Considering the variety and quality of regular ramen available in Tokyo, there isn’t much for vegans or vegetarians. Having said that, if you’re a foodie and don’t want to miss out on a comforting bowl of noodles jam-packed with flavor, read on! These options are entirely plant-based and highly Muslim-friendly, though guests should always confirm specific ingredients (like shoyu used) if Halal certification is required.
T’s Tantan (T’s たんたん)
When you ask any vegan in Japan for their recommendation, T’s Tantan is a common one! With two locations, Tokyo Station and Ueno Station, it is easily accessible and is in two popular tourist areas.
What we love about T’s Tantan:
- You get a choice of various flavors: from sesame to shoyu to veggie tonkotsu (a creamy, non-pork vegetable base).
- Reasonably priced: Main bowls are now around ¥980–¥1,200.
The black sesame tantan is a popular choice here. Topping for the ramen are soy meat chunks, bean sprouts, and greens among other options. You can also get sides of vegan karaage (vegan version of fried chicken), gyoza (dumplings), and a veggie curry bowl.
The vegan karaage comes with a sweet chili sauce and is quite delectable, ideal for when you have a craving for something fried.
For those who want a hit of spice, the special Tantan spice sauce is a great flavor addition. You can also buy sandwiches for takeaway as well as their instant cup noodles, which are also vegan.
Both of these locations are inside the train station ticket gates (Gransta Tokyo and Ecute Ueno), so it’s ideal to visit either on your way out or in the station. Since it’s so popular among vegetarians and vegans in Tokyo, avoid visiting during peak lunch or dinner hours to avoid queuing.
Address for Ueno: Inside Ueno Station, Ecute Shopping Center, Ueno, Tokyo
Address for Tokyo: Keiyo Street 1F, Gransta Tokyo, 1-9-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Afuri (阿夫利)
The prettiest vegan ramen in town is at Afuri. With many branches scattered around Tokyo, you can find a branch close to where you are, but note that the “Colorful Vegetable Vegan Ramen” costs around ¥1,990 a bowl!
Called Colorful Vegetable Vegan Ramen, the vegetable soup and noodles are covered with squash, purple turnips, green leafy vegetables, cauliflower, among other seasonal vegetables. The flavor of the broth is subtle and refreshing; however, the large serving is usually satisfying for most eaters.
This is Afuri’s signature vegan option, making it an ideal choice for groups where some friends are not vegan.
Address for Ebisu: 1F, 1-1-7 Ebisu, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Soranoiro (ソラノイロ)
Soranoiro is located in the famous Tokyo Ramen Street of Tokyo Station Ichibangai. Unlike the original menu, vegans now often have a choice between two main options, plus sides. The noodles are available with red paprika kneaded into the dough, and the popular brown rice noodles are available for a small upcharge.
The soup is made mainly using carrots and served with five or six seasonal vegetables. The cost per main bowl is now about ¥1,300.
Located outside the ticket gates, this is a popular spot among foreigners who have transfer or plan to take a bullet train at Tokyo Station.
Address: Tokyo Ramen Street, Tokyo Station Ichibangai, 1-9-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Delicious and Plant-Based
Even if you’re not vegan, you can try these delicious and healthy versions of ramen. The accessibility and quality of plant-based ramen in Tokyo has greatly improved, with T’s Tantan being the most convenient and Afuri offering a high-end, beautiful presentation.
