No, we’re not talking veggie patties or mushroom burgers. We’re talking meat – except it’s not meat.
Whether you’re a curious carnivore or a veteran vegetarian, meat-less meats (or meat alternatives) are growing in popularity and availability. Meat alternatives are intended to replicate the flavor and texture of meat using plant based ingredients.
There are many reasons to try a meat-alternative (if not for the sheer novelty). From a meat pie at the footy to the obligatory Bunnings sausage, Australians consume a fair amount of meat – 110kg per person annually if you were wondering. However, switching out meat for a meat-alternative can be far healthier and environmentally friendly choice. In fact, reducing the amount of red meat you eat is the single best thing you can do to help the planet.
To help you on your journey, we’ve rounded up four of the best locations in Canberra serving up meat sans meat.
1. Sweet Bones Bakery & Café
8/18 Lonsdale St, Braddon ACT 2612
Don’t let the name fool you, Sweet Bones has much more to offer than delicious sweets. The dedicated vegan café has found some creative and downright delicious ways to incorporate meat into their dishes, such as their Big Breakfast which comes with a side of vegan coconut bacon!
2. Au Lac
4/35-39 Woolley St, Dickson ACT 2602
Shop G90A Corinna Street, Phillip, ACT, 2606
Similar to Sweet Bones, Au Lac is a vegan / vegetarian dream come true. A quick glance of the menu might surprise you given the number of meat options they seem to have on offer. But all the vegan imitation “meat” dishes are actually made from soybean protein! Enjoy soy chicken satay sticks, soy beef rendang or roast duck in plum sauce – all meatless!
3. Grill’d
Various locations: Canberra Centre, Belconnen, Woden and Manuka.
Despite a rocky first try at a meatless pattie (I tried it and couldn’t decide whether I hated the texture or the taste more) Grill’d has introduced a NEW meatless pattie, the Beyond Burger. Containing no gluten, soy or GMOs, the Beyond Burger is a strong addition to their dependably delicious menu.
4. The Cruelty Free Shop
3/24 Mort St, Braddon ACT 2612
For those who would prefer to try the home-cooking route, the Cruelty Free Shop, located in Braddon stocks a wide range of meat alternatives including vegami (vegan salami), vegan sausages and setian chicken.
