Vegan in Rome: A Local’s Guide to Sustainable Food, Fashion and Community

Anya
May 20
3 min read

Updated: 3 days ago

Explore a full day of vegan living in Rome, from breakfast bites to cruelty-free fashion and zero-waste shopping.

Being vegan in Rome isn’t just about food—it’s a lifestyle. One that blends conscious choices with creativity, and community in Rome with everyday rituals. Whether you’ve lived here for years or you’re just getting curious about plant-based life in Rome, this guide walks you through a day in the rhythm of someone living that slow and sustainable life.

Colorful food truck with "Go Vegan" art and a large avocado painting on the door. Surrounded by trees, vibrant and inviting mood.

Morning in Pietralata and Testaccio: Cruelty-Free with Character

Start the day in Pietralata, a neighborhood that’s all about local flavor in Rome.

First stop? Fratelli Piermattei, a bar that might not win any design awards—but ask a local vegan, and they’ll tell you it’s iconic.

“This is my go-to breakfast spot in Rome—not far from my neighborhood. It’s your classic no-frills Roman bar, nothing curated about it. But they have an incredible selection of vegan croissants, pastries, and sweets. It’s the real Rome, with real Romans—not the trendy vegan crowd, and I love that.”

A silver tray of golden-brown croissants stacked high, in a warm-lit bakery setting with blurred pendant lights in the background.

After fueling up, swing by Box 83 – Vegan Store inside the Nuovo Mercato Testaccio, the first fully vegan stall in a public Roman market. Perfect for vegan groceries in Rome, fresh bites, or even just a bit of browsing.

Then pop around the corner to FU(R)TURE, a cruelty-free fashion boutique on Via Bodoni. Shoes, bags, and swimwear made from natural, sustainable materials. It’s where ethics meet style.

Midday in Salario: Sustainable Choices, Every Day

For lunch, treat yourself at Fermaggio Bistrò & Store, a new spot from the makers of Italy’s beloved vegan cheese line.

“Everything they serve—sandwiches, stuffed focaccia, mini pizzas—is made using their own incredible plant-based cheeses. The flavors? Next level. It’s perfect for a casual but flavor-packed lunch.”

A great pick if you're looking for things to do in Rome with a foodie twist.

Bread and two cheese wedges on a textured surface, accompanied by small white flowers. A rustic and natural setting evokes a cozy mood.

Afternoon in Valle Aurelia and Trastevere: Food First, but Self-Care Too

Head to Valle Aurelia and step into iVegan Store, where plant-based living in Rome goes beyond the grocery list. If you prefer shopping from home, their online vegan store makes it easy.

Then take a detour to BEA Ecobiosfuso, a zero-waste and refill shop in the Trastevere neighborhood. Bring your own containers and browse their selection of low-impact home and beauty products.

Four bars of handmade soap wrapped in brown paper and twine, set on wooden surface with dried lavender in the background.

Late Afternoon in Castelverde and Ostiense: Following Your Sweet Tooth

Looking for an afternoon pause? Head to Snug – The Comfort Café, one of Rome’s sweetest vegan cafes in Castelverde.

“It’s tucked away in the suburbs, but worth the detour. Picture American bakery vibes, cozy interiors, and cakes so pretty they deserve their own photo shoot. The flavored lattes and mochas? Absolute heaven.”

Or, for something sweeter and based in Ostiense: right next to Romeow, Julietta Pastry and Lab brings a refined take on vegan pastries in Rome. This elegant pasticceria serves beautifully crafted cakes and pastries that are as photogenic as they are delicious.

"I wasn’t expecting to be wowed, but the flavors here are next level—delicate, rich, and plant-based indulgence."

Early Evening in Pigneto: Vintage Finds & Local Aperitivo Plans

We're heading to Pigneto, where vintage shopping in Rome meets vibrance. At Mademoiselle Vintage, you’ll find second-hand items with style and conscience perfect if you're after eco-friendly fashion.

If you’re getting hungry again, make a pit stop at vegustibus in Garbatella.

“This little deli is run by a lovely Roman couple and has a bit of everything—from breakfast maritozzi to stuffed panini, suppli, and even vegan groceries. It’s casual, warm, and always delicious.”

Woven basket filled with asparagus, avocados, tomatoes, and a yellow pepper on a dark surface, creating a fresh, colorful display.

Dinner in Ostiense: A Special Night Out

For dinner with a twist (and a purr), book a table at Romeow Cat Bistrot in Ostiense.

“It’s not just a vegan restaurant—it’s an experience. The resident cats roam freely and make the vibe relaxed and cozy. The dishes are gourmet, creative, and beautifully plated. Yes, it’s a bit on the pricey side, but totally worth it for a special vegan dinner in Rome.”

A black cat reaches out its paw from a ledge toward a person's hand against a bright, sunlit background, conveying curiosity and playfulness.

From low-key bars to elegant restaurants in Rome, every corner holds a surprise for those who know where to look. Join the Slack channel vegan-vegetarian-eco-sustainability for local tips, plant-based community events, and new finds.

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