Top 5 Vegetarian Restaurants in Hanoi

Vegetarianism is no longer confined to Buddhist monks; it has gained widespread popularity due to its remarkable health benefits. Embark on a culinary adventure through Hanoi's vibrant vegetarian scene, where tantalizing flavors and diverse dishes await. This guide introduces the top 5 vegetarian restaurants in Hanoi, each offering a unique twist on delicious meat-free cuisine.

1. Mẹt Vietnamese Restaurant & Vegetarian Food

Mẹt (pronounced "met") embodies the essence of Vietnamese vegetarian dining. Nestled in the heart of Hanoi's Old Quarter, this charming restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. Mẹt's menu is a love letter to local flavors, reimagined with plant-based ingenuity. Expect to pay around 50,000 VND to 150,000 VND (US$2.20 to US$6.60) per dish.

Location: 57 Hang Bac Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi

Must-Try Dishes:

• Bún Chả (Spicy Mock Grilled Pork with Rice Vermicelli Noodles): This vibrant dish features rice vermicelli noodles bathed in a fragrant broth, topped with savory mock grilled "pork" and a medley of fresh herbs.
• Nem Phở chay (Vegetarian Spring Rolls): Mẹt's take on the classic Vietnamese spring roll uses rice paper filled with a delightful combination of chewy mushrooms, crunchy vegetables, and a flavorful vegetarian "meat" filling.

2. Hoang's Restaurant - Vietnamese Cuisine & Vegan Food

For a modern take on Vietnamese vegetarian cuisine, look no further than Hoang's Restaurant. This stylish eatery boasts a sleek interior and a menu that showcases innovative plant-based renditions of Vietnamese favorites. Expect a slightly higher price range here, with dishes averaging 100,000 VND to 150,000 VND (US$4.40 to US$6.60).

Location: 11 Ngo 41 Thai Phien Street, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi

Must-Try Dishes:

• Bánh Xèo Chay (Crispy Vegan Turmeric Pancake): Hoang's vegan take on the crispy turmeric pancake features a light and airy crepe filled with savory stir-fried vegetables and a flavorful mock shrimp paste.
• Phở Cuốn chay (Rolled Rice Noodles with Mock Meat and Vegetables): This vibrant dish presents rice noodles rolled with a colorful array of fresh vegetables and a delectable mock meat filling, served with a dipping sauce for added depth of flavor.

3. Tung's Kitchen

Tung's Kitchen embraces a holistic approach to vegetarian dining. This cozy restaurant offers not only delicious plant-based meals but also cooking classes for those who want to recreate the magic at home. Prices are higher than others a little, with most dishes falling in the 150,000 VND to 200,000 VND (US$6.60 to US$8.80) range.

Location: 138 Hang Bac Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi

Must-Try Dishes:

• Bún Bò chay (Vegan Beef Noodle Soup): Tung's heartwarming vegan rendition of the spicy beef noodle soup features a rich and flavorful broth brimming with vegetables, tofu, and a touch of lemongrass.
• Gỏi Cuốn chay (Vegetarian Spring Rolls): These refreshing vegetarian spring rolls are a delightful explosion of textures and tastes. Fresh herbs, crunchy vegetables, and a tasty mock meat filling are wrapped in rice paper for a light and healthy appetizer.

4. Veggie Castle - Vegetarian Buffet Restaurant

Calling all indecisive vegetarians! Veggie Castle is a haven for those who want to sample a vast array of plant-based delights. This restaurant operates as a buffet, allowing diners to create their own personalized vegetarian feast. Expect to pay a set price for the buffet, typically around 50,000 VND to 150,000 VND (US$2.20 to US$6.60)

Location:

• 10A Ngo 1 Hoang Hoa Tham Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi
• Several other locations throughout the city

What Makes it Special:

• Extensive Buffet: Veggie Castle boasts a seemingly endless selection of vegetarian dishes, featuring everything from mock meats and tofu variations to fresh salads and stir-fried vegetables.
• Dessert Delights: Don't forget to save room for dessert! Veggie Castle offers a range of vegan sweets and treats to satisfy your sweet tooth.

5. Vi Lai Vegetarian Restaurant

Vi Lai Vegetarian Restaurant is a 4-story villa with 4 interior concepts and beautiful décor. There is also a private room for large groups or intimate family gatherings. If you prefer a green space, the restaurant also has "floating islands" for dining amidst a unique Koi fish pond. Guests can enjoy their meals while watching the fish swim.

The restaurant's menu is diverse, combining Asian and European vegetarian cuisine, with a special focus on seasonal dishes. From fresh ingredients to elaborate decorations, everything reflects the meticulousness and care of the dedicated chefs. Guests have a wide variety of choices for main courses, soups, salads, vegetable dishes, and drinks.

Location: 67 Ly Thuong Kiet Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.

Price: À la carte 45,000 VND - 185,000 VND (US$1.8 to US$7.40) per dish; buffet at the table 250,000 VND (US$10) per person, buffet not served on the 15th and 1st lunar days

Opening hours: 9:30 AM - 10:00 PM daily.

 

Conclusion

Hanoi's vibrant culinary scene caters not only to meat lovers but also to vegetarian travelers. With its abundance of flavorful and innovative plant-based options, Hanoi is a paradise for those seeking delicious and satisfying vegetarian meals. So, grab your chopsticks and embark on a culinary adventure through the streets of Hanoi.

Bonus Tip: Download a translation app to help you navigate menus and communicate with restaurant staff if needed. Many vegetarian restaurants in Hanoi have English menus, but a translation app can be a handy tool for deciphering unfamiliar ingredients or having a more nuanced conversation about your dietary preferences.

>> See more places to explore Vietnam: Top 5 places to go in Hanoi ; Top 5 things to do in Hoian