A guide to plant based dining on the Mornington Peninsula
In honour of World Vegan Month this November, we’re shining some light on the treasure trove of vegan-friendly eateries on the Mornington Peninsula. The plant-based movement is booming, and for good reason. Not only does a plant-based lifestyle support better health, it also promotes a more eco-conscious, mindful way of living. Fortunately for the Peninsula’s vegan community (and the vegan-curious), there's no shortage of local standouts offering plant-based food, drinks and goodies to satisfy every craving.
Wombat Café combines mouth-watering plant-based cuisine with an eco-conscious ethos. Their rotating, fully-vegan menu showcases locally sourced ingredients making up delicious plant-based plates, smoothies and treats that nourish both body and soul. The Avo Smash is a standout, served on toasted sourdough with Vegan Dairy cashew feta, radish, fresh mint and a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds and pepitas – the perfect balance of flavours and textures. For something warm and savory, their Scrambled Tofu with roasted balsamic tomatoes, rocket and chives will do more than hit the spot. And of course, no culinary experience is complete without a sweet treat so on your way out, grab a Wombat Smoothie, chocolate banana bread or Snickers slice for later.
Another local favourite that is 100% vegan is Hunter Cafe. If you’re feeling like a caffeine hit with a twist, the snickers latte is what you need. Peanut butter, caramel and chocolate all come together beautifully with the alternative mylk of your choice for the most delightful burst of flavour to start your morning right. Freshly-squeezed juices, smoothies, wraps, rolls and sweet slices also feature on the menu, but the gluten-free fudge brownie in particular is not to be overlooked. Run, don’t walk (yes, it’s that good).
At Store Fifteen, eating simple, wholesome and healthy food is a way of life. This cute hole-in-the-wall café has an abundance of plant-based options on the menu, from acai bowls and fruit toast loaded with banana and other bits of goodness, to homemade porridge, wraps and salads. The new summer menu has just been launched, featuring a dragon fruit smoothie bowl, a new ‘Raspberry Replenish’ smoothie and a vegan wellness bowl. Can’t decide? There’s always their renowned brunch board, featuring a breakfast jar, a ‘toast’ item and a shot of their green smoothie. And yes, they make their own cashew cream on-site.
Soul Press, boasts a menu full of immunity and energy boosting juices, satisfying smoothies (we can confirm that pineapple and coconut ice cream are indeed a match made in heaven), nourishing bowls and raw sweet treats, the majority of which are plant-based. With two locations in Mount Eliza and Rye, there’s no excuse to not give their Pina Colada smoothie or vegan Nachos Bowl a try next time you find yourself in the area. Living up to the name, Green Bowl in Mount Martha promises just that – hearty and healthy Middle Eastern and Mediterranean-inspired bowls filled with grains, legumes, vegetables and bursts of flavour. There’s a new menu each week, using only the freshest seasonal produce, meaning you have a guilt-free reason to keep going back for seconds and thirds (for research purposes, of course).
For nutritious grab and go options, look no further than A Good Little Thing. All sweet treats (and most of the savoury offerings) at this cute and cosy takeaway cafe are vegan. Surprise yourself with the popular BBQ jackfruit toastie, served on light rye sourdough with a smoked hemp mozarella and pineapple. The perfect balance of smokey and bittersweet with a hint of tangy goodness. Bring a picnic blanket, order a treat and a delicious coffee from the friendly team behind the counter, and perch up on the grass in the sun.
Corner Counter is another small but mighty gem with a wide variety of delectable vegan goodies. Soups, sweet treats, salads, sandwiches; you name it, they’ve got it. And there’s no lack of legumes, grains, herbs, toasted toppings and tasty dressings to bring it all together. The team at Corner Counter prepare their food fresh on the day, using local and seasonal produce.
For something that is guaranteed to warm the heart and soul, you can find a delicious bowl of vegan Pho and other plant-based Vietnamese dishes at Banoi Vietnamese Kitchen, Le Feu and Pho @ Flinders. If Italian is more your style, you’ll be delighted to know that Assagini in Mornington offer a dedicated plant-based menu, featuring favourites like bruschetta, caprese salad, risotto, gnocchi and panna cotta – all using vegan cheese and cream. And finally, Steam in Rye also offer a dedicated vegetarian or vegan banquet menu, featuring pan-Asian staples like curries, fried rice, dumplings and noodles. A bit of everything? Yes, please!
From homey takeaway joints and vibrant restaurants to vegan-dedicated cafes, Mornington Peninsula’s vegan dining scene has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re a devoted vegan or simply a foodie with a love for fresh, healthy and veg-filled food, there’s never been a better time to explore the plant-based eateries in your own backyard. Each café and restaurant reflects a commitment to quality, flavour, and sustainable choices that make eating well feel even more fulfilling.
Happy World Vegan Month to all!