Are you exhausted searching for vegan restaurants in Tokyo? Maybe you’ve even tried a bunch and wondered if they were worth it. Or have you given up completely and resorted to cooking? Look no further. Whether you’re travelling or a local resident, I’ll serve you 5 restaurants that will give your utensils a well-deserved break.
Superior by name, superior by nature.
Don’t be fooled by its humble exterior. This one-of-a-kind strictly vegan New York-style joint has customers traveling from far and wide to devour the menu. So how does SB live up to its name?
Whether opting for the Teriyaki burger or the Japan-exclusive Yuba creation burger with rich-tasting tofu skin oozing with mushroom mayo, you won’t be disappointed! This joint really gets it right. Not forgetting to mention, all sides come with a kind of crunch including their burnt broccoli salad which I guarantee will be like no other salad you’ve tried before.
Its USP lies in its inconspicuous interior – the seating is benches constructed from actual basketballs! Comfortable or not, that’s for you to decide.
Instagram: @superiorityburgerjapan
Address: 〒155-0032 Tokyo, Setagaya City, Daizawa, 5 Chome−33−7 1F BEE FIVE SHIMOKITAZAWA
Like any big city, Tokyo is no different, with there being a cafe on every corner. How about one that’s exclusively vegan and gluten-free? I thought not. UNIVERSAL BAKES AND CAFE is a steal.
Step inside the world of easy-on-your-tummy pastries.
Famous for their undeniably delicious French toast, onion bread and simply scrumptious melon pan, you’re spoilt for choice. The oat milk latte is also a must and goes down a treat.
This space offers a clean, fresh, minimal hub with stylish yet functional furniture.
Vegan or not vegan, stock up, freeze up, and enjoy later. Buy now while stocks last!
P.S.: there’s also a 2nd store in Shimokitazawa.
Instagram: @universalbakes_tokyo
Website: https://universal.theshop.jp/
Address: 5 Chome-9-15 Daita, Setagaya City, Tokyo 155-0033
大泉工場nishiazabu has an earthy, local, yet very modern atmosphere with kombucha, the famous fermented tea, served on tap.
The dimensional space is divided into a restaurant, where you can tuck into a hearty organically lush curry. Adjacent is the coffee shop/workspace area with customers attending meetings through their laptops. All whilst others in the urban grocery store are sifting the shelves in the plant-based pantry. Kombucha anyone?
Their vegan Keema curry is everything and more. A large portion, full of flavor, at a reasonable price. What’s not to like?
This shop is also famous for its incredible oasis of seasonal cold-pressed juices packed with nutrients.
It’s almost too good to share!
Instagram: @oizumi_kojo_nishiazabu
Website: https://oks-nishiazabu.com/
Address: 大泉工場nishiazabu, 2 Chome-13-１３ Nishiazabu, Minato City, Tokyo 106-0031
Finding vegan Ramen in Tokyo which also tastes edible is definitely still a mission.
Although ordinary restaurants provide veggie/vegan options, it’s better to proceed with caution as miscommunication can occur.
Vegan Bistro Jangara is owned by the small chain Kyushu Jangara. Now usually I’m not a fan of franchises, but let’s say that Ramen Jangara is an exception to the rule. Actually, it’s your knight in shining armor.
Slurp on a bowl of guilt-free ramen in its super convenient Harajuku location. Minus the unpleasant pork broth (which even some non-vegans can find difficult to stomach).
They have an array of meal choices from Japanese to Western with soy sauce ramen and crispy gyoza being their go-to. The quesadillas are also often the first to be sold out.
Instagram: @veganbistro_jangara
Website: https://kyushujangara.co.jp/shops/veganbistro/
Address: 〒150-0001 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Jingumae, 1 Chome−13−21 シャンゼール原宿1号館 ２号館 ２Ｆ
Fancy a quick (vegan) bite while you’re in Nakameguro? Ballon’s got you covered.
Falafel sandwiches are notorious in this part of town. Light but rich, you’ll be kept going for the whole day!
Either grab a Falafel sandwich or a salad bowl. Whichever you choose, they’re not shy of vegetables with tomatoes, eggplants, mushrooms and carrots and a whole heap of lettuce.
The interior of this popular joint replicates a modern sleek diner. Although you can eat in, there are no qualms about taking out. Ballon is in high demand in the shop and on the apps with requests accepted from start to shift to finish.
If you’re still peckish afterwards, why not try some vegan soft cream? You know you want to!
Instagram: @ballontokyo
Website: https://www.ballontokyo.com/
Address: 〒153-0061 Tokyo, Meguro City, Nakameguro, 3 Chome−2−19 ラミアール中目黒
Japan has a long way to go with dietary concerns. Put simply, most eateries don’t cater for vegetarians, vegans, or customers with specific allergies. At the end of the day, it’s your responsibility.
So to be safe rather than sorry, do your homework and in the meantime put your mind at ease by checking out these great places
