Saigon’s got a seriously cool vegetarian food scene popping up all over the place, from chill Asian vibes to more upscale European-inspired menus. It’s pretty awesome seeing so many people getting into it. In this article, we wanted to share a list of the top 10 vegetarian restaurants that have been getting a lot of buzz around city:
1. Thien Y Vegetarian Restaurant
If you’re looking to escape the city noise and just chill, Thien Y is your spot. They’re all about pure vegetarian dishes with a menu that feels like a trip to the countryside. Think simple, comforting flavors like mango salad, coconut heart salad (seriously, try this!), different kinds of seaweed soups, fresh spring rolls, crispy Vietnamese pancakes, that classic mixed sour soup, and stir-fried water spinach with garlic. They’ve got a bunch of other yummy stuff too, so you’ll definitely find something you’re in the mood for.
The cool thing about Thien Y is they have a few different locations, and each one has its own unique menu, so it’s worth checking out more than one!
Addresses:
- Branch 1: 36 Tran Quy Cap, Ward 11, Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City.
- Branch 2: 2 Pho Quang, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City.
- Branch 3: 285A Nguyen Van Dau, Ward 11, Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 8:30 PM (Keep in mind these can change depending on the location).
2. Sen Vegetarian Restaurant
Sen Vegetarian Restaurant is another one that people rave about, and you can see why. The design is pretty elegant, with these cool lotus flower details everywhere. Downstairs is your regular table seating, but upstairs they’ve got this Japanese-style setup which is a nice touch. Walking in, you immediately feel this sense of calm and serenity, which is perfect for enjoying their delicious food. And the chefs here? They know their vegetarian stuff!
Their menu is massive – over 150 purely Vietnamese vegetarian dishes! They focus on using super fresh veggies and fruits, so you know you’re getting quality. Some of their hits include the lotus root salad, lotus leaf fried rice (a must-try!), that flavorful lemongrass chili fried tofu, and a really good Southern-style sour soup. Plus, all their appetizers and desserts are beautifully presented, making the whole experience pretty enjoyable.
Addresses:
- Branch 1: 171 Nguyen Thai Hoc, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
- Branch 2: 93-95 Pho Duc Chinh, Nguyen Thai Binh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
3. Hum Vegetarian Restaurant
Hum really pays attention to the little things, especially the vibe of their restaurants. They’ve gone for this green, nature-inspired layout that just feels warm, peaceful, and super comfortable. It’s a great place to just relax and enjoy your meal.
Their menu is packed with tasty vegetarian dishes made from all-natural stuff like beans, nuts, and fresh veggies. Everything feels really nutritious and light. Each dish at Hum is carefully put together, so you can really appreciate the colors, the smells, and of course, the flavors. They also make these amazing drinks from fresh fruits, veggies, and nuts that are not only good for you but also have these really rich and unforgettable tastes.
Addresses:
- Branch 1: 32 D10 Street, Thao Dien Ward, District 2, Ho Chi Minh City.
- Branch 2: 32 – 34 Vo Van Tan Street, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City.
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
4. Vajra Vegetarian Restaurant
Vajra is one of the older vegetarian spots in District 10, and it’s got this really distinctive look with a lot of red – it makes the place feel super warm. They’ve also got these cool Tibetan Buddhist decorations all around. The staff are always friendly, cheerful, and quick, which makes for a really good experience.
But the real reason people keep coming back to Vajra is the food. They’re super careful about picking quality ingredients and they season everything just right, so it appeals to pretty much everyone. Their signature dishes are definitely worth trying: the lotus leaf steamed rice, the Tibetan mushroom sauce and the lotus seed mushroom spring rolls. Everything is presented beautifully, tastes light and fresh without being oily, which is always a plus. Besides the main dishes, they also have some sweet soups and soft tofu that are worth checking out.
Address: 711 Le Hong Phong, Ward 12, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City.
Opening Hours: 07:00 AM – 23:00 PM.
5. Thanh Lac Vegetarian Restaurant
Thanh Lac has a modern feel with a lot of blue in its design, which gives it this gentle yet kind of luxurious vibe, but it’s still really cozy. It’s not the biggest place, maybe around 80 seats, but people love it because the prices are pretty reasonable and the food is excellent.
Their menu is packed with all sorts of tasty vegetarian dishes made with fresh ingredients – think broken rice, shredded bì rolls (vegetarian style, of course!), spring rolls, and lotus root salad. They also have a bunch of refreshing drinks that are all made with care by the chefs.
Here’s the really cool part about Thanh Lac: all the profits they make go to charity and helping people in need with free meals. So, you can enjoy a great vegetarian meal knowing you’re also contributing to a good cause.
Address: 144 Nguyen Tat Thanh, Ward 13, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City.
Opening Hours: 10:30 AM – 9:00 PM.
6. Hanh Nguyen Restaurant
Located in District 9, Hạnh Nguyen offers a tranquil and airy haven for vegetarian dining. The warm, earthy tones of the predominantly wooden décor, accented by soft lantern light, create an immediate connection to nature. As you step inside, the subtle fragrance of lemongrass and cinnamon essential oils gently eases any stress, setting the perfect mood to savor your meal.
Hạnh Nguyện takes pride in its commitment to fresh, 100% plant-based ingredients, steering clear of artificial meats and additives. This dedication ensures that each dish bursts with natural flavor and offers genuine nourishment – ideal for those seeking an authentic vegan experience.
7. Xanh Vegetarian Eatery (District 2)
If you’re on the hunt for a delightful vegetarian spot in District 2, Xanh is a must-try. Its thoughtfully designed space, enveloped in lush greenery and adorned with charming potted plants twinkling under warm lighting, immediately soothes the senses. The delicate aroma of lemongrass and lime essential oils, paired with gentle melodies, fosters a cozy, peaceful, and serene atmosphere.
Xanh’s diverse and enticing menu showcases the restaurant’s distinctive culinary approach, emphasizing fresh, light, and wholesome dishes. They’re committed to using only the finest plant-based ingredients, with absolutely no MSG or mock meats. The natural flavors derived from fresh vegetables, fruits, and nuts lend a unique touch to every creation. Be sure to sample their signature Xanh mixed vegetarian rice, special Xanh fried vegetarian rice, braised mushrooms with lotus seeds, and king oyster mushroom soup.
Address: 50 Le Van Thinh Street, Binh Trung Dong Ward, Thu Duc City, Ho Chi Minh City.
Hours: 10 AM – 2 PM, 5 PM – 10 PM.
8. Chay Garden Vegetarian Restaurant (District 3 & Thao Dien)
Chay Garden presents two distinct experiences in Ho Chi Minh City. The District 3 location, tucked away in a central alley, offers a spacious and airy retreat. Its gentle décor, dominated by soft yellow hues, creates a warm and elegant ambiance, perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape from the city’s buzz. In contrast, Chay Garden Thao Dien embraces a verdant setting with classic architectural elements and intricate wood carvings – a testament to skilled craftsmanship and a truly remarkable space.
Adding to the Thao Dien location’s allure is its premium vegetarian buffet, available for both lunch and dinner daily. This extensive spread promises a multi-sensory feast, offering a fresh and exciting way to explore their culinary offerings.
Chay Garden District 3: 52 Vo Van Tan Street, Ward 6, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City.
Chay Garden Thao Dien: 52 Xuan Thuy Street, Thao Dien Ward, Thu Duc City, Ho Chi Minh City.
Hours: 10 AM – 10 PM.
9. Pi Vegetarian Saigon (District 1)
Pi Vegetarian Saigon stands out as a verdant oasis with excellent service and a diverse vegetarian menu in Ho Chi Minh City. The restaurant’s simple design features a striking mural of lush green banana trees – a distinctly Vietnamese touch – complemented by thoughtfully placed lighting that creates a cozy, tranquil, and serene atmosphere, ideal for those who appreciate simplicity and calm.
The vegetarian dishes at Pi Vegetarian Saigon are known for their variety, fresh ingredients, and balanced flavors that appeal to the Vietnamese palate. Consider trying their lotus root soup, fried tofu with lemongrass and chili, pumpkin curry, or enoki mushroom spring rolls. While the prices lean slightly higher, the quality, beautiful presentation, and well-rounded flavors consistently deliver a satisfying experience.
Address: 3rd Floor, 187/15 Dien Bien Phu Street, Da Kao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
Hours: 10 AM – 3 PM, 5 PM – 10 PM.
10. Tue Man Vegetarian Restaurant (District 5)
Tue Man Vegetarian Restaurant, located in District 5, is a long-established and beloved dining spot for Saigon locals. Its unpretentious design fosters a peaceful and inviting atmosphere, often enhanced by soothing music, creating a wonderful setting to unwind and enjoy nourishing and delicious vegetarian cuisine.
A key highlight for many diners is the exceptional flavor of Tue Man’s dishes. Their extensive menu showcases the skillful preparation of experienced chefs, resulting in distinct yet consistently delicious and wholesome meals. Must-try items include Tue Man crispy rice, lotus root salad, cordyceps flower soup, sizzling Japanese tofu, king oyster mushrooms, and Hong Kong-style stir-fried noodles. With relatively affordable prices, Tue Man is a highly recommended place to explore.
Address: 59B Tran Hung Dao Street, Ward 6, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City.
Hours: 9 AM – 9 PM.
Vegetarian cuisine represents both a cultural nuance and a growing modern trend embraced by many. Beyond culinary appeal, individuals often choose a plant-based diet in pursuit of inner peace and tranquility. This lifestyle can provide a sanctuary for contemplation, offering respite from the stresses of contemporary life.