Vegan Wedding Menu: 30 Dishes That Will Impress Every Guest

Planning a vegan wedding menu shouldn’t mean compromising on elegance, variety, or guest satisfaction. After catering hundreds of Toronto weddings with entirely plant-based menus, we’ve learned one crucial truth: when vegan food is done right, nobody misses the animal products.

The challenge isn’t creating delicious vegan dishes—it’s crafting a cohesive menu that feels special, sophisticated, and appropriate for a wedding celebration. Your guests should feel they’re experiencing something extraordinary, not settling for a “vegan version” of traditional wedding fare.

This guide shares 30 dishes we’ve personally served at Toronto weddings, from intimate 50-person gatherings at The Gladstone House to 200-guest celebrations at The Fermenting Cellar. Each dish has been tested in real wedding conditions, refined based on guest feedback, and proven to impress even the most skeptical omnivores.

Understanding Your Vegan Wedding Menu Goals

Before diving into specific dishes, consider what makes a wedding menu successful. Your vegan wedding menu should accomplish three things:

Create a memorable culinary experience. Wedding food should be a highlight guests talk about long after the event. Plant-based cuisine offers unique flavors and presentations that stand out from conventional wedding menus everyone has seen before.

Accommodate diverse dietary needs naturally. A well-designed vegan menu is already dairy-free, egg-free, and meat-free, making it inherently inclusive for guests with those restrictions. With thoughtful ingredient selection, you can also ensure many dishes are gluten-free or nut-free.

Reflect your values without feeling preachy. Your menu is a natural expression of your commitment to sustainability and compassion. When the food is exceptional, it speaks for itself—no explanations or justifications needed.

How to Structure Your Vegan Wedding Menu

Most Toronto weddings follow a familiar structure: cocktail hour appetizers, plated dinner or buffet, and dessert. For vegan weddings, we recommend the following approach:

Cocktail hour (60-90 minutes): 5-8 passed appetizers, plus stationed items like a grazing station. This gives guests substantial food during what’s often the longest wait of the evening.

Dinner service: Either a plated three-course meal (starter, main, dessert) or an elevated buffet with 3-4 mains, multiple sides, and salads. Plated service feels more formal; buffets offer variety and accommodate different preferences.

Dessert: Beyond the wedding cake, consider a dessert station or late-night snack service. This is especially appreciated at longer receptions.

10 Cocktail Hour Appetizers That Disappear Fast

Baguette Canapes Collection

1. Wild Mushrooms with Pesto Canape Sauteed wild mushrooms nestled on crispy sourdough baguette rounds with house-made basil pesto. The earthy, umami-rich combination reads as sophisticated and French-inspired, disappearing from trays within minutes (NF).

2. Nonno’s Ham with Cashew Cream Cheese Canape Our signature plant-based ham crafted from traditional Italian methods, paired with smooth cashew cream cheese on toasted baguette. Guests consistently ask how this can possibly be vegan.

3. Turmeric Hummus with Jackfruit and Sprouts Canape Golden turmeric-spiced hummus topped with marinated jackfruit and fresh microsprouts, creating a beautiful visual presentation with complex, layered flavors (NF).

4. Carrot Lox with Dill and Cream Cheese Canape Paper-thin ribbons of smoked carrot—marinated in nori and liquid smoke—draped over baguette with cashew cream cheese, capers, and fresh dill. This dish consistently surprises guests with how closely it mimics traditional smoked salmon appetizers.

5. Pink Hummus with Feta and Arugula Canape Vibrant beetroot hummus topped with crumbled vegan feta and peppery arugula, creating a stunning pink-and-green color contrast that photographs beautifully.

Skewer Collection

6. Beyond Meatballs with Pickled Onion Skewers Perfectly seasoned Beyond Meat meatballs glazed with our signature sauce, paired with tangy pickled red onion. These hearty bites satisfy guests looking for substantial protein options (GF, NF).

7. Smoked Tofu and Roasted Vegetable Skewers Miso-marinated smoked tofu cubes alternating with colorful roasted vegetables and cherry tomatoes, glazed with a light teriyaki reduction (GF, NF).

8. Mini Vegan Caprese Skewers Cherry tomatoes, house-made mozzarella, and fresh basil leaves drizzled with aged balsamic reduction—a fresh, light option that offers familiar Italian flavors.

Specialty Appetizers

9. Stuffed Mushrooms Trio Button mushroom caps filled with three different preparations: Sun-Dried Tomato and Walnut Pesto, creamy Spinach and Artichoke, and rich Garlic Cashew Cream and Herb. Served warm, these deliver comfort food appeal in an elegant package.

10. Vegan Inari Trio An elegant Japanese-inspired selection featuring Kimchi Inari with sesame and green onion, Vegan Tuna Caviar Inari with soy-based filling and chia caviar, and Seaweed Salad Inari with smoked tofu. This sophisticated option adds international flair.

Grazing Station: The Cocktail Hour Centerpiece

Beyond passed appetizers, a beautiful grazing station creates a focal point for socializing:

Plant-Based Charcuterie Board A stunning display featuring artisanal plant-based cheeses, plant-based deli meats, pickled vegetables, assorted crackers, fresh and dried fruit, marinated olives, and roasted nuts. This station invites guests to graze and socialize while showcasing that plant-based charcuterie has come remarkably far.

Skewer Station An array of our signature skewers: Smoked tofu with roasted vegetables, Beyond Meatballs with pickled onion, and roasted vegetables with smoked cheese—all arranged for guests to help themselves.

8 Main Course Options for Plated or Buffet Service

Signature Plated Entrees

11. Wild Mushroom Risotto A show-stopping centerpiece: creamy arborio rice slow-cooked with a medley of wild mushrooms, finished with cashew cream and topped with sauteed rapini and crispy shallots. The rich, earthy flavors and elegant presentation make this our most requested wedding main.

12. Eggplant Parmesan Layers of breaded and pan-fried eggplant with house-made marinara, melted vegan mozzarella, and fresh basil pesto, finished with cashew parmesan and served with a fresh side salad. Familiar Italian comfort with elegant execution.

13. King Oyster Carpaccio Miso-marinated king oyster mushrooms sliced paper-thin and arranged artfully, topped with microgreens, toasted seeds, and a light citrus dressing. This sophisticated starter showcases the incredible versatility of mushrooms.

14. Creamy Stroganoff Rich cashew-mushroom sauce with tender Beyond Meat and fresh asparagus, served over egg-free noodles. The creamy, savory flavors deliver the comfort and indulgence guests expect from a wedding meal.

15. New School Salmon Our innovative plant-based salmon preparation featuring creamy spinach and herb-roasted potatoes. The presentation mimics a traditional fish entree, making it accessible to guests accustomed to conventional wedding fare.

Buffet-Style Mains

16. Jackfruit Shawarma Slow-cooked jackfruit with Middle Eastern spices, served with fluffy quinoa, marinated chickpeas, creamy tahini sauce, and turmeric hummus. The aromatic spices and satisfying textures make this a buffet favorite (GF, NF).

17. Pesto Garlic Mushroom Gnocchi Pillowy potato gnocchi tossed with house-made basil pesto, sauteed zucchini, toasted garlic, pickled red peppers, and wild mushrooms. Elegant Italian comfort that appeals to virtually every palate (GF, NF).

18. Smokey Mac and Cheese Our signature cashew cheese sauce with a hint of smokiness, topped with crispy plant-based bacon bits and tender broccoli. This elevated comfort food is consistently one of the most popular buffet options.

19. Sweet Potato Chickpea Curry A warming, mildly spiced curry with tender sweet potato, protein-rich chickpeas, and vibrant greens, served over fragrant basmati rice. The golden color and aromatic spices add visual and sensory appeal (GF, NF).

20. Manchurian Tofu with Bok Choy Crispy tofu in a sweet and tangy Manchurian sauce, served with tender bok choy and jasmine rice. This Indo-Chinese fusion dish offers bold flavors that stand out on any buffet (GF, NF).

5 Salads and Sides That Complete the Menu

21. Caesar Salad Crisp romaine lettuce with our house-made creamy Caesar dressing, roasted chickpea croutons, and plant-based bacon bits. A classic elevated with unexpected textures (GF, NF).

22. Greek Salad Fresh lettuce, kalamata olives, cucumber, tomatoes, and crumbled vegan feta dressed with extra virgin olive oil and oregano. Simple, bright, and universally appealing (GF, NF).

23. Buddha Bowl A colorful arrangement of quinoa, mixed greens, roasted vegetables, edamame, chickpeas, and house-made mango dressing. Nutritious, beautiful, and satisfying (GF, NF).

24. Kimchi Fried Rice A Korean-inspired side featuring seasoned rice with fermented kimchi, vegetables, and a perfect balance of savory and tangy flavors (GF, NF).

25. Marinated Vegetables Seasonal vegetables roasted and marinated in herbs and olive oil, served at room temperature. A simple, elegant addition that complements any main course (GF, NF).

5 Desserts Beyond the Wedding Cake

26. Almond Pumpkin Brownies with Sea Salt Caramel Ice Cream Dense, fudgy brownies infused with pumpkin spice and almond, topped with house-made sea salt caramel ice cream. This show-stopping dessert consistently earns audible reactions from guests.

27. Carrot Cake Moist, spiced carrot cake layered with smooth cream cheese frosting, topped with toasted walnuts and a delicate carrot decoration. A classic crowd-pleaser.

28. Peanut Butter Banana Brownies Rich chocolate brownies with swirls of peanut butter and fresh banana, served in individual portions. The combination of flavors creates an irresistible treat (GF).

29. Nanaimo Bars A Canadian classic: chocolate-coconut base, creamy custard middle, and rich chocolate top. These iconic treats are always a hit, especially with local Toronto guests (GF, NF).

30. Poached Apples with Walnuts and Vanilla Syrup Tender apples poached in spiced vanilla syrup, topped with toasted walnuts. An elegant, lighter dessert option that showcases seasonal fruit beautifully.

Late Night Station: Keep the Party Going

For longer receptions, a late-night food station keeps energy high:

Small Grilled Cheese Artisan brie and cheddar melted on sourdough with garlic butter, served with house-made sour cherry jam. Pure comfort food for late-night dancing fuel.

Beyond Meat Sliders Mini sliders with roasted pepper spread, chipotle mayo, and fresh arugula. Substantial, satisfying, and perfect for hungry dancers.

Mac and Cheese Cups Individual portions of our signature smokey mac with cashew cheese sauce and crispy bacon bits. Late-night comfort at its finest.

Building Your Personalized Vegan Wedding Menu

These 30 dishes provide a foundation, but your wedding menu should reflect your personal tastes, wedding style, and the season. Here’s how to approach menu selection:

Consider your venue and season. Outdoor summer weddings call for lighter fare—think fresh canapes, grilled vegetables, and fruit desserts. Winter weddings in traditional venues can handle richer dishes like risotto, creamy pastas, and chocolate desserts.

Balance familiar and adventurous. Include dishes that feel recognizable (pasta, roasted vegetables, chocolate dessert) alongside more creative options like our Vegan Inari Trio or King Oyster Carpaccio. This ensures every guest finds something comfortable while showcasing plant-based innovation.

Think about your guest list. A wedding with many international guests might lean into globally-inspired dishes like Jackfruit Shawarma or Manchurian Tofu. A guest list of mostly Toronto locals might appreciate Ontario-sourced seasonal ingredients.

Account for dietary restrictions beyond vegan. Many of our dishes are naturally gluten-free (marked GF) or nut-free (marked NF), making accommodations straightforward.

Working with Your Toronto Wedding Caterer

Whether you’re working with a specialized vegan wedding caterer or a traditional caterer willing to create a plant-based menu, communication is essential. Share this list as a starting point for conversations, but also discuss:

Tasting sessions: Never commit to a full menu without tasting. We offer tasting appointments where you sample proposed dishes and provide feedback.

Presentation and plating: How will dishes be presented? Ask to see photos from previous events. Beautiful plating elevates even simple dishes.

Service style: Does their service style (plated, family-style, buffet) align with your vision? Each approach creates a different guest experience.

Flexibility: Can they accommodate last-minute guest count changes or dietary requests? Wedding planning always involves some unknowns.

Real Toronto Wedding Menu Examples

To help visualize complete menus, here are three different approaches we’ve executed for Toronto couples:

Elegant Fall Wedding (150 guests, The Fermenting Cellar):

• Cocktail hour: Stuffed mushrooms trio, Beyond Meatballs skewers, charcuterie grazing station
• Plated dinner: King Oyster Carpaccio starter, Wild Mushroom Risotto, seasonal vegetables
• Dessert: Wedding cake plus Almond Pumpkin Brownies with Sea Salt Caramel Ice Cream

Casual Summer Wedding (80 guests, outdoor venue):

• Cocktail hour: Vegan Inari Trio, vegetable crudite, baguette canapes selection
• Buffet: Jackfruit Shawarma, Buddha Bowl, Greek Salad, Marinated Vegetables
• Dessert: Wedding cake plus Nanaimo Bars and fresh fruit

Intimate Winter Wedding (50 guests, private venue):

• Cocktail hour: Carrot lox canapes, mushroom pesto canapes, cheese board
• Plated dinner: Creamy Stroganoff, Caesar Salad, roasted root vegetables
• Dessert: Wedding cake plus Peanut Butter Banana Brownies

Why Vegan Wedding Menus Are Growing in Toronto

The Toronto wedding scene has evolved significantly in the past five years. We’ve catered vegan weddings for couples across the spectrum—lifelong vegans, recently plant-based couples, and omnivores choosing vegan menus for environmental or ethical reasons.

The common thread? They all wanted exceptional food that happened to be vegan, not “vegan food” as a separate category. When menus are designed with that philosophy, the results speak for themselves. We regularly hear from couples that their wedding food was the most frequent compliment they received—higher than venue, flowers, or music.

The secret isn’t complicated: fresh ingredients, skilled preparation, thoughtful seasoning, and beautiful presentation. The same principles that make any wedding menu successful apply equally to vegan menus.

Your Next Steps

Creating your vegan wedding menu starts with vision, not limitation. Use this list as inspiration, but don’t feel constrained by it. The best wedding menus reflect the couple’s personality, whether that means comfort food classics, international flavors, or avant-garde presentations.

If you’re planning a vegan wedding in Toronto, we’d love to discuss your vision and create a customized menu that reflects your style. Get a quote for your wedding and let’s start planning a menu your guests will remember long after the last dance.

Your vegan wedding menu can be the highlight of your celebration—sophisticated, memorable, and delicious enough that nobody gives a second thought to what’s missing. That’s the sign of a truly successful plant-based wedding menu.