Celebrating the Camden Inspire runners up — Rudy’s Dirty Vegan
On December 6th 2018 at Camden Collective, we celebrated the best of Camden and Euston’s local independent businesses whose every day jobs are to offer a unique service, attract new customers and stand out from the crowd. It’s not easy, but what they do make our towns the special places they are. Running your own business in London means high rents and a hugely competitive market. But every day, these business owners continue to astound us with their commitment, innovation and fresh ideas. Putting it to the public vote, we asked you to show your appreciation. 70 businesses took part this year across 6 categories and we had an amazing 6,000 votes, which we only hope to double next year! We’ve celebrated the winners, but it’s about time that we caught up with the runners up. We’ve already spoken to The Cheese Bar, now it’s time for a spotlight on the wonderful Rudy’s Dirty Vegan Diner. Having only been running a year, we’re so pleased to announce that Rudy’s came second in our ‘Best Newcomer’ category!
We spoke to co-Founder Matthew to find out more:
“Being nominated to participate was an honour and coming second just floored us. It was great to see we have so much support out there!”
Rudy’s Dirty Vegan began out of a striving for the right thing to do, for animals, health and the wellbeing of the planet;
“We chose American style diner food because that’s what we know and love. Ruth is a former American primary school teacher and I, Matthew am a vegan chef. We decided that a diner would be the perfect place to combine our passions: my know-how on all things vegan and Ruth’s first-hand knowledge of diner culture and experience of educating children.”
According to Matthew, their signature dish is one that you can’t get elsewhere: The Reuben. Made from scratch. With a secret recipe. Apparently this has “wowed people over and over, they just can’t believe it’s vegan!” and the seitan pastrami is nearly inseparable.” Sounds delicious!
They’ve managed to create a laidback atmosphere with comfort food that “provides the perfect opportunity to teach people about veganism.” Their open kitchen allows customers to engage with the process, watch their food being prepared and chat to Matthew and Ruth.
So… why did they decide to be based in Camden Market?
“We opened a diner in Camden Market because it is the best location to reach the widest international audience as well as a hub for local Londoners. Camden Market has a hugely international appeal and constant flow of worldwide visitors, particularly as a London hotspot for school trips. We therefore felt it would be a prime location to bring our concept to life to the widest audience of children possible. The Market also already has an established vegan following and we’re excited to see what they think of our food. We’ll be welcoming their feedback and incorporating it into our weekly changing specials menu.”
Watch this space for exciting plans in store for 2019!
Follow Rudy’s Dirty Vegan Diner for updates:
Twitter: @rudysDVD
Instagram: @rudysdvd
