Their sister company, Pulse, has just opened up a new takeaway stand on London Bridge, but Arabica keeps the vegetarian foodies coming back to Borough Market.

The Venue
Parked right in the middle of Borough Market’s Green Market, Arabica dishes up hot and fresh Middle Eastern-style vegetarian food that’s both health conscious and filling. Although the decor isn’t much to look at, Borough Market has an unbeatable atmosphere that foodies are guaranteed to go crazy over. Be sure to come hungry, as you might not be able to stop yourself from snacking your way to your destination.

The Atmosphere
Like the rest of the market, Arabica’s stands are packed with food fanatics looking for an alternative to usual fast takeaway lunch options. If you manage to be quick enough you can snag a nearby table, although for most it’s grab and go. Service is undeniably fast and friendly and although the veg-friendly crowd has to pass other stalls to get to their destination, you can tell they only have eyes for Arabica.

The Food
If you’re expecting a three course meal you’re in the wrong place, although if you want fast, filling and delicious vegetarian cuisine you’ve found the right spot. If you’re in the mood for grazing, try a meze box, which offers dips and salads like babaganoush (a creamy, tangy and thick dip of roasted eggplants), butternut squash (slightly sweet with plump sultanas mixed in), couscous (a fluffy mixture of traditional couscous with sweet, dried dates and orange zest sprinkled throughout). Don’t forget the hummus as well, either the flavourful classic version or the juicy, pink-tinged beetroot kind.

What Arabica does best though, without a doubt, is falafel. Where most places fall far short (too dry, too stodgy, too greasy), this falafel is some of the best you’ll eat in the capital. Crisp on the outside – no grease to be found – and delightfully warm and thick on the inside. It’s terribly simple, with just mashed chickpeas, onions, herbs and spices, but then again there’s no unnecessary ingredients either. There are also variations on the classic, with cheese and thyme, crunchy pickle and aubergine versions. Everything’s quite cheap as well, with most dishes coming in at under £4.00.

The Drink
Not exactly a place for a bottle of wine or a slug of whisky, but what there is is a variety of juices and teas. The mint iced tea is a bit too sweet, but still refreshing, and the yoghurt lassi is thick and flavoured with vanilla. Other options include hibiscus juice, lemonade and breakfast smoothies.

The Last Word
Cheap fast food that’s good for you and tastes better than you can imagine. Here’s hoping Arabica and Pulse spread out across the capital.

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