With the proliferation of various dietary restrictions, classic vegetarianism is benefiting from the collective consciousness of those making an effort to eat clean. We take a gastronomic tour through the Britomart precinct and discover a wealth of eateries serving delectable dishes for those who choose to dine meat-free.

Halloumi Bruschetta – Shaky Isles
Vegetarian or not, this has to be one of the most delicious ways to start the day. Shaky Isles’ halloumi bruschetta is topped with avocado, fresh heirloom tomato, coriander, lime and black pepper for a supremely flavoursome dish. (www.shakyisles.co.nz)

Nepali Momos – Xuxu Dumpling Bar
This recently reestablished dumpling bar’s menu features the ever-popular Nepali Momos that encase spinach and cabbage within their delicately thin casing, making for some moreish little meat-free parcels. (www.xuxu.co.nz)

Asparagus Pasta – Amano
You’re well taken care of whether you’re a vegetarian or not at Amano, the asparagus Casoncei pasta is well worth trying. Served with brown butter and buttermilk, the egg dough parcels are then filled with chargrilled asparagus and parmesan. (www.amano.nz)

La Vegetarienne – L’Assiette
Assuming you’re not vegan, another breakfast alternative that even the French can appreciate is L’Assiette’s meat-free omelette, La Vegetarienne, which combines mushrooms, spinach and blue cheese for a melt in your mouth, tasty morning meal. (www.lassiette.co.nz)

Vegetarian Dumplings – Seven
The newest kid on the block is serving up some delicious Pan-Asian delicacies but it’s the spinach, tofu, and oyster mushroom dumplings that come serves with ginger soy and sesame oil that are guaranteed to be a hit among vegetarians and carnivores alike. (www.seafarers.co.nz/seven) 

Agedashi Tofu – Ebisu
Endowed with a plethora of pescetarian options, vegetarians are also taken care of at Ebisu, where the Agedashi tofu is a steadfast choice. This delicious dish comes lightly fried with Nametake mushrooms, soy broth, chilli string and spring onion. (www.ebisu.co.nz)

Mushroom Burger – Better Burger
Don’t be put off by the name, this popular burger joint has a sensational vegetarian option that replaces the meat patty with an equally meaty, whole field mushroom. Perfect for those who don’t want to miss out on what has fast become a cult burger offering. (www.betterburger.co.nz)

Parmesan Beignets – Ostro
Although this dish is considered a side, you absolutely cannot go past these delicious, deep-fried balls of cheesy goodness. However, we’d also suggest indulging in the mushroom gnocchi. Rendered delectably appetizing with the addition of ‘out of the dark’ mushrooms, truffle cream, pickled onion and potato crisps, it’s a standout for anyone visiting the well-stationed bistro. (www.seafarers.co.nz)

Mushroom Taco – Mexico
This popular haunt’s inspired vegetarian Chimichangas harnesses pan-fried mushroom with leek, chilli, queso, cactus and salsa Asada, providing a perfectly novel vego fix. (www.mexico.net.nz)