Eating vegan and vegetarian in Spain doesn’t have to be as hard as it’s made out to be. Sure, the famous Spanish ham (also known as Iberico ham or Serrano ham) is a delicacy and the calamari sandwiches are a hit, but you’re sure to find something traditional that fits your restrictions.
1. Pan con Tomate
Known also as ’pan tumaca’ informally or ‘pa amb tomàquet’ in the Catalan language, this is probably the cheapest and most satisfying breakfast when you’re not in the mood for a sweet pastry. It’s just toasted bread with shredded tomato over it.
2. Pisto Manchego
⭐ Our top pick for pisto manchego is Casa Dani at Calle de Ayala, 28
Don’t let the Manchego throw you, this dish isn’t cheese. This deliciously simple dish hails from Castilla La-Mancha, the community south of Madrid — where it gets its name.
3. Patatas Bravas
⭐ Our top pick for patatas bravas is Casa Macareno at Calle de San Vicente Ferrer, 44.
These spicy potatoes are the best bar food. This is probably the spiciest thing you’ll find on a Spanish menu, and something about Spanish potatoes hits different than an American french fry.
For vegetarians: order it with the alioli.
4. Gazpacho and Salmorejo
Yes, the famous cold soups from the country’s southern region, Andalucia, are also vegan-friendly and surprisingly refreshing in the summertime, or really, whenever. It’s so good.
The best way to eat it is by shooting it as quickly as a shot.
5. Tortilla de Patatas
⭐ Our top pick for tortilla de patatas is Taberna el Buo at Calle de Gravina, 4 or La Buha at Plaza de la Cebada, 10.
Vegetarians, this one’s for you. Spain’s famous omelet is made with onions, potatoes and eggs — lots of them! It’s sometimes served as a tapa or as a stand-alone meal.
It’s not necessarily a breakfast food nor is it something you eat for dinner. It’s an all-day dish because the Spanish love their eggs at any time of the day.
Finally, if you’re looking for something a little more substantial at a traditional Spanish restaurant, consider ordering the grilled veggies (verdura a la plancha). It’s a platter of grilled onions, peppers, asparagus, tomatoes, mushrooms, zucchini and eggplant, meant for sharing but it’s enough to keep any vegan or vegetarian full.
If you still feel a bit overwhelmed with options, don’t worry, just contact us and we’ll let you join one of our Vegan / Vegetarian Spanish Tapas Tours.
Enjoy your meal and let us know your favorite dish 🙂