A flat lay of Eton Mess at The Dining Room, Ely. The grey plate with beige rim is on a grey grain grey wood table

18 BEST VEGETARIAN-FRIENDLY PLACES TO EAT IN ELY, CAMBRIDGESHIRE

7th October 2025

Last Updated on 20th October 2025 by Bejal

In This Article

As one half of us is vegetarian, we were thrilled to discover Ely in Cambridgeshire is a hidden gem for vegetarian food lovers, offering everything from charming tea rooms and cake spots to cosy coffee shops, perfect for a quiet break. Much like other UK cities, like Bath that have a great vegetarian-friendly vibe, in Ely you’ll find indulgent cheese shops and grazing companies creating artisan platters, alongside fine dining restaurants and international cuisine that cater beautifully to vegetarian-friendly, and in a lot of cases plant based diets. Whether you’re after a leisurely afternoon tea, a light grazing lunch or a sophisticated evening meal, Ely has quite the diverse spread of options to explore. Read on for details on all the vegetarian-friendly places to eat in Ely during our two day stay in the city.

Pin & Save

Pushed for time to read this now? No problem, Pin and save and read at your leisure later.

Vegetarian food in Ely Pinterest Pin with 4 images overlaid with text. Text reads, eat the best vegetarian food in Ely England. A food and guide for all budgets

Is Ely Vegetarian-Friendly?

Yes, Ely is vegetarian-friendly. Most of the places we ate were not dedicated vegetarian eateries but had a very decent selection of food for vegetarians as well as some plant based options for vegans.

The Prosper, is the only plant based cafe in Ely but all of the places we have featured in this guide serve a great selection of vegetarian dishes.

What Food is Ely Known For?

The city of Ely is located in the Cambridgeshire Fens and is well known for it’s link to eels, that where once abundant in the fens and actually inspired its name. However, funnily enough, the city is not known for a special dish but instead, has large markets that sell locally grown products, with all the arable farming land surrounding Ely. We also saw a lot of street food as well as artisan products including bread, coffee, cheese and wines. When it comes to eateries, you’ll see a great range of international cuisine too in Ely from Indian, Japanese, Mediterranean, Turkish, South American right through to traditional British fare.

Vegetarian-Friendly Cafes & Coffee Spots in Ely

Here is our round up of vegetarian-friendly spots in Ely to eat and drink. From coffee spots to fine dining, we have you covered.

Please refer to this Google Map below for locations of each of the places in this article, Click on the menu for all the places we recommend in our Ely guide.

The Rig By Silver Oak Coffee

An independent roastery based in Cambridgeshire selling artisan coffee which has been made from ethically sourced coffee beans. Their coffee supplier, Mercanta have a defined sustainability policy aligning with the UN, and ensures their workers are paid fairly and allow promotion of sustainable farming and reducing poverty, ensuring gender equality and maintaining a viable model.

We grabbed a coffee to go from their mobile unit (aka the Rig) on Ely Market Place, which has some covered seating. We saw a queue there and figured they had to do some great coffee if the lines were so long, plus we had a local tip off that the coffees were very popular and great quality.

Silver Oak Coffee Rig in Market Place, Ely. The Rig is black and white and has tables and seating around it with people chatting and drinking their coffee. One of the vegetarian-friendly places to eat in Ely with their vegan milk options

Be-lavie Recommendations: We had the Americano and Chai Latte to go and both were just what we needed for a mid morning pick me up plus the service is efficient and very friendly.

The Details

Location: Market Place, Ely CB7 4LS.
Find it Here: Map Location.
Details: Website & Menu.
Opening Hours: Mon-Sun: 07:00 – 16:30.
Reservations: Not Applicable.
Price Range: ££

Tamarin Bay Coffee House

Tamarin Bay Coffeehouse is a beautifully decorated cafe, which is incidentally also dog friendly, is located in the centre of Fore Hill and was perfect for mid afternoon coffee and cake to share.

Top lay of chai latte, American coffee and a Victoria Sandwich cake at Tamarin Bay, Ely. They are on a brown grain wooden table

Interiors of Tamarin Bay Coffee House in Ely. There is a floral teal , pink and yellow wallpaper on the walls with two brown leather comfy seats with a small table between each. A large wall clock hangs on the wallpaper as well as a big window style white mirror.

They serve homemade cakes, breakfast, brunch and lunch items with a relaxed vibe and the most beautiful interiors. Note the brick work counter, window seats as well as the comfy brown leather chairs with a backdrop of floral, almost Morris like print wallpaper. The colours of the wallpaper also reminded us of Tamarin Bay in the Maldives with its lush exotic colours and foliage.

The staff are really friendly and service is most definitely with a smile and it’s easy to see why they have so many loyal regulars.

Exterior of Tamarin Bay Coffee House, Ely. The shop is a double-fronted property an dis a dark teal-grey with a shop sign hanging on the outside

Side view of a chai latte, black coffee and slice of Victoria Sandwich Cake on a brown table with the coffee counter and a teal wall in the background at Tamarin Bay Coffee House, Ely

Be-lavie Recommendations: We really enjoyed the creamy chai latte, an Americano and a lovely slice of moist Victoria sponge cake.

The Details

Location: 14 Fore Hill, ELY CB7 4AF.
Find it Here: Map Location.
Details Find out More: Instagram.
Opening Hours: Thurs-Fri: 09:00 – 15:00, Sat 09:00-16:00, Sun 10:00-14:00.
Reservations: Not Applicable.
Reviews: Read what other customers are saying.
Price Range: ££

Tom’s Cakes

Tom Dolby, baker extraordinaire has multiple locations in Cambridgeshire including St Ives, Somersham as well as Ely. What we loved about Tom’s Cakes is that they bake every single biscuit and cake by hand themselves in small batches in their Cambridgeshire based bakery. No mixes used here, just great local ingredients and recipes made from scratch. For example they use free range eggs from local farms, flour that’s milled in Essex, vegetables form the Fens, local fruit from surrounding farms and lavender from neighbouring county, Norfolk.

At Tom’s cakes, they have accountability for their ingredients and a great sustainable forward attitude.

Exterior of Tom's Cafe, Ely. There are pink and white flowers to the right and Tom's cafe grey exterior to the left with red chairs and small bistro tables outside the shop front

Tea being poured from a red teapot into a grey cup with saucer on a light blue table at Tom's Cafe in Ely

Top lay image of a red teapot, Victoria Sandwich slice, tea in a grey cup and a hot chocolate in a gre cup. The items are on a blue table top with a small container of milk at Tom's Cafe in Ely

Of course Tom’s Cakes is known for it’s Orange & Almond, Apple & Cinnamon, Hummingbird, Salted Caramel Brownie and in line with seasonal ingredients, see seasonal additions such as summer Lavender Cake or an autumn Bramley Apple and Cinnamon Cake. not forgetting biscuits and some savoury options.

Here they celebrate great quality British baking as well as offering teas, coffees and other drinks selections. We were drawn in as we saw a huge line outside and figured it must be good, so we went back the following day to try some cake. We certainly get the hype now! We’d say visit during the week as it’s a lot quieter and easier to get a seat indoors.

Just to note, Tom’s Cakes has a great selection of vegan cakes too!

Tom's Cafe counter in Ely with cakes and biscuits laid out inside the covered area at Tom's Cafe in Ely. There are pumpkins on top of teh counter as it was autumn during our visit

Side view image of a red teapot, Victoria Sandwich slice, tea in a grey cup and a hot chocolate in a gre cup. The items are on a blue table top with a small container of milk at Tom's Cafe in Ely

Be-lavie Recommendations: We opted for a pot of tea and a hot chocolate for this mid morning refuel stop. We always go simple with the food when we’re visiting places for the first time so it was a slice of Victoria sponge to share however we need not have worried as it was perfect. We also had our eye on the hummingbird cake and the walnut and coffee cake – an excuse to head back we think!

The Details

Location: 31 High St, ELY CB7 4LQ.
Find it Here: Map Location.
Details: Website & Menu.
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 08:30-17:00. Sun 10:00-17:00.
Reservations: Do not take reservations.
Reviews: Read what other customers are saying.
Price Range: ££

Gail’s Bakery

Located on High Street in Ely, Gail’s is a modern bakery where the seasons tend to guide their menu. They are big on sustainability with lots of books in store and allow nature and grains of the land to guide their menu inclusions.

We went along for a quick breakfast one morning with the smell of fresh bakes leading the way.

Their bakes counter is pretty impressive as is their bread selection. Additionally there are savoury items to compliment their brunch menu.

Indoor seating at Gail's bakery in Ely. The walls are a pale green with small plants in pots along the back wall. The tables area. light wood with green chairs tucked under the three tables

Bakes Counter at Gail's Bakery, Ely. A covered counter with lots of different bakery products inside. The menu is on the wall behind the counter.

Top lay of brunch at Gail's Bakery, Ely. Avocado topped sourdough with chilli sauce, cheese croissant, cappuccino and a black coffee on a pale green table top.

Inside the bakery is simple in decor with the signature light peach colour and co-ordinating views but the real star of the seating show is the pretty garden area towards the rear, which has the most incredible views of Ely cathedral. It’s a busy spot so going early is good so you can have a few moments peace and quite as you sip your first morning coffee of the day!

Although there are quite a few branches of Gail’s around Southern England, this one did feel a little like an independent and had wonderful service.

Garden with brunch at Gail's Bakery, Ely. There is avocado bread and a croissant with a cappuccino and black coffee on the light green top table. The background has the tower of Ely Cathedral and the walled garden.

Ely cathedral views from Gail's Bakery garden. Bejal is walking down garden with a cup of coffee in had and the cathedral tower is behind her with foliage in the garden and lavender plants

Be-lavie Recommendations: The cappuccino and American’s are very good and served in a medium mug. We opted for the cheese croissant and smashed seasoned avocado on toasted sourdough with chilli jam on the side.

The Details

Location: 28 High St, ELY CB7 4LA.
Find it Here: Website & Menu.
Details: Find out More.
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 07:30-17:30, Sat 07:00-18:00, Sun 07:30-18:00.
Reservations: No Applicable.
Price Range: ££

Peacocks Tea Rooms

With a location on the Ely waterside, Peacocks Tearoom has been one of the UK’s Top Tearoom in 2007 by the Tea Guild and carries with it a string of awards including 2016 TripAdvisor Hall of Fame, following six consecutive annual Awards of Excellence and the 2013 The Times’ Top five places to take tea. After visiting it is completely apparent why.

Exterior of Peacocks Tearooms, Ely. The window with a white frame is surrounded by green foliage and there are light green bistro tables outside with red chairs in the courtyard

Peacocks stocks over fifty varieties of teas in it’s family run tearoom which provides nothing less than a friendly, welcoming and relaxing atmosphere. From the minute you enter right through to leaving, the experience here is simply exemplary.

The decor is reminiscent of the old English cottage theme, think cute fenced and charming buildings with sash windows, a cute courtyard filled with flowers and shrubbery, with climbing vines, quaint Chine tea cups, tea pots, cake stands, and floral furnishings. Everything just speaks cosy and the food is no exception.

Top lay of the menu at Peacocks Tearoom in Ely. There is a sugar cube bowl and teapot on the table with small flowers.

Exterior of Peacocks Tearoom, Ely. A long square paned window with white bistro table and chairs outside with foliage all around

green coloured soup with watercress and mint adn drizzled cream on top. A plate above has a cheese and small butter packs on it. This is at Peacocks Tearooms, Ely

Teacups hanging on a side board with jams and conserves at Peacocks Tearooms, Ely. There are mugs and tea cups hanging on hooks on a brown wooden sideboard which also has teas and conserves on its shelves

If you want a traditional afternoon tea in Ely, this is the place. They do different variations right from a cream tea for one to a full on three tiered traditional tea and cater for vegetarians and vegans.

At peacocks they also have wonderful breakfast, brunch, lunch and savoury options throughout the day such as full English (veggie one too), sandwiches, quiches, soups, salads and more.

We’d say Peacocks Tearooms is a must when visiting Ely! If you’re looking to stay over then they offer two lovely traditionally decorated options in the form of Fine Bed & Breakfast. Choose form The Brewery Suite and the Cottage Suite.

Teas in white jars at Peacocks Tearooms, Ely. The jars are arranged in order on a shelving unit with 3 white jars per section. There is also a table with brown dark wood chairs in front

A copper kettle on a range at Peacocks Tearooms in Ely. There is also a light blue coffee pot in the background

The Specials board on the back of the door at Peacocks Tearooms in Ely

A Teapot with small floral pink design and a sugar bowl with blue patterns at Peacocks Tearooms in Ely

Be-lavie Recommendations: If you’re heading for afternoon tea then you’ll be in for a treat but if like us you’re here for lunch then in the cooler weather, a soup of the day is perfect. On our visit the soup was pea, apple and mint and came with a cheese scone and butter. So comforting and packed full of flavour, perfect to set you up for some sight seeing in Ely.

The Details

Location: 65 Waterside, ELY CB7 4AU.
Find it Here: Map Location.
Details: Website & Menu.
Opening Hours: Tues-Thurs 09:00-18:30, Fri-Sat 09:00-15:00, Sun-Mon Closed.
Reservations: Not taken.
Reviews: Read what other customers are saying about the Tearoom and Fine B&B.
Price Range: ££

Check Rates & Book Fine B&B Here

Prosper Ely

Ely’s sole vegan and award winning cafe, Prosper is an independent, plant based, well being coffee shop in the heart of Ely run by Phil and Rachael.

From hearty lunches to light snacks and indulgent cakes, Prosper takes care of your foodie needs using only the best plant based ingredients in every dish and drink. The kitchen is open from 09:30-14:00 daily for food but drinks are available outside of this time.

The focus here is very much on wellness as they also offer space hire for events. The menu includes, salads, baked potatoes, a daily hot bowl, porridge, a selection of toast and things on toast as well as sandwiches and bagels. They also do wonderful coffee we’ve heard that’s ethically sourced just like at Bake Shop (which we’ll mention further on in the article).

Unfortunately we completely forgot about visiting Prosper even though it was on our Google Maps so this is all the more reason to head to Ely again!

Vegan roll with a small fork on a duck egg blue plate on a dark grey background and surface at Prosper Cafe Ely — Image Courtesy: Prosper Cafe, Ely

Be-lavie Recommendations: We don’t usually suggest things we havn’t tried ourselves but after having a scan of the menu for next time we’re in Ely and think we’d love the ethically sourced coffee and possibly the ‘Beaniful’ salad with mixed leaves, tomato, cucumber, onion, peppers, mixed beans, hummus and seeds. If you head to Prosper we’d love to know what you had so we can add it to our list for our visit.

The Details

Location: 2-3 Buttermarket, ELY CB7 4NY.
Find it Here: Map Location.
Details: Website & Menu.
Opening Hours: Weds-Sun 09:30-16:30, Mon-Tues closed.
Reviews: Read what other customers are saying.
Price Range: ££

The Bake Shop General Store

The Bake Shop General Store is a very cool store, located right down the street from our hotel, the Poet’s House, that stocks Grain Culture bread, some wonderful fresh pastries and savouries, available every morning and excellent coffee from The Brew Project.

There is a small seating area amongst many larder products which have been carefully sourced and hand selected as well as hand cut farmhouse cheeses from Neal’s Yard Dairy, small batch beers and natural wines to take home with you.

Interiors of the Bake Shop General Store in Ely. There is seating to teh left with wooden chairs and tables and right in front and to the left there are canned, packaged and other foods stacked on floor to ceiling shelving

Cinnamon bun, Cardamom bun and cappuccino at at Bake Shop General Store in Ely. They are in a silver tray and in teh background there are packets of food of theshelves

Exterior of the at Bake Shop General Store in Ely. It has a black double-face outside with Bake Shop General Store written in white letters with a yellow shadow.

If you’re anything like us you’ll end up wanting to take home most of the store. The staff are really friendly and helpful and they also serve six types of wines by the glass each day of the week.

Quirky and fun with all the good stuff, it feels ever so cool here and has to be one of my all time independents of all time, so much so that we’ve been talking about it ever since we returned from Ely!

We came for a quick breakfast and ended up loving this bake shop so much and wanted to come back for some wine but we couldn’t fit it in so will have to return to Ely for sure!

The Bake Shop sign with pink letters and a red background at Bake Shop General Store in Ely. The shelves surrounding hold cups and other cafe wares.

Cappuccino and cardamom bun at The Bake Shop General Store in Ely. The coffee has floral art on it in a white cop and the cardamom bun has a bite taken out of it

Be-lavie Recommendations: For a, express breakfast we had a cappuccino with oat milk, drip coffee, cinnamon rolls and the heavenly Swedish Kanelbullor which are cinnamon buns made with a sweet cardamom dough. The Kanelbullor are exceptional and trust us, you’ll want to come back for more!!

The Details

Location: 30 St Mary’s St, ELY CB7 4ES.
Find it Here: Map Location.
Details: Website & Menu.
Opening Hours: Mon-Thurs 08:00-18:00, Fri-Sat 08:00-20:00, Sun 09:00-15:00.
Reservations: Not Applicable.
Reviews: Read what other customers are saying.
Price: ££

Places to Have a Vegetarian-Friendly Lunch in Ely

Ely Grazing Company

We absolutely loved this concept, after all, who doesn’t enjoy grazing on food?! This slow style of eating makes you appreciate each ingredient and at Ely Grazing Company, you can buy hot and cold drinks, to have in the small inside space or outside on the terrace. In addition they do a variety of grazing boxes which are fresh and locally sourced and can be eaten to take away or on site. Think afternoon tea box, a cheese and crackers box, a grazing lunch box, a pancake box or even a champagne graze gift box.

They also serve breakfast and charcuterie boards with a great range of vegetarian and vegan options.

The cafe in Buttermarket gets very busy so we’d recommend going early for lunch to be able to eat or grab a grazing box for a picnic or al fresco lunch.

Sandwich board with menu outside Ely Grazing Company. the board is black and with menu items and specials written in pink, yellow, blue and green

A flat lay of the mini 3 cheese board with slices of bread, grapes, three cheeses, gherkins chutney and crackers on a brown wooden board. There are pink flowers in a small vase on the side.

Friends message on wooden counted at Ely Grazing Company. There is a small vase with pink flowers in it and the message is on a strip of white paper and reads, 'True friends are always together in spirit' L.M Montgomery

orange Soup with Croutons in a white soup bowl and slices of bread at Ely Grazing Company. There is a small vase of pink flowers on the small chopping board.

Be-lavie Recommendations: The soup of the day, which was squash, carrots and coriander with bread during our visit or how about the cheese board which comes with a sweet, savoury and soft cheese with grapes, crackers and more.

The Details

Location: 16-18 Broad St, ELY CB7 4AH.
Find it Here: Map Location.
Details: Website & Menu.
Opening Hours: Mon-Sun 09:00-16:00.
Reservations: Not Applicable.
Reviews: Read what other customers are saying.
Price Range: ££

Victoria’s Cheese

Calling all cheese lovers, you will be in literal cheese heaven here! Truly the most beautiful independent cheese store we have ever been to featuring stunning vaulted ceilings and beautiful presentation of a large variety of cheeses, preserves, crackers, wines and more.

It was pleasure to meet and be served by Victoria Dunthorne, the owner and hear her passion for cheese. She has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to cheese and is really helpful in selecting what you’re looking for based on your likes and dislikes.

Vaulted ceilings and tables at Victoria's Cheese, Ely. There is a table with menus and the shop counter on the opposite side with lights showcasing the vaulted ceiling

Packaged chutneys, crackers adn other offerings at Victoria's Cheese, Ely. The entrance is a semi-circular archway and there are orange bistro tables and chairs outside

2 red wines doing a cheers at Victoria's Cheese, Ely. There is a pink flower in a vase in the background

We popped in for a late afternoon cheese board and glass of wine after walking past earlier in the day and mentally bookmarking when we fancied something cheesy!

You can purchase cheeses from the counter to take away or choose a number of cheese and charcuterie boards based on size, with a glass or bottle of wine. Vegetarians can stick to just cheese options or craft your own board with Victoria’s help.

Top lay of red wine and menu at Victoria's Cheese, Ely. They are on a light wood grained table

Side view of 2 glasses of red wine and menu at Victoria's Cheese, Ely

We opted for the Cheeses of the Day selection with a Wine Special to share. We had the Sharpham Rustic (a semi hard fresh cheese from Devon), Smoked Brie (traditional oak smoked Brie) and Shropshire Blue (creamy, tangy and blue). These came on a board with crackers, pumpernickel bread, dried apricots, celery and gherkins. The Wine Special was Hawkers Hill Pinot Noir. Light fruity red from Norfolk and of course we upgraded that to a large glass each!!

Packaged chutneys, crackers and other offerings at Victoria's Cheese, Ely. The shelving units are wooden brown with a host of dry foods that can be taken away to accompany the cheeses

Red wine and cheese platter top lay at Victoria's Cheese, Ely. There are three cheeses on the board with celery, crackers, rye bread, gherkins, chutney and red wine at the side

Red wine and cheese platter side view at Victoria's Cheese, Ely. There are three cheeses on the board with celery, crackers, rye bread, gherkins, chutney and red wine at the side

Be-lavie Recommendations: Have one of the set boards like the Cheeses of the Day, as they’re perfect for one person along with a special wine as we did and share between two if you’re popped in for a pre dinner snack. Think of it as a good quality Aperitivi experience, in the heart of Ely!

The Details

Location: 28a High St, ELY CB7 4JU.
Find it Here: Map Location.
Details: Website & Menu.
Opening Hours: Tues-Weds 10:00-15:00, Thurs-Sat 10:00-16:00, Sun 10:00-16:00.
Reservations: Not Applicable.
Price Range: ££

The Market Kitchen

This family run cafe was very busy during our visit, it was pretty hard to find a table infact so we never got a chance to dine here. Market Kitchen serves delicious looking homemade cooked breakfasts, lunches, cakes, teas, coffees and more to eat in, sit outside or grab a takeaway from their dedicated take out shop front on the side.

What we saw looked really good and the number of diners here really does speak for its self. We wanted to include this independent cafe for it’s popularity with locals and if you get a chance to visit, do let us know what you thought! Otherwise this is another one we’ll be adding to the future visit list!

Side view of the exterior of Market Kitchen, Ely. The exterior is cream with black writing and there are chairs putside with bistro tables

Market Kitchen Takeaway exterior, Ely. the exterior has a cream facade with black signage

The Details

Location: 5 Market St, ELY CB7 4PB.
Find it Here: Map Location.
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 09:00-15:00, Sat. 08:45-15:30, Sun closed.
Reservations: Not Applicable.
Reviews: Read what other visitors are saying.
Price Range: £/££

Vegetarian-Friendly Dinner Spots in Ely

Urban Fresh

Urban Fresh is a lively and colourful restaurant based overlooking the river in Ely and serves food inspired by the flavours of South America. They specialise in fresh and quality ingredients in all their dishes.

Rose wine being poured at Urban Fresh, Ely. The wine glass is on a dark brown wood table. The hand pouting it has a green and pink striped sleeve

A small round dish of Padron peppers topped with Halloumi crumb at Urban Fresh, Ely

South American lady in photo on wall at Urban Fresh, Ely. The lady is holding a cigar close to her mouth and has red flowers in her hair

We loved the decor which featured vibrant photographs and prints on the wall as well as the laid back vibe inside. The service is exceptional and the staff are really well versed in suggesting dishes to suit your tastes. If you want to kick your meal off in traditional latin American style, have a shot of Mezcal! We didn’t just incase you’re wondering, as it was a school night but the option is always there!

Deconstructed vegetarian burger with paella in the back at Urban Fresh, Ely. The burger is bread less - a patty topped with rocket, a bowl of triple fried chips, guacamole and red salsa

A round dish with 6 churros arranged in a circle, drizzled with chocolate sauce with a scoop of ice-cream in the middle

Be-lavie Recommendations: We started our meal with a bottle of Club de Campo Malbec Rose from Mendoza, Argentina. To start we shared the padron peppers with maldon chilli salt & halloumi crumb. For mains the Spiced Mexican Burger made from sweet potato & black bean burger, guacamole, bravas sauce & served with triple cooked chips. Both of these dishes are also vegan, To end we had the Churros to share filled with Dulce de Leche.

The Details

Location: 5 Annesdale, ELY CB7 4BN.
Find it Here: Map Location.
Details: Website & Menu.
Opening Hours: Mon-Friday 12:00-2100, Sat-Sun 09:00-21:00.
Reservations: Recommended especially at weekends.
Reviews: Read what other customers are saying.
Price Range: ££

The Dining Room at Poet’s House Hotel

The Dining Room restaurant at Poets House, Ely offers a great selection of seasonal dishes using fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The wine list here is quite extensive and menus change seasonally and daily with Sunday’s incorporating a roast or nut roast option.

The Dining Room interiors, Ely. The walls are a pale blue with a silver farmed ornate mirror on the mantle and plants. The chairs are pale blue velvet with silver light and accessory accents

Rose wine bottle and glass at The Dining, Room, Ely

Cheese souffle in a grey stoneware plate with bread slices on the side at The Dining Room, Ely

The ambiance is quite and is perfect if like us you are staying at the hotel and fancy staying in. Portions are quite large for mains and bear in mind the restaurant is quite small so booking ahead is a good call. It does feel rather intimate at times with tables being quite close but the food is good and there are quite a few vegetarian and vegan options available.

vegetarian Sunday roast at The Dining Room, Ely. The nut roast is topped with seasonal veegatable and a large Yorkshire pudding on top on a white large plate.

A top lay Deconstructed Eton Mess on a plate with cream, meringue bits and strawberries on a grey plate. There is a swoosh of strawberry coulis on the side.

During our 2 night break in Ely, we stayed at the Poet’s House Hotel and really enjoyed our two nights here, plus it has such a fantastic location, across the road from Ely Cathedral. Read more about our stay at Poet’s House luxury boutique hotel in Ely and why we think it’s a great staycation option in our article.

Be-lavie Recommendations: We opted for the a la carte menu and started with a bottle of Malbec “La Vaca Gorda” from Mendoza, Argentina, then onto the cheese souffle to start, (baked until golden and served with warm, herb-infused focaccia bread). As it was a Sunday, we opted for the nut roast with seasonal veggies and then onto a dessert to share of crushed meringue, chantilly cream and fresh strawberries.

The Details

Location: Poet’s House Hotel. 40 – 44 St Mary’s St, ELY CB7 4EY.
Find it Here: Map Location.
Details: Website & Menu.
Opening Hours: Open Mon-Sun 09:00-20:45.
Reservations: Yes.
Reviews: Read what other customers are saying.
Read our Review Article: Our honest review of the hotel
Price Range: ££/£££

Check Rates & Book The Poets House Hotel

The Old Fire Engine House

We didn’t dine here but wanted to include it as we did research it and would be great for someone wanting a more of a fine dining experience that is also quite traditional and homely, in the city.

The Old Fire Engine House is a restaurant and art gallery situated just West of the cathedral in an attractive Georgian house with a large walled garden full of shrubs and flowers. Ely’s horse drawn fire engine was kept at this site at the turn of the century, which diners can see in a photograph thats above the fireplace in the bar.

Built on the former site of an 18th century farmhouse, expect great quality seasonal ingredients with a small menu selection. Vegetarian guests can expect to find an option at each course but it is quite limited.

They also serve coffee and teas alongside cakes together with lunch and dinner service. The first floor of the restaurant has a gallery featuring artworks.

The black front door of the Old Fire Engine House, Ely. The door is of a Regency style and the property is light brick coloured

The former entrance of The Old Fire Engine House, Ely, which has the name of the property written above in a circle sign. The gate is wrought iron and gardens can be seen through the bars. The wall is alight brick surround.

Back view of the Old Fire Engine House with the sign and the black back door. The property has a light brick exterior

Location: Poet’s House Hotel. 40 – 44 St Mary’s St, ELY CB7 4EY.
Find it Here: Map Location.
Details: Website & Menu.
Opening Hours: Tues – Sat 10:30-20:30, Sun 12:00-17:30.
Reservations: Yes essential.
Reviews: Read what other customers are saying.
Price Range: ££

Other Places to Eat Vegetarian-Friendly Food in Ely

Ely Fudge Company

Ok so not technically somewhere you’d eat but rather shop! Those who have a sweet tooth and love their sweet buttery fudge in a big variety of flavours, you have to head to the Ely Fudge Company. It’s very popular with visitors and what’s nice is that you can try before you buy.

We particularly are fond of family run businesses like this one where they use recipes, where they’ve sourced the finest local ingredients, supporting fellow small businesses too.

The selection includes packaged fudge which is perfect for gifting, although we’d recommend buying your desired flavour by weight as its more cost effective. So many delicious flavours from coffee and cream to vanilla to Baileys and white chocolate, there is something for everyone and they even have fudge ice cream!

Exterior of Ely Fudge Company Store with a black sign and a big ice-cream cone in front

Coffee and cream fudge chunks under the counter with a black sign featuring white lettering reading Coffee & Cream

A white long tray with taster pieces of Biscoff fudge

A side view of Ely Fudge Company with bejal holding a white appaer bag with coffee and cream fudge pieces inside

Be-lavie Recommendations: Hand down our favourite has to be the coffee and cream fudge. It’s also great value for handmade fudge.

The Details

Location: 31 Market Pl, ELY CB7 4NT.
Find it Here: Map Location.
Details: Website.
Opening Hours: Tues – Sat 10:30-20:30, Sun 12:00-17:30.
Reviews: Read what other customers are saying.
Price Range: ££

Ely Markets

If like us, frequenting markets, like it’s an olympic sport is your thing then Ely Markets is one place you cannot miss.

Food markets are held each Thursday,(Charter Market-traditional market offerings plus a few surprises) Saturday (craft, food and vintage items) and Sunday (local crafts, artisan coffee, plants and gifts to vintage collectables, and a selection of street food) with dedicated farmer’s markets taking place twice a month too.

Ely market is commonly know for selling fresh locally grown fruits and vegetables with all the surrounding fen and arable farming land, artisan bread, cakes and often has some great street food. Things are very reasonably priced here too. If you’re on a budget, then it’s a good place to pick up some picnic items to take away.

Heading to the market is a great way to try some of the locally sourced produce of the county of Cambridgeshire.

The Ely Markets sign in Market place, Ely. The board is dark grey with a map in teh middle and lettering in white

Be-lavie Recommendations: unfortunately there wasn’t a market on during our visit but we did head to Silver Oak Coffee which has it’s Rig selling delicious coffee, daily in the market place.

The Details

Location: Market Place, ELY CB7 4LS.
Find it Here: Map Location.
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 08:30-16:00 (closes at 15:30 on Sat=Sin), Closed Mondays.
Details: Website.
Details: See what other visitors are saying.
Reservations: Not Applicable.
Price Range: £/££

Prospects Trust Unwrapped

Although we ran out of time to head here, we really wanted to highlight it for the work it does for the local community that require additional needs, disabilities and autism. They have various projects such as in their Refill Green grocery Cafe in the heart of Ely (Unwrapped) and out and about on their Garden Team at Snakehall Farm, which is a real farm providing real work experience producing sustainable, seasonal organic products and produce. Established in 1989, Prospects Trust, is a social inspiring enterprise that grow differently, retail differently and provide care placements differently.

Unwrapped is a social enterprise green grocery that combines the best deli style food that allows sustainable, seasonal and zero waste shopping. There is a refill larder and cafe that sells hot drinks as well as light hot and cold snacks and cakes.

We hope that if you visit you can support this wonderfu enterprise that places the community and sustainability at it’s core.

Exterior of Prospects Trust Unwrapped with seating and foliage and dressed for autumn in greens and orange colours

the Details

Location: 13 Lynn Rd, ELY CB7 4EG.
Find it Here: Map Location
Details: Website.
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 09:30-16:00.
Reviews: See what other shoppers are saying.
Reservations: Not Applicable.
Price Range: £/££

Hadi’s Gelato

Again we didn’t get a chance to try some of Hadi’s talked about gelato but want to put it on your radar if you’re visiting. The gelato is authentically Italian, made onsite daily and reasonably priced for the quality. Many of the products are attained from Italy for that real italian flavour and taste. They don’t just do gelatos but also waffles and milkshakes and guests can eat in or take away.

Locals say that the service is exceptionally friendly and the gelato is amazing. Let us know what you think if you visit please!

The pink exterior of Hadi's Gelato in Ely wit a big fake My Whippy ice-cream at the front entrance

Location: s, 3 Lynn road Hadi, 3 Lynn Rd, ELY CB7 4EG.
Find it Here: Map Location.
Details: Website.
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 11:00-18:00. Sun 11:00-17:00.
Reservations: Not Applicable.
Reviews: See what other shoppers are saying.
Price Range: £/££

The Yard by Silver Oak

We literally discovered The Yard as we were leaving Ely but had to have a quick peek in to see what it is all about and so that we can suggest you should visit!

Think of a yard with cool seating indoors and outdoors plus all weather sealable and heated pods! Its very much a street food vibe with backyard kitchens that serve up brunch, lunch and more.

The focus is with most places in Ely on local ingredients and lots of international street food style options, daily freshly based cakes and Silver Oak coffee have their coffee counter here.

They host seasonal events here like Quiz, pottery, paint and sip nights to mention a few. It’s a super cool space and offer popular foodie events, including Pie Night (every 2nd Tuesday of the month)!

The Yard outdoor seating area with Silver Oak coffee counter, Ely. There are lots of tables and high stools and seats available. The ceiling is covered with fairy lights

The outdoor pods at The Yard, Ely. There is a statue of a wooden boxer dog beside the pods

Location: 35A Newnham St, ELY CB7 4PG.
Find it Here: Map Location.
Details: http: Website, Menus & Events.
Opening Hours: Ties-Thurs 09:00-21:00, Fri-Sun 09:00-21:30, Closed Mondays.
Reservations: Not Applicable.
Reviews: See what other shoppers are saying.
Price Range: £/££

Vegetarian-Friendly Places to Eat in Ely FAQs

Is Ely also Vegan friendly?

Yes, most of the places we’ve featured in this guide also have a few vegan options, except for Victoria’s Cheese. Prosper Ely is the cities sole vegan cafe too.

Is the foodie scene quite stuffy in Ely?

No not at all, Ely is quite the opposite. All the independent places we have included in our guide are laid back and there’s no need to dress up either. Smart casual is acceptable at places like The Dining Room at Poet’s House Hotel and The Old Fire Engine House Restaurant & Gallery.

Do we need to make Reservations in advance?

For ease we have included for each eatery whether reservations are essential. Most do not but again for evening meals especially at Poet’s House Hotel and The Old Fire Engine House Restaurant & Gallery and Urban Fresh we would advise you to. These can also get pretty busy at weekends and in the summer months.

Is there a tipping culture in Ely?

Like the rest of the UK, tipping is down to personal choice. If you love the food and service and want to extend your gratitude then we’d suggest 20% of the total final bill is completely adequate.

Who knew, Ely is a Vegetarian-Friendly Foodie City? A Round up

We hope we’ve convinced you in this post that Ely proves to be a welcoming spot for vegetarian and vegan foodies, with a wide mix of options that go far beyond the basics. From fully plant based cafés such as Prosper to tearooms, and more finer dining restaurants with thoughtful vegetarian menus, the city balances tradition with modern tastes. Add in artisan cheese shops, grazing platters, and sweet cake stops. Ely offers plenty to satisfy every craving. Whether you’re local or visiting for the weekend, it’s a small city with a surprisingly big appetite for vegetarian dining.

Travel Resources to Help Plan Your Trip

Flights: Search & Book the best flight options through SKYSCANNER

Travel Insurance: An absolute must-have! Check rates on SAFETYWING
Hotels: Choose from a wide range of accommodation with BOOKING.COM
Trains: Get the best available options for rail passes with OMIO
Buses: Scope out the best coach travel deals in Europe with OMIO
Car Hire: Compare, search & secure the best vehicle to suit your needs with DISCOVER CARS

Activities: Personalise your travel with top destination experiences with GET YOUR GUIDE & VIATOR
Shopping: A one-stop online shop for all your travel shopping needs, including travel guides AMAZON
Traveller Reviews: Check unbiased reviews for accommodation, tours and restaurants at TRIPADVISOR
Travel Resources: Access Be-lavie’s full-list of tried and tested PARTNERS
eSIM: Keep roaming charges low with an eSIM from AIRALO

À bientôt

Pin & Save

Enjoyed this article? Then Pin & Save to Pinterest for future reference

Vegetarian food in Ely Pinterest Pin with 9 images overlaid with text. Text reads, Eat vegetarian food in Ely England. 19 best recommendations

Vegetarian food in Ely Pinterest Pin with 2 images overlaid with text. Text reads, Where to eat great vegetarian food in Ely, cambridgeshire

Bejal

I’m Bejal, an ex-scientist turned travel writer and content creator. I have visited 75 plus countries, including an around the world trip, which makes me quite the expert in crafting intricate itineraries! My travel style places an emphasis on sustainable and responsible adventures that supports the planet, local businesses and communities at its core. Read my guides and itineraries which aim to inspire you to create your own travel and vegetarian foodie jaunts to less visited spots of popular destinations as well as more unique locales. I have a soft spot for boutique eco-hotels here too! Be-lavie is all about mindful travel with a sprinkling of luxury.