Traveling as a vegan used to mean surviving on plain rice and sad salads—but not anymore! The world is waking up to plant-based eating, and now you can find Vegan-friendly restaurants abroa in almost every corner of the globe.
Whether you’re exploring Tokyo’s sushi scene, indulging in Parisian pastries, or digging into spicy street food in Bangkok, this guide will help you eat like a local—without compromising your values. We’ve rounded up the best tips, must-visit spots, and how to navigate menus in any language. Let’s dig in!
What Makes a Restaurant Vegan-Friendly?
Not all restaurants labeled “vegan-friendly” are created equal. Here’s what to look for:
✔ Clearly marked vegan options – No guessing games!
Separate cooking equipment – Avoids cross-contamination.
Knowledgeable staff – They should understand what “vegan” means.
✔ Local vegan specialties – Because why settle for a basic burger when you can try authentic dishes?
Top Vegan-Friendly Restaurants Around the World
1. Europe: The Plant-Based Revolution
- Berlin, Germany – Kopps (fine dining vegan German cuisine)
- Barcelona, Spain – Teresa Carles (vegan paella & tapas)
- Rome, Italy – Rifugio Romano (vegan carbonara & tiramisu)
Pro tip: In Italy, ask for “senza formaggio, uova, o burro” (no cheese, eggs, or butter).
2. Asia: Vegan Street Food Heaven
- Bangkok, Thailand – May Veggie Home (vegan pad thai & curries)
- Tokyo, Japan – Ain Soph. Ripple (vegan ramen & katsu)
- Bali, Indonesia – Kynd Community (Instagram-worthy smoothie bowls)
Pro tip: Learn to say “gin jay” (Thai for vegan) or “beiku” (Japanese for no meat).
3. Americas: From Fast Food to Fine Dining
- New York City, USA – PLNT Burger (vegan fast food by a Michelin chef)
- Mexico City, Mexico – Gatorta (vegan tacos & churros)
- São Paulo, Brazil – Pop Vegan Food (vegan feijoada & pão de queijo)
Pro tip: In Mexico, ask for “sin crema, queso, o manteca” (no cream, cheese, or lard).
4. Middle East & Africa: Flavor-Packed Vegan Feasts
- Tel Aviv, Israel – Anastasia (vegan shakshuka & cheesecake)
- Cape Town, South Africa – The Kind Kitchen (vegan bobotie & malva pudding)
- Marrakech, Morocco – Earth Café (vegan tagines & mint tea)
Pro tip: In Morocco, say “bidun dajaj aw samak” (no chicken or fish).
How to Find Vegan Food Anywhere
Even in meat-heavy destinations, you can eat well with these tricks:
1. Use These Apps
- HappyCow – The holy grail for vegan travelers.
- Google Maps – Search “vegan restaurants near me.”
- Vanilla Bean – Great for Europe & Asia.
2. Learn Key Phrases
- French – “Je suis végétalien(ne), sans produits animaux.”
- German – “Ich bin Veganer(in), ohne tierische Produkte.”
- Mandarin – “Wǒ chī sù, bù yào ròu, nǎi, huò dàn.”
3. Look for Accidentally Vegan Dishes
- Indian – Chana masala, dal, roti.
- Ethiopian – Injera with lentil stews.
- Mediterranean – Hummus, falafel, tabbouleh.
Final Thoughts
Traveling as a vegan has never been easier—or more delicious! With a little research and these insider tips, you can enjoy Vegan-friendly restaurants abroa without stress.
Have a favorite vegan spot we missed? Drop it in the comments—we’re always hungry for recommendations!
FAQs About Vegan Dining Abroad
Q: What if there are no vegan restaurants?
A: Look for vegetarian spots, ethnic cuisines (Indian, Thai), or grocery stores.
Q: How do I avoid cross-contamination?
A: Ask if they cook vegan dishes separately, or stick to fully vegan places.
Q: Is vegan food more expensive abroad?
A: Not always! Street food and markets are often cheap and vegan-friendly.
Q: What’s the most vegan-friendly country?
A: Israel (Tel Aviv is the vegan capital!), followed by Germany and Thailand.
Q: Can I trust “vegan” labels in non-English menus?
A: Double-check—some cultures consider fish or honey vegan. When in doubt, ask!
Bon appétit—or as they say in Thailand, “Gin hai aroy!” (Eat deliciously!). 🌱✈️
