The vegan food scene has undergone a remarkable transformation since the days of jacket potatoes with beans (no butter) and mushroom risotto. Today, a vibrant range of vegan delights can be found on the high street. Among these, vegan kebabs stand out as a true indulgence, with What the Pitta offering some of the most flavourful and satisfying options around.

Creators of the original Vegan Döner Kebab, What the Pitta began its journey with a food truck in Shoreditch. The brand now boasts three restaurants in London, as well as locations in Manchester and Brighton. They’ve also earned notable accolades, including the title of Best Vegan Caterer at the Vegfest Awards in 2018 and Best London Takeaway at the Kebab Awards in 2020.

What’s in a vegan döner kebab?

What the Pitta

What sets the signature vegan döner apart is its GMO-free, soy-based pieces marinated in a blend of spices, then grilled for a smoky and authentic flavour. This mouth-watering concoction is wrapped in freshly baked bread and topped with a medley of mixed salad, hummus, tzatziki, and jalapeño peppers. These meat-free kebabs are so rich and satisfying that they prove you don’t need to eat meat to enjoy a fulfilling meal.

For those avoiding bread, the Doner & Fries option is a perfect choice. Here, succulent kebab pieces are piled high on a plate, accompanied by crispy chips, fresh salad, and a fantastic selection of sauces. During a visit to the Brighton restaurant, this was the meal of choice, and it did not disappoint—leaving no one hungry!

What else is on the menu?

For those not keen on a vegan döner, there are other delightful options. Choose a wrap filled with popular mock-meat alternatives like This Isn’t Chicken or the ever-reliable falafel. Alternatively, the Giro, served in naan bread instead of a wrap, offers a unique twist.

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The menu also features a variety of tempting side dishes, such as paprika fries, flatbreads, onion rings, and a delicious popcorn chick’n. It’s not just savoury offerings, either. Sweet treats like baklava and cheesecake are also available to round off your meal on a sweet note.

Popular with vegans and non-vegans alike

While some passers-by might be puzzled, exclaiming “What the f*ck is a Vegan Döner?!” What the Pitta has rapidly become a cult favourite, with notable fans including UK grime artist JME. Vegan foods have gained significant popularity in recent years, not only among vegans but also non-vegans. Many have discovered that plant-based meals are not only tasty but also healthier and more environmentally friendly.

“We’ve found that many of our customers are meat reducers rather than strict vegans,” says a representative from What the Pitta. “It’s fantastic to see more and more people becoming mindful of where their food comes from.”

A healthy feast

What the Pitta

Although a kebab might not traditionally be seen as the healthiest option, vegan kebabs offer a much healthier alternative. They are high in fibre, low in fat, and cholesterol-free, unlike many meat-based dishes. This means you can enjoy as many vegan kebabs as you like, without the guilt or worry about heart health.

A must-visit vegan establishment

Since its founding in 2016, What the Pitta has established itself as a must-visit destination for both vegans and non-vegans alike. With a menu full of high-fibre, low-fat options, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re already vegan or simply curious about plant-based cuisine, this tasty fast-food joint should be at the top of your list.

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