We know firsthand the struggles of finding delicious and satisfying vegetarian/vegan meals in Asia that do not compromise on the authentic taste of our local cuisine.
After trying out countless vegetarian restaurants in the city, we have narrowed it down to our top five favorites. These five places not only offer delicious and diverse menus, but they also have a strong commitment to sustainability and ethical practices. These stores will leave your taste buds and stomach fully satisfied.
First up on the list is Fortune Centre. Located in the heart of city, this strata mall is a hidden gem for vegetarians. With a variety of stalls offering everything from Indian curries to Chinese stir-fries, there is something for everyone here. Our personal favorite is Tian Yuan Healthy Vegetarian Food Paradise Restaurant, which serves up delicious dishes like their signature Thunder Tea Rice, and also “chicken” rice and “beef” noodles that are so realistic, you’ll swear they’re the real deal. Special mention goes to Teng Bespoke that serves vegetarian sashimi (??!). It is no surprise that this strata mall is along our “Street of Harmony” along Waterloo Street. Find out more about the street with Churches, Temples, Mosques and Synagogues and how all this ties together on our Balik Kampong Tour!
Next on the list is Green Dot. This chain of vegetarian fast food restaurants can be found all over Singapore, making it a convenient option for those on the go. Their menu features a variety of local dishes, alongside rice bowls, burgers, sandwiches, and wraps all made with plant-based protein sources. Our favourite is the local Rendang made with lionmane mushrooms, which is a delicious and satisfying gravy that goes beautifully with their selection of healthy red/brown rice.
For those looking for a more traditional dining experience, Komala Vilas is a must-try. This Indian restaurant has been serving delicious vegetarian dishes for over 70 years, and it’s easy to see why. The menu features a range of classic dishes, from masalas and biryani to dosas and idlis, all made with fresh and flavorful ingredients.The food here is always fresh and flavorful, and the prices are incredibly reasonable. Guides on our Little India tour swears by this restaurant, and we are in pretty good company!
There are some really good finer dining options as well. Joie by Dozo, perched atop Orchard Central, transcends vegetarian dining stereotypes, offering a captivating fusion of Japanese-European flavors and innovative culinary artistry. The delightful menu features dishes that transform vegetables, fruits, and herbs into a symphony of colors and textures. Prices start from SGD$38++ for the lunch menu and goes up to SGD$88++ for dinner. Signature side dishes like Gratinated Champignon with Mozzarella and Baby Root Vegetables Garden showcase the chef’s culinary technical skills. Cold dishes, such as Transparency of Pear and Vegetable Sashimi on Ice with Oyster Leaf Shooter Glass, impress with their artful presentations. This is definitely one of those special occassion places. The dining journey unfolds against the backdrop of sweeping views of Orchard Road. We think that this is a haven for fine dining enthusiasts, offering a unique, meatless culinary adventure in a sophisticated setting.
If you’re in the mood for something sweet, Kind Kones is the place to go. This ice cream shop is completely vegan, offering a range of creamy and delicious flavors made with coconut milk and other plant-based ingredients. They offer a range of unique flavors like “matcha green tea” and “mango lassi”. The best part? They also have a variety of toppings and waffles to choose from, so you can create your own custom sundae. Trust us, you won’t be able to resist going back for seconds (or thirds).
Last but certainly not least is VeganBurg, a vegan gourmet burger restaurant that has taken Singapore by storm. With a range of plant-based burgers and sides, VeganBurg is a great option for a quick and satisfying meal. Our personal favorites include Char-Grilled Satay burger, which is made with a GMO-free pan-grilled plant-protein patty and topped with crunchy lettuce, onion, cucumber and fresh pineapple. The very local Chilli Krab bears special mention as well – a tender and crispy plant-protein “crab” meat patty, farm-fresh greens, and authentic homemade chili crab sauce made from handcrafted rempah
==Hidden gem update==
Guests on our recent Signature Chinatown tour might hear our guides gushing about the vegetarian food court at the basement of the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. Now, we know what you’re thinking – “A temple? That’s not exactly a foodie destination.” But trust us, it’s home to one of the tastiest and most underrated vegetarian places in of Singapore.
First things first, let’s talk about the food. This place is a vegetarian paradise, and has a daily change in menu from local offerings to “western” pasta to satisfy even the most carnivorous of appetites. And the best part? You get to load up on as many free condiments as you want. That’s right, free. Think pickled vegetables, crispy fried onions, and spicy chili sauce. It’s like a vegetarian version of a sundae bar.
An added bonus is definitely the ambiance at Lian Xin 莲芯膳坊, which we like to call “calming chic”. It’s all clean lines and natural wood accents, with plenty of greenery to remind you that you’re in a temple. It’s the perfect place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of Chinatown and enjoy a peaceful meal. Plus, the prices are more than reasonable, so you won’t be stressing about your wallet while you’re there.
Overall, these are our top picks in Singapore if you are looking for delicious and ethical plant-based meals. Whether you’re in the mood for fast food or a sit-down dinner, there’s something for everyone at these amazing establishments.
Be Kind, and Happy Eating!