The 15 Best Vegetarian Restaurants In Sydney

The growth of veganism and vegetarianism over the last few decades has led to a welcome explosion in dining options.

The number of plant-based restaurants continues to rise in Sydney. And pleasingly, whilst we hate to generalise, there has been a discernible increase in both quality and popularity of these establishments.

From European bistros and pizzerias, to Vietnamese street-food and Middle-Eastern delights, Sydney is home to some of the finest vegetarian restaurants in the southern hemisphere.

What’s more, even if you’re not a vegetarian, many of these eateries offer dishes of such quality and invention, and food that is so tasty, unique and refreshingly healthy, that they deserve an appreciably wider audience.

15 Of The Best Vegetarian Restaurants In Sydney

The top restaurants know from first-hand experience that a healthy vegan lifestyle has many benefits. Beyond helping people feel fantastic and more energetic; veganism is an ecologically sustainable way of life that is cruelty free and respects the rights of all creatures on the planet to live in peace and harmony.

Eating vegan food can help you feel good on many levels.

With this in mind, our article will take a look at 15 of the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Sydney. So, whether you fancy a light lunch on the harbour, a quick snack in the bustling inner-west or a celebratory dinner at a critically acclaimed restaurant, we’ve got you covered. 

Yulli’s 

Location: 417 Crown Street, Surry Hills, NSW 2010  Ph: (02) 9319 6609

The first restaurant on our list of the best vegetarian restaurants in Sydney is this fantastic offering in the heart of vibrant Surry Hills.

Yulli’s is one of Sydney’s most popular vegetarian restaurants. The team here offers a wide selection of delicious dishes such as fried zucchini in filo pastry with tomato salsa and tom tom sauce.

The restaurant is located in a bustling neighbourhood with street appeal, character and 24 hour activity. It is the perfect spot to try a taste-packed, affordable vegetarian meal on any night of the week. 

What’s more, there are inspired dishes for vegans and those who follow a gluten-free diet.

Why not whip up a quick pot of Pumpkin Gnocchi Sauce for dinner this week?

Vina Vegan Restaurant

Location: 395 King St, Newtown, NSW 2042 Ph: 0432 587 769

Like the two excellent Fina’s vegan restaurants in Melbourne, Vina Vegan in Newtown caters for those plant-based diners who love Vietnamese food.

Family-owned and operated since 2009, Vina Vegan was brought to life to share traditional Vietnamese vegan recipes with people who simply wanted to eat better. Vina Vegan strives to serve dishes of the freshest local produce that are entirely plant-based and have their origins in traditional family recipes.

Newtown is one of the most vibrant of Sydney’s inner-west food hubs. In this foodie mecca, Vina Vegan provides an authentic Vietnamese experience of chattering noise, fragrant smells, laughter, bustling foot traffic and lots of activity.

Vina’s pho noodle soup is a must-try. Warm up in winter with the signature classic broth and your choice of vegan beef or chicken.

A personal favourite is the Peking Not-Duck rolls. These ingenious delights combine pickled carrot radish, cucumber and crispy vegan duck with a light drizzle of hoisin sauce. Yum!

Vina’s vegan spring rolls are very popular (and a little addictive) – an enticing combination of mungbean, carrot, tofu, mushroom, taro and vermicelli.

The curry noodle soup is flavoursome and filling. Containing a winning combination of broccoli, carrot, celery, potato, vegan ham, soy chicken and vegan pork in a smooth curry and coconut cream broth. Moreover, the restaurant guarantees no added MSG in their dishes.

A light and zesty choice is the delightful Papaya Salad. This mix of carrot, papaya, mint, roasted peanut, tamarin juice and vegan beef is fragrant, fresh and tasty.

Fresh Vegetarian Spring roll - best vegetarian restaurants in Sydney

Alibi Bar & Dining

Location: 6 Cowper Wharf Roadway, Woolloomooloo, NSW 2011

The next restaurant on our list is the Alibi Bar & Kitchen. This has a rich reputation for producing some of the healthiest and best-tasting vegetarian food in Sydney.

The plant-based and vegan friendly menu is built on a philosophy of clean eating without compromising taste. Some of the best flavours include broccoli steak with walnut cream and kimchi dumplings with red cabbage puree.

What’s more, if you have a sweet tooth, you can’t go wrong with their delicious pumpkin chocolate pie served with coconut and cardamom cream. It’s a taste sensation.

Finally, this place is so devoted to its vegan soul that it even offers a High Tea – totally plant-based, of course.

If you’re looking for the Best Dumplings in Sydney, we’ve got you covered. 

Badde Manors

Location: 37 Glebe Point Road, Glebe, NSW 2037  Ph : (02) 9660 3797

Located close to Thievery on Glebe Point Road, Badde Manors is another excellent restaurant which offers a wide array of fantastic vegetarian food.

On the menu you’ll find carefully crafted dishes inspired by flavours from all over the world, including the Middle East, Asia, The Mediterranean, and Latin America.

Whether you’re looking for something simple like a vegetarian quiche, or something a little more unusual such as a halloumi wrap, you’ll be spoiled for choice at this restaurant.  

Love cheese, but want a dairy-free option? See our piece on Vegan Cheese

Editor’s Note: Last year we were sad to hear that after 40 years, Badde Manors would be closing. However, a saviour has stepped in and the Glebe veggie institution is back, serving delicious plant-based fare!

I Should Be Souvlaki

Location: 399 King St, Newtown, NSW 2042 Ph: (02) 9517 9714

Now it’s probably no surprise that many of our best vegetarian restaurants in Sydney feature Asian cuisines. After all, the Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese and more have strong traditions in plant-based dishes. But Greek vegan food? And what’s more, hearty vegan souvlaki? That’s a little more unusual.

However, that’s exactly what I Should Be Souvlaki is all about.

What began is a regular vegan market stall now has a forever home in Newtown and the locals love it.

Yes, there are clearly veggie plates such as their moreish Popcorn Cauliflower. But then there’s also their amazing Southern Fried Chick’n Tenders. What’s more, there’s a full menu of Souvlaki Platters and Snack Packs. These are genuinely ‘meaty’ offerings – and as close to the real thing as you’ll find this side of Athens.

If all of this talk of Souvas makes you feel uncomfortable, don’t fret. All of the ‘meat’ is either wheat or soy-based – or a combination of the 2.

And our favourite? We love the Build A Souvlaki option where you get to exactly what you want to eat and how you’d like it served. Honestly, vegan food doesn’t get much better – or tastier – than this!

The more of the Best Greek Restaurants in Sydney – see here.

Bodhi Restaurant 

Location: 2/4 College Street, Sydney, NSW 2000 Ph: (02) 9360 2523

Now, we really couldn’t write about the best vegetarian restaurants in Sydney and not mention Bodhi.

Bodhi is a plant-based institution and an award winning one at that. Located in the Cook & Phillip Park, this critically acclaimed restaurant is one of the most iconic vegetarian dining spots in Sydney.

Bodhi offers a plant-based menu with a special focus on pan-Asian cuisine, so expect plenty of incredible steamed dumplings and buns.

In addition, the chefs are able to adapt to all dietary requirements. This means that everyone is able to enjoy the fantastic food they whip up.

Whip up amazing, tasty plant-based feasts at home with this fabulous cookbook – Fresh India: 130 Quick, Easy & Delicious Vegetarian Recipes for Everyday– by renowned chef Meera Sodha

Editor’s Note: We’ve recently learnt that Bodhi Restaurant has closed at this location. However, the team promise that Bodhi isn’t gone for good. We will let you know when we hear more.

Two Chaps 

Location: 122 Chapel Street, Marrickville, NSW 2204  Ph: (02) 9572 8858

A little different from many of the other restaurants on this list, Two Chaps is a “from scratch” cafe.

What’s that? You ask. Well, the talented kitchen team make all of their top-of-the-range pastry and bread by hand.

During lunchtime hours, they offer some incredible vegetarian dishes such as Panko crumbed mushroom burgers and their specialty sourdough crumpets with parmesan custard and plum relish.

In addition to their daytime food, Two Chaps also serve dinner two nights a week, providing plenty of delicious pasta dishes, salads, and more. 

We think you’ll agree, it’s one of the finest vegetarian restaurants in Sydney.

The Harbour City has some amazing places to eat. Here are our Best Asian Restaurants in Sydney.

Shift Eatery 

Location: 4/241 Commonwealth Street, Surrey Hills, NSW 2010

This vegan deli is the first of its kind in Sydney, and is renowned for serving up some of the best vegetarian and vegan food in the area.

The Shift Eatery is home to the “World’s Best Vegan Bacon & Egg Bagel”, and also serves a range of other exciting options including toasties, salads, and smoothies. The portions are big, the prices affordable, the service is super-friendly and there’s always a fantastic buzz to the place.

You can also pick up a range vegan-friendly products and ingredients to take home from the self-service fridges. And the coffee is first-class too.

Shift Eatery just happens to be one of our favourite cafes in the whole of Sydney.

Yellow

Location: 57 MacLeay Street, Potts Point, NSW 2011  Ph: (02) 9332 2344

This popular bistro is a must-visit if you’re in Sydney. It’s housed in a yellow building in Potts Point, and offers a plant-focused menu celebrating some of the best local and seasonal produce.

Each dish packs plenty of flavour and texture. Whether you opt for their watermelon radish with hazelnut and lemon, or their capers, beans and toasted pumpkin ravioli, you’ll be left thoroughly impressed. 

But then this chic vegan eatery is part of the innovative Bentley Restaurant Group, so the quality of the dishes is hardly a surprise. From their original Bentley Restaurant + Bar to Cirrus at Barangaroo, these folks know how to elevate flavours and textures.

Click here for our guide to the Best Ramen Restaurants in Sydney

The Gantry Restaurant 

Location: 11 Hickson Road, Dawes Point, NSW 2000  Ph: (02) 8298 9910

Situated just footsteps from Sydney Harbour and a jaw-dropping view of the iconic Opera House, this restaurant provides a fantastic vegetarian menu that compliments the incredible setting.

Whether you decide to visit for lunch or dinner, you’ll be treated to a set menu with plenty of choices. Highlights include BBQ king brown mushroom, roast baby beetroot with wasabi, and much more. 

Mother Chu’s Vegetarian Kitchen 

Location: 367 Pitt Street, Sydney, NSW 2000  Ph: 0422 888 331

Mother Chu’s Vegetarian Kitchen is ideal if you’re looking for a vegetarian restaurant that provides a mixture of traditional and original dishes. All of their meals are made with the best and freshest produce to ensure excellent flavour and quality.

What’s more, Mother Chu’s is renowned for its excellent service and unique atmosphere. We’re confident you’ll have a great time if you decide to give it a go. 

This place is one of the best vegetarian restaurants in Sydney with a loyal customer base. Eat here, and you’ll soon understand why.

If you’re on the hunt for the Best Chinese Restaurants in Sydney, see our recommendations

Golden Lotus Vegan

Location: 341 King Street, Newtown, NSW 2042  Ph: 0459 576 888

For those who love authentic Vietnamese cuisine, this next restaurant should be right at the top of your list. The Golden Lotus blends healthy vegetarian foods and fresh ingredients together to create tasty, nutritious meals.

If you want to up your own Asian food game, this Carbon Steel Wok is a great piece of cooking equipment

Whether you’re after a light noodle soup or some spicy Vietnamese street food, this friendly restaurant will meet your needs. 

These are our go to Vietnamese Restaurants in Sydney

Bad Hombres

Location: 40 Reservoir Street, Surrey Hills, NSW 2010  Ph: 0405 275 515

Continuing on, this next restaurant is entirely vegan. Better till, it’s one of the most popular spots for great-tasting vegetarian and vegan food when dining out in Sydney. Inspired by Mexican cuisine, Bad Hombres provides a variety of superb dishes for you to try.

Some of the most interesting dishes include stir-fry oyster mushrooms with jalapenos and charred corn with chipotle mayo. 

Read this post for the low down on the Best Mexican Restaurants in Sydney

Pizza Madre 

Location: 2/205 Victoria Road, Marrickville, NSW 2204  Ph: 0417 849 410

If you’re looking for some comfort food after a long day visiting some of Sydney’s impressive sights, then the Neapolitan-style sourdough pizzas at Pizza Madre are sure to do the job.

Situated right in the heart of the inner west, this restaurant is meat-free. Moreover, it’s run by the same people as Two Chaps (see no. 6).

The delicious starters include burrata and wood-fired sourdough, while the pizzas are topped with flavour-packed ingredients such as smoked mozzarella, fermented chilli cream, and fried chickpeas.

Do you follow a Paleo diet? We have some Paleo Vegan Pizza Recipes for you to try

15 Of The Best Vegetarian Restaurants In Sydney

Bentley Restaurant & Bar 

Location: 27 O’Connell Street, Sydney, NSW 2000  Ph: (02) 8214 0505

The penultimate restaurant on our list is Bentley Restaurant & Bar, located right in the centre of the CBD. This restaurant provides an innovative tasting menu that’s both fully vegan and that pairs perfectly with the extensive wine list.

As you might expect with plant-based dishes, the menu evolves with the seasons and reflects whatever produce is at it peak at any one time.

At present, delights on offer include Kohlrabi + Cured Apple + Fennel + Kafir Lime and a dessert of Lemon Aspen Sorbet + Rosemary Curd + Puffed Rice. My mouth is watering just as the thought!

We’ve put together a list of the Best Bars in Sydney.

Golden Gully 

Location: 153 Norton Street, Leichhardt, NSW 2040  Ph: 0423 666 746

Our final offering, and by certainly no means the least, is the Golden Gully. Not only does this bar and restaurant provide excellent food, it’s also got a reputation for some of the best Australian wine, beer, and spirits.

The menu is seasonal, so there’s always new vegetarian dishes to try – all of which are made with local Aussie ingredients. There’s also a bar menu which includes tasty treats such as cider-glazed Brussels sprouts and jalapeno poppers. 

If you love the hot, sweet, sour magic of Thai food, give these Thai Restaurants a visit

Editor’s Note: Unfortunately, we believe that Golden Gully has served its customer. As this is the case, why not try this dining spot instead…?

Don’t Tell Aunty

Location: 414 Bourke St, Surry Hills, NSW 2010 Ph: (02) 9331 5399

Now this dynamic Indian restaurant isn’t entirely plant-based, but the team offers a Vegan Pots section on their menu. And no wonder. Indian culture is rich in vegetarian dishes, so why not take delicious plates like Malai Kofta and Channa Masala and put them front and centre?

Don’t Tell Aunty is part of the vibrant Jessie Singh culinary empire. He and his wife run a number of lively eateries, including Pinky Ji in Sydney and Daughter In Law which has outposts in both Melbourne and in Adelaide. Apart from plenty of energy, bright decor and delicious food, all of the stable of venues specialise in what they call ‘unauthentic Indian food’.

Well, authentic or not, we can vouch for it being both yummy and plentiful. If you like a hit of spice, this is one of the best vegetarian restaurants in Sydney.

For a full and detailed review of Daughter in Law Melbourne, click here.

Cafe Nowa (BONUS)

Location: 109 Crystal Street, Petersham, NSW 2049 Ph: (02) 7900 9743

Located in the inner-west suburb of Petersham, Café Nowa is the brainchild of Nepalese owner chef, Kabir.

This is a friendly, homely and completely vegan eatery. It has a loyal following, with many locals becoming regular and frequent diners.

For those who are already vegan, Café Nowa is a place to find great tasting healthy food. For those who may be curious about going vegan, Café Nowa hopes to encourage and inspire the curious, by illustrating just how good a vegan diet can taste.

Kabir puts his excellent culinary skills towards making vegan dishes as delicious as they are healthy. Café Nowa prides itself on sourcing only the best ingredients that are potent in nutrition.

The menu is carefully prepared with culinary respect to health, animal welfare and culture, and there’s a distinctly Indian/ Nepalese feel to many of the dishes. The curries – Rajma & Alu, Chicky Curry, Chilli Chicky – are absolutely delicious.

Café Nowa utilises an abundance of fresh fruit and vegetables along with an extensive array of Nepalese spices, and all sauces are made fresh in house.

A particular favourite is the Fattoush with Falafel salad. This feast of a dish features roasted capsicum, cos-lettuce, chickpea, cucumber falafel, shaved fennel, heirloom tomato, radish, crispy bread and pomegranate dressing. Wonderful.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What’s The Best Area For Vegetarian Food In Sydney? 

As our list has shown, you can find excellent vegetarian restaurants all across Sydney.

However, if you’re looking to stay in one area, the inner west may be your best option as some of the suburbs like Newtown and Glebe are packed full of top quality restaurants. 

Is Sydney Good For Vegans? 

There are plenty of options if you’re a vegan. From plant-based burger shops and pizzerias to fine dining restaurants and gelato shops, you’ll have a high number of spots to choose from. 

Dylan Cole
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