For decades, vegetarian dining in Bangkok was synonymous with rice and curry dishes crafted from tofu, soy protein, and additives. However, a rapid transformation occurred almost overnight. Chefs embraced creativity, menus underwent a renaissance, and a wave of trendy specialized restaurants emerged.

New culinary terms entered the lexicon: legumes, quinoa charcoal burger, chia seed Pad Thai, tempeh. And just like that Bangkok became a vegan- and vegetarian-friendly city.

Recently, the Tourism Authority of Thailand introduced vegetarian dining guides, designed to immerse visitors in the nation’s vibrant culinary culture.

Here are ten exceptional establishments that offer locally sourced, organic ingredients prepared through a range of cooking techniques – from innovative fusions and holistic creations to traditional Thai and Western indulgence. Satisfy your meat-free cravings while nurturing harmony with our animal companions.

PLANTIFUL

A mere 10-minute stroll from Ekkamai BTS Station is Plantiful’s delightful world of plant-based gastronomy, alongside energizing juices and aromatic coffee. Embracing unadulterated, chemical-free plant origins—think legumes, nuts, seeds, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables—the essence of Plantiful’s culinary artistry lies in crafting genuine, nourishing, and preservative-free indulgences. The menu presents an exquisite fusion of Asian flavours, spotlighting culinary gems such as the Braised Fish Maw Soup, Burmese Tea Leaf Salad, Baked Cabbage Rolls, and the alluring Pumpkin Almond Tart.

Open from 8am-9pm (Monday-Friday) and 9am-8pm (Saturday-Sunday)

Website: https://th.plantifulbkk.com

GOLDEN STATE VEGAN

Step up to the crossroads of Japanese Wabi Sabi and California High Desert ambiance at Golden State Vegan in the heart of Bangkok. Tucked away on Ekkamai 12 Alley, this culinary haven blends the traditional Japanese fare with the lively hues and inviting warmth of modern Californian cuisine. From elegantly minimalist Nigiri and Hand Roll Sushi to vibrant Maki Rolls bursting with flavour, each dish tells a tale of artistry and taste. Amidst Asian-inspired pleasures, savour delectable rice and noodle creations with an irresistible zest. Elevating the vegan experience, an impressive wine selection and signature cocktails await.

Open daily from 12pm to 11pm

Website: Goldenstate-vegan.com

KHUN CHURN IN WHITE

With a 30-year legacy to its name, Khun Churn in White originated in Chiang Mai and is now flourishing in Bangkok on Sukhumvit between Ekkamai and Thonglor and in Ngamwongwan. This establishment defies the notion that vegetarian fare lacks flavour by presenting a tasty and spicy Thai menu. Signature dishes such as Kaeng Phed Ped Yang (vegetarian duck in a luscious red curry) and Laab Khua (spicy minced tofu salad) exemplify this flavourful reimagining. Yam Som O, a delightful Thai pomelo salad intertwined with roasted sesame, coconut, chili, and fresh herbs, wrapped in chaphu leaves, is a highlight. Indulge in plant-based Thai Green Curry and the irresistible Pad Thai noodles. With an extensive selection spanning appetizers, noodles, and standalone creations, Khun Churn promises a fulfilling vegetarian journey.

Open daily from 10am to 7pm

Website: www.facebook.com/KhunChurninwhite

BROCCOLI REVOLUTION

Living up to its name, Broccoli Revolution propels Bangkok’s vegan scene forward with a cosy atmosphere and a vast plant-based menu, spanning vegan burgers, wraps, and inventive beverages. With branches at Central Embassy, Charoen Krung, and Sukhumvit 49, the eatery offers a diverse array of delectable dishes inspired by Italian, South American, Myanmar, Vietnamese and Thai cuisine. From timeless Thai classics like Chia Seed Pad Thai and Green Curry to modern delights such as the Broccoli and Quinoa Charcoal Burger, the menu caters to all tastes.

Open daily at Sukhumvit 49 and Central Embassy from 10.30am to 9pm. The Charoenkrung branch operates Tuesday to Sunday, 12pm to 8pm.

Website: bcrweb.kloud.kitchen

RASAYANA RETREAT

Hidden away down Sukhumvit Soi 39, this holistic wellness centre invites visitors to embrace a nourishing lifestyle through its rejuvenating programmes and raw vegan cuisine. Their offerings are entirely free from animal products, wheat, gluten, and dairy. For instance, their Pasta Carbonara features zucchini pasta, a creamy cashew carbonara sauce, coconut bacon, nutritional yeast parmesan flakes, and a garnish of parsley. Exploring the wonders of plant-based and raw food, you’ll discover delights like eggplant Lasagna, Tom Kha soup, and raw strawberry cheesecake.

Open daily from 9am to 6pm

Website: Rasayanaretreat.com

RUAN MAE LUI

Southern Thai cuisine is famed for its intense flavours and fiery spices, with standout dishes like Khua Kling dry curry; Sataw Pad Kapi (stir-fried stink beans), and the robust sour yellow curry highlighting its distinct character. For a meat-free take on southern fare, Ruan Mae Lui is your place. With branches in Taling Chan and Rama 9 (near The Nine Centre Rama 9), this Thai eatery caters seamlessly to both carnivores and herbivores. Vegetarian and vegan enthusiasts will relish their expansive selection of plant-based offerings. Be sure to indulge in the Krang mushroom curry, Miang with vegan fish, and Lhon featuring a medley of fresh vegetables. The intense and spicy southern flavours can be tailored to a milder palate upon request.

Open daily from 10.30am to 9pm

MUNCH BOX BY NIDHI

Situated within the Bambini Villa complex on Sukhumvit Soi 26, MUNCH BOX By Nidhi stands as an upscale vegan restaurant, presenting an array of vegan delicacies spanning Indian and Asian fusion cuisines. This chic establishment is an oasis for day-long dining, featuring open and breezy interiors as well as an expansive outdoor deck for al fresco meals. The restaurant’s decor is a blend of cream, gold, and emerald green tones, with a mix of cosy sofa-style group tables and traditional seating surrounding a plant-adorned wooden centrepiece. Highlighting their popular offerings are the Veganasia Chili Potato, Signature Vegan Lamb Curry, Tandoori Veggies Platter, and Organic Tofu Tikka.

Open daily from 11.30 to 9.30pm

Website: www.munchboxvegan.com

HUMMUS BOUTIQUE

Located in the upscale Thonglor neighbourhood, Hummus Boutique is a home for hummus lovers, vegetarians, vegans and meat-free food enthusiasts. With two decades of traditional humus making and Mediterranean cuisine, this intimate eatery offers an expansive and tantalizing menu, featuring a myriad of hummus variations from classic to innovative, such as mushroom, avocado, and cauliflower hummus. The selection extends beyond hummus to encompass delights like tabouli, dolmades, falafels, feta-stuffed aubergine, shakshuka, Greek and Arabic salads, and za’atar-dusted deep-fried bread. The result is a harmonious tapestry of nourishing Mediterranean indulgence.

Open daily from9.30am to 9.30pm.

Visit: hummusboutique.net

VEGANERIE

Veganerie, born from a vegan family’s desire to share their positive plant-based journey, established a humble bakery in 2016. Now with eight branches across Bangkok, it brings accessible vegan delights to enthusiasts. The eatery’s modern, open-kitchen design is complemented by lush hanging plants. The menu spans Western, Thai, and fusion cuisines, featuring burgers, pastas, rice and curries, pastries, cakes, sundaes, and an array of plant-based beverages. Discover Veganerie at EmQuartier, Sukhumvit Soi 24, Siam Paragon, and five other locations, all offering a diverse and delightful vegan experience.

Open daily from 9.30am and 10pm, with slight variations depending on the location.

Website: www.veganerie.co.th

WALEE VEGETARIAN

The latest Bangkok vegan and vegetarian restaurant openings in Bangkok may generate social media excitement with their fancy dishes, but it’s the unassuming old-school rice-and-curry eateries that quietly sustain the city with affordable and delicious meat-free options. Among them, Walee Vegetarian stands out with its two branches in EmQuartier food court and Ekkamai 19, offering an array of curries, vegetable dishes, rice, soups, and noodles, delivering an exquisite Thai and Asian culinary experience.

Open daily from 10am to 10pm

Website: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100071907888489

By Thai PBS World Feature Desk