What is Chennai known for? 

Chennai, located on the Bay of Bengal in Eastern India, is the capital of Tamil Nadu. Chennai is famous for its beautiful beaches, colourful sunsets, ancient temples, and tasty street-food. Who wouldn't want to experience all of that in one place?

When is the best time to visit Chennai?

If you're planning to visit Chennai, the best time (or peak season) is from October through February—when it's not too hot or humid outside.

How can you eat vegan in Chennai?

Chennai is quickly becoming known as a hotspot for the BEST vegan foods, with many local restaurants and cafes offering satisfying vegan options. 

To find places to eat in Chennai, it’s easy to scout out vegan friendly street-foods like idli sambar, dosas, uttapa, paniyaram, vadas, and pakodas.

To find local vegan restaurants near you, we highly recommend you check out Happy Cow. It’s the greatest restaurant finder in the world! There you’ll find top restaurants, the best options near you, and thorough restaurant reviews with pictures. 

Here's our list of the TOP 10 vegan and vegan-friendly restaurants in Chennai!

VEGAN RESTAURANTS IN CHENNAI

1. The Viridian Plate

The Viridian Plate offers a menu of vegan dishes that are sure to please, no matter what cuisine you prefer. From tofu corn tikka (Indian) and pasta salad (Italian), there's something for everyone on this menu!

On top of that, they offer board games and books to enjoy while you dine.

2. Cafe 28

Cafe 28 is India's first vegan food court, and it’s totally a winner! So next time you're in town, you can't miss it! Get smoothies, gourmet burgers, shawarmas, hot dogs, gelato, tacos, and MORE! 

We highly recommend you visit. The atmosphere is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner with friends. Don't forget some take-out for the beach!

9 VEGAN-FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS IN CHENNAI

3. Pumpkin Tales

Pumpkin Tales is located in the heart of Chennai. If you're looking for something healthy, sustainable, wholesome, and indulgent all at the same time, this is the spot you'll want to stop at!

Get tasty entrees, creative appetisers, and flavourful desserts all in one place. 

4. Lyfe by Soul Garden Bistro

Lyfe by Soul Garden Bistro is a spot that is great for hanging out and hosting family gatherings. You can get a variety of vegan dishes, including zucchini chips, BBQ tofu, and pasta arrabiata. 

5. Flower Drum

For eastern Asian cuisine, The Flower Drum is a crowd pleaser. Most of their vegetarian options are easy to make vegan; it's the perfect casual dining spot or takeout for all those comfort food cravings! Try their lip-smacking Thai Veg Bali Curry with noodles! 

6. The Brew Room

The Brew Room boasts a relaxing atmosphere, serving up specialty coffee and offering vegan options on its continental menu. You can find a cosy nook indoors, or enjoy the serenity of the gazebo outdoors.

Don't miss their homemade vegan ice cream!

8. Mezze

Mezze is a fantastic Middle Eastern restaurant that would be a good pick for anyone. You'll have to order their must-try vegan options like their Dukkah Mushroom, and Falafel Sandwich—but you can easily customise other dishes to make them fully plant-based. 

Who wouldn't want to enjoy eating hummus in a cute little restaurant at a beach town?

9. Amethyst

This modern continental cafe offers a unique dining experience for vegans and vegetarians in Chennai. Enjoy the art, gardens, and lush greenery when you feast on their tofu scramble and vegan pesto pasta among other delicious options.

10. The Asian Station

The Asian Station is a pan-Asian restaurant known for its creative dishes, delicious drinks and vegan options like udon noodles, tofu nigiri and Thai fried rice with chilli.

If you liked this blog or found it helpful, check out some of our other blog posts on how to eat vegan in India: 

Where are your favourite vegan spots in Chennai?