A VENTNOR restaurant has expanded its service following customer demand and has defended its decision to not cater for vegans.

See the menu below

The Kitchen at London House, found on the High Street, offers lite bites and lunches specialising in European and British food, including homemade pastries, quiches, cakes and scones. It is particularly known for its homemade giant sausage rolls.

Giving in to pressure, the Bistro has now released an evening menu, opening every Friday and Saturday from 6pm.

However, it didn't include vegan dishes on its menu, leading to backlash on social media.

After apologising and explaining that the Bistro does not cater for vegans, the popular eatery posted on its Facebook page defending its decision and tackling what it called ‘social media bullying’.

Speaking about its apology to vegans, a spokesperson said: “Had that of been a food intolerance we couldn’t cater for, ordinarily that would have sufficed.

“However, some nasty people have felt it’s their place and right to criticise this fact.”

“You have to ask yourself, do you think that bullying someone is going to endear them to you? Is it going to make them rethink their decision…maybe I should? NO, it does not!”

London House said it had catered for vegans in the past, offering vegan cream teas and special vegan bacon, but said it stopped because it got fed up with 'the arrogant, holier-than-thou attitude'.

The spokesperson continued: “Please, vegans, it is not a given that we should adapt our menu to suit your preference.

“If you want vegan food, go to a vegan restaurant… incidentally, if I went to one and asked for a steak, I wouldn’t get one, nor would I expect to.

“You have chosen your lifestyle. It’s not a medical condition that you’ve been forced to endure through no fault of your own.

“Your choice does not fit with our style of cooking. We respect your choice and expect that you respect ours.”

The bistro said it is unfair to tar everyone with the same brush, with the decision to stop catering several years ago brought about by 'the militant minority' that spoiled it for the majority.

Many customers took to the comments to support the Bisto’s decision.

Isle of Wight County Press: Courtesy of The London House Bistro.Courtesy of The London House Bistro.