Whether you want to go out and celebrate at a restaurant or you want to have a lazy evening in, you probably need help finding the best food to eat. Locating tasty food is tricky at the best of times, but if you're vegan, it can be even more of a challenge.
We all know about food apps like Yelp and OpenTable, but wouldn't it be great if there was an app that was specifically suited for vegans? HappyCow is just that app, and it makes finding vegan food nearby genuinely easy. So, what is HappyCow—and what features does it have to offer?
What Is HappyCow?
HappyCow is the perfect sidekick for vegan foodies. It is one of the top free vegan apps, but if you're not strictly vegan, don't stress; HappyCow also helps you find vegetarian meals, health stores, farmer's markets, and lots more. No matter where you are in the world, you can use the HappyCow app to find a mouth-watering meal. So you can use it while you're traveling, too, if you need help finding a vegan-friendly holiday destination.
Besides being a vegan restaurant locator app, you need to know about HappyCow's other key features. There are several notable features of HappyCow, including following other members, chatting on the forum, and adding reviews and photos. With that being said, HappyCow is a fantastic way to connect with other like-minded people and share experiences.
Download: HappyCow for iOS ($3.99) | Android (Free)
How to Use the HappyCow App
Using the HappyCow app is as easy as typing in a location or using your exact location and then tapping Search. Immediately the map shows all the vegan and vegetarian options available within a certain radius. However, you can narrow down your search even further by using a selection of additional filters.
Perhaps you're looking for Asian food, for example; you can filter your search according to the cuisine type. Furthermore, you don't even have to create an account or log in to use the app. Did you know that you can also use HappyCow on your web browser? The website is as easy to use as the app and has pretty much all the same key features.
Explore the World Map
HappyCow reaches across more than 180 different countries, making it effortless to enjoy plant-based food wherever you are or wherever you're going! As previously mentioned, the interactive map feature is uncomplicated to use with a variety of different filters to help you narrow down and find exactly what you're looking for. To learn more about a specific listing on the map, tap on it, and it'll include the pricing, ratings, photos, operating hours, and contact information.
The reviews and photos are invaluable when it comes down to picking vegan food that is authentic and delicious. If you want to find something really specific, you can sort your searches by rating, distance, name, and price. As an example, if you're looking for an upscale vegan restaurant to visit for a special occasion, it's best to sort your search by the highest rating. Once you've picked how you want to sort your search, tap Apply, and the best listings will appear first.
Connect With Other Members
HappyCow helps you find and befriend fellow members of the vegan community. Depending on where you're located in the world, the app displays a selection of nearby HappyCow users. Alternatively, you can search for other HappyCow members by city or country. To connect with someone you find interesting, tap on their profile and send them a direct message or follow them to keep up with their vegan foodie adventures.
Everyone's profile is unique, with details about where they're from, their favorite cuisines, photos, reviews, and how many points and badges they've gained. To earn various points and badges on HappyCow, all you have to do is complete certain tasks, like uploading photos and reviews. You can edit your own profile to show exactly who you are, too. For example, to describe yourself, add tags such as blogger, ethical vegan, foodie, or traveler.
Browse the Community Feed
The feed is where you can see reviews and photos posted by members who live close by. Moreover, you are able to keep up with what the people you follow post, almost like you would on a social media network like Instagram.
Feel free to get involved yourself and add a review or photos of a meal you've recently enjoyed. The more details you attach, the more likely you are to help others make a good dining decision. Plus, it's always nice to share a positive vegan or vegetarian experience with people around the world. The HappyCow app is especially helpful if you're traveling to a foreign country and need to find delicious and reliable vegan food.
Shop in the Vegan Store
The items listed in the store are those that keep HappyCow happy! Yes, HappyCow receives a percentage from each sale, but if you're looking for trusted vegan products, then it's completely worth it. The store features hundreds of categories to choose from, whether you're looking for tasty vegan candy or gift ideas for the vegan in your life.
Additionally, you can purchase HappyCow merchandise in their store, including a HappyCow T-shirt, pullover hoodie, and the HappyCow cookbook. Please note that because the products are only available through Amazon US, you might not be able to purchase them.
Join the Vegan Forum
The HappyCow website has an exclusive feature that's not available on the app: the vegan forum and chat board. The forum allows you to chat about everything and anything related to veganism, from wisdom and spirituality to animal rights and welfare. For those who need cooking suggestions, culinary guidance, or maybe just some help finding healthy vegan recipes, visit the HappyCow Recipes Directory.
To follow a specific post, simply click Watch this topic, and the post is then added to your Following list. Alternatively, you can join in on a discussion by replying and sharing your experience or personal opinion. Overall, the forum is a great place to have conversations about topics that interest you.
Is the HappyCow App Actually Any Good to Use?
Finding delicious vegan food has never been easier, thanks to the HappyCow app. The app dedicates itself to helping people eat amazing food worldwide, as often, there are limits to the vegan and vegetarian options available. Furthermore, it creates a sense of community among members.
By using HappyCow, you can find rare restaurants that are closer than you think and gain knowledge from people who have eaten the food themselves. In addition, HappyCow offers over 175,000 different listings, and secondly, the Android app and website are totally free to use. Due to its many great features, HappyCow is one food app you definitely want to download.