Update, May 2018: Since writing this review the Hidden Olive has unfortunately closed.

We really don’t go to Plymouth all that often. It’s usually once in two years rather than twice in one. My Mum came to visit recently and as we got to talking about breakfast places the Hidden Olive came up. We met up for a bit of Barbican fun with her and her partner. They ordered meaty breakfasts and admired the gin selection while I ordered my Big Vegan. A respectable offering. Two sausages, courgette ribbons, garlic mushrooms, fancy baked beans, potatoes and toast with avocado butter. The potatoes were especially delicious.

After I said goodbye to Mum I popped in to Samphire for what was supposed to be a quick take away to get on the train with. Samphire is a 100% vegan fast food joint. I have no will power. I ended up eating in. So what did I order? Meatball Mania. Four of the meatiest meatballs I’ve ever had draped in tomato sauce with just the right amount of pesto and mozzarella. On a pretzel bun. My mouth is still watering. Ten out of ten. I’d eat here all the time but I don’t think I could’ve persuaded my Mum to try anything.

As I finally got on the train home it was both with a full stomach and a full shopping bag. I popped into Ethica, Plymouth’s vegan shop, to buy some of the mock meats and cheeses that you can’t find in Torquay. I’m aware that this post makes it look like I eat nothing but meat substitutes but you have to remember that this haul kept us going for at least… well it’s probably best not to say. I will say though that Ethica sells a fab range of staple and harder to find vegan foods along side cleaning products and toiletries. We may end up in Plymouth more often.