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We love a good chicken tikka masala and lamb rogan josh as much as the next person, but the beauty of Indian cuisine truly shines through in its meatless dishes. India has the world’s largest vegetarian population and the major religions (Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, and Islam) practised in India all have dietary restrictions pertaining to not hurting life forms, with modern Jainism advocating for vegan diets. Regardless of your ethnicity or dietary choices, eating less meat is always beneficial to your health and the environment. Here’s where you can find the best Indian vegetarian restaurants in Hong Kong.
Branto is well known amongst the Indian community in Hong Kong for its authentic vegetarian South Indian cuisine. Offering an extensive menu of favourites like Mysore Masala Dosa, Dahi Puri, and Dal Fry, its dishes are Jain-friendly and not overwhelmingly spicy. You will also find variations of Indian style pizza here (the Paneer Pizza is to die for) as Branto was the first restaurant to introduce vegetarian pizza to its hometown in Gurjarat, India. Don’t judge a restaurant by its entrance—you’ll feel right at home once you’re inside and chowing down on their signature thali (set meals).
Branto, 1/F, 9–11 Lock Road, Tsim Sha Tsui | (+852) 2366 8171
Khana Khazana is a Wanchai lunch crowd favourite. With an Executive Buffet ($98) of fresh appetisers, dosa, curries and desserts at an unbelievable price, we see exactly why they’re so popular. Its à la carte options are also hefty in size, and the restaurant also boasts a bar, something not commonly found in Indian vegetarian restaurants, making it a great place to get your friends together for an Indian veggie feast.
Khana Khazana, 1/F, Dannies House, 20 Luard Road, Wan Chai | (+852) 2520 5308
Sangeetha is the Hong Kong location of a Chennai-based vegetarian chain serving up fresh, authentic, and sustainable South Indian food. The friendly service here is a definite plus compared to some other—ahem—less attentive restaurants. There’s a kids menu, heaps of dessert options, and ample seating too, and you’ll often find Sangeetha filled with local families having a get-together.
Sangeetha, UG 1–5 & 31, Wing On Plaza, 62 Mody Road, East Tsim Sha Tsui | (+852) 2640 2123
Saravana Bhavan is the largest South Indian vegetarian restaurant chain in the world, and their Hong Kong location does not disappoint. Just like its other locations, the food here is filling, inexpensive and aromatic. There’s something for everyone on the substantial menu, but we absolutely adore the dosas here.
Saravanaa Bhavan, 1/F, Catherine House, 53–55 Chatham Road, Tsim Sha Tsui | (+852) 2736 1127
Cosy, family-run Sharmaji is a Hung Hom neighbourhood gem. It has a loyal band of regulars that fill up the small shop for its hearty vegetarian dishes with a homemade feel. The walls are covered in pictures of food so you won’t have any trouble ordering what you want. The Masala Chai here is a flavourful concoction that’s comforting and refreshing even on the hottest summer day.
Sharmaji, Shop A, G/F, Block 2, Hung Hom Garden, 3 Tsing Chau Street, Hung Hom | (+852) 2334 0133
Woodlands has long been a foodie favourite and a plant-based staple in the city. It holds the title of Hong Kong’s oldest Indian vegetarian restaurant, and its quality has held up even after nearly 40 years. It has also recently added non-alcoholic beer and halal-certified alcohol-free wine to the menu, as well as a dedicated vegan menu featuring curries that retain all the lush flavours of say, a makhani, without the use of any cream or dairy products.
Woodlands, UG 16 & 17, Wing On Plaza, 62 Mody Road, Tsim Sha Tsui East | (+852) 2369 3718
Currently based in Hong Kong by way of Calgary, Inés has always had a passion for writing and her creative work can be found in obscure literary ’zines. When she’s not busy scouring the city for the best gin-based cocktail, she can be found curled up with her journal and fur-ever friend Peanut. Don’t be surprised if you cross paths with her and she already knows all your mates.
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