Ah, the Christmas season—the time for enchanting markets, frosty walks, and, of course, delectable vegan treats. My recent vegan adventures led me to three countries in just five days, with Basel unexpectedly stealing the spotlight. Originally a pitstop on the way to Strasbourg, Basel became the heartwarming surprise of my journey, all thanks to the city's irresistible holiday charm, and of course, the delicious vegan food.
Basel's Vegan Must Eats:
Lauch: Local flavors transformed into fine dining magic at Lauch. This vegetarian/vegan gem in Basel not only satisfied my taste buds but also turned my birthday dinner into a memory I'll forever cherish. I was so impressed with the way Lauch took the local flavours- potatoes, sauerkraut, beets, mustard seed- and gave them a fine dining twist. Elegant yet cozy, Lauch is a must for a special occasion or just to treat yourself.
Tibits: The buffet-style haven that had me piling my plate with vegan spaetzle, pickled green beans, and creamy artichoke quiche. The Christmas season brought a delightful surprise—vegan fondue! Just remember to time it right, as they serve this cheesy delight during specific evening hours.
Bakery Bakery: If you're like me and plan on using Basel as your homebase while you take the train for day trips, don't miss out on BakeryBakery in the SBB train station. From mouthwatering pain au chocolat to mannele, it's the perfect spot to fuel up before your adventures.
Cafe Frühling: Start your Basel mornings right at Cafe Freuhling with an oat milk latte and a heavenly vegan cinnamon bun. The warm atmosphere and a variety of vegan pastries make it a personal favorite.
Vegetario (Christmas Market Special): For festive vegan delights, head straight to Vegetario at the Basel Christmas market. That bright green food walking from Munsterplatz to Barfuesserplatz is a treasure trove for vegan schnitzel. You can also find plenty of vegan options like empanadas and momos at the Adväntsgass im Glaibasel, if that's more your vibe.
Switzerland Foodie Landscape:
Surprisingly, Basel shattered my preconceived notions about Switzerland's dairy-centric cuisine. Every vegan dish I encountered was not just plant-based but a high quality. Basel made it clear to me that they aren't just vegan-friendly, they are vegan-in love (and highly skilled when it comes to vegan food and delicious flavours).
Iconic Dishes in Basel:
Fondue: Basel had me swooning with vegan fondue options at Tibits and even on a charming Rhine River cruise. Kudos to New Roots, the Swiss vegan creamery, for creating cheese so stinky and delicious even my non-vegan partner couldn't resist.
Chocolate: Laderach, a well-known chocolatier, became my go-to for creamy cashew vegan swiss chocolate. Navigating the chocolate wonderland was a breeze with their handy guide to vegan options.
Glühwein and Riesling: Christmas markets in Basel served up glühwein aplenty, and for wine lovers, Basel's local Riesling was a revelation. Sipping a glass at Lauch or Consum near the Christmas Food Mile is an experience not to be missed.
Accommodation Considerations: aka. the Fridge Dilemma
You won't need to worry about your hotel having a fridge to keep snacks in when you go to Basel, unless you're collecting treats (guilty!). Our cozy haven, Hotel Spalentor, went above and beyond with complimentary fresh fruit in the lobby, ensuring I was always fueled for my Basel explorations.
While we're talking about accommodations, I have a few things I must say about Hotel Spalentor, because I am absolutely in love with this hotel. Strategically located near the city center and within easy reach of the train station, it was sensible pricing for the season (we booked in August and stayed in November) it was an irresistible choice. For someone overly cautious about accommodations due to past hotel woes (especially when it comes to cleanliness), Spalentor was a breath of fresh air—a big room that was pristine, and comfortable, with incredibly helpful staff. The added perk of free public transportation across Basel, when you stay at a hotel, was the icing on the cake. Every night, returning to Spalentor felt like coming home, elevating our trip from good to unforgettable.
Overall Vegan-Friendly Rating: 5/5
Basel isn't just vegan-friendly; it's a warm embrace of high-quality vegan goodness. In a country famed for its cheese, Basel stands out as a vegan paradise. From Lauch's fine dining elegance to the festive vibes at Vegetario's Christmas market stand, every bite tells a story of culinary passion. Basel's vegan food scene is not just about what's on the plate; it's a celebration of creativity, community, and the joy of savoring every moment.
Basel's Vegan Food Scene
In Basel, where the Rhine whispers tales of tradition, and the Christmas lights twinkle in harmony, the vegan food scene stands as a testament to the city's warmth and attention to detail. Basel isn't just a destination; it's a haven for those seeking plant-based delights that exceed expectations. As I left Basel, I carry with me not just memories of a Christmas market adventure but a profound appreciation for a city that effortlessly embraces the rich tapestry of vegan flavors. I can’t wait to go back in the spring....when it’s perhaps a bit warmer. It’s a Christmas market adventure that will surely leave me craving vegan fondue for many Christmases to come.