe, a small bar too. A room decked out with a sign that read ‘Wedding Chapel’, the happy couple smooching in the corner. They would spend an hour or so wandering around. A free neon musuem that deserved more credit than it was given. Even religious statues, disco balls, and retro horses adorned the musuem, a feast for the senses. A lazy Sunday, not long before Valentine’s. Knowing it was the perfect thing to do for free in London, with her loved one.
Peeld, was no exception. Somewhere she had ordered from many times, obsessed with their poke bowls. But never having the chance to try it in person, until now. Baby pink, the sign flashing in the distance on a cozy and quaint street. The freshest, most wholesome ingredients. A venue that was vegan friendly, with more than just one option. The Korean Vegan, her go to takeaway order. Loaded with vegan chicken, and plumped tofu. Wakame Seaweed, with kimchi and sushi ginger. A drizzle of Sriracha mayo, add some avocado and extra seaweed. The Spicy Vegan for him, Mango Salsa and Candied Jalapenos. Sticky sushi rice and ginger peanut sauce. To wash down? There was no other option. Slice & Spice, new on the menu. Cold-pressed apple, infused with tart blood orange.Ginger, and lemon, a hint of cinnamon. A smoothie for him, much to her surprise. Not his usual, but he gravitated to the 5 A Day without question. Strawberry and apple, dancing with mango and kiwi. Slurp, slurp, closing time was here. Walking home in the biting chill of night. The wind nipping at their skin without mercy.
Prices:
Free – Gods Own Junkyard
Peeld- Prices range from £2.30-£14.59
Illusionaires & Mallow
They would step into a mind-bending fusion of art and technology. Letting their imaginations run wild, as they danced under the light of the projectors. For at Illusionaries, nothing was as it seemed. Contemporary art like she had never seen before. Beginning their journey into the ethereal with the first exhbition, the Entheon. Created by Alex and Allyson Gray, they would travel into the realms of humanity and spirituality through visionary art. Three immersive rooms, as they contemplated through soundscapes, animation, and colour. Exploring the interconnectedness of the physical and spiritual worlds, they were entranced. The second, Breathscapes, something new. A holistic Valentine’s day date idea that was unlike anything they’d done before. An immersive journey into mindfulness and transformation. In collaboration with renowned breathwork facilitator Meloai, a tranquil environment. Breathe in, breathe out. Guided on a meditative journey, showcasing emotional and spiritual resonance.
After their holistic morning, they would go for a mindful lunch. Mallow, the vegan sister restaurant of Mildred, in the Canary Wharf location. Sustainable, vegan food that was made with love. Mouth salivating as their ravenous eyes poured over the menu. Minimal waste, ingredients sourced from small businesses, including in London. Mujadara cabbage dolma, one of the most beautiful things she had put in her mouth. Beluga lentil spiced rice serenading smoked pepper cream. Soft herbs and rich roast almond slices. Cassava Bravas Verde, with a garlic aioli, sparring with White Bean Confit Garlic Hummus, a hint of citrus. For afters, two spoke to them with glee. Ras Malai Crème Brûlée unlike anything she’d had before. Saffron infused cream cradling poached apricots. A bed of pistachio and rose. The other, a Tart Citron, a lemon tart with a morello cherry coulis. Cherry chantilly and macaroon shell shards. Washed down with a Spicy Pineapple Martini. Everleaf Forest ladled with citrus. Spiced Tepache on the nose.
Prices:
From £23 ( Adults) Illusionaries
What Are Your Plans For Valentine’s Day?
I would love to know what your favourite gift from the mini vegan Valentine’s guide is. Are you into staycations, art and food, restaurants, or vegan alternatives?
Leave a Reply