22 restaurants that offer plant-based meals

We’ve narrowed down our favourite places to visit for vegetarian and vegan food

Text: Hui Yi Phua

Vegan Sweet Potato & Chickpea Bowl  (credit: Kitchen By Food Rebel Facebook Page)

Vegan Sweet Potato & Chickpea Bowl (credit: Kitchen By Food Rebel Facebook Page)

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 places 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 meal.

 

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.

 

1)    Kitchen By Food Rebel 

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. Some of their popular dishes include the Chicken Protein Bowl ($19), which is a mix of hormone-free chicken, hummus, avocado, pumpkin and tahini dressing, and the Zoodle Bolognese ($18), which plays on the classic Bolognese by replacing the traditional pasta noodles with zucchini noodles.    

 

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. If you’re looking for something more substantial, their Truffle Cheeseburger Pizza ($18.90) is definitely a must-try.

 

3)    Carrotsticks & Cravings 

Carrotsticks & Cravings is an Australian-inspired brand dedicated to bringing you healthier but no less hearty food. 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.

Pesto Zoodles (credit: The Living Café Facebook Page)

Pesto Zoodles (credit: The Living Café Facebook Page)

5)    The Living Café

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 all day breakfast menu offers keto specials such as Avocado Cucumber Gazpacho ($10) and Salmon and Daikon Noodle Salad ($23); and paleo options like Pesto Zoodles ($16) and Zucchini Lasagne ($20) on top of dietary alternatives.

 

6)    Afterglow by Anglow 

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. While you’re there, you must try their famous Kimchi Avocado Rolls ($14.00) and Tom Yum Zoodles ($20.00), both highly popular among customers.

 

7)    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. Some of their specialties include the Absolut Pasta ($27.00) and the Mezze Platter ($23.00), which features fried feta, tzatziki and pita bread with a variety of dips.

 

8)    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 ($22) for its robust flavours and addictively satisfying chew.

 

9)     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. You can try their bento sets that start at $7.90, or their popular Laksa noodles priced at $7.50. Remember to bring your own container to enjoy $0.20 off when you purchase any of their mains.

 

10)     Real Food 

Real Food is a vegetarian café kickstarted by the organic grocery shop Real Food Grocer. With a total of four outlets across the island, 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 Fried Spring Rolls ($6.00) and Fried Dumplings ($10.80).

 

11)     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, like thali and dosai, 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.

 

12)     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. Their dishes are affordable, with their banana leaf Rice Meal and Dosai Meal both priced at $10.00 each.

Grill Summer Mushroom Steak on “Pu-Ye” Hot Stone (credit: Joie Facebook Page)

Grill Summer Mushroom Steak on “Pu-Ye” Hot Stone (credit: Joie Facebook Page)

13)     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.

 

14)     Elemen 

Expect natural and meatless cuisine focused on sustainability at the elegant Elemen. Their Wild Mushroom and White Truffle Pizza ($17.80) is a real crowd pleaser, but we at The Soothe are all over their chewy Rosemary Breadsticks ($2.80) dipped into a Raspberry Yogurt Sauce.

 

Ala-carte ordering is available but the 5 and 8 course sets at $26.80++ and $32.80++ respectively are worth considering.

 

15)     The Boneless Kitchen 

With a goal to make their customers fall in love with meatless dishes, this restaurant and the food they serve is packed with both ambition and heart. Located near Tai Seng MRT, this restaurant prides itself as a social enterprise which offers mouth-watering Korean delicacies that are 100 percent vegetarian and vegan. Here, you will be able to find plant-based renditions of your K-food favourites such as Soondubu Jjigae (Spicy Soft Tofu Stew) ($14) and Bibimbap ($13).

 

16)     Green Common 

Located in Vivocity, Green Common establishes itself as a one-stop destination for all your plant-based needs. The multi-purpose concept store features a 112-seater eatery and a retail corner with a wide selection of meat-free brands from all over the world. The eatery’s menu include meatless renditions of the usual Asian staples such as Hainanese Chicken Rice and Banh Mi. If you’re dropping by for lunch, consider getting their lunch sets for one/two ($17++/$38++).

 

17)     The Kind Bowl 

This Vietnamese-cuisine restaurant was inspired by recent global efforts to ‘Go Green’ and ‘Eat Clean’. The Kind Bowl uses sustainable ingredients for their menu, which features the BBQ Delight ($12.80), a tangy, dry noodle dish, and The Kind Pho ($10.80). If you’re up for some healthy, hearty Vietnamese food, you can find The Kind Bowl at Killiney Road, near Somerset MRT.

 

18)     Genesis Vegan Restaurant 

A cosy café themed vegan restaurant, Genesis promises an array of affordable plant-based dishes such as their crowd-favourite dumplings ($6.00) and lagsana ($9.90). They keep their food healthy by choosing ingredients with rich nutrient values and placing strict emphasis on the level of salt, sugar, and oil used. For a wallet-friendly vegan/vegetarian meal, visit this restaurant at Havelock II, right next to Clarke Quay MRT.

 

19)     Vege Pot 

Vege Pot is an unassuming little shop located on the second floor of Fortune Centre, a hot spot for vegetarian eateries. They serve a wide variety of homely vegetarian food that features mainly vegetables and minimal mock meat. Loyal regulars will recommend their Sweet Vinegar Mushroom Rice and their Handmade ‘Unagi’ Rice, both priced at $7.90.

credit: Love Handle Burgers Facebook Page

credit: Love Handle Burgers Facebook Page

20)     Love Handle Burgers 

Hamburgers are usually associated with meat patties, but not at this restaurant. Situated at Ann Siang Hill, Love Handle Burgers is a fast food brand with a difference – everything on their menu is fully plant-based. Their burgers are made from Impossible and TiNDLE patties, and layered with generous amounts of vegetables, vegan cheese and homemade sauces. Besides the burgers, they also have other items like Truffle Mushroom Shepherds Pie ($10) and Tempura Broccolini ($8).

 

21)     Veganburg 

Veganburg is another restaurant that specialises in plant-based fast food. Their food is promised to be hand crafted, cholesterol-free, GMO-free and sustainable. Some of their burgers are infused with local flavours like chilli crab and satay. Their best-sellers include Creamy Shrooms ($9.90), Avocado Beetroot ($11.90), and Cracked Mayo ($7.90). You can visit their outlet at Jalan Eunos, which is between Eunos and Kembangan MRT.

 

22)     Kailash Parbat Restaurant

This global food chain serves vegetarian North Indian food that is praised to be of high-quality and authentic. A short walk away from Little India MRT, Kailash Parbat is a restaurant full of history and delicious food. Their chaat (mixture of potato pieces, crisp fried bread and chickpeas), one of their signature dishes, is highly raved about by customers. If you’re visiting on a weekend, try their Sunday lunch specials (from $7.50), or if you’re ordering for a large group (>10 people), opt for their bento boxes that start from $12.00.


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