Top 7 Vegan-Friendly Restaurants You Must Explore In Rishikesh

Has finding good vegan restaurants in Rishikesh become a task? We have curated a list of the seven best vegan-friendly restaurants worth the money. Continue reading the blog to find the best-fit option. Each of them offers distinguished options to help you make a viable choice. Explore these places for ever-lasting memories with you and your loved ones.

 

Rishikesh has become a sought-after choice for almost every individual. People visit here for spiritual enlightenment and have adventurous experiences. After doing all this, they just want something healthy, appetizing, and satisfying, like vegan food.

According to a recent study, more than 88 million people have switched to veganism in 2023.

In recent years, a significant shift has been observed in people’s dietary preferences as many have started embracing a plant-based diet. The transformation is not just limited to changing their diet but also reflects awareness about the environmental impact. Thus, this change has become a global trend toward more compassionate lifestyle practices. Moreover, emphasis on animal welfare has led to a rise in adopting the vegan way of life.

The rising demand for vegan food has increased demand for vegan restaurants. Choosing the right vegan restaurant can be daunting, considering several options. However, we have compiled a list of the top seven restaurants to streamline your decision-making process.

 

Things To Watch Out For In A Vegan Restaurant

Here are some factors that you must keep in mind before choosing an alternative.

 

 A Diverse Menu 

Try to look for restaurants that have creative and nutritious menu alternatives. It is recommended to look at the menu before visiting the place. Ensure the restaurant has a customized menu to accommodate various tastes and preferences. 

 

Fresh Ingredients

You can also research the quality of ingredients used in food preparation. It is recommended to look for restaurants that use fresh, locally sourced, and organic ingredients. It ensures that the dishes on the menu are both flavoursome and nutritious.

 

Reviews And Recommendations

Research the reviews of the restaurant on various online platforms before selecting the perfect restaurant for your next visit. This helps you filter your choice based on parameters like ambience, waiting time, etc. Moreover, it can prevent you from investing money in poor-quality meals at the cost of your health. 

 

Emphasis On Sustainability

Veganism is about eating healthy and contributing positively to the environment. Before visiting a vegan restaurant, check if they incorporate sustainable practices. This includes environment-friendly packaging, favoring local produce, minimizing food wastage, using responsible waste disposal practices, etc.

 

Vegan Certification

A vegan certification ensures that the vegan restaurant aligns with the principles of plant-based lifestyles. This certificate works as proof of assurance that strictly vegan people can visit the restaurant. Moreover, routine inspections ensure that these vegan restaurants comply with protocols. Failure to follow regulations can lead to the cancellation of these restaurants’ licenses.

 

Awareness Of Allergy Causing Ingredients

Vegan restaurants must ensure a safe dining experience for people with food allergies. There should be an extensive menu elaborating the ingredients and a well-trained staff to inform customers. The vegan restaurant should be flexible to take up special requests for ingredients. Emergency preparedness, effective communication, and regular menu audits can also ensure a positive customer experience.

Seven Best Vegan-Friendly Restaurants In Rishikesh

 

The Beatles Cafe The 60s cafe is vital in music history as the iconic band visited the place to learn transcendental meditation. The eatery is popular among Beatles fans who wish to know more about the band’s spiritual experience. The cafe has a unique European-style Alfresco diner and a unique and creative menu for vegans. The walls are decorated with photographs from their visit to the ashram, transporting you to the 60s.

 

Google Rating – 4.3

Zomato Rating – 4.2

Happy Cow Rating  – 4.5

 

How To Find The Place?

The Beatles Cafe is located near Hanuman Mandir (Lakshman Jhula). 

Google Maps Location  – Paidal Marg, Tapovan Sarai, Badrinath Road, Laxman Jhula, near Hanuman Mandir, near Divine Resort, Tapovan, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 

 

Things To Look Out For

• Breathtaking ambiance and a mesmerizing view of the sunset
•  Vegan And Gluten-Free Food Options – Burgers, Fried Rice, Hakka Noodles, Crepes, Malabar Coconut Curry With Tofu, Kadhai Tofu, Pancake, Soy Milk Beverages, Salads, Etc.
• Food is customizable as per preferences.
• Fast service
• Both indoor and outdoor seating are available.
• Takeaway option
• Cuisines – North Indian, Italian, Asian, Continental, Cafe
• Free wifi
• Budget Friendly
• Timings – Mon 11:00 am-9:30 pm

Wed-Sun 11:00 am-9:30 pm (Tuesdays closed)

 

Pure Soul Cafe And Organic Kitchen 

Pure Soul Cafe is a top-rated, vegan-friendly restaurant in Rishikesh. The place is serene, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It is a popular song for solo travelers to spend some time for self-care with a good view. You can write down your food preferences instead of ordering in person. Moreover, they use fresh and locally sourced ingredients to prepare every meal, which makes it an ideal choice for tourists across the globe. 

 

Google Rating – 4.2

Zomato Rating – 4.0

Happy Cow Rating – 4.0

 

How To Find The Place?

Located in Hotel Dewa Retreat (Opposite Badrinath Mandir, Tapovan, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

 

Things To Look Out For

• The restaurant serves exquisite cuisines based on macrobiotic recipes that originate from ancient dietary wisdom and tradition.
• They offer energizing meals that are scrumptious and boost gut health.
• The cafe adopts hygienic practices and thoroughly sanitizes the items before use.
• The raw materials, free from chemicals and additives, are produced locally. The place is a perfect destination for spending time with your loved ones or yourself. Explore the unique offerings to have an exhilarating experience.
• Timings – 7 am to 10:30 pm (Mon-Sun)
• Indoor and outdoor seating 
• Takeaway option available

 

Little Buddha Cafe

The cafe was established in 2017 and has been one of Rishikesh’s most loved vegan-friendly cafes. It is set up in a peaceful area walking distance from Lakshman Jhula. Despite the cafe’s small sitting area, the place is always full of tourists from all over the world. The tranquil trance music played by the eatery all day long livens the environment. Moreover, the cafe’s outdoor seating offers a mesmerizing view of the Ganges. 

 

Google Rating – 4.0

Zomato Rating – 3.5

Happy Cow Rating – 4.0

 

How To Find The Place?

The cafe is located near Lakshman Jhula and Dharamraj Temple. 

Google Maps – Laxman Jhula Rd, near Little Buddha Cafe, Laxman Jhula, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

 

Things To Look Out For

• You must try popular vegan dishes such as roasted pineapples, pancakes, lemon nana, falafel platter, and fresh juices. Other dishes are also customizable as per vegan preferences.
• Authentic vegan food at a budget-friendly price
• Great for visiting in groups or to meet new people
• The best time to visit is early morning or evening.
• Beautiful candle-lit ambiance
• Food portions are generous.
• Timings – 8 am- 11 pm Mon-Sun
• Rooftop seating
• Home Delivery is also available.

Enjoy the most scrumptious meals at the most amazing prices at the Little Buddha cafe.

 

Cafe Bistro Nirvana

 

If you are looking for good places to eat near the high banks legion in Rishikesh, your search ends at Cafe Bistro Nirvana. The place has a rustic ambiance with clay and mud-based furniture. Moreover, the place offers indoor and outdoor seating and is surrounded by a beautiful landscape. The eatery serves fresh and organic meals, which are value for money. The warm, cozy atmosphere with trance music makes it a perfect spot for couples and groups.

 

Google Rating – 4.3

Zomato Rating – 4.3

Happy Cow Rating – 4.5

 

How To Find The Place?

The cafe is located on the bypass road near Zostel 2.0 Rishikesh

Google Maps – Swami Omkarananda Saraswati Rd, Near Green Valley Cottage, Tapovan, Rishikesh, Jonk, Uttarakhand

 

Things To Look Out For

• Fresh and delicious food made with gluten-free options
• Offers a variety of Indian, Italian, Chinese, Israeli, Continental, and Mexican food
• Emphasis on hygienic practices
• Film screening at regular intervals
• Takeaway option
• Indoor seating
• Well-informed and trained staff
• Timings of the restaurant: 9:00 am to 10:30 pm

 

Tues-Sunday (Monday closed)

Give a tantalizing sensation to your taste buds by visiting Bistro Nirvana with your loved ones.

 

The Arches (Cafe And Restaurant)

 

The Arches is rated as one of the finest vegan restaurants in the yoga capital of India. The place was revamped by a Los Angeles-based architect in 2021 with stylish, modern interiors. They have an extensive menu for people with vegan food preferences. Moreover, they specialize in gluten-free, wheat-free, and exquisite vegetarian dishes. The meals served in this eatery are 80% fat-free and prepared in olive oil, which makes it an ideal choice for fitness enthusiasts.

 

Google Rating – 4.6

Zomato Rating – 3.9

Happy Cow Rating – 5

 

How To Find The Place?

The restaurant is near Lakshman Jhula, Rishikesh, inside Hotel Ishan – A riverside retreat by Salvus beside the River Ganges.

Google Maps – Lakshman Jhula Chowk, Tapovan, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

 

Things To Look Out For

• Exotic atmosphere and homely decor
• Supports local produce
• Promotes fair trade practices for organic products
• The exquisite menu is a combination of Indian, Italian, Asian and other cuisines
• Well-trained and experienced staff
• The meals can be curated as per your food preferences
• Cost-effective meals
• Try mock meat chili chicken, Caesar salad, lemon macaron, salads, fresh juices, and coffee.
• Timings – 8:00 am to 10:30 pm (Open on all days)

 

Tattv Cafe

Tattv Cafe is an ideal restaurant in Rishikesh for those looking for a whole-hearted meal. The cafe was founded in 1978 and is known for its top-quality cuisine. Tattv aims to satisfy individuals’ food cravings. Those planning to celebrate special occasions can book this place to make the most of it. The place can accommodate several individuals. Commuting to this location will be easy if you reside nearby. Besides serving delicious cuisines, the place serves the best coffee shop.

 

Google Rating – 4.4

Zomato Rating – 4

Happy Cow Rating – 4.5

 

How To Find The Place?

The eatery is located on the way to Shiva Internet Cafe while moving from the auto-rickshaw stand in Haridwar, Rishikesh (Above Pandit General Health Store)

Google Maps – Badrinath Road, Tapovan, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

 

Things To Look Out For?

• Variety of cuisines ranging from Indian, Italian, European, Israeli etc
• Budget-friendly dishes
• Good quality food ingredients
• Try the vegan pasta bowls, Soya chai, Lasagna, Angli Spinach, Tattv special pizza, Avocado sandwiches, desserts, and bakery items.
• Takeaway option available
• Gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian menu
• Timings 8 am to 10 pm (Mon-Sun)
• Wifi available

 

 

Secret Garden Cafe

 

The cute little cafe is one of the most fascinating places in Rishikesh. Though the name is Secret Garden Cafe, there is nothing secretive about the place. Its beautiful ambiance makes it one of the best places in Tapovan. The place has a beautiful garden where you can sit and have a great time with friends. It has an air-conditioned indoor space with a wifi facility. Here, you will find numerous vegan dishes you can choose per your preferences.

 

Google Rating – 4.6

Trip Advisor Rating – 5

Happy Cow Rating – 5

 

How To Find The Place?

The cafe is located in Gulab Nagar at Tapovan Road, 

Google Maps – Tapovan, Rishikesh, Uttrakhand

 

Things To Look Out For

• Try a Banana-Papaya smoothie bowl, sugar-free pancakes, vegan coffee, Masala chai, smoothies, and many more.
• Outdoor seating
• 24×7 Wifi provided with unlimited access
• Live music in the evening for making memories
• Multiple cuisines ranging from International, Mediterranean, Asian, Israeli
• Friendly and experienced staff
• Vegan bakery items- you can choose according to your taste.
• Timings for visit- 9:00 am to 7:30 pm (Mon closed)

 

Wrapping Up

Restaurant selection can make or break your experience. This is why we have compiled a complete list of the best restaurants in Rishikesh worth trying. Compare their unique offerings, read their reviews and reputation, and check their ambiance before visiting. These places offer numerous options without making you compromise on quality and budget. The cuisines are selected according to individual preferences and tastes. Explore these remarkable options and make your next visit worthwhile by trying mouth-watering dishes here.

 

Balance Between Mind And Body

Achieving a balance between the mind and the body is a fundamental aspect of ancient yoga. Performing the physical poses and a healthy Satvic diet can help you build a strong connection with yourself. Sattvic foods are light and packed with nutrients, making you energetic and active throughout the day. Thus, a healthy mind and body will add vitality to your life and lead you on a journey of spiritual growth.

 

Reduces Risk Of Chronic Diseases

Sattvic foods are usually low in fat and high in fiber content. Hence, consuming such food on a day-to-day basis can help you abstain from life-threatening diseases like Diabetes, Cancer, High BP, and Cardiovascular illnesses. Adopting a Sattvic diet means refraining from processed, canned, and fried foods, which increase cholesterol levels. The high fiber quantity in Sattvic foods is excellent for your gut health and prevents stomach ulcers.

 

Eliminates Toxins From The Body

Your body may contain toxins if you are experiencing issues such as frequent bloating, acne, or skin rashes. A Sattvic diet can help you detox your body and improve your health in the long run. You can start your day with a good health ritual, like adding a pinch of turmeric and honey to lukewarm water. Good physical health leads to significant emotional fitness. Thus, Sattvic food cleanses your body and leads to emotional well-being.

 

Balanced Energy Levels

Unlike foods that increase your energy levels for a short duration, the Sattvic diet promotes balanced energy levels throughout the day. It is crucial for yoga practitioners who need constant energy to perform physical poses and meditation. Within a month of adopting the Sattvic way of life, you will notice a significant change in your health. You will wake up fresh and ace the day with a positive mindset.

 

Enhanced Focus and Concentration

The Sattvic way of life aligns with the fundamentals of clarity and purity. It increases the focus and concentration power of individuals. Eating spicy and processed foods makes your mind and body sluggish. The Sattvic diet includes gut-friendly foods that promote a harmonious state of mind. Additionally, the flavors are balanced to give a pleasant experience to the senses and provide nutrition. Thus, Sattvic foods increase mental agility and eliminate mental clutter. 

Spiritual Connection

Sattvic foods act as a potent catalyst of spiritual connection for yoga practitioners. The diet is pure and balanced and promotes inner well-being. Thus, it enhances the spiritual relationship with the higher power. Moreover, the food is light, which helps practitioners meditate for long hours without hassle. Overall, the Sattvic diet acts as a friendly guide on your journey towards holistic wellness.

 

Promotes Mindful Eating Habits

The Sattvic way of life emphasizes a fresh and vegetarian diet, which is power-packed with nutrition. The practice of preparing food using fresh ingredients makes one appreciate natural foods. In the Sattvic diet, yoga practitioners are encouraged to savor each meal with gratitude and consciousness. These food items are high in fiber, ensuring the digestive system is not overwhelmed. Thus, it lays the foundation of a cordial relationship between the mind and the body.

Wrapping Up

Sattvic food is a vital companion in the life-transforming journey of yoga. It profoundly affects a practitioner’s physical health, mental well-being, and spiritual connection. By adopting the Sattvic nutrition, practitioners experience an enriched yoga experience and pave the way towards healthier living. The body becomes a temple and the mind a sanctuary for positive thoughts, which leads a person to a journey of contentment and enlightenment.