Novapizza is Edinburgh's first all-vegan Italian restaurant, run by a Roman family serving up their own versions of classic dishes. The menu is entirely vegan, with many of the dishes also having a gluten-free version too. The restaurant has a buzz, in part thanks to its unique offering. As such, it's best to book a table to avoid disappointment. Many visitors say it's difficult to believe all the dishes are vegan, given how similar they are to the meat or animal product version.
Sip from the short list of Italian wines, or go for one of the special beers, like the Birra Roma Bionda, which is said to pair perfectly with a Margherita. Alternatively, there is a good selection of spirits, particularly gin, and digestivi like Frangelico and Galliano. Soft drinks are also available for anyone who doesn't drink alcohol.
Since the menu is 100% plant-based, vegans can rejoice in the amount of choice. Start off with classic antipasti like a charcuterie board of meat and cheese, caprese, bruschetta or focaccia, the last two offering a range of toppings. From there, the pasta course offers even more choice, with vegan takes on classics like carbonara, ragu, arrabiata and even salmon penne. Most pasta dishes come with the house walnut parmesan grated on top.
The pizza menu similarly reads as normal, but with each option a vegan take on the original. The pepperoni, ham, bacon, mozzarella et al all substituted with alternatives, most of which are made in house. White pizzas are also available, such as the boscaiola (mushroom, olive, truffle, ham and mozzarella) or the carbonara (bacon egg, parmesan and mozzarella). Diners should be aware that many of the dishes contain nuts due to the alternatives used. Some dishes can be made as a gluten-free version to accommodate those who are intolerant.