Deserted Cactus: The Ultimate Vegan Comfort Food Experience in London

Welcome to Deserted Cactus, a unique vegan dining experience nestled within the vibrant heart of Holdrons Arcade on Rye Lane in London. This charming eatery goes beyond mere sustenance; it embraces the spirit of comfort food, offering a warm embrace with each dish that feels like an invisible hug served on a plate.

The menu reads like a love letter to hearty, soul-soothing eats. Indulge in the Black Bean Sweet Potato Spinach Fried Dumplings, heralded as some of the best by a loyal customer. Or savor the Southern Fried Jackfruit—a standout that has left diners raving about its crispy, flaky texture and robust flavor that redefines vegan cuisine. Pair these delights with Seasoned Cardamon Rice and a generous side of colossal mac n' cheese—crafted in a way that transcends expectations.

What captures me most is the ethos behind the dishes here. Nóra Knopf describes the food as "beautiful, pure soul food," perfectly suited for days that call for a bit of indulgence or comfort. Each meal is not just a culinary creation but a celebration of flavors designed for sharing and enjoying with friends, making it perfect for social gatherings or simply a solo retreat.

The owner of Deserted Cactus radiates warmth, echoing through the generous portion sizes that seriously challenge the common notion of vegan food being light. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, and as Chris Nicol declares, you get “two meals with a regular and three with a large”, which translates into fantastic value for your money.

While some may find it a bit tricky to locate, the journey to Deserted Cactus is more than worth it. With accolades continually pouring in, this hidden gem has quickly climbed its way into London's top food spots. The cozy atmosphere complements the convivial vibe, providing an ideal backdrop for what will surely be a delightful culinary adventure. Whether you're a dedicated vegan or a curious omnivore, don’t miss out on this remarkable dining destination that may just redefine your palate.

So, gather your friends, head on down to 135A Rye Ln, London SE15 4ST, and prepare yourself for a memorable meal that leaves not only your taste buds satisfied but your soul uplifted.

Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
No wheelchair-accessible car park

On-site services available
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery

Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining

Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Nóra Knopf

20/10/2025

Beautiful, pure soul food. Yes, it’s heavy on the carbs bla bla.. let’s be honest, it’s perfect for nibbling while gossiping, for those PMS days, or simply when you need the comfort of an invisible hug served on a plate. Can't wait to be back.

Menelik McHardy

14/10/2025

Bit tricky to find, it’s inside Holdrons Arcade on Rye Lane. Incredible scran. Haven’t had food like this in years. Best dumplings I’ve ever had in my life. Caribbean vegan food with other innovations.Top.

Dino Crodino

28/09/2025

I had the best battered jackfruit in London on a massive plate of other delicacies such as rice, mac’n’cheese, fava bean and lentil stew and the softest and most scrumptious bun - which tasted like a brioche - in the capital. Highly recommended! Also the atmosphere is very cosy and convivial.

Chris Nicol

05/09/2025

This in my top 5 places to eat in London. The food is delicious, the portions are extravagant and the service exquisite. You basically get two meals with a regular and three with a large. For £16 and £18 respectively it’s more than value for money it’s the best deal in London. I want everyone in the world to be able to experience Deserted Cactus. For vegan this is a must and if you’re not vegan don’t be silly this is just great food regardless so don’t miss out.

Prarthana Krishnan

07/08/2025

This is easily one of the best food spots in London! 100% vegan, which makes it even better. I wish it was open every day and accessible via Uber Eats or Deliveroo. The owner is so lovely and the flavour of her food reflects it. The portion size is incredible - to find vegan food that offers such amazing value is sadly rare. Everything is fresh. I got the regular size meal, which came with mac and “cheese”, chickpea curry (so delicious!) and rice, fried coated jackfruit, and salad + coleslaw. This is easily the best fried jackfruit I’ve had! It was crispy, flaky and delicious. It stayed crispy when I reheated the leftovers in the oven. I enjoyed the sunny weekend by having this in the park - it was just perfect! You’ll most probably have some leftovers because the portion size is v good.

Morgan J

01/08/2025

Insanely delicious!!! Both for vegans and non-vegans! We shared a large set menu between the 2 of us and were both extremely satisfied. The southern fried jackfruit reminded me of fried chicken in the American South. Even the dumplings/rolls were homemade. Highly recommend! Entrance via the Arcade, then walk down the hallway towards the back.

Julia Schafer

24/07/2025

lovely people and amazing food! the southern fried jackfruit is the best jackfruit I have ever had! everything else was super tasty too. wholesome homecooking vibes. 100% recommend for all vegans in the area (and beyond). apologies for the photo of beige pile a tray - we picked stuff up during opening times (1pm-4pm Thurs and Sat) and reheated to have for dinner.

Jasmine Asghar

14/07/2025

Deserted Cactus is 100% & for real my favourite food spot ever. The menu is completely vegan and so delicious! I have been back many times now; and the food quality, portion size and taste are always 10/10. Esme, the owner, is gorgeous. She is kind, talented and genuinely cares about delivering tasty food to her customers. The food, vibes, and service are perfect, and I will continue to come back always! Xx