Our Tokyo Vegan Guide, Kyoto Vegan Guide, Nara Vegan Guide, and Okinawa Vegan Guide covered the vegan food scenes in these areas of Japan, and now we're back to bring you the best vegan-friendly and vegan restaurants in Osaka and Kobe!
Osaka vegan guide: Best vegan-friendly restaurants in Osaka
There is a wealth of vegan restaurants in Osaka where plant-based travelers can enjoy the hearty and extravagant food culture this neon-lit city is known for.
Here are some vegan restaurants in Osaka for tasty plant-based food:
- Green Earth
- Fahua
- Paprika Shokudo Vegan
- Ganesh N
- Brown Rice Sushi TEC 玄米のおすしテック
- ROCCA
- OKO Takoyaki
- BELLA PORTO
- Sukhasana Pozzuoli
- Saijiki
- LUU’s BAO
- Gyozaoh!
- Mercy Vegan Factory
Tips on dining out as a vegan in Osaka
In contrast to nearby Kyoto’s elegant shojin ryori, Osaka food is best summed up by the word kuidaore, roughly meaning to bring ruin upon yourself by eating extravagantly!
But to do that, you might want to brush up on a few vegetarian and vegan phrases for dining out in Japan. When you feel ready, explore this list of the best vegan restaurants and cafes in Osaka.
1. Green Earth
One of the oldest vegan restaurants in Osaka, Green Earth’s menu is full of reasonably-priced and delicious plant-based dishes. The restaurant itself is roomy, with quick service and super friendly staff, which makes dining here whilst traveling in Osaka a real joy.
As well as a rotating lunch set of the day, there’s a choice of sandwiches, wraps and burgers, several different types of curry and pasta dishes, plus pizza fresh from the oven. Make sure you leave some room for dessert because there’s pumpkin cake, rich and creamy cheesecake, and the best-ever vegan apple pie on offer.
2. Fahua
Tucked away in bustling Dotonbori lies this new Taiwanese eatery. Another fully vegan restaurant in Osaka, Fahua serves a mixture of dinner sets and a la carte options. The different style of cuisine makes a nice change from Japanese and Western dishes, whilst the outdoor terrace is perfect for soaking up the vibrant atmosphere during your Osaka visit.
I recommend going for one of the dinner sets, as they come with a wide variety of stunningly presented side dishes, plus dessert and a drink. The dishes could be anything from a hamburger patty, braised soy “pork” over rice and mushrooms to steamed buns, deep-fried tofu and grilled noodles.
You’ll never go hungry eating in Osaka!
3. Paprika Shokudo Vegan
Paprika Shokudo Vegan is popular, stylish and conveniently located in Shinsaibashi. As the name suggests, the menu is completely vegan, with both Japanese and Western-style dishes on offer.
If you’re hungry, go for one of the lunch or dinner sets — which come with salad, soup and a side dish alongside your main — or for something lighter, try one of the many rice bowls.
One of my favorite main dishes is the soy karaage (fried chicken), which is perfectly crispy on the outside and deliciously succulent on the inside and comes drizzled in creamy vegan mayo. An unmissable spot on your trip to Osaka!
4. Ganesh N
Ganesh N stands out from the typical curry restaurant by offering a limited but carefully curated menu with vegan options. Each day, they feature only two types of curries, with the selection changing daily. One option tends to be milder in spice, catering to those with a more sensitive palate, while the other is designed for brave diners looking to test their spice tolerance.
While single curry dishes are available, the most popular choice among diners is the 2-curry set. Despite its humble setting on a quiet street and limited seating capacity, Ganesh N consistently attracts a crowd of eager patrons. In fact, it's not uncommon to see a line forming outside the restaurant even before it opens for the day.
Reserve your seat for vegan curry at Ganesh N.
Vegan sushi and set meals in Osaka
Missing out on some of the most traditional Japanese meals just won’t do. Discover these vegan alternatives for Japanese sushi and set meals in Osaka.
5. Brown Rice Sushi TEC 玄米のおすしテック
Genmaisushi, which you can also find as Brown Rice Sushi TEC online, offers a rare delicacy for vegans traveling in Osaka: vegan sushi! This takeaway and delivery restaurant is fully vegan, boasting an extensive selection of sushi rolls, bento boxes, gluten-free salad bowls, soups, smoothies and even relatively healthy vegan sweets — save room for cookies, chocolate cake, matcha pudding and more.
If you’ve had a long day exploring Osaka, or you’re coming directly from the Universal Studios theme park, and all you can think about is getting back to your accommodation, perhaps a vegan sushi takeaway is on the menu.
Treat yourself to a vegan sushi takeaway in Osaka.
6. ROCCA
ROCCA takes the traditional art of Japanese teishoku set meals and makes them vegan for modern-day diners and tourists. Enter this intimate Osaka restaurant and take a seat at the beautifully carved wooden counter for a set meal that’s every bit as easy on the eye as it is delicious, filled with different flavors and textures to take your taste buds on a journey.
Warming miso soup, crunchy pickled vegetables, fluffy rice, and a vegan Japan curry with an unexpectedly nostalgic flavor — this is just one example of the kind of vegan lunch or dinner options waiting on the menu for you.
Head to Rocca for a cozy vegan meal.
Vegan takoyaki in Osaka
There are two words you may never have expected to see together: vegan takoyaki. That’s right — try some of Osaka’s most famous street foods, made vegan!
7. OKO Takoyaki
In the world of Osaka street food, takoyaki and kushikatsu deep-fried skewers are culinary giants, and now it’s your turn to experience their vegan versions at OKO Takoyaki. There are only a few seats at the counter, so you may have to wait for a while for dinner, but it’s sure to be worth it.
Alongside vegan takoyaki and kushikatsu, paired with different sauces, you can enjoy edamame, tofu and pickles as side dishes. Only a few moments from Shinsaibashi Station, this is the perfect pitstop for vegan street food before hopping back on the Metro to explore more of the city.
Taste vegan takoyaki at OKO Takoyaki.
Vegan Italian food in Osaka
You’d be surprised at the high quality of Italian food in Japan, but is that any good to you if you don’t eat dairy? Get to know the future of Italian cuisine at these vegan-friendly Italian restaurants.
8. BELLA PORTO
BELLA PORTO may not be a strictly vegan Italian restaurant, but it is known to be a center of organic excellence in Osaka, working with partner growers and produce from their own farm to fill its menu with pesticide-free vegetables.
Prepare to be completely surrounded by a bounty of organic produce with their superfood-filled, 40-item Bizen plate, recommended for pairing with one of their sommelier-picked wines. Or, for a truly unforgettable experience, treat yourself to their Premium Vegan Course menu for a peek into the world of perfect farm-to-table Italian cuisine.
In this surprisingly affordable vegan omakase menu, you’ll have the chance to indulge in an amuse-bouche, organic salad, seasonal cold dish, an especially eye-catching potage and smoked foam dish, the vegetable risotto of the day, granita (Italian sorbet used as a palate cleanser between courses, the main vegan dish of the day, and finally, the dessert of the day, complemented by soy milk gelato.
Reserve your spot for a vegan course menu at BELLA PORTO.
9. Sukhasana Pozzuoli
Sukhasana Puzzuoli offers another option for vegan Italian food in Osaka, dishing up vegan pasta, pizza, salads and appetizers. With every dish being born from the concept of “Delicious choices that are comfortable for the body and the environment," you know you’re sure to be
Previous diners especially rave about the restaurant’s healthy, fresh appetizers, creamy mushroom pasta, gooey pizzas made using vegan tofu cheese, and vegan-friendly tiramisu. All your favorite Italian classics are here, reimagined for vegan and vegetarian diners.
They also have a vegetarian Italian nigiri sushi course menu, using Italian ingredients and herbs to create an omakase course of vegetarian-friendly sushi.
Parties of three or more people: If you’re traveling as a group of 3-plus people, you’ll need to reserve this restaurant at least one day in advance.
Start heading in the direction of Sukhasana Pozzuoli.
Vegan Taiwanese food in Osaka
You may not have expected to find tantalizing Taiwanese food in Osaka — much less vegan Taiwanese food — but when they say Osaka is the food capital of Japan, they really aren’t kidding.
10. Saijiki
Saijiki should be your first stop in Osaka if you’re searching for vegan Taiwanese food. This may be one of the most diverse vegan menus in Osaka, offering vegan-friendly stir fries, vegan fried chicken, vegan dumplings, spring rolls and even “pseudo fish” dishes and wanton.
Long story short, any Taiwanese craving you’ve had on your Japan trip can be satisfied. And good news — based in Tennoji, this restaurant is truly located in the heart of Osaka, so you were likely heading this way at some point in your journey through the city.
Taste vegan Taiwanese food in Osaka right here.
11. LUU’s BAO
Craving the squishy, unique mouthfeel of an authentic bao bun? You’re in luck because LUU’s BAO is a self-proclaimed vegan bao restaurant that’s only a 15-minute walk from the skyline-piercing observation deck of Tsutentaku and the exotic animals of Tennoji Zoo, two must-see attractions while you’re in Osaka.
Swapping out the usual meaty fillings with crispy deep-fried tofu, vegetable kakiage tempura, maitake and shiitake mushroom, the soft bao buns are generously filled with vegan wonders. Smothered your bun in vegan mayo and add a side of vegan-friendly fries while you’re at it.
Even with all these options, remember to save room for dessert… There are a variety of vegan donuts waiting for you, each fried on the spot to a delightful crunch without ever being too greasy.
12. Gyozaoh!
At the time of writing, Gyozaoh!’s Dotonbori branch is ranked #1 of 233 restaurants in the central Dotonbori area, giving you an idea of just how popular its vegan eats really are!
As a restaurant with an especially vegetarian and vegan-friendly menu, you’ll be absolutely spoiled for choice. Get into some of Japan’s tastiest traditional foods with options like vegan gyoza, ramen and karaage fried chicken.
There’s also an extensive sake list and a sake tasting board where you can try three different sake based on your preferences; the staff speak great English and are more than happy to explain the different flavor profiles of the sake, helping you choose options you’ll love.
Follow these directions to Dotonbori’s most popular vegan restaurant.
Vegan bakeries in Osaka
Searching for a sweet treat? Head here for vegan desserts, pastries and baked goods.
13. Mercy Vegan Factory
With a name like Mercy Vegan Factory, it’s no surprise that this JAS vegan-certified bakery and cafe has an impressive range of vegan options, from Korean kimbap and deep-fried chicken to vegan tarts, cakes and salted butter.
They also offer a vegan bread assortment of 14 different delights, including vegan sandwiches, melon pan, pastries, and bread. If you’re traveling with a few friends and want a vegan breakfast feast to go with your morning coffee, this might be just what you’re looking for!
Follow these directions to this vegan bakery in Osaka.
Kobe vegan guide: Best vegan-friendly restaurants in Kobe
When it comes to Kobe cuisine, most people think of Kobe beef – but luckily for plant-based travelers, there are vegan restaurants in Kobe, too. This cosmopolitan city has eateries serving a mixture of traditional Japanese-style dishes and modern meals, all without animal products, which are perfect if you’re plant-based in Kobe.
Here are some delicious vegan restaurants to check out in Kobe!
- Yidaki Cafe
- Thallo
- Modernark Pharm Cafe
- Osteria Gaudente Kobe Harborland
- Raja
Tips on dining out as a vegan in Kobe
Firstly, a word to the wise: as of December 2019, there is only one fully vegan restaurant in Kobe. Happily, this isn’t a problem and you’ll find plenty of places you can dine at during your Kobe visit. And thanks to the city’s international nature, there’s a wide range of plant-based food from across the world to enjoy when eating in Kobe.
1. Yidaki Cafe
Easily recognizable by its bright blue exterior, Yidaki Cafe is a light and spacious vegetarian restaurant that’s great if you’re vegan in Kobe. The menu consists of an ever-changing selection of set meals, most of which are suitable for vegans (check with your server if you’re unsure). Served with a gorgeous array of side dishes, you can expect options such as curry, fried tofu, plant-based cutlets, and veggie burgers. You can get a great deal by choosing a set that comes with both a drink and dessert, with delicious offerings such as cheesecake, walnut tart, banana cake, and French toast.
2. Thallo
This homely and welcoming cafe is currently the only 100% vegan restaurant in Kobe. In addition to not using animal products or white sugar, the menu is also entirely gluten-free.
Thallo offers a range of lunch and dinner sets, with one of the highlights being impressively realistic, fluffy and creamy quiches flavored with rich tomato, leafy spinach or spicy curry. In traditional Japanese style, each set comes with a selection of side dishes such as soup and salad.
There’s also a good range of drinks, including a unique hojicha (roasted green tea) latte. For dessert, check out the range of cute cakes at the counter and see what takes your fancy during your trip to Kobe.
3. Modernark Pharm Cafe
Modernark is my favorite place to eat when I’m traveling in Kobe. It’s spacious but still cozy, with friendly staff and an extensive menu that has the multitude of vegan options clearly marked. These include chunky burritos, soul-warming chickpea curry, towering burgers, fresh salad, and a veggie platter.
The latter is served with a whole host of tasty side dishes, such as soy patties and miso-drizzled potato wedges, plus the usual soup, seasonal salad, and brown rice.
Dessert brings you a choice of classic cakes – like the rich and moist chocolate cake — and season special ones, such as coconut and carrot cake and strawberry cake. Definitely not to be missed if you’re vegan in Kobe!
4. Osteria Gaudente Kobe Harborland
Based on the 3rd floor of Mosaic Kobe Harborland, Kobe’s seaside shopping mall, Osteria Gaudente promises authentic Italian cuisine with a view. Looking out over this scenic area with great views of the Mosaic Big Ferris Wheel, you can soak up the sights for a moment before turning your attention to the menu.
Filled with traditional Italian fares, there’s something for everyone, including vegans! There is a wide range of salads, pizzas and pasta dishes, and as an international restaurant, the chefs are likely also more knowledgeable on dietary restrictions and able to make adjustments to certain dishes to remove meat or dairy.
5. Raja
Only a few moments away from vibrant Kobe Chinatown and a 15-minute walk from the sights of Kobe Port Tower and Kobe Maritime Museum, Raja boasts an extensive menu with countless vegan-friendly dishes.
Start with something tasty like vegetable samosa or vegetable pakora before moving on to something more filling, like a vegetable biryani, peace pulao or dal curry. If you’re vegetarian or halal, you’ll find even more options available across the menu — no one is going home hungry.
Find your way to vegan Indian food in Kobe at Raja.
Looking for plant-based and vegan food experiences in Japan? Check out vegan food tours, cooking classes, and dining experiences!
Vegan food in Osaka FAQS
Is it difficult to find vegan restaurants in Osaka?
Osaka may be known for its seafood and meat dishes, but the city has a growing number of vegan-friendly restaurants and cafes to satisfy your plant-based cravings.
What are some popular vegan dishes to try in Osaka?
From crispy tempura vegetables to savory tofu dishes, Osaka offers a wide array of vegan delicacies that will tantalize your taste buds. Don't miss out on trying the delectable vegan ramen or the mouth-watering vegan okonomiyaki.
Are there any vegan bakeries in Osaka?
Yes, there are several vegan bakeries in Osaka that serve up delicious cakes, pastries and bread made without any animal products. Treat yourself to some guilt-free sweets while exploring the city.
Are there any vegan street food options in Osaka?
Absolutely! Osaka is famous for its vibrant street food scene, and you can find vegan-friendly options like grilled corn, sweet potato fries, and vegetable skewers at popular street food stalls and markets throughout the city.
Not only that, but more vegan street options are popping up every day, including vegan takoyaki and kushikatsu skewers.
Are there vegan cooking classes available in Osaka?
There certainly are. Explore our guide to the best cooking classes in Osaka, and you’ll be making vegan Japanese food in no time.
