Singapore, a bustling metropolis known for its vibrant food culture, has embraced the vegan movement with open arms. From traditional hawker centers to high-end restaurants, the city offers a wide array of vegan delights. Whether you’re a lifelong vegan or simply exploring plant-based options, here’s an extensive guide to some of the best vegan food in Singapore.
1. Hawker Centre Vegan Gems
a) Thunder Tea Rice
Thunder Tea Rice, also known as Lei Cha Fan, is a traditional Hakka dish that has found its way into the hearts of health-conscious Singaporeans. This hearty bowl features a base of brown rice, a medley of finely chopped vegetables, tofu, and peanuts, served with a bowl of green tea soup. It’s not only nutritious but also bursting with earthy flavors. Try it at places like Loving Hut Vegetarian or specific stalls in hawker centers.
b) Vegan Satay
Satay is a classic Singaporean vegan food dish, and vegan-friendly versions are gaining popularity. Made with marinated tofu or tempeh, these skewers are grilled to perfection and served with a creamy peanut sauce. Look for vegan satay at stalls like Genesis Vegan Restaurant or explore pop-up events featuring plant-based renditions.
2. Vegan Cafés: A Casual Delight
a) Afterglow
Located in Chinatown, Afterglow is a chic café that specializes in raw and plant-based cuisine. Their Raw Lasagna, made with layers of zucchini, walnut meat, and cashew cheese, is a must-try. For a local twist, the café offers Vegan Rendang, a flavorful dish made with jackfruit in a rich, spicy coconut gravy.
b) WellSmoocht
WellSmoocht is a vegan dessert haven offering dairy-free ice creams, waffles, and cakes. Their coconut-based ice creams come in a variety of unique flavors like Gula Melaka and Pandan Kaya. Pair them with crispy vegan waffles for a sweet ending to your meal.
3. Fine Dining Vegan Experiences
a) Joie by Dozo
Joie by Dozo offers an elegant dining experience featuring contemporary meatless cuisine. Their 6-course or 7-course menus include innovative dishes such as Truffle Risotto and Pumpkin Velouté. Each dish is a visual masterpiece and a testament to how luxurious vegan food can be.
b) Elemen
Elemen is another fine-dining spot that crafts fusion dishes blending Asian and Western flavors. Their Avocado Sushi Roll and Vegetable Tempura are crowd favorites. Elemen’s focus on fresh ingredients and innovative presentation makes it a standout for vegan foodies.
4. Veganized Local Favorites
a) Vegan Laksa
Laksa, a spicy noodle soup, is a staple in Singaporean cuisine. Vegan versions replace the shrimp paste and fish cake with tofu, mushrooms, and plant-based milk for the broth. Try the vegan laksa at Greendot, a popular vegetarian chain with locations across the island.
b) Char Kway Teow
Char Kway Teow is a beloved wok-fried noodle dish. Vegan versions use rice noodles stir-fried with garlic, soy sauce, bean sprouts, and a mix of vegetables, omitting the eggs and lard traditionally used. Look for it at vegetarian hawker stalls or eateries like Vegan Paradise.
5. Specialty Vegan Restaurants
a) VeganBurg
As the world’s first vegan burger joint, VeganBurg has earned its place in Singapore’s culinary scene. Their Creamy Shrooms Burger and Chili Krab Burger are standout options. Pair your burger with seaweed fries or their signature broccoli for a satisfying meal.
b) Green Common
Green Common is a concept store and restaurant that offers a variety of vegan dishes and plant-based products. Their Beyond Meat Burger and OmniPork Dumplings are popular choices. The space is also great for picking up vegan groceries and snacks.
6. Dessert Heaven for Vegans
a) Brownice Ice Cream
Brownice is an artisanal vegan ice cream parlor that uses brown rice milk as a base. With flavors like Matcha, Dark Chocolate, and Strawberry, their offerings are creamy, indulgent, and dairy-free. Their vegan ice cream cakes are perfect for special occasions.
b) Kind Kones
Kind Kones specializes in all-natural, vegan ice creams free from refined sugars and preservatives. Their Salted Caramel Almond Brittle and Charcoal Vanilla flavors are crowd-pleasers. The café also offers vegan brownies and cheesecakes.
7. Vegan Groceries and Takeaways
a) Little Farms Café
Little Farms Café offers a curated selection of vegan-friendly groceries and freshly prepared meals. Their plant-based bowls and smoothies are perfect for a quick and healthy meal on the go.
b) Project Açaí
For a refreshing treat, head to Project Açaí, which serves nutrient-packed açaí bowls topped with fruits, granola, and vegan-friendly toppings. Their smoothie bowls are as Instagram-worthy as they are delicious.
8. International Vegan Cuisine
a) Whole Earth
Whole Earth is Singapore’s first and only Michelin-starred Peranakan-Thai vegetarian restaurant. Dishes like Penang Rendang and Sambal King Oyster Mushrooms are bursting with authentic flavors, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring vegan food in Singapore.
b) Love Handle
Love Handle, a plant-based butcher and deli, is a unique spot offering meatless versions of classic dishes like burgers, sausages, and roasts. Their commitment to creating realistic plant-based meats makes them a favorite among vegans and flexitarians alike.
9. Vegan Food Delivery Services
For those who prefer enjoying vegan meals at home, several delivery services specialize in plant-based options:
- Grain offers wholesome, plant-based meal deliveries with options like Vegan Bibimbap and Thai Green Curry.
- FitThree delivers meal-prep boxes tailored for vegan diets, perfect for busy professionals.
10. Vegan Food Events and Markets
Singapore’s vegan scene is vibrant, with regular events and markets that celebrate plant-based living. Events like Vegan Festival Singapore and EarthFest feature local vendors, workshops, and talks on sustainable and cruelty-free lifestyles. These events are an excellent way to discover new vegan eateries and connect with like-minded individuals.
Conclusion
Singapore’s diverse food scene ensures that vegans are spoilt for choice. From hawker stalls to fine dining establishments, the city offers a plethora of plant-based delights that cater to every palate. As the vegan movement continues to grow, new eateries and innovations are constantly emerging, making Singapore a paradise for vegan food lovers. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring the best vegan food in Singapore is a culinary adventure you won’t want to miss.
