Asia is a continent that many of the world’s foodies flock to purely for gastronomic reasons. There are countless dishes that are unrivalled in taste, texture and uniqueness. For vegans, many of the countries are havens - taste wise. This is not Europe or the USA where cheese and meat has made meals as monotonous as they are cruel. This is Asia - famous for its falafel and hummus in the west and it's tofu and tempeh in the East. As a vegan you will find food that fits your ethical needs. Today we've put together just seven places from this vast and varied continent to give you a taste (pun intended) of where you could go next:
1. The Maldives
This small chain of islands is our first stop for a luxury getaway where you can enjoy some of the best plant-based culinary experiences the world has ever offered. You could be staying somewhere that is within the Maldives luxury hotel collection list and be steps away from delicious vegan meals made from locally sourced, organic ingredients. Soneva Fushi and Amilla Maldives are just a couple of places that offer dishes such as plant-based sushi or curries infused with coconut.
Imagine eating your favourite vegan dishes and enjoying the beautiful island scenery on top of that. It’s a getaway that might be once in a lifetime - both for the foodie and the nature lover in you.
2. Bali, Indonesia
If there is one place that might be considered the unofficial “Vegan Capital of Asia”, look no further than Bali. Many health conscious travellers have come here for many years. Their vegan food scene is a must-visit, and you might find plenty of options in Ubud. Places like Zest are where you’ll enjoy numerous meal options, including tempeh dishes, plant-based pho bowls, and even a food forest pizza.
Find yourself in Canggu, and you will probably end up checking out I am Vegan Babe or any of the other 11 fully vegan restaurants in Canggu. Try smoothie bowls or something a bit more exotic, like jackfruit tacos. You can also grab a vegan burger that will be delicious from the first bite to the last.
3. Bangkok, Thailand
We couldn’t leave out one of the most popular tourist hotspots in Asia. It just so happens that it, too, has plenty of vegan options. We highly recommend you check out places like Veganerie or May Veggie Home. These are places where you can get delicious Thai favourites like mango sticky rice, green curry, and even some vegan-friendly pad Thai.
If you are someone who appreciates street food, you’d be crazy to miss out on what you can get at Yaowarat (Chinatown) Night Market or the Chatuchak Weekend Market. Both of these places have plenty of plant-based dishes that are similar to other popular dishes. The banana roti could be one of the best dishes you’ve tried in your entire life so far.
4. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
If you are a fan of pho, you’d be dying to try it in the country that made it famous. The good news is that Vietnamese dishes will typically feature fresh herbs, vegetables, and tofu, so it will certainly be a must-visit for vegan foodies.
Ho Chi Minh City is perhaps the best destination in the world where you can grab vegan pho, lotus stem salads, and spring rolls. Bong Sung Vegetarian has banh mi mixed with avocado and tofu, so you can enjoy a famous sandwich in Vietnam but with plant-based ingredients.
5. Taipei, Taiwan
One thing you might not know about Taiwan is that it is one of the most vegetarian-friendly countries in the world. The major reason for this is that its culture is deeply infused into Buddhism. Whenever you arrive in Taipei, the first place you should check out is Ooh Cha Cha, which offers a wide variety of dishes like burgers and grain bowls. It also has desserts that are free from dairy products, so you can enjoy something sweet and delicious.
Plants are also another go-to option that we recommend for those who want organic and gluten-free options. It also wouldn’t be Taipei without checking out some of the night markets where you can find plenty of vegan dishes. The Raohe Night Market has taro balls, dumplings, and get this…stinky tofu (despite its smell, it’s really tasty).
6. Kyoto, Japan
Japan is home to plenty of popular dishes, including ramen and sushi. However, go to Kyoto and you’ll find a place that vegans will enjoy. Like Taipei, Kyoto’s culture is infused with Buddhist influences. Ever wondered what it was like eating vegan dishes in a Japanese temple? This is your chance, and Shigetsu will be the perfect place for miso soup, tofu, and other dishes you’ll love.
While in Kyoto, you might not want to miss out on Ain Soph Journey. This is where you can enjoy traditional Japanese comfort foods with a plant-based twist including tempura and curry rice. If you are someone that enjoys mindfulness and eating healthy, this just might be the crown jewel destination for vegan travellers.
7. Mumbai, India
Our last destination takes us to Mumbai, which boasts the largest vegetarian population on Earth. So you can be quite happy knowing that you’ll find an abundance of vegan foods here. If you are looking for a mix of traditional and contemporary dishes, there are places like Sharan’s Healthy Kitchen and Candy & Green.
You really won’t have a true Mumbai experience without trying vegetable dishes, vegan thali with lentil curries, rice, and a coconut barfi dessert that can really leave you satisfied.
Final Thoughts
These seven destinations throughout Asia are the perfect places for vegans to enjoy the best dishes. Plan a trip to one destination or go on a multi-city tour. You don’t want to miss out on any of these places. Put together the perfect itinerary and make plans to do a tour of Asia, vegan style. Could these cuisines be as delicious as your home options?
There’s only one way to find out. Make Asia the best trip you’ve taken for delicious vegan foods that you might want to make for yourself at home! (Image sources: Title photo, Maldives, Bali by @gemtracktravel, Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh, Taipei, Kyoto and Mumbai)
