Yokohama
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Vegan and Vegetarian Options
Sections
1. Vegan and Vegetarian-Friendly Restaurants in Yokohama
a. Chaya Macrobiotics
- Specialties: This restaurant focuses on macrobiotic cuisine, which emphasizes whole, plant-based foods. Their menu includes vegan-friendly rice bowls, vegetable curries, and desserts like tofu cheesecake.
- Approximate Cost: ยฅ1,500โยฅ2,500 per meal.
- Location: Located in the Yokohama Landmark Plaza, near Minato Mirai Station.
- How to Find It: Take the Minato Mirai Line to Minato Mirai Station, and the restaurant is a short walk inside the shopping complex.
- Cultural Tip: The staff is knowledgeable about veganism, so feel free to ask for recommendations.
b. AIN SOPH. Journey Yokohama
- Specialties: AIN SOPH. is a well-known vegan restaurant chain in Japan. Their Yokohama branch offers dishes like vegan burgers, creamy pasta, and decadent desserts such as their signature vegan pancakes.
- Approximate Cost: ยฅ2,000โยฅ3,500 per meal.
- Location: Near Yokohama Station, about a 5-minute walk from the West Exit.
- How to Find It: Use Google Maps or ask for directions to the AIN SOPH. Journey branch near Yokohama Station.
- Cultural Tip: This is a great spot for a leisurely meal, and the ambiance is perfect for both solo diners and groups.
c. Noge Hana
- Specialties: A cozy izakaya (Japanese pub) offering vegetarian and vegan-friendly small plates, such as grilled vegetables, tofu dishes, and salads. They also have vegan-friendly sake.
- Approximate Cost: ยฅ2,000โยฅ4,000 per person (depending on drinks).
- Location: In the Noge district, a short walk from Sakuragicho Station.
- How to Find It: Head to the Noge nightlife area and look for the small, welcoming izakaya with a vegetarian-friendly menu.
- Cultural Tip: Izakayas are great for trying a variety of small dishes. Be sure to confirm with the staff that your choices are vegan or vegetarian.
d. Loving Hut Yokohama
- Specialties: Part of the international Loving Hut chain, this restaurant serves 100% vegan dishes, including Asian-inspired rice and noodle dishes, vegan sushi, and mock meat options.
- Approximate Cost: ยฅ1,000โยฅ2,000 per meal.
- Location: Near Tsurumi Station.
- How to Find It: Take the JR Keihin-Tohoku Line to Tsurumi Station, and the restaurant is a short walk from the East Exit.
- Cultural Tip: Loving Hut is a great option for those looking for affordable, casual vegan meals.
e. Cafรฉ & Meal MUJI Yokohama
- Specialties: While not exclusively vegan or vegetarian, this cafรฉ offers a variety of plant-based dishes, such as vegetable stews, salads, and rice bowls. Look for items labeled as vegetarian or vegan.
- Approximate Cost: ยฅ1,000โยฅ1,800 per meal.
- Location: Inside the MUJI store in Yokohamaโs Queens Square shopping complex.
- How to Find It: Take the Minato Mirai Line to Minato Mirai Station, and the cafรฉ is located within the shopping center.
- Cultural Tip: MUJI cafรฉs are known for their minimalist, healthy meals. Be sure to double-check ingredients with the staff.
2. Traditional Japanese Dishes That Are Naturally Plant-Based
While many Japanese dishes include fish or meat, there are some traditional options that are naturally vegan or vegetarian, or can be easily adapted:
- Zaru Soba: Cold buckwheat noodles served with a dipping sauce. Ensure the dipping sauce (tsuyu) does not contain dashi (fish stock).
- Vegetable Tempura: Lightly battered and fried vegetables. Confirm that the batter does not include egg.
- Inari Sushi: Sushi rice stuffed into sweetened tofu pouches. These are typically vegan but double-check for any added fish-based seasonings.
- Tsukemono: Japanese pickles made from vegetables. Most are vegan, but some may use fish-based seasonings.
- Kinpira Gobo: Stir-fried burdock root and carrots, often seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil. Confirm no fish-based seasonings are used.
- Miso Soup: A staple in Japanese cuisine, but it often contains dashi. Ask if a vegan version is available.
3. Local Ingredients to Look For
- Kabocha: Japanese pumpkin, often used in soups and stews.
- Shiso: A fragrant herb similar to basil or mint, used as a garnish or in salads.
- Konnyaku: A jelly-like food made from konjac yam, often used in stews.
- Tofu and Yuba: Soy-based products that are widely available and versatile.
- Daikon: Japanese radish, often served pickled or in soups.
4. Things to Watch Out For
- Dashi: A fish-based stock used in many Japanese dishes, including soups, sauces, and even rice. Always ask if the dish contains dashi.
- Bonito Flakes (Katsuobushi): Dried fish flakes often used as a topping or seasoning.
- Egg and Dairy: These are sometimes included in dishes like tempura batter, sauces, or desserts. Confirm with the staff if the dish is vegan.
- Hidden Ingredients: Soy sauce and miso paste can sometimes contain fish-based additives. Ask for clarification if unsure.
5. Tips for Ordering Vegan or Vegetarian Food
- Learn Key Phrases:
- "Watashi wa bejitarian desu" (็งใฏใใธใฟใชใขใณใงใ) = I am vegetarian.
- "Watashi wa bฤซgan desu" (็งใฏใดใฃใผใฌใณใงใ) = I am vegan.
- "Niku to sakana wa tabemasen" (่ใจ้ญใฏ้ฃในใพใใ) = I donโt eat meat or fish.
- "Dashi wa haitteimasu ka?" (ใ ใใฏๅ ฅใฃใฆใใพใใ๏ผ) = Does this contain fish stock?
- Use a Translation App: Apps like Google Translate or specific vegan dining apps can help you communicate your dietary needs.
- Be Patient and Polite: Japanese culture values politeness, so approach inquiries with a smile and gratitude.
- Carry a Vegan Card: These are small cards (available online) that explain your dietary restrictions in Japanese. They can be very helpful in restaurants.
6. Grocery Stores and Markets
If you prefer to cook your own meals or need snacks, Yokohama has several options:
- Seijo Ishii: A high-end grocery store with imported and organic products, including vegan-friendly items.
- Aeon Supermarkets: These often have a selection of tofu, fresh produce, and plant-based snacks.
- Yokohama Chinatown: While primarily known for its Chinese cuisine, you can find vegan-friendly ingredients like tofu, vegetables, and sauces.
Yokohama is a fantastic city for exploring vegan and vegetarian dining, with a mix of traditional Japanese flavors and international influences. By following these tips and recommendations, youโll be able to enjoy a delicious and culturally enriching experience!