A HEREFORD restaurant is joining the trend for vegan dining by launching watermelon tuna.

Wagamama, which has a branch in the city's Old Market, is featuring the dish during Veganuary, a movement that encourages people to go vegan during January as a way to promote vegan lifestyles (vegans choose not to use animal products).

The chain says vegan tuna has not been done by any other big restaurant brand.

The ‘tuna’ is made with dehydrated watermelon, which is then sliced, seared and served hot.

Wagamama says the look and texture is similar to tuna sashimi, although the flavour remains reminiscent of watermelon.

The ‘tuna’ is dressed with a miso sesame sauce and is served on a bed of white rice dressed with soy seasoning and accompanied with pickled radish, kale and tender-stem broccoli and an avocado, edamame and tofu guacamole.

Wagamama specialises in Asian and Japanese-inspired food.

Group executive chef Steve Mangleshot said: “My team and I are always excited about creating new dishes; we love to innovate and make people think about the food they are eating.

“The watermelon tuna dish is all about innovation and creating exceptional vegan food for our guests."

This week bakery chain Greggs launched a vegan steak bake.