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Jul, 2023

9 Best Vegan Meat Substitutes

Not that long ago, if you wanted to create a hearty meal while on a plant-based diet, your only choice was something made of highly processed soy protein.

Today, luckily, there are tons of great protein-packed bases for creating meat substitutes. And even more amazing brands using those bases to create some very tasty and naturally healthy products.

If you’re looking to broaden your horizons in the meatless meat world, we’re here to help.

Below, you’ll find 9 of the best vegan meat substitute bases that can be used to create some seriously deliciously meaty plant-based meals. Plus, we’ll give you our favorite product recommendations from https://bombaysandwichco.com/ each category so you know which brands are made with your health and taste buds in mind.

9 Great Vegan Meat Alternatives

Each of these awesome protein-packed vegan meat substitutes can be used in their most basic form to create recipes from scratch. And many of them are utilized by the growing meat substitute industry to create ready-made products that take less work to prepare.

1. Tempeh

Tempeh is no newbie to the protein-packed plant product world. In fact, this soybean-based product has been used in Indonesia for thousands of years.

It is made by cooking and fermenting whole soybeans and then packing them into a dense block or patty that can be easily sauteed, grilled, or crumbled and doused in barbecue sauce to create some delicious vegan sloppy joes.

Pros:

High in protein
High in fiber
Some probiotic benefits
Dense, chewy meat-like texture
Less processed

That soybean base means tempeh has tons of protein to offer and contains all nine essential amino acids. It is also loaded with fiber to help keep you regular and contains probiotics thanks to the fermenting it undergoes during creation. And of course, it is loaded with health-supporting isoflavonoids.

Tempeh has a chewy texture and dense consistency that make it great for use in recipes that would normally call for ground beef. It can also be sliced thin and used to create some amazing vegan bacon strips.

Unlike a lot of meat alternatives, tempeh is not overly processed. This means it retains a lot of its natural enzymes and nutrients.

Cons:

Have to prepare it
Can be dry and/or bitter
May not be gluten-free
Contains some fat

Of course, one of the downsides of unprocessed plant-based meat substitutes is that you have to do more work to prepare them. Most tempeh you’ll find at the store doesn’t include marinades or seasoning. Some may have seeds or grains added to the mix before pressing, but this adds more to texture than to flavor and can mean the product isn’t gluten-free.

If you don’t prepare your tempeh correctly, which often requires boiling it first, it won’t absorb the flavors of the dish and you’ll be left with a bitter, bland, or dry final product.

2. Lentils

Lentils are a type of legume prized for their chewy texture and neutral flavor. They make a great unprocessed addition to many meals that normally include meat, such as chili and enchiladas.

Pros:

Rich source of protein
Unprocessed
Versatile
High in fiber

Like other legumes, lentils are naturally high in protein. They are also loaded with fiber which means they can help support healthy digestion and a balanced gut biome.

Legumes are also wonderfully versatile thanks to their neutral flavor. They pair well with a variety of sauces and seasonings. They can be eaten on their own or used in place of ground beef in many recipes.

And, since these tasty beans are completely unprocessed, you know you’re getting all the great vitamins and minerals they have to offer! Plus, they come in a variety of colors, all with slightly different textures and flavors.

Cons:

Can cause gas
Low in some amino acids
No convincing meaty texture

Fiber is good, if your system can handle it. Lentils, more so than other beans, seem to give some people more digestive trouble and gas. And, despite having tons of protein, they are low in a few essential amino acids, so it’s best to pair them with grains to get everything you need.

While lentils are delicious, they aren’t going to fool anyone into thinking they’re eating meat. So, this meat substitute is best saved for your vegan friends.

3. Beans

Beans come in a wide variety of types, from the old standby black beans, to the texture powerhouses aduki beans and chickpeas. You can use beans to up the protein content of many vegan dishes, like quinoa bowls, or use them as a meat replacement to make your own burger patties.

Pros:

High in protein
High in folate
Make you feel full
Very versatile
Unprocessed

All beans are high in protein and many are great sources of folate, or vitamin B9. Folate is turned into folic acid in the body and used to produce and maintain new cells. This vitamin is highly important during pregnancy and something to track closely if you follow a vegan diet.

Beans also have plenty of insoluble and soluble fiber to make you feel full. Plus, they are super versatile given how many different types of beans there are. Some lend themselves well to being squished up and made into vegan burgers, while others are chewy enough to mimic chicken in chicken salad, and some can be prepared to take the place of ground beef in many traditional meals.

Cons:

Low in some amino acids
No convincing meaty texture

Like lentils, beans are also low in certain amino acids. Preparing your beans with grains like rice or pasta, fills in the nutritional gaps nicely, however. But, no matter how you prepare them or which type you use, you aren’t likely to convince anyone they’re eating an animal-based meal.

4. Tofu

Like tempeh, tofu is a soy-based meat replacement that has been around for thousands of years. But instead of using whole soybeans, this product is made by curdling soy milk and pressing it into a block. This gives it a unique texture as far as “meat” goes, but also makes it incredibly versatile.

Pros:

Low calorie
High protein content
Multiple uses
Different types

Compared to tempeh, tofu is lower in calories but still packs a ton of plant-based protein and many vital minerals and vitamins. It is also lower in fat and a great meat alternative for those trying to cut their calorie intake.

And because tofu comes in five different varieties from soft silken to dense super-firm, it can be used in a variety of situations. Silken tofu, for instance, makes a wonderfully convincing egg replacement for morning scrambles and breakfast burritos. Meanwhile, firm tofu can be cut to shape and flavored to mimic chicken, steak, ground pork, and more.

Cons:

Requires some prep work
Can be difficult to work with
Has a bland flavor if not seasoned correctly

Of course, like other minimally processed non-meat options, tofu will require more work on your part. To get it to taste like a well-marinated or spiced piece of meat, you have to press the block to remove the water. Then you must prepare and cook it right so it absorbs enough flavors.

And because of all the different types available, it can be tough to find the right one for your needs and it can take some practice to learn how to work with it.

5. Mycoprotein

Maybe the least well-known of the meat substitutes, mycoprotein is starting to catch on in many vegan circles. Made from Fusarium venenatum, a naturally occurring fungus, this plant meat is much tastier than it sounds.

Pros:

Loaded with nutrients
Great source of protein
Very convincing meat-like texture
Less processed than many commercial meat substitutes
Ready to cook

This special fungus is loaded with nutrients, including zinc and vitamin D, and has more protein per gram than chicken. But it takes far fewer resources to grow than livestock.

Most impressively, mycoprotein has a very meat-like texture and can be easily manipulated to replicate beef, chicken, sausage, and many other meat products. Despite this, it is less processed than many commercial meat substitute products.

Cons:

Not all options are vegan
A little pricey
Not always easy to find

Currently, there is only one brand of mycoprotein-containing vegetarian products on the market, Quorn. And unfortunately, many of their products contain egg whites as a binder. But, they are slowly expanding their vegan product options.

Even still, these products can be a bit pricey and aren’t available at all grocery stores yet.

6. Seitan

Seitan was first created by Buddhist monks back in the 7th century. Then, it was made by soaking wheat dough in water to isolate the protein, or vital wheat gluten. Today, this product can be made at home in much the same way, but is much more often processed in large commercial facilities and pressed into a variety of shapes to imitate real meat.

Pros:

High in vegetable protein
Available in many varieties
Chewy meat-like texture
Many products require little prep

Seitan is made by washing away the starch in wheat, producing a product that is low in fat and carbs, and high in protein. This vital wheat gluten product has a chewy texture that very much resembles chicken or beef.

Many seitan products that you’ll find at the store have been pre-flavored and come in a number of different varieties to make your food prep super simple. You can also buy plain seitan and marinate it yourself.

Cons:

Contains gluten
Not a complete protein
Many products are overprocessed

If you are sensitive to gluten or have celiac disease, then seitan is not for you. Even if you tolerate gluten well, it’s best not to eat this product every day as you could develop an allergy. This is especially true if you eat highly processed seitan products.

It is also worth noting that seitan is not a complete protein. Like beans, it is low in a few essential amino acids. Luckily, though, the ones it’s low in happen to be the ones beans have plenty of. This means that if you pair your seitan with legumes, you’ll get everything you need in one meal.

7. Jackfruit

Jackfruit is a tropical fruit grown in Asia, South America, and Africa. It is the largest fruit in the world and can grow up to 40 pounds. While very ripe jackfruit is somewhat sweet, less ripe varieties have a bland taste that pairs well with savory sauces.

Pros:

Has a stringy texture like pulled pork
Loaded with nutrients and phytochemicals
Low in calories
Not overly processed

Jackfruit is mostly made up of fiber and starch, which means it’s a fairly low-calorie meat substitute option. It has a naturally stringy texture with some chunky bits that allow it to perfectly imitate pulled pork. It’s also great for tacos and carnitas.

Because it comes by its meaty texture naturally, there’s no reason to over-process it, which means a lot of commercial jackfruit products are better for you than other fake meat options. Many retain all the great nutrients, phytochemicals, and antioxidants that make the fruit part of a healthy diet.

Cons:

Low in protein
Texture can be off-putting
Use caution if you have certain allergies

One thing jackfruit doesn’t have that most other plant-based meats do is protein. Like other fruits, jackfruit contains some protein, but not a ton. Therefore, this is only a good meat substitute in terms of texture, not macronutrient profile.

While that texture is pretty dead-on for pulled or shredded pork, many find it off-putting once they learn it’s actually from a plant. Whether you like the texture or not you may want to avoid this meat fruit if you have a latex or birch pollen allergy as cross-reactions have been known to happen.

8. Pea Protein

Pea protein is a very useful product for those looking to ditch whey, casein, and other animal product-based protein powders. It’s also becoming more and more popular as a base in meat substitutes.

Pros:

High in protein
Soy and gluten-free
Can be used to replicate many meaty textures
Little preparation required

Pea protein naturally has a neutral flavor that can be mixed with a host of other ingredients to create all kinds of meat substitute products. Many of these creations are also gluten and soy-free which means more people can enjoy them.

Because pea protein isolate is made by washing away the starch in peas, it offers tons of protein without a lot of extra calories.

Cons:

Included in many highly processed products
Many products are high in sodium
Best as an occasional indulgence

Because pea protein takes a ton of processing to resemble meat, it isn’t the best substitute to use as a daily indulgence. That processing often includes a ton of less-than-natural binders and fillers and an unhealthy heaping of sodium.

9. Soy Protein

Unlike tofu and tempeh, soy protein found in many plant-based alternatives is created by processing soy to wash away the starch. What is left is highly useful soy protein isolate.

Pros:

Very high in protein
Can be used in a variety of recipes
Little preparation required

Much like pea protein, soy protein can be processed in a number of ways to imitate various meat products. It is often mixed with other ingredients and pressed into a mold to look and taste like anything from chicken to ground beef.

Most products that contain soy protein are ready to heat and already bursting with flavor, which makes the prep process a breeze.

Cons:

Highly processed
May be high in sodium
Best as an occasional indulgence

Soy protein shares many of the same pitfalls as pea protein. These products are often highly processed and contain a lot of salt to add flavor. Products that aren’t all-natural may also contain artificial flavors and colors, as well as synthetic binders.

While these products may taste amazing and do a great job imitating meat, they are best saved for special occasions rather than representing a part of your daily diet.

Make Your Own Vegan Ground Beef

The easiest meat substitutes to work with from our list above are tempeh and tofu. Each can be used interchangeably in many recipes to make seriously delicious and healthy meat substitutes right at home.

One of our favorite recipes using these soy products is this awesomely easy plant-based ground beef.

Jul, 2023

Vegan Restaurants Near Me: The Best Places for Plant-Based Food in San Francisco

There are many, many reasons why millions flood to San Francisco every year. The northern California city isn’t short on beautiful views, interesting museums, thriving nightlife, or great theater. But one of the biggest reasons why people love the home of the Golden Gate Bridge has to be the city’s food scene. Over the past few years, San Francisco has evolved into quite the foodie haven, and good news for vegans: it has an abundance of plant-based fare on offer. If you’re heading there soon, here are some of our top vegan restaurant picks from https://bombaysandwichco.com/‘s team, from Italian to sushi to raw. Honestly, good luck deciding. You’re going to need it.

11 must-try vegan restaurants in San Francisco

Wildseed

Founded by renowned San Francisco restaurateur Adriano Paganini, Wildseed specializes in top-quality, seasonal plant-based food. Every dish is led by California’s fresh ingredients, but inspired by different cuisines from around the world. Right now, for example, you can grab a fragrant Spicy Yellow Curry, made with an array of vegetables and spices, including turmeric, squash, eggplant, and basil. And on the side, you can enjoy a taste of Belgium by sharing a portion of Belga Fries, complete with not one, but two types of aioli and curry ketchup.

Baia

Celebrity chef Matthew Kenney has a host of plant-based restaurants to his name, including Baia on San Francisco’s Grove Street. If you’re into comforting Italian fare, then this is upscale eatery is guaranteed to become your new go-to. The menu is complete with spicy ravioli, garlic-laden spaghetti, and indulgent pizza with Impossible Foods’ Italian sausage. Buon appetito!

Mr. Charlie’s

If you really love the taste of McDonald’s but you’d rather not sacrifice any animals for your burger, then you need to try one of Mr.Charlie’s Frowny Meals. Choose from the Not a Cheeseburger or the Impossible Hamburger, both of which come with plant-based nuggets, and, of course, fries and a drink.

Rad Radish

Whether you fancy a plate of vegan chicken and waffles, a carb-heavy pizza, or a fresh bowl of leafy green salad, Rad Radish on Hayes Street has the meal for you, be it breakfast, lunch, or dinner time. Think of its specialty as comfort food with a healthy, fresh, locally sourced, seasonal twist.

Shizen

Traditionally, sushi is made with fish and seafood, like squid, salmon, tuna, and eel. But as this vegan restaurant proves, animal products aren’t necessary for making deliciously addictive Japanese cuisine. Shizen’s menu includes everything from asparagus nigiri to California rolls made with shredded tofu and avocado. But that’s not all. Its plant-based versions of ramen, miso soup, yuba salad, and specialty rolls—like Open Invitation featuring pumpkin tempura and Foxy Scarlet with sweet potato purée—are all must-tries.

Golden Era Vegan

Since the late 1990s, Golden Era Vegan has been supplying downtown San Francisco with delicious, plant-based dishes inspired by many countries in Asia, including Vietnam, India, China, and Thailand. Sample a little bit of everything by combining flavorful Pho with Spicy Thai Fried Rice, egg-less rolls, and curry wraps. You won’t be leaving with an empty stomach, that is guaranteed.

Nourish Cafe

If you’re craving some plant-based nourishment, then Nourish Cafe is the spot for you (the clue is in the name really). Expect to find a rich and diverse menu filled with whole food, organic ingredients, like quinoa, marinated tofu, housemade “tuna,” and all the veggies under the sun. If you just want to stop by for a smoothie, then great news: there is an extensive menu ready and waiting (Baobab Banana Berry is not to be missed).

Gracias Madre

For those who love Mexican cuisine (and who doesn’t?), then you can’t leave San Francisco without stopping by Gracias Madre. The Mission Street spot, which is also open for brunch on weekends, offers everything from jackfruit carnitas tacos to ultra-filling enchiladas, loaded with potato and zucchini. And of course, everything has to be washed down with one of the eatery’s signature margaritas.

VeganBurg

You can’t go wrong with a big, juicy vegan burger, let’s be honest. And, as the name has already given away, this is something that VeganBurg has in spades. From Avocado Beetroot to Tangy Tartar to Smoky BBQ, this chain (which also has a spot in Singapore) has a patty to suit everyone’s taste. On the side, there are standard (yet delicious) options like Cheesy Fries and the Rainbow Salad, as well as more unique offerings, like BBQ Franks, Loaded Shroom Fries, and Sizzlin’ Broccoli.

Judahlicious

If you’ve been unsure about raw vegan food in the past, then let Judalicious’ fresh and flavorful menu convince you that it is 100 percent worth your time and your tastebuds. The Dark Side of the Shroom, for example, which features a portabella mushroom loaded with zucchini, kale, cauliflower, cashew creme, and more, proves that raw is far from boring. But that said, if you would really prefer something cooked, then Judahlicious also offers an extensive hot menu. Pro tip: the House Chili with toasted ciabatta is particularly satisfying.

Wholesome Bakery

Whether you’re after a beautiful custom-tiered cake, a tasty morning bun, or an indulgent fudge brownie, Wholesome Bakery has got you covered. Everything at the bakery is totally plant-based, plus it prioritizes the use of sustainable ingredients, including fair trade chocolate, and all of its sweet treats are free of refined sugar.

Jul, 2023

Vegan Breakfast Near Me: 17 Chains to Grab a Tasty Morning Meal

Breakfast is, arguably, one of the best meals of the day. Whether you eat first thing in the morning or you’re more of a brunch-lover, you can’t go wrong with a stack of pancakes, a plate of (vegan) bacon and eggs, a bagel, or a simple bowl of cereal and oat milk. But when did we first start eating breakfast? And why? https://bombaysandwichco.com/ We’ve got the answers below. And, for days when you roll out of bed and just don’t feel like cooking, we’ve also listed the very best chains to grab some tasty plant-based morning grub.

Why do we eat breakfast?

While it’s now considered by many as the most important meal of the day, people haven’t always eaten breakfast.

Those who lived in medieval Europe, for example, would only eat early in the morning if they were up early for work, or they were suffering from an illness. Some also rejected the idea on religious grounds. Fasting was the pinnacle of morality, and eating too soon in the morning was seen as a sign of gluttony. Fun fact: the word breakfast literally means to break the fast—because we fast as we sleep.

But over the centuries, as new foods and beverages (like tea and coffee) were introduced to Europe from countries they had colonized, breakfast became more normalized, and even celebrated.

By the Victorian era, people on both sides of the Atlantic were enjoying breakfast. For poorer, working people, this would be something simple and quick, but for, say, wealthy Americans, breakfast became a feast of poached eggs, English muffins, toast, and French cheese, reports CBS.

The 19th century also brought with it the invention of Quaker Oats and cereals, like cornflakes. And by the turn of the 20th century, breakfast, as we know it today, had started to take shape.

Popular vegan breakfast foods

According to USA Today, bacon, eggs, sausage, and pancakes are all in the top five breakfast foods for Americans. But plant-based alternatives to all of these foods exist, so if you want to indulge in a big vegan meal in the morning, you don’t have to miss out. For more on vegan bacon options, follow our guide to the best brands here. We’ve also got the ultimate guide to vegan sausages, and you can find out everything you need to know about one of the most popular vegan egg products, Just Egg, here.

Where to buy vegan breakfast

Life is all about the little things that make us happy. And waking up at the weekend and finding somewhere to eat a delicious breakfast is one of those little things. Luckily, the vegan breakfast options are leveling up all of the time—and not just in the US.

If you’re in Toronto, Revelstoke Cafe is the newest brunch spot turning its customers on to plant-based foods with vegan breakfast classics, like tofu scramble and cashew hollandaise. And in London, popular breakfast chain the Breakfast Club serves an extensive vegan menu, and even turned one location totally vegan for Veganuary.

But in the US, there is also an abundance of vegan breakfast options. Next time your stomach growls in the morning, consider breaking your fast at one of these chains.

Peet’s Coffee

If you’re in the mood for a munch and a morning coffee (with dairy-free milk, of course), head down to Peet’s and try the Everything Plant-Based Sandwich, which includes Beyond Breakfast Sausage, Just Egg, and vegan cheddar cheese.

Starbucks

If you’re passing a Starbucks (which, to be honest, is a frequent occurrence for most of us), meat-free breakfast options include an Impossible Breakfast Sandwich (which comes with egg and cheese) or a bagel with avocado spread (which is totally vegan!).

IHOP

Ok, so unfortunately the pancakes at IHOP are not vegan. But don’t despair, the menu at the popular pancake chain has plenty of other plant-based choices, including plant-based sausages, avocado toast, and crispy hashbrowns.

Qdoba

Qdoba is a great place to grab a quick burrito for lunch or dinner, but there are some vegan breakfast options too. Ask for the Potato Breakfast Burrito, or the Potato Breakfast Bowl, without egg or cheese, and ask for extra guac.

Caffe Nero

Based in London and inspired by Italy, the coffee chain Caffe Nero also has several locations in the US. And just like its UK spots, a handful of vegan options are on the menu, including a Vegan Breakfast Roll with Beyond Sausage, Just Egg, and Daiya vegan cheese.

Odd Burger

Odd Burger (formerly known as Globally Local) is currently a Canada-based vegan chain, but it’s on its way to the US very soon, as it signed a letter of intent last year to open 50 new spots in the US and Europe. And when that moment comes, make sure your stomach is ready, because its vegan breakfast menu—which includes the Bacun Maple Crunch, the Faconator, and the Ham Breakfast Sandwich—is extensive.

Silver Diner

Eastern US chain Silver Diner really delivers on the vegan breakfast options. If you want to keep it simple, there’s the standard (yet always delicious) pancake stack, or you can indulge in Just Egg Breakfast Tacos, which are served with BBQ Beyond Meat. If you’re extra hungry, you could add some tempeh bacon too.

Breakfast Republic

Breakfast Republic caters to all tastes and lifestyle choices, and its vegan menu doesn’t disappoint. There’s even a Harvest Omelet, complete with plant-based eggs, veggies, vegan sausage, pancakes, and a Vegan Breakfast Burrito with meatless beef strips.

Alfred Coffee

Popular LA coffee chain Alfred has something for everyone—including vegans. Grab an iced, dairy-free latte, and if your stomach is rumbling, there are choices like an Avo Bagel with chives and micro greens or a VLT bagel with avocado, lettuce, and tomato.

Caribou Coffee

Caribou Coffee started in Minnesota in the 1990s and has since expanded to around 485 locations across the US. If there’s a spot near you, head down in the morning for an Iced Oatmilk Crafted Press and a Just Egg Roasted Tomato & Pesto Flatbread, complete with vegan cheese.

Plant Power Fast Food

McDonald’s may be lacking in vegan breakfast options, but you still can grab a meaty, cheesy plant-based muffin, croissant, or bagel at California-based chain Plant Power Fast Food. Don’t forget the side of hash browns!

Jajaja Mexicana

For a taste of Mexico in the morning, head down to one of Jajaja Mexicana New York locations and grab a Breaky Burrito with vegan eggs and mushrooms, or treat yourself to a big stack of Kale Pancakes with coconut mango jam.

The Butcher’s Daughter

Despite the name, The Butcher’s Daughter is an entirely vegetarian chain, with locations in Venice, West Hollywood, Nolita, Williamsburg, and West Village. At the weekend, it serves a brunch menu, complete with vegan Loaded Banana Bread and Butcher’s Pancakes with coconut drizzle and berry sauce.

Planta

With 10 locations across the US and Canada, Planta is the place to go if you’re celebrating something special. Its indulgent plant-based brunch menu includes French Toast, Frittata, and Overnight Oats. If you prefer something a little less breakfast-y, there’s also a Poke Bowl with spicy ahi watermelon and hearts of palm.

Saxbys

It’s breakfast all day every day at Philadelphia-based Saxbys, so don’t worry if you want a super long lie-in. After you’ve emerged from your slumber though, you should definitely try the Plant-Powered Breakfast Grilled Cheese with dairy-free cheddar and Just Egg.

Turning Point

With 20 locations across New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware, Turning Point is a bit of a vegan breakfast paradise. There are plant-based omelets, sausages, patties, and Just Egg, but the star of the menu is the I Can’t Believe They’re Vegan Pancakes, served with fresh fruit.

Gregory’s Coffee

New York-based Gregory’s Coffee goes above and beyond with its breakfast menu, which is prepared under the guidance of its own in-house registered dietitian. The croissant Deluxe is one of its most popular menu items, but vegans don’t have to miss out, because the chain has made a plant-based version with vegan eggs, sausage, and cheese.

Jul, 2023

19 Vegan Fried Chicken Sandwiches That Are Better Than Chick-fil-A and Popeyes

Lucky for the vegan-inclined, there are impossibly tasty chicken sandwiches beyond Popeyes and Chick-fil-A, and no animals were harmed in the making of them. Not only are these 19 vegan twists on the classic chicken sandwich better for you, but they’re much kinder choices for the animals and the planet, too. And if you think you’ll be sacrificing taste or texture by biting into one of these bad boys, you’d be wrong. Bring a friend and a napkin—your taste buds (and your worldview) will never be the same again.

What is vegan chicken?

Vegan chicken does not come from any animals. Typically, homemade and store-bought plant-based chicken is made from tofu, seitan, soy, pea protein, or wheat that is shaped into everything from patties to roasts.

Is vegan chicken healthy?

Plant-based chicken can be healthy when eaten in moderation. With ingredients like the ones mentioned above, plant-based chicken can be more nutritionally beneficial with higher fiber, lower saturated fat, and no dietary cholesterol. A recent study found that plant-based meat is healthier and more sustainable than animal meat.

Vegan chicken brands

Nowadays, the options for vegan chicken are endless. From Mickey Mouse-shaped chicken nuggets to breaded chicken strips, there’s a vegan option out there for any craving. For more on all the plant-based chicken offerings, check out our https://bombaysandwichco.com/‘s guide to the best vegan chicken brands.

19 Vegan Fried Chicken Sandwiches That Are Better Than Chick-fil-A and Popeyes

Where to find vegan chicken sandwiches

When you’re craving a fried chicken sandwich, refer to the below 19 eateries offering the most mouthwatering options around.

Atlas Monroe

Multiple locations, plus nationwide shipping

This company may have engineered the perfect vegan fried chicken recipe, and it just happens to be plant-based. Not only was it the first vegan chicken producer to enter the competitive National Fried Chicken Festival in New Orleans in 2018, but it was also deemed Best Dish by Extra Crispy editor Ryan Grim. The menu has expanded from buckets to buns—putting its finger-licking, crispy-on-the-outside, juicy-on-the-inside vegan chicken between slices of bread. Plus, Atlas Monroe markets its famous chicken online for nationwide shipping. Cooks, to your dredging stations! There are a lot of orders to fill.

Veggie Grill

Multiple locations

One of the earliest vegan restaurants to compete in the chicken sandwich games, Veggie Grill’s signature menu item rivals even the buzzy newcomers. For over a decade, Veggie Grill has been the place where omnivores gently place their hand on their vegan friend’s knee, look them in the eye, and say, “This isn’t vegan.” The chain’s new slogan should be, “Veggie Grill: successfully duping omnivores since 2006.” The Santa Fe Chick’n is a standout sandwich comprised of a juicy, meaty chick’n patty, romaine, sliced tomato, red onion, mashed avocado, and spicy mayo on a toasted wheat bun. Dare we say it rivals Wendy’s chicken sandwich? Yes, yes we do.

Slutty Vegan

Multiple locations

It’s more than just the name that attracts attention; the food at this Atlanta fast-food concept is equally headline-grabbing. Opt for the Chik’N Head which offers a sweet and savory sandwich experience—the housemade crispy plant-based chicken is tossed in a spicy buffalo sauce, cooled down with a slather of vegan ranch and coleslaw, balanced with a bit of acid from a few pickles, and held between two slightly sweet and fluffy Hawaiian buns. As with all of its sandwiches, this handhold is served with a side of Slutty Fries.

Green New American Vegetarian

Phoenix, AZ

A play on a certain fast-food chain featuring a red-headed female mascot, the Wendy’s Pickle sandwich outshines the original. With only a few pickles, hot sauce, and mayo to accompany it, the southern-style breaded vegan chicken patty is truly the star of the sandwich. The toasted ciabatta bread acts as the perfect serving vessel. Order with one of the unique sides such as the thyme fries, fried brussels sprouts, tahini coleslaw, fruit, or Grandma’s Chili.

Souley Vegan

Oakland, CA

If plain isn’t your game, Souley Vegan’s Proud Mary might just suit your style. The sandwich starts off with a plant-based, crispy-yet-tender tofu patty. Underneath is a thick layer of barbecue tofu, pickles, and more special sauce. This monstrosity is barely contained between a soft cracked wheat burger bun. There are two ways to tackle this sandwich: take a knife and fork to it or unhinge your jaw.

The Southern V

Nashville, TN

The country music capital’s first vegan restaurant offers a bit of Southern charm along with a great fried chicken sandwich. Diners have a few options here—go for the reliable Chick’n Sandwich simply stacked with a seasoned and fried seitan-based chicken cutlet, chipotle mayo, lettuce, tomato, and onion; or the ‘Hot Chick’n Sandwich that includes all the above with a significantly spicy hot sauce. Pair your sandwich with a complimentary Southern-style side from mac and cheese to turnip greens.

J. Selby’s

St. Paul, MN

Sometimes you just crave a classic chicken sandwich, and J. Selby’s Crispy Chickin’ Sandwich will satisfy your tastebuds. This hot handhold consists of a perfectly fried and battered, crispy-on-the-outside-and-moist-on-the-inside plant-based chicken patty topped with lettuce, sweet pickles, and mayo on a bun.

Lettuce Feast

Los Angeles, CA

Truth be told, this vegan food truck goes relatively light on the lettuce. It’s all about that crispy, crackly vegan fried chicken. Wait patiently in line for your Nashville Sando or Classic Sando. Both are made with the company’s homemade crispy chicken patty and vegan buttered bun—though the OG is paired with pickles and secret sauce, while the Nashville comes with slaw, ranch, and your choice of hot sauce. Again, there’s no need to be a hero. The Original, Mild, Medium, and Hot Honey sauces are spicy enough. Only true heat-seekers should take on the more advanced hot sauce dipping options.

Stefano’s Sandwiches

Toronto, Canada

Compliments tend to hold more gravitas when coming from an omnivore, and when that omnivore happens to be a celebrity, you might as well call in the Michelin team to hand out a star. Actor Dan Levy of Schitt’s Creek fame gushed over this plant-based fried chicken sandwich co-created by Discovery Channel host Ziya Tong. The restaurant sources its vegan chicken from Barcelona-based company Heura and coats it in Tong’s top-secret spice blend. The meaty filling is accompanied by preserved chilies, vegan mayo, shredded lettuce, and pickles all held together by a crusty ciabatta roll.

Modern Love

Omaha, NE and Brooklyn ,NY

Tofu is a trickster—you’d never know this succulent, fried patty was soy in disguise. Modern Love’s take on the classic pairs fresh ingredients with golden-fried lusciousness. Don’t miss the restaurant’s other chicken dishes such as the Mushroom Fried Chick’n.

HipCityVeg

Multiple locations

Residents of Washington, DC and Philadelphia rejoice: this decadent sando is in your neck of the woods. Sink your teeth into the Crispy HipCity Ranch sandwich. It’s got all the classic toppings—lettuce, onion, and pickles—but the peppercorn ranch offers a pleasant touch of heat without moving into Nashville hot territory.

The BeetBox

Warr Acres, OK

Initially launched as a food truck by two young vegan entrepreneurs craving comfort in their college town, this middle-of-America kitchen serves the best vegan chicken sandwiches around (and it’s not just because they’re the only vegan concept around). Their chickenless sandwich menu allows patrons to customize their handhold with a variety of sauces and heat levels. Dare to go spicy or slather on the Eat Mor Chkn sauce that will remind you of a certain non-vegan chain that’s closed on Sundays. This vegan chicken sandwich is transforming its community one sandwich at a time.

Herbie Butcher’s Fried Chicken

Minneapolis, MN

After five years of success, America’s first vegan butchery has expanded. The Herbivorous Butcher co-founders Kale and Aubry Walch didn’t open another general butcher shop, though. They jumped into the vegan fried chicken market. From buckets to strips, wings, and sandwiches—Herbie Butcher’s has it all.

Hartbreakers

Brooklyn, NY

Fans of Champ’s Diner and Screamers Pizza have a new joint to check out. This ’70s-themed quick-service spot specializes in vegan fried chicken in all forms—buckets, bowls, tenders, and sandwiches. The namesake Hartbreaker made with fried chik’n, cheese, pickles, sambal mayo, and hot honee will erase any memories of Popeye’s or Chick-fil-A.

Wolfie’s

Los Angeles, CA

For those who love to customize, Wolfie’s has options. From Nashville to Seoul, there’s a vegan fried chicken sandwich for every taste and level of spice tolerance. Each handhold features a juicy, crispy chicken patty accompanied with something spicy, something creamy and cool, something fresh and crispy, and something pickled. This combination of flavors and textures will light your dopamine receptors on fire.

PLNT Burger

Multiple locations

Beyond a reputable vegan fried chicken sandwich, PLNT Burger has something Popeye’s doesn’t have—soft serve. Choose from the original Crispy Chick’n Sandwich or add some heat with the Spicy Chick’n Sandwich before you jump into dessert.

Winter Park Biscuit Co.

Orlando, FL

Come for the vegan biscuits, return for the succulent vegan fried chicken. For a classic chicken sando opt for the Crispy Chik Sandwich. It features a housemade chicken cutlet, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and mayo on a brioche bun. But be sure you don’t miss The OG featuring a crispy cutlet stuffed between oat buttermilk biscuits with your choice of sauce.

Monty’s Good Burger

Multiple location, Southern California

The vegan equivalent of In-N-Out has entered the vegan fried chicken sandwich wars. Coined Charlie’s Chicken Sandwich, the housemade fried chicken is a departure from the chain’s menu which has formerly relied on Impossible Foods patties to create its addictively good burgers. The crispy chicken sandwich has little to detract from the main feature—the only condiments include pickles and vegan mayonnaise. Beyond the seasonal rotation of specialty dairy-free milkshakes, Charlie’s Chicken Sandwich is the first new menu item since Monty’s first opened its original Los Angeles location in 2018.

Hart House

Los Angeles and Monrovia, CA

At Kevin Hart’s plant-based chain, customers can choose between the Deluxe Crispy Chick’n and the spicy Deluxe Hot Crispy Chick’n. Both sandos feature a housemade chicken patty, vegan-friendly honey mustard, pickles, and the chain’s Kale Krunch Slaw. For added spice, the Deluxe Hot Crispy Chick’n features a patty dipped in Hart Hot Sauce. Order with a refreshing iced tea and a side of fries to complete your meal.

Jul, 2023

15 Can’t Miss Restaurants for Vegan Food in San Francisco 2023

It’s true; San Francisco has a little bit of everything packed into its seven-by-seven square miles— it’s a mix of culture and community, including a vibrant vegan food scene.

San Francisco is incredibly vegan-friendly — it has graced many “Top 10 Places to Visit if You’re a Vegan” lists, and most recently, Forbes ranked it as the #3 city to live in if you’re vegan or vegetarian. That’s saying something! If you’re planning a visit, here are 15 restaurants to check out this website https://bombaysandwichco.com/ for breakfast, lunch, and dinner that have the best vegan food in San Francisco!

The Best Vegan & Vegan-Friendly Restaurants in San Francisco

If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss this fantastic lineup of vegan bakeries, ice cream, and donuts in San Francisco!

#1 Nourish Café

1030 Hyde St, San Francisco, CA 94109
189 6th Ave, San Francisco, CA 94118

What do they offer? Full breakfast menu, weekend brunch, & dinner during the week
This is the place to go for a full vegan breakfast — they have everything! From bowls filled with warm coconut milk, roasted nuts, berries, and quinoa to a massive selection of toasts that will make your taste buds dance.

This is an excellent place to fuel your body for a full day of sightseeing, but no worries if you don’t roll out of bed in time! They also serve tons of wraps, sandwiches, and bowls.
Gluten-free options available

#2 VeganBurg

1466 Haight St, San Francisco, CA 94117

What do they offer? Casual lunch and dinner options.
For a creative lineup of burgers, look no further than The VeganBurg! Forget ketchup and mustard and dive into a Hawaiian teriyaki, avocado beetroot, or creamy shrooms, but you can’t have just the burger; it needs a sidekick! Tag on an order of savory seaweed fries, or kick it up a notch with loaded jalapeno or creamy garlic fries!
Gluten-free options available

#3 Gracias Madre

2211 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110

What do they offer? Creative Mexican-inspired eats for lunch, dinner, & weekend brunch
Everything they make at Gracias Madre comes from their organic farm in Pleasant Valley, and their tortillas and tamales are handmade with non-GMO heirloom corn.

The menu is a creative mix of traditional and modern — a classic quesadilla but tucked inside is butternut squash with a spicy cashew cheese or tacos filled with jackfruit carnitas and topped with crispy onions and a tangy crema. Just make sure you leave a tiny sliver of room for dessert. On the weekend, make sure you don’t miss their fantastic vegan brunch menu — it’s stellar!
Gluten-free options available

#4 Venga Empanadas

443 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94103

What do they offer? vegan-friendly empanadas for lunch or dinner (they are open for breakfast too — but no vegan breakfast option.
This vegan-friendly restaurant has the most bomb empanadas! Multiple vegan options are stuffed with house-made beans, sweet plantains, and creamy avocado. This is one of the best things I have eaten. I liked it so much that I tried to recreate it and failed. They must use magic!
Gluten-free options available

#5 Wildseed

2000 Union St, San Francisco, CA 94123

What do they offer? Casual lunch, dinner, and weekend vegan brunch.
You’re in for a feast with his lineup of beautiful roasted root bowls, savory Bolognese, and delicious pizzas with creamy, house-made cashew mozzarella. Have no fear, my gluten-free friends; there is a vegan and gluten-free pizza crust option!

Everything on the menu is also made with seasonal and local ingredients as much as possible. Don’t miss their mouthwatering brunch on the weekends!
Gluten-free options available

#6 Enjoy Vegetarian Restaurant

839 Kearny St, San Francisco, CA 94108
754 Kirkham St #3619, San Francisco, CA 94122

What do they offer? vegan-friendly Chinese for lunch & dinner.
This family-run Chinese restaurant is so delicious that even the most die-hard meat eater won’t miss the meat! The family draws inspiration for the menu from their Buddhist roots — it features lettuce wraps with mushrooms and vegan chicken, kung pao lamb, soups, and so much more. The entire menu is vegetarian, and almost all items are vegan.

#7 Golden Era Vegan

395 Golden Gate Ave, San Francisco, CA 94102

What do they offer? Asian-inspired lunch & dinner.
Long before many of these vegan restaurants in San Francisco started popping up, Golden Era was pushing its message of peace through its veggie-focused Asian dishes. The extensive plant-based menu features a flavorful mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, Indian, and Thai dishes — you’ll have no trouble finding something delicious.

Start with an order of fresh spring rolls with their savory peanut sauce, then good luck deciding between a spicy papaya salad, traditional Bánh Xèo (Vietnamese crepe), or spicy lemongrass tofu — maybe come with friends and get them all!

#8 BAIA

300 Grove St, San Francisco, CA 94102

What do they offer? dinner during the week and weekend brunch.
The Italian comfort food cooked here would please anyone’s Italian grandmother — I doubt they would know it’s vegan! You will drool just reading the menu — old school garlic knots, traditional lasagna with a rich Bolognese in a creamy bechamel, then finish with a slice of spumoni that will surely send your taste buds dancing.
Gluten-free options available

#9 Shizen Vegan Sushi Bar and Izakaya

370 14th St, San Francisco, CA 94103

What do they offer? vegan Japanese dinner spot during the week and weekend.
Fishless sushi? You got it! This creative menu is so much more than avocado rolls — the team has reinvented everything from the fan-favorite California rolls to a spicy tofuna.

You can’t leave without tasting one of their 12 specialty rolls like the Secret Weapon, filled with marinated mushroom, avocado, spicy shredded tofu, pickled jalapeño, pickled pineapple, sweet shoyu, and habanero sauce.
Gluten-free options available

#10 Senor Sisig

990 Valencia Street, San Francisco, CA 94110

What do they offer? Casual vegan-friendly lunch & dinner.
This vegan-friendly Filipino and Mexican-inspired restaurant started as a food truck and now has a location in the San Francisco Ferry Building, the Mission, and Oakland! The head chef found inspiration for the menu from his Filipino heritage and food central to his childhood.

Although his food favorites weren’t vegan-friendly (sigh), they did create a full vegan menu! The vegano menu is a fusion of Mexican and Filipino flavors to create an irresistible mix of burritos, tacos, nachos, and fries. If you’re into flavor and heat, don’t miss this spot!

#11 Judahlicious

3906 Judah St, San Francisco, CA 94122

What do they offer? breakfast & lunch with a ton of raw vegan options.
After a few too many slices of vegan ‘za and loaded burgers, you’re probably going to feel like you need a reset, and there is no better place to go than Judahlicious!

This raw plant-based café and juice bar has all the colorful things you need to feel right as rain! Start with a Farm juice (greens, carrot, beet, daikon, ginger, and garlic) to get your system going, then check out one of their daily specials or grab an order of raw tacos wrapped in collard greens. While some might think a raw café might lack hutzpah in the flavor department, this spot is all about harnessing the power of flavor!
Gluten-free options available

#12 Vegan Mob

701 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94110

What do they offer? vegan Soul Food for lunch & dinner.
This vegan food truck and restaurant aims to empower the community to take control of their health through their food choices. Inspired by its owner’s health improvements after adopting a plant-based diet, the Vegan Mob started as a food truck on the streets of San Francisco and grew into a brick-and-mortar location in Oakland.

Their menu is all about celebrating BBQ and Soul Food dishes people love, like fried chick’n, shrimp po’boys, gumbo, and more. The Oakland location is a full-service restaurant, and you can find the food truck throughout San Francisco; check their Instagram for its location.
Gluten-free options available

#13 Rad Radish

301 Hayes St, San Francisco, CA 94102

What do they offer? breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch!
This colorful and modern fast-casual vegan eatery is brought to you by the same folks who run Wildseed (so if you love WIldseed, it’s guaranteed you’ll probably love this spot). The veggie-focused menu focuses on ensuring you enjoy your meal while getting the recommended allotment of seasonal superfoods — what’s not to love about that?

You’ll find just about everything on this globally-inspired menu — veggie-packed salads, creative Neatball masala, spicy sausage flatbread, and hearty burgers! Breakfast is also served every day, and brunch is on the weekend.
Gluten-free options available

#14 Peña Pachamama

1630 Powell St, San Francisco, CA 94133

What do they offer? live music with a full dinner menu.
Looking for a spot to have a complete night on the town? Look no further than Peña Pachamama! This Bolivian restaurant features an entirely plant-based menu, with half of the options cooked and the other half raw.

You’ll find savory yuca fries with cashew cream, Bolivian-style Portapancho (tempura portobello), empanadas, and coconut cream pie! But that’s not all — every Friday and Saturday night, they host an array of talented musicians and their own Pachamama Band! The infectious music will have you on your feet; this will be an experience you won’t forget!
Gluten-free options available

#15 Mr. Charlie’s

432 Sutter St, San Francisco, CA 94108

What do they offer? vegan fast food for lunch & dinner.
Move over Mickey D’s, Mr. Charlie’s has come to San Francisco to spread its vegan fast food love! The vegan fast food chain is a spoof on the golden arches and has recreated all of the classic food options, right down to a Frowny Meal — how can you say no to that?

Aside from Not a Cheeseburgers and Not a Double Burgers, you’ll also want to devour their spicy chick’n nuggets, just don’t forget an order of those classic, salty shoestring fries!

Bonus! Vegan-Friendly Hotel in San Francisco

If you’re in need of a hotel recommendation, I’ve got a great one for you! Check out this spot that is vegan-friendly and eco-friendly

Hotel Spero

405 Taylor St, San Francisco, CA 94102
This spot is located downtown, the perfect place to base yourself to explore the city. Aside from its location, it is also committed to protecting Mother Nature with multiple sustainability initiatives — minimizing single-use plastics, partners with Recology, and has achieved 75% waste diversion through composting and recycling, water conservation efforts, and many other programs. On top of that, all their toiletry products are Leaping Bunny certified, and the onsite restaurant has many vegetarian options — a few appear to be vegan or could be made vegan.

More California Vegan Dreams

San Francisco isn’t the only super vegan-friendly city in California! Be sure you don’t miss these guides and articles to other top cities in the state.

Jul, 2023

The 13 Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Chiang Mai

The vegetarian scene in the northern city of Chiang Mai is a thriving one. Visitors cannot stroll far in this quaint city before stumbling upon yet another meat-free venue. Whether you are a vegetarian, the strictest of vegans, or a carnivore trying to implement Meatless Mondays, here are https://bombaysandwichco.com/ presenting the best vegetarian restaurants in Chiang Mai.

Free Bird Cafe

Free Bird Cafe is a venue with a cause – one that feeds your belly, heart, and mind. This social enterprise cafe came to be in 2009, and all of the profits go towards supporting language and art learning centres for refugees from Burma at the Thai Freedom House. The cafe began with the hopes of bringing financial support to the learning centre for refugees from Myanmar and the ethnic people of Thailand, all the while serving up delicious, 100 percent vegan cuisine.

The cafe is a social enterprise in every aspect. Every ingredient used in the dishes here are top quality and were ethically, responsibility, and thoughtfully sourced. Profits from the Pre-Loved Shop at the back of the cafe further aid their projects. Feel free to donate any household item including cookery, dishes, towels, bedding, clothing, and more when you visit. The entire menu is served all day long, including their delicious breakfast. Favourite dishes include their Burmese chickpea salad (฿95), the cacao smoothie bowl (฿250), and their delicious desserts, like the homemade vegan gluten-free brownie (฿100). Free Bird Cafe’s drink menu includes coffee, tea, milkshakes, smoothies, and more.

Location: 116 Maneenopparat Road, Chiang Mai, Thailand —
Contact: +66 81 028 5383
Hours: Closed on Sundays and Mondays | Open Tuesday to Saturday from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Sri Chiang Yeun House

If Free Bird Cafe is full and you are unlikely to get a seat anytime soon, then walk on over to Sri Chiang Yeun House. Though seemingly less trendy (as it was quite empty when we ventured here) the seating area certainly trumps Free Bird Cafe’s for the simple fact that there is more of it. The furniture is all made of dark wood and black and blue ironwork, with floor-to-ceiling paneled doors allowing for light to shine in on diners. The meals here are strictly meat-free, with small, photo indicators of which dishes are vegan and which ones are vegetarian, as well.

The menu includes Thai and Western appetizers, salads, fried dishes, noodles, rice dishes, soups, roti, steak, desserts, and more. They are also serving up coffee, tea, and juices. Food starts at ฿69 and favorites include the stir-fried mushroom with chili and basil leaves (฿99), stir-fried sweet and sour (฿99), and the mixed spicy herb rice (฿119). The restaurant doubles as a hotel.

Location: 138/5,6,7, Amphoe Muang Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai, Thailand —
Contact: +66 53 214 624

Aum Vegetarian

If you are on the hunt for the best vegetarian cheap eats in Chiang Mai, Aum Vegetarian is one restaurant serving up delicious food that won’t drain your wallet. The venue came to be in 1982 and has been impressing meat-free diners since its conception. The restaurant is tucked away a quiet soi (street) and looks like a house rather than an eatery, but don’t let its inconspicuous exterior fool you: this venue has some of the best vegetarian food in town. The menu indicates which dishes are vegan and which ones are vegetarian, and none of the dishes feature MSG. Diners love the signature maki rolls, which feature everything from avocado to pumpkin.

Location: 1/4 Suriyawong Road Haiya, Chiang Mai, Thailand —
Contact: +66 53 278 315
Hours: Daily from 10:30 a.m. until 8:30 p.m.

Khun Kae’s Juice Bar

Drink your way to happiness at Khun Kae’s Juice Bar. This tiny shop is serving up arguably the freshest juice in the city, and visitors can watch as their fresh glass of fruits and veggies is blended right before their eyes. This almost vegan shop (except for bee pollen) has a number of tropical and tasty favorites to choose from, including the chocolate smoothie bowl (฿80). In addition to being delicious, Khun Kae’s Juice Bar is also one of the healthiest vegetarian restaurants on our list. If you are still not sold, then the prices here will surely entice even the most broke of backpackers to visit, with juices starting at less than $1. You can also get shots filled with healthy goodness, like the sunflower sprout shot for only ฿30.

Location: Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand —
Contact: +66 84 378 3738
Hours: Daily from 10 a.m. until 7:30 p.m.

Taste From Heaven

Taste From Heaven is a vegan and vegetarian restaurant featuring delicious, home-cooked food that does not contain MSG, chemicals, or preservatives. Every single dish on the menu can be made vegan, as the chef is happy to substitute or omit ingredients in any meal. Phayungchit Khidhen (aka Nan) is the owner. She originally opened a vegan restaurant in 2003 in Australia before moving to Chiang Mai and opening Taste From Heaven in 2008. The restaurant was moved to its current location in 2014.

Be sure to add s faux meat options to your meal, like the vegan sausage (฿40 each) or rashers of vegan bacon (฿30 for two). Western dishes include burgers, a vegan hotdog, sandwiches, pasta, and even a chicken wrap. There are also light meals and appetizers, soups, salads, curries, stir-fries, rice and noodles, and last but not least, desserts. Vegan ice cream and a vegan chocolate brownie will certainly appeal to all meat-free diners with a sweet tooth, while those hoping for something a bit more healthy may instead opt for a fresh-pressed juice or kombucha.

Location: 34/1 Ratmakka Road (opposite Ratmakka Soi 1), Amphoe Muang Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai, Thailand —
Contact: +66 091 859 8920
Hours: Daily from 8:30 a.m. until 10 p.m.

Dada Kafe

Found a stone’s throw away from Taste From Heaven is Dada Kafe. The restaurant features an extensive array of Thai and Western dishes that all have two things in common: the delicious taste and lack of meat. The restaurant is so proud of their food, in fact, that we were not allowed to even take photographs of the menu in fear that we would steal their recipes! Alas, be prepared to find fresh juices and more when you dine here. We recommend trying the vegetarian Khao Soi, a popular dish in Northern Thailand that is made with rice or egg noodles and coconut milk. Dried noodles are added to the top making for an interesting combination of both texture and flavor.

Location: 20/1 Ratmakka Rd, Phra Singh, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand —
Contact: +66 53 449 718
Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. | Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. until 8:45 p.m. | Sundays from 9 a.m. until 2:45 p.m.

Bee Vegan

Located a short drive from the city center but worth the commute is Bee Vegan. This restaurant is essentially a handful of tables tucked inside what seems to be an old garage. The walls have since been painted white and a few wicker-rimmed lights were hung from the ceiling. What this restaurant lacks in decor or ambiance, if you will, it makes up for in price and delicious vegan food. The menu does not feature a single photograph, so customers have to use their imagination when picturing what it is each dish on the extensive menu looks like. Fret not, as each one is delicious!

Visitors will find appetizers, salads, stir-frys, deep-fried items, noodles, soups, curries, spicy and sour salads, and more. Be sure to try one of their shakes and smoothies, with everything from detox to anti-cancer drinks available for as little as ฿40 (about $1). To order, you have to grab the blue paper from the main counter and write down the letter and number of what it is you want, as the staff hardly speaks a word of English. The staff actually got my order incorrect, but my meal was delicious all the same, so no complaints here. Grab a vegan banana cupcake or cookie to-go, as well.

Location: 19, 1 Suthep Rd, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand —
Contact: +66 96 795 7704
Hours: Daily from 11 a.m. until 9:30 p.m. (kitchen closes at 8:45 p.m.)

Amrita Garden

Arguably the quaintest restaurant on our list is Amrita Garden. This vegan restaurant is sneaking ingredients like soy into their yogurt and homemade tofu mayonnaise onto their vegan burger. Reset your body with their probiotic lunch set menu or instead indulge in their delicious bolognese with organic rice pasta (our favorite dish). This restaurant is king of the vegan sweets, as well, with everything from vegan cupcakes to vegan mango cheesecake to indulge in that are only about $1. The restaurant also doubles as a hotel.

Location: 2/1 Soi 5, Samlan Road, T. Phrasing, A Muang, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand —
Contact: +66 90 321 2857
Hours: Closed Tuesdays | Wednesdays to Mondays from 11:30 a.m. until 9 p.m.

Anchan Vegetarian

With a slogan like, “vegetarian food so delicious, you won’t miss the meat,” everyone attempting to give up their carnivorous ways need to check out Anchan Vegetarian. There are only a handful of tables, so be sure to avoid any peak dining hours if you want a seat. The restaurant only takes up a floor of a building and features an open-air dining style, with the entirety of one wall opening up to the city. The menu is written up on a chalkboard behind diners and changes depending on what vegetables are in season. The large portion sizes of every dish are matched with surprisingly affordable prices, and no diner will leave without a swollen (and happy) belly.

Location: Nimmana Haeminda Between Lane 6 – Lane 10, Suthep, Mueang Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand —
Contact: +66 83 581 1689
Hours: Daily from 11:30 a.m. until 8:15 p.m.

Da’s Home Bakery

Da’s Home Bakery’s selection of vegan treats is simply mind-blowing. Better yet, the restaurant also serves up an array of baked goods that is simply heaven for those vegans who normally avoid treats like these because of the added egg and dairy products. Da’s Home Bakery also has breakfast, muesli, egg dishes, avocado dishes, sandwiches, French toast, porridge and oatmeal, pancakes, and your usual selection of fresh coffee and tea on their menu. There are also healthy and fruit shakes, 100 percent fresh fruit juice, and herbal teas to choose from.

There is a section of the menu dedicated to homemade bread, muesli, and yogurt dishes. The peanut butter chocolate balls are to die for, and they are only ฿25 each. The cinnamon roll (฿40) is also a great sweet go-to. Be sure to ask the owner to heat it up for you! We recommend the tofu and avocado sandwich with mustard dressing (฿90) or any one of the pancakes featuring everything from apple and cinnamon to chocolate and cashew nuts.

Location: 11/4 Soi 6 Moon Muang Road, Muang Chiangmai Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand —
Contact: +66 081 980 2588
Hours: Daily from 6:30 a.m. until 8 p.m. (kitchen closes at 6 p.m.)

Reform Kafe

Nestled inside the Green Tiger House accommodation option is Reform Kafe. It is conveniently located near the popular North Gate of the city and is serving up an array of delicious vegan cuisine. The quality food is matched by the equally inviting dining area, with green foliage hanging throughout. All of the dishes are MSG free and made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients.

The menu features starters, salads, soups, curries, fried noodles, noodle soups, stir-fries, rice dishes, fries, raw items, burgers, sandwiches, pasta, and desserts. Pair any one of these with an organic coffee, tea, lassi, or fresh juice. Feel great after indulging in a healthy drink, whether it be kombucha (฿80) or fermented kefir beverage. Favorite dishes include the fried mushroom sandwich (฿100) and the pumpkin soup with curry (฿100).

Location: 1/4 Sripoom Road Lane 7, Chiang Mai, Thailand —
Contact: +66 93 182 8299
Hours: Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m. | Sundays from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m.

Goodsouls Kitchen

Goodsouls Kitchen is a huge hit amongst vegan diners with a sweet tooth. This restaurant is the sister business of Reform Kafe, and it certainly lives up to its high standards. The vegan restaurant has some interesting finds on its extensive menu, with dishes featuring things like homemade vegan cashew nut cream sauce and ice cream made with coconut milk.

Speaking of desserts, this is arguably the best spot in the city to frequent if you are wanting something sweet. In addition to ice cream, visitors will find vegan mango and passion fruit cheesecake (raw), carrot cake, chocolate brownies, and more on the menu. Vegan desserts that are both so convincing and delicious are certainly hard to find in Thailand, but not anymore thanks to Goodsouls. The restaurant is also serving up interesting faux meat options like their steaks made mushrooms, beetroot, chickpeas, and more.

Location: 52/2 Singharat Road, Chiang Mai, Thailand —
Contact: +66 88 819 9669
Hours: Daily from 9 a.m. until 10 p.m.

J Station Vegetarian Restaurant

Do not let its exterior fool you: J Station Vegetarian Restaurant is serving up some of the best meat-free dishes in town. This eatery is basically just a hole in the wall but it offers loads of Thai vegetarian food. It is found near the North Gate. When you visit, simply point and choose which dishes you want to try. Fill up on a plate of tasty finds for only a few bucks or less. This buffet-style dining restaurant is also serving up loads of fresh fruit.

Location: 248/3 Sahasriphun Place, Maneenopparat Rd, Amphoe Muang Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai, Thailand —
Contact: +66 87 577 7788
Hours: Monday to Saturday from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m.

Jul, 2023

33 Best Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurants in Ubud, Bali

Ubud rivals Chiang Mai and San Francisco as our favourite vegetarian-friendly destination in the world.

During our visits we tried over 50 of the best restaurants in Ubud, many of which were entirely vegetarian or vegan, or had plenty of meat-free options.

Ubud isn’t a big city—it’s a collection of villages that, outside the small congested centre, has a rural feel with rice paddies dominating the landscape.

The food scene is surprisingly varied—as well as Balinese dishes we found excellent Mexican, Indian, and Italian food; beautifully presented raw vegan meals; and even vegetarian tasting menus at fancy fine dining restaurants.

It’s easy to eat healthily with many restaurants serving organic food from local ingredients. The influence of the yoga scene means green juices, superfood salads, macrobiotic meals, and gluten-free options abound.

All this delicious vegan food in Ubud is very affordable with Indonesian meals from $2 and western and raw dishes around $4, although many restaurants charge an extra 10% tax and 5% (occasionally 10%) service charge (I’ve noted when in the listings below). A meal for two with one or two courses plus juices costs from $7-20.

Most restaurants deliver and they usually open all day from breakfast to dinner. I’ve noted if they close on a particular day.

This bombaysandwichco.com post shares my picks for the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Ubud, Bali. At the end, you will find a map with everywhere mentioned.

Vegetarian Indonesian Dishes to Try

Indonesians eat plenty of meat, but their diet also includes tofu, tempeh, vegetables, and rice so it’s easy to adapt dishes for vegetarians.

Although we had a lot less choice once we left the Ubud bubble, there are usually a few local dishes we could eat.

We love tempeh which originates from Indonesia. This soybean patty is like a fermented version of tofu; it’s considered to be healthier as it is less processed and the beans are whole—I prefer its firmer texture.

Nasi Campur – A staple of the diet here, this is the Balinese thali, a plate of rice with various small vegetable, tempeh, and tofu dishes, and a dollop of spicy sambal. It’s often the best option for vegetarian food in Ubud and is very affordable.
Gado Gado – Cold vegetables with peanut sauce.
Jukut Arab – A Balinese salad of lightly blanched vegetables (typically bean sprouts and green beans) and grated coconut.
Tempeh Satay – Tempeh skewers with peanut sauce. I don’t know how easy this is to find in the rest of Indonesia, but it’s common in Ubud.
Nasi Goreng – Fried rice that can be made with just vegetables.
Mie Goreng – Fried noodles that can be made with just vegetables.

Our Top 5 Ubud Vegetarian Restaurants

These are the restaurants that we kept going back to. While they are not all entirely vegan, they all have good meat-free choices.

1) Melting Wok

Tempeh coconut noodle curry

Don’t miss Melting Wok! The tempeh coconut curry with rice noodles is our favourite dish in Ubud—it’s full of flavour, packed with vegetables, crispy tempeh and fresh herbs, and served with a delicious spicy pickled salad.

They only serve curry (plus a few meaty specials), but you can customise it with your choice of meats, tempeh or tofu, rice or noodles, and how spicy you’d like it (a blessing in Ubud where the curries are often bland).

It’s proof of our theory that the smaller the menu, the better the food.

The staff are absolutely lovely—from the welcoming French owner Geraldine to the friendly, attentive servers who explain the menu in detail. The desserts are tasty too, and it’s all good value.

Melting Wok is one of the best restaurants in Ubud for vegetarians and is very popular so make a reservation (usually a day in advance is enough) by emailing Geraldine at [email protected] or calling 082 144 174 906.

Cuisine: Meat, fish and vegetarian Indonesian.
Cost for a Main Dish: 53,000 IDR.
Details: 13 Jalan Gootama. Closed Mondays.

2) Sage

House salad, tempeh tacos, and tempeh buffalo wings
Sage would not be out of place in California. Their menu is refreshingly different from other places in town, with a mix of Mexican inspired dishes and healthy vegetable bowls.

Everything is great at this vegan cafe in Ubud, but we particularly love their tempeh tacos, cauliflower fritas (oh, that chipotle sauce), potato flautas, and go jolly green giant bowl full of veggies, quinoa, and tempeh or tofu (get the garlic tahini dressing).

The cakes are my favourite in Ubud—especially the coconut and the cinnamony apple—and it’s one of the few places where you can find non-raw vegan cakes.

Sage also gets our vote for the best breakfast in Ubud—the brekky burrito with scrambled tofu and hash browns is amazing, the green smoothie bowl is a healthy way to start the day, and the blueberry pancakes are fluffy and delicious.

Sage’s decor is simple but elegant with comfy booths and lots of light. Their WiFi was variable, but when it worked was much faster than most places in town (10 Mbps down) and we often worked here.

They also offer delivery or pick-up including farm boxes full of delicious fresh seasonal produce.

Cuisine: Vegan Mexican and International.
Cost for a Main Dish: 65,000-75,000 IDR + 16%.
Details: 1 Jalan Nyuh Bulan.

3) The Elephant

Sweet potato fritters, polenta chips, spring rolls, and toasted sourdough with tomato and feta.
The Elephant is a classy Ubud vegetarian restaurant with a great view overlooking the Camphuan Ridge.

The menu is a mix of Asian and Western dishes and I actually preferred the pasta and gnocchi here to the Italian restaurants in Ubud.

The salads were my favourite in town with mixed greens and interesting toppings, and we loved the tofu spaghetti bolognese, pesto gnocchi, polenta chips, smashed potatoes, and all the cakes we tried (raw chocolate, carrot, and lemon almond).

Vegan and gluten-free dishes are marked on the menu.

As a bonus, you can use the pool at the attached hotel for 30,000 IDR.

Cuisine: Vegetarian International.
Cost for a Main Dish: 65,000-100,000 IDR.
Details: Hotel Taman Indrakila, Jalan Raya Sanggingan.

4) Taco Casa

Nachos!

The best Mexican food in Asia? Quite possibly. Taco Casa makes surprisingly good Tex-Mex classics (tacos, burritos, enchiladas, quesadillas, nachos) using fresh homemade ingredients.

They do serve meat but everything can be made with stir-fried veggies instead.

Simon is obsessed with their nachos which are perfectly topped with melted cheese, refried beans, guacamole, pico de gallo, and jalapeños (and sour cream if you want it).

I love their mammoth 8-layer burrito packed with red rice, black beans, vegetables, guacamole, pico, cheddar cheese, and lettuce.

The service is quick and friendly and it’s always busy (you might struggle to get a table later in the evening).

Cuisine: Meat and vegetarian Mexican.
Cost for a Main Dish: From 74,000 IDR for a burrito + 15.5%.
Details: Jalan Pengosekan.

5) Warung Sharaswaty

Aloo gobi, bengan tamatar, and chapatis
We can’t go too long without an Indian food fix, so we were happy to discover the family-run Warung Sharaswaty, one of the best vegetarian restaurants in Ubud.

The food is flavourful and delicious—we particularly enjoyed the samosas, bengan tamatar (an eggplant and tomato dish), dhal, and chapati.

Most dishes can be made vegan and you can choose your spice level.

The food is cooked to order so it can be slow. The open-air bamboo loft, with comfy bean bag chairs and colourful fabrics draped from the ceiling, is a great place to relax while you wait.

Cuisine: Vegetarian Indian.
Cost for a Main Dish: 40,000 IDR + 10%.
Details: Jalan Raya Penestanan.

Cheap Eats in Ubud

A great cheap eat option is nasi campur—rice with lots of small vegetable and tempeh dishes—in the traditional manner displayed in a glass cabinet and served cold (although some of these restaurants serve it hot).

Another option if you are travelling with meat-eaters is Puspa’s Warung in the centre of Ubud. Nasi campur is only 40,000 IDR and they have meat or vegan options.

6) Wulan Vegetarian Warung

Wulan’s 7 dish nasi campur is some of the best vegan food in Ubud
Wulan Vegetarian Warung is a small vegan place with colourful decor and a short menu written on a blackboard.

We love the 7 item nasi campur, which includes red rice, sweetcorn fritter, crispy tempeh, and various vegetable dishes, and the spicy-hottie veg tempeh.

The food is simple but tasty and the aloe vera juice was delicious.

Cuisine: Vegan Indonesian.
Cost for a Main Dish: 35,000-55,000 IDR.
Details: 1 Jalan Sugriwa.

7) Warung Sopa

Nasi campur
Warung Sopa serves good vegetarian nasi campur from a cabinet for 9000 IDR per item.

You can choose from curries like tofu, banana leaf, eggplant, and lentil, as well as samosas, spring rolls, and fried tempeh, all served with red rice.

They also have lots of soups and a few other dishes on their menu.

Cuisine: Vegetarian Indonesian.
Cost for a Main Dish: 33,000 IDR for four nasi campur items. 29,000 IDR for a large soup.
Details: 36 Jalan Sugriwa.

8) PriMa Warung Pure Vegetarian

Nasi campur
PriMa is a very simple vegan warung run by a friendly lady.

It’s only open at lunch and just serves nasi campur—a bowl of pumpkin soup plus a massive plate of red rice, vegetables, tempeh, and a corn fritter.

There was so much food we could have shared, making it great value.

Cuisine: Vegan Indonesian.
Cost for a Main Dish: 35,000 IDR.
Details: Jalan Raya Penestanan. Lunch only. Closed Sundays.

9) Dayu’s Warung

Dayu’s Warung serves healthy, organic, gluten-free meals with plenty of vegetarian options including salads, soups, and Indonesian classics.

The nasi campur is one of my favourites in Ubud, but some of the other dishes can be bland, and the service is slow.

They also have gluten-free and vegan desserts.

Cuisine: Meat, fish and vegetarian Indonesian and International.
Cost for a Main Dish: 30,000-40,000 IDR + 10%.
Details: 18 Jalan Sugriwa.

10) Warung Bintangbali

French fries and My Mom’s Terong
Warung Bintangbali is the cheapest place we ate in Ubud—it was only a few minutes’ walk from our house so we ate here a lot.

It’s a lovely setting with colourful fabrics draped from the bamboo structure and lovely views of the rice paddies.

It does serve meat but there’s a whole page of vegetarian options at bargain prices and everything is organic with vegetables from a nearby garden.

We liked the vege curry, My Mom’s Terong (an eggplant, tempeh and pineapple stir fry), sweet and spicy grilled corn, and the excellent french fries which are proper chunky chips.

On Monday nights there’s live music.

Cuisine: Meat, fish and vegetarian Indonesian.
Cost for a Main Dish: 25,000-80,000 IDR + 5%.
Details: Jalan Tirta Tawar, Junjungan village. Closed Sundays.

11) Abe-Do Organic Warung

Abe-Do is a tiny art-filled warung run by very friendly owners who took the time to chat with us.

Their menu includes lots of juices (and they deliver for juice detoxes), salads, and a number of vegetarian Indonesian dishes.

The tempeh satay was the best we had in Ubud and is served with rice, sayar urub (beansprouts and green bean salad), and a tasty peanut sauce.

All the vegetables come from an organic farm 2 km away and everything is cooked fresh to order.

Cuisine: Meat, fish and vegetarian Indonesian.
Cost for a Main Dish: 25,000-37,000 IDR.
Details: Jalan Tirta Tawar.

12) Umah Pizza

Umah Pizza has great value pizza—just 44,000 IDR for a large margherita, when everywhere else charges at least 50,000 plus tax.

We didn’t expect much for the price, but we actually preferred it to Mamma Mia, which is generally considered to have the best pizza.

In truth, although we enjoyed all the pizzas we tried in Ubud (Pizza Bagus also does great value pizza and pasta), they lacked the wow factor—for that you’ll have to travel a few hours away to Classico Italiano on the tiny island Gili Air.

Cuisine: Meat and vegetarian Italian.
Cost for a Main Dish: 44,000-70,000 IDR.
Details: Jalan Bisma.

13) Siboghana Waroeng

The family compound where Siboghana Waroeng is located

Siboghana is one of the best vegan restaurants in Ubud. It’s set in a family compound south of the centre and the Balinese dishes feel like home-cooking.

Everything is plant-based and cooked in coconut oil with no MSG. The food is flavourful, delicious and incredibly good value. The only downside is that the food takes a while but that’s because everything is cooked to order.

You can’t go wrong but the nasi campur is a highlight with red rice, vegetable curry, sayur urap vegetables, tempeh, satay, crispy mushrooms, begedil potato cutlet, and a dollop of spicy ginger sambal.

Cuisine: Vegan Balinese.
Cost for a Main Dish: 20–30,000 IDR.
Details:36 Jalan Made Lebah.

14) Sawobali Cake and Coffee shop

Sawobali is another welcome addition to the Ubud vegan scene and we were regulars at their all-you-can-eat vegan buffet.

I’m not usually a buffet fan, but the food here is fresh and tasty and it’s perfect for a quick, inexpensive meal. For 50,000 IDR you can choose from 10 hot dishes, a soup, rice, and salad. Water is also included.

They describe the food as Indonesian fusion so there are classic local dishes like tempeh, tofu, curry, and vegetables, and more international dishes like a delicious tomato eggplant dish that tastes like an Italian melanzane parmigiana without the cheese.

Everything is vegan, gluten-free, and made without onions or garlic.

Sawobali also has a range of cakes including vegan and gluten-free options.

Cuisine: Vegan Indonesian Fusion.
Cost for a Main Dish: 50,000 IDR for the buffet.
Details: 19 Jalan Sukma Kesuma. Buffet from 1pm – 10.30pm every day.

15) Mumbai Station

Based at The Shala Bali Yoga Retreat and Spa, Mumbai Station has just a few tables in a small garden (bring mosquito repellant!).

They serve a couple of curries but their speciality is masala dosas (Indian crispy rice pancakes stuffed with spicy potato) with a choice of chutneys.

We love dosas and these are authentic and delicious. All the food is vegan and gluten-free.

Cuisine: Vegan Indian.
Cost for a Main Dish: 58,000 IDR for a dosa + 17% tax.
Details: 90 Jalan Raya Sanggingan.

Best Setting

In addition to these, The Elephant has a lovely view of Camphuan Ridge and Warung Bintangbali overlooks rice fields.

16) Clear Cafe

Love lasagna and tropical twister juice
Clear is a multi-storey restaurant with stylish decor, tables decorated with flowers, a pond and a fireman’s pole (!).

They serve organic, locally sourced food with many vegetarian options and something to suit everyone from raw dishes like the love lasagna to veggie burgers and burritos.

There are plenty of healthy drinks—I like the tropical twister with pineapple, orange and passionfruit.

Cuisine: Meat, fish, vegetarian and raw International.
Cost for a Main Dish: 50,000-95,000 IDR + 20%.
Details: Jalan Hanoman 8.

17) Yellow Flower

Vegan nasi campur
Yellow Flower is hidden away down a pedestrian path amongst the rice fields in the village of Penestanan.

There isn’t exactly a view but it’s a lovely, quiet space surrounded by trees above a lush valley. The bamboo building is decorated with colourful cushions and bamboo chairs.

Most menu items are vegetarian but there is the option to make dishes with chicken instead. We really enjoyed the vegan nasi campur, corn fritters, and tempeh candlenut curry.

It’s near the Intuitive Flow yoga studio so makes a good stop after a class. They have a buffet on Sunday nights.

Directions: Coming from Ubud it’s a five-minute walk up the Penestanan steps from Jalan Campuhan. Turn right when you reach the sign for Intuitive Flow. Alternatively, from the centre of Penestanan follow the signs down the pedestrian path across the road from Alchemy restaurant. It’s a seven-minute walk this way.

Cuisine: Meat and vegetarian Indonesian and International.
Cost for a Main Dish: 45,000-75,000 IDR + 10%.
Details: Penestanan Steps.

18) La Pacha Mama

La Pacha Mama is a stylish vegetarian Mexican restaurant in a dramatic high-ceilinged bamboo structure in Penestanan. With cool decor, regular live music, and attentive staff who learn your name, it doesn’t feel like anywhere else in Ubud.

The Mixed Platter is the best way to try a little bit of everything—nachos, guacamole, quesadilla, burrito, flauta and cauliflower buffalo wings. Perfect for sharing with friends over a cocktail (Simon recommends the espresso martini).

I didn’t enjoy the mains quite as much. The tempeh tacos were small and the filling wasn’t very exciting (the tempeh tacos at Sage are far better).

They do make their own authentic corn tortillas, though—the only place we’ve found in Ubud that does. The jackfruit burrito was good but just felt like it was missing something.

Dessert was fun—a chef came out and flambeed my bananas in tequila in front of me.

We enjoyed our meal at La Pacha Mama—the decor, service, cocktails and some dishes are excellent—but it’s expensive and the food didn’t quite live up to my expectations.

We will definitely return, but not as regularly as we do for Mexican at Sage and Taco Casa.

Cuisine: Vegetarian Mexican.
Cost for a Main Dish: 69,000-120,000 IDR plus 16%.
Details: 1 Jalan Raya Penestana Kelod.

Raw Vegan Food in Ubud

Ubud has to be the best destination for raw food in Asia, if not the world, especially if you take price into account.

There are plenty of raw restaurants, raw cooking classes, and many of the vegetarian-friendly places have a choice of raw mains (and not just salads) and desserts.

19) Moksa

Raw lasagna
Moksa is a vegan restaurant in Sayan, just beyond Penestanan. Produce comes from their onsite permaculture garden which you have a view of as you eat.

The food is a mix of raw and cooked vegan and everything is creative, delicious, and beautifully presented. The raw lasagna, eggplant redang, and tofu curry were all very good.

The amuse-bouche was a nice touch—a tumeric jamu shot on our first visit, and a raw bruschetta on our second.

The service is excellent and the staff make an effort to remember your name. If you are vegan, or just enjoy farm to table cuisine, don’t miss it.

Cuisine: Raw and cooked vegan.
Cost for a Main Dish: 70,000-90,000 IDR plus 15%.
Details: Puskesmas Ubud II.

20) The Seeds of Life

Mexican raw lasagna

The Seeds of Life serves raw vegan food and a huge range of healthy elixirs and juices.

Their Mexican raw lasagna is my favourite in Ubud and very different from the usual layers of zucchini—it felt creamier and more substantial. It’s a mix of creamy cashew cheese and beetroot pate with layers of corn tortillas, greens and a seed and avocado topping. It’s served slightly warm (but still raw apparently).

Simon’s vege wrap was a little boring. Their raw desserts are highly recommended but we didn’t try them.

They also have Mysore ashtanga yoga classes here.

Cuisine: Raw vegan.
Cost for a Main Dish: 25,000-75,000 IDR + 15%.
Details: 2 Jalan Gautama.

21) Taksu Garden Cafe

Almond tostadas
Taksu Spa has an upstairs restaurant with a varied menu including one that is entirely vegan and mostly raw.

It’s hard to choose from the innovative menu, but everything we ate was flavourful and presented like a work of art.

We love the hidden jungle setting right in the heart of Ubud. Make sure you look around Taksu after your meal, or do a yoga class or spa treatment—it’s an incredible place. The cafe looks down into a jungle gorge in the centre of Ubud.

Cuisine: Meat, fish, vegetarian, raw and cooked vegan International
Cost for a Main Dish: 50,000-115,000 IDR + 15%.
Details: Jalan Gautama.

22) Alchemy

Alchemy is one of the most well known Ubud vegan restaurants. It has a small raw vegan menu, but the real highlight is the salad bar with many interesting toppings like pink sauerkraut, curry rawmesan, and kale sprinkle.

They also serve juices, sweet treats, and health food items in their shop.

Cuisine: Raw vegan.
Cost for a Main Dish: 65,000-85,000 IDR + 16%.
Details: 75 Jalan Penestanan Kelod.

23) Soma Cafe (Update 2023: Sadly, now closed)

A mostly raw vegan restaurant (you can add fish) with lots of healthy drinks and raw desserts.

It was all a bit too healthy for Simon and his rainbow coco curry was very bland. I enjoyed my live love pasta—raw zucchini noodles with cashew cheese, pesto, olives, tomatoes, and capers.

Cuisine: Fish, raw and vegan.
Cost for a Main Dish: 52,000-74,000 IDR + 17%.

24) Sayuri Healing Food Cafe

High-vibowl with “cheese” croutons
Sayuri is one of my favourite raw vegan restaurants in Ubud with a bright space, fast WiFi, and delicious healthy food.

I love the bowls that come with lots of veggies, sauerkraut, and a choice of dressing and toppings. The “cheese” croutons are amazing and I couldn’t believe they were made from coconut (sadly on my second visit they weren’t crunchy though).

I’m a fan of the Pick Me Up green smoothie with berries and pineapple so it doesn’t taste too “green”. You can also have it as a smoothie bowl with a choice of toppings—the coconut cinnamon chips are delicious. The raw desserts look tempting.

If you are looking for a flavourful, creative, and healthy meal, then give it a try.

Cuisine: Raw vegan with a few cooked dishes.
Cost for a Main Dish: 35,000-79,000 IDR plus 15%.
Details: 2 Jalan Sukma Kesuma.

Best Cafes in Ubud for Working

In addition to Lazy Cats, we often worked at Sage.

25) Lazy Cats Cafe

Lazy Cats is one of the best Ubud vegetarian cafes for digital nomads

Lazy Cats is an Instagrammable cafe with cool artwork and comfy armchairs overlooking the main road of Ubud.

Bali Buda is another vegetarian-friendly restaurant with a bit of everything—salads, sandwiches, soups, pasta, Mexican, and Indonesian.

Our favourite dish is the creamy tofu and cashew curry, full of chickpeas and vegetables.

We often went to their health food shop a few doors down for good rye and wholemeal bread, kombucha, and bulk buy nuts, seeds, and lentils.

Cuisine: Meat and vegetarian Indonesian and International.
Cost for a Main Dish: 55,000-98,000 IDR + 15%.
Details: 1 Jalan Jembawan.

Best Special Occasion Ubud Restaurants

Ubud has some very fancy restaurants if you are looking for somewhere to celebrate.

Most of these have vegetarian tasting menus and can cater for vegans if you let them know in advance.

They’re expensive but it’s much less than you would pay for fine dining elsewhere. Just be careful with your drinks—alcohol is pricey in Indonesia and you can end up doubling your food costs.

28) Locavore

Locavore creates contemporary European cuisine using local ingredients. Eating here was one of our most memorable restaurant experiences.

We chose the five-course vegetarian tasting menu (seven courses is also an option), but ended up being served 12 small bites in addition to the courses—the stream of food lasted hours.

We never knew what to expect—my berry cocktail was served with a side of thyme set on fire so the aroma would enhance the flavour; the flowers arranged on the table were part of the meal; and when we finished dessert and thought it was all over, we were brought five more sweet treats including potato doughnuts balanced on a log.

It was all simple but flavourful and beautifully presented.

Reservations are essential—Locavore usually books up a month in advance.

Cuisine: Meat and vegetarian European tasting menus.
Cost for a Main Dish: 1,250,000 IDR + 20.5% for seasonal tasting menu.
Details: Jalan Dewi Sita.

29) Mozaic

Tofu, curry puree and popcorn
Mozaic feels much more formal and fancy than Locavore with ultra-attentive service and a romantic candle-lit garden setting.

Each course was a work of art—creative and delicious, mixing European and Balinese flavours.

Highlights were the tofu with curry puree and popcorn, melt-in-the-mouth linguine with parmesan foam, and an excellent coconut sorbet with coconut chips.

It was another special experience that lasted hours and was the perfect place to celebrate Simon’s birthday.

Cuisine: Meat and vegetarian European tasting menus.
Cost for a Main Dish: 650,000 IDR + 21% for 6 course vegetarian tasting menu.
Details: Jalan Raya Sanggingan.

30) Uma Cucina

Uma Cucina is the best Italian in Ubud but at Italy prices (ask for the vegetarian menu).

Based at COMO Hotel the restaurant has outdoor terraces and a large communal table at the heart of the dining space.

Cuisine: Meat and vegetarian European.
Cost for a Main Dish: 90,000-300,000 IDR + 21%
Details: COMO Uma Ubud, Jalan Raya Sanggingan.

31) Kubu

For a real treat go to Kubu at the Ritz Carlton where you can enjoy a vegetarian tasting menu in a private bamboo cocoon overlooking the river, the perfect intimate setting for that special occasion.

Cuisine: Meat and vegetarian European.
Cost for a Main Dish: 750,000 IDR + 21% for 6 course vegetarian tasting menu.
Details: Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Jalan Kedewatan.

Restaurants with Swimming Pools

If you fancy a swim after your meal, the restaurants below offer free use of their pool. You can also use the pool at the hotel next to The Elephant for a small fee.

The infinity pool at Jungle Fish looks amazing and they have vegetarian options, but there’s a minimum spend of 500,000 IDR.

For somewhere central, Folk on Monkey Forest Road has an attractive pool and good Western and Indonesian dishes.

32) Swasti Beloved Cafe

Monster salad
The organic cafe at Swasti Eco Cottages uses vegetables from their garden. It’s not entirely vegetarian but they label the menu with vegan, raw, and gluten-free options.

The setting is lovely in a bamboo building overlooking the garden, or you can eat by the pool.

My monster salad was fantastic with lots of interesting ingredients including tempeh, edible flowers, kimchi, and coconut chips. Simon was less impressed with his veggie burger.

They also serve great smoothies (2 for 1 from 5.30-7pm) and raw desserts.

Cuisine: Meat and vegetarian Indonesian and International.
Cost for a Main Dish: 45,000-80,000 IDR + 21%.
Details: 3 Jalan Nyuh Bojog.

33) The Onion Collective (Delicious Onion)

The Onion Collective is a co-working space with a cafe and swimming pool (with slide!). It has a cool vibe and often hosts live music.

Half the menu is vegetarian and although we enjoyed our burgers, especially the bean burger, mine was completely cold and the service was flaky.

Cuisine: Meat and vegetarian Indonesian and International.
Cost for a Main Dish: 52,000-98,000 IDR + 15%.
Details: Jalan Raya Pengosekan.

Best Coffee and Sweet Treats in Ubud

Cappuccino, almond croissant, and pain aux raisins at Monsieur Spoon
My favourite treat is the vegan cakes at Sage. You can also find raw cakes at the restaurants listed in the Raw section above, and many of the others. Some contain honey so if you’re a strict vegan, you’ll need to check.

Seminan Coffee Studio – A hipster cafe that takes its coffee seriously. Simon loves the coffee here and also buys freshly ground beans to use at home. The french toast, smoothie bowl, and croissants make it a great option for breakfast.
Room4Dessert – Innovative (but pricey) desserts and cocktails in an ultra-cool bar that feels more New York than Ubud.
Monsieur Spoon – The best croissants in Ubud.
Caramel Patisserie– Simon’s favourite cakes, especially the trichoc and red velvet. They can custom make birthday cakes.
Gaya Gelato – Our favourite gelato in Ubud. The chocolate, pistachio, and coconut are especially good and took us back to Italy.
Kokolato – Vegan ice cream made with healthy ingredients. I like the moringa mint chip. Many of the above restaurants sell it.

Summary

Ubud is definitely one of the most vegetarian and vegan friendly places in Asia. There is an absurd amount of choice—I left many restaurants off this list that in most other places we’d love. If you are vegetarian or just love healthy food, don’t miss it.

Jul, 2023

Diet-Friendly & Vegan Options in Indian Food

Eating out can be a challenge if you have dietary restrictions. Many restaurants offer special dishes to cater to various diets, including gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian dietary restrictions, but these meal options are often less flavorful than other menu choices. However, Indian food naturally caters to vegan and vegetarian diets and the menu options offered at https://bombaysandwichco.com/ don’t compromise on flavor. Our menu is filled with a wide variety of healthy Indian food that caters to every preference, from lean proteins to vegetarian and vegan entrees. Choose from any of the flavorful meals below to enjoy vegan Indian food that is completely satisfying.

Chana Masala

One name you’ll see often repeated throughout the menu at any Indian restaurant is masala. Masala is simply a traditional blend of spices used in many dishes of India, in this case in chickpea dishes. The chickpeas are cooked in a tomato-based masala sauce that is made with cumin, coriander, chili powder, and turmeric. It is flavored with our signature spice mix.

Dal

Dal is a thick stew or dish made with lentils and is typically vegetarian as long as you make sure it has not been prepared or served with ghee (butter). For instance, bombaysandwichco serves two different dal dishes, a dal soup, and Dal Makhni, which are lentils with garlic, ginger, tomatoes, and spices.

Dal Makhni

Lentils are a nutrient-dense food that keeps you satisfied for hours, making them incredibly popular for people following a vegan diet. Our dish is made with red and yellow lentils that are cooked to perfection and seasoned with ginger, garlic, and tomato in addition to other spices.

Malai Kofta

This dish is traditionally vegetarian as it is made by frying balls of potato and paneer and then smothering them in gravy or creamy sauce. If you want to customize Malai Kofta to accommodate your diet, simply ask for koftas made without paneer and then cover them with our rich gravy seasoned with a variety of spices.

Vegetable Biryani

Biryani is the perfect dish for special occasions and the vegetable variety allows you to indulge in a flavorful meal while sticking to your vegan diet. Our vegetable biryani features layers of long-grain rice and seasoned vegetables covered in a rich, thick gravy. The entire dish is flavored with exotic spices and herbs and then is cooked over a low flame.

Vegetable Curry

Curry is a staple Indian dish, and there are many different varieties to cater to various tastes. Our vegetable curry features a flavorful sauce seasoned with the Chef’s signature spice mix. It is combined with an array of fresh vegetables for a healthy meal option.

Alu Mutter

Although the consumption of potatoes is restricted on other diets, the starchy vegetable is a staple for the vegan diet. Alu Mutter is a healthy combination of potatoes and green peas flavored with a variety of traditional Indian spices

Alu Gobi

Indian cuisine offers a lot of vegetable dishes, and one of the healthiest Indian dishes is Alu Gobi, which is just potatoes and cauliflower seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices that give them the traditional Indian flavor. Both vegetables are nutrient-dense, making them ideal for any vegan diet. One of the main spices in this dish, turmeric, gives the food a yellow color, while ginger, coriander, cumin, garlic, and onion combine with the turmeric to provide the plate with a distinctive flavor.

Bombay Alu

Bombay Alu features our signature curry sauce made with tomatoes, chilies, spices, and herbs. Diced potatoes, seasoned with our signature spice blend, are mixed into the curry to thicken the rich sauce.

Navratan Korma

Because they are satisfying and filled with essential nutrients, vegetables should be the cornerstone of any diet, but they are a critical component of a vegan diet. This dish features a blend of seasoned mixed vegetables that are cooked in delectable whipped cream and topped with flavorful nuts for a satisfying crunch.

Mushroom Mutter

The hearty, earthy taste of mushrooms makes them a wonderful addition to many dishes and this traditional Indian meal makes them the main event. Whole mushrooms are cooked with green peas, tomato, and onions and flavored with herbs and spices.

Bhindi Masala

As with all Indian dishes, the spices are what make bhindi masala so flavorful. This dish features okra as the main ingredient and combines it with tomato and onion for enhanced flavor and texture. Exotic Indian spices make this dish come to life.

Alu Saag

Spinach is a superfood with many health benefits and when it is seasoned with traditional Indian herbs and spices, it becomes a flavorful dish that many vegans love. This dish combines chopped spinach with diced potatoes and coats them in an exotic spice blend.

Saag Chole

Made with flavorful chickpeas, this dish enhances the taste by seasoning them with our signature spice blend. Chopped spinach enriches the dish and makes it a delicious option for people following a vegan diet.

Roti

Vegans needn’t give up bread at an Indian restaurant. While naan is traditionally made with yogurt, making it off-limits for vegans, roti is a vegan flatbread that will pair perfectly with your food.

Jul, 2023

12 Vegan Indian Dishes You Must Try at Least Once

You’ve probably heard that India is great for lacto-vegetarian travelers, but did you know that there are also plenty of vegan Indian food items to choose from?

The vegan movement is really taking off in India. But even before veganism was popular, there were already many vegan dishes in Indian cuisine, and even some vegan Indian desserts.

Today’s post from this website https://bombaysandwichco.com/ , an Indian travel enthusiast who’s here to share eight vegan Indian dishes that you definitely don’t want to miss.

Vegan Indian Food: 12 Dishes You Must Try

1. Chana Masala

Chana masala is my favorite vegan Indian dish. Watch the video to learn all about it!

Chana masala is primarily a northern Indian dish, although it is also eaten as a breakfast food in the south of India.

Chana means “chickpea” and masala means “spice”, so this dish is a chickpea curry made with tomatoes, garlic, ginger, onion, plenty of spices … and chickpeas, of course!

It’s usually vegan by default. The only non-vegan ingredient that you might find in this dish is ghee – a type of clarified butter that is sometimes used as a cooking fat in India.

If that’s the case, you can ask the restaurant staff to replace the ghee with a plant-based oil. Chana masala can be eaten with rice or with a bread such as chapati or naan. Or both!

2. Dal Chaawal

This is a common dish prepared in every household in India. Depending on the region, some families even prepare it three or four times a week.

Dal means “lentil” and chawal means “rice”, so this is a dish of lentils and rice. Indians use different kinds of lentils for making different lentil soups.

I remember there used to be more than 10 types of lentils in my mom’s kitchen. Each kind of soup uses a different combination of spices.

Thus, each of them differs in taste significantly. Indians love to eat lentil soup with rice and sometimes with roti (Indian flatbread). Interestingly, this dish is more popular in homes than in restaurants.

Often Indian families add a little bit of ghee or butter in the serving of lentil soup once it is ready. If you are traveling as a vegan, make sure you let your host or server know that you do not want ghee or butter.

In restaurants, you will probably find two kinds of lentil soups:

Dal Fry or Dal Tadka

This one is mostly prepared with yellow lentils (arhar or toor dal). It is possible that the restaurant staff might add butter or ghee to your serving without consulting you, so be sure to let them know you want a vegan meal.

And of course, to make this a complete dal chaawal (lentils and rice), just order rice as an accompaniment.

Dal Makhani

This is another popular lentil soup in India. However, the word “makhani” means butter, which is always an ingredient in this dish. For that reason, this type of lentil soup is not easily veganized.

You should either confirm with your server that the restaurant serves a vegan version of it or just order something else.

3. Kofta

Kofta actually means “meatball”. However, in India, it is common to see vegetarian and vegan varieties of kofta.

Vegan versions often include kofta made with lentils or potatoes or mixed vegetables. Kofta is usually served with spicy curry or gravy. If you are familiar with Indian cuisine, then you probably know that there are different kinds of gravies in India.

Some gravies may contain butter or cream as an essential ingredient, so confirm with your server which gravy they serve with the kofta. If it’s a creamy gravy, ask if they can swap it out for a vegan one.

4. Kashmiri Dum Aloo

This dum aloo is a traditional dish from Kashmir that is made with small deep-fried potatoes cooked slowly in a spicy gravy. Although the dish originates from the state of Kashmir, it is also very popular in the rest of India.

You will easily find it in most Indian restaurants, both in India and in other countries. When it is prepared at home, it is almost always vegan.

However, some restaurants serve it in a gravy that contains cream or curd (yogurt). Confirm with your server whether they can offer a vegan version of this dish.

5. Vegetable Biryani

The first dish on this list is for all the rice lovers out there! No matter where you are traveling in India, you’re never far away from a sumptuous plate of vegetable biryani.This is the Indian version of vegetable fried rice.

The fragrant rice cooked with succulent vegetables and a heaping mix of aromatic spices like nutmeg, pepper mace, cloves, cinnamon, bay leaves, cardamom, coriander, and mint can make your senses go wild. And trust me, you’ll end up craving more.

6. Rajma

Rajma is a popular vegan Indian dish made of red kidney beans cooked with many Indian whole spices in a thick gravy. It’s usually served with roti (an Indian flatbread) and steaming hot rice. Even though the kidney bean is not of Indian origin, it’s still an integral part of the typical diet in Northern India.

7. Masala Dosa

Made from fermented rice and dal (lentils), masala dosa is a super-thin, crispy, savory pancake wrapped around a mix of curried potatoes, onions and spices. It’s popular mainly in South India, and also in neighboring Sri Lanka.

This scrumptious dish is served with chutney and sambar and is best suited for breakfast or lunch. The southern city of Bangalore is particularly famous for its many dosa joints, and it was also recently named India’s most vegan-friendly city.

Just be aware that some chefs will use yogurt (curd) in the fermentation process when making the batter.

8. Hara Bhara Kabab

If you enjoy munching on snacks but still want to get all the nutrients your body needs, then Hara Bhara Kabab is the perfect snack food for you.

These little round patties look similar to falafel but are made from potatoes, green peas and spinach. They are a tasty alternative to the typical meat kabab.

9. Baingan Bharta

Baingan Bharta is a smoked eggplant curry, somewhat like a warm version of the baba ghanoush that is eaten as a cold dip in Middle Eastern countries.

Baingan Bharta is a simple combination of spices and herbs with chargrilled eggplant (known as “brinjals” in India). It is a flavorful dish that is easy to whip up and is healthy and tasty to boot.

10. Aloo Puri

The next vegan Indian food item on this list is a bit of a decadent treat but is worth every calorie. An essential part of North Indian cuisine, puri bhaji is a must-try dish for those who like their food on the spicy side. Puri refers to the delicious, crispy deep-fried, puffed bread that is served with a delectable spicy gravy made of aloo (potato).

If you’re traveling by train (a quintessential Indian experience in itself), you’ll find vendors selling Aloo Puri at almost every station. For hygiene reasons, though, it’s best to stick to government-authorized vendors or the one that you get with your official IRCTC ticket.

11. Pakoras

When it comes to vegan Indian food, pakoras are undoubtedly the perfect snack! They are basically Indian fritters made of besan (chickpea flour) with added vegetables like potato, bell peppers, cabbage, and spices. This item is usually served with a delicious mint or coriander chutney.

12. Chole Bathure

A guaranteed crowd-pleasing vegan Indian food item, chole is enjoyed by people of all ages. This chickpea-based curry not only tastes good but is also packed with lots of healthy ingredients. The spicy, mouthwatering dish is accompanied by puris or bhatura (fried Indian bread).

These 12 vegan Indian food items should all be on your must-eat list while traveling in India. Happy travels!

Category Archives: Vegan Food

Jul, 2023

9 Great Vegan Meat Alternatives

1. Tempeh

Pros:

Cons:

2. Lentils

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Cons:

3. Beans

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Cons:

4. Tofu

Pros:

Cons:

5. Mycoprotein

Pros:

Cons:

6. Seitan

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Cons:

7. Jackfruit

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8. Pea Protein

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9. Soy Protein

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Make Your Own Vegan Ground Beef

Jul, 2023

11 must-try vegan restaurants in San Francisco

Wildseed

Baia

Mr. Charlie’s

Rad Radish

Shizen

Golden Era Vegan

Nourish Cafe

Gracias Madre

VeganBurg

Judahlicious

Wholesome Bakery

Jul, 2023

Why do we eat breakfast?

Popular vegan breakfast foods

Where to buy vegan breakfast

Peet’s Coffee

Starbucks

IHOP

Qdoba

Caffe Nero

Odd Burger

Silver Diner

Breakfast Republic

Alfred Coffee

Caribou Coffee

Plant Power Fast Food

Jajaja Mexicana

The Butcher’s Daughter

Planta

Saxbys

Turning Point

Gregory’s Coffee

Jul, 2023

What is vegan chicken?

Is vegan chicken healthy?

Vegan chicken brands

Where to find vegan chicken sandwiches

Atlas Monroe

Multiple locations, plus nationwide shipping

Veggie Grill

Multiple locations

Slutty Vegan

Multiple locations

Green New American Vegetarian

Phoenix, AZ

Souley Vegan

Oakland, CA