Brisbane is a great place for plant-based food. Many people in the city enjoy fresh meals made with local produce. Vegan dining has grown fast, and now there are many fun spots to try.
Some places are modern, and some are casual, but all offer tasty meals with clear flavours. You can find burgers, bowls, noodles, and sweet treats. This guide shares the best vegan restaurant options loved by locals in Brisbane. It will help you choose where to eat next.
Top 10 Vegan Restaurants in Brisbane
El Planta
El Planta started as a pop-up serving tacos and quickly became one of Brisbane’s favourite vegan spots. Located in South Brisbane on Hope Street, this Mexican restaurant opened its permanent home in June 2020.
The team makes everything fresh in the kitchen using local ingredients. The tacos are very famous, but you can also enjoy chips with guacamole and tasty grilled corn.
Many visitors say the margaritas taste great too. The place feels warm, colourful, and friendly. Everyone can enjoy the bold flavours here. You can also visit their website, elplanta.com.
Vega Cafe
Vega Cafe in Spring Hill offers vegan-friendly dishes with unique creations like Bagel Truffle and Massaman curry. The cafe brings bold, comforting flavours of Thai food made 100% vegan. You can enjoy colourful meals any time of day.
The murtabah features fragrant curry chicken filling in a crispy roti pocket, and the vegan omelette has a creamy, egg-like texture. The Shibuya toast is a buttered tower with toppings like ice cream and fruit.
They also open for dinner a few nights a week with rich yellow curry. The staff makes everyone feel welcome, and the bright, fresh presentation makes every meal feel special. The quality stays consistently high with careful attention to every detail.
U Tong Thai
U Tong Thai is a hidden gem in Clayfield that specialises in vegan Thai food with well-portioned and delicious dishes. The menu features freshly prepared vegetable dishes and plant-based meat substitute stir-fries and curries, including ‘chicken’ and ‘duck’.
Stand-out dishes include whole coconut curry, pad see ew, pineapple fried rice and coconut rice. They also offer gluten-free, MSG-free, garlic-free and onion-free options. Daily lunch specials cost $10 for dine-in and takeaway.
The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. Free parking is available at the front, making it easy to visit. The authentic flavours transport you straight to Thailand with every bite. You can also visit their website, utongthairestaurant.com.au.
Vegeme
Vegeme is an Asian fusion restaurant in the West End where most dishes are vegan and clearly marked on the menu. Stand-out dishes include bean sauce on rice or noodles, sweet and sour pom pom mushroom rice and suji (Taiwanese fried chicken).
The restaurant offers pan-fried dumplings, bibimbap, and udon noodles with vegetables. Food portions are generous, giving you great value for your money. Many dishes cost around $11.60 to $14.50 and provide enough for multiple meals.
The atmosphere stays casual and comfortable. Staff members are friendly and helpful when you have questions. This spot perfectly represents affordable vegan restaurants in Brisbane with its reasonable prices and filling meals.
Read Also: Best Vegan Restaurants in Sydney, Australia
Neon Ramen
Neon Ramen is an anime-themed ramen bar in Everton Park serving 100% vegan meals with high-quality local ingredients. The menu features highly customizable ramen and stir-fry where you pick the sauce, noodle type and toppings. The tan tan ramen and garlic mushroom sauce stir-fry are must-tries.
Ramen comes served in cat-shaped bowls, complete with pink, pointy ears. The desserts use soy-based ice cream that’s super creamy, and the purple yam doughnuts are exceptional. Portion sizes are huge, especially for the stir-fry.
The bright neon lights and vibrant atmosphere create a truly unique dining experience. Cherry blossoms cover the ceiling while anime artwork decorates the walls. This place is among the best vegan restaurants in Australia for creative presentation. Visit their website, neonramen.com.au,
Vege Rama
Vege Rama in the Riverside Centre offers a variety of plant-based dishes, including Thai Curry and Rajma. Located conveniently in the heart of Brisbane City, Vege Rama is 100% vegan and perfect for a quick lunch.
The extensive menu includes a massive range of traditional Indian food alongside fan-favourite Western dishes at super affordable prices. Popular items include Cajun Fries, Cake Slices, and the Euro Burger. The Thai Pumpkin Curry is one of the best curries available, and the lasagne is amazing.
The food comes out fast, making it ideal for busy office workers. Desserts like Ferrero cups and Oreo cakes shouldn’t be missed. The restaurant changes up the menu throughout the week to keep things interesting.
You Came Again
You Came Again is Brisbane’s first vegan tapas bar that has been satisfying vegans since 2019 with delectable plant-based tapas and cocktails. The signature cheese platter features smoked cheddar, coconut labneh, tapenade preserves and Turkish bread.
Other favourites include pesto-stuffed mushrooms, patatas bravas, miso eggplant with coleslaw, and lemon popcorn cauliflower bites. They serve desserts like cheesecake, brownies and creme brulee along with cocktails and wines.
The outdoor area includes a back deck with lawn seating where you can picnic under trees. This stylish West End spot perfectly balances vegetables with creativity. The community vibe makes everyone feel welcome and comfortable.
Yavanna
Yavanna is an all-vegan restaurant in Paddington with a relaxing atmosphere and helpful, friendly staff. The menu features comfort food, including chargrilled steak on creamy mashed potato with garlic greens.
Other dishes include bourbon BBQ ribs, buffalo-style cauliflower wings with ranch dressing, and Chipotle Nachos. The One Burger features a flame-grilled beef patty, bacon, cheese sauce and chipotle mayonnaise.
Breakfast is served at weekends from 8-11 am with seasonal menu items. The restaurant uses timber booths and offers distant Mt. Coot-tha views. All dishes use plant-based meat substitutes that taste remarkably close to traditional versions. Serving sizes are generous and filling.
The Green Edge
The Green Edge in Windsor is Brisbane’s largest vegan grocery store and cafe, known as one of the originals in the vegan scene. The store stocks Fair Trade, organically grown, and locally produced ingredients.
The cafe menu includes tempeh burgers, tofu scramble, blueberry pancakes and pecan pie. The shop section offers vegan groceries, makeup, house supplies, shoes and recipe books. Most food is prepared in-house, with tempting sweet treats at the front counter.
You’ll find Sacred Grounds organic coffee made with soy milk and dairy-free smoothies. The cafe provides classic comfort meals like nachos, curries, pasta and burgers. You can also visit their website, www.greenedgeonline.com.au.
Ma Pa Me
Ma Pa Me is a Pan Asian restaurant in South Bank with an Indonesian, Thai, Japanese and Chinese fusion menu inspired by the chef’s grandma’s cooking. Despite the casual street decor and laid-back ambience, the food is top-notch.
The vegan menu features tempura, curry, pad Thai, nasi goreng and spring rolls. Dishes like jackfruit rendang and pumpkin curry are standouts, and the crispy tempura eggplant receives high praise.
Ordering happens via personal tablets at the table, making the process quick and easy. Generous banquets work perfectly for groups of four or more. The location on Stanley Street makes it easy to reach after visiting South Bank attractions.
Read Also: 10 Vegan Restaurants in Perth You Must Try
Tips for First-Time Vegan Diners
- Start with familiar dishes – Try vegan versions of foods you already love, like burgers, tacos or pasta. This helps you ease into plant-based eating without feeling overwhelmed by new flavours.
- Ask questions – Don’t hesitate to talk with staff about ingredients or preparation methods. Most vegan restaurant teams love sharing their knowledge and helping newcomers feel comfortable.
- Check for daily specials – Many restaurants offer lunch deals or rotating menus. These options often provide better value and showcase the chef’s creativity.
- Book ahead – Popular vegan spots fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Making a reservation ensures you won’t miss out on your chosen restaurant.
- Try desserts – Vegan sweets have improved dramatically in recent years. Save room for treats like ice cream, brownies or cakes that rival traditional versions.
- Consider portion sizes – Many vegan meals are quite filling despite being plant-based. Check with servers about serving sizes before ordering multiple dishes.
- Visit during off-peak hours – Weekday lunches or early dinners often mean shorter waits and more attention from staff. This creates a more relaxed dining experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What cuisines are common at vegan restaurants?
You’ll find Asian fusion, Mexican, Mediterranean and traditional Australian styles. Each cuisine brings unique flavours. The variety means you’ll never get bored exploring options.
What makes Brisbane good for vegan dining?
Brisbane has many dedicated vegan restaurants with creative menus. The city’s chefs utilise fresh, local ingredients to craft innovative, plant-based dishes that appeal to everyone.
Are vegan restaurants more expensive than regular ones?
Not necessarily. Many spots offer affordable prices with generous portions. You can find budget-friendly options throughout Brisbane that provide excellent value for money.
Do I need reservations at popular vegan spots?
Booking ahead is recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Many popular restaurants fill up quickly. Calling ahead saves disappointment and waiting time.
Are there vegan options for people with allergies?
Yes, many restaurants offer gluten-free, nut-free and other allergy-friendly choices. Staff members are usually knowledgeable about ingredients. Always inform them about specific dietary requirements.
Conclusion
Brisbane has many great vegan places that locals love. Each restaurant has its own style, from warm comfort food to bright, fresh bowls. You can enjoy quick lunches, relaxed dinners, or fun nights out with friends. The food is tasty, filling, and full of flavour.
These spots also make vegan eating easy for new diners. Try a few places and find your favourite. Brisbane shows that plant based food can be simple, joyful, and delicious.
