Bangkok’s culinary landscape has evolved dramatically over the past decade, embracing global food trends while maintaining its rich Thai heritage. Among these trends, ramen has carved out a special place in the hearts of Bangkok foodies. But what about those following plant-based diets? Fortunately, the city’s innovative food scene has responded with an impressive array of vegetarian and vegan ramen options that don’t compromise on flavor or authenticity.
Whether you’re a committed vegetarian, an occasional plant-based diner, or simply curious about meat-free alternatives to this Japanese classic, Bangkok offers surprisingly diverse options. From traditional Japanese establishments adapting their recipes to dedicated vegan eateries putting their own spin on ramen, the city has something for everyone seeking that perfect bowl of vegetarian noodle soup.
Japanese-Owned Ramen Shops with Vegetarian Options
Some of the most authentic ramen experiences come from Japanese-owned establishments that have recognized the growing demand for plant-based alternatives. These shops bring decades of ramen-making expertise while thoughtfully adapting traditional recipes for vegetarian diets.
Bankara Ramen
With multiple branches across Bangkok, Bankara has established itself as a go-to spot for ramen enthusiasts. Their vegetarian option features a rich, flavorful broth made from mushrooms and kombu (seaweed), creating a deep umami base that rivals their meat-based offerings. The noodles maintain that perfect chewy texture, and toppings include marinated bamboo shoots, wood ear mushrooms, and perfectly cooked seasonal vegetables.
What sets Bankara apart is their attention to detail—the broth simmers for hours, developing complex flavors that many vegetarian ramens lack. You’ll find Bankara branches in Silom, Thonglor, and Central World, making it accessible from most parts of central Bangkok. Their vegetarian set also includes a small side dish and pickles, completing the authentic Japanese dining experience.
Ippudo
This global ramen chain brings its signature quality to Bangkok with locations in Central Embassy and EmQuartier. Ippudo’s vegetarian ramen doesn’t feel like an afterthought—it’s a carefully crafted dish featuring a seaweed and mushroom broth that’s both light and satisfying. Their noodles, made fresh daily, have that distinctive springy texture that ramen aficionados crave.
The vegetarian option comes topped with marinated tofu, bean sprouts, spring onions, and corn, creating a colorful bowl that’s as appealing to the eye as it is to the palate. For an extra kick, ask for their special chili oil on the side—it adds a pleasant heat that complements the umami-rich broth perfectly.
What many don’t know is that Ippudo’s vegetarian recipe was developed over two years of intensive testing by their head chef, who studied traditional Buddhist temple cooking techniques to perfect the broth’s depth. The restaurant also offers seasonal limited-edition vegetarian bowls that showcase ingredients like kabocha squash in autumn or fresh bamboo shoots in spring, reflecting the Japanese appreciation for seasonal eating. Their commitment extends to sourcing organic vegetables from local Thai farms whenever possible, creating a fusion of Japanese technique with local produce.
Mensho Tokyo
A relative newcomer to Bangkok’s ramen scene, Mensho Tokyo in Siam Paragon offers one of the most innovative vegetarian ramens in the city. Their plant-based option features a unique soy milk-based broth that’s creamy, rich, and surprisingly complex. The broth is infused with roasted garlic oil and truffle essence, creating an aromatic experience that’s truly memorable.
Topped with grilled eggplant, enoki mushrooms, and house-made vegetarian chashu made from compressed tofu skin, this ramen demonstrates how vegetarian options can push culinary boundaries rather than simply substituting ingredients. The attention to texture and flavor balance makes this a must-try even for dedicated meat eaters.
Mensho Tokyo’s vegetarian credentials go beyond just their signature ramen. The restaurant employs a dedicated vegetarian station in their kitchen to prevent cross-contamination, and they offer an impressive array of plant-based sides that complement their main dishes perfectly. Their vegetarian gyoza, made with a mix of five different mushrooms and wrapped in paper-thin wrappers, have developed a cult following among Bangkok foodies. The restaurant also hosts monthly ramen workshops where guests can learn to make vegetarian broths and noodles from scratch, sharing the secrets behind their innovative techniques while educating customers about the rich tradition of Japanese plant-based cooking that dates back centuries.
Thai-Owned Ramen Shops with Creative Vegetarian Bowls
Bangkok’s local entrepreneurs have embraced ramen culture with enthusiasm, often adding unique Thai twists to this Japanese classic. These Thai-owned establishments frequently offer more experimental vegetarian options that blend culinary traditions.
Nomyen Ramen
Located in the trendy Ari neighborhood, Nomyen Ramen has built a reputation for its fusion approach to ramen. Their vegetarian option stands out with a broth that incorporates traditional Thai herbs like lemongrass and galangal alongside Japanese kombu and shiitake mushrooms. The result is a fragrant, complex soup base that’s unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere.
The noodles are made in-house daily, and toppings include crispy fried tofu, pickled mustard greens, and a soft-boiled egg for vegetarians who include eggs in their diet (vegans can easily request this be omitted). What makes Nomyen special is how seamlessly they blend Thai and Japanese flavors without compromising either culinary tradition.
Ramen Tei
This cozy spot in Sukhumvit Soi 23 offers a vegetarian tantanmen that deserves special mention. Using a sesame and soy milk base enriched with house-made chili oil, this spicy, creamy ramen delivers a satisfying punch of flavor. The broth is topped with ground impossible meat (plant-based), giving it that characteristic tantanmen texture without any animal products.
Additional toppings include bok choy, bean sprouts, and pickled radish, creating a balance of textures and flavors. What’s particularly impressive about Ramen Tei is how they’ve managed to recreate the rich, complex flavors of tantanmen while keeping it completely plant-based. Even the noodles are made without egg, making this option suitable for vegans.
Dedicated Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurants
For those seeking establishments where the entire menu is plant-based, Bangkok offers several outstanding options where vegetarian ramen takes center stage rather than being a menu afterthought.
Veganerie
With multiple branches across Bangkok, Veganerie has established itself as a pioneer in the city’s vegan dining scene. Their ramen offering features a rich, mushroom-based broth that’s been simmered with kombu and vegetables for hours to develop depth of flavor. The noodles are egg-free and have an excellent bite to them.
What makes Veganerie’s ramen special is their house-made vegan chashu—thinly sliced seitan marinated in a sweet-savory sauce and gently torched before serving. Additional toppings include corn, bamboo shoots, and wood ear mushrooms. Their Mercury Ville and EmQuartier branches are particularly convenient for visitors staying in central Bangkok.
May Veggie Home
Located near Asok BTS, May Veggie Home offers a Thai interpretation of vegetarian ramen that’s worth seeking out. Their tom yum ramen fuses the spicy, sour profile of Thailand’s famous soup with Japanese ramen techniques. The broth balances lemongrass, lime, and chili with mushroom umami, creating a unique flavor profile that works surprisingly well.
The noodles are topped with tofu, mushrooms, and seasonal vegetables, with the option to add vegan “shrimp” made from konjac for an additional fee. While purists might debate whether this fusion dish qualifies as authentic ramen, there’s no denying its delicious flavor and thoughtful execution.
Hidden Gems for Vegetarian Ramen
Beyond the well-known establishments, Bangkok harbors some lesser-known spots that offer exceptional vegetarian ramen experiences for those willing to venture off the beaten path.
Kyushu Jangara
Tucked away in the basement of Isetan department store at CentralWorld, Kyushu Jangara is easy to miss but rewards those who find it. Their vegetarian ramen features a light but flavorful broth made from konbu and shiitake mushrooms, with a hint of yuzu citrus that brightens the entire dish. The thin, straight noodles have excellent texture and are served with an array of fresh vegetables.
What makes this spot special is the customization options—diners can adjust the firmness of noodles, richness of broth, and spice level to their preference. The vegetarian set also includes a small rice bowl with pickled vegetables, making it a satisfying complete meal.
Menya Itto
This small ramen shop in Thonglor flies somewhat under the radar despite serving one of the most interesting vegetarian ramens in Bangkok. Their plant-based option features a unique broth made from roasted soy milk, giving it a nutty, complex flavor that’s both rich and light simultaneously. The medium-thick noodles have excellent chew and are made fresh daily.
Toppings include marinated bamboo shoots, wood ear mushrooms, and a special vegetable “chashu” made from compressed layers of king oyster mushroom that mimics the texture of traditional pork chashu remarkably well. The attention to detail extends to the perfectly soft-boiled egg (optional for vegetarians who eat eggs), marinated in a sweet-savory sauce that complements the broth beautifully.
Tips for Enjoying Vegetarian Ramen in Bangkok
Language Considerations
When ordering vegetarian ramen in Bangkok, it’s helpful to know a few key phrases. “Mang sa wee rat” means vegetarian in Thai, but this typically includes eggs and dairy. For strictly plant-based options, “jay” (เจ) is the term for vegan food that excludes all animal products as well as strong-smelling vegetables like garlic and onions. Many restaurants understand “vegan” in English, especially in tourist areas and upscale establishments.
It’s also worth noting that fish sauce is a common ingredient in Thai cooking, sometimes even in dishes labeled vegetarian. When in doubt, specifically ask about fish sauce (“nam pla”) to ensure your meal aligns with your dietary preferences.
Best Times to Visit
Ramen shops in Bangkok can get extremely busy during peak lunch (12-1 PM) and dinner (7-8 PM) hours. For a more relaxed experience, try visiting during off-peak times—late afternoon (3-5 PM) is often ideal, as you’ll avoid crowds while still finding most kitchens open and ready to serve their full menu.
Weekends are typically busier than weekdays, with Saturday evening being particularly crowded at popular spots. Some of the Japanese-owned establishments don’t take reservations and operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so be prepared for potential waits during busy periods.
Bangkok’s vegetarian ramen scene continues to evolve, with new options appearing regularly as plant-based dining becomes increasingly mainstream. Whether you’re seeking traditional Japanese flavors or innovative fusion creations, the city offers a remarkable range of options that prove vegetarian ramen can be just as satisfying and complex as its meat-based counterparts. From rich, creamy broths to light, aromatic ones, there’s a vegetarian ramen in Bangkok waiting to become your new favorite comfort food.
