Whether you’re vegetarian for a day or for life, Singapore’s diverse plant-based offerings prove that going meat-free doesn’t mean missing out.
Many people turn to a plant-based diet for different reasons — for some, it’s about embracing a healthier lifestyle; for others, environmental concerns, ethical values, or cultural traditions take centre stage. In recent years, innovation has also played a role, with plant-based alternatives like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods making vegetarian choices even more accessible and appealing.
No matter your reason for exploring the world of greens, there’s no shortage of delicious options in Singapore. Across the island, eateries are serving up creative, flavour-packed dishes that show how satisfying a meat-free meal can be. Here are 10 that are worth adding to your must-try list.
Greendot has been delighting diners with its plant-based dishes served with a local twist since 2011. Popular picks include its rice bentos, which offer combinations such as fragrant turmeric basmati rice with moreish rendang lion’s mane mushrooms (pictured above) — “meaty”, flavourful morsels cooked in a coconut curry sauce. Another favourite is its laksa, accompanied by a punchy vegetarian sambal. Greendot has also expanded its offerings to include vegan cakes and pastries. Dishes that are vegan, or contain egg or milk, are clearly indicated on its menu for easy reference.
For tze char-style vegetarian dishes, head to New Fut Kai Vegetarian Restaurant. A standout is its selection of charcoal hotpots — from the famous laksa version featuring a broth made with over 20 spices, to the Yuzu Coconut Miso ‘Beauty’ Pot, packed with collagen-rich peach gum and white fungus. Other signature dishes include Nyonya curry soy ‘fish’ and Shan Yao Tofu. A fully vegan menu is available upon request. Closed on Mondays.
Genesis Vegan Restaurant is a familiar name in Singapore’s vegetarian scene, serving hearty plant-based fare since 2006. Founded by a dietician, a retired nurse, and a retired teacher, the eatery at Havelock Road is known for wholesome creations like vegan dumplings, Nyonya laksa, mushroom and tofu bak kut teh with rice, and the Mexican-inspired “7-Layer Haystack” — a vibrant stack of corn chips, raw veggies, salsa, rice, and beans. Helpful icons on the menu indicate if a dish contains garlic, onion, or is gluten-free.
With outlets at Orchard Central and Yishun, Real Food offers a variety of plant-based meals, from all-day breakfasts to soups and burgers. Crowd favourites include sweet pumpkin pancakes served with fresh seasonal fruits and berry coulis, and handmade dumplings packed with over 10 ingredients like carrots, mushrooms, bean curd, and celery. Another popular pick is the Beet Millet Burger, featuring a handmade patty of beetroot, carrots, onions, millet, and potatoes. Vegan, gluten-free, and allium-free options (i.e. no garlic, onions, shallots, leeks, or chives) are available. Real Food also runs Slow Bakes, its in-house bakery specialising in sourdough and naturally leavened breads.
If you’re in Hougang, drop by Lucky Cat for Japanese and Korean-inspired fare. This heartland eatery specialises in rice bowls, noodles, onigiri, and snacks. To replicate the texture and flavour of meat, dishes make use of plant-based substitutes like konjac and mushrooms. Besides its savoury options, Lucky Cat is also known for its speciality coffee, tea, and chocolate drinks. Dishes containing milk, honey, or eggs are clearly indicated on the menu. Closed on Wednesdays.
Lotus Vegetarian at Holiday Inn Express and Suites Singapore Novena offers wholesome, meat-free Chinese fare. Tuck into delicately handmade vegetarian dim sum and classic dishes infused with wok hei. Highlights include the Golden Jumbo Prawn in Signature Chilli Sauce, Kung Pao Lion’s Mane Mushroom in Yam Ring, and Red Quinoa Fried Rice with Toon Leaves. Opened in 2003, Lotus Vegetarian’s dishes are prepared without alcohol, onion, or garlic, catering to a wide range of dietary preferences.
For a meatless Korean barbecue experience, head to The Boneless Kitchen near Tai Seng MRT. Specialising in Korean vegetarian and vegan cuisine, this homely eatery is beloved for its piping hot stews, sizzling hotpots, and hearty barbecue plates. Regulars especially appreciate the restaurant’s flavour-packed, house-made kimchi and sauces — created without meat, garlic, onion, shallot, leek, or chives. Beyond its plant-based menu, The Boneless Kitchen also champions inclusivity by employing individuals with physical or mental challenges.
Ki Su Shoujin Omakase along Tras Street promises to change the mind of even the most devoted meat lovers. Helmed by chefs inspired by Japanese and French culinary traditions, this elegant omakase experience prides itself on being “a vegetarian restaurant not just for vegetarians”. Expect masterful dishes woven with the artistry of shojin ryori (Japanese Buddhist cuisine), delivering surprising textures and flavours from humble plant-based ingredients.
At nearby Peck Seah Street, Whole Earth is Singapore’s first and only plant-based restaurant to receive the Michelin Bib Gourmand since 2016, fusing Peranakan and Thai flavours to glorious effect. Don’t miss its signature Nonya Penang Rendang (pictured above), where shiitake mushrooms are marinated in a rich mix of herbs and spices. Another highlight is the Sawadee Larb, a vegetarian take on spicy Thai minced pork lettuce wraps. Even the house-made sambal chilli packs a punch — without any shrimp paste, garlic, or shallots.
Original Sin, nestled in Chip Bee Gardens, has been delighting diners since 1997 as Singapore’s first vegetarian Mediterranean restaurant. Known for its bold, creative flavours, the fine-dining spot offers must-tries like its Magic Mushrooms — a baked whole Portobello mushroom with spinach and ricotta, crowned with tomato basil sauce and mozzarella. Vegan diners can opt for a ratatouille-stuffed version instead. Original Sin’s Mezze Platter — featuring hummus, beetroot and walnut dip, fried feta, falafel balls, and pita bread — is another signature and can be made gluten-free with crudités (mixed raw vegetables). Most dishes can be prepared vegan, gluten-free, or without onion and garlic — with helpful menu annotations to guide you.
Fortune Centre remains a hidden gem for vegetarians. While it has recently gained buzz with new eateries, its four-storey podium has long been a favourite for affordable and diverse vegetarian options, thanks to its proximity to Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple on Waterloo Street.
There are many ways to embrace a plant-based lifestyle, depending on individual preferences and dietary choices. Here’s a quick guide to some common types:
Main Vegetarian Diets:
Other Common Plant-Based Approaches:
Sources: HealthHub, Healthline
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