If you have ever wondered what on earth vegan eggs are like, I can provide an answer.
Barleys Vegan Deli, a sandwich shop, deli, and trendy eating out spot in Newland Avenue, has expanded on its popularity with a brunch menu in recent months. As a deli, it makes its own vegan ‘meats’ and ‘cheeses’, which is truly unique for the city.
Hull Live first visited Barleys Vegan Deli when it opened in 2020, with our meat-eating reporter rating it five stars out of five. In 2023, owner Ella told us the Barleys’ philosophy was about providing “good food that just so happens to be vegan”.
As an east Huller, I do not visit Newland Avenue half so often as when I was a student, so I was not familiar with the Barleys offering. But after running out of sad instant noodle lunches on Wednesday, I decided to satisfy my curiosity.
For a late afternoon midweek, Barleys was absolutely heaving, which I took to be a good sign. The indoor and outdoor areas were pleasant and I easily found a cosy corner to ensconce myself into.
(Image: Hull Live)
To start with, I went for a flat white coffee. From the first sip, it was evident these were some quality coffee beans, not in the slightest bit bitter, but still beautifully robust.
I also nibbled on a vegan sausage roll which had a lovely tangy but subtle lift from mustard seeds.
For the main event I, of course, went for the vegan eggs. As described on the menu, these were made from tofu rather than anything coming out of a chicken.
I first tried tofu as a child when it was served up to me by – of all people – my carnivorous big brother who had embarked on an inexplicable health kick involving daily gym sessions, green smoothies, and, as mentioned, this curious white block of low-fat protein known as tofu.
Because of this, I am rather used to the undeniably bean-like flavour of tofu, but I can understand it not being to everybody’s taste and perhaps the much ‘meatier’ seitan – which Barleys makes in house – is more of a crowd-pleaser.
My first bite was surprisingly buttery, which was pleasant. I also got hints of curry flavours such as turmeric and an undeniably ‘eggy’ aroma.
It was served on superb local sourdough which was nice and fresh while having a satisfying bit of chew.
On the side were some of the loveliest tomatoes I have eaten in this country. Each bite was sweet as nectar, and I only wished there was the option to order them by the bowlful.
While the food was very nice, I think I would like to explore more of the menu and when I return I will definitely try the creamy Caesar dressing made with cashew nuts which sounds deeply appealing, as well as their homemade vegan meat substitutes made from seitan, such as lamb-style koftas.
It would be remiss not to add there were numerous gluten-free food options and there was also an alcoholic drinks menu with red, white, and sparking wines, beers, ciders, mimosa, sangria, and a few alcohol-free lagers and ciders.