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Hong Kong orientates itself as a foodie mecca with restaurants of every ilk and vintage. But the two communities who’ve really dominated the territory’s dining table have been the carnivores Cantonese and beef-eating Brits, with little space left for green eaters.
The tide is turning, however, as the winds of global consciousness blow blow more ecological and healthy alternatives ashore. And of course, this being Hong Kong, vegetarian restaurants are aiming to be stylish and chic; making meat-free meals for a clientele base that is accustomed to fine dining. Vegetarian restaurants are also increasingly reflective of the city’s cosmopolitan makeup, with a plethora of Cantonese Buddhist restaurants and Western-style vegan eateries to choose from.
Grassroots Pantry
Located on Hollywood Road, a swanky stretch synonymous with antiques, this veggie restaurant takes the dining experience seriously. The interior décor is striking, mixing old and modern, the urban and rural that juxtapose to make Hong Kong such an extraordinary locale. Lamps dangle from the ceiling while plants stream down the walls. Of course, it is the food that is king: Faux popcorn chicken makes an excellent starter before tackling such mains as the signature salad or signature mixed mushroom linguine. There’s also a good selection of fresh cold pressed juices and organic wines, while desserts like the fresh raspberry donut hole are to die for. Regardless to say this is an expensive restaurant popular with the white-collar crowd. However, during happy hour on Wednesday afternoons from 3.30 to 6.30 you can find some reasonable deals.
Address: 108 Hollywood Road. Tel: +852 2873 3353
OVO Café
This café-style vegan haunt is combining modern living with food that puts your health and the environment first. With the buzz phrase “the original taste of green” the interior is festooned with plant life (also being vented at the affiliated florists). Worldbeat music hums in the background, which, combined with the airy interior make this a great place to spend an afternoon in the company of a fine book. The menu comprises Asian and Western classics. Of note, the super bowl with avocado and beetroot should clear you of any unwanted toxins. After lunch, it’s worth taking a look around the affiliated OVO studio home furnishings store
Address: 1 Wanchai Road. Tel: +852 2527 6011.
Veggie SF
Tucked away on the 10th floor of a high-rise on Stanley Street, this is where the sublime meets the surreal. Combining a classic Americana theme with meat-free dining Veggie SF is seamlessly combining America’s past with its future. Photographs of yesteryear’s icons like Marilyn Monroe and Betty Boop adorn the walls, as well as Californian road signs and other such kitschy memorabilia. Old time jazz standards and classic pop hits conjure more of the American century. Indeed, this is a real American diner except, that all the burgers are made from tofu! That’s right you can feast on American staples like an all day breakfast, sizeable sandwiches such as Kobe’s Favourite or Fisherman’s Wharf, and Asian imports like Sushi 101 or a Peking Wrap, safe in the knowledge that no animal was harmed in the preparation of your meal. There’s an impressive juice selection too, notably the True Blood, a sumptuous blend of carrots, beetroot and apple. There are also t-shirts on sale advocating vegetarian living.
Address: 10F, 11 Stanley Street. Tel: +852 3902 3902
Joyous Vegetarian Restaurant
Not far from Kowloon Park, this Buddhist joint is a strong favorite for herbivores shopping in the Tsim Sha Tsui area, particularly at lunchtime when 48HKD can get you three dishes (from a choice of six) as well as rice and tea. Food is highly localized so expected plenty of Cantonese green vegetables, taro, tofu as well as some remarkably good fried potatoes. The only downside is the popularity of the place, which might mean a wait for a table at peak hours.
Address: 7th Floor, Zhongda Building, Haiphong Road, Kowloon. Tel: +852 22540128