Exploring Albania’s Vegetarian and Vegan Scene

Are you a vegan or vegetarian planning to visit Albania?

If so, you’re in for a treat!

While Albania boasts a rich culinary heritage and an abundance of fresh produce, uncovering suitable vegan and vegetarian options can prove to be quite challenging, especially in smaller cities.

This is why, our team at Magic Towns Albania has taken on this task with enthusiasm. We’ve delved deep into the local food landscape to uncover a few vegetarian and vegan-friendly options that you will love.

Vegan and Vegetarian-Friendly Options in Tirana

As the capital city, Tirana offers a wider variety of vegetarian and vegan options compared to other cities in Albania. Let’s explore these options together and discover some delicious plant-based meals that you’ll love!

Veggies

Open: Mon-Sat 8:00 am-10:00 pm, Sun 11:30 am-8:00 pm

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ (4.4)

Veggies is a must-visit for any traveller seeking healthy and tasty vegan options. They offer a wide range of soups, main dishes, sandwiches, and desserts, catering to vegans’ cravings. The menu is clearly labelled, making it easy to choose from the variety of options available, all at decent prices. The staff provide excellent service, with friendly and helpful English-speaking staff. Located in the modern part of town away from heavy traffic, it’s a convenient stop for a satisfying meal.

Falafel House

Open: Mon-Sat 10:00 am-9:00 pm

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ (4.7)

Falafel House is a vegan-friendly spot in Tirana where you can enjoy delicious falafel, which is prepared fresh when you order. You can also customize it based on your preferences. The taste is amazing, and everything, including the sauces, is vegan. What sets this place apart is the fresh salad and flavorful hummus and tahini they use, making it better than your average falafel joint. Despite being a small street food place with no seating, the service is friendly, the portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable. Definitely worth a visit while exploring the city!

Green & Protein

Open until 11:00 pm

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ (4.2)

Green & Protein in Tirana offers a range of healthy and tasty choices for vegetarians and vegans. Guests love the variety of plant-based alternatives offered. The vegan options, like the vegan burger and salad, come recommended but are a bit priced. Popular choices also include the smoked salmon salad and freshly squeezed orange juice. Overall, Green & Protein is a decent option if you’re after a tasty and healthy meal.

Fit Food

Open: Mon-Sat 6:00 am-2:00 pm, 3:00 pm-4:00 pm

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ (4.4)

Fit Food Bar in Tirana is a top choice for those seeking fresh and healthy meal options. Though a bit pricier than other juice bars nearby, the quality of ingredients and tasty smoothies justify the cost. The staff is welcoming and helpful, ensuring a pleasant visit. While seating is limited due to delivery orders, the wait is worthwhile for a taste of their fantastic fresh juice. And if you’re hungry, at Fit Food you’ll find a variety of salads and vegan choices.

Gjelbër Tirana Healthy Vegetarian Vegan

Open until 10:00 pm

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.8)

This health-focused restaurant in Tirana offers a variety of options for both vegans and meat-eaters. With a menu featuring bowls, salads, toasts, falafel, wraps, and more, there’s something for everyone. Most dishes are vegan by default, but you can accommodate vegan requests for all menu items as well. The salads are particularly impressive, prepared with fresh and healthy ingredients, and the fresh juices are simply amazing. The ambience is peaceful, making it a delightful place to dine. However, some portions are a bit small, which might leave some wanting more, especially if they have hearty appetites or are accustomed to larger servings.

Happy Belly – EatSmart

Open until 8:30 pm

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.9)

Happy Belly – EatSmart is another great option for all the healthy fellows out there. The friendly owner adds to the welcoming atmosphere, offering a pleasant eating experience for all. Visitors are encouraged to sample the delectable smoothies, despite their absence from the menu. This place specializes in vegetarian fare, sourcing fresh fruits and vegetables daily to create healthy and ever-changing dishes. Each plate is a unique culinary creation, prepared with the ingredients available that day. Guests with dietary preferences, such as veganism, are warmly accommodated, receiving plates of mixed veggies and flavorful juices.

Morsi

Open until 11:30 pm

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ (4.5)

This charming place, boasts two locations, one in the heart of Blloku, and the other in Arena, and offers a delightful atmosphere with outdoor seating perfect for enjoying the surroundings. Their menu features both vegan and vegetarian paninis, catering to plant-based diners. While their salads, pizza, and pasta are not inherently vegan, the establishment prides itself on freshly made dishes, and modifications to suit vegan preferences are readily accommodated.

Fabrika

Open until 11 pm

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.9)

This ice cream shop is a lovely place located near the centre that you must visit when in Tirana. With a variety of vegan options, including five different flavours of vegan ice cream, the selection doesn’t disappoint. The friendly staff, fluent in English, provides excellent service and even can translate the flavours for you. With an extensive selection of oat-based vegan ice creams, including flavours like fig, passion fruit, chocolate, melon, pineapple, salted caramel, peach, walnut, raspberry, and yoghurt, this place comes highly recommended for vegans and non-vegans alike.

Vegan and Vegetarian-Friendly Options in Other Cities

Now, let’s jump into the journey of exploring what other cities in Albania have to offer when it comes to vegan and vegetarian alternatives.

Vegan-Friendly Restaurant in Krujë

While Kruja is not widely known for its vegan-friendly options, (also being a small town doesn’t help) there are still some choices available for plant-based eaters. After researching all the possible alternatives available, we found out that there is one local organic restaurant that might satisfy your cravings as a vegan eater.

Garden Organic Restaurant & Mali Camping

Open until 11:30 pm

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.7)

This organic family restaurant, located amidst its own garden and campsite, offers a unique dining experience with a focus on sustainability. While the menu includes meat options, there are also plenty of vegan choices available. Diners can enjoy freshly made vegan soup and a delightful vegetable platter, both crafted in-house. Keep in mind that it’s important to specify vegan when ordering, ensuring a plant-based dining experience.

Discover the perfect itinerary on how to spend a day in Kruja for an amazing experience.

Vegetarian and Vegan-Friendly Restaurants in Shkodër

If you’re vegan or vegetarian and planning a trip to Shkodra we have discovered some fantastic restaurants in the city that fit plant-based diets.

Arti’Zanave

Open until 11:00 pm

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.6)

This charming place has a menu comprising predominantly vegetarian options, with a handful catering to vegans. Among their offerings, the stuffed eggplants and peppers stand out for their delicious flavour. The menu features a selection of traditional Albanian dishes, with some being vegan, some vegetarian, and one containing meat. Generous portion sizes at a modest price make dining here a delightful experience. The cosy ambience and welcoming staff highlight the overall experience, making it a recommended stop for those seeking delicious, homemade Albanian cuisine.

Pasta te Zenga

Open until 11:00 pm

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.7)

This restaurant offers delicious specials, with a staff that is knowledgeable and accommodating when it comes to vegan options. The pasta dish is exceptionally delicious and made with fresh ingredients, and the salad is delightful as well. The playful and friendly manners of the staff add to the overall positive experience.

PURI

Open until 11:00 pm

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.8)

This restaurant comes highly recommended, earning a perfect rating from satisfied clients. The “Father’s Rice,” traditionally served with meat, can be easily modified to a vegan option upon request. Instead of meat, clients can receive a generous serving of grilled vegetables in a flavorful sauce, creating a delicious and fulfilling dish. The side dishes of veggies are equally delightful, although they typically come with cheese. However, to ensure a fully vegan experience, simply request no meat or cheese when placing your order.

Vegetarian and Vegan-Friendly Restaurants in Theth

Given that Theth is a village, finding restaurants that cater to vegetarian and vegan needs can be quite challenging. However, Buni i Bajraktarit provides a limited yet satisfying selection of options to accommodate your dietary preferences.

Buni i Bajrakarit

Open till 6 pm

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.3)

Set against breathtaking views, this newly constructed restaurant offers a luxurious dining experience. The staff are incredibly friendly and accommodating, ensuring a pleasant visit. While the vegan options are limited, the plate of fresh salad and veggies are beautifully presented, featuring tomatoes, cucumber, onion, peppers, cabbage, and olives. You can also enjoy a generous portion of perfectly cooked chips, accompanied by a basket of bread served with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Vegetarian and Vegan-Friendly Restaurants in Korçë

Despite the limited selection, you can still enjoy a few delicious and satisfying vegan and vegetarian meals during your time in Korça, in the restaurants mentioned below.

FindFour

Open till 11:30 pm

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.6)

Located in Korçë, this lovely restaurant offers a variety of vegan dishes alongside its regular menu. Guests are suggested to start their meal with a delicious focaccia topped with olive oil and oregano. For the main course, options include penne with tomato sauce and gnocchi with tomato sauce, both of which can be prepared without cheese upon request to accommodate vegan preferences.

Fix si Qëmoti

Open until 11:30 pm

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.3)

Located by the main square of the bazaar, this welcoming place offers a delightful dining experience. The food is served promptly and is incredibly delicious, making for a satisfying meal. The attentive service adds to the overall positive ambience. Guests can expect delicious food in a cosy setting. For vegetarians, the menu offers a variety of options such as salads, pasta, and pizza.

Vegetarian and Vegan-Friendly Restaurants in Berat

In Berat, you can explore Eni Traditional Food, and Lili Homemade Food, both amazing and highly suggested spots by tourists.

Eni Traditional Food

Opens at 9 am Friday

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.9)

The food here is bursting with flavour and offers a wide array of vegetarian and vegan options. The vegan traditional dishes are a real treat, and you can also enjoy a Greek salad, made vegan by simply omitting the cheese. Every dish exceeds expectations, and the staff, speaks excellent English and is incredibly friendly and accommodating.

Homemade Food Lili

Opens at 5:30 pm

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.9)

With a concise menu featuring two vegan dishes, two vegetarian options, and three meat-based choices, along with two salad options, this restaurant offers simplicity with quality. What truly makes this place stand out is the incredible hospitality of the host, whose name is Lili. One thing is for sure, if you visit Berat and this amazing restaurant, you’re about to have an incredible experience!

Vegetarian and Vegan-Friendly Restaurants in Gjirokastër

In Gjirokastër, you’ll discover a few spots offering vegan and vegetarian-friendly options. While the selection is not as extensive as in larger cities, you can still find some delightful choices that serve as a great substitute for traditional recipes.

Edua

Open till 10 pm

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.3)

This restaurant impresses with its clear indication of vegan options on the menu, making it easy for plant-based diners to navigate their choices. The selection is diverse, with generous portions and delicious dishes that satisfy the palate. The service is pleasant and efficient, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. However, it’s advisable to confirm with the staff about specific vegan options, such as vegetable balls, which may contain eggs. Despite this, the majority of the menu is well-labelled.

Restaurant Tradicional Odaja

Open till 11 pm

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ (4.5)

The menu clearly indicates vegan options. While the choices are varied and the portions generous, the service is pleasant and efficient. The prices are budget-friendly, which is great. However, there is a lack of sufficient vegan options.

Vegetarian and Vegan-Friendly Restaurants in Vlorë

In Vlora, we chose Anchor and Novis, as two main spots that offer vegan and vegetarian-friendly food options.

Pizzeri Bar Restorant “Anchor”

Open till 11:30 pm

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.3)

Although there aren’t many vegan dishes on the menu, you can order grilled veggies for a real treat. You can also order bruschetta (make sure you ask it’s prepared without cheese.) You can also modify the Village Pizza by removing the cheese. Additionally, other potential vegan choices include the Vegetarian Pizza and the Marinara. Despite the limited vegan options, the friendly staff will make sure you enjoy your meal!

Novus Traditional-Food-Restaurant

Open Mon-Sun 12:00 pm-10:00 pm

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.6)

This restaurant offers an array of awesome traditional dishes, with several vegetarian options available. While there are currently limited vegan choices, such as the vegan stuffed eggplant and stuffed peppers with rice, the possibility of more vegan options in the future is something to look forward to. Overall, dining here offers a great experience!

Note: If you’re craving some fresh juice, Vlore has just the spot for you! Head to this fruit juice shop for cheap, freshly squeezed juices with plenty of options to choose from. You’ll love the refreshing taste, and the friendly owner makes the experience even better!

Vegetarian and Vegan-Friendly Restaurants in Sarandë

In Saranda, there are a few spots where you can savour plant-based delights. Keep an eye out for cafes and restaurants offering salads bursting with local flavours or hearty vegetable soups to warm your soul.

Arches Brasserie

Open until 1:00 am

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.2)

The menu offers clearly labelled vegan options, and the staff are knowledgeable about veganism, making ordering a breeze. For starters, you can indulge in a refreshing green salad and a selection of olives. Additionally, the menu features grilled vegetables and soup as vegan-friendly options. The risotto which is labelled as vegetarian, can be easily made vegan upon request, using olive oil instead of butter. This attention to detail ensures a delicious dining experience that fits perfectly vegan needs.

Hotel Primavera

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.7)

This restaurant, located within Hotel Primavera, offers a selection of vegan options alongside its meat-based dishes. Vegan choices include vegetable soup, vegetable rice, grilled veggies, and salads without cheese. To ensure a vegan meal, it’s advisable to check with the staff before placing your order. This ensures that any dietary preferences or restrictions are accommodated to your satisfaction.

Bote Farms

Open Mon-Sat 10:30 am-3:30 pm. Closed Sunday.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.9)

Bote Farms is located just 19-minutes away from Saranda, in the village of Finiq. Not only is this place a lovely option for those seeking plant-based meals around the area, but it also hosts very interesting events and retreats you can join. This farm-to-table restaurant offers a unique seven-course dining experience, showcasing the best of locally sourced ingredients. While the menu primarily features meat-based dishes, there are vegan options available. Guests can enjoy vegan items such as bruschetta, salads, fried vegetables, byreks, couscous, and dessert. This restaurant is definitely a must-visit for an unforgettable sustainable culinary journey.

Learn how to make vegan Albanian byrek with our simple and quick recipe.

Note: During the summer season in Saranda, be sure to explore Green Life Market, for an array of vegan products. Please note that the market is currently closed, but it’s worth keeping in mind for your future visits to the area.

Vegetarian and Vegan-Friendly Supermarkets in Albania

Rossman & Lala

Open until 10 pm

Average rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ (4.5)

Rossman and Lala’s drugstore offers a variety of vegan cosmetics, making them a go-to destination for those seeking cruelty-free personal care products such as soaps, shampoos, and sunscreen. They also offer a selection of vegan snacks and food items like tofu, chocolate bars with coconut from Veganz, nuts and oats, etc. Rossman and Lala can be found in several locations across Albania, including various neighbourhoods in Tirana, as well as in Durrës, Sarandë, and Vlorë.

Supermarket BioJu

Open until 11 pm

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ (4.5)

This supermarket stands out for having a dedicated vegan section, making it a convenient destination for plant-based shoppers. Within this section, customers can find a diverse range of vegan products, including vegan cheese, butter, plant-based milk, chocolates, chorizo, salami, and more.

BARONESHA PREMIUM FOOD

Open until 10 pm

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Located conveniently in Blloku, this store offers a unique selection of products that are hard to find elsewhere in Albania. From vegan cheese to tofu, baked beans, Oatly, and an array of plant-based milks, here you’ll find a vast vegan selection that extends across every section. Customers can discover vegan alternatives for milk, ice cream, spreadable cheese, chips, cookies, lollies, pesto, baked beans, fresh pasta, granola, yoghurt, and much more. While many items are clearly labelled as vegan, some require the assistance of Google Translate due to their diverse origins and multilingual ingredient lists.

Note: You can find vegetarian and vegan alternatives in other supermarkets too, such as Big Market, Spar, ProNatyra and Conad.

Tips for Vegan and Vegetarian Travelers

1. Research vegan and vegetarian-friendly restaurants and markets in advance, especially if you plan to visit smaller towns or rural areas.
2. Be open-minded and willing to explore traditional Albanian dishes with a vegan or vegetarian twist. Furthermore, don’t hesitate to inquire about alternative options. For instance, at coffee shops, you can request a different type of milk instead of the usual, non-vegan one.
3. Carry snacks like nuts, fruits, and energy bars for times when vegan options may be limited. Check out popular supermarkets (like Rossman & Lala, Big Market, Spar) for such snacks.

Ready to Explore Albania as a Vegetarian/Vegan?

While Albania’s vegetarian and vegan scene is still growing, there are exciting options to discover, especially in larger cities like Tirana. With more awareness and demand, you can look forward to even more delicious and sustainable plant-based choices across the country. So, whether you’re a lifelong vegan or just curious, there’s something for everyone to explore and enjoy in Albania’s evolving culinary landscape.

Feel free to reach out with any questions before your trip to Albania.

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