Vegan at Restaurants

When eating out just smile, be nice, and don't be hesitant. You would be surprised how many places are happy to make something special for you, or can alter the menu food. You don’t have to miss out on Japanese food- especially when you’re out with friends and don’t want to make a big deal about it. If you are comfortable with it, you can say you have allergies.

"Nashi"

nashi is going to be a very important word.

Katsuo (bonito) is in SO many things, including flavoring a lot of soy sauces and dashi (broth) and sprinkled on top of things. Always say katsuo-nashi (without katsuo) when you order something that will most likely have it. Offer a substitute by saying you can eat konbu-dashi, or just hot water (and bring your own seasonings to add in).

Safe Bets

• Kaiten Sushi (回転寿司)

  There is kyūri (cucumber), inari (sweet fried tofu), yuba (tofu skin), nasu (eggplant), ume-shiso (plum and shiso leaf), nattō, pickles, etc. You can always ask for something to be made if you see something good with katsuo/egg/mayo on it, just ask for it without it! There is also plain fruit and edamame available.

• Okonomiyaki (お好み焼き)

  Usually fine too, just ask for vegetable-only (yasai dake) and without eggs (tamago-nashi). Ordering pizza and pasta are just the same with no cheese: chiizu-nashi.

• Shōjin Ryōri (精進料理)

  There is a type of Buddhist cuisine eaten by the monks at many temples that is vegetarian-friendly and often vegan-friendly as well. It can be very expensive with many courses, but the whole experience is beautiful and you should treat yourself. Some temples' restaurants/vendors may offer some cheaper versions.

• Tea Ceremony (茶道)

  If attending a tea ceremony, all the sweets are safe except for the marshmallow ones (which I’ve only experienced once out of numerous times).

• Natural Buffet (自然食バイキング)

  There is a type of restaurant that is becoming more popular all over Japan which is termed "natural" buffets, generally meaning the food is grown at a local organic farm. Not everything is veg-friendly but there is a large selection and you'll get your choice from a bunch of friendly options.

  Moku Moku Farms is one such farm in Mie that runs three restaurants around the prefecture in Matsusaka, Suzuka, and Tsu.

Veggie Restaurants

Sadly, many restaurants are in and out of business quickly. Make sure to check these vegetarian-centric restaurant lists and online to be sure they are still open.

Many all-natural/veggie restaurants also have a small section of whole foods to purchase.

• www.happycow.net
• www.veganjapan.net
• bento.com - Tokyo veggie listings
• bento.com - Kansai veggie listings