wagamama launch 50% plant-based menu

wagamama has become the first high street chain in the UK to make at least half of its menu vegan, so why not book a table at Chantry Place Norwich?

The pan-Asian restaurant has announced a new plant-based menu now serving Spicy Teriyaki Vegan ‘Chicken’ Steamed Buns, Spicy Vegan ‘Short Rib’ Ramen, Teriyaki Vegan ‘Chicken’ Ramen, and Shu’s ‘Shiok’ Jackfruit.

Ahead of the UN’s COP26 climate conference on 1st November, wagamama is urging and incentivising guests to pledge a ‘small choice for big change’ as part of their ‘Plant-Pledge’ campaign which encourages people to eat less meat and dairy. wagamama is also offering free vegan sides until November – to get guests started on their plant-based journey.

Almost 8000 guests have made their pledge, and they are hoping to see an increase when the new menu launches. Global Executive Chef Steve Mangleshot and his team have heroed a new vegan ‘chicken’ alternative which mirrors the taste and texture of pulled chicken in wagamama’s new Spicy Teriyaki Vegan ‘Chicken’ Buns and Teriyaki Vegan ‘Chicken’ Ramen. Other dishes include mushroom and soya ‘short ribs’, while turmeric + ginger roasted jackfruit substitutes chicken in ‘Shu’s Shiok’ – the dish Mangleshot created in collaboration with chef Shu Han Lee.

CEO Thomas Heier told FEMAIL said: “This menu launch marks an important moment for us as a business, as we officially make our menu 50 per cent plant-based. ‘We’ve been making choices, both big and small, to tread more lightly on our earth. We’re privileged to have restaurants in most major UK cities, therefore feel a real responsibility and exciting opportunity to make plant-based food as accessible as possible to all guests no matter their dietary preferences. We feel passionately that plant-based food can be just as nourishing and delicious. We hope our new menu will influence a positive spike in plant-based menu participation from our guests.”

Friends of the Earth have also supported wagamama’s efforts.