Escargot, coq au vin, confit de canard… the idea of traditional French cuisine can sometimes turn vegetarians and vegans off from visiting one of the foodie capitals of the world. But Paris can be a plant-based paradise, so long as you know where to look.

A new vanguard of innovative chefs and forward-thinking restaurants have stepped up to ensure this gourmand haven can be enjoyed by all. Writer (and vegetarian) Emmie Harrison-West lets you in on a secret tour of the best veggie and vegan spots that are absolutely not to be missed in Paris. For hundreds more recommendations of the coolest places to visit in Paris, check out Paris Like a Local:

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Only in Paris would you find a vegan brunch spot in a former abattoir – start your day right by conquering Butte Montmartre (the district’s fabled and much-hated hill) to dine at L’abattoir Végétal. Matcha pancakes and homemade granola with non-dairy yoghurt make a more than adequate reward for the climb – paired with a glass of vegan wine, if you’re feeling fruity.

Next, call into VG Pâtisserie for a pastry pit-stop. This gem is proof that taking dairy out of Parisian pastry is neither blaspheme nor plain old impossible. The queen of Parisian vegan pastry, Bérénice Leconte, has mastered the art of plant-based baking, and then some. Choose from creamy mousse cakes, implausibly soft croissants and seasonal crispy tartlets that are beautifully hand-crafted from organic ingredients. It’s surprisingly affordable, too – so it’s no wonder that this spot is a hit with vegan and non-vegan locals alike.

Swing by lunchtime-only spot Cantine Primeur between 12:00 and 14:00 for its organic seasonal cuisine. You’d be forgiven for passing this spot by: it’s understated style and quiet back street location mean it’s a venue you need to know is there to find. After tasting the three-veg lasagne, you’ll understand why locals want to keep this secret under wraps.

Head on over to Season Square for a non-dairy chai latte and phenomenal, super doughy vegan cinnamon bun pit-stop (if there’s any left) and drool over what local devotees dub the best vegan burger they’ve ever had. 

Give your gnashers a break by popping into vegan concept store Aujourd'hui Demain, and sup on a non-dairy shake while you peruse vegan ingredients to whip up your own meat-free meal, as well as vegan clothes and beauty products.

Prepare yourself for a (once unthinkable in Paris) vegan fine-dining experience like no other at Le Potager de Charlotte. Unique fresh and seasonal cooking reigns supreme in this super chic, royal green dining room, with no room for imitations or plain veggie dishes. Simple sounding dishes like the grilled aubergine with tomato sauce, rice and pesto prove a true sensory overload.

If you’re in the mood for a late-night bite, swing by Hank Pizza (or nearby burger joint Hank Burger) for a slice of tasty vegan pizza. Forget everything you know about boring, tasteless non-dairy pizza by tackling a slice of the Dandy - topped with creamy truffle sauce, potatoes, spinach and roasted hazelnuts. You are so welcome.