Top 10 Vegetarian-Friendly Cafes and Restaurants in Kyoto

Kyoto blends centuries-old temple cuisine with modern dining, making it one of the most vegetarian-friendly cities in Japan. Whether you’re a tourist looking for an authentic food experience or a student searching for a casual lunch spot, the city offers plenty of options that cater to plant-based diets. From riverside cafés to Michelin-recognized restaurants, here are ten trusted places where you can enjoy satisfying vegetarian meals without compromise.

1. Shio Veg Cafe

Located in the heart of Gion, Shio Veg Cafe offers a fresh take on plant-based food. The space is bright and modern, a perfect stop after exploring the historic streets. It is a favorite for local students and visitors. The menu focuses on simple, high-quality ingredients.

What to Expect: The cafe has a calm and welcoming feel. You can find both Japanese and Western-style dishes. It is a great place for lunch or a coffee break. The staff is friendly and can help with menu choices.

Don't Miss:

• The Tofu Sub Sandwich & Coffee: This sandwich features a crispy fried tofu patty on fresh, toasted bread. It comes with crisp lettuce and a tangy house sauce. This is a perfect quick lunch. Pair it with their rich, aromatic coffee for a complete and satisfying meal.

• Matcha Soy Latte: Made with premium Uji matcha, it is a perfect Kyoto drink.

2. Shigetsu

Shigetsu is inside the Tenryu-ji Temple, a World Heritage site in Arashiyama. It offers a true shojin ryori experience. You eat in a traditional tatami room with views of the temple's famous garden. This is more than a meal; it is a cultural activity.

What to Expect: The food follows Buddhist principles. It uses no meat, fish, or strong flavors like garlic and onion. The meal consists of many small, beautiful dishes. Each one highlights the natural taste of vegetables and tofu.

Don't Miss:

• The Yuki (Snow) Course: A standard multi-course meal that gives you a full introduction to shojin ryori. You must make a reservation.

3. Towzen

For a vegan ramen experience, go to Towzen. This small restaurant near Kinkaku-ji (The Golden Pavilion) specializes in soy milk-based ramen. The broth is rich and creamy without any animal products.

What to Expect: The place is small and cozy. You might need to wait, but the food is worth it. It is a unique twist on a Japanese classic.

Don't Miss:

• Musashi Ramen: Their signature bowl. The soy milk broth is complex and full of flavor.

4. Ain Soph. Journey Kyoto

Ain Soph. Journey is a stylish vegan restaurant located near Nishiki Market. It has a beautiful interior and a diverse menu. They are famous for their Western-style vegan dishes.

What to Expect: The restaurant offers a modern dining experience. It is great for a special lunch or dinner. The atmosphere is relaxed and chic.

Don't Miss:

• Heavenly Pancakes: Fluffy, tall pancakes served with fruit and cream. They are a popular choice for brunch.

• Karaage Plate: Japanese-style fried "chicken" made from soy meat.

5. Mumokuteki Cafe

Mumokuteki is a large cafe and lifestyle store near the Teramachi Shopping Arcade. It is very popular with young people and families. The menu features healthy, organic, and vegetarian-friendly Japanese food.

What to Expect: A bustling and spacious environment. You can eat a full meal or just have a drink and dessert. They focus on local and seasonal ingredients.

Don't Miss:

• Okara Korokke Plate: A set meal featuring croquettes made from okara (soy pulp). It is healthy and tastes great.

6. Veg Out

Veg Out sits right on the Kamo River. The view is one of the best in Kyoto. This all-vegan restaurant offers healthy and creative dishes. It is a perfect spot for a relaxing meal, especially on a sunny day.

What to Expect: A bright space with large windows overlooking the river. The food is fresh and beautifully presented.

Don't Miss:

• The Lunch Plate: A daily special that includes a main dish, salad, and several small side dishes. The menu changes with the seasons.

7. Engine Ramen

Engine Ramen is known for its vegan flame-seared ramen. Located in the Pontocho alley area, it provides a dramatic food experience. The chefs use a blowtorch to sear the ramen right in front of you.

What to Expect: A fun, energetic atmosphere. The open kitchen lets you watch the chefs at work. It is a memorable dining event.

Don't Miss:

• Vegan Flame Ramen: Their signature dish. The searing process adds a deep, smoky flavor to the broth.

8. Itadakizen

This restaurant focuses on macrobiotic and vegan Japanese food. Itadakizen believes in the connection between food, health, and the environment. The meals are balanced and designed to be nourishing.

What to Expect: A calm and simple setting. The food is traditional and carefully prepared. It is a good choice for a very healthy meal.

Don't Miss:

• The Itadakizen Set: A classic set meal that includes brown rice, soup, and a variety of vegetable dishes.

9. Choice Cafe and Restaurant

Choice is a vegan and gluten-free restaurant that specializes in plant-based cheese. Their "cheeses" are made from fermented nuts. They offer a unique menu that you cannot find elsewhere in Kyoto.

What to Expect: A modern cafe feel. It is a great place for people with dietary restrictions or those curious about vegan cheese.

Don't Miss:

• Vegan Cheese Pizza: A pizza made with their house-made nut cheese.

• The Vegan Cheese Platter: A selection of their different nut cheeses to try.

10. Hale

Hale is a small, family-run restaurant near the Kyoto Imperial Palace. It serves home-style vegan Japanese lunches. The name "Hale" means "sun" in Hawaiian and "special day" in Japanese.

What to Expect: A very personal and welcoming atmosphere. The owner prepares everything with great care. The menu is small and changes daily.

Don't Miss:

Daily Lunch Set: This is the only item on the menu. It is always fresh, balanced, and delicious. You feel like you are eating a home-cooked meal.