Discover the stories, flavors, and adventures that inspire Erin
Erin Ireland has always approached life with curiosity, adventure, and a big appetite for experiences, especially when they involve plant-based food. From discovering hidden gems in Stockholm to discovering the vibrant streets of Italy and the otherworldly charm of Japan, her travels have shaped not only the way she eats but how she lives.
A lover of bold flavours, she can tell you where to find the creamiest taramasalata in New York City, the best indulgent vegan ice cream in Toronto, and the ultimate spicy rigatoni in Los Angeles.
When she’s not exploring new cities, Erin is at home cooking her favourite meals, rescuing dogs from around the world, and indulging in the little pleasures that make life delicious and meaningful. Read on to get to know Erin Ireland and discover the stories that define her world.
What is your favourite travel memory?
Darren and I had just landed in Stockholm during their national holiday, Midsummer. Almost everything was closed, and we were starving. We searched online for a vegan restaurant that was open, but couldn’t find anything. We were about to settle for beer and fries at the one pub on the street that was open, when I figured I’d post to my Instagram stories asking for a rec as a last ditch effort.
Within minutes, someone had replied with one name: Hermans. It ended up being 100m away from us, and it was open. We walked in, and our tired hungry eyes were treated to the most amazing site: the most incredible, abundant 100% plant-based buffet we’d ever seen. We gorged! And it was amazing.
Favorite place you’ve traveled and why?
The most frequent place I’ve travelled to is Italy. There is something about its streets, food and people that I’ve always felt drawn to. But Japan surprised me! While its food wasn’t my favourite, it became a top travel destination for me because when I’m there I feel like I’m on another planet. It’s so different! I also love how clean it is and how sweet the people are.
What’s your favorite meal to eat after coming home from a trip?
Since I’m usually in full-on ‘indulge-mode’ on trips, I love to come home to a really big healthy meal, like these sushi bowls perhaps.
What’s your favorite recipe of your own to make?
Lemon Greek potatoes with tofu souvlaki, Greek salad and tzatziki!!
Check out Erin’s recipe for her favourite Lemon Greek Potatoes!
What are your top 3 vegan restaurants?
Anixi in New York City. They’re a Mediterranean restaurant that makes amazing shish kebabs, made with very realistic house-made meats, which come on long skewers drizzled heavily with sauce. They also have a wildly thick and creamy taramasalata, which is a must-order. It’s a lemon infused yogurt with orange seaweed caviar.
Crossroads in Los Angeles. Kind of an obvious pick but so many of the dishes really are outstanding, like the spicy rigatoni vodka pasta with chicken parm. I don’t love the decor and vibe here, but will go every time I’m nearby for the food.
Honey’s Ice Cream in Toronto. The best ice cream I’ve ever had and nobody would guess it’s vegan. The best part about their explosively delicious flavours (think peanut butter & saltine crackers, plain yogurt & blueberry jam) is that they are loaded with more chunky things (cookies, pie crust, waffle cone etc) than you ever thought possible. Eating one of their pints is a textural journey.
Do you have any pets? What are their names and what are their additional nicknames you call them?
We have three rescue dogs: Suri (sometimes called Duri or Suri Duri) from India, Hiroshi (Hiro) from Africa and Alfie (sometimes called his former name, Rintintin) from Mexico (we believe he is a relative of my soul dog, Effie, who passed in August 2024). My six-year-old, River, has been begging us to add a fourth dog to our family. She wants an old tiny rescue dog that she can fit in her bag.
What's something your followers might not know about you?
Up until the end of university, where I studied broadcasting, sports was the focus of my life. I played volleyball at university in South Carolina and since then have refused to pick-up a volleyball.
Erin Ireland's Upcoming Getaways:
We’re thrilled to announce that Erin Ireland will be joining us for two unforgettable plant-based adventures in 2026!
Herbivores in Hrvatska, May 16-23, Split & Dubrovnik, Croatia – a few spots left!
Japan Part III: The Golden Root, September 12-22, Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka – sold out!
With her passion for bold flavours, vegan cuisine, and culinary exploration, Erin is the perfect host for these journeys. From savouring local plant-based dishes to discovering hidden vegan gems, she’ll bring incredible insight, enthusiasm, and a love of good food to every experience.
Don’t miss your chance to join Erin on her Croatian Getaway!
Stay tuned as we follow Erin Ireland on her travels and share all the memorable moments along the way. And be sure to check out our other upcoming Getaways – you just might find your next adventure!
Discover more of Erin’s delicious plant-based creations on her website, and follow her on Instagram @erinireland. Don’t miss her Vancouver-based vegan bakery, @tolivefor,for sweet treats that are as indulgent as they are plant-powered.
Feeling inspired? Explore our Upcoming Getaways and find your next adventure!
