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May 2, 2025 Travel with Shivesh

The Ultimate Guide to Vegetarian Food in Tokyo and Kyoto

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Before I visited Japan, I kept hearing one thing over and over again: “Good luck being vegetarian there!” But here’s the truth — Tokyo and Kyoto are full of incredible vegetarian (and even vegan!) eats that don’t feel like an afterthought. From sizzling gyozas to gourmet vegan ramen and the fluffiest veggie tempura, eating meat-free in Japan is not just doable — it’s delicious, exciting, and full of surprises.

So whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, or just looking for a break from all the sushi and sashimi, here’s your ultimate guide to where and what to eat in Tokyo and Kyoto. Trust me — you’re going to want to bookmark this.

🍕 Japanese Pizza? YES PLEASE!

Tokyo’s Unexpected Vegetarian Hero

Pizza in Japan? Absolutely. And not just any pizza — we’re talking handcrafted, wood-fired, perfectly blistered crusts topped with fresh local veggies and oozy cheese. It’s the kind of meal you think about long after you’ve left.

  • Pizza Studio Tamaki (PST), Tokyo
    A minimalist space with maximal flavor. Their vegetarian margherita is a stunner — with a paper-thin crust, rich tomato sauce, and gooey mozzarella that could convert even the most loyal meat-lover. It’s pizza artistry.

  • Pizza Strada, Tokyo
    Cozy, stylish, and oh-so-delicious. Their veg options rotate with the seasons, but every single bite screams quality. Pair it with a glass of Japanese wine and you’ve got yourself a vibe.

🥟 Vegan Gyoza Goals at Izakaya Masaka

Your New Favourite Gyoza Spot (With No Meat In Sight)

There’s a certain joy in biting into a perfectly pan-fried gyoza. And Izakaya Masaka delivers that joy in the most plant-powered way possible. With locations in both Tokyo and Kyoto, this is your holy grail for crispy-bottomed, juicy-in-the-middle gyozas that are 100% vegan.

But wait, there’s more:

  • Silken mapo tofu with just the right kick

  • Crunchy spring rolls

  • Warm, comforting rice bowls
    Every dish here feels like a cozy hug in food form — and you’ll leave feeling full, happy, and amazed it was all plant-based.

🍜 Ramen Without Regrets

The Vegan Bowls That Stole My Heart (and Slurps)

Being vegetarian in Japan can sometimes mean watching everyone else devour rich, steamy bowls of ramen… but not anymore. I found some of the best ramen I’ve ever had — and they just so happened to be vegan.

  • AFURI Ramen, Tokyo
    Their vegan yuzu ramen is light, citrusy, and SO refreshing. Plus, the staff was incredibly kind and helped me customize everything to keep it fully plant-based. 10/10 for flavor and vibes.

  • UZU Ramen, Tokyo & Kyoto
    Futuristic interiors, mind-blowing bowls. Their menu is completely vegan — and the broth? Deep, complex, and beautifully layered. A ramen-lover’s dream.

  • Jikasei Mensho, Tokyo
    I’m still dreaming about the Creamy Vegan Tantanmen here. It’s rich, nutty, a little spicy, and so, so comforting. Pro tip: go early — it’s popular for a reason.

  • Moon & Back Ramen Bar, Kyoto
    Super Instagrammable and equally delicious. This spot does a beautiful job fusing modern Japanese design with hearty, soul-warming ramen.

🌿 Hidden Gem: Kyoto Engine

Small Menu, Big Flavour

This little café tucked away in Kyoto quickly became one of my favorite finds. Kyoto Engine has just two vegan dishes — but they’ve perfected both. I went for the second one (don’t worry, you’ll know it when you see it), and it blew my mind. Think bold flavors, local ingredients, and a cozy space that feels like a secret you’re happy to have discovered.

🍱 Zen Dining at Kyoto Garden Restaurant Yachiyo

Tofu, Tranquility, and a Whole Lot of Beauty

Imagine eating a multi-course meal surrounded by lush gardens and koi ponds, sipping green tea while soft koto music plays in the background. That’s Yachiyo for you.

Their vegetarian set menu is an unforgettable experience — delicate, seasonal dishes served on beautiful ceramics. The tofu was silken and creamy, the pickled vegetables were punchy and bright, and the whole experience felt like dining in a peaceful dream. A Kyoto must-do.

🍤 Tempura That’ll Make You Swoon

  • Izakaya Ikedaya Hananomai, Kyoto
    A super local izakaya with light, crispy vegetable tempura that’s just right with a cold drink. Sit at the counter and watch the action — it’s dinner and a show.

  • Standing Tempura Bar Kiku, Tokyo
    A tiny, bustling spot where you order by pointing and eat standing up like a local. The veggie tempura is fried to perfection and comes out fast, hot, and fresh. Great for a quick bite!

🍣 Bonus Round: More Vegetarian Gems

Still hungry? Here’s your bonus foodie list of all-veggie stunners:

  • Vegan Sushi, Tokyo – Beautiful, intricate, and packed with umami. Yes, sushi can be fully vegan and still magical.

  • T’s Tantan, Tokyo Station – Ramen lovers, rejoice! This spot INSIDE Tokyo Station serves bowls of spicy vegan tantanmen that are rich, comforting, and completely addictive.

  • Ain Soph, Tokyo – One of the most popular vegan chains in Japan. Their burgers, pancakes, and curries are always on point.

  • Vegan Bistro Jangara, Tokyo – Another ramen find that checks all the boxes: cozy, flavorful, and 100% plant-based.

✨ Final Thoughts: Plant-Based in Japan? ABSOLUTELY.

Don’t let the reputation fool you — being vegetarian in Japan is no longer a struggle. It’s an adventure. From bold and spicy ramen to delicate Kyoto tofu, I discovered a world of flavor, creativity, and kindness — all without meat or fish.

So the next time someone tells you Japan isn’t veg-friendly, send them this post. And when you head to Tokyo or Kyoto, take this list with you — and get ready to eat your heart out (plant-based, of course).


📌 Save this post for your next Japan trip.

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Categories: Travel with Shivesh Tags: Bake With Shivesh, food blogging, shivesh bhatia

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Hello. I'm Shivesh Bhatia, a food blogger, author and food stylist from Delhi, India. Welcome to Bake With Shivesh, where I'll help you create magic in your kitchens with my simple recipes. Read More

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