Union Café Ramsgate: Best Spot for Vegans, Vibes & Yoga
December 5, 2024
If you’re wandering through Ramsgate and fancy a cozy spot for great food, exceptional coffee, and perhaps a bit of self-care, Union Café should be at the top of your list. It’s more than just a café—it’s a welcoming community hub where wholesome, plant-based dishes (mostly vegetarian and a few vegan) and yoga sessions come together seamlessly. Whether you’re a dedicated vegan, a coffee enthusiast, or a yoga newbie, look to Union Café Ramsgate: Best Spot for Vegans, Vibes & Yoga. As a luxury wedding photographer based in Ramsgate, I want to show off this lovely café to you!
A Welcoming Start in Ramsgate
When my family and I moved to Ramsgate in June, we had high hopes of finding a local café to match the indie gems we’d loved in Cambridge. Back there, we had places like Scotts Pizza and Kibou (I even photographed some engagement shoots in there!), but Ramsgate was uncharted territory. Just down the road from St. George’s Church, where my wife works as a curate, we stumbled upon Union Café—a game-changer for our vegan family.
This isn’t just any café; Union Café Ramsgate: Best Spot for Vegans, Vibes & Yoga. It’s right in the heart of Ramsgate’s high street, just a stones (long) throw from the sea. The vibe? Warm, modern, and friendly. It’s the kind of place where you feel instantly at home, whether you’re juggling life as a parent, catching up with a friend, or simply seeking a moment to yourself. I find myself coming here on dates with my son or catching up on wedding enquiries.
Food That Feeds the Soul
As a vegan, finding a menu where every sweet treat aligns with your dietary choices is a dream. At Union Café, it’s reality. Go into any local bakery and you will be hard pushed to find anything on their counter that’s vegan or dairy free. But from the moment you step into Union, the menu is a celebration of sustainable, seasonal ingredients. On my visit, I was spoiled for choice.
The highlights? Chocolate cookie & ginger cake (see the pictures).
Beyond that, they serve a variety of fresh, hearty lunch choices. Their drinks are equally creative, all able to be served with oat milk if you’re in the vegan squad. I recommend their coffee, even the decaf—it’s hands-down the best I’ve had in Kent so far.
For brunch enthusiasts, this is your spot. Think avocado toast with a twist, soups, veggies on toast or hearty breakfast plates that are as nutritious as they are delicious. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply a fan of wholesome food, the café doesn’t disappoint.
A Café That’s About More Than Food
Union Café isn’t just about what’s on your plate; it’s about how it feels. You can guess what a Nero or Costa will feel like and there’s nothing wrong with those cafés but Union is independent and unique. The space itself is light, bright, and just feels right. I would definitely take a local couple here for their pre-wedding consultation. There’s something special about being in a place where parents are sipping coffee while babies are giggling nearby, and someone else is quietly typing away on their laptop. It’s a beautiful mix of calm and community.
One thing that sets Union apart is its connection to wellness. The café is home to a fully equipped yoga studio offering classes for everyone—from complete beginners to seasoned practitioners. Whether you want to ease into yoga with a parent-and-baby class or push your limits with a more advanced session, there’s something here for you.
The dual purpose of the space has created a community: you can head to a yoga class, then refuel with a nourishing meal. It’s a holistic experience that leaves you feeling balanced, both physically and mentally. I’m more about weightlifting than I am yoga, but I can appreciate quiet reflection as much as I can.
Why Union Café Feels Different
What struck me most about Union Café was the sense of connection. When I visited with my son, we ended up chatting with the people at the next table—I think I missed this when we were in Cambridge, people kept themselves to themselves generally.
It’s also a place where everyone can belong. Union Café welcomes everyone—dogs, kids, remote workers, and yogis alike. With free Wi-Fi and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to write, work, or unwind. I’ll go with coffees and cakes with my son, please!
A Little About the Area
Union Café’s location is another of its charms. Ramsgate town is full of soulful independent shops and with it’s scenic marina, sandy beaches, and vibrant community it’s a cute town down the road from it’s big sister Margate. Union fits right in, acting as a cornerstone for locals and visitors alike.
Side note, if you’re familiar with the Pop Up Café in Deal, you’ll notice some similarities. Both emphasize fresh, simple cooking and a commitment to sustainability. However, Union Café sets itself apart with its with the added bonus of yoga classes, whereas Pop Up is the boss of bread.
Practical Details
If you’re planning a visit, here’s what you need to know:
- Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. Closed Sundays.
- Location: Union Café, High Street, Ramsgate.
- Instagram: @unionramsgate
Final Thoughts
Union Café is more than just a place to grab a coffee—it’s almost like a sanctuary in the middle of Ramsgate. It’s a space where food, wellness, and community come together effortlessly. Whether you’re popping in for a quick snack, taking a yoga class, or spending a lazy afternoon with a book and a latte, Union has something to offer.
For me and my family, it’s become more than just a café—it’s our favourite place to grab a drink and where I would take a couple to discuss their wedding photography in Kent. If you’re in Ramsgate, do your tummy a favour and visit Union Café.
Plan your visit and join the community—you might even see us there!
