Varanasi in Northern India has some great vegan friendly food options for you.
You can enjoy dishes like aloo gobbi, a traditional Indian dish that includes potatoes, cauliflower and spices, or the delicious South Indian Dosa which is a thin savoury crepe with chutney and sambar.
There are also plant based friendly cafes and restaurants in Varanasi that offer dishes like pizza, burgers, chocolate cake, stir fry, pancakes and heaps more.
While you’re in Varanasi, don’t forget to walk along the River Ganges, see a morning or evening Aarti, visit Sarnath where the Buddha taught his first sermon, and explore Ramnagar Fort.
I visited Varanasi in September 2024, so rest assured these places are up to date.
If you’re also travelling or backpacking around Asia, don’t forget to check out my other Vegan Food Guides for places like Kathmandu, Ho Chi Minh City and Brunei.
MARK’S CAFE
I had most of my meals at Marks Cafe because of the wonderful view from the balcony! And how kind everyone was. The food was delicious and very generous.
BROWN BREAD BAKERY
Such a cute little place in a small alleyway. I came here a couple of times for breakfast and had the vegan crepe with jam. Their vegan options are clearly marked. While I was in there, a random cow decided to try to come in the front door and a person gave the cow a piece of bread and then the cow decided to leave haha. Best place 🙂
AADHA AADHA CAFE
Down an unassuming path you’ll find this lovely place after you climb a few sets of stairs. Their rooftop cafe overlooks the river and the staff are very friendly. I had the vegan pancakes with maple syrup and they were so tasty.
AUM CAFE
Near Assi Ghat, their rooftop cafe overlooks a lovely alleyway so you can watch the comings and going of everyone. Their vegan chocolate cake is amazing! Highly recommend it.
Other Vegan Friendly Cafes and Restaurants
ASHISH CAFE
SPARROW CAFE
MONA LISA CAFE
MAP
