15 plant-based brunches at vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Singapore
Healthy food and eating clean has never been this easy
Text: Lewee Hoi Han
The popularity of clean eating in Singapore does not appear to be wavering. Thankfully, restaurants are taking the hint and there are now a plethora of vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Singapore offering delicious meals packed with vegetables, fruits, whole grains and legumes that not only boost our nutrition, but put a more environmentally friendly spin on a plant-based brunch. (Or breakfast, lunch and dinner tbh)
As well as helping with weight control, a plant-based diet reduces the risks of contracting certain chronic diseases and plays a role in saving Mother Earth. A study found that 78% of total agricultural emissions are caused by the production of animal products. Hence, by eating less meat, we not only help rebalance the natural ecosystem, but also reduce greenhouse gas emissions and slow down climate change.
From major hotel-chains to small standalone plant-based establishments, healthy eating on the Red Dot has never been more celebrated. So, whether you’re looking to eat more greens, have dietary restrictions, or are just intrigued by what eating clean is all about, here are The Soothe’s top choices.
Governed by the food philosophy “Eat good, feel good”, Kitchen by Food Rebel believes that healthy food can be imaginative and tasty, its menu features reinvented local and international cuisines that are mostly dairy-free, gluten-free and nut-free. Coconut oat pancakes, buckwheat porridge with cashew butter and rendang eggs benedict grace the plant-based brunch menu so don’t visit in your skinny jeans. Their humble abode is situated on Stanley Street, so if you’re interested in joining their health rebellion, do drop by for a revolutionary visit.
2) WellSmoocht
Tucked in a cosy corner within Sing Min Centre, WellSmoocht is perhaps one of the most underrated vegan cafes in Singapore. Serving dairy-free, eggless cakes (vegan burnt cheesecake anyone?), brownies and even waffles without compromising on taste or texture. We love their dairy-free r’ice creams which are made using organic brown rice milk and sweetened by unrefined organic cane juice. There’s also an all-day brunch set, burgers, pizzas, sandwiches and grain bowls.
Carrotsticks & Cravings is an Australian-inspired brand dedicated to bringing you healthier but no less hearty brunch creations. Apart from your usual brunch fanfare, those with special dietary restrictions will be delighted to know that their menu features a handful of gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free items. They also provide classes on healthy cooking, food styling, food photography and more. Situated in Dempsey and Robertson Quay, diners get to hang out amongst the lush greenery while they eat. One for your best gal pals.
4) Privé
The Privé Group is a name familiar to many. Are you aware, however, that their extensive menu features a large number of plant-based offerings? We’re not talking about conventional dishes like avocado or scrambled egg on toast. Flourless oat-pancakes, plant-based sausage muffins and impossible meat burgers await here offering the best of health and innovation. One thing that we love is just how detailed their food menu is, so you can truly understand what you’re getting and why it’s so good for you.
Having opened its doors not long ago in newly revamped Great World City, this bakery-deli joint produces salads, sandwiches and mains fresh from the deli counter daily. Expect global flavours that are also comfortingly reminiscent of home-cooked meals. We recommend their vegan sourdoughs that come in a variety of flavours and shakes made using r’ice creams.
Just a stone’s throw away from Sixth Avenue’s MRT station, The Living Café create dishes that are dairy-free and meat free, and free of preservatives and refined sugar and oils. Their newly launched all day breakfast menu offers keto specials such as avocado cucumber gazpacho and salmon and daiko noodle salad; and paleo options like sweet potato rosti and walnut taco bowls on top of dietary alternatives.
Afterglow is a farm-to-table restaurant on Keong Saik Road offering creative renditions of conventional dishes that are completely plant-based and gluten-free. Choose from Mexican, Italian, Mediterranean and Asian flavours, or better still, travel the world in one sitting when you fill your table with an international feast. The restaurant is flexible in tweaking their recipes according to your dietary needs so come with an empty tummy for a kick ass global party.
8) Original Sin
The first and only Mediterranean vegetarian restaurant in Singapore, Original Sin serves a variety of dips, salads, breads, Italian pastas, Mediterranean mains and an award-winning wine list. Located within the charming enclave of Chip Bee Gardens, choose either to dine alfresco under the stars or amidst their candlelit interior for a romantic yet healthful experience.
9) Whole Earth
Having been awarded the Michelin Bib Gourmand for four consecutive years from 2016–2019, Whole Earth is a restaurant not to be missed. The first and only Peranakan–Thai vegetarian restaurant in Singapore, this leading establishment in Tanjong Pagar has definitely elevated the local plant-based dining experience. We recommend their Penang Rendang for its robust flavours and addictively satisfying chew.
10) Greendot
With 10 outlets across the island, Greendot is no stranger to Singapore’s plant-based food community. An Asian-fusion meat-free fast casual concept, this established chain business focuses on providing nutritious meals that are convenient, accessible and affordable for all. Get 20 cents off per item on takeaway orders when you bring your own container.
11) Real Food
Real Food is a vegetarian café kickstarted by the organic grocery shop Real Food Grocer. With two outlets at South Beach and Orchard Central, they’re committed to providing food that is completely natural and nasties-free — think no processed ingredients, no artificial preservatives and no trans-fats. Their menu showcases an extensive selection of salads, all day breakfasts, burgers, pastas and Asian-inspired dishes. Their tastefully decorated outlet in Orchard Central is a great spot for their spin on spring rolls and fried dumplings.
12) Annalakshmi
Run largely by volunteer staff, Annalakshmi is a revolutionary dining concept in Central Square where there are no fixed prices and diners pay what they ‘feel’. Their buffet-styled spread features a wide variety of authentic vegetarian North and South Indian cuisine that is crafted lovingly from long-running family recipes. With an emphasis on service instead of profit, this passionate community will leave your tummy filled, but your heart even fuller.
13) Komala Vilas
Having operated for 73 years, Komala Vilas is one of Singapore's oldest Indian vegetarian restaurants. Located within Little India, this restaurant aims to provide traditional Indian food that is nutritious and balanced for the body. Indulge in hearty and rich North Indian gravies or savour fragrant, South India inspired rice and lentil blends for a gastronomical but wholesome dining experience.
14) Joie
Who says you can’t fine dine meat-free? Influenced by the dining trends of Europe and Taiwan, Joie offers meatless-menu of Japanese-European delicacies that please both the eyes and palate. Their private rooms offer spectacular views of the city from Orchard Central’s rooftop garden and can be booked at no additional cost.
The 6 Course Set Lunch is priced at SGD 39.80++ and 7 Course Set Dinner is priced at SGD 69.80++ per person.
15) Elemen
Expect natural and meatless cuisine focused on sustainability at the elegant Elemen. Their wild mushroom and white truffle pizza is a real crowd pleaser, but we at The Soothe are all over their chewy rosemary breadsticks dipped into a raspberry yogurt sauce.
Ala-carte ordering is available but the 5 and 8 course sets at SGD 26.80++ and SGD 32.80++ respectively are worth considering.
