A few years ago, vegetarian tourists travelling to Hong Kong would have had a hard time finding somewhere to eat. But now, if you’re looking for the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Hong Kong, you’re spoilt for choice.
Let’s not mince words: in Hong Kong, pork is in damn near everything. Even so-called ‘vegetarian dumplings’ sold in the supermarkets often have pork (or fish) in them, if you check the contents carefully on the package. And at restaurants, ‘vegetarian dishes’ are typically cooked with ingredients like oyster sauce or dried shrimp, for example. This can make eating out in Hong Kong a daunting experience, as you may not know what the chef has put in the dish (or in the wok).
Today, thanks to an increasing demand for a greener lifestyle, things have changed significantly and both vegan and vegetarian restaurants are plentiful. The challenge now is deciding which place to choose. Lucky for you, we’ve compiled a handy list of vegetarian restaurants in Hong Kong, covering a wide range of cuisines. From pub food to dim sum, Indian curries to Japanese sushi, use this handy guide to nom your way through Hong Kong without having to wonder about what you’re actually eating.
Veggie4love
+852 3902-3902
Mon-Sun, 11:30-15:00, 17:30-22:00
If you’ve ever wondered what a 50’s San Fran nostalgia diner-core themed vegetarian restaurant in the heart of HK’s CBD looks like, then check out Veggie4love. Round the corner from Lan Kwai Fong, expect a great atmosphere and a mouthwatering menu featuring vegan Glamburgers, creamy laksa, Vietnamese noodles or the all day breakfast with turmeric tofu.
Ahimsa Buffet
2/F, 88 Sai Yee Street Mong Kok, Kowloon+852 2889 2938
Mon-Sun, 11:30-15:30;18:00-22:00
Ahimsa Buffet in Mong Kok, a few minutes’ walk from the Ladies Market, is well known for its wide variety of dishes. There’s also a location in Tsuen Wan and both are famous for their all-you-can-eat buffet, featuring a range of savoury vegan and vegetarian cuisines as well as a superb dessert section. Not only is it delicious but it’s also one of the most affordable buffets in town from HK$89.00 for weekday lunches to HK$129.00 for weekday dinner.
Chi Lin Vegetarian Restaurant
+852 3658 9388
Mon-Sun, 12:00-15:00;18:00-21:00
This is a great option that kills two birds with one stone, without actually killing any birds. If you’re visiting the gorgeous Chi Lin Nunnery and Nan Lian Gardens, you can then have a vegetarian meal at the on-site restaurant, Chi Lin vegetarian restaurant. Located right by the garden’s waterfall, try get a seat by the big glass window to see the curtain of water falling right in front of you as you indulge in some classic Cantonese cuisine with a contemporary touch.
Sangeetha Vegetarian Restaurant
UG 1-5 & 31, Wing On Plaza, 62 Mody Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon+852 2640 2123
Mon-Fri: 10:30-15:00, 18:00-21:30. Sat-Sun: 9:30-15:30, 18:00-22:00
When it comes to vegetarian food, Indian cuisine and its vibrant spices and powerful flavours has nailed it and can sway even those less convinced by the veggie world. Sangeetha Vegetarian Restaurant is an excellent example of some no frills, straight up Southern Indian cooking and specialises in traditional Chettinad and Udupi style dishes. Try their renowned dosas, samosas and dahl or opt for the mini tiffin to sample a range of menu highlights.
LockCha
Hong Kong Park
+852 2801 7177
Mon-Sun, 10:00-20:00
Tai Kwun
+852 2276-5777
Mon-Fri: 11:00-18:00, Sat-Sun: 9:00-18:00
This classic Chinese tea house has two stunning locations on HK island. The Hong Kong Park branch is nestled amongst greenery and is a wonderful place to have some vegetarian dim sum before (or after) riding the Peak Tram, which is less than a 10-minute walk away. This venue is also next to the Flagstaff Museum of Teaware, one of Hong Kong’s more specialised museums, so if you have some time then pop in to take a look as admission is free.
The Tai Kwun branch is located in the former Central Police station, Tai Kwun. A building steeped in heritage, there’s lots to explore here before checking out LockCha’s flagship tea store and tea house.
Isoya Japanese
9/F, 83 Wan Chai Rd, Wan Chai+852-5500-8812
Mon-Sat: 12:00-15:00, 18:00-23:00
So beautifully designed (the food, that is) that you’ll almost think you’re eating unagi and salmon. But rest assured, it’s all vegetarian at Isoya. Enjoy sushi, noodles, salads, tofu, tempura, and desserts. Isoya is located just off Johnston Road, so this is your chance to take a ride on the cute and historic Tram (nearest stop: Fleming Road).
Root Vegan
Shop 102-103, 1/F, Sunwise Building, 112-114 Wellington Street, Central, Hong Kong island+852 9850 9558
Mon-Sun: 12:00-15:00, 16:00-21:30
Another vegan favourite, Root Vegan’s menu offers a diverse range of internationally inspired dishes and is perfect for both plant based pros or newbies to the greener lifestyle. There’s something for everyone with meat alternatives such as dan dan linguini with Omni-pork or Omni-tuna mayo toast, as well as super colorful veggie dishes like their rainbow avocado salad bowl.
Po Lin Monastery
+852 2985 5248
Mon-Sun (including public holidays): 11:30-16:30
Hong Kong’s famous Tian Tan ‘Big Buddha’ might be perched up on top of a remote mountain on Lantau Island, but vegetarians are in luck because at the Po Lin Monastery next door, you can have a lovely meat-free meal. The monastery’s Vegetarian Kitchen is open 11:30am to 4:30pm and serves up Chinese dishes such as tofu, spring rolls, dumplings, and fresh vegetables.
Wanaka
G/F, 8 King Sing Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong island+852 6080 8251
Mon-Sun: 8:00-21:00
If you’re looking for fully plant based delights, head for the vegan haven that is Wanaka. This quaint cafe can be found nestled beside the iconic Blue House in Wan Chai with nice bright interiors and a cute courtyard among lanterns and fairy lights. Wanaka is the sister restaurant to Years (see below) and their whole ethos is very green, from the locally sourced, organic ingredients to the emphasis on sustainable living (bring your own containers and cups if you’re getting takeaway). Menu highlights include their seasonal bagels as well or spicy coconut noodles.
Years
Various locations across HKMaking waves in both the sustainable living and vegan communities, the team behind Years are committed to promoting a greener, more holistic lifestyle. The group now has several branches across HK, with each venue serving up a different menu all featuring high quality, handmade ingredients with no animal products in site. Standout dishes include the spicy thai tom yum veggie quinoa, the katsu curry risotto and the the earl grey cheesecake.
