Nestled in the charming seaside town of Albufeira, within the sun-drenched Algarve region, is a delightful vegan Portugal haven that Jon and I stumbled upon during our recent travels. Sugar Rabbit Kaffé, as it’s affectionately known, is not just a restaurant but a celebration of all things plant-based, boasting a menu that tantalizes the taste buds of vegans and non-vegans alike.
Vegan Portugal Brunch
Our adventure at Sugar Rabbit Kaffé began on a warm, sunny morning. The allure of vegan delights drew us in for what we planned as a simple late breakfast but turned into a memorable culinary experience. We kicked off our meal with a classic choice: iced mochas with oat milk. The rich, creamy texture of the oat milk blended perfectly with the robust coffee, providing a refreshing start to our day.
However, the true highlight of our visit was the pancakes. At Sugar Rabbit Kaffé, they take pancakes to an entirely new level with 4 innovative flavours and toppings that are as visually appealing as they are delicious. We opted for two distinct varieties: “no-tella” oreo and toffee apple, and decided to go halves to savour both creations.
The “no-tella” oreo pancakes were a dream come true for any chocolate lover. Topped with fresh strawberries, bananas, a generous dollop of vegan Nutella between each pancake stack, and a scoop of mango sorbet, it was a dish that perfectly balanced rich, chocolatey goodness with the fresh zest of fruit. The mango sorbet added a tropical twist that more refreshing than sickly.
On the other hand, the toffee apple pancakes offered a different but equally delightful taste experience. Garnished with cinnamon, crunchy granola, slices of green apple, toffee caramel, and another scoop of that irresistible mango sorbet, this dish was a masterclass in flavour harmony. It was sweet, but not overwhelmingly so, allowing the natural tartness of the apple and the warmth of the cinnamon to shine through.
While we indulged in our pancakes, we couldn’t help but notice the vibrant atmosphere of the café. Despite being bustling with activity, the staff managed to maintain a friendly and welcoming demeanour, attending to every guest with a smile. Their kindness was particularly evident when I accidentally knocked over my iced mocha as it arrived. Not only did they clean it up swiftly, but they also replaced it free of charge and with a good-natured joke to ‘be careful now’ when the replacement appeared that lightened the moment of embarrassment.
Sitting outside in the Portuguese sunshine, we felt completely at ease. The café’s outdoor seating offered a lovely spot to enjoy our vegan feast while soaking up the lively vibe of Albufeira. It’s clear that Sugar Rabbit Kaffé isn’t just about food; it’s about creating a positive, inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels welcome.
The menu at Sugar Rabbit Kaffé extends beyond pancakes and mochas. From what we could gather from the enthusiastic recommendations of fellow diners, the mimosa is a must-try for a sparkling breakfast experience. Although we didn’t get a chance to try everything on the menu, the quality of what we did have assures us that all offerings are likely to be exceptional.
For those visiting the Algarve and in search of a vegan-friendly dining option, Sugar Rabbit Kaffé is a gem worth exploring. Whether you are a long-time vegan or just someone curious about plant-based cuisine, the café offers a delightful array of choices that will satisfy all palates.
Our visit to Sugar Rabbit Kaffé was not just a meal; it was an experience that highlighted the joy and accessibility of vegan dining. We left with full stomachs and happy hearts, already planning our next visit to this wonderful little spot in Albufeira. If you find yourself in the area, do give this charming café a try – your taste buds will thank you!
You can find more vegan food finds here.
