Cranks was the UK's first ever vegetarian restaurant, opening on 21st June 1961. With a commitment to a healthy, soul-satisfying diet, their vegetarian ideals have not changed over the course of publishing six recipe books. The Cranks restaurant has now moved from London's Carnaby Street to the calmer surroundings of The Cider Press Centre near Totnes in Devon.

Their classic cookbook, reissued this year, is thorough on cooking techniques with sections of sauces, preserves and baking. Dishes encourage use of simple unrefined ingredients in line with the restaurant's ethos.