A Vegetarian’s Guide to Eating in Thailand: For Indian Travelers
Thailand is a haven for food lovers, but if you’re a vegetarian, navigating the streets of Bangkok and other cities may seem a bit daunting. Thankfully, the country has a growing awareness of vegetarianism, and there are plenty of delicious plant-based options available, especially for Indian travelers. Whether you’re in bustling Bangkok or exploring scenic parts of Thailand, here’s a guide to help you enjoy mouth-watering vegetarian meals during your trip.
Key Thai Phrases for Vegetarians:
When ordering food, it helps to know a few phrases:
- “Jay” (เจ) – Indicates a vegan diet without meat, dairy, garlic, or onion (similar to the Indian Jain diet).
- “Mang-saw-wee-rat” (มังสวิรัติ) – Indicates vegetarian (without meat but may include dairy).
- “Mai sai neua sat” (ไม่ใส่เนื้อสัตว์) – No meat, please.
Bangkok: Best Spots for Vegetarian Dining
- Govinda Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria (Sukhumvit)
- Cuisine: Italian, Vegetarian
- Location: Sukhumvit Soi 22
- Must Try: Veggie lasagna, spinach ravioli, and wood-fired vegetarian pizza. It’s one of the few Italian places where vegetarians can indulge in authentic dishes.
- May Veggie Home (Asok)
- Cuisine: Thai, Vegan
- Location: Sukhumvit Plaza
- Must Try: Thai-style spicy basil stir-fry with tofu, pad Thai (without fish sauce), and vegan green curry. They serve many traditional Thai dishes but with a plant-based twist.
- Dosa King (Sukhumvit Soi 11)
- Cuisine: Indian
- Location: Sukhumvit Road
- Must Try: A wide selection of dosas (masala, paneer, or onion), dal makhani, and parathas. It’s the go-to place for Indian comfort food.
- Chijuya Vegetarian Food (Chinatown)
- Cuisine: Thai, Vegetarian
- Location: Yaowarat Road, Chinatown
- Must Try: Stir-fried morning glory, tofu dishes, and Chinese-style vegetable buns.
Pattaya: Vegetarian Options
- Five Star J Vegetarian Restaurant
- Cuisine: Thai, Chinese, Vegetarian
- Location: Pattaya Klang Road
- Must Try: Tom Yum soup (without shrimp), mixed vegetable stir-fry, and mango sticky rice. Their menu is extensive with many mock meat dishes.
- Punjabi Tadka
- Cuisine: Indian
- Location: Pattaya Second Road
- Must Try: Paneer butter masala, aloo gobi, and naan. This is a perfect stop for Indian travelers missing a taste of home.
Chiang Mai: Vegetarian Dining
- Aum Vegetarian Restaurant
- Cuisine: Thai, Vegetarian
- Location: Moon Muang Road
- Must Try: Veggie sushi, Thai coconut curry, and pineapple fried rice. This is a charming, cozy spot with a large selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes.
- Taste from Heaven
- Cuisine: Thai, Vegan
- Location: Tha Phae Gate
- Must Try: Vegan spring rolls, tofu larb (Thai salad), and pad Thai. This spot is known for its healthy, fresh ingredients and a peaceful atmosphere.
Vegetarian-Friendly Hotels in Thailand
- Ibis Styles Bangkok Khaosan Viengtai
- Located in the heart of Khaosan, this hotel offers an international breakfast with plenty of vegetarian options.
- AriyasomVilla (Bangkok)
- This serene boutique hotel near Sukhumvit provides vegetarian and health-conscious meals at its in-house restaurant, Na Aroon.
- Centara Grand Mirage Beach Resort (Pattaya)
- A beachside resort that caters to various dietary needs, including a good selection of vegetarian dishes.
- The Racha (Phuket)
- Known for its eco-friendly practices, this luxury resort offers a wide range of plant-based options in its restaurants.
Tips for Indian Vegetarian Travelers:
- Carry Snacks: Though there are plenty of options, it’s always helpful to carry some Indian snacks (like theplas or khakra) for long trips or areas with limited vegetarian options.
- Communicate Clearly: Thai dishes often contain fish sauce or shrimp paste, even if they seem vegetarian. Be clear when ordering by using phrases like “no fish sauce” or “Jay” for vegan.
Thailand is welcoming to vegetarian travelers, especially with Bangkok being home to several Indian restaurants and international cuisines. From traditional Thai dishes to Indian comfort food, you’ll find plenty of delicious options to enjoy while traveling.
