As Indians, we cherish our food, especially the comforting allure of a hot breakfast with idlies, sambar, and filter coffee. Investing in good food, looking our best, and staying healthy is paramount. Often, we overlook food allergies, unaware of how they might affect us. Eko-Lyfe Cafe addresses this with its new breakfast menu, inspired by the wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita. The menu embodies principles promoting longevity, virtue, strength, health, happiness, and satisfaction, featuring dishes that are juicy, succulent, nourishing, and naturally tasteful. Committed to sustainability, the cafe’s waste disposal methods include segregation at source, composting, and recycling. Let’s hear more from the founder, Jignesh Pujara, about the vision behind Eko-Lyfe’s guilt-free offerings.

The founder, Jignesh, shares, “We initially launched ‘Eko-Lyfe’ as a zero-waste store a couple of years back. However, it was too early for Chennai to embrace such a concept, especially during the second or third wave of COVID when people were heavily reliant on online shopping. Despite this, we stuck with the plant-based vegan store idea and introduced a café. We tried integrating the store items into the café menu, but that too didn’t work out as expected. Our goal was not just to cater to vegans but to promote ethical living.

“Using the term ‘vegan’ puts off many people. Veganism is not just a diet but a lifestyle. I prefer calling it a plant-based diet. We focus on ethical reasons, working to prevent animal torture. Veganism is a movement, not just a diet. When you consider it as a plant-based diet, it becomes more approachable and understandable.

No Whites at Eko Lyfe!
“Our concept was ahead of its time for Chennai. We avoid using any white products like white sugar, white salt, or white Maida. Instead, we use alternatives like maple syrup, agave syrup, jaggery powder, and pink salt. We also offer many sugar-free and gluten-free options, which help push our brand forward.

“Many people are allergic to milk. Milk is not meant for humans, consuming it means ingesting the hormones and pain that animals go through. Whether it’s meat or milk, it contains painful hormones. Just try avoiding milk for a week and see the difference—it can alleviate back pain, leg pain, stomach issues, and bloating. Even doctors often advise against giving milk and chocolate to children when they have coughs, colds, or indigestion. Your body doesn’t support it!

Is a Plant-Based Diet Expensive?
“Buying plant-based products can be costly at the store level. For example, if I’m making coffee for myself, I use just a dash of almond milk for that creamy feel. It’s about finding balance and making healthier choices without necessarily spending a lot.”

All-Day Breakfast Highlights
Eko-Lyfe offers a delightful range of all-day breakfast options. Enjoy the Caponata Toast, a Savory mix of diced veggies infused with rosemary tomato sauce, pesto, and black olives, all served on sourdough bread. Another favourite is the Spinach Corn Toast, featuring creamy vegan cheese sauce with spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and corn on sourdough bread. For a unique taste, try the PBC Leeks Toast, with Eko-Lyfe’s creamy PBC and leek mixture topped with parsley.

Must Try:
Egg-free Veg French Toast, Rainbow Acai Bowl, Scrambled Tofu, and Pancakes.

Where:
3, Ananda Rd, Alwarpet, Chennai – 600018.