Whalley Range vegetarian restaurant named ‘one of best in world’

Manchester is jam-packed with amazing places to try vegetarian or vegan meals.

The Walled Gardens, nestled in the heart of Whalley Range, has secured a prominent spot on the world stage by ranking 84th in the prestigious We’re Smart Green Guide’s list of the Best 100 Vegetable restaurants in 2023.

This accolade also saw The Walled Gardens rise to the sixth position in the guide’s Top 10 UK vegetarian restaurants.

This culinary movement is not limited to The Walled Gardens, as Manchester sees a surge in vegetarian and vegan options, marking a shift in culinary attitudes.

A Paradigm Shift in Dining Preferences?

In a world where the love for vegetables is flourishing, restaurants like The Walled Gardens are leading the charge.

This unique, vegetable-focused establishment defies conventional restaurant norms. With a seating capacity of just eight diners within founder and head chef Eddie Shepherd’s own home, it offers an intimate and personalized dining experience.

What sets The Walled Gardens apart is not only its vegetarian menu but also its exclusivity, with a six-month reservation waiting list due to its soaring popularity.

Chef Eddie Shepherd, who recently received the title of Manchester’s Chef of the Year, expressed his delight at the recognition, stating:

“Really happy to be at number 6 in the Green Guild’s UK top 10 restaurants. Lots of Michelin stars and great restaurants on that list!

“I’ve had a great time in Brussels for the awards and also thrilled to be listed as number 84 in the guild’s world 100 best restaurants, nestled between 2 & 3 Michelin star places.

“It’s great to see the world’s best restaurants on that list representing the movement towards more plant-focused menus.”

Eddie Shepherd: The Creative Force Behind The Walled Gardens

Eddie Shepherd, the mastermind behind The Walled Gardens, boasts nearly two decades of culinary expertise.

His journey from Marple, where he grew up alongside renowned chef Samuel Buckley of Where The Light Gets In, to global destinations like Mexico, Greece, and Athens, has been a testament to his innovative, plant-based culinary approach.

The restaurant’s modern, plant-based menu offers a 12-course tasting experience in a relaxed and vibrant ambience, earning accolades such as a spot in Observer’s Food Monthly’s 20 Best Restaurants.

The Allotment Vegan Eatery: Manchester’s Vegan Culinary Gem

The rise of vegetarian and vegan dining in Manchester extends beyond The Walled Gardens.

The Allotment Vegan Eatery, overlooking Manchester Cathedral, made its mark by securing the 28th position in the 50 Best Vegan Restaurants in the World for 2023, curated by global travel site Big 7 Travel.

This unassuming yet extraordinary venue, championing freshness, community engagement, and locally sourced ingredients, has established itself as a haven for those seeking a divine and sustainable vegan dining experience.

Sharing the news on his Instagram page, the renowned chef, who was recently named Manchester’s chef of the year, said he was “really happy” and “thrilled” to have his unique restaurant concept recognised.

So, what do you think? Will you be joining that huge waiting list?

Looking at some of the amazing dishes on offer, we certainly will!