Paris By Vegan: One Famous Instagrammer Gives Her Tips
With almost 75,000 Instagram followers, the Paris by Vegan account shows the growing popularity of veganism and alternative diets in Paris. Noémie, the blogger behind the account, not only presents an Instagram feed full of delicious vegan meals, but also gives tips on how to be a vegan in the city of Paris.
How did your vegan journey start? What inspired/influenced you to become vegan?
I switched from a vegetarian to a vegan lifestyle about one year and a half ago, when I saw the "Cowspiracy" documentary. It is such a life changer. Then I began to educate myself with more documentaries and books, and it was obvious to me that I had to begin this lifestyle, for ethical and environmental reasons.
How did you start your Instagram account, Parisbyvegan?
I was looking for a way to motivate myself to be creative in the food that I cooked everyday. I found this great community on Instagram! I was thinking: "Hey, that's what I want to do!"
What is your inspiration behind your account?
My goal was to show that vegan food can look as good as any food, so I'm happy that people can see that. Lots of people think that when you're vegan that you just eat salads. I can understand that, because at first, when I was transitioning, I wasn't sure how to get the balance in my diet, but then I followed my instincts and stuck to what I loved to eat (just making it vegan). Once you get the idea that you can do your usual meal in a vegan way it becomes a fun challenge and practically everything is possible: pancakes, purees, fries, gyoza, burgers, and even mozzarella!
When was the moment when you realized that your Instagram account was really taking off?
When I was entering some competitions and people that I admired shared my account. Also, the official Instagram account shared my post! It was pretty big!
What has been some challenges you have faced being vegan? Especially in Paris?
I'd say I've been pretty blessed so far, at first it was a bit hectic, but it wasn't really about Paris. It was about finding right things for me to eat and places to shop.
How do you think a vegan diet is received here in Paris?
Being a Parisian since my birth, I've seen a lot of change in the scenery. Every day, vegan restaurants open, well-known chefs add a vegan dish on their menus, and mainstream food and health magazines talk about it and share recipes. There is also a great active community on social platforms. So yeah, it's pretty exciting!
Where are you favorite vegan places to go to in Paris?
I love Un Monde Vegan, the grocery shop that has tons of awesome vegan cheese like Jay and Joy, vegan ice cream, vegan whipped cream, vegan everything! I also live near Le Marché d'Aligre, its open everyday except Monday and it's super cheap. My favorite restaurants are Dune, Hobbes, Soya, East Side Burger, Hank, Le Potager du Marais, and I treat myself weekly with Las Vegans ice cream.
What are your tips for being vegan in Paris?
Don't stress, you can always ask nicely at restaurants for vegan-styled meals. I do that every time and I've never had a bad experience. Explore the vegan shops and restaurants because there are so many right now. Try to connect with other vegans through social media or even with me! I'd be happy to help!
How is the vegan community in Paris? How does it compare to the Instagram vegan community?
So helpful! They always advice you when you ask on a forum and people are very compassionate and happy to help you. It's very uplifting. Compared to Instagram, it's kind of the same energy, except, well...there are a lot more people on Instagram!
Any big things for the future (that you don't mind sharing)?
Yes! Im working on an ebook, there will be tons of tips and addresses in Paris. Not to mention about 60+ recipes!
Where can people learn more about you and keep up with you?
They can go to my instagram page, Parisbyvegan!