The Caribbean’s Growing Popularity as a Plant-Based Dining Destination
It’s exciting to see the Caribbean becoming a vibrant destination for vegan dining, with more options than ever before for those embracing plant-based living. The islands, renowned for their sun-soaked beaches, rich history, and breathtaking scenery, are now gaining recognition for their culinary diversity—especially for those of us committed to a plant-based lifestyle.
A Diverse Culinary Landscape
The Caribbean is often misunderstood as a monolithic region with uniform cuisine. However, each island boasts its own unique culinary traditions. As Barbadian food scientist Taymer Mason aptly put it, “Eating Jamaican food—while it is Caribbean—for us in Barbados is like eating food from a totally different country.” This diversity is part of what makes the Caribbean so special, especially for those seeking plant-based options.
Across the islands, plant-based staples such as plantains, fresh fruits, rice, beans, legumes, and bold spices form the backbone of many dishes. For example, while plantains are a common ingredient throughout the region, their preparation varies: in Puerto Rico, they might be mashed into mofongo, while in Barbados, they’re often fried and served alongside coucou.
Yet, despite the prevalence of meat and seafood in traditional Caribbean dishes, the plant-based food scene is growing rapidly.
The Rise of Veganism in the Caribbean
It’s no secret that the Caribbean’s plant-based scene is on the rise. In Saint Lucia alone, there are more than 30 vegan-friendly eateries—a remarkable number considering the island’s small size. Jamaica boasts over 70, and the Cayman Islands have nearly 40. This growth isn’t just a trend; it’s a reflection of a deeper shift in consciousness. As people become increasingly aware of the environmental and health benefits of a plant-based diet, more are making the switch.
Sian Weinzweig, co-founder of Grand Cayman’s The Edgy Vedge, notes that the impact of climate change is especially hard to ignore in the Caribbean. Hurricanes, which are becoming more severe due to warming waters, are a stark reminder of the urgent need to adopt sustainable practices, including plant-based eating.
Weinzweig is leading by example, not only by serving delicious vegan food but also by educating locals and tourists alike. Her mission is to encourage people to step out of their culinary comfort zones and explore the world of plant-based cuisine. And it’s working—many diners are surprised to learn that the flavorful dishes they’re enjoying are entirely plant-based.
Top Plant-Based Dining Destinations in the Caribbean
For those of us dedicated to promoting a plant-based lifestyle, the Caribbean offers a growing number of dining options that are both delicious and diverse. Here are eight vegan-friendly restaurants across the islands that are sure to delight:
1. The Edgy Vedge (Grand Cayman) – Famous for its cauliflower wings, The Edgy Vedge offers a variety of plant-based delights, from black bean soup to vegan crab cakes.
2. The Green Zen (Saint Lucia) – This fully plant-based restaurant in Rodney Bay serves hearty dishes like stuffed mushrooms and noodle bowls, as well as delectable desserts.
3. The Treehouse (Saint Lucia) – Located in the luxury Anse Chastanet resort, The Treehouse features an all-vegan menu called Emeralds, with dishes like Ital Coconut Pot Stew.
4. Antojitos Veganos (Puerto Rico) – In Bayamon, you can enjoy everything from plant-based pancakes to portobello steak at this vegan haven.
5. 100% HP (Puerto Rico) – This San Juan spot offers a variety of vegan options, including traditional Puerto Rican dishes reimagined with plant-based ingredients.
6. A Vegan’s Utopia (Jamaica) – Located in Montego Bay, this restaurant lives up to its name, serving everything from fried oyster mushroom chicken to refreshing fruit smoothies.
7. Vegan Cottage (Barbados) – Renowned for its authentic Caribbean flavors, Vegan Cottage in Bridgetown offers fresh, delicious plant-based meals made just for you.
8. Eduardo’s Beach Shack (Aruba) – While not entirely vegan, Eduardo’s Beach Shack on Palm Beach offers plenty of plant-based options, like vegan assorted tacos and pad Thai noodles.
A New Era for Caribbean Cuisine
The Caribbean is on the cusp of a plant-based revolution. With more vegan-friendly options than ever before, the islands are proving that a commitment to sustainability and health can coexist with a love for delicious, culturally rich food. There’s never been a better time to explore the Caribbean’s evolving culinary landscape. So pack your bags, and prepare to savor the flavors of the islands—plant-based style.