Exploring Vegetarian Food in Vietnam – A Journey

Introduction

Traveling as a vegetarian in Vietnam can be an exciting culinary adventure. For Indian travellers, the challenge is finding places that cater to their dietary needs while exploring the local flavors. We embarked on a journey through Vietnam, visiting Danang, Sapa, Hoi An, Ninh Binh, Hanoi, and Halong Bay. Here’s our experience with vegetarian and Indian food across these regions.

Danang – A Mix of Flavors

In Danang, we stumbled upon a vegetarian-friendly restaurant that, while not purely vegetarian, offered Indian food. The flavors reminded us of home, with dishes like dal, naan, and spicy curries.

Sapa – Bollywood Spice Veg Restaurant

Sapa introduced us to Bollywood Spice Veg Restaurant. Though not entirely vegetarian, it provided a comforting array of Indian dishes. We relished the rich spices and familiar tastes in the cool mountain town.

Hoi An – Vegan Banh Mi Delight

Hoi An was a unique stop, where we tasted a vegan version of the traditional Vietnamese banh mi. The fresh vegetables, tofu, and flavorful sauces made it a memorable experience, blending local cuisine with our dietary preferences.

Ninh Binh – Indian Curry Restaurant

In Ninh Binh, we visited an Indian Curry Restaurant. It wasn’t purely vegetarian but had a good selection of vegetarian Indian food. We enjoyed classics like samosas and paneer curries, a pleasant surprise in the scenic region.

Hanoi – Pure Vegetarian Haven

Hanoi was a highlight, offering our first pure vegetarian restaurant. A Gujarati Indian restaurant served a wide variety of Indian vegetarian dishes. From thalis to snacks, it was a true taste of home in the bustling capital.

Halong Bay – Limited Veg Options

The Halong Bay cruise posed a bit of a challenge for vegetarians. The veg options were limited, so we relied on fruits, vegetables, and a few other vegetarian items. Non-veg dishes were plentiful, but we managed to find some simple yet satisfying meals.

Conclusion

Vietnam offers a mix of experiences for vegetarian and Indian travelers. While non-vegetarian options are abundant, with a bit of effort, we found satisfying vegetarian meals in most places. The key is to explore, ask, and embrace the local flavors while sticking to your dietary preferences.