Ethical eating in Parktown North

The Pudding Shop, named after an old hippie hang-out in Istanbul, presents an image of veganism a far cry from the tasteless soya concoctions of popular imagination.

“I have a passion for veganism, for ethical food that tastes good. The principles of fine dining and good service are important, but we don’t dress up here. This is a comfortable space,” said Gusson.

Gusson, who eschews the title of chef or cook, said he has been “100 percent” vegan for three years.

“I went through phases. I spent three years playing around with vegetarianism and veganism before committing to it. I did it for personal growth and out of my love for animals,” he said.

His decision did take some getting used to, and among the challenges were the prevalence of animal products like gelatin in various foods.

“There were days I missed the taste of meat, but I did grow out of it. It’s a lifestyle, not just a diet,” said Gusson.

For those who wish to become vegan or vegetarian, Gusson suggested they gradually introduce it.

“Try it for a few days a week, especially on days when you’re less pressured with work and have the time to experiment in the kitchen. Do what’s comfortable for your body,” he said.

The restaurant’s menu was a testament to just how creative vegans could be in the kitchen.

“Our most popular dishes thus far are the avocado and red bean burgers, the egg-free potato bread, and the blueberry and orange cake,” he said.

The restaurant is run in conjunction with restaurant-next-door La Cucina di Ciro, owned by co-owner Molinaro’s husband.

“That way, if someone wants to add meat to one of our dishes, we are able to accommodate them. The meat would be prepared next door, as we don’t use any meat in our kitchen,” she said.

Molinaro said the name ‘The Pudding Shop’ stuck with her after she visited Istanbul, Turkey, in the 1970s.

“It was a cafe popular with people travelling from Europe to the East. People would stop in for a hot meal, and would write messages on the walls. I knew I wanted this space to be a meeting place for people, relaxed and informal,” she said.

Details: 061-444-3493; lacucina@iburst.co.za